Gang Leader Extradited
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Published 11-19-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Shawn Fry is a father of seven children, six of which are students in the Thomaston-Upson School System. Fry, along with several additional stakeholders, attended last week’s monthly meeting of the T-U Board of Education to discuss issues within the local system.
“I am standing here as a concerned parent who benefitted from the hard work and diligence of numerous teachers and faculty,” said Fry. “It is my desire that what I share with you is used to improve the educational operation and experience for both the students and parents.”
His first concern was that his daughter recently was quarantined, although she was not in the vicinity of a “sick student” for the required 15 minutes, according to Fry. He said that he experienced difficulty reaching administration and board members. “I don’t call the school… But if there is a concerned parent calling, there needs to be feedback immediately.”
Fry said he eventually received a call back, but problems have not been fixed.
“The school board needs to establish a set of checks and balances different from the current process,” he commented. “I would suggest that the teachers and faculty complete a mandatory evaluation form of the administrators to observe a non-biased view of what is going on in the school.”
Secondly, Fry introduced concerns of “a conflict with the school’s responsibility to treat students fairly and without bias. This bias should not occur because of a student’s athletic or financial ability,” he said. “This is from [my] kids and I have talked to Dr. Price about this. Football students were instructed by UL staff to get a doctor’s note in order to go to online schooling… I called pretty much every one of you when I found out. I’m one of the guys that called you about the face masks and requested to please [extend the deadline for online schooling].
“My kids told me ‘all the football players are in online schooling.’ They’ve all gone to a doctor and they’re all out,” Fry continued. “My student was not given that direction from a staff member at all… I know you’re saying, ‘HIPAA this, HIPAA that,’ but this needs to be addressed.
“Along with that, I find out that a football player was actually placed in a hallway so that they wouldn’t be quarantined,” he added. “My student is being asked to keep his mask on in the room, while a football player is being sat in the hallway to ensure that the student will not miss practice or a game. That is a bias.”
“The next part is that football players are allowed to travel on busses, gather in locker rooms, and play without the adherence of mask regulations. All of this is being done while the marching band, the guard, are sitting in the stands behind me, all six feet apart… We pay for guard, just so you know… $400 one year for them to participate.
“The marching band are told that they cannot participate in any away games due to non-compliance of safety measures at other schools,” Fry stated. “Now, how come that is allowed for football players, and my kids can’t go on a bus, sit in the stands, and come down on the field and perform what they have practiced, what they have looked forward to, and what they have worked for… No one seems to explain this… It doesn’t make sense to me, my children, or other parents.
“I would ask, if the following guidelines are so important, why are you allowing the football players to be exposed with no regard to their health and safety?” he asked. “Why is the school board allowing exceptions to their safety protocol? It appears to be for financial reasons - ticket sales.”
Fry’s next concern was “in regards to the school board’s oversight in adherence to federal and state mandates regarding freedom of religion. One passage from [American Civil Liberties Union]’s webpage says ‘forcing individuals to financially support religion was a direct assault of the fundamental human right of conscious’.”
Fry commented that spectators at football games have no choice but to support a religious organization, especially since outside food and drink is not allowed at Matthews Field.
“This religious organization takes an oath that in it says, ‘to all gods,’ and it is in direct conflict with the religion that I abide by… This organization is out of the Free Masons. They operate the concession stand at the stadium and no bidding is allowed for competition from local venders. The Upson Lee School System needs to address this immediately to prevent a lawsuit and the financial expenses related to such.”
Fry’s final concern was related to “divisiveness,” according to Fry. He claims that he was given of a copy of an article entitled “White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack,” which was allegedly previously distributed to board members.
“I was told this was handed out to the board… Was it handed out? I assume so,” commented Fry. “Thank you for your time. I don’t like coming up here, but things have to be addressed at some point.”
The board’s policy is to refrain from comment on public participation during board meetings.
The Upson Beacon contacted board members for comments.
Board Member Angeline McGill (District 1), who originally distributed the article to board members during an executive session, said she finds the article relevant. “Based on experiences I’ve had and based on the climate that we’re going through right now, there are a lot of things going on that we need to have a discussion about,” she said.
“I taught diversity training at UCSD Medical Center. We focused on those types of issues because of the way some patients were being treated based on their race and their ability to pay,” McGill commented. “That’s why I passed it out. There has to be a discussion about it. It wasn’t against anybody.
“I was born here but wasn’t raised here. A Lot of stuff happened in the world and I believe we’re going backwards instead of forwards. It’s relevant to the entire world,” McGill continued. “I’ve experienced some of the things going on now. I’ve lived in New Jersey, California, Virginia. It’s not just relevant to here, but it’s relevant in the world.”
Chairperson Jacqueline Hollis (District 2) said this in response to questions from the Beacon: “Angie McGill distributed the handout during an executive session. We did not have a discussion about it then; as a chair, the only thing we, as a board, will discuss in an executive session is policy, personnel, and budget items that are allowed during those sessions.”
Board member Sheila Hall (District 3) said, “I am upset about receiving the handout and, like others on the board, am offended. During the next meeting I gave it back to Angie and told her that it did not apply to me.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Shawn Fry is a father of seven children, six of which are students in the Thomaston-Upson School System. Fry, along with several additional stakeholders, attended last week’s monthly meeting of the T-U Board of Education to discuss issues within the local system.
“I am standing here as a concerned parent who benefitted from the hard work and diligence of numerous teachers and faculty,” said Fry. “It is my desire that what I share with you is used to improve the educational operation and experience for both the students and parents.”
His first concern was that his daughter recently was quarantined, although she was not in the vicinity of a “sick student” for the required 15 minutes, according to Fry. He said that he experienced difficulty reaching administration and board members. “I don’t call the school… But if there is a concerned parent calling, there needs to be feedback immediately.”
Fry said he eventually received a call back, but problems have not been fixed.
“The school board needs to establish a set of checks and balances different from the current process,” he commented. “I would suggest that the teachers and faculty complete a mandatory evaluation form of the administrators to observe a non-biased view of what is going on in the school.”
Secondly, Fry introduced concerns of “a conflict with the school’s responsibility to treat students fairly and without bias. This bias should not occur because of a student’s athletic or financial ability,” he said. “This is from [my] kids and I have talked to Dr. Price about this. Football students were instructed by UL staff to get a doctor’s note in order to go to online schooling… I called pretty much every one of you when I found out. I’m one of the guys that called you about the face masks and requested to please [extend the deadline for online schooling].
“My kids told me ‘all the football players are in online schooling.’ They’ve all gone to a doctor and they’re all out,” Fry continued. “My student was not given that direction from a staff member at all… I know you’re saying, ‘HIPAA this, HIPAA that,’ but this needs to be addressed.
“Along with that, I find out that a football player was actually placed in a hallway so that they wouldn’t be quarantined,” he added. “My student is being asked to keep his mask on in the room, while a football player is being sat in the hallway to ensure that the student will not miss practice or a game. That is a bias.”
“The next part is that football players are allowed to travel on busses, gather in locker rooms, and play without the adherence of mask regulations. All of this is being done while the marching band, the guard, are sitting in the stands behind me, all six feet apart… We pay for guard, just so you know… $400 one year for them to participate.
“The marching band are told that they cannot participate in any away games due to non-compliance of safety measures at other schools,” Fry stated. “Now, how come that is allowed for football players, and my kids can’t go on a bus, sit in the stands, and come down on the field and perform what they have practiced, what they have looked forward to, and what they have worked for… No one seems to explain this… It doesn’t make sense to me, my children, or other parents.
“I would ask, if the following guidelines are so important, why are you allowing the football players to be exposed with no regard to their health and safety?” he asked. “Why is the school board allowing exceptions to their safety protocol? It appears to be for financial reasons - ticket sales.”
Fry’s next concern was “in regards to the school board’s oversight in adherence to federal and state mandates regarding freedom of religion. One passage from [American Civil Liberties Union]’s webpage says ‘forcing individuals to financially support religion was a direct assault of the fundamental human right of conscious’.”
Fry commented that spectators at football games have no choice but to support a religious organization, especially since outside food and drink is not allowed at Matthews Field.
“This religious organization takes an oath that in it says, ‘to all gods,’ and it is in direct conflict with the religion that I abide by… This organization is out of the Free Masons. They operate the concession stand at the stadium and no bidding is allowed for competition from local venders. The Upson Lee School System needs to address this immediately to prevent a lawsuit and the financial expenses related to such.”
Fry’s final concern was related to “divisiveness,” according to Fry. He claims that he was given of a copy of an article entitled “White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack,” which was allegedly previously distributed to board members.
“I was told this was handed out to the board… Was it handed out? I assume so,” commented Fry. “Thank you for your time. I don’t like coming up here, but things have to be addressed at some point.”
The board’s policy is to refrain from comment on public participation during board meetings.
The Upson Beacon contacted board members for comments.
Board Member Angeline McGill (District 1), who originally distributed the article to board members during an executive session, said she finds the article relevant. “Based on experiences I’ve had and based on the climate that we’re going through right now, there are a lot of things going on that we need to have a discussion about,” she said.
“I taught diversity training at UCSD Medical Center. We focused on those types of issues because of the way some patients were being treated based on their race and their ability to pay,” McGill commented. “That’s why I passed it out. There has to be a discussion about it. It wasn’t against anybody.
“I was born here but wasn’t raised here. A Lot of stuff happened in the world and I believe we’re going backwards instead of forwards. It’s relevant to the entire world,” McGill continued. “I’ve experienced some of the things going on now. I’ve lived in New Jersey, California, Virginia. It’s not just relevant to here, but it’s relevant in the world.”
Chairperson Jacqueline Hollis (District 2) said this in response to questions from the Beacon: “Angie McGill distributed the handout during an executive session. We did not have a discussion about it then; as a chair, the only thing we, as a board, will discuss in an executive session is policy, personnel, and budget items that are allowed during those sessions.”
Board member Sheila Hall (District 3) said, “I am upset about receiving the handout and, like others on the board, am offended. During the next meeting I gave it back to Angie and told her that it did not apply to me.”
Veterans Day Celebration
Honors Local Heroes
Published 11-19-2020
Picture by Luke Haney
The annual Veterans Day Observance Program was held last Wednesday at The Greatest Generation Memorial Park. The program included several different presentations by the Upson Lee High NJROTC, including March of the Colors, Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, NJROTC exhibition performance by the UL NJROTC Drill Team, and concluded with the playing of Taps. Wreaths representing the wars in which the U.S. Military have been involved were later placed at monuments around town. Sponsors include The American Legion: Pete Thurston Post 81, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81, Lucius Worthy Post 532 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 532, and UL High School NJROTC.
Picture by Luke Haney
The annual Veterans Day Observance Program was held last Wednesday at The Greatest Generation Memorial Park. The program included several different presentations by the Upson Lee High NJROTC, including March of the Colors, Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, NJROTC exhibition performance by the UL NJROTC Drill Team, and concluded with the playing of Taps. Wreaths representing the wars in which the U.S. Military have been involved were later placed at monuments around town. Sponsors include The American Legion: Pete Thurston Post 81, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81, Lucius Worthy Post 532 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 532, and UL High School NJROTC.
Silvertown District
Approved for National Register
of Historic Properties
Published 11-19-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The Georgia Division of the National Register Review Board met Friday, Nov. 6 to discuss two local areas for national historic preservation. The Silvertown Historic District and the John and Effie McDaniel House in Thomaston were both presented to the board for review and approval.
The Historic District of Silvertown is along both sides of Highway 19; roughly bounded by O Street and S Street to the West; R Street, Deluxe Circle, and E Street to the North; E Street, B Street and A Street to the East; and Fourth Avenue, Goodrich Avenue, and Third Avenue to the South.
Silvertown is an approximate 407-acre district encompassing recreation, commercial, industrial and residential resources, associated with the mill villages in Silvertown, developing as part of the B.F. Goodrich Company, beginning in the late 1920s.
The community of Silvertown is a part of Thomaston, although was an independent municipality from 1929 to 1958, when village homes were sold from the mills to residents.
Most distinct areas in the district include the Greatest Generation Memorial Park, Silvertown Ball Park, commercial areas in the center of the district, industrial areas, where the Martha Mill once stood, and the four residential villages: South Village, North Village, Highway Village, and West Village.
The Historic District of Silvertown was primary designed by Robert and Company, with consultation from landscape architect Earl Sumner Draper. The design features “Hallmark characteristics,” including curvilinear circulation, small triangular parks, plentiful green spaces and centrally located commercial and recreational facilities.
The district includes bungalows, designed from 1927-1929 by Robert and Co., and American Small Houses, designed from 1926-1927 by Atlanta Architect Richard Perry. Architectural styles include Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and English Vernacular Revival styles. Two large circular reservoirs, a pump house, and a boiler house and stack remain, showing evidence of the district’s industrial past.
The district is significant under areas of architecture, community planning and development, landscape architecture, and industry.
The nomination was sponsored by the Thomaston-Upson Landmark Legacy, The Silvertown Historic Preservation Project, the West Village Association, and the Upson Historical Society. WLA Studio prepared the presentation materials.
After the presentation, the floor was opened for public comment. Kay Hightower set the scene by describing Silvertown and meeting attendees and explaining the importance of the Silvertown District to the community before asking the board for their approval of the nomination.
Review Board Chair Laura Drummond commented on how much she enjoyed reading the nomination, because of the immense impact that Thomaston and Silvertown had on the nation’s textile industry.
Board member Staci Catron proposed a motion and board member Dave Rossell seconded the motion to approve the listing of Silvertown Historic District to the National Register of Historic Preservation and a unanimous vote approved Silvertown to be listed on the National Register. The nomination will soon move forward and be presented to the national board for approval.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The Georgia Division of the National Register Review Board met Friday, Nov. 6 to discuss two local areas for national historic preservation. The Silvertown Historic District and the John and Effie McDaniel House in Thomaston were both presented to the board for review and approval.
The Historic District of Silvertown is along both sides of Highway 19; roughly bounded by O Street and S Street to the West; R Street, Deluxe Circle, and E Street to the North; E Street, B Street and A Street to the East; and Fourth Avenue, Goodrich Avenue, and Third Avenue to the South.
Silvertown is an approximate 407-acre district encompassing recreation, commercial, industrial and residential resources, associated with the mill villages in Silvertown, developing as part of the B.F. Goodrich Company, beginning in the late 1920s.
The community of Silvertown is a part of Thomaston, although was an independent municipality from 1929 to 1958, when village homes were sold from the mills to residents.
Most distinct areas in the district include the Greatest Generation Memorial Park, Silvertown Ball Park, commercial areas in the center of the district, industrial areas, where the Martha Mill once stood, and the four residential villages: South Village, North Village, Highway Village, and West Village.
The Historic District of Silvertown was primary designed by Robert and Company, with consultation from landscape architect Earl Sumner Draper. The design features “Hallmark characteristics,” including curvilinear circulation, small triangular parks, plentiful green spaces and centrally located commercial and recreational facilities.
The district includes bungalows, designed from 1927-1929 by Robert and Co., and American Small Houses, designed from 1926-1927 by Atlanta Architect Richard Perry. Architectural styles include Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and English Vernacular Revival styles. Two large circular reservoirs, a pump house, and a boiler house and stack remain, showing evidence of the district’s industrial past.
The district is significant under areas of architecture, community planning and development, landscape architecture, and industry.
The nomination was sponsored by the Thomaston-Upson Landmark Legacy, The Silvertown Historic Preservation Project, the West Village Association, and the Upson Historical Society. WLA Studio prepared the presentation materials.
After the presentation, the floor was opened for public comment. Kay Hightower set the scene by describing Silvertown and meeting attendees and explaining the importance of the Silvertown District to the community before asking the board for their approval of the nomination.
Review Board Chair Laura Drummond commented on how much she enjoyed reading the nomination, because of the immense impact that Thomaston and Silvertown had on the nation’s textile industry.
Board member Staci Catron proposed a motion and board member Dave Rossell seconded the motion to approve the listing of Silvertown Historic District to the National Register of Historic Preservation and a unanimous vote approved Silvertown to be listed on the National Register. The nomination will soon move forward and be presented to the national board for approval.
November is American
Diabetes Month
UC Health Department November Health Awareness
Published 11-19-2020
According to The Mayo Clinic, diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is vital to your health because it's an important source of energy for the cells that make up your muscles and tissues. It's also your brain's main source of fuel.
The underlying cause of diabetes varies by type, but no matter what type of diabetes you have, it can lead to excess sugar in your blood. Too much sugar in your blood can lead to serious health problems.
Chronic diabetes conditions include type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Potentially reversible diabetes conditions include prediabetes — when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes — and gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy but may resolve after the baby is delivered.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, please see your physician.
Symptoms of diabetes include: increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, irritability, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, frequent infections.
Complications of diabetes include: cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, foot damage, skin conditions, hearing impairment, Alzheimer’s, and depression.
In Upson County, 12% of the adult population has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This is in line with the state average of 12%.
Factors that contribute to increased risk of type 2 diabetes (www.countyhealthrankings.org):
Lack of Physical Activity: In Upson county, 31% of the adult population is physically inactive.
Overweight and Obesity: In Upson county, 27% of the adult population is considered obese
Poverty: In Upson county, 33% of children live below the poverty line. Those living in poverty are less likely to get the medical attention needed to prevent (and later control) type 2 diabetes.
Serving Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup, and Upson Counties
Alcohol Consumption: In Upson county, 14% of the adult population drinks alcohol in excess. Alcohol contains sugar, which if consumed in excess can be a factor in the development of type 2 diabetes.
You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have a family history of this disease. To lower your risk:
• Watch your weight
• Eat healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Avoid foods and drinks that are high in added sugar
• Avoid fried foods and processed foods
• Exercise
• Get screened
The Upson County Health Department is located at 314 East Lee Street, Thomaston, GA 30286. Call 706-647-7148 for more information.
According to The Mayo Clinic, diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is vital to your health because it's an important source of energy for the cells that make up your muscles and tissues. It's also your brain's main source of fuel.
The underlying cause of diabetes varies by type, but no matter what type of diabetes you have, it can lead to excess sugar in your blood. Too much sugar in your blood can lead to serious health problems.
Chronic diabetes conditions include type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Potentially reversible diabetes conditions include prediabetes — when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes — and gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy but may resolve after the baby is delivered.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, please see your physician.
Symptoms of diabetes include: increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, irritability, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, frequent infections.
Complications of diabetes include: cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, foot damage, skin conditions, hearing impairment, Alzheimer’s, and depression.
In Upson County, 12% of the adult population has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This is in line with the state average of 12%.
Factors that contribute to increased risk of type 2 diabetes (www.countyhealthrankings.org):
Lack of Physical Activity: In Upson county, 31% of the adult population is physically inactive.
Overweight and Obesity: In Upson county, 27% of the adult population is considered obese
Poverty: In Upson county, 33% of children live below the poverty line. Those living in poverty are less likely to get the medical attention needed to prevent (and later control) type 2 diabetes.
Serving Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup, and Upson Counties
Alcohol Consumption: In Upson county, 14% of the adult population drinks alcohol in excess. Alcohol contains sugar, which if consumed in excess can be a factor in the development of type 2 diabetes.
You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have a family history of this disease. To lower your risk:
• Watch your weight
• Eat healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Avoid foods and drinks that are high in added sugar
• Avoid fried foods and processed foods
• Exercise
• Get screened
The Upson County Health Department is located at 314 East Lee Street, Thomaston, GA 30286. Call 706-647-7148 for more information.
Three Charged with Aggravated Assault in Beall Street Stabbing
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Published 11-12-2020
Salvalas Everett, 19, Jamiricale Everett, 17, and Deshawn Barkley, 20, all of Thomaston, have been arrested and charged with aggravated assault for the alleged politically motivated stabbing of 19-year-old Jaylan Harris Nov. 3 at a Beall Street residence, according to Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson.
The victim was air lifted to Macon Medical Center and is in stable condition at last report.
Officers responded to Big Chic at 222 Barnesville Street at approximately 8:40 p.m. to find Harris lying in the parking lot with multiple stab wounds. TPD officers and Upson County deputies rendered aid to the victim until emergency medical services arrived, Chief Richardson said.
A video obtained from a bystander revealed that the assault occurred in the yard of 216 Beall Street, then the victim was moved to Big Chic lot prior to officers arriving.
The attack was sparked by a social media post made by Harris in support of President Donald Trump, according to information gathered. Multiple parties responded with heated comments on social media, ultimately leading to a physical altercation in the yard of the residence.
All three offenders are being held at Upson County Jail, and additional charges and arrests are pending further investigation, according to Richardson.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident should contact Lt. Brian Hammock at 706-647-5455.
Other charges recently reported by the TPD include Brandon Tremaine Furlow, 31, of 4th Avenue in Thomaston, aggravated assault; Zayome Danay Davison, 29, of Old Lifsey Springs Road in Molena, possession of methamphetamine; Devin W. Huckaby, possession of meth; Sandra Williams, possession of meth; Edward Hollis Little, 35, of Forrest Avenue in Thomaston, felony probation violation; Joseph Anthony Alsobrooks, 36, of Avenue L in Thomaston, false imprisonment, along with misdemeanor battery and obstruction of law enforcement officers; Brandon Demond Respress, 22, of Avenue F in Thomaston, terroristic threats and acts, along with misdemeanor battery and obstruction; and Jeffery Murphy of Adams Street in Thomaston, terroristic threats and acts.
Salvalas Everett, 19, Jamiricale Everett, 17, and Deshawn Barkley, 20, all of Thomaston, have been arrested and charged with aggravated assault for the alleged politically motivated stabbing of 19-year-old Jaylan Harris Nov. 3 at a Beall Street residence, according to Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson.
The victim was air lifted to Macon Medical Center and is in stable condition at last report.
Officers responded to Big Chic at 222 Barnesville Street at approximately 8:40 p.m. to find Harris lying in the parking lot with multiple stab wounds. TPD officers and Upson County deputies rendered aid to the victim until emergency medical services arrived, Chief Richardson said.
A video obtained from a bystander revealed that the assault occurred in the yard of 216 Beall Street, then the victim was moved to Big Chic lot prior to officers arriving.
The attack was sparked by a social media post made by Harris in support of President Donald Trump, according to information gathered. Multiple parties responded with heated comments on social media, ultimately leading to a physical altercation in the yard of the residence.
All three offenders are being held at Upson County Jail, and additional charges and arrests are pending further investigation, according to Richardson.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident should contact Lt. Brian Hammock at 706-647-5455.
Other charges recently reported by the TPD include Brandon Tremaine Furlow, 31, of 4th Avenue in Thomaston, aggravated assault; Zayome Danay Davison, 29, of Old Lifsey Springs Road in Molena, possession of methamphetamine; Devin W. Huckaby, possession of meth; Sandra Williams, possession of meth; Edward Hollis Little, 35, of Forrest Avenue in Thomaston, felony probation violation; Joseph Anthony Alsobrooks, 36, of Avenue L in Thomaston, false imprisonment, along with misdemeanor battery and obstruction of law enforcement officers; Brandon Demond Respress, 22, of Avenue F in Thomaston, terroristic threats and acts, along with misdemeanor battery and obstruction; and Jeffery Murphy of Adams Street in Thomaston, terroristic threats and acts.
Fry Crowned 2020
Homecoming Queen
McKenzie Fry with her father Shawn after she
was crowned Homecoming Queen. Photo by Luke Haney
Published 11-12-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
McKenzie Fry was crowned the 2020 Upson Lee Homecoming Queen at the Upson Lee High School Homecoming game last Friday night at Matthew’s Field.
Senior Homecoming Court consisted of seniors Emily Caldwell, Zaria Childs, Tranese Crafter, Brianna Daniel, Jessica Fernandez, McKenzie Fry, Kennedy Kendall, DiZarria Lemons, Tatum Michael, Madison Murphy, and Camiya Neal.
Brianna Daniel received First Runner Up and Camiya Neal received Second Runner Up.
Junior Princess Court consisted of Chelsi Acey, Anna Fedrowiz, Noelle Delli-Gatti, Keresten Sherry, and Emily Stevens. Chelsi Acey was crowned the 2020 Junior Princess.
Sophomore Princess Court consisted of Madason Clarke, Lindsey Eldridge, Hannah Meatows, Josie Perdue, and Devony Robinson. Devony Robinson was crowned the 2020 Sophomore Princess.
Freshman Princess Court consisted of Khatija Alexander, Akeen Chaney, Jillian Gassman, Kailen Powell, and Lizzie Stewart. Kailen Powell was crowned the 2020 Freshman Princess
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
McKenzie Fry was crowned the 2020 Upson Lee Homecoming Queen at the Upson Lee High School Homecoming game last Friday night at Matthew’s Field.
Senior Homecoming Court consisted of seniors Emily Caldwell, Zaria Childs, Tranese Crafter, Brianna Daniel, Jessica Fernandez, McKenzie Fry, Kennedy Kendall, DiZarria Lemons, Tatum Michael, Madison Murphy, and Camiya Neal.
Brianna Daniel received First Runner Up and Camiya Neal received Second Runner Up.
Junior Princess Court consisted of Chelsi Acey, Anna Fedrowiz, Noelle Delli-Gatti, Keresten Sherry, and Emily Stevens. Chelsi Acey was crowned the 2020 Junior Princess.
Sophomore Princess Court consisted of Madason Clarke, Lindsey Eldridge, Hannah Meatows, Josie Perdue, and Devony Robinson. Devony Robinson was crowned the 2020 Sophomore Princess.
Freshman Princess Court consisted of Khatija Alexander, Akeen Chaney, Jillian Gassman, Kailen Powell, and Lizzie Stewart. Kailen Powell was crowned the 2020 Freshman Princess
Incumbents Sweep Local Races
Camp Tops Benton for State House Seat
Published 11-12-2020
Challenged incumbents retained their elected Upson County positions by convincing margins Tuesday, and Republican Beth Camp secured the Georgia House of Representatives District 131 seat with a decisive win over Democrat Chris Benton.
Incumbent Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen received 69.5 percent of the votes against challenger Dehundra Caldwell’s 30.5 percent to retain his position with an 8,729 to 3,830 count.
Incumbent District 1 Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder earned 55.3 percent of votes against Christopher Biggs’ 44.7 percent to thwart the challenger by a 1,560 to 1,259 tally; and incumbent coroner James George received 68.5 percent of votes to Jerry Meadows’ 31.5 percent to retain his position by an 8,668 to 3,988 margin.
In four unopposed Upson County races, Sheriff Dan Kilgore retained his office with 11,078 votes; Teresa Harper remained as clerk of Superior Court with 11,038 votes; Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain held his office with 10,712 votes; and James Ellington kept his District 2 seat on the county commission with 3,350 votes.
Camp ran the table against Benton to represent state house District 131, racking up 20,169 total votes (74.9 percent) to Benton’s 6,772 (25.1 percent) in three counties.
Upson voters cast 8,593 votes (68.4 percent) for Camp and 3,964 (31.6 percent) for Benton; Lamar, 2,372 (61.9 percent) for Camp and 1,459 (38.1 percent) for Benton; and Pike, 9,204 (87.2 percent) for Camp and 1,349 (12.8 percent) for Benton.
Unopposed incumbent Georgia District 18 Sen. John F. Kennedy received 10,553 Upson County votes.
Upson voted heavily in favor of President Donald Trump, casting 8,602 ballots (66.7 percent) for the incumbent to challenger Joe Biden’s 4,201 (32.6 percent).
Republican incumbent Sen. David Perdue got the nod from Upson with 8,563 votes (67 percent) to Democrat challenger Jon Ossoff’s 4,000 (31 percent) for United States Congress, and Republican incumbent Drew Ferguson tallied 8,660 votes (69.5 percent) to Democrat challenger Val Almonord’s 3,806 (30.5 percent) for U.S. House District 3 representation.
In the crowded U.S. Senate special election, Upson voters leaned toward Republican Kelly Loeffler with 4,236 votes (33.3 percent), followed by Republican Doug Collins with 3,638 (28.6 percent). Loeffler faces a runoff with Democrat Raphael Warnock, who earned 3,079 votes (24.2 percent) in Upson.
Challenged incumbents retained their elected Upson County positions by convincing margins Tuesday, and Republican Beth Camp secured the Georgia House of Representatives District 131 seat with a decisive win over Democrat Chris Benton.
Incumbent Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen received 69.5 percent of the votes against challenger Dehundra Caldwell’s 30.5 percent to retain his position with an 8,729 to 3,830 count.
Incumbent District 1 Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder earned 55.3 percent of votes against Christopher Biggs’ 44.7 percent to thwart the challenger by a 1,560 to 1,259 tally; and incumbent coroner James George received 68.5 percent of votes to Jerry Meadows’ 31.5 percent to retain his position by an 8,668 to 3,988 margin.
In four unopposed Upson County races, Sheriff Dan Kilgore retained his office with 11,078 votes; Teresa Harper remained as clerk of Superior Court with 11,038 votes; Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain held his office with 10,712 votes; and James Ellington kept his District 2 seat on the county commission with 3,350 votes.
Camp ran the table against Benton to represent state house District 131, racking up 20,169 total votes (74.9 percent) to Benton’s 6,772 (25.1 percent) in three counties.
Upson voters cast 8,593 votes (68.4 percent) for Camp and 3,964 (31.6 percent) for Benton; Lamar, 2,372 (61.9 percent) for Camp and 1,459 (38.1 percent) for Benton; and Pike, 9,204 (87.2 percent) for Camp and 1,349 (12.8 percent) for Benton.
Unopposed incumbent Georgia District 18 Sen. John F. Kennedy received 10,553 Upson County votes.
Upson voted heavily in favor of President Donald Trump, casting 8,602 ballots (66.7 percent) for the incumbent to challenger Joe Biden’s 4,201 (32.6 percent).
Republican incumbent Sen. David Perdue got the nod from Upson with 8,563 votes (67 percent) to Democrat challenger Jon Ossoff’s 4,000 (31 percent) for United States Congress, and Republican incumbent Drew Ferguson tallied 8,660 votes (69.5 percent) to Democrat challenger Val Almonord’s 3,806 (30.5 percent) for U.S. House District 3 representation.
In the crowded U.S. Senate special election, Upson voters leaned toward Republican Kelly Loeffler with 4,236 votes (33.3 percent), followed by Republican Doug Collins with 3,638 (28.6 percent). Loeffler faces a runoff with Democrat Raphael Warnock, who earned 3,079 votes (24.2 percent) in Upson.
Upson is Host to
Gang Member Roundup
Members of Bloods ‘Sub-Sect’ to be Tried in Thomaston
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, Attorney General Chris Carr, GBI Director Vic Reynolds, Griffin Judicial Circuit DA Marie Broder, and law enforcement officials from surrounding counties attended a press conference in Thomaston last week to announce multiple gang-related indictments and arrests.
Published 11-5-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County is at the center of a multi-year, multi-agency effort, “Operation Caged Doves,” which has led to the indictment of 46 on gang-related charges under the state’s racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations statute, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
At the time of Gov. Brian Kemp’s press conference in Thomaston last week, 25 arrests had been made and 21 remained at large. Twenty-four of those arrested, ranging in age from 17 to 41, were booked into the Upson County Jail.
Ronald Elwood Chatman, believed to be leader of the “Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods,” was arrested in Los Angeles, Calif. the day before the press conference, according to GBI Director Vic Reynolds. The 53-year-old known as “Mad Ronald Chatman” is in the L.A. County Jail awaiting extradition to Upson County.
“GBI Gang Task Force members, standing with the L.A. County Sheriff, LAPD, and the FBI Fugitive Task Force, placed Chatman in custody,” Reynolds said. He added that the Rollin 20s is a “sub-sect” of the Bloods with a “strong flavor from the L.A. area,” and that agents believe Chatman is a third-generation member of the gang.
Others arrested are Christopher Tyler Bennett, 24; Xavier Lamar Carter, 21; Tyree Dasean Crosland, 27; Derrick Lavar Ferguson, 41; Robert Freeman, III, 26; Juan Manuel Gomez-Penaloza, 25; Travis Alan Goode, 31; Shamune Deante’ Harris, 29; Charles Bradford Martin, 36; Kenneth Darnell Patterson, 31; Sterling Leroy Pennix, 31; Zacorrius Tykevius Pope, 23; Winston Porter, 23; Christopher Jacori Rogers, III, 20; Bobby Roshaun Rouseau, 23; Damarion Q Sinkfield, 17; Anthony Wade Smith, Jr., 29; Maurice Kentrell Stewart, 30; Darron Lamar Stokes, 39; Larris Donnie Sutton, 32; Asia Larie Thompson, 31; Jason Velasquez, 18; Myrrin Trelorenz Watson, 41; and Samuel A. Workeneh, 17.
Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Broder explained her personal motive for bringing gang members to Upson to stand trial.
“It was important to me because I’ve seen the suffering and evil that gangs inflict on our community… promising easy money and delivering nothing but a criminal record and a lifetime of regret,” Broder said at the press conference. “Over the past several years, I have watched as gangs have infiltrated our circuit. It is time to drive them out.”
She delivered a message directly to gang members.
“Don’t come here. The GJC is my home and, in my opinion, the greatest circuit in the state… I will do whatever it takes to protect this place,” Broder stated. “If you choose to commit crime [here], we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law. Justice will not be denied.
“Today we take a strong stance against gang activity because the Griffin Judicial Circuit is no place for organized crime,” she concluded.
Charges listed in the 46 indictments include the following:
• 92 counts of RICO Act
• 59 counts of violations of the Georgia Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
• Four counts of felony murder
• 24 counts of aggravated assault
• Four counts of kidnapping
• Four counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery
• Three counts of trafficking methamphetamine
• Three counts of trafficking heroin
• Five counts of possession of firearm during commission of a felony
• Five counts of felon in possession of a firearm
• Four counts of battery
• Three counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana
• Two counts financial transaction card fraud
• One count of conspiracy to commit financial transaction card fraud
• Two counts of tampering with evidence
At the time of the press conference, the following individuals had not been apprehended: LaKeisha Alexander, 30; Adelino De Araujo, 27; Javier Gilberto Bernardo, 19; Reginald Carter, Jr., 26; Abraham Croxton, III, 44; Abraham Jamal Felder, 32; Draylin LaKeith Holland, 22; Trakia Nashay Johnson, 23; Nico Antwain Jones, 32; Quentin Arnell Lawyer, 40; Tristan Dominic Monfort, 23; Andre Denard Noble, 37; Alphonso Quiroz Plancarte, age unknown (Foreign National); Marquise Eugene Rangel, 39; Anthony Quantaus Scott, 40; Desmond Darnell Stafford, 30; Zachary Matthew Taylor, 29; JD Christopher Trottman, 34; Terry Lamar Walker, 33; Devin Trelorenz Washington, 28; and Ryan Matthew Willis, 21.
Gov. Kemp echoed Broder’s sentiments with his own message for gangs.
“Just because we’re having a press conference today… our work is not done. We will continue to work hard every day to keep our citizens safe,” Kemp said at the courthouse in downtown Thomaston. “We will follow you wherever we need to – all across this state and all across this country – to bring you to justice.”
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County is at the center of a multi-year, multi-agency effort, “Operation Caged Doves,” which has led to the indictment of 46 on gang-related charges under the state’s racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations statute, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
At the time of Gov. Brian Kemp’s press conference in Thomaston last week, 25 arrests had been made and 21 remained at large. Twenty-four of those arrested, ranging in age from 17 to 41, were booked into the Upson County Jail.
Ronald Elwood Chatman, believed to be leader of the “Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods,” was arrested in Los Angeles, Calif. the day before the press conference, according to GBI Director Vic Reynolds. The 53-year-old known as “Mad Ronald Chatman” is in the L.A. County Jail awaiting extradition to Upson County.
“GBI Gang Task Force members, standing with the L.A. County Sheriff, LAPD, and the FBI Fugitive Task Force, placed Chatman in custody,” Reynolds said. He added that the Rollin 20s is a “sub-sect” of the Bloods with a “strong flavor from the L.A. area,” and that agents believe Chatman is a third-generation member of the gang.
Others arrested are Christopher Tyler Bennett, 24; Xavier Lamar Carter, 21; Tyree Dasean Crosland, 27; Derrick Lavar Ferguson, 41; Robert Freeman, III, 26; Juan Manuel Gomez-Penaloza, 25; Travis Alan Goode, 31; Shamune Deante’ Harris, 29; Charles Bradford Martin, 36; Kenneth Darnell Patterson, 31; Sterling Leroy Pennix, 31; Zacorrius Tykevius Pope, 23; Winston Porter, 23; Christopher Jacori Rogers, III, 20; Bobby Roshaun Rouseau, 23; Damarion Q Sinkfield, 17; Anthony Wade Smith, Jr., 29; Maurice Kentrell Stewart, 30; Darron Lamar Stokes, 39; Larris Donnie Sutton, 32; Asia Larie Thompson, 31; Jason Velasquez, 18; Myrrin Trelorenz Watson, 41; and Samuel A. Workeneh, 17.
Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Broder explained her personal motive for bringing gang members to Upson to stand trial.
“It was important to me because I’ve seen the suffering and evil that gangs inflict on our community… promising easy money and delivering nothing but a criminal record and a lifetime of regret,” Broder said at the press conference. “Over the past several years, I have watched as gangs have infiltrated our circuit. It is time to drive them out.”
She delivered a message directly to gang members.
“Don’t come here. The GJC is my home and, in my opinion, the greatest circuit in the state… I will do whatever it takes to protect this place,” Broder stated. “If you choose to commit crime [here], we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law. Justice will not be denied.
“Today we take a strong stance against gang activity because the Griffin Judicial Circuit is no place for organized crime,” she concluded.
Charges listed in the 46 indictments include the following:
• 92 counts of RICO Act
• 59 counts of violations of the Georgia Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
• Four counts of felony murder
• 24 counts of aggravated assault
• Four counts of kidnapping
• Four counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery
• Three counts of trafficking methamphetamine
• Three counts of trafficking heroin
• Five counts of possession of firearm during commission of a felony
• Five counts of felon in possession of a firearm
• Four counts of battery
• Three counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana
• Two counts financial transaction card fraud
• One count of conspiracy to commit financial transaction card fraud
• Two counts of tampering with evidence
At the time of the press conference, the following individuals had not been apprehended: LaKeisha Alexander, 30; Adelino De Araujo, 27; Javier Gilberto Bernardo, 19; Reginald Carter, Jr., 26; Abraham Croxton, III, 44; Abraham Jamal Felder, 32; Draylin LaKeith Holland, 22; Trakia Nashay Johnson, 23; Nico Antwain Jones, 32; Quentin Arnell Lawyer, 40; Tristan Dominic Monfort, 23; Andre Denard Noble, 37; Alphonso Quiroz Plancarte, age unknown (Foreign National); Marquise Eugene Rangel, 39; Anthony Quantaus Scott, 40; Desmond Darnell Stafford, 30; Zachary Matthew Taylor, 29; JD Christopher Trottman, 34; Terry Lamar Walker, 33; Devin Trelorenz Washington, 28; and Ryan Matthew Willis, 21.
Gov. Kemp echoed Broder’s sentiments with his own message for gangs.
“Just because we’re having a press conference today… our work is not done. We will continue to work hard every day to keep our citizens safe,” Kemp said at the courthouse in downtown Thomaston. “We will follow you wherever we need to – all across this state and all across this country – to bring you to justice.”
Local Law Enforcement Playing Key Role During ‘Operation Caged Doves’
46 Gang-Related Indictments Issued
Published 11-5-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Local law enforcement played a crucial role in “Operation Caged Doves,” according to state officials who conducted a press conference at the Upson County courthouse last week to announce 46 indictments related to area gang activity.
Gov. Brian Kemp, Attorney General Chris Carr, Georgia Bureau of Investigations Director Vic Reynolds, and Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Broder applauded the efforts of the Thomaston Police Department, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, and DA’s office which resulted in 46 indictments on gang-related charges.
“In March 2019, the Upson County DA’s Office reached out to the GBI Gang Task Force requesting that agents take a deep look into connected crimes in the Upson, Fayette, and Spalding County areas,” Director Reynolds said at the press conference. “The Gang Task Force, with the investigative support of local, state, and federal partners, initiated an extensive investigation.
“The investigation showed that between May 2014 and September 2020, the men and women who have been indicted participated in a pattern of racketeering activity as part of the criminal enterprise known as the Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods,” Reynolds explained. “They operated across the State of Georgia, including but not limited to Upson, Fayette, Spalding, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Richmond, Greene, Telfair, and Washington Counties, and throughout the United States.
"This criminal enterprise committed numerous crimes, including but not limited to drug trafficking, assault, theft of money and personal property, conspiring to assault inmates, and recruiting gang members,” Reynolds stated.
In addition to TPD, UCSO, and the GJC DA, the GBI was assisted by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Fayetteville PD, Spalding County Sheriff’s Office, Griffin PD, Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Unit, Homeland Security Investigations of Atlanta, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Atlanta Division, Reynolds said.
Cases are being prosecuted by DA Broder’s office.
“I’m very proud of the work my investigators and patrol officers performed on the investigation and arrests of Bobby Rouseau and Zacorrius Pope,” TPD Chief Mike Richardson said. “Both Rouseau and Pope, who are affiliated with the Rollin 20 Neighborhood Bloods, were involved in two separate armed robberies and a shooting in Thomaston Gardens during the summer of 2019. It was those investigations and arrests that provided gang intelligence to link both subjects to the Blood gang network and the connection to indict the defendants in this extensive GBI Gang Task Force operation in Upson County.”
“I would like to thank the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, Griffin PD, and the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in arresting both Rouseau and Pope, who had fled Thomaston in 2019,” Richardson continued. “I would also like to give a special thanks to the GBI Gang Task Force and the Griffin Judicial Circuit DA’s Office, who have worked tirelessly with all the agencies and jurisdictions involved to bring this extensive gang operation together so we can prosecute these gang members and send a message that criminal gang activity will not be tolerated in our circuit.”
Upson Sheriff Dan Kilgore opened the press conference in Thomaston.
“Gang crime doesn’t recognize jurisdictional boundaries. Gang related crime in any community has a negative impact on the safety and quality of life of all Georgians,” Kilgore said. “I’m thankful for the tireless and selfless work done by all law enforcement and prosecutorial personnel in this case to make our community and our state safer for everyone.
“This is a significant case. Those charged conspired together to violate the laws of our state and commit serious felony offenses. I look forward to seeing those indicted brought to justice,” Kilgore continued. “This case is also an example of how partnerships, relationships, and collaboration efforts on behalf of law enforcement can be effectively used to hold organized criminals accountable for their actions.”
Kilgore added that his office “will have additional security measures in place to assure the safety of our court facilities, as well as all personnel involved” during court appearances and trials.
At the press conference, Reynolds said Broder’s office will “tote the water” when prosecuting the cases brought under RICO and Georgia Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Acts.
“I was honored to partner with so many agencies to be able to present this indictment to an Upson County Grand Jury,” Broder said. “Upson County has been targeted by Rollin' 20s NHB gang members for the past several years. When two of these gang members attempted to commit violent crime in Thomaston, the decision was made by my office to pursue this case in Upson.
“The 46 defendants charged have committed crime across our circuit and the state,” Broder continued. “I look forward to working with my team and my law enforcement partners to ensure that these evildoers who have acted with impunity for far too long are punished.”
The GBI Gang Task Force is comprised of the following agencies: Atlanta PD, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Spalding County SO, Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta, and the Georgia National Guard.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Local law enforcement played a crucial role in “Operation Caged Doves,” according to state officials who conducted a press conference at the Upson County courthouse last week to announce 46 indictments related to area gang activity.
Gov. Brian Kemp, Attorney General Chris Carr, Georgia Bureau of Investigations Director Vic Reynolds, and Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Broder applauded the efforts of the Thomaston Police Department, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, and DA’s office which resulted in 46 indictments on gang-related charges.
“In March 2019, the Upson County DA’s Office reached out to the GBI Gang Task Force requesting that agents take a deep look into connected crimes in the Upson, Fayette, and Spalding County areas,” Director Reynolds said at the press conference. “The Gang Task Force, with the investigative support of local, state, and federal partners, initiated an extensive investigation.
“The investigation showed that between May 2014 and September 2020, the men and women who have been indicted participated in a pattern of racketeering activity as part of the criminal enterprise known as the Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods,” Reynolds explained. “They operated across the State of Georgia, including but not limited to Upson, Fayette, Spalding, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Richmond, Greene, Telfair, and Washington Counties, and throughout the United States.
"This criminal enterprise committed numerous crimes, including but not limited to drug trafficking, assault, theft of money and personal property, conspiring to assault inmates, and recruiting gang members,” Reynolds stated.
In addition to TPD, UCSO, and the GJC DA, the GBI was assisted by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Fayetteville PD, Spalding County Sheriff’s Office, Griffin PD, Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Unit, Homeland Security Investigations of Atlanta, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Atlanta Division, Reynolds said.
Cases are being prosecuted by DA Broder’s office.
“I’m very proud of the work my investigators and patrol officers performed on the investigation and arrests of Bobby Rouseau and Zacorrius Pope,” TPD Chief Mike Richardson said. “Both Rouseau and Pope, who are affiliated with the Rollin 20 Neighborhood Bloods, were involved in two separate armed robberies and a shooting in Thomaston Gardens during the summer of 2019. It was those investigations and arrests that provided gang intelligence to link both subjects to the Blood gang network and the connection to indict the defendants in this extensive GBI Gang Task Force operation in Upson County.”
“I would like to thank the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, Griffin PD, and the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in arresting both Rouseau and Pope, who had fled Thomaston in 2019,” Richardson continued. “I would also like to give a special thanks to the GBI Gang Task Force and the Griffin Judicial Circuit DA’s Office, who have worked tirelessly with all the agencies and jurisdictions involved to bring this extensive gang operation together so we can prosecute these gang members and send a message that criminal gang activity will not be tolerated in our circuit.”
Upson Sheriff Dan Kilgore opened the press conference in Thomaston.
“Gang crime doesn’t recognize jurisdictional boundaries. Gang related crime in any community has a negative impact on the safety and quality of life of all Georgians,” Kilgore said. “I’m thankful for the tireless and selfless work done by all law enforcement and prosecutorial personnel in this case to make our community and our state safer for everyone.
“This is a significant case. Those charged conspired together to violate the laws of our state and commit serious felony offenses. I look forward to seeing those indicted brought to justice,” Kilgore continued. “This case is also an example of how partnerships, relationships, and collaboration efforts on behalf of law enforcement can be effectively used to hold organized criminals accountable for their actions.”
Kilgore added that his office “will have additional security measures in place to assure the safety of our court facilities, as well as all personnel involved” during court appearances and trials.
At the press conference, Reynolds said Broder’s office will “tote the water” when prosecuting the cases brought under RICO and Georgia Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Acts.
“I was honored to partner with so many agencies to be able to present this indictment to an Upson County Grand Jury,” Broder said. “Upson County has been targeted by Rollin' 20s NHB gang members for the past several years. When two of these gang members attempted to commit violent crime in Thomaston, the decision was made by my office to pursue this case in Upson.
“The 46 defendants charged have committed crime across our circuit and the state,” Broder continued. “I look forward to working with my team and my law enforcement partners to ensure that these evildoers who have acted with impunity for far too long are punished.”
The GBI Gang Task Force is comprised of the following agencies: Atlanta PD, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Spalding County SO, Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta, and the Georgia National Guard.
3 Charged in Stabbing Death
Suryavamsham
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Pinnaka
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English
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Published 11-5-2020
Two men and one woman have been arrested and charged with varying degrees of murder in the Sunday morning stabbing death of 37-year-old Mohammed Arif “Seth” Mohiuddin, according to Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson.
In custody are Shekar Rao “Sonni” Suryavamsham, 36, charged with felony murder, malice murder and aggravated assault; Gopi Chand Pinnaka, 44, charged with party to the crime of felony murder, malice murder and aggravated assault; and Laura Joy English, 52, charged with party to the crime of felony murder, malice murder, aggravated assault and obstruction.
Charges may change pending Georgia Bureau of Investigation crime lab results determining which suspect stabbed the victim, but all three were present during the altercation, according to Chief Richardson.
TPD officers responded to 104-B Crawley Street at 1:30 a.m. Sunday, joined by an Upson County Sheriff’s Office deputy, and began administering first aid to the victim, who was conscious and speaking, the report stated. Emergency medical services transported Mohiuddin to Upson Regional Medical Center, where he later died from the injuries.
“After an extensive, all-night investigation by TPD investigators and uniform patrol officers, with assistance from the Spalding County Crime Scene Unit, we were able to locate two vehicles, evidence, and three suspects involved in the incident,” Richardson said. “I’m extremely proud of our department’s efforts because we had very little to work with.”
None of the suspects were at the scene when law enforcement arrived.
Richardson said he believes the incident stemmed from a dispute among the victim and two of the offenders regarding “business dealings.” The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Two men and one woman have been arrested and charged with varying degrees of murder in the Sunday morning stabbing death of 37-year-old Mohammed Arif “Seth” Mohiuddin, according to Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson.
In custody are Shekar Rao “Sonni” Suryavamsham, 36, charged with felony murder, malice murder and aggravated assault; Gopi Chand Pinnaka, 44, charged with party to the crime of felony murder, malice murder and aggravated assault; and Laura Joy English, 52, charged with party to the crime of felony murder, malice murder, aggravated assault and obstruction.
Charges may change pending Georgia Bureau of Investigation crime lab results determining which suspect stabbed the victim, but all three were present during the altercation, according to Chief Richardson.
TPD officers responded to 104-B Crawley Street at 1:30 a.m. Sunday, joined by an Upson County Sheriff’s Office deputy, and began administering first aid to the victim, who was conscious and speaking, the report stated. Emergency medical services transported Mohiuddin to Upson Regional Medical Center, where he later died from the injuries.
“After an extensive, all-night investigation by TPD investigators and uniform patrol officers, with assistance from the Spalding County Crime Scene Unit, we were able to locate two vehicles, evidence, and three suspects involved in the incident,” Richardson said. “I’m extremely proud of our department’s efforts because we had very little to work with.”
None of the suspects were at the scene when law enforcement arrived.
Richardson said he believes the incident stemmed from a dispute among the victim and two of the offenders regarding “business dealings.” The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Brown Elected President
Jack & Jill America
Kornisha McGill Brown
Published 11-5-2020
Thomaston native Kornisha McGill Brown was elected recently as the 27th national president of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., according to a release from the organization.
With more than 245 chapters nationwide, representing more than 40,000 family members, Jack and Jill of America is the nation’s oldest African American family organization. Founded in 1938, Jack and Jill boasts the specific mission of “nurturing future African American leaders.”
Brown has served as a member of the organization for more than 13 years, fulfilling roles and responsibilities that include 2017-2019 regional director of the Southeastern Region, 2015-2017 regional secretary, regional nominating committee member for two terms, and regional chair of rules and regulations.
In 2015, Brown was recognized as Chapter President of the Year by the Southeastern Region during her term as president of the Columbus, Ga. chapter.
“As mothers, we unite together in Jack and Jill with the primary purpose of seeing our children and all children succeed in every way,” Brown said. “Together, we are committed to ensuring Jack and Jill remains revered and prepared for the future. I am committed to keeping our children as a top priority.”
Brown is an educator, servant leader, small business managing partner, and philanthropist, according to the press release. She is a member of The Links Columbus Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and board of directors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Chattahoochee Valley.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Spelman College and a master’s degree in social science education from the University of Georgia.
Brown and her husband, Dr. Darius K. Brown, Sr., reside in Columbus with their two children, Jordan Janay Brown and Darius Brown, Jr. They are active members of New Birth Outreach Church in Columbus.
Thomaston native Kornisha McGill Brown was elected recently as the 27th national president of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., according to a release from the organization.
With more than 245 chapters nationwide, representing more than 40,000 family members, Jack and Jill of America is the nation’s oldest African American family organization. Founded in 1938, Jack and Jill boasts the specific mission of “nurturing future African American leaders.”
Brown has served as a member of the organization for more than 13 years, fulfilling roles and responsibilities that include 2017-2019 regional director of the Southeastern Region, 2015-2017 regional secretary, regional nominating committee member for two terms, and regional chair of rules and regulations.
In 2015, Brown was recognized as Chapter President of the Year by the Southeastern Region during her term as president of the Columbus, Ga. chapter.
“As mothers, we unite together in Jack and Jill with the primary purpose of seeing our children and all children succeed in every way,” Brown said. “Together, we are committed to ensuring Jack and Jill remains revered and prepared for the future. I am committed to keeping our children as a top priority.”
Brown is an educator, servant leader, small business managing partner, and philanthropist, according to the press release. She is a member of The Links Columbus Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and board of directors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Chattahoochee Valley.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Spelman College and a master’s degree in social science education from the University of Georgia.
Brown and her husband, Dr. Darius K. Brown, Sr., reside in Columbus with their two children, Jordan Janay Brown and Darius Brown, Jr. They are active members of New Birth Outreach Church in Columbus.
Incumbents Sweep Local Races
Camp Tops Benton for State House Seat
Beth Camp
Published 11/4/2020
Challenged incumbents retained their elected Upson County positions by convincing margins Tuesday, and Republican Beth Camp secured the Georgia House of Representatives District 131 seat with a decisive win over Democrat Chris Benton.
Incumbent Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen received 69.5 percent of the votes against challenger Dehundra Caldwell’s 30.5 percent to retain his position with an 8,729 to 3,830 count.
Incumbent District 1 Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder earned 55.3 percent of votes against Christopher Biggs’ 44.7 percent to thwart the challenger by a 1,560 to 1,259 tally; and incumbent coroner James George received 68.5 percent of votes to Jerry Meadows’ 31.5 percent to retain his position by an 8,668 to 3,988 margin.
In four unopposed Upson County races, Sheriff Dan Kilgore retained his office with 11,078 votes; Teresa Harper remained as clerk of Superior Court with 11,038 votes; Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain held his office with 10,712 votes; and James Ellington kept his District 2 seat on the county commission with 3,350 votes.
Camp ran the table against Benton to represent state house District 131, racking up 20,169 total votes (74.9 percent) to Benton’s 6,772 (25.1 percent) in three counties.
Upson voters cast 8,593 votes (68.4 percent) for Camp and 3,964 (31.6 percent) for Benton; Lamar, 2,372 (61.9 percent) for Camp and 1,459 (38.1 percent) for Benton; and Pike, 9,204 (87.2 percent) for Camp and 1,349 (12.8 percent) for Benton.
Unopposed incumbent Georgia District 18 Sen. John F. Kennedy received 10,553 Upson County votes.
Upson voted heavily in favor of President Donald Trump, casting 8,602 ballots (66.7 percent) for the incumbent to challenger Joe Biden’s 4,201 (32.6 percent).
Republican incumbent Sen. David Perdue got the nod from Upson with 8,563 votes (67 percent) to Democrat challenger Jon Ossoff’s 4,000 (31 percent) for United States Congress, and Republican incumbent Drew Ferguson tallied 8,660 votes (69.5 percent) to Democrat challenger Val Almonord’s 3,806 (30.5 percent) for U.S. House District 3 representation.
In the crowded U.S. Senate special election, Upson voters leaned toward Republican Kelly Loeffler with 4,236 votes (33.3 percent), followed by Republican Doug Collins with 3,638 (28.6 percent). Loeffler faces a runoff with Democrat Raphael Warnock, who earned 3,079 votes (24.2 percent) in Upson.
Challenged incumbents retained their elected Upson County positions by convincing margins Tuesday, and Republican Beth Camp secured the Georgia House of Representatives District 131 seat with a decisive win over Democrat Chris Benton.
Incumbent Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen received 69.5 percent of the votes against challenger Dehundra Caldwell’s 30.5 percent to retain his position with an 8,729 to 3,830 count.
Incumbent District 1 Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder earned 55.3 percent of votes against Christopher Biggs’ 44.7 percent to thwart the challenger by a 1,560 to 1,259 tally; and incumbent coroner James George received 68.5 percent of votes to Jerry Meadows’ 31.5 percent to retain his position by an 8,668 to 3,988 margin.
In four unopposed Upson County races, Sheriff Dan Kilgore retained his office with 11,078 votes; Teresa Harper remained as clerk of Superior Court with 11,038 votes; Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain held his office with 10,712 votes; and James Ellington kept his District 2 seat on the county commission with 3,350 votes.
Camp ran the table against Benton to represent state house District 131, racking up 20,169 total votes (74.9 percent) to Benton’s 6,772 (25.1 percent) in three counties.
Upson voters cast 8,593 votes (68.4 percent) for Camp and 3,964 (31.6 percent) for Benton; Lamar, 2,372 (61.9 percent) for Camp and 1,459 (38.1 percent) for Benton; and Pike, 9,204 (87.2 percent) for Camp and 1,349 (12.8 percent) for Benton.
Unopposed incumbent Georgia District 18 Sen. John F. Kennedy received 10,553 Upson County votes.
Upson voted heavily in favor of President Donald Trump, casting 8,602 ballots (66.7 percent) for the incumbent to challenger Joe Biden’s 4,201 (32.6 percent).
Republican incumbent Sen. David Perdue got the nod from Upson with 8,563 votes (67 percent) to Democrat challenger Jon Ossoff’s 4,000 (31 percent) for United States Congress, and Republican incumbent Drew Ferguson tallied 8,660 votes (69.5 percent) to Democrat challenger Val Almonord’s 3,806 (30.5 percent) for U.S. House District 3 representation.
In the crowded U.S. Senate special election, Upson voters leaned toward Republican Kelly Loeffler with 4,236 votes (33.3 percent), followed by Republican Doug Collins with 3,638 (28.6 percent). Loeffler faces a runoff with Democrat Raphael Warnock, who earned 3,079 votes (24.2 percent) in Upson.
Upson is Host to
Gang Member Roundup
Members of Bloods ‘Sub-Sect’ to be Tried in Thomaston
Published 10-30-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County is at the center of a multi-year, multi-agency effort, “Operation Caged Doves,” which has led to the indictment of 46 on gang-related charges under the state’s racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations statute, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
At the time of Gov. Brian Kemp’s press conference in Thomaston last week, 25 arrests had been made and 21 remained at large. Twenty-four of those arrested, ranging in age from 17 to 41, were booked into the Upson County Jail.
Ronald Elwood Chatman, believed to be leader of the “Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods,” was arrested in Los Angeles, Calif. the day before the press conference, according to GBI Director Vic Reynolds. The 53-year-old known as “Mad Ronald Chatman” is in the L.A. County Jail awaiting extradition to Upson County... See the full story in the Nov. 5 edition of The Upson Beacon.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County is at the center of a multi-year, multi-agency effort, “Operation Caged Doves,” which has led to the indictment of 46 on gang-related charges under the state’s racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations statute, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
At the time of Gov. Brian Kemp’s press conference in Thomaston last week, 25 arrests had been made and 21 remained at large. Twenty-four of those arrested, ranging in age from 17 to 41, were booked into the Upson County Jail.
Ronald Elwood Chatman, believed to be leader of the “Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods,” was arrested in Los Angeles, Calif. the day before the press conference, according to GBI Director Vic Reynolds. The 53-year-old known as “Mad Ronald Chatman” is in the L.A. County Jail awaiting extradition to Upson County... See the full story in the Nov. 5 edition of The Upson Beacon.
Upson Grand Jury Indicts 46
Atlanta Rapper Among Group Charged with RICO Violations
Sterling Pennix, AKA Atlanta Rapper Hoodrich Pablo Juan
Published 10-29-2020
Last week, 46 defendants were indicted by an Upson County Grand Jury on multiple charges including racketeering, based on gang activity throughout the state, including Upson, Spalding, and Fayette Counties, according to reports.
Among those charged with violation of the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) law are Travis Allan Goode, Shamune Deante Harris, Charles Bradford Martin, Kenneth Darnell Patterson, Sterling Leroy Pennix, Darron Lamar Stokes, Larris Donnie Sutton, Christopher Tyler Bennett, Xavier Lamar Carter, Tyree Dasean Crosland, Derrick Lavar Ferguson, Robert Freeman, Juan Manuel Gomez-Penaloza, Winston Deon Porter, Christopher Jacori Roger, Damarion Quadavris Sinkfield, Anthony Smith, Maurice Kentrell Stewart, Asia Larie Thompson, Jason Velasquez, Myrrin Kendrell Watson, and Samuel Assefa Workeneh.
Details of the ongoing investigation were not released prior to press time.
When made available, The Upson Beacon will publish additional information on the case in the newspaper and online at upsonbeacon.com.
Last week, 46 defendants were indicted by an Upson County Grand Jury on multiple charges including racketeering, based on gang activity throughout the state, including Upson, Spalding, and Fayette Counties, according to reports.
Among those charged with violation of the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) law are Travis Allan Goode, Shamune Deante Harris, Charles Bradford Martin, Kenneth Darnell Patterson, Sterling Leroy Pennix, Darron Lamar Stokes, Larris Donnie Sutton, Christopher Tyler Bennett, Xavier Lamar Carter, Tyree Dasean Crosland, Derrick Lavar Ferguson, Robert Freeman, Juan Manuel Gomez-Penaloza, Winston Deon Porter, Christopher Jacori Roger, Damarion Quadavris Sinkfield, Anthony Smith, Maurice Kentrell Stewart, Asia Larie Thompson, Jason Velasquez, Myrrin Kendrell Watson, and Samuel Assefa Workeneh.
Details of the ongoing investigation were not released prior to press time.
When made available, The Upson Beacon will publish additional information on the case in the newspaper and online at upsonbeacon.com.
Council Presses Pause on
Convenience Store Approvals
Published 10-29-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Thomaston City Council members voted unanimously last week to impose a six-month moratorium on the acceptance of applications for permits, licenses, or inspections related to the development of convenience stores locally.
City Manager Russell Thompson said the hiatus will provide an opportunity for his staff to streamline zoning ordinances and examine regulations on gaming machines. “This is not a banishment or prohibition, just a six-month pause where we don’t accept permits or applications,” he explained.
Council members discussed similar consideration for other businesses including storage facilities, vape and tobacco shops, and dollar stores.
“[Thompson] and I have talked about how the downtown area is saturated with certain types of businesses. We want to make sure [the area] is appealing,” said City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler, who penned the ordinance establishing a moratorium. “We want to make sure we are servicing the safety, welfare, and interest of our citizens. That’s what this is about.”
The document defines convenience stores as “any business that is primarily engaged in the retail sale of convenience goods (limited household goods, snacks, and groceries), or both convenience goods and gasoline, and has less than 10,000 square feet of retail floor space.”
“It is both necessary and in the public interest to delay, for a reasonable period of time, the processing of any applications to ensure that the design, development, and location of [convenience stores]are consistent with the long-term planning objectives of the city,” the ordinance states.
The document adds that the process will be “reasonable and not unduly oppressive,” and will not affect projects previously approved.
“This moratorium shall have no effect upon approvals or permits previously approved by the city,” it reads. “This ordinance shall not affect the issuance of permits or site plan reviews that have received preliminary or final approval by the city on or before the effective date.”
The ordinance also provides a means of appeal.
“Any party with an ownership interest in property in the city that believes said property owner is severely prejudiced by this moratorium may file a written application, including verified supporting data, documents and facts, with the city manager… requesting that the mayor and council remove the moratorium as it applies to the property of the applicant,” it states.
Council is scheduled to consider amendments to and possible expansion of the moratorium at its Nov. 3 meeting.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Thomaston City Council members voted unanimously last week to impose a six-month moratorium on the acceptance of applications for permits, licenses, or inspections related to the development of convenience stores locally.
City Manager Russell Thompson said the hiatus will provide an opportunity for his staff to streamline zoning ordinances and examine regulations on gaming machines. “This is not a banishment or prohibition, just a six-month pause where we don’t accept permits or applications,” he explained.
Council members discussed similar consideration for other businesses including storage facilities, vape and tobacco shops, and dollar stores.
“[Thompson] and I have talked about how the downtown area is saturated with certain types of businesses. We want to make sure [the area] is appealing,” said City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler, who penned the ordinance establishing a moratorium. “We want to make sure we are servicing the safety, welfare, and interest of our citizens. That’s what this is about.”
The document defines convenience stores as “any business that is primarily engaged in the retail sale of convenience goods (limited household goods, snacks, and groceries), or both convenience goods and gasoline, and has less than 10,000 square feet of retail floor space.”
“It is both necessary and in the public interest to delay, for a reasonable period of time, the processing of any applications to ensure that the design, development, and location of [convenience stores]are consistent with the long-term planning objectives of the city,” the ordinance states.
The document adds that the process will be “reasonable and not unduly oppressive,” and will not affect projects previously approved.
“This moratorium shall have no effect upon approvals or permits previously approved by the city,” it reads. “This ordinance shall not affect the issuance of permits or site plan reviews that have received preliminary or final approval by the city on or before the effective date.”
The ordinance also provides a means of appeal.
“Any party with an ownership interest in property in the city that believes said property owner is severely prejudiced by this moratorium may file a written application, including verified supporting data, documents and facts, with the city manager… requesting that the mayor and council remove the moratorium as it applies to the property of the applicant,” it states.
Council is scheduled to consider amendments to and possible expansion of the moratorium at its Nov. 3 meeting.
City Considers Canceling Christmas… Parade
Photo from the 2019 Christmas
Lights Parade by Ellen Tew.
Published 10-29-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Citing public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Thomaston City Council are considering canceling the annual Christmas parade.
“It’s a tough call,” City Manager Russell Thompson told council members during a meeting last week. “Everybody wants to return to some level of normalcy. They want to have traditional things. They want to have Christmas.
“But at the same time, you want to be mindful of the pandemic,” he continued. “We certainly don’t want to hold an event that would cause someone to be sick.”
Thompson said he consulted with Sherry Farr, Department of Public Health District 4 nurse manager for Upson and Lamar Counties, who said, “Based on current guidelines… our advice is not to have a parade.”
Jeff Tarrant, chief executive officer of Upson Regional Medical Center, agreed that it would be wise to err on the side of caution, according to Thompson.
Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson told council members their decision should be dictated by Gov. Brian Kemp’s executive order extending Georgia’s health state of emergency.
“I don’t think you can make a decision until the governor’s order expires,” Richardson said. “Technically, you can’t have a gathering of more than 50 people, and ‘technically’ the sheriff and I are supposed to enforce it.”
Richardson said Halloween on R Street will be business as usual from his department’s standpoint. The Silvertown street is converted to one-way for vehicles and officers are posted for traffic control, creating a safe environment for trick-or-treaters each year.
Council members agreed to revisit whether to plan a Christmas parade at their next meeting Nov. 3. Kemp’s executive order extension will not end until mid-November, and could be renewed.
In other business, council voted unanimously to authorize a $36,430 expenditure for new roofs on four Thomaston Housing Authority units and approved an ordinance adjusting speed limits on several streets in school zones. The city plans to install video equipment to monitor activity in and near local school zones.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Citing public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Thomaston City Council are considering canceling the annual Christmas parade.
“It’s a tough call,” City Manager Russell Thompson told council members during a meeting last week. “Everybody wants to return to some level of normalcy. They want to have traditional things. They want to have Christmas.
“But at the same time, you want to be mindful of the pandemic,” he continued. “We certainly don’t want to hold an event that would cause someone to be sick.”
Thompson said he consulted with Sherry Farr, Department of Public Health District 4 nurse manager for Upson and Lamar Counties, who said, “Based on current guidelines… our advice is not to have a parade.”
Jeff Tarrant, chief executive officer of Upson Regional Medical Center, agreed that it would be wise to err on the side of caution, according to Thompson.
Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson told council members their decision should be dictated by Gov. Brian Kemp’s executive order extending Georgia’s health state of emergency.
“I don’t think you can make a decision until the governor’s order expires,” Richardson said. “Technically, you can’t have a gathering of more than 50 people, and ‘technically’ the sheriff and I are supposed to enforce it.”
Richardson said Halloween on R Street will be business as usual from his department’s standpoint. The Silvertown street is converted to one-way for vehicles and officers are posted for traffic control, creating a safe environment for trick-or-treaters each year.
Council members agreed to revisit whether to plan a Christmas parade at their next meeting Nov. 3. Kemp’s executive order extension will not end until mid-November, and could be renewed.
In other business, council voted unanimously to authorize a $36,430 expenditure for new roofs on four Thomaston Housing Authority units and approved an ordinance adjusting speed limits on several streets in school zones. The city plans to install video equipment to monitor activity in and near local school zones.
Arnold and Brewton Honored at 32nd Arbor Day Celebration
Published 10-22-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Two “Bloodgood” Japanese maple trees were planted aside the Blue Star Marker in Greatest Generation Memorial Park in memory of former mayors Hays Arnold, Jr. and Dr. Samuel Brewton, who were honored Oct. 14 at the Thomaston Tree Board’s celebration of 32 years as a USA Tree City.
Board member Jane Burdette led the event and Mayor J.D. Stallings read and signed the following proclamation:
“We attend this ceremony today in recognition that trees are an important element of our community and provide benefits to us throughout the year,
“We recognize that the Thomaston Tree Board encourages all citizens to plant and care for trees in our community,
“We proclaim that planting a tree is a significant event, but continuous proper care of that tree determines the extent to which these benefits are received,
“We dedicate and plant two Japanese Maple “Bloodgood” [trees] in memory of former Mayor Hays Arnold and former Mayor Dr. Samuel Brewton at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park as a living legacy to future generations,
“We celebrate our 32nd year for being a Certified Tree City USA,
“Therefore, I, J.D. Stallings, Mayor of Thomaston, declare Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020, as a celebration of Arbor Day to recognize the importance of trees to our community and the significance of our care of trees for future generations.”
Georgia Forestry Commission representatives Tyler Mameli and Vincent Artese presented the Arbor Day flag at the event.
Burdette recognized the Green Thumb Garden Club and the Spade & Trowel Garden Club for donations to the Arbor Day celebration.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Two “Bloodgood” Japanese maple trees were planted aside the Blue Star Marker in Greatest Generation Memorial Park in memory of former mayors Hays Arnold, Jr. and Dr. Samuel Brewton, who were honored Oct. 14 at the Thomaston Tree Board’s celebration of 32 years as a USA Tree City.
Board member Jane Burdette led the event and Mayor J.D. Stallings read and signed the following proclamation:
“We attend this ceremony today in recognition that trees are an important element of our community and provide benefits to us throughout the year,
“We recognize that the Thomaston Tree Board encourages all citizens to plant and care for trees in our community,
“We proclaim that planting a tree is a significant event, but continuous proper care of that tree determines the extent to which these benefits are received,
“We dedicate and plant two Japanese Maple “Bloodgood” [trees] in memory of former Mayor Hays Arnold and former Mayor Dr. Samuel Brewton at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park as a living legacy to future generations,
“We celebrate our 32nd year for being a Certified Tree City USA,
“Therefore, I, J.D. Stallings, Mayor of Thomaston, declare Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020, as a celebration of Arbor Day to recognize the importance of trees to our community and the significance of our care of trees for future generations.”
Georgia Forestry Commission representatives Tyler Mameli and Vincent Artese presented the Arbor Day flag at the event.
Burdette recognized the Green Thumb Garden Club and the Spade & Trowel Garden Club for donations to the Arbor Day celebration.
County OKs SPLOST funds for Overlook Deck at Bluff
There likely will be no clock tower atop the courthouse from the end of February through June 2021, according to County Manager Jason Tinsley. Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 10-22-2020
Upson County commissioners voted unanimously last week to approve special purpose local option sales tax funds to refurbish the Sprewell Bluff Park overlook deck, which has been closed to the public.
The vote authorized repairs not to exceed $8,000.
Commissioners also approved SPLOST funds not to exceed $6,000 for the purchase of desktop computers for county employees.
Board members voted unanimously to deny a request from Margie McDaniel of Thomaston for a special exception to relocate her convenience store and river rental business from the Talbot County side to the Upson side of Flint River on Highway 36 West.
Planning commissioners previously expressed concerns with environmental impact and architectural design when recommending denial of the application for 27 acres at 4429 Woodland Road. McDaniel’s daughter was one of two residents who spoke in opposition to the request.
Commission chairman Norman Allen told McDaniel she could re-apply when architectural plans and environmental impact information were provided for consideration by the board.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve an “after the fact” request from Stephanie C. and Kevin J. Fowler of Thomaston for a special exception, temporary residence in a recreational vehicle, while the couple completes construction of a new home.
The planning commission previously recommended approval of the application affecting a 10-acre tract at 500 Baker Britt Road. Stephanie told commissioners that her husband has been deployed in military-related service, which has delayed the construction project.
County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners that work on the courthouse will commence soon and will continue through the holiday season. There likely will be no clock tower atop the courthouse from the end of February through June 2021, he said.
Upson County commissioners voted unanimously last week to approve special purpose local option sales tax funds to refurbish the Sprewell Bluff Park overlook deck, which has been closed to the public.
The vote authorized repairs not to exceed $8,000.
Commissioners also approved SPLOST funds not to exceed $6,000 for the purchase of desktop computers for county employees.
Board members voted unanimously to deny a request from Margie McDaniel of Thomaston for a special exception to relocate her convenience store and river rental business from the Talbot County side to the Upson side of Flint River on Highway 36 West.
Planning commissioners previously expressed concerns with environmental impact and architectural design when recommending denial of the application for 27 acres at 4429 Woodland Road. McDaniel’s daughter was one of two residents who spoke in opposition to the request.
Commission chairman Norman Allen told McDaniel she could re-apply when architectural plans and environmental impact information were provided for consideration by the board.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve an “after the fact” request from Stephanie C. and Kevin J. Fowler of Thomaston for a special exception, temporary residence in a recreational vehicle, while the couple completes construction of a new home.
The planning commission previously recommended approval of the application affecting a 10-acre tract at 500 Baker Britt Road. Stephanie told commissioners that her husband has been deployed in military-related service, which has delayed the construction project.
County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners that work on the courthouse will commence soon and will continue through the holiday season. There likely will be no clock tower atop the courthouse from the end of February through June 2021, he said.
Co-Mr. and Miss
Upson-Lee Announced
First Tie for Mr. Upson-Lee in UL History
Published 10-22-2020
For the first time in Upson Lee history, there was a tie for Mr. Upson Lee. John Wesley Bentley II and Maddox Franklin Jackson tied for the Class of 2021 Mr. Upson Lee, and Kimari Mashanti Sullivan was voted the Class of 2021 Miss Upson Lee.
Class of 2021 Senior Favorite girls include: Zykia Buffin, Zaria Childs, Jessica Fernandez, McKenzie Fry, Ty’Keria Geiger, Di’Ziarria Lemons, Tatum Michael, Alonzea Montgomery, Emma Kate Peoples, and Kimari Sullivan.
Class of 2021 Senior Favorite boys include: Javon Barron, John Wesley Bentley II, Brooks Gulley, Maddox Jackson, Brendarious Jones, Trey Kelly, Carson Lawson, Miller Patterson, Jy’Kevious Searcy, Logan Spivey, and Jedidiah Weatherford.
For the first time in Upson Lee history, there was a tie for Mr. Upson Lee. John Wesley Bentley II and Maddox Franklin Jackson tied for the Class of 2021 Mr. Upson Lee, and Kimari Mashanti Sullivan was voted the Class of 2021 Miss Upson Lee.
Class of 2021 Senior Favorite girls include: Zykia Buffin, Zaria Childs, Jessica Fernandez, McKenzie Fry, Ty’Keria Geiger, Di’Ziarria Lemons, Tatum Michael, Alonzea Montgomery, Emma Kate Peoples, and Kimari Sullivan.
Class of 2021 Senior Favorite boys include: Javon Barron, John Wesley Bentley II, Brooks Gulley, Maddox Jackson, Brendarious Jones, Trey Kelly, Carson Lawson, Miller Patterson, Jy’Kevious Searcy, Logan Spivey, and Jedidiah Weatherford.
Planning Commission Approves 2 Applications
Published 10-22-2020
The Upson County Planning Commission voted last week to recommend approval of requests involving property on Roland Road and East County Road.
An application from Cahaba Shoals, LLC for preliminary plat approval of 13 lots on approximately 226 acres on Roland Road was conditionally approved by commissioners. The decision included a waiver for private road access.
The commission also approved an application from Roland Hockenhull for rezoning of one acre at 420 East County Road from A-R (agricultural-residential) to C-2 (commercial).
Recommendations will be forwarded to the Upson County Board of Commissioners for final decisions.
Planning commissioners continue to study a gateway ordinance, tiny homes ordinance, and height regulations for amateur radio towers.
The Upson County Planning Commission voted last week to recommend approval of requests involving property on Roland Road and East County Road.
An application from Cahaba Shoals, LLC for preliminary plat approval of 13 lots on approximately 226 acres on Roland Road was conditionally approved by commissioners. The decision included a waiver for private road access.
The commission also approved an application from Roland Hockenhull for rezoning of one acre at 420 East County Road from A-R (agricultural-residential) to C-2 (commercial).
Recommendations will be forwarded to the Upson County Board of Commissioners for final decisions.
Planning commissioners continue to study a gateway ordinance, tiny homes ordinance, and height regulations for amateur radio towers.
City Awards $2.285 Million Bid for New Fire Station
Council Approves $987,600 Contract for
TSPLOST Paving Project
Rendering of the southeast view of the proposed new fire department.
Published 10-15-2020
The Thomaston City Council voted last week to award a $2.285 million bid to McWright, LLC general contractors of Bonaire for the construction of Thomaston’s new fire station.
Location of the new facility is planned for city-owned property currently home to the pardons and paroles office, south of West Central Georgia Bank on North Church Street. Construction start date is pending
Council members also voted to award a $987,642 paving bid to Quality Construction by McLeRoy, Inc. of Zebulon for road work to be funded by proceeds from the 2020 transportation special purpose local option sales tax.
Included on the priority list are Triune Mill Road, East Lee Street, Hannah’s Mill Road, Holstun Drive, North Bethel Street, Peerless Road, Goodrich Avenue East, Georgia Avenue, South Main Street, Poplar Drive, East Thompson Street, and North Hightower Street.
Council approved authorization to execute a license agreement which would enable use of a $150,000 demolition bond currently held by the city for “nuisance abatement” of property at 325 Goodrich Avenue. The forfeited bond will be used to remove debris and clean the site pending legal confirmation, according to city officials.
Members approved a $13,690 expense which includes $12,800 in labor fees to WLA Studio to design a memorial at Greatest Generation Memorial Park. A donation from Community Enterprises will be used for the project.
The council enacted an amendment to the city’s personnel policy which will increase the distance a city vehicle is allowed to be driven from 35 to 50 miles from the city limits of Thomaston. The change will assist in recruitment of officers for the Thomaston Police Department, according to local officials.
Council members approved an $11,575 year-end settlement from Electric Cities of Georgia to be reimbursed to Thomaston for 2020.
In other business, Kay Dunaway was appointed to the Thomaston Tree Board and council directed City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler to draft an ordinance for a moratorium on gas stations and convenience stores. From a zoning perspective, city officials have voiced concern about the increasing number of convenience stores, particularly those housing gaming machines, being established in the community.
The Thomaston City Council voted last week to award a $2.285 million bid to McWright, LLC general contractors of Bonaire for the construction of Thomaston’s new fire station.
Location of the new facility is planned for city-owned property currently home to the pardons and paroles office, south of West Central Georgia Bank on North Church Street. Construction start date is pending
Council members also voted to award a $987,642 paving bid to Quality Construction by McLeRoy, Inc. of Zebulon for road work to be funded by proceeds from the 2020 transportation special purpose local option sales tax.
Included on the priority list are Triune Mill Road, East Lee Street, Hannah’s Mill Road, Holstun Drive, North Bethel Street, Peerless Road, Goodrich Avenue East, Georgia Avenue, South Main Street, Poplar Drive, East Thompson Street, and North Hightower Street.
Council approved authorization to execute a license agreement which would enable use of a $150,000 demolition bond currently held by the city for “nuisance abatement” of property at 325 Goodrich Avenue. The forfeited bond will be used to remove debris and clean the site pending legal confirmation, according to city officials.
Members approved a $13,690 expense which includes $12,800 in labor fees to WLA Studio to design a memorial at Greatest Generation Memorial Park. A donation from Community Enterprises will be used for the project.
The council enacted an amendment to the city’s personnel policy which will increase the distance a city vehicle is allowed to be driven from 35 to 50 miles from the city limits of Thomaston. The change will assist in recruitment of officers for the Thomaston Police Department, according to local officials.
Council members approved an $11,575 year-end settlement from Electric Cities of Georgia to be reimbursed to Thomaston for 2020.
In other business, Kay Dunaway was appointed to the Thomaston Tree Board and council directed City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler to draft an ordinance for a moratorium on gas stations and convenience stores. From a zoning perspective, city officials have voiced concern about the increasing number of convenience stores, particularly those housing gaming machines, being established in the community.
County Updates Role of Sprewell Bluff Committee
Published 10-15-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Commissioners updated bylaws governing the Sprewell Bluff Advisory Committee during a work session last week, with an eye on future development of the park.
The goal, according to commission chairman Norman Allen, is to promote economic activity through tourism while preserving the natural integrity of the 90-plus acre park for area residents’ continued enjoyment.
“We all recognize what a treasure the bluff is… We’re committed to maintaining that as much as possible, but we also understand that it is an economic development tourism draw to our community,” Allen said. “There are things we can do to protect the bluff and, at the same time, bring folks in and let them enjoy it too.”
Along with members of the advisory committee, commissioners updated bylaws of the group, which included trimming the number of members from the teens to seven and setting two-year, staggered terms for appointees. Finance and management responsibilities regarding the park were removed from the committee, which now will report quarterly directly to the board.
Four advisory members – Nash Austin, Jennifer Rogers, Neal Trice, and Sam Baity – attended the work session, joined by recreation director Mindy Daniel and park coordinator Sarah Williams. All voiced support for promoting tourism.
“We feel like the community, as a whole, would love to see it be a source of economic development and tourism,” Austin told commissioners. “The Georgia tourism study… 60 percent of the report was on the bluff.”
Austin then referred to the Heart & Soul study, which collected more than 3,000 community responses.
“Four of the top 20 [collective] comments involved the bluff,” he said of the study, which was conducted by Heart & Soul director Rogers. “We feel like the public has spoken.”
A recent study by Sports Strategies questioned the return on investment of extensive development at the park, but Trice suggested starting with upgrades more easily accomplished.
“Many things are simple,” Trice said. “Like primitive camping, platform camping, and mountain biking.” He added that tourism has been a crucial part of the local economy.
“In 2016, $26.14 million was spent in tourism in Upson County. Without tourism, there would be a negative impact on each household of $175 per year,” Trice stated. “To me, [Sprewell Bluff Park] is one of the biggest draws you’ve got.”
Among immediate needs are upgraded bathroom facilities, a pavilion, and more camping availability, particularly recreational vehicle pads, Austin said. According to Williams, campsites frequently are booked to capacity.
“This is a far cry from the ‘amusement park’ people assumed we were trying to do,” Rogers added.
A master plan for the bluff included outdoor classrooms, zip lines, an amphitheater, and a suspension bridge across Flint River. Baity defended the need for a bridge.
“At some point I’d like to see a connection bridge – whatever that looks like, suspension or otherwise – from the park to the other side [of the river] so there’s easy access to the rest of the wildlife management area,” Baity explained.
One source of concern voiced by commissioners is a lease agreement between the county and the Department of Natural Resources which prohibits certain improvements and development of the property. Terms of the lease would require renegotiation among Allen, County Manager Jason Tinsley, and DNR officials.
“I don’t think the lease is an obstacle,” Tinsley said.
Commissioners and advisory committee members agreed to prioritize enhanced facilities, overflow parking, and the addition of RV pads while formulating a revised plan for the park.
Committee members not in attendance at the work session are Richard Hickmon, Jess Rogers, and Katie Salter.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Commissioners updated bylaws governing the Sprewell Bluff Advisory Committee during a work session last week, with an eye on future development of the park.
The goal, according to commission chairman Norman Allen, is to promote economic activity through tourism while preserving the natural integrity of the 90-plus acre park for area residents’ continued enjoyment.
“We all recognize what a treasure the bluff is… We’re committed to maintaining that as much as possible, but we also understand that it is an economic development tourism draw to our community,” Allen said. “There are things we can do to protect the bluff and, at the same time, bring folks in and let them enjoy it too.”
Along with members of the advisory committee, commissioners updated bylaws of the group, which included trimming the number of members from the teens to seven and setting two-year, staggered terms for appointees. Finance and management responsibilities regarding the park were removed from the committee, which now will report quarterly directly to the board.
Four advisory members – Nash Austin, Jennifer Rogers, Neal Trice, and Sam Baity – attended the work session, joined by recreation director Mindy Daniel and park coordinator Sarah Williams. All voiced support for promoting tourism.
“We feel like the community, as a whole, would love to see it be a source of economic development and tourism,” Austin told commissioners. “The Georgia tourism study… 60 percent of the report was on the bluff.”
Austin then referred to the Heart & Soul study, which collected more than 3,000 community responses.
“Four of the top 20 [collective] comments involved the bluff,” he said of the study, which was conducted by Heart & Soul director Rogers. “We feel like the public has spoken.”
A recent study by Sports Strategies questioned the return on investment of extensive development at the park, but Trice suggested starting with upgrades more easily accomplished.
“Many things are simple,” Trice said. “Like primitive camping, platform camping, and mountain biking.” He added that tourism has been a crucial part of the local economy.
“In 2016, $26.14 million was spent in tourism in Upson County. Without tourism, there would be a negative impact on each household of $175 per year,” Trice stated. “To me, [Sprewell Bluff Park] is one of the biggest draws you’ve got.”
Among immediate needs are upgraded bathroom facilities, a pavilion, and more camping availability, particularly recreational vehicle pads, Austin said. According to Williams, campsites frequently are booked to capacity.
“This is a far cry from the ‘amusement park’ people assumed we were trying to do,” Rogers added.
A master plan for the bluff included outdoor classrooms, zip lines, an amphitheater, and a suspension bridge across Flint River. Baity defended the need for a bridge.
“At some point I’d like to see a connection bridge – whatever that looks like, suspension or otherwise – from the park to the other side [of the river] so there’s easy access to the rest of the wildlife management area,” Baity explained.
One source of concern voiced by commissioners is a lease agreement between the county and the Department of Natural Resources which prohibits certain improvements and development of the property. Terms of the lease would require renegotiation among Allen, County Manager Jason Tinsley, and DNR officials.
“I don’t think the lease is an obstacle,” Tinsley said.
Commissioners and advisory committee members agreed to prioritize enhanced facilities, overflow parking, and the addition of RV pads while formulating a revised plan for the park.
Committee members not in attendance at the work session are Richard Hickmon, Jess Rogers, and Katie Salter.
GDOT Study: Local Airport’s
Economic Impact $22 Million
Published 10-15-2020
The Thomaston-Upson County Airport generates $16.7 million in spending yearly and has an annual economic impact of more than $22.6 million, according to a Georgia Department of Transportation report.
GDOT’s report, based on a study of 102 state airports – seven commercial and 95 general aviation – was conducted in summer 2019. It documented ways in which airports generate positive economic impacts and support other sectors of local and state economies.
The local facility, owned and operated by the Thomaston-Upson County Airport authority, supports the employment of 183 workers with an annual payroll of almost $5.9 million. More than 6,900 visitors pass through the airport yearly, and its existence creates annual state and local sales and income tax revenues in excess of $919,500.
“Residents, businesses, and visitors benefit from the state’s well-developed airport system,” according to the report. “While supporting transportation, healthcare, tourism, and commerce, airports contribute to the economy.”
Visitors alone spend more than $690,000 a year, creating an economic impact of $1.1 million.
Flights from Upson County have traveled as far west as the California coast, as far north as Montana, east to Connecticut and south to the tip of Florida. The top five destinations out of the local airport are Albemarle, N.C., Tifton, Atlanta, Pinehurst (Southern Pines), N.C. and Athens, home of the University of Georgia Bulldogs.
The airport, located five miles northeast of Thomaston on Delray Road, opened in 1994 and features one paved runway which is 6,350 feet long.
“There is a good chance you benefit from different activities that the airport supports,” the report states. “Airports support healthcare and emergency services, support the state’s agricultural and forestry industries, and power companies rely on airports to keep electricity flowing. State and federal agencies use airports to protect the environment, and law enforcement benefits from airports. Businesses throughout Georgia rely on airports to improve their efficiency.”
When all Georgia airports are considered, total annual statewide economic impacts are estimated at 450,500 jobs, $9.2 billion in annual payroll, and $73.7 billion in annual economic activity.
“When employers seek to relocate or expand, proximity to an airport is among the top 10 factors they consider in their decision making,” the report concluded. “A flight from a Georgia airport is a gateway to over 40,000 worldwide airports, including more than 19,000 airports in the United States alone.”
The Thomaston-Upson County Airport generates $16.7 million in spending yearly and has an annual economic impact of more than $22.6 million, according to a Georgia Department of Transportation report.
GDOT’s report, based on a study of 102 state airports – seven commercial and 95 general aviation – was conducted in summer 2019. It documented ways in which airports generate positive economic impacts and support other sectors of local and state economies.
The local facility, owned and operated by the Thomaston-Upson County Airport authority, supports the employment of 183 workers with an annual payroll of almost $5.9 million. More than 6,900 visitors pass through the airport yearly, and its existence creates annual state and local sales and income tax revenues in excess of $919,500.
“Residents, businesses, and visitors benefit from the state’s well-developed airport system,” according to the report. “While supporting transportation, healthcare, tourism, and commerce, airports contribute to the economy.”
Visitors alone spend more than $690,000 a year, creating an economic impact of $1.1 million.
Flights from Upson County have traveled as far west as the California coast, as far north as Montana, east to Connecticut and south to the tip of Florida. The top five destinations out of the local airport are Albemarle, N.C., Tifton, Atlanta, Pinehurst (Southern Pines), N.C. and Athens, home of the University of Georgia Bulldogs.
The airport, located five miles northeast of Thomaston on Delray Road, opened in 1994 and features one paved runway which is 6,350 feet long.
“There is a good chance you benefit from different activities that the airport supports,” the report states. “Airports support healthcare and emergency services, support the state’s agricultural and forestry industries, and power companies rely on airports to keep electricity flowing. State and federal agencies use airports to protect the environment, and law enforcement benefits from airports. Businesses throughout Georgia rely on airports to improve their efficiency.”
When all Georgia airports are considered, total annual statewide economic impacts are estimated at 450,500 jobs, $9.2 billion in annual payroll, and $73.7 billion in annual economic activity.
“When employers seek to relocate or expand, proximity to an airport is among the top 10 factors they consider in their decision making,” the report concluded. “A flight from a Georgia airport is a gateway to over 40,000 worldwide airports, including more than 19,000 airports in the United States alone.”
Silvertown Being Considered for National Register
Published 10-15-2020
The City of Thomaston has received official notification that the Silvertown Historic District is proposed for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.
Nomination will be considered by the Georgia National Register Review Board during a virtual meeting at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 6, according to a letter from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. The meeting agenda will be available online at www.georgiashpo.org.
Listing in the National Register results in recognition of architectural and historical significance, confirming that a property is worthy of preservation. It also provides planning consideration, eligibility for federal tax benefits, eligibility for grant assistance, and technical assistance from the Historic Preservation Division.
Entry in the National Register does not place any obligations or legal restrictions on the use of disposition of private property, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
“National Register designation is not the same as historic district zoning or local landmark designation,” the letter states. “…listing does not encourage public access to property or lead to public acquisition of property.”
Considered property includes approximately 407 acres along both sides of Highway 19 North, “roughly bounded by O Street and S Street to the west; R Street, Deluxe Circle, and E Street to the north; B Street and A Street to the east; and 4th Avenue, Goodrich Avenue, and 3rd Avenue to the south in Thomaston,” the letter continues. “…the intact, contiguous, historic resources associated with the development of Martha Mills and the associated planned mill village of Silvertown.”
The “period of significance” is 1926 to 1958.
Silvertown’s historic district is being nominated at state and local levels of significance as “a good and intact example of a planned industrial town typically found in Georgia, representative of the work of Robert and Co., Earle Sumner Draper, and Robert Edgar Hightower, Sr.,” the notification reads.
Nomination was sponsored by Thomaston Upson Landmark Legacy, the Silvertown Historic Preservation Project, the West Village Association, and the Upson Historical Society. WLA Studio, recently retained by the city to design a memorial at Greatest Generation Park, prepared nomination materials.
The City of Thomaston has received official notification that the Silvertown Historic District is proposed for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.
Nomination will be considered by the Georgia National Register Review Board during a virtual meeting at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 6, according to a letter from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. The meeting agenda will be available online at www.georgiashpo.org.
Listing in the National Register results in recognition of architectural and historical significance, confirming that a property is worthy of preservation. It also provides planning consideration, eligibility for federal tax benefits, eligibility for grant assistance, and technical assistance from the Historic Preservation Division.
Entry in the National Register does not place any obligations or legal restrictions on the use of disposition of private property, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
“National Register designation is not the same as historic district zoning or local landmark designation,” the letter states. “…listing does not encourage public access to property or lead to public acquisition of property.”
Considered property includes approximately 407 acres along both sides of Highway 19 North, “roughly bounded by O Street and S Street to the west; R Street, Deluxe Circle, and E Street to the north; B Street and A Street to the east; and 4th Avenue, Goodrich Avenue, and 3rd Avenue to the south in Thomaston,” the letter continues. “…the intact, contiguous, historic resources associated with the development of Martha Mills and the associated planned mill village of Silvertown.”
The “period of significance” is 1926 to 1958.
Silvertown’s historic district is being nominated at state and local levels of significance as “a good and intact example of a planned industrial town typically found in Georgia, representative of the work of Robert and Co., Earle Sumner Draper, and Robert Edgar Hightower, Sr.,” the notification reads.
Nomination was sponsored by Thomaston Upson Landmark Legacy, the Silvertown Historic Preservation Project, the West Village Association, and the Upson Historical Society. WLA Studio, recently retained by the city to design a memorial at Greatest Generation Park, prepared nomination materials.
IDA to Incentivize Holiday Inn Express Northside Location
$250k on Table for $10.3 Million Investment
Published 10-8-2020
The Thomaston-Upson County Industrial Development Authority voted last week to offer $250,000 in incentives for location of a Holiday Inn Express hotel on the Highway 19 corridor, just north of the recently constructed Chick-fil-A restaurant.
Charles Gilbert and Dee McLeRoy of McLeRoy Realty in Pike County requested incentives for construction of the hotel, which is projected to offer 75 to 80 rooms, a small conference area, breakfast area, and a swimming pool. An agreement outlining terms of payout of the incentives is being drafted by IDA Attorney Johnnie Caldwell, Jr.
“A business class hotel is desperately needed in our community. Industries and residents often send clients and visitors out of town for lodging,” IDA Executive Kyle Fletcher said. “McLeRoy is currently in the due diligence phase of this project and we are hopeful everything works out to locate the hotel here.”
Capital investment for the project is estimated at $10.3 million, with potential creation of eight to 10 local jobs.
The board also set a price of $5,000 per acre for 10 to 15 acres in the Thomaston-Upson Industrial Park for Meriwether Ready Mix concrete company, which is considering construction of a local plant, according to a company representative.
“The IDA recognizes the need to have a concrete company in Thomaston,” Fletcher explained, “since trucks are currently having to drive from Meriwether County or Griffin.”
Prior to land acquisition, Meriwether Ready Mix will be required to address water provision and wastewater treatment availability with City of Thomaston officials, Fletcher added.
There also may be a change of plan for development of the Central Georgia Business & Technology Park, according to Fletcher’s September director’s report.
Mike Grella of Grella Partnerships, business development consultant recently hired by the county, told IDA members that the EDA CARES Act Grant originally sought by the group has been oversubscribed. The board now will pursue an EDA Public Works grant for $2 million with a 50 percent local match.
A large portion of proposed spending to prepare pad-ready sites in the park was planned for grading, but Dayne Pryor of Panattoni Development said grading is not necessary in this stage of the project.
The Thomaston-Upson County Industrial Development Authority voted last week to offer $250,000 in incentives for location of a Holiday Inn Express hotel on the Highway 19 corridor, just north of the recently constructed Chick-fil-A restaurant.
Charles Gilbert and Dee McLeRoy of McLeRoy Realty in Pike County requested incentives for construction of the hotel, which is projected to offer 75 to 80 rooms, a small conference area, breakfast area, and a swimming pool. An agreement outlining terms of payout of the incentives is being drafted by IDA Attorney Johnnie Caldwell, Jr.
“A business class hotel is desperately needed in our community. Industries and residents often send clients and visitors out of town for lodging,” IDA Executive Kyle Fletcher said. “McLeRoy is currently in the due diligence phase of this project and we are hopeful everything works out to locate the hotel here.”
Capital investment for the project is estimated at $10.3 million, with potential creation of eight to 10 local jobs.
The board also set a price of $5,000 per acre for 10 to 15 acres in the Thomaston-Upson Industrial Park for Meriwether Ready Mix concrete company, which is considering construction of a local plant, according to a company representative.
“The IDA recognizes the need to have a concrete company in Thomaston,” Fletcher explained, “since trucks are currently having to drive from Meriwether County or Griffin.”
Prior to land acquisition, Meriwether Ready Mix will be required to address water provision and wastewater treatment availability with City of Thomaston officials, Fletcher added.
There also may be a change of plan for development of the Central Georgia Business & Technology Park, according to Fletcher’s September director’s report.
Mike Grella of Grella Partnerships, business development consultant recently hired by the county, told IDA members that the EDA CARES Act Grant originally sought by the group has been oversubscribed. The board now will pursue an EDA Public Works grant for $2 million with a 50 percent local match.
A large portion of proposed spending to prepare pad-ready sites in the park was planned for grading, but Dayne Pryor of Panattoni Development said grading is not necessary in this stage of the project.
Mayors Arnold, Brewton Will be Honored Oct. 14 at Arbor Day Celebration
Hayes Arnold Jr.
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Dr. Sam Brewton
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Published 10-8-2020
In memory of two prominent community public servants, former Mayor Hays Arnold and former Mayor Dr. Sam Brewton, the Thomaston Tree Board will host its annual Arbor Day Celebration at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 14 at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park.
The ceremony will be held near the Blue Star Marker at the park.
Two Japanese maples have been planted on either side of the Blue Star Marker in memory of the late mayors’ exemplary public service and their service to our country, according to a statement from city officials.
The Tree Board will be celebrating 32 years as a certified Tree City USA and extends a special invitation to the public to attend the Arbor Day Celebration.
For more information, please call the city manager's office at 706-647-4242.
In memory of two prominent community public servants, former Mayor Hays Arnold and former Mayor Dr. Sam Brewton, the Thomaston Tree Board will host its annual Arbor Day Celebration at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 14 at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park.
The ceremony will be held near the Blue Star Marker at the park.
Two Japanese maples have been planted on either side of the Blue Star Marker in memory of the late mayors’ exemplary public service and their service to our country, according to a statement from city officials.
The Tree Board will be celebrating 32 years as a certified Tree City USA and extends a special invitation to the public to attend the Arbor Day Celebration.
For more information, please call the city manager's office at 706-647-4242.
Sara Poteat Named to All-World Slowpitch Softball Team
Published 10-8-2020
Sara Poteat is a softball phenom and a Thomaston native. Last weekend, Poteat was a part of Team USA’s Slowpitch Softball squad that won the 2020 Women’s Major World Series in Oklahoma City, Okla.
"The past few days have been surreal. This is what we play for all year... To show up on the biggest stage and prove that we're the best team in the country. To do that three years in a row is incredible, and I'm so blessed to be a part of it," said Poteat.
The lefthander dominated the field and the batter’s box. She was seven-for-nine with five runs scored and two doubles over the course of three games. Her defense was highlighted with a diving over the shoulder snag in deep right field. The catch helped secure the victory for Team USA. Poteat’s outstanding performance earned her a selection onto the All-World Slowpitch Softball team.
Poteat has been a standout on every stage of competition. In high school, Poteat was the team captain at Upson-Lee starting her sophomore season. She was an all-region selection and set a single season stolen base record of 23 her senior year. After graduating from Upson-Lee, Poteat went on to play for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where she excelled. Poteat batted for an average over .300 for three straight years and left the collegiate level with the third most stolen bases in UTC history. Poteat now finds herself using her skills to help Team USA dominant the slowpitch softball trail.
"I just felt so honored and thankful to be surrounded by amazing teammates, coaches, and the greatest support system, including my family, friends, and hometown folks from T-town," commented Poteat. "My plan for the future is to keep working to become the best person I can be and trust that God will continue to lead me where he needs me."
Sara Poteat is a softball phenom and a Thomaston native. Last weekend, Poteat was a part of Team USA’s Slowpitch Softball squad that won the 2020 Women’s Major World Series in Oklahoma City, Okla.
"The past few days have been surreal. This is what we play for all year... To show up on the biggest stage and prove that we're the best team in the country. To do that three years in a row is incredible, and I'm so blessed to be a part of it," said Poteat.
The lefthander dominated the field and the batter’s box. She was seven-for-nine with five runs scored and two doubles over the course of three games. Her defense was highlighted with a diving over the shoulder snag in deep right field. The catch helped secure the victory for Team USA. Poteat’s outstanding performance earned her a selection onto the All-World Slowpitch Softball team.
Poteat has been a standout on every stage of competition. In high school, Poteat was the team captain at Upson-Lee starting her sophomore season. She was an all-region selection and set a single season stolen base record of 23 her senior year. After graduating from Upson-Lee, Poteat went on to play for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where she excelled. Poteat batted for an average over .300 for three straight years and left the collegiate level with the third most stolen bases in UTC history. Poteat now finds herself using her skills to help Team USA dominant the slowpitch softball trail.
"I just felt so honored and thankful to be surrounded by amazing teammates, coaches, and the greatest support system, including my family, friends, and hometown folks from T-town," commented Poteat. "My plan for the future is to keep working to become the best person I can be and trust that God will continue to lead me where he needs me."
Christmas Celebration Toy Drive
Published 10-8-2020
Come one, come all to help support the event. Bring a toy or stop to give a donation for the Annual Christmas Party for families of special needs children. The event will take place Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. until, and will take place in the Rite Aid parking lot across from the Greatest Generation Park. All help and donations are greatly appreciated. The event is coordinated by Vanessa Searcy.
Come one, come all to help support the event. Bring a toy or stop to give a donation for the Annual Christmas Party for families of special needs children. The event will take place Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. until, and will take place in the Rite Aid parking lot across from the Greatest Generation Park. All help and donations are greatly appreciated. The event is coordinated by Vanessa Searcy.
County Awards $5 Million Bid for Phase II Paving
Published 10-1-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County commissioners voted unanimously last week to award a $4.997 million bid to CW Matthews Contracting Company for Phase II of the county’s road resurfacing project.
The low bid was reviewed and recommended by county consultant EMC Engineering Services, and staff recommended surface treatment alternatives which will result in “significant savings,” according to County Manager Jason Tinsley.
“We look forward to getting it done,” Chairman Norman Allen said.
Surface treatment will be used on some roads instead of smooth asphalt because of its durability, according to county officials. A list of roads with dates of construction, along with tips for driving in work zones, will be released for the public’s convenience, Tinsley added.
Commissioner Paul Jones reminded residents that surface treatment would be used only on county roads which currently feature that process. “No [smooth] asphalt roads will be changed to surface treatment,” he assured.
Commissioners revisited a request from Mohammed Mohiuddin for a beer and wine license on behalf of Needs Grocery, located at 185 Moores Crossing Road, because opposing petitioners in the area reconsidered their position, according to Allen. The request, which failed with a 2-2 vote at the last meeting, passed 3-2 in its second attempt, with commissioners Jones and James Ellington in opposition.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a beer and wine license for Venkatshwa Reddy Guntunka on behalf of Gopal Trading Food Mart, located at 1998 Highway 19 North. The request was tabled at the last meeting because of proximity concerns, but Planning Director Doug Currier assured the board that church activities had not been held at the building in question for two years.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a request by John M. Maguire of Old Road Properties and David S. Maguire for revisions to the development plan for remnant lots in Hickory Ridge subdivision. The Upson County Planning Commission previously recommended approval of the request.
The board approved a consent agenda which included approval to extend the existing resolution for a public health state of emergency in Upson County and approval of a $25,000 agreement with financial advisor Davenport & Co. for assistance in bank account consolidation to “maximize investment and efficiency.”
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County commissioners voted unanimously last week to award a $4.997 million bid to CW Matthews Contracting Company for Phase II of the county’s road resurfacing project.
The low bid was reviewed and recommended by county consultant EMC Engineering Services, and staff recommended surface treatment alternatives which will result in “significant savings,” according to County Manager Jason Tinsley.
“We look forward to getting it done,” Chairman Norman Allen said.
Surface treatment will be used on some roads instead of smooth asphalt because of its durability, according to county officials. A list of roads with dates of construction, along with tips for driving in work zones, will be released for the public’s convenience, Tinsley added.
Commissioner Paul Jones reminded residents that surface treatment would be used only on county roads which currently feature that process. “No [smooth] asphalt roads will be changed to surface treatment,” he assured.
Commissioners revisited a request from Mohammed Mohiuddin for a beer and wine license on behalf of Needs Grocery, located at 185 Moores Crossing Road, because opposing petitioners in the area reconsidered their position, according to Allen. The request, which failed with a 2-2 vote at the last meeting, passed 3-2 in its second attempt, with commissioners Jones and James Ellington in opposition.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a beer and wine license for Venkatshwa Reddy Guntunka on behalf of Gopal Trading Food Mart, located at 1998 Highway 19 North. The request was tabled at the last meeting because of proximity concerns, but Planning Director Doug Currier assured the board that church activities had not been held at the building in question for two years.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a request by John M. Maguire of Old Road Properties and David S. Maguire for revisions to the development plan for remnant lots in Hickory Ridge subdivision. The Upson County Planning Commission previously recommended approval of the request.
The board approved a consent agenda which included approval to extend the existing resolution for a public health state of emergency in Upson County and approval of a $25,000 agreement with financial advisor Davenport & Co. for assistance in bank account consolidation to “maximize investment and efficiency.”
Community Mourns Death of Upson Lee Coach Tommy Parks
Coach Tommy “TP” Parks on the Knights’ Sideline.
Published 10-1-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Thomas Grant Parks, one of only three head football coaches with a career winning record in the 28-year history of Upson Lee High School and member of the Thomaston-Upson Sports Hall of Fame, died last week of lingering health complications from a stroke he suffered in July 2017.
He was 48 years old.
Born in Upson County in February 1972, Parks was a standout football and baseball player for R.E. Lee Institute and was a member of the 1988 Class AA state championship Rebels football team. He returned home in 2014 to lead the Knights to a 21-11 mark over three campaigns, one of three UL head coaches to never have a losing season.
After two years as defensive coordinator at Harris County High School in Hamilton, Parks took the reigns of a struggling program in 2004 which had posted only three winning seasons in 47 years. From 2004 to 2013, he led the Tigers to their first region championship (2013) and a Georgia High School Association quarterfinals appearance (2012).
Coach Parks posted records of 9-3 and 8-5 in his last two seasons with the Tigers, and left as Harris County’s winningest and most successful head coach.
During his career, Parks trained several next level players including New York Jets Linebacker Jordan Jenkins, Giants rookie linebacker Tae Crowder, former New England Patriots safety A.J. Howard, and Georgia Tech alumnus TaQuon Marshall. At UL, he coached David Marshall, who went on to play four years at the University of Georgia, and current Bulldogs defensive lineman Travon Walker.
Parks’ career head coaching record is 76-65 with seven trips to the playoffs. He was inducted into the local Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
Parks played college baseball at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia, Ala., where he received his associate’s degree. He earned his bachelor’s degree and continued his collegiate baseball career, receiving all-conference honors, at Berry College in Rome. While coaching at Manchester High School in the late 1990s, he earned a master’s degree in education administration from Troy State University in Phenix City, Ala.
In addition to football, Parks coached baseball and golf.
Services were held for Coach Parks Saturday.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Thomas Grant Parks, one of only three head football coaches with a career winning record in the 28-year history of Upson Lee High School and member of the Thomaston-Upson Sports Hall of Fame, died last week of lingering health complications from a stroke he suffered in July 2017.
He was 48 years old.
Born in Upson County in February 1972, Parks was a standout football and baseball player for R.E. Lee Institute and was a member of the 1988 Class AA state championship Rebels football team. He returned home in 2014 to lead the Knights to a 21-11 mark over three campaigns, one of three UL head coaches to never have a losing season.
After two years as defensive coordinator at Harris County High School in Hamilton, Parks took the reigns of a struggling program in 2004 which had posted only three winning seasons in 47 years. From 2004 to 2013, he led the Tigers to their first region championship (2013) and a Georgia High School Association quarterfinals appearance (2012).
Coach Parks posted records of 9-3 and 8-5 in his last two seasons with the Tigers, and left as Harris County’s winningest and most successful head coach.
During his career, Parks trained several next level players including New York Jets Linebacker Jordan Jenkins, Giants rookie linebacker Tae Crowder, former New England Patriots safety A.J. Howard, and Georgia Tech alumnus TaQuon Marshall. At UL, he coached David Marshall, who went on to play four years at the University of Georgia, and current Bulldogs defensive lineman Travon Walker.
Parks’ career head coaching record is 76-65 with seven trips to the playoffs. He was inducted into the local Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
Parks played college baseball at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia, Ala., where he received his associate’s degree. He earned his bachelor’s degree and continued his collegiate baseball career, receiving all-conference honors, at Berry College in Rome. While coaching at Manchester High School in the late 1990s, he earned a master’s degree in education administration from Troy State University in Phenix City, Ala.
In addition to football, Parks coached baseball and golf.
Services were held for Coach Parks Saturday.
Locals Protest for Children
Published 10-1-2020
Thomaston residents were seen at the Upson County Courthouse holding signs in support of the Save The Children Campaign. The signs read of messages like “Child Trafficking is NOT a Conspiracy Theory” and “We Speak Because They CAN’T.”
Save the Children was the first global movement for children, boldly declaring that children have rights, according to savethechildren.org.
“For 100 years, we have been giving children in the U.S. and around the world a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. When crisis strikes, we are always among the first to respond and the last to leave. We do whatever it takes to save children, transforming their lives and the future we share.”
Thomaston residents were seen at the Upson County Courthouse holding signs in support of the Save The Children Campaign. The signs read of messages like “Child Trafficking is NOT a Conspiracy Theory” and “We Speak Because They CAN’T.”
Save the Children was the first global movement for children, boldly declaring that children have rights, according to savethechildren.org.
“For 100 years, we have been giving children in the U.S. and around the world a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. When crisis strikes, we are always among the first to respond and the last to leave. We do whatever it takes to save children, transforming their lives and the future we share.”
Grand Jury Summons Information from Clerk Teresa Harper
| upson_grand_jury_questionnaire.covid.092020.pdf |
| letter_to_jurors__003___003_.pdf |
| juror_affidavit.pdf |
Published 9-28-2020
The following message was released by Upson County Clerk of Superior Court Teresa Harper in reference to upcoming Jurors.
"ATTENTION JURORS:
If you’ve received a Grand Jury Summons, enclosed you will find some additional paperwork and questionnaires. In addition to the Affidavit that accompanies all jury summons, we have now included a Jury Questionnaire that must be completed, as well. I have attached examples of each form below. Please be sure to complete both forms and submit to our office as soon as possible.
For your convenience, we are now offering the option to email forms. If you would prefer to email the forms rather than send by mail or drop them by our office, you may send to the following email address: upsonjury@upsoncountyga.org.
As always, we are here to help or assist as needed. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions. Thanks!"
The following message was released by Upson County Clerk of Superior Court Teresa Harper in reference to upcoming Jurors.
"ATTENTION JURORS:
If you’ve received a Grand Jury Summons, enclosed you will find some additional paperwork and questionnaires. In addition to the Affidavit that accompanies all jury summons, we have now included a Jury Questionnaire that must be completed, as well. I have attached examples of each form below. Please be sure to complete both forms and submit to our office as soon as possible.
For your convenience, we are now offering the option to email forms. If you would prefer to email the forms rather than send by mail or drop them by our office, you may send to the following email address: upsonjury@upsoncountyga.org.
As always, we are here to help or assist as needed. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions. Thanks!"
Greathouse Calls for Revote on AG Opinion Request
Motion Defeated by 3-2 Vote
Published 9-24-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
A motion by Thomaston City Council member Don Greathouse calling for a revote on council’s request for the state attorney general’s legal opinion on the R.E. Lee issue was denied by a 3-2 vote last week.
The 3-2 tally fell along the same lines as the original vote, with Greathouse and Ryan Tucker in support, and Jeff Middlebrooks, Lakeitha Reeves, and Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head opposing a revote.
“The backbone of what I’m trying to say is we need to have a legal vote,” Greathouse said before making the motion. “I thought the vote was improper because it was not on the agenda, and was not appropriately addressed. The motion and second were made, we voted, and we didn’t really know what we were voting for.”
“I know what I was voting for,” Middlebrooks responded.
Reeves asked, “What issue are you talking about?”
Based on her interpretation of state law, City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler previously deemed that the R.E. Lee name could not be removed from the government complex, and that two portraits and a set of curtains bearing the Lee name could not be removed from the adjacent auditorium. Sparked by concerns from Reeves and Middlebrooks, council voted 3-2 to seek a “second opinion” from the AG.
“We sent a letter to the attorney general requesting an opinion about a law that was plain on its face,” Greathouse said. “The city council itself is not above the law. We must display integrity, ethical behavior, and follow proper procedures. And no decisions should be made behind closed doors.”
Greathouse questioned Head’s ability to vote on the motion to revote, but Wheeler said from a legal standpoint, it was “up to Head” whether to recuse himself. Without Head’s vote, Mayor J.D. Stallings would have been asked to cast a deciding, tie-breaking vote.
“I believe the council was out of order, according to Robert’s Rules of Order (a parliamentary procedure manual widely used in United States government),” Greathouse stated. “I think it was improper to allow a vote on an item that was not on the agenda, and improper to allow Head to vote on an issue that he has had ethics complaints filed about. And the AG request is a public document - it should be read, approved, and publicized.”
Greathouse also questioned why the Lee issue only recently became important to council members.
“For the last two years we, as a city council, have spearheaded the Heart & Soul program. We’ve asked the community to give us their feedback on what mattered to them,” Greathouse said. “The issue at hand - R.E. Lee - was never once mentioned in 2,817 responses. Everyone here filled out a questionnaire. Did one person in this room mention the Lee issue in their Heart & Soul response?”
City Manager Russell Thompson responded to procedural concerns.
“We do have a process. We have a procedure that has been adopted,” Thompson said. “If there is some tightening up that we need to do to follow that decorum, with regard to adding items to the agenda or taking formal votes, we will continue to do our best job to make sure that happens.”
Thompson added that the city’s charter addresses the role of the city manager.
“This body is vested for the full governance of the City of Thomaston. In the same charter, the powers of the city manager include the appointment or removal of employees who are subject to the city manager’s discretion in day-to-day operations,” Thompson explained.
“I bring that up because we have certain situations where employees tend to circumvent the chain of command and take issues directly to elected officials,” he continued. “In some instances, that undermines the confidence of department directors. We will be enforcing that chain of command, and we would appreciate your cooperation to help us re-establish the proper chain.”
Thompson said employee concerns should first be discussed with department heads. If employees are dissatisfied, the next steps, in order, are human resources, the city manager, and finally the city council.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
A motion by Thomaston City Council member Don Greathouse calling for a revote on council’s request for the state attorney general’s legal opinion on the R.E. Lee issue was denied by a 3-2 vote last week.
The 3-2 tally fell along the same lines as the original vote, with Greathouse and Ryan Tucker in support, and Jeff Middlebrooks, Lakeitha Reeves, and Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head opposing a revote.
“The backbone of what I’m trying to say is we need to have a legal vote,” Greathouse said before making the motion. “I thought the vote was improper because it was not on the agenda, and was not appropriately addressed. The motion and second were made, we voted, and we didn’t really know what we were voting for.”
“I know what I was voting for,” Middlebrooks responded.
Reeves asked, “What issue are you talking about?”
Based on her interpretation of state law, City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler previously deemed that the R.E. Lee name could not be removed from the government complex, and that two portraits and a set of curtains bearing the Lee name could not be removed from the adjacent auditorium. Sparked by concerns from Reeves and Middlebrooks, council voted 3-2 to seek a “second opinion” from the AG.
“We sent a letter to the attorney general requesting an opinion about a law that was plain on its face,” Greathouse said. “The city council itself is not above the law. We must display integrity, ethical behavior, and follow proper procedures. And no decisions should be made behind closed doors.”
Greathouse questioned Head’s ability to vote on the motion to revote, but Wheeler said from a legal standpoint, it was “up to Head” whether to recuse himself. Without Head’s vote, Mayor J.D. Stallings would have been asked to cast a deciding, tie-breaking vote.
“I believe the council was out of order, according to Robert’s Rules of Order (a parliamentary procedure manual widely used in United States government),” Greathouse stated. “I think it was improper to allow a vote on an item that was not on the agenda, and improper to allow Head to vote on an issue that he has had ethics complaints filed about. And the AG request is a public document - it should be read, approved, and publicized.”
Greathouse also questioned why the Lee issue only recently became important to council members.
“For the last two years we, as a city council, have spearheaded the Heart & Soul program. We’ve asked the community to give us their feedback on what mattered to them,” Greathouse said. “The issue at hand - R.E. Lee - was never once mentioned in 2,817 responses. Everyone here filled out a questionnaire. Did one person in this room mention the Lee issue in their Heart & Soul response?”
City Manager Russell Thompson responded to procedural concerns.
“We do have a process. We have a procedure that has been adopted,” Thompson said. “If there is some tightening up that we need to do to follow that decorum, with regard to adding items to the agenda or taking formal votes, we will continue to do our best job to make sure that happens.”
Thompson added that the city’s charter addresses the role of the city manager.
“This body is vested for the full governance of the City of Thomaston. In the same charter, the powers of the city manager include the appointment or removal of employees who are subject to the city manager’s discretion in day-to-day operations,” Thompson explained.
“I bring that up because we have certain situations where employees tend to circumvent the chain of command and take issues directly to elected officials,” he continued. “In some instances, that undermines the confidence of department directors. We will be enforcing that chain of command, and we would appreciate your cooperation to help us re-establish the proper chain.”
Thompson said employee concerns should first be discussed with department heads. If employees are dissatisfied, the next steps, in order, are human resources, the city manager, and finally the city council.
City Audit Reflects Utility Fund Growth, $3.8 Million Balance
Published 9-24-2020
The City of Thomaston shows a general fund cash balance of almost $3.8 million and received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 34th year, according to results of a recent audit.
“Congratulations to [Financial Director] Lonnie [Joyce] and [City Manager] Russell [Thompson] for making that happen,” Reshann Adams of Driver, Adams + Sharpe, CPAs told council members during a meeting last week. “That’s quite a record.”
Adams highlighted increases in the positions of all utility funds, the highest being water and sewer service at $971,000, followed by electric at $369,000 and sanitation at $52,000. Of that $1.39 million, the city used approximately $691,000 to reduce debt from bonds and other sources, she said.
The audit reflects an unreserved fund balance of almost $3.57 million, according to Joyce.
Council members voted unanimously to authorize a $55,300 expense for a “quiet” bypass pump following complaints from residents about excessive noise. Bypass pumps are used to regulate city wastewater.
In other action, council voted unanimously to approve an amendment to the city’s cemetery ordinance permitting horizontal markers, and voted unanimously to adopt a fee schedule for permits which is “consistent with surrounding areas,” according to Thompson.
Council voted to table approval of a resolution for issuance of multi-family housing revenue bonds by the Thomaston Housing Authority, and agreed to continue discussion of a potential change in city employee compensation, healthcare, and pensions at the council’s budget work session.
The City of Thomaston shows a general fund cash balance of almost $3.8 million and received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 34th year, according to results of a recent audit.
“Congratulations to [Financial Director] Lonnie [Joyce] and [City Manager] Russell [Thompson] for making that happen,” Reshann Adams of Driver, Adams + Sharpe, CPAs told council members during a meeting last week. “That’s quite a record.”
Adams highlighted increases in the positions of all utility funds, the highest being water and sewer service at $971,000, followed by electric at $369,000 and sanitation at $52,000. Of that $1.39 million, the city used approximately $691,000 to reduce debt from bonds and other sources, she said.
The audit reflects an unreserved fund balance of almost $3.57 million, according to Joyce.
Council members voted unanimously to authorize a $55,300 expense for a “quiet” bypass pump following complaints from residents about excessive noise. Bypass pumps are used to regulate city wastewater.
In other action, council voted unanimously to approve an amendment to the city’s cemetery ordinance permitting horizontal markers, and voted unanimously to adopt a fee schedule for permits which is “consistent with surrounding areas,” according to Thompson.
Council voted to table approval of a resolution for issuance of multi-family housing revenue bonds by the Thomaston Housing Authority, and agreed to continue discussion of a potential change in city employee compensation, healthcare, and pensions at the council’s budget work session.
Youth Found Unharmed After Extensive Search
Published 9-17-2020
A 15-year-old male missing south of Thomaston for 11 hours was found unharmed by two searchers making “one more pass” around 4 a.m. Sunday, according to Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
The youth was reported missing at 7 p.m. Saturday after beginning a walk at 5 p.m. in the Martin Church Road area. He was found three to four miles from his residence after getting lost in the woods, Kilgore said.
The search was about to be suspended until sunrise when sheriff’s office Sgt. Mike Rucker and Department of Natural Resources Ranger Will Smith agreed to make one more attempt, using a patrol car’s loud speaker and siren to alert the youth. They heard his voice and made contact shortly afterward, according to Kilgore.
“EMA Rescue was requested to assist with a missing child last night,” Director Martha Anne McCarty announced in an online post. “I am happy to report that he was located… all is well. He is safe and sound, just the way we like for search and rescue operations to end. Way to go, teams! Fantastic Job!”
In addition to EMA, sheriff’s deputies and DNR rangers, assistance was provided by Lincoln Park Volunteer Fire Department, Georgia State Patrol helicopter from Kennesaw, two dog teams from Meriwether and Harris counties, and other volunteer fire departments, according to McCarty.
Rescue Chief Eddie Singletary said about 50 volunteers were on the scene, including rescue personnel, friends, family, and church members searching for the teen, who was reported to be mildly autistic.
“We really appreciate the volunteers who showed up to help, along with all the professionals who assisted in the search,” Kilgore concluded.
A 15-year-old male missing south of Thomaston for 11 hours was found unharmed by two searchers making “one more pass” around 4 a.m. Sunday, according to Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
The youth was reported missing at 7 p.m. Saturday after beginning a walk at 5 p.m. in the Martin Church Road area. He was found three to four miles from his residence after getting lost in the woods, Kilgore said.
The search was about to be suspended until sunrise when sheriff’s office Sgt. Mike Rucker and Department of Natural Resources Ranger Will Smith agreed to make one more attempt, using a patrol car’s loud speaker and siren to alert the youth. They heard his voice and made contact shortly afterward, according to Kilgore.
“EMA Rescue was requested to assist with a missing child last night,” Director Martha Anne McCarty announced in an online post. “I am happy to report that he was located… all is well. He is safe and sound, just the way we like for search and rescue operations to end. Way to go, teams! Fantastic Job!”
In addition to EMA, sheriff’s deputies and DNR rangers, assistance was provided by Lincoln Park Volunteer Fire Department, Georgia State Patrol helicopter from Kennesaw, two dog teams from Meriwether and Harris counties, and other volunteer fire departments, according to McCarty.
Rescue Chief Eddie Singletary said about 50 volunteers were on the scene, including rescue personnel, friends, family, and church members searching for the teen, who was reported to be mildly autistic.
“We really appreciate the volunteers who showed up to help, along with all the professionals who assisted in the search,” Kilgore concluded.
Zoning & Package Requests Receive Mixed Responses
Commission OKs Two, Denies Two
Published 9-17-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Commissioners denied a rezoning request for a convenience store and laundromat on Moores Crossing Road by unanimous vote and denied a beer and wine package sales license, also on Moores Crossing Road, by split vote last week.
Oddly, commissioners Benjamin Watson and Lorenzo Wilder combined to move for denial of the convenience store, then combined to move for approval of the package license. The Upson Planning Commission previously recommended conditional approval of the store and laundromat.
Applicant Snehith Chamakura of Thomaston requested rezoning property west of Potato Creek Heights at 202 West Moores Crossing Road from R-2 to C-1 to allow for operation of a convenience store and laundromat. Planning Director Doug Currier gave a staff recommendation for approval, but multiple letters from residents objecting to the rezoning were read aloud during the public hearing phase.
Wilder made a motion to deny and Watson seconded, leading to a 4-0 vote against the request. Commissioner Paul Jones did not attend the meeting.
“Being my district, this is a scenario where I have to take personal opinion out of the equation,” Watson said. “Due to the large number (approximately 140) signing a petition, it’s a big portion of my district, and I have to represent them.
“He (Chamakura) went through the proper steps,” Watson continued. “He potentially was going to provide a structure that would look better than what’s currently there, so it was a hard decision.”
Minutes after the denial, commissioners considered an application from Mohammed A. Mohiuddin on behalf of Needs Grocery, located at 185 Moores Crossing Road, for a beer and wine package sales license. Watson moved to approve the license, and Wilder seconded the motion.
“I’ll just say it. This is one of those convenience stores in the vicinity of the one we just turned down,” Chairman Norman Allen reminded board members. “I’m just making a point.”
Watson and Wilder voted to approve, followed by Commissioner James Ellington’s vote to deny. After a lengthy pause, Allen voted to deny, resulting in a 2-2 deadlock. According to County Manager Jason Tinsley, a tie is the equivalent to a denial.
“We’re elected by a majority of the people in our district,” Ellington said. We have to listen to our constituents… that’s why we’re here.
“It would be easy for us to vote our conscience, but we always like citizens’ input,” Ellington continued. “We may not always agree with it, but majority rules. That’s why I take that same stance (as Watson).”
The commission voted unanimously to approve a request from James Dawson of The Rock to rezone property at 1477 Barnesville Highway, the location of a used car lot, from A-R to C-2; and voted unanimously to approve a request for special exception from Jennifer Shurley of Yatesville (representing White Oak Ridge, LLC) for a deer camp on 310 acres located at 1050 Pleasant Grove Road in Yatesville.
Commissioners voted to table an application from Venkateshwa Reddy Guntuka on behalf of Gopal Trading, VMR Food Mart, located at 1998 Highway 19 North, Suite D in Thomaston, for a beer and wine package sales license. The board questioned proximity to a church facility, and will revisit the request at the commission’s Sept. 22 meeting.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Commissioners denied a rezoning request for a convenience store and laundromat on Moores Crossing Road by unanimous vote and denied a beer and wine package sales license, also on Moores Crossing Road, by split vote last week.
Oddly, commissioners Benjamin Watson and Lorenzo Wilder combined to move for denial of the convenience store, then combined to move for approval of the package license. The Upson Planning Commission previously recommended conditional approval of the store and laundromat.
Applicant Snehith Chamakura of Thomaston requested rezoning property west of Potato Creek Heights at 202 West Moores Crossing Road from R-2 to C-1 to allow for operation of a convenience store and laundromat. Planning Director Doug Currier gave a staff recommendation for approval, but multiple letters from residents objecting to the rezoning were read aloud during the public hearing phase.
Wilder made a motion to deny and Watson seconded, leading to a 4-0 vote against the request. Commissioner Paul Jones did not attend the meeting.
“Being my district, this is a scenario where I have to take personal opinion out of the equation,” Watson said. “Due to the large number (approximately 140) signing a petition, it’s a big portion of my district, and I have to represent them.
“He (Chamakura) went through the proper steps,” Watson continued. “He potentially was going to provide a structure that would look better than what’s currently there, so it was a hard decision.”
Minutes after the denial, commissioners considered an application from Mohammed A. Mohiuddin on behalf of Needs Grocery, located at 185 Moores Crossing Road, for a beer and wine package sales license. Watson moved to approve the license, and Wilder seconded the motion.
“I’ll just say it. This is one of those convenience stores in the vicinity of the one we just turned down,” Chairman Norman Allen reminded board members. “I’m just making a point.”
Watson and Wilder voted to approve, followed by Commissioner James Ellington’s vote to deny. After a lengthy pause, Allen voted to deny, resulting in a 2-2 deadlock. According to County Manager Jason Tinsley, a tie is the equivalent to a denial.
“We’re elected by a majority of the people in our district,” Ellington said. We have to listen to our constituents… that’s why we’re here.
“It would be easy for us to vote our conscience, but we always like citizens’ input,” Ellington continued. “We may not always agree with it, but majority rules. That’s why I take that same stance (as Watson).”
The commission voted unanimously to approve a request from James Dawson of The Rock to rezone property at 1477 Barnesville Highway, the location of a used car lot, from A-R to C-2; and voted unanimously to approve a request for special exception from Jennifer Shurley of Yatesville (representing White Oak Ridge, LLC) for a deer camp on 310 acres located at 1050 Pleasant Grove Road in Yatesville.
Commissioners voted to table an application from Venkateshwa Reddy Guntuka on behalf of Gopal Trading, VMR Food Mart, located at 1998 Highway 19 North, Suite D in Thomaston, for a beer and wine package sales license. The board questioned proximity to a church facility, and will revisit the request at the commission’s Sept. 22 meeting.
Ethics Committee Dismisses Complaints Against Head
Ruling: City Code Does Not Prohibit ‘Personal Interest’ Without Financial Gain
Published Online 9-17-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
The Thomaston Ethics Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to dismiss complaints against Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head regarding Head’s comments and involvement in an effort to remove the R.E. Lee name and related articles from the local government complex.
Members of the committee ruled that without “direct or indirect financial interest,” personal interest by a member of Thomaston City Council is not prohibited by the city’s code of ethics.
“In evaluating the complaints, we are bound by the code of ethics of the City of Thomaston,” explained committee member Bob Cochran. “While Mr. Head may have a personal interest in issues that are the subject matter of these complaints, that personal interest is not prohibited by the code…
“Under the provisions of the code… a prohibited interest is defined as a financial interest, either direct or indirect,” Cochran continued. “In the facts presented by the complaints, Mr. Head clearly has no direct or indirect financial interest in the issues which are the subject matter of these complaints.”
Cochran referenced complaints submitted by Steve Adams, Lori Lindsey, and Russ Wheless.
“Having given all these matters a great deal of study and consideration, I now move that the complaints of Mr. Adams, Mrs. Lindsey, and Mr. Wheless be dismissed as failing to state facts sufficient to invoke the disciplinary jurisdiction of this committee,” Cochran concluded.
Ethics committee member Constance Flint seconded the motion and Chairman Ronald VanHouten concurred with Cochran’s assessment.
Prior to the vote, the committee held an executive session, after which attorney David Dunaway outlined the group’s purpose.
“Once complaints are filed, it is this body’s duty to inquire into and evaluate those complaints, determine whether they are justified, unjustified, frivolous, patently unfounded, or fail to state a claim sufficient to invoke disciplinary action,” Dunaway explained.
“In dealing with each of the complaints, we are required to… determine whether it warrants further investigation,” Cochran stated. “Given the seriousness of the issues involved in this inquiry, in my judgement, this committee has done what we are charged to do.”
The unanimous vote was the first judgement rendered by the ethics committee in its history.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
The Thomaston Ethics Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to dismiss complaints against Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head regarding Head’s comments and involvement in an effort to remove the R.E. Lee name and related articles from the local government complex.
Members of the committee ruled that without “direct or indirect financial interest,” personal interest by a member of Thomaston City Council is not prohibited by the city’s code of ethics.
“In evaluating the complaints, we are bound by the code of ethics of the City of Thomaston,” explained committee member Bob Cochran. “While Mr. Head may have a personal interest in issues that are the subject matter of these complaints, that personal interest is not prohibited by the code…
“Under the provisions of the code… a prohibited interest is defined as a financial interest, either direct or indirect,” Cochran continued. “In the facts presented by the complaints, Mr. Head clearly has no direct or indirect financial interest in the issues which are the subject matter of these complaints.”
Cochran referenced complaints submitted by Steve Adams, Lori Lindsey, and Russ Wheless.
“Having given all these matters a great deal of study and consideration, I now move that the complaints of Mr. Adams, Mrs. Lindsey, and Mr. Wheless be dismissed as failing to state facts sufficient to invoke the disciplinary jurisdiction of this committee,” Cochran concluded.
Ethics committee member Constance Flint seconded the motion and Chairman Ronald VanHouten concurred with Cochran’s assessment.
Prior to the vote, the committee held an executive session, after which attorney David Dunaway outlined the group’s purpose.
“Once complaints are filed, it is this body’s duty to inquire into and evaluate those complaints, determine whether they are justified, unjustified, frivolous, patently unfounded, or fail to state a claim sufficient to invoke disciplinary action,” Dunaway explained.
“In dealing with each of the complaints, we are required to… determine whether it warrants further investigation,” Cochran stated. “Given the seriousness of the issues involved in this inquiry, in my judgement, this committee has done what we are charged to do.”
The unanimous vote was the first judgement rendered by the ethics committee in its history.
Ethics Committee Chooses Attorney
Published 9-17-2020
Members of the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee chose local attorney David Dunaway last week to represent them during the investigative process and proceedings involving Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head.
Head has come under attack on social media and elsewhere for voicing his position on removal of the R.E. Lee name, associated portraits, and other artifacts from the government complex. His comments led to complaints being filed with the ethics committee, and a hearing was held Wednesday, results of which were not available at press time.
Head reportedly retained Newton M. Galloway, partner of Galloway & Lyndall, LLP of Griffin, to represent him in the matter. Galloway’s firm concentrates on local government law, along with utility regulation law, zoning and development law, and general commercial litigation, according to web reports.
Dunaway also specializes in government, along with federal trial practice, federal appellate practice, and divorce and family law, according to online sources. Dunaway previously was associated with Ronald Barfield, who served as Thomaston city attorney for decades.
Members of the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee chose local attorney David Dunaway last week to represent them during the investigative process and proceedings involving Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head.
Head has come under attack on social media and elsewhere for voicing his position on removal of the R.E. Lee name, associated portraits, and other artifacts from the government complex. His comments led to complaints being filed with the ethics committee, and a hearing was held Wednesday, results of which were not available at press time.
Head reportedly retained Newton M. Galloway, partner of Galloway & Lyndall, LLP of Griffin, to represent him in the matter. Galloway’s firm concentrates on local government law, along with utility regulation law, zoning and development law, and general commercial litigation, according to web reports.
Dunaway also specializes in government, along with federal trial practice, federal appellate practice, and divorce and family law, according to online sources. Dunaway previously was associated with Ronald Barfield, who served as Thomaston city attorney for decades.
Flooding Causes 3 Road Closures in Upson County
Published 9-17-2020
Three roads in Upson County are currently closed due to flooding, according to Emergency Management Agency Director Martha Anne McCarty.
Dripping Rock Road at Elkins Creek, Trinity Road south of Highway 74 East, and Rock Hill School Road at Bickley’s Lake are the affected areas. The roads should reopen as floodwaters recede.
“We had a few trees down, along with the three road closures,” McCarty said. “Glad things were no worse!”
McCarty receives updates on conditions from Chief Warning Meteorologist Dave Nadler with the National Weather Service in Atlanta, who reported “the bulk of the heavy rain and stronger winds have exited the forecast area.”
Three roads in Upson County are currently closed due to flooding, according to Emergency Management Agency Director Martha Anne McCarty.
Dripping Rock Road at Elkins Creek, Trinity Road south of Highway 74 East, and Rock Hill School Road at Bickley’s Lake are the affected areas. The roads should reopen as floodwaters recede.
“We had a few trees down, along with the three road closures,” McCarty said. “Glad things were no worse!”
McCarty receives updates on conditions from Chief Warning Meteorologist Dave Nadler with the National Weather Service in Atlanta, who reported “the bulk of the heavy rain and stronger winds have exited the forecast area.”
Middlebrooks: ‘Principle is More Important Than Cost’
Reeves Requests AG’s Legal Opinion on Lee Name Removal; City Considers Moving Offices from Complex
Jeff Middlebrooks
Published 9-10-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
The Thomaston City Council voted 3-2 last week to seek a second opinion from the state attorney general regarding the removal of the R.E. Lee name from the local government complex, along with two portraits and a set of curtains bearing the Lee name in the adjacent auditorium.
The vote followed a request from council member Lakeitha Reeves, who questioned how “other towns have done it.” Citing a state law, the council previously voted unanimously to take no action on the matter of removal.
“My opinion is that you can’t change the name [on the building] or move any articles [from the building],” City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler said. She added that there are different conditions relating to smaller monuments.
“You can relocate a monument and move it to another prominent place that’s just as visible to the public so it can be displayed,” Wheeler explained. “You cannot take down a monument and put it in a museum or conceal it from the public. It has to be in the same type area.”
Council members Don Greathouse and Ryan Tucker voted against requesting the attorney general’s opinion.
“I think the law is plain on its face,” Greathouse said. “The ruling DeAnn made was a hard ruling, but a fair ruling.”
Reeves, council member Jeff Middlebrooks, and Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head voted to ask the AG’s opinion.
Reeves and Middlebrooks both said they do not want to wait six months for a ruling from the attorney general before taking action.
“If we can’t come to a conclusion [on the Lee issue], we need to look at relocating,” Middlebrooks stated. “I personally feel that having municipal court and probate court in this [Confederate] building is not right.”
“The questions are where, how much, and how we’re going to pay for it,” Tucker commented.
Middlebrooks said he has heard multiple complaints from his constituents.
"Some people feel intimidated walking in this building with it being a Confederate building,” Middlebrooks explained. “The principle, to me, is way more important than the cost. We need to start looking.”
Mayor J.D. Stallings and City Manager Russell Thompson reminded council that the government complex is jointly owned by the City of Thomaston and Upson County, and that relocation likely would entail a lengthy negotiation process involving county officials.
The council also voted 4-0 to authorize appropriation of funds for legal counsel for both Head and the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee, which is investigating complaints relating to comments and actions by Head regarding the R.E. Lee issue prior to council’s “no action” vote.
Wheeler told members that as attorney for the council, she could represent neither Head nor the ethics committee, since the council could be asked to act on a recommendation from the committee following a hearing with Head. No date has been set for a hearing.
“What is the rational for anybody to need an attorney since it’s not a criminal matter?” Tucker asked. “I want to do what’s right, but it’s taxpayer money.”
Thompson said representation is required by city code, and added that the city’s carrier had been contacted and deemed that “it is not an insurable matter, so the cost will come straight from city funds.”
Wheeler told council members the ethics committee has never fielded a complaint, and has never met in the history of the body. The group “needs help” with decorum and general guidance, she said.
Following a 53-minute executive session, council returned to regular session and voted 4-0 for a finding of “no merit” to two complaints lodged against ethics committee chairman Ronald VanHouten. The complaints request that VanHouten recuse himself from any proceedings involving Head because of his public admission to a long-time friendship with Head.
Head was not present in the executive session, was not present during the 4-0 vote to appropriate funds for attorneys, and abstained from the vote of “no merit” regarding complaints against VanHouten.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
The Thomaston City Council voted 3-2 last week to seek a second opinion from the state attorney general regarding the removal of the R.E. Lee name from the local government complex, along with two portraits and a set of curtains bearing the Lee name in the adjacent auditorium.
The vote followed a request from council member Lakeitha Reeves, who questioned how “other towns have done it.” Citing a state law, the council previously voted unanimously to take no action on the matter of removal.
“My opinion is that you can’t change the name [on the building] or move any articles [from the building],” City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler said. She added that there are different conditions relating to smaller monuments.
“You can relocate a monument and move it to another prominent place that’s just as visible to the public so it can be displayed,” Wheeler explained. “You cannot take down a monument and put it in a museum or conceal it from the public. It has to be in the same type area.”
Council members Don Greathouse and Ryan Tucker voted against requesting the attorney general’s opinion.
“I think the law is plain on its face,” Greathouse said. “The ruling DeAnn made was a hard ruling, but a fair ruling.”
Reeves, council member Jeff Middlebrooks, and Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head voted to ask the AG’s opinion.
Reeves and Middlebrooks both said they do not want to wait six months for a ruling from the attorney general before taking action.
“If we can’t come to a conclusion [on the Lee issue], we need to look at relocating,” Middlebrooks stated. “I personally feel that having municipal court and probate court in this [Confederate] building is not right.”
“The questions are where, how much, and how we’re going to pay for it,” Tucker commented.
Middlebrooks said he has heard multiple complaints from his constituents.
"Some people feel intimidated walking in this building with it being a Confederate building,” Middlebrooks explained. “The principle, to me, is way more important than the cost. We need to start looking.”
Mayor J.D. Stallings and City Manager Russell Thompson reminded council that the government complex is jointly owned by the City of Thomaston and Upson County, and that relocation likely would entail a lengthy negotiation process involving county officials.
The council also voted 4-0 to authorize appropriation of funds for legal counsel for both Head and the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee, which is investigating complaints relating to comments and actions by Head regarding the R.E. Lee issue prior to council’s “no action” vote.
Wheeler told members that as attorney for the council, she could represent neither Head nor the ethics committee, since the council could be asked to act on a recommendation from the committee following a hearing with Head. No date has been set for a hearing.
“What is the rational for anybody to need an attorney since it’s not a criminal matter?” Tucker asked. “I want to do what’s right, but it’s taxpayer money.”
Thompson said representation is required by city code, and added that the city’s carrier had been contacted and deemed that “it is not an insurable matter, so the cost will come straight from city funds.”
Wheeler told council members the ethics committee has never fielded a complaint, and has never met in the history of the body. The group “needs help” with decorum and general guidance, she said.
Following a 53-minute executive session, council returned to regular session and voted 4-0 for a finding of “no merit” to two complaints lodged against ethics committee chairman Ronald VanHouten. The complaints request that VanHouten recuse himself from any proceedings involving Head because of his public admission to a long-time friendship with Head.
Head was not present in the executive session, was not present during the 4-0 vote to appropriate funds for attorneys, and abstained from the vote of “no merit” regarding complaints against VanHouten.
Amended Complaint Alleges Collaboration Between Head and R.E. Lee Removal Group
Doug Head
Published 9-10-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
An amended complaint filed last week by attorney Steve Adams alleges ongoing collaboration between Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head and a group demanding removal of the R.E. Lee name from the government complex prior to a Thomaston City Council vote in August to “take no action.”
Adams, a 1966 graduate of R.E. Lee now living in Atlanta, submitted copies of the document to The Upson Beacon. He maintains ownership of “a home and property in Thomaston,” according to the complaint.
“I am making this amendment to my original ethics complaint to include evidence I just received… for the purpose of further showing that Mr. Head never had any intention of listening to his constituents in a fair and unbiased way with regard to the R.E. Lee name and other artifacts in/on the city government building,” the complaint states. “I am also adding what I believe to be another violation of his ethics.”
Attached to the complaint are photocopies of online comments by David Baxter, reportedly a college student in Chicago, Ill. and previous resident of The Rock, who has been active in the effort to remove the Lee name. The comments indicate that Head “called” Baxter and the two “spoke at length” regarding Head’s position on the Lee matter.
One of Baxter’s posts stated Head’s “support is powerful, and this is a great success for the cause.”
“…if accurate, that will prove that Mr. Head’s actions were surely not inadvertent and that there was nothing about them that was designed to bring harmony to the community,” Adams’ complaint reads. “…the citizens of Thomaston are entitled to know if their councilman was encouraging those wanting to take down their very dear history.
“Baxter states that… Mr. Head had given him insight in the best way to get the council’s attention, and further stated Mr. Head continued to encourage the group to keep up the fight,” the complaint continues.
“If these documents accurately reflect the actions of Mr. Head then it would have been impossible for his actions to be inadvertent and surely they were not to promote the harmony of the community, because by taking sides, he was assuring that there would be a disruption of harmony on the other side,” Adams asserts. “That other side, in this case, would be the majority of his constituents whom he never intended to give a fair hearing.”
Adams’ complaint also objected to Head’s participation in the Sept. 1 vote to seek the attorney general’s opinion regarding interpretation of state law as it applies to status of the government complex. Head’s vote broke an otherwise 2-2 tie to uphold City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler’s interpretation which led to a previous unanimous vote of “no action.”
“On Sept. 1 [Head] was allowed to vote on a motion to ask for an attorney general’s opinion regarding the same matter. It is my belief that he should not have been allowed to make that vote for the same reasons I requested in my original complaint,” the document states. “Therefore, I am asking that Mr. Head be found guilty of his ethics requirements by virtue of his voting on the motion of Sept. 1.”
In an email to The Beacon, Baxter objected to language contained in the complaint, emphasizing only one conversation took place between him and Head.
“I have only had one conversation with him over the phone and have never spoken to him, on the phone or in any other form, outside of that one phone conversation,” Baxter wrote. “I do not know Doug Head outside of this singular phone call.”
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
An amended complaint filed last week by attorney Steve Adams alleges ongoing collaboration between Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head and a group demanding removal of the R.E. Lee name from the government complex prior to a Thomaston City Council vote in August to “take no action.”
Adams, a 1966 graduate of R.E. Lee now living in Atlanta, submitted copies of the document to The Upson Beacon. He maintains ownership of “a home and property in Thomaston,” according to the complaint.
“I am making this amendment to my original ethics complaint to include evidence I just received… for the purpose of further showing that Mr. Head never had any intention of listening to his constituents in a fair and unbiased way with regard to the R.E. Lee name and other artifacts in/on the city government building,” the complaint states. “I am also adding what I believe to be another violation of his ethics.”
Attached to the complaint are photocopies of online comments by David Baxter, reportedly a college student in Chicago, Ill. and previous resident of The Rock, who has been active in the effort to remove the Lee name. The comments indicate that Head “called” Baxter and the two “spoke at length” regarding Head’s position on the Lee matter.
One of Baxter’s posts stated Head’s “support is powerful, and this is a great success for the cause.”
“…if accurate, that will prove that Mr. Head’s actions were surely not inadvertent and that there was nothing about them that was designed to bring harmony to the community,” Adams’ complaint reads. “…the citizens of Thomaston are entitled to know if their councilman was encouraging those wanting to take down their very dear history.
“Baxter states that… Mr. Head had given him insight in the best way to get the council’s attention, and further stated Mr. Head continued to encourage the group to keep up the fight,” the complaint continues.
“If these documents accurately reflect the actions of Mr. Head then it would have been impossible for his actions to be inadvertent and surely they were not to promote the harmony of the community, because by taking sides, he was assuring that there would be a disruption of harmony on the other side,” Adams asserts. “That other side, in this case, would be the majority of his constituents whom he never intended to give a fair hearing.”
Adams’ complaint also objected to Head’s participation in the Sept. 1 vote to seek the attorney general’s opinion regarding interpretation of state law as it applies to status of the government complex. Head’s vote broke an otherwise 2-2 tie to uphold City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler’s interpretation which led to a previous unanimous vote of “no action.”
“On Sept. 1 [Head] was allowed to vote on a motion to ask for an attorney general’s opinion regarding the same matter. It is my belief that he should not have been allowed to make that vote for the same reasons I requested in my original complaint,” the document states. “Therefore, I am asking that Mr. Head be found guilty of his ethics requirements by virtue of his voting on the motion of Sept. 1.”
In an email to The Beacon, Baxter objected to language contained in the complaint, emphasizing only one conversation took place between him and Head.
“I have only had one conversation with him over the phone and have never spoken to him, on the phone or in any other form, outside of that one phone conversation,” Baxter wrote. “I do not know Doug Head outside of this singular phone call.”
Silvertown to Receive State Marker
Residents line the street for a soap box derby race in 1947.
The Thomaston Mills sponsored Silvertown derby races in the late 1940s and '50s.
Published 9-10-2020
The community of Silvertown is slated to receive an official Georgia State Marker through the state’s marker program, administered by the Georgia Historical Society.
Thanks to a generous donation from Keadle Enterprises, the Thomaston-Upson Archives was able to submit an application to receive the marker through the GHS’s cost-share program, in which sponsors contribute $2,500 toward construction and the Georgia Historical Society pays the equivalent plus any additional cost. Sponsors included are the Thomaston-Upson Archives, the Upson Historical Society, and the Thomaston Upson Landmark Legacy (TULL).
“Silvertown Mill Village has such a rich history,” commented Sandra Keadle of Keadle Enterprises. “The mill village was designed by renowned landscape designer and city planner Earl Sumner Draper. Draper’s beautifully designed curvilinear streets and green spaces are simply timeless. It is my understanding that Silvertown is the most originally intact of Draper’s mill village designs in Georgia.
“Built in the late 1930s, the refurbished ball park is just priceless and reminds one of the ‘Field of Dreams.’ Today, it is home to the Upson-Lee Knights baseball team. The Greatest Generation Memorial Park has been developed and enjoyed by our citizens in the open green space (pine thicket) area. This area honors our World War II veterans and the textile workers who assisted in the war effort at the home front. Steve Keadle and I feel that the Keadle Lumber Foundation’s donation for Silvertown’s Georgia Historical Marker is the perfect way to highlight the mill village’s rich history and will help educate our citizens and visitors about the people and events that have shaped our past and present. We are so thankful that the application for Silvertown’s Georgia State Historical Marker has been approved and look at it as a positive addition for our community. We thank everyone involved in this process both locally and on the state level to make this happen.”
“The historic marker, which will be located adjacent to Greatest Generation Park at the intersection of Hwy 19 and Goodrich Ave, will be a beacon to our citizens and travelers alike. A permanent reminder of those people who worked in the mills, lived in the mill villages, raised families, went off to war, loved and died here, for almost 100 years,” commented Silvertown resident Jane Burdette.
The GHS has administered the historical marker program for the state since 1998, and is responsible for more than 300 new roadside markers across Georgia.
The entire process is expected to take between 6-12 months, with the northern triangle of Park Drive designated as the location. The marker will honor the historical mill village, with respect to how it formed through negotiations with Thomaston Mills and B.F. Goodrich, as well as its role beyond the local level, which includes the numerous applications of World War II materials made in Martha Mill.
The community of Silvertown is slated to receive an official Georgia State Marker through the state’s marker program, administered by the Georgia Historical Society.
Thanks to a generous donation from Keadle Enterprises, the Thomaston-Upson Archives was able to submit an application to receive the marker through the GHS’s cost-share program, in which sponsors contribute $2,500 toward construction and the Georgia Historical Society pays the equivalent plus any additional cost. Sponsors included are the Thomaston-Upson Archives, the Upson Historical Society, and the Thomaston Upson Landmark Legacy (TULL).
“Silvertown Mill Village has such a rich history,” commented Sandra Keadle of Keadle Enterprises. “The mill village was designed by renowned landscape designer and city planner Earl Sumner Draper. Draper’s beautifully designed curvilinear streets and green spaces are simply timeless. It is my understanding that Silvertown is the most originally intact of Draper’s mill village designs in Georgia.
“Built in the late 1930s, the refurbished ball park is just priceless and reminds one of the ‘Field of Dreams.’ Today, it is home to the Upson-Lee Knights baseball team. The Greatest Generation Memorial Park has been developed and enjoyed by our citizens in the open green space (pine thicket) area. This area honors our World War II veterans and the textile workers who assisted in the war effort at the home front. Steve Keadle and I feel that the Keadle Lumber Foundation’s donation for Silvertown’s Georgia Historical Marker is the perfect way to highlight the mill village’s rich history and will help educate our citizens and visitors about the people and events that have shaped our past and present. We are so thankful that the application for Silvertown’s Georgia State Historical Marker has been approved and look at it as a positive addition for our community. We thank everyone involved in this process both locally and on the state level to make this happen.”
“The historic marker, which will be located adjacent to Greatest Generation Park at the intersection of Hwy 19 and Goodrich Ave, will be a beacon to our citizens and travelers alike. A permanent reminder of those people who worked in the mills, lived in the mill villages, raised families, went off to war, loved and died here, for almost 100 years,” commented Silvertown resident Jane Burdette.
The GHS has administered the historical marker program for the state since 1998, and is responsible for more than 300 new roadside markers across Georgia.
The entire process is expected to take between 6-12 months, with the northern triangle of Park Drive designated as the location. The marker will honor the historical mill village, with respect to how it formed through negotiations with Thomaston Mills and B.F. Goodrich, as well as its role beyond the local level, which includes the numerous applications of World War II materials made in Martha Mill.
Ethics Committee to
Set Hearing for Head
Published 9-3-2020
The City of Thomaston Ethics Committee voted last week to move forward with a hearing after several complaints were made against Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head following Head’s public comments regarding the removal of the R.E. Lee name from the Government Complex.
Letters from Steve Adams dated Aug. 14 and from Russ Wheless dated Aug. 17 requested that Head recuse himself from any decision regarding the issue. Several other Thomastonians signed onto the complaints.
“In my judgement, the mayor and council should have abided by their [July 22] press release, and I don’t think they did,” committee member Bob Cochran said. “When they agreed not to place the topic of this matter on the council agenda until such time as the matter could be discussed via public comment… I think [the complaint] has merit.”
The city council was scheduled to vote on authorization of funds to hire legal counsel for Head and the ethics committee Tuesday night, but results of the meeting were not available at press time. City attorney DeAnn Wheeler said conflict of interest would prevent her from representing either side in the hearing.
Adams’ letter closes with the following:
“My request is being made because Mr. Head has publicly, in council session and otherwise, made it clear that he is totally biased with the issue before the council, that he has a moral obligation to vote for take down based on his religion, and thus has egregiously exceeded the ethical principles required of his position.
“In addition, the request is being made because there are many who believe Mr. Head would be the deciding vote on this matter and if that is the case, then the fairness of the decision of the council would be in serious question. If he recuses himself, then at least there is an opportunity for the citizens of Thomaston to receive a fair vote on this matter.”
Council voted unanimously last week to take no action on the matter, based on perceived legal ramifications.
Following the council’s Tuesday vote on authorizing funds for legal counsel, the ethics committee will reconvene to choose an attorney and set a date and time for the hearing. The group is required to take final action in not less than 30 days of receipt of the original complaint, according to Wheeler.
“Sometimes things tend to get out of hand,” said ethics committee chairman Ronald VanHouten. “We live and work in the same community, serve the same God, and we all bleed red blood, regardless of our skin color.
“What we’re going to try to do here is see if there were any violations and try to make things better,” VanHouten continued, “because I think all of us want to be united, especially in this age of unrest in this country.”
Committee member Constance Flint said she wants to hear what Head “has to say. He deserves a chance to be here and defend himself.”
The City of Thomaston Ethics Committee voted last week to move forward with a hearing after several complaints were made against Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head following Head’s public comments regarding the removal of the R.E. Lee name from the Government Complex.
Letters from Steve Adams dated Aug. 14 and from Russ Wheless dated Aug. 17 requested that Head recuse himself from any decision regarding the issue. Several other Thomastonians signed onto the complaints.
“In my judgement, the mayor and council should have abided by their [July 22] press release, and I don’t think they did,” committee member Bob Cochran said. “When they agreed not to place the topic of this matter on the council agenda until such time as the matter could be discussed via public comment… I think [the complaint] has merit.”
The city council was scheduled to vote on authorization of funds to hire legal counsel for Head and the ethics committee Tuesday night, but results of the meeting were not available at press time. City attorney DeAnn Wheeler said conflict of interest would prevent her from representing either side in the hearing.
Adams’ letter closes with the following:
“My request is being made because Mr. Head has publicly, in council session and otherwise, made it clear that he is totally biased with the issue before the council, that he has a moral obligation to vote for take down based on his religion, and thus has egregiously exceeded the ethical principles required of his position.
“In addition, the request is being made because there are many who believe Mr. Head would be the deciding vote on this matter and if that is the case, then the fairness of the decision of the council would be in serious question. If he recuses himself, then at least there is an opportunity for the citizens of Thomaston to receive a fair vote on this matter.”
Council voted unanimously last week to take no action on the matter, based on perceived legal ramifications.
Following the council’s Tuesday vote on authorizing funds for legal counsel, the ethics committee will reconvene to choose an attorney and set a date and time for the hearing. The group is required to take final action in not less than 30 days of receipt of the original complaint, according to Wheeler.
“Sometimes things tend to get out of hand,” said ethics committee chairman Ronald VanHouten. “We live and work in the same community, serve the same God, and we all bleed red blood, regardless of our skin color.
“What we’re going to try to do here is see if there were any violations and try to make things better,” VanHouten continued, “because I think all of us want to be united, especially in this age of unrest in this country.”
Committee member Constance Flint said she wants to hear what Head “has to say. He deserves a chance to be here and defend himself.”
Complaints Demand VanHouten Recusal
Impartiality of Ethics Committee Member Now in Question
Published 9-3-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Amid ongoing discussion of R.E. Lee, local radio personality Mickey Thrasher and Russ Wheless have submitted letters to the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee demanding the recusal of member Ronald VanHouten from proceedings involving Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head.
Thrasher, of WTGA Fun 101.1, and Wheless, a 1974 Lee graduate and native of Thomaston, charge that VanHouten, one of three members of the ethics committee, has publicly indicated a 30-year friendship with Head, therefore cannot render an impartial decision regarding alleged violations by Head.
The two other members of the ethics committee are Bob Cochran and Constance Flint.
Ethics complaints initially were filed against Head by Wheless and Steve Adams, a 1966 Lee graduate now living in Atlanta, after Head publicly voiced his opinion on the removal of the R.E. Lee name on the Government Complex, along with two portraits and a set of curtains bearing the Lee name in the adjacent auditorium.
The city council subsequently voted unanimously to take no action in the matter, citing a legal conflict.
Following is the letter submitted by Thrasher:
“As you are aware, ‘A conflict of interest may be defined as any situation where the personal interest of a public official in a matter before them may prevent, or even appear to prevent, them from making an unbiased decision with respect to the matter.’ So all public officials are required to make decisions in a fair and unbiased manner.
“As one of three members of the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee, Mr. VanHouten has been charged with the review and investigation of an ethics complaint against city councilman Doug Head.
“In a televised hearing on the matter on Aug. 27, Mr. VanHouten made it clear that he has maintained a friendship with Mr. Head for 30 years, going as far as to say that they had met together when Mr. Head ran for mayor pro tem. Throughout the meeting, Mr. VanHouten demonstrated his biased opinion by stating that he and Mr. Head were in Kiwanis together and other comments to indicate his close relationship with Doug. He than commented that he thought that if anything, Doug had made an inadvertent mistake in his comments, but he knew Doug was sincere in his beliefs and was only trying to bring unity to the community.
“Those are nice sentiments of one friend for another, but in making such comments Mr. VanHouten seems to be making an argument that Mr. Head should be praised for his efforts instead of there being serious concerns from the citizens of Thomaston that arguably one of their city councilmen had violated his ethics and left them without fair and unbiased representation regarding a matter of great importance to the majority of citizens.
“Ironically, it could be argued that Mr. VanHouten was making the same mistake made by Mr. Head by revealing his bias in favor of Mr. Head before any vote was taken. Therefore, it is requested that Mr. VanHouten recuse himself from these proceedings.”
Portions of Wheless’ letter echoed Thrasher’s concerns:
“I must share that I found the tone and tenor of some of the comments made during last Thursday’s meeting of the ethics committee somewhat troubling and confounding.
“Colloquially speaking, I found many of Mr. VanHouten’s comments to be far too ‘buddy, buddy’ in nature. He spoke about (and seemed to dwell upon at times) his past relationship with and feelings about Mr. Head to such an extent that I began to wonder if he was too close to the situation to hear this complaint.
“…In retrospect, I cannot help but wonder if some of the commentary during Thursday’s proceedings did not indeed send ‘mixed messages’ to the public and cast doubt upon whether this issue will be decided upon impartially.
“In fact, the ‘chummy’ nature of some of the commentary raised the question in the minds of some who listened to the proceedings whether Mr. VanHouten and Mr. Head had spoken in the interlude between the filing of the complaint against Mr. Head by Mr. Adams and last Thursday’s meeting of the ethics committee. Surely this was not the case. However, it might buoy public trust in the process to be reassured on this point.
“Based upon these perspectives, I echo the call made in the complaint filed by Mr. Thrasher for Mr. VanHouten to recuse himself from hearing the complaint against Mr. Head.”
VanHouten told Beacon publisher Debbie McClain that in his opinion, most problems begin with a failure to communicate.
“I very much regret that when an issue is close to people’s hearts, there is no communication between the parties,” he said. “The two who issued complaints against me, Mickey Thrasher and Russell Wheless, did not take the time to call me.
“My biggest disappointment is to be accused of bias because I tried to make Doug comfortable during the hearing and say he is my friend,” VanHouten continued. “I would have done the same for Mickey or anyone in Doug’s place. It is sad we have people with whom we may have differences but choose to use social media to make us out as a villain.
“The irony is that rather than get to the truth, they lose sight of what we are supposed to do. I was trying to be fair,” VanHouten concluded. “If Thrasher, Wheless, and [Lori] Lindsey would look back at Lindsey’s Facebook posting, both my wife and I posted to her question that we were not for changing the name.”
As of press time, a meeting of the ethics committee has not been rescheduled.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Amid ongoing discussion of R.E. Lee, local radio personality Mickey Thrasher and Russ Wheless have submitted letters to the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee demanding the recusal of member Ronald VanHouten from proceedings involving Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head.
Thrasher, of WTGA Fun 101.1, and Wheless, a 1974 Lee graduate and native of Thomaston, charge that VanHouten, one of three members of the ethics committee, has publicly indicated a 30-year friendship with Head, therefore cannot render an impartial decision regarding alleged violations by Head.
The two other members of the ethics committee are Bob Cochran and Constance Flint.
Ethics complaints initially were filed against Head by Wheless and Steve Adams, a 1966 Lee graduate now living in Atlanta, after Head publicly voiced his opinion on the removal of the R.E. Lee name on the Government Complex, along with two portraits and a set of curtains bearing the Lee name in the adjacent auditorium.
The city council subsequently voted unanimously to take no action in the matter, citing a legal conflict.
Following is the letter submitted by Thrasher:
“As you are aware, ‘A conflict of interest may be defined as any situation where the personal interest of a public official in a matter before them may prevent, or even appear to prevent, them from making an unbiased decision with respect to the matter.’ So all public officials are required to make decisions in a fair and unbiased manner.
“As one of three members of the City of Thomaston Ethics Committee, Mr. VanHouten has been charged with the review and investigation of an ethics complaint against city councilman Doug Head.
“In a televised hearing on the matter on Aug. 27, Mr. VanHouten made it clear that he has maintained a friendship with Mr. Head for 30 years, going as far as to say that they had met together when Mr. Head ran for mayor pro tem. Throughout the meeting, Mr. VanHouten demonstrated his biased opinion by stating that he and Mr. Head were in Kiwanis together and other comments to indicate his close relationship with Doug. He than commented that he thought that if anything, Doug had made an inadvertent mistake in his comments, but he knew Doug was sincere in his beliefs and was only trying to bring unity to the community.
“Those are nice sentiments of one friend for another, but in making such comments Mr. VanHouten seems to be making an argument that Mr. Head should be praised for his efforts instead of there being serious concerns from the citizens of Thomaston that arguably one of their city councilmen had violated his ethics and left them without fair and unbiased representation regarding a matter of great importance to the majority of citizens.
“Ironically, it could be argued that Mr. VanHouten was making the same mistake made by Mr. Head by revealing his bias in favor of Mr. Head before any vote was taken. Therefore, it is requested that Mr. VanHouten recuse himself from these proceedings.”
Portions of Wheless’ letter echoed Thrasher’s concerns:
“I must share that I found the tone and tenor of some of the comments made during last Thursday’s meeting of the ethics committee somewhat troubling and confounding.
“Colloquially speaking, I found many of Mr. VanHouten’s comments to be far too ‘buddy, buddy’ in nature. He spoke about (and seemed to dwell upon at times) his past relationship with and feelings about Mr. Head to such an extent that I began to wonder if he was too close to the situation to hear this complaint.
“…In retrospect, I cannot help but wonder if some of the commentary during Thursday’s proceedings did not indeed send ‘mixed messages’ to the public and cast doubt upon whether this issue will be decided upon impartially.
“In fact, the ‘chummy’ nature of some of the commentary raised the question in the minds of some who listened to the proceedings whether Mr. VanHouten and Mr. Head had spoken in the interlude between the filing of the complaint against Mr. Head by Mr. Adams and last Thursday’s meeting of the ethics committee. Surely this was not the case. However, it might buoy public trust in the process to be reassured on this point.
“Based upon these perspectives, I echo the call made in the complaint filed by Mr. Thrasher for Mr. VanHouten to recuse himself from hearing the complaint against Mr. Head.”
VanHouten told Beacon publisher Debbie McClain that in his opinion, most problems begin with a failure to communicate.
“I very much regret that when an issue is close to people’s hearts, there is no communication between the parties,” he said. “The two who issued complaints against me, Mickey Thrasher and Russell Wheless, did not take the time to call me.
“My biggest disappointment is to be accused of bias because I tried to make Doug comfortable during the hearing and say he is my friend,” VanHouten continued. “I would have done the same for Mickey or anyone in Doug’s place. It is sad we have people with whom we may have differences but choose to use social media to make us out as a villain.
“The irony is that rather than get to the truth, they lose sight of what we are supposed to do. I was trying to be fair,” VanHouten concluded. “If Thrasher, Wheless, and [Lori] Lindsey would look back at Lindsey’s Facebook posting, both my wife and I posted to her question that we were not for changing the name.”
As of press time, a meeting of the ethics committee has not been rescheduled.
‘Sometimes We Have to Put Ourselves in Others’ Shoes’
L-R: Jacob Gassett, Jasmine Quiller, Andrea Fortner and Jasmine Danzey
Published 9-3-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
After hearing of the recent murders in Kenosha Wisc., Upson native Jacob Gassett wanted to make a change.
“I was tired of sitting at home acting like nothing was wrong,” commented Gassett. “I decided after work last Thursday to buy a sign and grab some markers and stand on the square.”
During the first few days of holding signs, Gassett says that the community response has been an even mix of “people honking in support… and other people shouting at me and saying all sorts of stupid, bigoted stuff.”
During the protests, one man passing by made negative comments towards Gassett. After responding with a negative gesture, Gassett felt threatened and called the Thomaston Police Department. At the time, Gassett was holding a sign that read, “Black Lives Matter, Blue Lives Don’t Exist.” He has since changed his signs to be less offensive to law enforcement officers.
Two days after he began standing on the square with his signs, other community members joined the protest and added additional signage.
“I know that eventually people are going to ignore me. I don’t want this to become the new normal. Eventually, I’d like to talk to some people who can effect change,” Gassett said. “We have checks and balances for our government but there isn’t really a check or balance for the cops. If a cop is breaking the law or murdering someone, who are you going to call? We need some type of civilian board with some actual teeth that can look into these injustices.”
“It’s not about black versus white,” commented protester Andrea Fortner. “The reason we are out here is because everyone should understand that yes, all lives matter… but the justice system is not set up for black people, or any other race outside of white people. Whenever something happens, it takes someone protesting for justice to be served. That’s not how it should be.”
Protestor Jasmine Quiller shared, “What Caucasian people don’t understand, let’s remix it on you. Let’s think how we feel. Think about how the black families feel when their [family members] are being killed for no reason. What if that was your cousin or your sister? Wouldn’t you feel some type of way?
“Sometimes we have to put ourselves in others’ shoes,” Quiller continued. “Don’t think about your skin color. Think about the Hispanics, think about the Asian people. You can’t just think about yourself or this world will continue to be the way it is. All these Christians out here saying they’re Christian, then they’re racist; you can’t be a Christian and be racist.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
After hearing of the recent murders in Kenosha Wisc., Upson native Jacob Gassett wanted to make a change.
“I was tired of sitting at home acting like nothing was wrong,” commented Gassett. “I decided after work last Thursday to buy a sign and grab some markers and stand on the square.”
During the first few days of holding signs, Gassett says that the community response has been an even mix of “people honking in support… and other people shouting at me and saying all sorts of stupid, bigoted stuff.”
During the protests, one man passing by made negative comments towards Gassett. After responding with a negative gesture, Gassett felt threatened and called the Thomaston Police Department. At the time, Gassett was holding a sign that read, “Black Lives Matter, Blue Lives Don’t Exist.” He has since changed his signs to be less offensive to law enforcement officers.
Two days after he began standing on the square with his signs, other community members joined the protest and added additional signage.
“I know that eventually people are going to ignore me. I don’t want this to become the new normal. Eventually, I’d like to talk to some people who can effect change,” Gassett said. “We have checks and balances for our government but there isn’t really a check or balance for the cops. If a cop is breaking the law or murdering someone, who are you going to call? We need some type of civilian board with some actual teeth that can look into these injustices.”
“It’s not about black versus white,” commented protester Andrea Fortner. “The reason we are out here is because everyone should understand that yes, all lives matter… but the justice system is not set up for black people, or any other race outside of white people. Whenever something happens, it takes someone protesting for justice to be served. That’s not how it should be.”
Protestor Jasmine Quiller shared, “What Caucasian people don’t understand, let’s remix it on you. Let’s think how we feel. Think about how the black families feel when their [family members] are being killed for no reason. What if that was your cousin or your sister? Wouldn’t you feel some type of way?
“Sometimes we have to put ourselves in others’ shoes,” Quiller continued. “Don’t think about your skin color. Think about the Hispanics, think about the Asian people. You can’t just think about yourself or this world will continue to be the way it is. All these Christians out here saying they’re Christian, then they’re racist; you can’t be a Christian and be racist.”
Mayor and Council Vote Unanimously To Take No Action on R.E. Lee Matter
Published 8-27-2020
The following statement by Thomaston Mayor J.D. Stallings was released, on behalf of the city council, Thursday morning. The called meeting of the mayor and council scheduled for Sept. 8 has been canceled.
The City of Thomaston Ethics Committee will meet at 4:30 p.m. today (Aug. 27) to discuss comments made by Mayor Tempore Doug Head during meetings prior to the Aug. 26 vote. The meeting may be viewed on the City of Thomaston’s YouTube site.
“The mayor and council of the City of Thomaston met for a called session on Aug. 26, at which much discussion, deliberation, and thought were given to requests that have been made regarding changes centered around Confederate imagery at the Government Complex. The mayor and council unanimously agreed to the following:
“The city government is exempt from the provisions contained in our local ordinance which require a certificate of appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission. Typically, a certificate of appropriateness is required from the Historic Preservation Commission prior to any material change in the appearance of a historic property, a structure, site, object, or work of art within a historic district. The Government Complex is part of a historic district that was created by a local act, specifically, City Ordinance 818, which was adopted by council on Aug. 17, 1993. State law exempts local governments from having to obtain a certificate of appropriateness. The city government is only required give the commission prior notice of its intent to act.
“City council also recognizes that state law has specific protections for monuments. Given the breadth of definition to the term “monument” in state law, any changes that were requested regarding the Government Complex could be construed contrary to the intent of the statute. As such, the city council unanimously agreed to take no action that would appear to violate the law. The meeting that was scheduled to discuss the matter on Sept. 8 has been canceled.
“The mayor and council do recognize that this is an issue of significant concern and interest to the citizens of Thomaston; both those who support changes, as well as those who do not. The mayor and council appreciate the citizen input that they have received regarding this matter, and want to continue the discussion in hopes that all parties have greater understanding and respect for opposing views and ideologies. The council is going to continue exploring alternatives to address citizen concerns pertaining to this matter and welcomes any public suggestion that leads to community unity. Thomaston is a great town, full of great people who I know can overcome the challenges we face as a society in today’s world.
“The mayor and council wish to express their thanks to City Manager Russell Thompson and City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler for their time, effort and due diligence in researching and reviewing all areas related to the sensitive and complex matter.”
Respectfully,
J. D. Stallings
Mayor, City of Thomaston
The following statement by Thomaston Mayor J.D. Stallings was released, on behalf of the city council, Thursday morning. The called meeting of the mayor and council scheduled for Sept. 8 has been canceled.
The City of Thomaston Ethics Committee will meet at 4:30 p.m. today (Aug. 27) to discuss comments made by Mayor Tempore Doug Head during meetings prior to the Aug. 26 vote. The meeting may be viewed on the City of Thomaston’s YouTube site.
“The mayor and council of the City of Thomaston met for a called session on Aug. 26, at which much discussion, deliberation, and thought were given to requests that have been made regarding changes centered around Confederate imagery at the Government Complex. The mayor and council unanimously agreed to the following:
“The city government is exempt from the provisions contained in our local ordinance which require a certificate of appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission. Typically, a certificate of appropriateness is required from the Historic Preservation Commission prior to any material change in the appearance of a historic property, a structure, site, object, or work of art within a historic district. The Government Complex is part of a historic district that was created by a local act, specifically, City Ordinance 818, which was adopted by council on Aug. 17, 1993. State law exempts local governments from having to obtain a certificate of appropriateness. The city government is only required give the commission prior notice of its intent to act.
“City council also recognizes that state law has specific protections for monuments. Given the breadth of definition to the term “monument” in state law, any changes that were requested regarding the Government Complex could be construed contrary to the intent of the statute. As such, the city council unanimously agreed to take no action that would appear to violate the law. The meeting that was scheduled to discuss the matter on Sept. 8 has been canceled.
“The mayor and council do recognize that this is an issue of significant concern and interest to the citizens of Thomaston; both those who support changes, as well as those who do not. The mayor and council appreciate the citizen input that they have received regarding this matter, and want to continue the discussion in hopes that all parties have greater understanding and respect for opposing views and ideologies. The council is going to continue exploring alternatives to address citizen concerns pertaining to this matter and welcomes any public suggestion that leads to community unity. Thomaston is a great town, full of great people who I know can overcome the challenges we face as a society in today’s world.
“The mayor and council wish to express their thanks to City Manager Russell Thompson and City Attorney DeAnn Wheeler for their time, effort and due diligence in researching and reviewing all areas related to the sensitive and complex matter.”
Respectfully,
J. D. Stallings
Mayor, City of Thomaston
Tidal Wave Auto Spa Among Nation’s Fastest Growing Private Companies
On the heels of opening its 50th auto spa, Tidal Wave was named to the 2020 Inc. 5000 list for America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies.
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Published 8-27-2020
Tidal Wave Auto Spa was named to the 2020 Inc. 5000 list for America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies. The prestigious ranking represents the nation’s most successful companies and Tidal Wave Auto Spa has ranked in the top 33 percent at number 1,657. The 2020 Inc. 5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2016 and 2019. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment - its independent small businesses. Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. “I am very honored that we have made the 2020 Inc. 5000 list. Numerous manufacturers have won awards from this community over the years and it reemphasizes what a great community Thomaston is to headquarter a business,” Scott Blackstock said. “I am very proud of my Tidal Wave team, our community, and of course our customers who support us to make this happen.” Tidal Wave Auto Spa, with 51 locations across eight states and 18 more under construction, began in 2004 and is headquartered in downtown Thomaston. Locations span the Southeast, including Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Texas. In the Midwest there are locations in Missouri and Kansas. |
Scott Blackstock, CEO and Founder of Tidal Wave Auto Spa, was chosen by the United States Small Business Association to represent the State of Georgia in Washington, D.C. where Scott was honored as Georgia’s Small Business “Person of the Year” in 2009. He has served on Georgia Congressman Lynn Westmoreland’s Small Business Advisory Board and was chosen by the United States Navy as a member of the “Key Influencers” program. Blackstock continues to give back through multiple charities in Thomaston and throughout the company’s service areas.
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R.E. Lee Saga: ‘…Where It Will End’
Published 8-27-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head summarized the ongoing discussion of the R.E. Lee name on the Government Complex with three statements last week: “It’s a complicated problem to solve. There is no perfect answer. A lot of talk is about where it will end.”
Conversations may continue indefinitely, but the city’s involvement may end in cyberspace Sept. 8 when Thomaston’s mayor and council will host a virtual special called meeting to decide the fate of five letters, two portraits and a set of curtains.
Or perhaps not. A press release from city officials last week stated the group “will discuss and potentially take action.”
Meanwhile, council members continue to solicit feedback from the public.
“The issue has passion on both sides,” said Head, who has come under fire for alleged ethics violations regarding the Lee matter. “I think we can lead the way and be an example for other communities in Georgia if we come to an agreement and do this right.”
Head added that the group requesting removal of R.E. Lee from the historic building offered to compromise.
“There is also willingness for the Drake name [on the adjacent building] to be removed and pictures of black leaders to be moved to the African American Museum,” Head explained. “I think there’s no interest in seeing street names changed.”
In addition to the R.E. Lee name on the complex, the group asks that portraits of Robert E. Lee and John B. Gordon and stage curtains bearing the Lee name be removed.
City officials previously voiced intent to hold a town hall at the civic center, which could accommodate approximately 160 people adhering to social distancing guidelines. Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson, who attended last week’s council meeting, offered his prediction.
“I think you can expect to exceed an acceptable number at the civic center for distancing,” Richardson said, reminding council that more than 3,000 names had been attached to online and paper petitions.
Council members agreed to hear public comments by email, telephone, video or mail until Aug. 31, allowing a week to weigh input prior to the 3 p.m. meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8.
“My main concern is hearing from my constituents,” councilman Ryan Tucker said. “I’m not discounting anyone’s position, but I was elected to represent the opinions of the people in my district.”
Head mentioned a time capsule that was buried on the grounds by an R.E. Lee graduating class, and intended to be opened in 2025. The monument marking the location of the capsule and two benches in front of the building are not part of the removal request, he said.
“I thought it was important to search out what is important to the black community that needs to be done,” Head stated. “Also, for both sides, what are the limits? As people respond, [I hope they] think in those terms.”
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head summarized the ongoing discussion of the R.E. Lee name on the Government Complex with three statements last week: “It’s a complicated problem to solve. There is no perfect answer. A lot of talk is about where it will end.”
Conversations may continue indefinitely, but the city’s involvement may end in cyberspace Sept. 8 when Thomaston’s mayor and council will host a virtual special called meeting to decide the fate of five letters, two portraits and a set of curtains.
Or perhaps not. A press release from city officials last week stated the group “will discuss and potentially take action.”
Meanwhile, council members continue to solicit feedback from the public.
“The issue has passion on both sides,” said Head, who has come under fire for alleged ethics violations regarding the Lee matter. “I think we can lead the way and be an example for other communities in Georgia if we come to an agreement and do this right.”
Head added that the group requesting removal of R.E. Lee from the historic building offered to compromise.
“There is also willingness for the Drake name [on the adjacent building] to be removed and pictures of black leaders to be moved to the African American Museum,” Head explained. “I think there’s no interest in seeing street names changed.”
In addition to the R.E. Lee name on the complex, the group asks that portraits of Robert E. Lee and John B. Gordon and stage curtains bearing the Lee name be removed.
City officials previously voiced intent to hold a town hall at the civic center, which could accommodate approximately 160 people adhering to social distancing guidelines. Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson, who attended last week’s council meeting, offered his prediction.
“I think you can expect to exceed an acceptable number at the civic center for distancing,” Richardson said, reminding council that more than 3,000 names had been attached to online and paper petitions.
Council members agreed to hear public comments by email, telephone, video or mail until Aug. 31, allowing a week to weigh input prior to the 3 p.m. meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8.
“My main concern is hearing from my constituents,” councilman Ryan Tucker said. “I’m not discounting anyone’s position, but I was elected to represent the opinions of the people in my district.”
Head mentioned a time capsule that was buried on the grounds by an R.E. Lee graduating class, and intended to be opened in 2025. The monument marking the location of the capsule and two benches in front of the building are not part of the removal request, he said.
“I thought it was important to search out what is important to the black community that needs to be done,” Head stated. “Also, for both sides, what are the limits? As people respond, [I hope they] think in those terms.”
Council Called Meeting on
Lee Issue Set Sept. 8
Deadline to Submit Public Comments is Monday
Published 8-27-2020
The mayor and city council have scheduled a virtual “special called meeting” for 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 regarding the R.E. Lee name, which appears on the Government Complex, and other items of public debate, according to a press release from the City of Thomaston.
City officials “will discuss and potentially take action on requests that the R.E. Lee name be removed from the complex, the two portraits in the auditorium be moved to the archives, and other items likewise be removed from formal public setting where governmental business takes place,” the release states.
Officials cited health concerns surrounding COVID-19 when announcing that there will be no public comments at the meeting.
“Out of abundance of caution regarding COVID-19 and in anticipation of a large crowd, the meeting will be held virtually, and the public may view the meeting live at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRlF8V1o6j-67nNYbOysNwg,” the statement explained.
Public comments may be submitted to the mayor and council by email, telephone, video recording, or mail no later than Monday, Aug. 31.
“The mayor and council are sincerely interested in hearing from citizens and constituents prior to the meeting date,” according to the release. “Mayor and council have requested that citizens and constituents contact them… also requested that citizens and constituents please include their name and physical address on any correspondence.”
Those who are unsure who represents their district may find the information by visiting https://gis.cityofthomaston.com/portal/apps/InformationLookup/index.html?appid=4714b27a6e21448a9da7d4bab584ed71. A link is available on the city’s website and Facebook page.
Anyone wishing to submit a video should contact the city manager’s office at 706-647-4242 for processing purposes. Following is phone and email information for mayor and council:
•Mayor J.D. Stallings: 706-975-8704, JDStallings@cityofthomaston.com
•Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head: 706-656-2371, DHead@cityofthomaston.com
•District 1 Rep Lakeitha Reeves: 706-647-7771, LReeves@cityofthomaston.com
•District 2 Rep Jeff Middlebrooks: 706-741-6239, JWMiddlebrooks@cityofthomaston.com
•District 3 Rep Ryan Tucker: 404-406-8679, RTucker@cityofthomaston.com
•District 4 Rep Don Greathouse: 706-975-2541, DonGreathouse@cityofthomaston.com
By mail for all members except Reeves, please address to P.O. Box 672, Thomaston, GA 30286; for Reeves, please address to 501 East Walker Street, Thomaston, GA 30286.
The mayor and city council have scheduled a virtual “special called meeting” for 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 regarding the R.E. Lee name, which appears on the Government Complex, and other items of public debate, according to a press release from the City of Thomaston.
City officials “will discuss and potentially take action on requests that the R.E. Lee name be removed from the complex, the two portraits in the auditorium be moved to the archives, and other items likewise be removed from formal public setting where governmental business takes place,” the release states.
Officials cited health concerns surrounding COVID-19 when announcing that there will be no public comments at the meeting.
“Out of abundance of caution regarding COVID-19 and in anticipation of a large crowd, the meeting will be held virtually, and the public may view the meeting live at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRlF8V1o6j-67nNYbOysNwg,” the statement explained.
Public comments may be submitted to the mayor and council by email, telephone, video recording, or mail no later than Monday, Aug. 31.
“The mayor and council are sincerely interested in hearing from citizens and constituents prior to the meeting date,” according to the release. “Mayor and council have requested that citizens and constituents contact them… also requested that citizens and constituents please include their name and physical address on any correspondence.”
Those who are unsure who represents their district may find the information by visiting https://gis.cityofthomaston.com/portal/apps/InformationLookup/index.html?appid=4714b27a6e21448a9da7d4bab584ed71. A link is available on the city’s website and Facebook page.
Anyone wishing to submit a video should contact the city manager’s office at 706-647-4242 for processing purposes. Following is phone and email information for mayor and council:
•Mayor J.D. Stallings: 706-975-8704, JDStallings@cityofthomaston.com
•Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head: 706-656-2371, DHead@cityofthomaston.com
•District 1 Rep Lakeitha Reeves: 706-647-7771, LReeves@cityofthomaston.com
•District 2 Rep Jeff Middlebrooks: 706-741-6239, JWMiddlebrooks@cityofthomaston.com
•District 3 Rep Ryan Tucker: 404-406-8679, RTucker@cityofthomaston.com
•District 4 Rep Don Greathouse: 706-975-2541, DonGreathouse@cityofthomaston.com
By mail for all members except Reeves, please address to P.O. Box 672, Thomaston, GA 30286; for Reeves, please address to 501 East Walker Street, Thomaston, GA 30286.
Chastain Files Suit
Against Allen, County
Andy Chastain
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Norman Allen
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Published 8-20-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain has filed civil action against Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, the Board of Tax Assessors, and Upson County, according to documents obtained by The Upson Beacon.
In the suit, Chastain alleges that around July 2017 a “disgruntled” taxpayer entered the tax assessor’s office and made a personal threat to harm him. Concerned for his safety and the safety of his family and property, Chastain requested that Upson County suppress his personal public information, pursuant to Georgia law.
The request was granted, which is “not uncommon” for public officials in Georgia counties, the suit states.
In April 2020, Allen “demanded” that Upson County and the chief tax appraiser of the board of assessors un-suppress Chastain’s personal information and again make it publicly available on qPublic website, the suit claims. The document further states that “there is no justification” for Allen’s direction to un-suppress or for the county and board of assessors to do so.
“Allen gave the direction… as an attempt to intimidate, injure, and silence Chastain,” the suit alleges. “Chastain openly supported Allen’s opposition in the upcoming election for chairman… Allen further sought to control Chastain’s professional duties” as tax commissioner.
“Allen has furthered his campaign to intimidate, injure, and silence Chastain by openly telling third parties, including during public meetings of the board… that Chastain is an adversary to the Board of Commissioners and that he is unfit for his job,” the suit claims.
Among Chastain’s allegations against Allen are ethics violation and defamation, and Chastain is seeking punitive damages and attorney’s fees.
“Allen’s actions showed willful and intentional misconduct, fraud, and/or conscious indifference to the consequences that his actions would have on Chastain,” the document states. “Allen also acted with specific intent to harm Chastain… Therefore, Chastain is entitled to an award of punitive damages that is not subject to the ordinary cap of $250,000,” the suit reads.
Chastain claims that he has twice requested a public hearing concerning Allen’s alleged ethics violation, and his request was denied both times. Chastain also claims that a request was denied verbally by the county attorney (English Law Firm) regarding representation.
“The county attorney… has a conflict of interest which would ethically prevent him from representing Allen, Upson County, and Chastain in this civil case,” the suit states. “Chastain has made written request for Upson County to pay the reasonable fees of his individual legal counsel with regards to this matter.
“Said written request was denied verbally by the Upson County attorney via a telephone conversation between the county attorney and the undersigned counsel [Bradley A. Hutchins and D. Andrew Folkner of Atlanta] for Chastain,” the suit contends.
Chastain has requested a determination by the Chief Judge of the Superior Court of Upson County that an ethical conflict exists, and that Chastain be authorized to employ individual legal counsel to represent himself.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain has filed civil action against Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, the Board of Tax Assessors, and Upson County, according to documents obtained by The Upson Beacon.
In the suit, Chastain alleges that around July 2017 a “disgruntled” taxpayer entered the tax assessor’s office and made a personal threat to harm him. Concerned for his safety and the safety of his family and property, Chastain requested that Upson County suppress his personal public information, pursuant to Georgia law.
The request was granted, which is “not uncommon” for public officials in Georgia counties, the suit states.
In April 2020, Allen “demanded” that Upson County and the chief tax appraiser of the board of assessors un-suppress Chastain’s personal information and again make it publicly available on qPublic website, the suit claims. The document further states that “there is no justification” for Allen’s direction to un-suppress or for the county and board of assessors to do so.
“Allen gave the direction… as an attempt to intimidate, injure, and silence Chastain,” the suit alleges. “Chastain openly supported Allen’s opposition in the upcoming election for chairman… Allen further sought to control Chastain’s professional duties” as tax commissioner.
“Allen has furthered his campaign to intimidate, injure, and silence Chastain by openly telling third parties, including during public meetings of the board… that Chastain is an adversary to the Board of Commissioners and that he is unfit for his job,” the suit claims.
Among Chastain’s allegations against Allen are ethics violation and defamation, and Chastain is seeking punitive damages and attorney’s fees.
“Allen’s actions showed willful and intentional misconduct, fraud, and/or conscious indifference to the consequences that his actions would have on Chastain,” the document states. “Allen also acted with specific intent to harm Chastain… Therefore, Chastain is entitled to an award of punitive damages that is not subject to the ordinary cap of $250,000,” the suit reads.
Chastain claims that he has twice requested a public hearing concerning Allen’s alleged ethics violation, and his request was denied both times. Chastain also claims that a request was denied verbally by the county attorney (English Law Firm) regarding representation.
“The county attorney… has a conflict of interest which would ethically prevent him from representing Allen, Upson County, and Chastain in this civil case,” the suit states. “Chastain has made written request for Upson County to pay the reasonable fees of his individual legal counsel with regards to this matter.
“Said written request was denied verbally by the Upson County attorney via a telephone conversation between the county attorney and the undersigned counsel [Bradley A. Hutchins and D. Andrew Folkner of Atlanta] for Chastain,” the suit contends.
Chastain has requested a determination by the Chief Judge of the Superior Court of Upson County that an ethical conflict exists, and that Chastain be authorized to employ individual legal counsel to represent himself.
City Plans Town Hall,
Head States Position
Property Owner Files Ethics Complaint,
Requests Head’s Recusal on ‘Lee’ Vote
Published 8-20-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
In a YouTube livestreamed meeting last week, the Thomaston City Council agreed to host a town hall to discuss removal of the R.E. Lee name and other items from the Government Complex, and to invite the Upson County Commission to participate.
The county commission declined.
Council members indicated that the town hall likely would be held at the civic center to allow social distancing, and suggested multiple rules of decorum which would hold redundancy to a minimum. Among suggestions were a five-minute maximum time per speaker, a limit on the number of speakers, and a limit on the length of the meeting.
Date, time, and location for the town hall have not been set.
Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head said that each member of council should be allotted time for a statement at the town hall, and added at the end of last week’s meeting that he would like for his current comments to be “on the record.”
“In the interest of full disclosure, I want to let everyone know that in my family, I have strong connections to both the Confederacy and R.E. Lee Institute… I am related to General Robert E. Lee through my father’s side,” Head said at the beginning of a lengthy statement.
“…For us [council], we are asked to reconsider the R.E. Lee name that is on our government buildings, and the portraits and curtains that remain there inside. It brings us to the question, ‘Do we feel it is right to have Robert E. Lee’s name on the building that is the space that houses the governments that represent all our people?’,” Head asked later during his comments. “We find ourselves at a place in time where we are asked to make a decision about these names and symbols which mean different things to different people.
“It is my opinion that the sentimentality that surrounds all the memories that we have for this school is not a strong enough reason to leave these symbols here when they represent a painful part of history for a whole group of our citizens,” Head continued. “It is a public building now, and has been for almost 30 years, that represents all of our people, not just some.
“I would like to ask that the city and county, or representatives of each body, get together and discuss these things,” Head concluded. “Let’s sit down and find a better and more appropriate place, like the archives, for these historical items, and let’s seek to become an example for other cities.”
Head’s complete statement is below at, upsonbeacon.com.
Since the comment, an ethics complaint has been filed against Head by Steve Adams of Buford, Ga., who describes himself as a 1966 graduate of R.E. Lee Institute and owner of a home and property in Thomaston.
Adams’ letter, addressed to the mayor and five council members, closes as follows:
“…On behalf of myself and the citizens of Thomaston, I am hereby demanding that Mr. Head be investigated by the Thomaston City Ethics Committee and that he be made to recuse himself from voting on any matter that has to do with the removal of R.E. Lee from the city building and the removal of any and all pictures that have been requested to be removed. Furthermore, I am requesting that he recuse himself if, at a later date, there is a petition to remove statues from the Thomaston square.
“My request is being made because Mr. Head has publicly, in council session and otherwise, made it clear that he is totally biased with the issue before the council… the fairness of the decision of the council would be in serious question. If he recuses himself, then at least there is an opportunity for the citizens of Thomaston to receive a fair vote on this matter.”
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
In a YouTube livestreamed meeting last week, the Thomaston City Council agreed to host a town hall to discuss removal of the R.E. Lee name and other items from the Government Complex, and to invite the Upson County Commission to participate.
The county commission declined.
Council members indicated that the town hall likely would be held at the civic center to allow social distancing, and suggested multiple rules of decorum which would hold redundancy to a minimum. Among suggestions were a five-minute maximum time per speaker, a limit on the number of speakers, and a limit on the length of the meeting.
Date, time, and location for the town hall have not been set.
Mayor Pro Tem Doug Head said that each member of council should be allotted time for a statement at the town hall, and added at the end of last week’s meeting that he would like for his current comments to be “on the record.”
“In the interest of full disclosure, I want to let everyone know that in my family, I have strong connections to both the Confederacy and R.E. Lee Institute… I am related to General Robert E. Lee through my father’s side,” Head said at the beginning of a lengthy statement.
“…For us [council], we are asked to reconsider the R.E. Lee name that is on our government buildings, and the portraits and curtains that remain there inside. It brings us to the question, ‘Do we feel it is right to have Robert E. Lee’s name on the building that is the space that houses the governments that represent all our people?’,” Head asked later during his comments. “We find ourselves at a place in time where we are asked to make a decision about these names and symbols which mean different things to different people.
“It is my opinion that the sentimentality that surrounds all the memories that we have for this school is not a strong enough reason to leave these symbols here when they represent a painful part of history for a whole group of our citizens,” Head continued. “It is a public building now, and has been for almost 30 years, that represents all of our people, not just some.
“I would like to ask that the city and county, or representatives of each body, get together and discuss these things,” Head concluded. “Let’s sit down and find a better and more appropriate place, like the archives, for these historical items, and let’s seek to become an example for other cities.”
Head’s complete statement is below at, upsonbeacon.com.
Since the comment, an ethics complaint has been filed against Head by Steve Adams of Buford, Ga., who describes himself as a 1966 graduate of R.E. Lee Institute and owner of a home and property in Thomaston.
Adams’ letter, addressed to the mayor and five council members, closes as follows:
“…On behalf of myself and the citizens of Thomaston, I am hereby demanding that Mr. Head be investigated by the Thomaston City Ethics Committee and that he be made to recuse himself from voting on any matter that has to do with the removal of R.E. Lee from the city building and the removal of any and all pictures that have been requested to be removed. Furthermore, I am requesting that he recuse himself if, at a later date, there is a petition to remove statues from the Thomaston square.
“My request is being made because Mr. Head has publicly, in council session and otherwise, made it clear that he is totally biased with the issue before the council… the fairness of the decision of the council would be in serious question. If he recuses himself, then at least there is an opportunity for the citizens of Thomaston to receive a fair vote on this matter.”
Shown above is the facade of the former R.E. Lee Institute, known today as the Thomaston-Upson Government Administration Complex.
County Defers to City on ‘Lee’ Issue
Allen: ‘We do not have our heads in the sand’
Published 8-20-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
At the end of last week’s Upson County Commission meeting, Chairman Norman Allen voiced his opinion that the R.E. Lee name and portrait issue originated with the Thomaston City Council, and he expects council members to make a decision before commissioners become involved.
In a YouTube livestreamed meeting of the mayor and council last week, council members agreed to invite county commissioners to attend a proposed town hall to debate whether the name should remain on the Government Complex, former home of R.E. Lee Institute. Most city officials attended remotely from their homes, quarantined with COVID-19.
The invitation, signed by Mayor J.D. Stallings, read as follows:
“…Specifically, two of our elected members have requested the R.E. Lee name be removed, the two portraits in the auditorium be moved to the archives, and other items likewise be removed from formal public setting where the conduct of governmental business takes place. As part of the decorum conversation at tonight’s meeting, the fact that the building is jointly owned came up, as well as the fact that any changes should necessitate affirmative action of both political bodies. To that effect, the city council invites the board of commissioners to discuss the issue as a collective body, as co-owners, and as jointly responsible parties regarding these matters.
“The format, and official process for such a meeting was considered, but should not be solidified, until such time as we have a response from your group to consider the commissioners’ input. The council discussed time restrictions for participant speech, limitations for redundancy, etc. As you well know, the current pandemic and grouping restrictions are somewhat problematic as we consider the overall process. Please consider this correspondence as a formal request for a joint meeting of the mayor and city council of the City of Thomaston and the Upson County Board of Commissioners to discuss the aforementioned issues. Any consideration, suggestion, or otherwise input that you may give regarding this request will be greatly appreciated!”
Allen’s comments came later that same day.
“We can’t ignore the elephant in our community… this issue is before the city council,” he said after being asked to participate in a joint town hall. “This whole momentum started, quite frankly, with a couple of council members… this is your issue.”
City offices on the west side of the Government Complex remained closed recently for more than a week because most staff members, including Mayor Stallings and City Manager Russell Thompson, tested positive for coronavirus.
“We [county commissioners] agreed that we thought the approach to this from the onset was… you [city council] decide what you want to do as a body,” Allen stated. “And when you decide, collectively as a body, then we’ll engage.”
A heated debate on social media and throughout the community has surrounded the R.E. Lee issue, with petitions circulating on both sides. Allen said county officials are involved in discussions, despite their reluctance to attend a town hall.
“That doesn’t mean that we are immune to the conversations in our community,” he said. “We’re all getting phone calls and emails, we’re engaged in the conversations, and we understand all sides of this issue. We’re not ignoring the issue, we just want that body to decide.”
Early in the pandemic, city council members voted to suspend the “public comments” portion of regular meetings in adherence to social distancing guidelines. Citing ongoing health concerns, the council has not reinstated public comments. But in the city’s called meeting, members agreed to schedule a town hall within a month at the civic center, where distancing may be possible.
“I know how hard it is for us sometimes, as a body of five, to reach a consensus on contentious issues,” Allen explained. “If you have a group of 11, it’s harder. But we do not have our heads in the sand. We are open to having discussions.”
Earlier in the meeting, County Manager Jason Tinsley read a correspondence submitted by a resident who opposes the name change and suggested the fate of R.E. Lee be decided by a countywide vote. At the end of his correspondence, the resident stated, “There are other things to be done.”
Allen’s official response to the invitation was sent to Stallings the next day:
“Thank you for the invitation to join you and city council for a discussion of the issues being raised by several council members regarding the building name, the portraits and other items being considered for removal from the City-County Government Complex.
“At this time, the board of commissioners respectfully declines your invitation to participate in this meeting. Council should have the opportunity to independently decide on any potential actions regarding this matter. We continue to field questions and concerns from our constituents, and should council formally take action, we will review and take action as may be required.”
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
At the end of last week’s Upson County Commission meeting, Chairman Norman Allen voiced his opinion that the R.E. Lee name and portrait issue originated with the Thomaston City Council, and he expects council members to make a decision before commissioners become involved.
In a YouTube livestreamed meeting of the mayor and council last week, council members agreed to invite county commissioners to attend a proposed town hall to debate whether the name should remain on the Government Complex, former home of R.E. Lee Institute. Most city officials attended remotely from their homes, quarantined with COVID-19.
The invitation, signed by Mayor J.D. Stallings, read as follows:
“…Specifically, two of our elected members have requested the R.E. Lee name be removed, the two portraits in the auditorium be moved to the archives, and other items likewise be removed from formal public setting where the conduct of governmental business takes place. As part of the decorum conversation at tonight’s meeting, the fact that the building is jointly owned came up, as well as the fact that any changes should necessitate affirmative action of both political bodies. To that effect, the city council invites the board of commissioners to discuss the issue as a collective body, as co-owners, and as jointly responsible parties regarding these matters.
“The format, and official process for such a meeting was considered, but should not be solidified, until such time as we have a response from your group to consider the commissioners’ input. The council discussed time restrictions for participant speech, limitations for redundancy, etc. As you well know, the current pandemic and grouping restrictions are somewhat problematic as we consider the overall process. Please consider this correspondence as a formal request for a joint meeting of the mayor and city council of the City of Thomaston and the Upson County Board of Commissioners to discuss the aforementioned issues. Any consideration, suggestion, or otherwise input that you may give regarding this request will be greatly appreciated!”
Allen’s comments came later that same day.
“We can’t ignore the elephant in our community… this issue is before the city council,” he said after being asked to participate in a joint town hall. “This whole momentum started, quite frankly, with a couple of council members… this is your issue.”
City offices on the west side of the Government Complex remained closed recently for more than a week because most staff members, including Mayor Stallings and City Manager Russell Thompson, tested positive for coronavirus.
“We [county commissioners] agreed that we thought the approach to this from the onset was… you [city council] decide what you want to do as a body,” Allen stated. “And when you decide, collectively as a body, then we’ll engage.”
A heated debate on social media and throughout the community has surrounded the R.E. Lee issue, with petitions circulating on both sides. Allen said county officials are involved in discussions, despite their reluctance to attend a town hall.
“That doesn’t mean that we are immune to the conversations in our community,” he said. “We’re all getting phone calls and emails, we’re engaged in the conversations, and we understand all sides of this issue. We’re not ignoring the issue, we just want that body to decide.”
Early in the pandemic, city council members voted to suspend the “public comments” portion of regular meetings in adherence to social distancing guidelines. Citing ongoing health concerns, the council has not reinstated public comments. But in the city’s called meeting, members agreed to schedule a town hall within a month at the civic center, where distancing may be possible.
“I know how hard it is for us sometimes, as a body of five, to reach a consensus on contentious issues,” Allen explained. “If you have a group of 11, it’s harder. But we do not have our heads in the sand. We are open to having discussions.”
Earlier in the meeting, County Manager Jason Tinsley read a correspondence submitted by a resident who opposes the name change and suggested the fate of R.E. Lee be decided by a countywide vote. At the end of his correspondence, the resident stated, “There are other things to be done.”
Allen’s official response to the invitation was sent to Stallings the next day:
“Thank you for the invitation to join you and city council for a discussion of the issues being raised by several council members regarding the building name, the portraits and other items being considered for removal from the City-County Government Complex.
“At this time, the board of commissioners respectfully declines your invitation to participate in this meeting. Council should have the opportunity to independently decide on any potential actions regarding this matter. We continue to field questions and concerns from our constituents, and should council formally take action, we will review and take action as may be required.”
Ole Molly Still Makes Dreams Come True
Published 8-20-2020
By Jeff Sanders
For many years, the cities of Thomaston and Griffin had unique relationships. They often loaned each other equipment such as fire trucks, police cars and motorcycles, bucket trucks and other equipment in times of need. Experienced employees were also loaned during critical shortages. These cities often trained together on a regular basis and, as such, were the firemen.
Known as the Tri-State Fire Schools, the cities of Griffin, Thomaston and Forest Park hosted weekend and quarterly drills. Each of these cities had modern, functional, civil defense organizations that supported and attended many of those classes and drills and provided additional equipment and instruction.
Other cities like Perry, Warner Robins, LaGrange, Manchester, Newnan and others also attended and worked together. During major fires and other disasters, many of these departments responded to aid the other.
Following WWII, Thomaston sent its second fire engine, a 1937 homemade Chevrolet, to the American La France shop in Atlanta for upgrades. During those three weeks, the City of Griffin loaned Thomaston its 1931 Seagrave Engine to supplement Ole Molly, Thomaston’s first fire engine. In those weeks, Thomaston firemen fought two major fires, the Black Building and the W.R. Andrews Laundry. Using Ole Molly and Griffin’s Seagrave, no other buildings were lost during those blazes.
The relationship between Thomaston and Griffin came to a halt several ago with a change in government administration. After finding Ole Molly, Griffin Fire Chief Tommy Jones asked if I could help find their old Seagrave. Of Course I jumped at the opportunity!
Eight years have passed and though the search continues, I haven’t found her yet. During those years I have remained in at least monthly contact with Chief Jones following up on leads.
In January of this year, Chief Jones told me he was preparing the city for his retirement and had a special request. If their old engine couldn’t be found, he wanted to ride tailboard on Ole Molly with his dear friend and mentor, retired Battalion Chief Rick Rickerson.
Griffin Fire Department is rich in its firefighting history, as most modern fire departments are across the country. Knowing the history of Ole Molly and their Old Seagrave is why he chose Thomaston’s first motorized fire engine.
The plan was for him and Rickerson to ride tailboard with me driving from Station One on East Chappell Street to the old Station One/City Hall on the corner of Sixth and Solomon Streets. Wow, what an honor! He then hit me with the bombshell that his retirement celebration was scheduled on March 13.
Many details needed to be worked out and obstacles overcome in a short timeframe. The first obstacle was getting permission from Thomaston City Manager Russell Thompson. The second was how to get Ole Molly from The Rock Ranch to Griffin and back. Driving was out of the question. With a top speed of 35 mph, the vehicle has no windshield or side review mirrors, not to mention I needed a driver as I was unable to use the clutch due to a foot injury.
Back to obstacle one. I arranged a meeting with the city manager and explained the request. His first question was why should we help Griffin with this request. After explaining the relationship between the two cities in years gone by this could at least be a step in the right direction to mend the relationship.
He then asked if I could make it happen and I assured him I could. I had a driver who would volunteer his time, I would have Ole Molly hauled from The Rock Ranch to Griffin and back and she would be housed in Griffin Station One until the return trip. What a sigh of relief when he said, “Let’s do it.”
The second obstacle was met with the help of P&D Enterprise of Griffin. Not only did they send a first class heavy equipment lowboy to haul Ole Molly but sent their best driver/operator. Jason Dodson was the most caring operator I have ever met. He took special care of Ole Molly as if she belonged to him.
Once they arrived at Griffin Station One, Jason carefully unloaded her and drove her into the station. While in the care of the Griffin firefighters, Ole Molly was cared for as if she belonged to them and shined throughout the event.
My good friend Josh Akins volunteered his time off to drive Ole Molly during the retirement celebration procession, a dream come true for him as he would be the first Thomaston firefighter to drive her in 54 years.
As the celebration began, six firefighters boarded the engine for the ride to old station one. As planned, retiring Chief Jones and retired Battalion Chief Rickerson were on the tailboard. FAO Josh Akins was driving and I was riding seat (bell rope in hand). Unknowing to Chief Jones, I was about to experience a lifelong dream of getting to ride Ole Molly in transit and ring the bell! On the right side running board standing was Deputy Chief John Hamilton and one the left running board standing was Captain Michael Thompson.
We left station one following a bagpiper, a group of firefighters and fire apparatus with Ole Molly in the middle. What a sight to see as we all came across the historic Sixth Street Bridge! As we arrived at the historic Old Station/City Hall banquet area, Chief Jones asked that Molly be backed into the bay that once housed their old ’31 Seagrave engine and next to their new mini-pumper.
Hundreds attended and it was an awesome celebration for my comrade. As stated by Griffin City Manager Kenny Smith, it was a great honor to have the City of Thomaston loan them Ole Molly for their event and would be forever grateful! Thanks to everyone who helped make dreams come true on this special day!
By Jeff Sanders
For many years, the cities of Thomaston and Griffin had unique relationships. They often loaned each other equipment such as fire trucks, police cars and motorcycles, bucket trucks and other equipment in times of need. Experienced employees were also loaned during critical shortages. These cities often trained together on a regular basis and, as such, were the firemen.
Known as the Tri-State Fire Schools, the cities of Griffin, Thomaston and Forest Park hosted weekend and quarterly drills. Each of these cities had modern, functional, civil defense organizations that supported and attended many of those classes and drills and provided additional equipment and instruction.
Other cities like Perry, Warner Robins, LaGrange, Manchester, Newnan and others also attended and worked together. During major fires and other disasters, many of these departments responded to aid the other.
Following WWII, Thomaston sent its second fire engine, a 1937 homemade Chevrolet, to the American La France shop in Atlanta for upgrades. During those three weeks, the City of Griffin loaned Thomaston its 1931 Seagrave Engine to supplement Ole Molly, Thomaston’s first fire engine. In those weeks, Thomaston firemen fought two major fires, the Black Building and the W.R. Andrews Laundry. Using Ole Molly and Griffin’s Seagrave, no other buildings were lost during those blazes.
The relationship between Thomaston and Griffin came to a halt several ago with a change in government administration. After finding Ole Molly, Griffin Fire Chief Tommy Jones asked if I could help find their old Seagrave. Of Course I jumped at the opportunity!
Eight years have passed and though the search continues, I haven’t found her yet. During those years I have remained in at least monthly contact with Chief Jones following up on leads.
In January of this year, Chief Jones told me he was preparing the city for his retirement and had a special request. If their old engine couldn’t be found, he wanted to ride tailboard on Ole Molly with his dear friend and mentor, retired Battalion Chief Rick Rickerson.
Griffin Fire Department is rich in its firefighting history, as most modern fire departments are across the country. Knowing the history of Ole Molly and their Old Seagrave is why he chose Thomaston’s first motorized fire engine.
The plan was for him and Rickerson to ride tailboard with me driving from Station One on East Chappell Street to the old Station One/City Hall on the corner of Sixth and Solomon Streets. Wow, what an honor! He then hit me with the bombshell that his retirement celebration was scheduled on March 13.
Many details needed to be worked out and obstacles overcome in a short timeframe. The first obstacle was getting permission from Thomaston City Manager Russell Thompson. The second was how to get Ole Molly from The Rock Ranch to Griffin and back. Driving was out of the question. With a top speed of 35 mph, the vehicle has no windshield or side review mirrors, not to mention I needed a driver as I was unable to use the clutch due to a foot injury.
Back to obstacle one. I arranged a meeting with the city manager and explained the request. His first question was why should we help Griffin with this request. After explaining the relationship between the two cities in years gone by this could at least be a step in the right direction to mend the relationship.
He then asked if I could make it happen and I assured him I could. I had a driver who would volunteer his time, I would have Ole Molly hauled from The Rock Ranch to Griffin and back and she would be housed in Griffin Station One until the return trip. What a sigh of relief when he said, “Let’s do it.”
The second obstacle was met with the help of P&D Enterprise of Griffin. Not only did they send a first class heavy equipment lowboy to haul Ole Molly but sent their best driver/operator. Jason Dodson was the most caring operator I have ever met. He took special care of Ole Molly as if she belonged to him.
Once they arrived at Griffin Station One, Jason carefully unloaded her and drove her into the station. While in the care of the Griffin firefighters, Ole Molly was cared for as if she belonged to them and shined throughout the event.
My good friend Josh Akins volunteered his time off to drive Ole Molly during the retirement celebration procession, a dream come true for him as he would be the first Thomaston firefighter to drive her in 54 years.
As the celebration began, six firefighters boarded the engine for the ride to old station one. As planned, retiring Chief Jones and retired Battalion Chief Rickerson were on the tailboard. FAO Josh Akins was driving and I was riding seat (bell rope in hand). Unknowing to Chief Jones, I was about to experience a lifelong dream of getting to ride Ole Molly in transit and ring the bell! On the right side running board standing was Deputy Chief John Hamilton and one the left running board standing was Captain Michael Thompson.
We left station one following a bagpiper, a group of firefighters and fire apparatus with Ole Molly in the middle. What a sight to see as we all came across the historic Sixth Street Bridge! As we arrived at the historic Old Station/City Hall banquet area, Chief Jones asked that Molly be backed into the bay that once housed their old ’31 Seagrave engine and next to their new mini-pumper.
Hundreds attended and it was an awesome celebration for my comrade. As stated by Griffin City Manager Kenny Smith, it was a great honor to have the City of Thomaston loan them Ole Molly for their event and would be forever grateful! Thanks to everyone who helped make dreams come true on this special day!
Mayor Pro Tempore Doug Head’s Complete Statement Regarding R.E. Lee
Published 8-17-2020
I know there has been a lot of conversation about the R.E. Lee name change. I think it is an important issue and I have been giving a lot of thought to this topic, and know that a lot of you have too. And in the interest of full disclosure I want to let everyone know that in my family I have strong connections to both the Confederacy and Robert E. Lee Institute.
My relatives fought and were wounded in Dalton and Gettysburg. My mother’s relatives fought in the bloody battles of Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge at Lookout Mountain, and the Battle of Atlanta. There is even a set of twins in our family that fought, one for the North and one for the South. Lastly, I am related to General Robert E. Lee through my father’s side.
My twin and I are 1973 graduates of R.E. Lee and my mother graduated from Lee in the late 30s, stepmother in 1955, sister in 1968, stepsisters in 1974 and 1980. My brother-In-law coached at Lee from 1972-74. Many of you know that my father was the team doctor from the mid to late 50s-1980. As important as anything, my father, my family, and I have been lifelong friends with the Cavan, McAbee, Lowe, and Pruett families, who coached and played on many of the great Lee football teams. My best friend is Pete Cavan, so nobody has more on the line here than I do.
I think I can say that I have as much invested here as any of you. Let me just touch all the bases so you will know me better. I am a diehard capitalist, a fiscal conservative and a social moderate. But in the midst of all these connections, nothing colors my vision more than my commitment to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. No, I am not perfect and certainly have my faults, but my devotion to Christ colors everything I look at.
As we know, R.E. Lee Institute was closed in 1992 and the campus was repurposed and renamed into the Thomaston-Upson County Governmental Administration Complex buildings. The R.E. Lee name was kept on the front of the building and the portraits of Robert E. Lee and John B. Gordon and the Lee curtains were kept in the auditorium. We are now almost 30 years after the closing of the school, and the R.E. Lee name remains on the front of the building that is now a public space for our local governments.
People have said to me that the name is all we have left. I couldn’t disagree more. If we look at the other schools in our county such as the Atwater, Yatesville, Worthy, Rock Hill, Thurston, and Drake schools, which I am sure were much loved, they are a shadow of their former selves. But the Lee campus is as beautiful as it ever was for people to come here and remember. I am thankful that our government chose this space. Only the city/county governments could have kept and maintained the whole campus and they have done it well. I can’t imagine anyone in the private sector doing as well with the property.
So for us, we are asked to reconsider the R.E. Lee name that is on our government buildings and the portraits and curtains that remain there inside. It brings us to the question, do we feel it is right to have Robert E Lee’s name on the building that is the space that houses the governments that represent all our people?
To answer these questions, I went and talked to a lot of people, both black and white. I wanted to talk to them one on one, as there are many who might share how they feel in a one on one setting, but would be hesitant to do so in a group. I simply wanted to hear how they felt without any pressure or expectation. Through all my talks, I have been left with a deep respect for the opinions on both sides and found that all these people are very passionate about what they believe and are respectful of each other’s opinion.
Some people say you are trying to erase history or sanitize history - No, no one is trying to erase history. We are trying to acknowledge it and to understand history better, and through a better collective understanding, decide how we want to live our lives in 2020, and build a better future for our community.
We are not talking about tearing these things down and throwing them away or storing them away in a closet, but rather looking to find a way to relocate these items to a more appropriate place where they can be appreciated, rather than the place where we serve the public. Many people say this is all about politics. No, this has nothing to do with politics for me. For me, it is about humanity, and making all people feel good about being in a space that serves them.
So here is the gist of what I have heard and what I believe.
In my talks with my R.E. Lee graduate friends, they expressed strong and passionate feelings about the school that they love and remember. These feelings were very consistent. They had strong feelings of love and loyalty for R.E. Lee Institute. When they drive by the government buildings, they did not then nor do they see it now as the name of a Southern general as much as a place that was one of the best parts of their lives.
Now, on the other hand, when I talked with my African American friends, I also heard a very consistent message. I heard comments from them about how they have numbed themselves over time to these things and only when an unfortunate event happens on a national scale that it will rise to the surface and force us to consider how we feel. “Doug”, they say, “we have just learned to deal with it.”
They said that we create monuments and symbols to people that we revere and hold as heroes and to noble causes; to causes that we honor and support. They said, for a great portion of our people, these names, symbols and monuments and portraits do not represent good things, but rather something that is painful; in fact, a horrible part of our history. Monuments should honor greatness, and this was not a part of history that we should celebrate.
They said that a museum or archive is a far more appropriate place where people can choose to go or not to go. But this is a public space where people go to pay their utilities, to meet with their leaders and discuss their wants, needs and desires. They said these things we see are a constant reminder of what our forefathers went through and what the confederacy was willing to give their lives for. They said that when they look back on it, that they have just suppressed their feelings over time. Again, they said that they have become numb to it. Lastly, they said that when they look at these things in our public spaces where we represent all parts of society, the leaders must feel that this is ok.
Let me say that these people were people that I sought out to hear their feelings. I was not recruited by anybody or any group of people. The people I talked to had no axe to grind and were at times almost hesitant, almost apologetic, when they spoke. I was moved to think on this because I love people, and this is a world that is hurting and torn and divided and searching. This is an important issue for me - I sought these people out because I want to know the truth and make a decision that is right for everybody. It has nothing to do with politics for me, but it is rather about humanity - it is a moral issue for me and my commitment to Christ pushes me to search for the best answer in an imperfect world.
So we find ourselves at a place in time where we are asked to make a decision about these names and symbols which mean different things to different people. The symbols for the school we love on the one side is, for those on the other side, tied to the most iconic individual in a war that tore our country apart and killed over 600,000 of our own citizens in an effort to keep another group of our people enslaved. The question that we have to decide is are these feelings of sentimentality and love and loyalty for a school that has been closed for 28 years more important than our love for our fellow citizens today, in 2020, for which, these symbols are a terrible and painful reminder of times past and an effort to keep them enslaved.
It is a part of our history, but not a part of history that should be in this public space where we serve everyone. Our governmental space is a place to make all people that we represent feel more than, not less than. Is it not still the school that we remember and love? Is it not really this place, this ground, where those memories were made? Why is it so important to insist that a name remain on this building that is no longer a school, when, for some, it is a very painful memory? I don’t need to remind you that people of color have died among the many in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq to help make our freedom possible. Let’s also remember that a black man, Crispus Attucks, a man of color, is widely regarded as the first American killed in the American Revolution. People of color have died and shed their blood for this nation, this nation that we call The United States of America.
It is all history, and it’s our history, and we are not here to erase it or sanitize it, but rather to understand it and to think about how it affects others. It is not always a pretty and neat little story. I am not here to be a judge of Robert E. Lee or John B. Gordon, but really I want us to decide how we are going to live our lives today. I want us to stop living in the past and to try to build a future in this community that our young people will want to come back to.
It is my opinion that the sentimentality that surrounds all the memories that we have for this school is not a strong enough reason to leave these symbols here when they represent a painful part of history for a whole group of our citizens. It is a public building now, and has been for almost 30 years that represents all of our people, not just some. Let’s simply move these things to a more appropriate place where they can be seen by those who want to see them and let’s more fairly show this building for what it is now, a public space for all of the people we represent. In the end, I see this as a question, not of our politics, but of our humanity.
Lastly, I will relate a reason to why I think that if Robert E. Lee were here, he would bless this effort to change these things. You may be surprised for me to say this but if you know your history, you shouldn’t be. I wish that General Lee could speak for himself, but perhaps he already has. I think that there is a particular comment by Lee in a letter that he wrote to the Gettysburg Battlefield Association that directly addresses how he felt about these things.
The Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association had extended Robert E. Lee an invitation to attend a meeting of the officers engaged in the battle at Gettsyburg, for the purpose of marking upon the ground their positions and movements of the armies on the field and then they would erect granite monuments to mark these things so people would remember what was done there.
Lee responded to them in a letter from Lexington, Va. dated Aug. 5, 1869. One week ago would have been 151 years to the day that he wrote this letter, and I think his words are just as relevant today as they were then. In that letter he says, “My engagements will not permit me to be present. I believe if there, I could not add anything material to the information existing on the subject. I think it wiser, moreover, not to keep open the sores of war, but to follow the examples of those nations who endeavored to obliterate the marks of civil strife, to commit to oblivion the feelings engendered. Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, Robert E. Lee”
I do think I see it as Lee saw it. However I would not wish, as he instructed, to obliterate these historical items as he had hoped, but rather to move them to a more appropriate place. I think he saw it as I do; not as a political question, but a moral question.
These monuments and symbols that we have here are a huge reminder for us all, but they carry very different connotations. I agree with General Lee to commit these things to the past and not keep open the sores of war. Taking down these words, monuments and symbols won’t feed a person or change the economy or the cost of education or health care, but it may help bring us together so that we can walk forward.
I would like to ask that the city and county, or representatives of each body, to get together and discuss these things. Let’s sit down and find a better and more appropriate place, like the archives, for these historical items and let’s seek to become an example for other cities.
I know there has been a lot of conversation about the R.E. Lee name change. I think it is an important issue and I have been giving a lot of thought to this topic, and know that a lot of you have too. And in the interest of full disclosure I want to let everyone know that in my family I have strong connections to both the Confederacy and Robert E. Lee Institute.
My relatives fought and were wounded in Dalton and Gettysburg. My mother’s relatives fought in the bloody battles of Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge at Lookout Mountain, and the Battle of Atlanta. There is even a set of twins in our family that fought, one for the North and one for the South. Lastly, I am related to General Robert E. Lee through my father’s side.
My twin and I are 1973 graduates of R.E. Lee and my mother graduated from Lee in the late 30s, stepmother in 1955, sister in 1968, stepsisters in 1974 and 1980. My brother-In-law coached at Lee from 1972-74. Many of you know that my father was the team doctor from the mid to late 50s-1980. As important as anything, my father, my family, and I have been lifelong friends with the Cavan, McAbee, Lowe, and Pruett families, who coached and played on many of the great Lee football teams. My best friend is Pete Cavan, so nobody has more on the line here than I do.
I think I can say that I have as much invested here as any of you. Let me just touch all the bases so you will know me better. I am a diehard capitalist, a fiscal conservative and a social moderate. But in the midst of all these connections, nothing colors my vision more than my commitment to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. No, I am not perfect and certainly have my faults, but my devotion to Christ colors everything I look at.
As we know, R.E. Lee Institute was closed in 1992 and the campus was repurposed and renamed into the Thomaston-Upson County Governmental Administration Complex buildings. The R.E. Lee name was kept on the front of the building and the portraits of Robert E. Lee and John B. Gordon and the Lee curtains were kept in the auditorium. We are now almost 30 years after the closing of the school, and the R.E. Lee name remains on the front of the building that is now a public space for our local governments.
People have said to me that the name is all we have left. I couldn’t disagree more. If we look at the other schools in our county such as the Atwater, Yatesville, Worthy, Rock Hill, Thurston, and Drake schools, which I am sure were much loved, they are a shadow of their former selves. But the Lee campus is as beautiful as it ever was for people to come here and remember. I am thankful that our government chose this space. Only the city/county governments could have kept and maintained the whole campus and they have done it well. I can’t imagine anyone in the private sector doing as well with the property.
So for us, we are asked to reconsider the R.E. Lee name that is on our government buildings and the portraits and curtains that remain there inside. It brings us to the question, do we feel it is right to have Robert E Lee’s name on the building that is the space that houses the governments that represent all our people?
To answer these questions, I went and talked to a lot of people, both black and white. I wanted to talk to them one on one, as there are many who might share how they feel in a one on one setting, but would be hesitant to do so in a group. I simply wanted to hear how they felt without any pressure or expectation. Through all my talks, I have been left with a deep respect for the opinions on both sides and found that all these people are very passionate about what they believe and are respectful of each other’s opinion.
Some people say you are trying to erase history or sanitize history - No, no one is trying to erase history. We are trying to acknowledge it and to understand history better, and through a better collective understanding, decide how we want to live our lives in 2020, and build a better future for our community.
We are not talking about tearing these things down and throwing them away or storing them away in a closet, but rather looking to find a way to relocate these items to a more appropriate place where they can be appreciated, rather than the place where we serve the public. Many people say this is all about politics. No, this has nothing to do with politics for me. For me, it is about humanity, and making all people feel good about being in a space that serves them.
So here is the gist of what I have heard and what I believe.
In my talks with my R.E. Lee graduate friends, they expressed strong and passionate feelings about the school that they love and remember. These feelings were very consistent. They had strong feelings of love and loyalty for R.E. Lee Institute. When they drive by the government buildings, they did not then nor do they see it now as the name of a Southern general as much as a place that was one of the best parts of their lives.
Now, on the other hand, when I talked with my African American friends, I also heard a very consistent message. I heard comments from them about how they have numbed themselves over time to these things and only when an unfortunate event happens on a national scale that it will rise to the surface and force us to consider how we feel. “Doug”, they say, “we have just learned to deal with it.”
They said that we create monuments and symbols to people that we revere and hold as heroes and to noble causes; to causes that we honor and support. They said, for a great portion of our people, these names, symbols and monuments and portraits do not represent good things, but rather something that is painful; in fact, a horrible part of our history. Monuments should honor greatness, and this was not a part of history that we should celebrate.
They said that a museum or archive is a far more appropriate place where people can choose to go or not to go. But this is a public space where people go to pay their utilities, to meet with their leaders and discuss their wants, needs and desires. They said these things we see are a constant reminder of what our forefathers went through and what the confederacy was willing to give their lives for. They said that when they look back on it, that they have just suppressed their feelings over time. Again, they said that they have become numb to it. Lastly, they said that when they look at these things in our public spaces where we represent all parts of society, the leaders must feel that this is ok.
Let me say that these people were people that I sought out to hear their feelings. I was not recruited by anybody or any group of people. The people I talked to had no axe to grind and were at times almost hesitant, almost apologetic, when they spoke. I was moved to think on this because I love people, and this is a world that is hurting and torn and divided and searching. This is an important issue for me - I sought these people out because I want to know the truth and make a decision that is right for everybody. It has nothing to do with politics for me, but it is rather about humanity - it is a moral issue for me and my commitment to Christ pushes me to search for the best answer in an imperfect world.
So we find ourselves at a place in time where we are asked to make a decision about these names and symbols which mean different things to different people. The symbols for the school we love on the one side is, for those on the other side, tied to the most iconic individual in a war that tore our country apart and killed over 600,000 of our own citizens in an effort to keep another group of our people enslaved. The question that we have to decide is are these feelings of sentimentality and love and loyalty for a school that has been closed for 28 years more important than our love for our fellow citizens today, in 2020, for which, these symbols are a terrible and painful reminder of times past and an effort to keep them enslaved.
It is a part of our history, but not a part of history that should be in this public space where we serve everyone. Our governmental space is a place to make all people that we represent feel more than, not less than. Is it not still the school that we remember and love? Is it not really this place, this ground, where those memories were made? Why is it so important to insist that a name remain on this building that is no longer a school, when, for some, it is a very painful memory? I don’t need to remind you that people of color have died among the many in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq to help make our freedom possible. Let’s also remember that a black man, Crispus Attucks, a man of color, is widely regarded as the first American killed in the American Revolution. People of color have died and shed their blood for this nation, this nation that we call The United States of America.
It is all history, and it’s our history, and we are not here to erase it or sanitize it, but rather to understand it and to think about how it affects others. It is not always a pretty and neat little story. I am not here to be a judge of Robert E. Lee or John B. Gordon, but really I want us to decide how we are going to live our lives today. I want us to stop living in the past and to try to build a future in this community that our young people will want to come back to.
It is my opinion that the sentimentality that surrounds all the memories that we have for this school is not a strong enough reason to leave these symbols here when they represent a painful part of history for a whole group of our citizens. It is a public building now, and has been for almost 30 years that represents all of our people, not just some. Let’s simply move these things to a more appropriate place where they can be seen by those who want to see them and let’s more fairly show this building for what it is now, a public space for all of the people we represent. In the end, I see this as a question, not of our politics, but of our humanity.
Lastly, I will relate a reason to why I think that if Robert E. Lee were here, he would bless this effort to change these things. You may be surprised for me to say this but if you know your history, you shouldn’t be. I wish that General Lee could speak for himself, but perhaps he already has. I think that there is a particular comment by Lee in a letter that he wrote to the Gettysburg Battlefield Association that directly addresses how he felt about these things.
The Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association had extended Robert E. Lee an invitation to attend a meeting of the officers engaged in the battle at Gettsyburg, for the purpose of marking upon the ground their positions and movements of the armies on the field and then they would erect granite monuments to mark these things so people would remember what was done there.
Lee responded to them in a letter from Lexington, Va. dated Aug. 5, 1869. One week ago would have been 151 years to the day that he wrote this letter, and I think his words are just as relevant today as they were then. In that letter he says, “My engagements will not permit me to be present. I believe if there, I could not add anything material to the information existing on the subject. I think it wiser, moreover, not to keep open the sores of war, but to follow the examples of those nations who endeavored to obliterate the marks of civil strife, to commit to oblivion the feelings engendered. Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, Robert E. Lee”
I do think I see it as Lee saw it. However I would not wish, as he instructed, to obliterate these historical items as he had hoped, but rather to move them to a more appropriate place. I think he saw it as I do; not as a political question, but a moral question.
These monuments and symbols that we have here are a huge reminder for us all, but they carry very different connotations. I agree with General Lee to commit these things to the past and not keep open the sores of war. Taking down these words, monuments and symbols won’t feed a person or change the economy or the cost of education or health care, but it may help bring us together so that we can walk forward.
I would like to ask that the city and county, or representatives of each body, to get together and discuss these things. Let’s sit down and find a better and more appropriate place, like the archives, for these historical items and let’s seek to become an example for other cities.
BOE Argues Mask Mandate
Board Approves 2020 Millage Rate and FY21 Budget
Published 8-14-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The Thomaston-Upson Board of Education met last Tuesday and approved a mask mandate for all students and staff when social distancing can not be easily accomplished. The mandate includes the requirement of masks in spaces like hallways, buses, cafeterias and classrooms.
Board member Jaye Eubanks began the pandemic update asking, “How quickly can we turn around and enroll [face-to-face students] in remote learning, in the event that we have to shut down or if the state mandates we shut down?”
Superintendent Larry Derico stated that it would take about a week to get all Chrome Books passed out and get every student up to speed. “It’s the logistics that will take the most time… We know there has to be haste there, but we also know that we have to be reasonable and think about the logistics that will take place to make that as seamless as possible,” commented Derico.
Eubanks also asked if the school system has a plan in place for students who have no internet connection at home, if the schools must close. Derico stated that he is currently working on setting up extenders at the schools, which will provide wireless internet to all parking lots.
“We are also working with our chamber partners,” said Derico, “and we are going to put information out to the community, to any business partners that would like to partner with the school system to provide free wifi to any parents who need to access those.”
Eubanks encouraged Derico to reach out to the faith community for assistance.
Through the connectivity grant with the Georgia Department of Education, the Thomaston-Upson School System is qualified for nine wireless extenders (transmitters), designed for buses, according to Derico.
“We can actually find more stable locations to put those in… We are presently looking at the broad band map to identify areas for these transmitters,” commented Derico. “We are also investigating Google applications that will allow teachers to upload lessons to a Chrome Book.”
Teachers have the ability to upload two weeks of lessons that students can download at one time and work on without a consistent wireless internet signal. “Hopefully we don’t have to move into a distanced learning situation, but if we do, then we will post those partners. We don’t want parents to confuse distanced learning and remote learning.”
Eubanks brought up the idea of a mask mandate. “Some argue masks don’t help, some argue that they do… Do we feel that, as a board, we have done everything that we can do to protect our students, teachers, staff and administration, and do we feel that masks are a part of that responsibility?”
Board member Brian Salter commented, “Everyone knows I am against wearing a mask, and the main reason is because I feel that it doesn’t protect anyone and gives a false sense of protection… I don’t see where a mask is going to be more beneficial to a staff member or child if everyone [who makes contact] must quarantine for 14 days.”
Eubanks made the point that having to quarantine and getting sick are different things. “I feel like as a board, we’d be overstepping by mandating everyone wear a mask. I feel like that is a personal choice. The state is not mandating masks,” commented Salter.
Board member Steve Sadler reminded the board that the state superintendent left mask mandate options in the hands of local education boards. “My concern is the the safety of our students,” commented Sadler, “Mitigating the exposure is what we are trying to do.”
Board member Angeline McGill commented, “It’s important to me, because it’s not a joke. The bottom line is that I wear a mask, not only to protect me, but someone who is in my vicinity… We are responsible for someone else’s child.”
Board member Leon Fowler expressed his opposition to a mask mandate “It’s not so much personal choice, but it’s going to be a nightmare to enforce.”
Chairperson Jaqueline Hollis stated, “We were not ready for seatbelts, but they were pushed upon us, because we didn’t have sense enough to wear them ourselves. They mandated students must take a class before getting their [driver’s] license. That wasn’t too popular, but it helped. My stand on it has not changed and it probably won’t… The numbers are going up and my thing is, we have to look at keeping children safe… Safety is going to come [number] 1, and education is going to come [number] 2. We have children coming to us that will be afraid, and teachers that are already afraid. It bothers me that I wear a mask to protect you and you aren’t going to wear one for me. This is something simple that we can do. We bought masks for everybody, there are cute masks around town for sale, and we should utilize that.”
“I’m not saying that the virus isn’t real or bad… but at some point we have to live our life. I don’t think that having a kid or a teacher wearing a mask all day is in the best health for that person,” commented Salter.
“The parents have been warned that if it came to it, masks would be mandated. This won’t be a surprise if it comes to it,” commented Hollis.
“Yeah, but we haven’t even started school yet, so what are we basing our justification on?” asked Salter.
“We want to be proactive, not reactive,” stated Hollis.
Derico reminded the board that whether masks are mandated or not, if a child is exposed, that individual must quarantine.
“My question stands, are we doing all we can, within our power, to provide as much protection to our students and staff, and my follow up question is: If I pull up on the first day of school, will I see teachers and administration wearing masks?” asked Eubanks. “If they’re not setting the example, how can I expect students to wear masks in the hallway between classes?”
“I think they’re under the impression that until it’s mandated, it’s an option if they are outside and exercising the six-foot rule,” commented Derico.
Sadler made a motion to mandate masks when correct social distancing cannot be achieved. Eubanks seconded the motion. Hollis confirmed that masks will not be mandatory inside classroom where social distancing can be achieved.
The mask mandate was approved in a 5-2 vote. Board members Sadler, Eubanks, Hollis, McGill and Hall voted for the mandate, while Fowler and Salter voted against the mandate.
In other news, the board unanimously approved the 2020 millage rate at 13.72, a decrease from the 2019 millage rate of 14.32. The board also approved the $41.6 Million Fiscal Year 2021 budget.
Derico asked the board to waive policy DJED, which applies to bids and quotations. According to the policy, any project in excess of $100,000 requires three or more bids and all bids require a 30-day consideration period. Derico asked that the policy be waived so that new water fountains, which include water bottle fill-up stations, can be installed quickly. Derico stated that he will obtain three bids to choose from before beginning the project.
Incoming Board Member Scott Roberts was present for the meeting.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The Thomaston-Upson Board of Education met last Tuesday and approved a mask mandate for all students and staff when social distancing can not be easily accomplished. The mandate includes the requirement of masks in spaces like hallways, buses, cafeterias and classrooms.
Board member Jaye Eubanks began the pandemic update asking, “How quickly can we turn around and enroll [face-to-face students] in remote learning, in the event that we have to shut down or if the state mandates we shut down?”
Superintendent Larry Derico stated that it would take about a week to get all Chrome Books passed out and get every student up to speed. “It’s the logistics that will take the most time… We know there has to be haste there, but we also know that we have to be reasonable and think about the logistics that will take place to make that as seamless as possible,” commented Derico.
Eubanks also asked if the school system has a plan in place for students who have no internet connection at home, if the schools must close. Derico stated that he is currently working on setting up extenders at the schools, which will provide wireless internet to all parking lots.
“We are also working with our chamber partners,” said Derico, “and we are going to put information out to the community, to any business partners that would like to partner with the school system to provide free wifi to any parents who need to access those.”
Eubanks encouraged Derico to reach out to the faith community for assistance.
Through the connectivity grant with the Georgia Department of Education, the Thomaston-Upson School System is qualified for nine wireless extenders (transmitters), designed for buses, according to Derico.
“We can actually find more stable locations to put those in… We are presently looking at the broad band map to identify areas for these transmitters,” commented Derico. “We are also investigating Google applications that will allow teachers to upload lessons to a Chrome Book.”
Teachers have the ability to upload two weeks of lessons that students can download at one time and work on without a consistent wireless internet signal. “Hopefully we don’t have to move into a distanced learning situation, but if we do, then we will post those partners. We don’t want parents to confuse distanced learning and remote learning.”
Eubanks brought up the idea of a mask mandate. “Some argue masks don’t help, some argue that they do… Do we feel that, as a board, we have done everything that we can do to protect our students, teachers, staff and administration, and do we feel that masks are a part of that responsibility?”
Board member Brian Salter commented, “Everyone knows I am against wearing a mask, and the main reason is because I feel that it doesn’t protect anyone and gives a false sense of protection… I don’t see where a mask is going to be more beneficial to a staff member or child if everyone [who makes contact] must quarantine for 14 days.”
Eubanks made the point that having to quarantine and getting sick are different things. “I feel like as a board, we’d be overstepping by mandating everyone wear a mask. I feel like that is a personal choice. The state is not mandating masks,” commented Salter.
Board member Steve Sadler reminded the board that the state superintendent left mask mandate options in the hands of local education boards. “My concern is the the safety of our students,” commented Sadler, “Mitigating the exposure is what we are trying to do.”
Board member Angeline McGill commented, “It’s important to me, because it’s not a joke. The bottom line is that I wear a mask, not only to protect me, but someone who is in my vicinity… We are responsible for someone else’s child.”
Board member Leon Fowler expressed his opposition to a mask mandate “It’s not so much personal choice, but it’s going to be a nightmare to enforce.”
Chairperson Jaqueline Hollis stated, “We were not ready for seatbelts, but they were pushed upon us, because we didn’t have sense enough to wear them ourselves. They mandated students must take a class before getting their [driver’s] license. That wasn’t too popular, but it helped. My stand on it has not changed and it probably won’t… The numbers are going up and my thing is, we have to look at keeping children safe… Safety is going to come [number] 1, and education is going to come [number] 2. We have children coming to us that will be afraid, and teachers that are already afraid. It bothers me that I wear a mask to protect you and you aren’t going to wear one for me. This is something simple that we can do. We bought masks for everybody, there are cute masks around town for sale, and we should utilize that.”
“I’m not saying that the virus isn’t real or bad… but at some point we have to live our life. I don’t think that having a kid or a teacher wearing a mask all day is in the best health for that person,” commented Salter.
“The parents have been warned that if it came to it, masks would be mandated. This won’t be a surprise if it comes to it,” commented Hollis.
“Yeah, but we haven’t even started school yet, so what are we basing our justification on?” asked Salter.
“We want to be proactive, not reactive,” stated Hollis.
Derico reminded the board that whether masks are mandated or not, if a child is exposed, that individual must quarantine.
“My question stands, are we doing all we can, within our power, to provide as much protection to our students and staff, and my follow up question is: If I pull up on the first day of school, will I see teachers and administration wearing masks?” asked Eubanks. “If they’re not setting the example, how can I expect students to wear masks in the hallway between classes?”
“I think they’re under the impression that until it’s mandated, it’s an option if they are outside and exercising the six-foot rule,” commented Derico.
Sadler made a motion to mandate masks when correct social distancing cannot be achieved. Eubanks seconded the motion. Hollis confirmed that masks will not be mandatory inside classroom where social distancing can be achieved.
The mask mandate was approved in a 5-2 vote. Board members Sadler, Eubanks, Hollis, McGill and Hall voted for the mandate, while Fowler and Salter voted against the mandate.
In other news, the board unanimously approved the 2020 millage rate at 13.72, a decrease from the 2019 millage rate of 14.32. The board also approved the $41.6 Million Fiscal Year 2021 budget.
Derico asked the board to waive policy DJED, which applies to bids and quotations. According to the policy, any project in excess of $100,000 requires three or more bids and all bids require a 30-day consideration period. Derico asked that the policy be waived so that new water fountains, which include water bottle fill-up stations, can be installed quickly. Derico stated that he will obtain three bids to choose from before beginning the project.
Incoming Board Member Scott Roberts was present for the meeting.
URMC’s CEO Reacts to Rise in COVID-19
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Published 8-13-2020
The following information was distributed to local officials and Upson Regional Medical Center staff last week by Jeff Tarrant, chief executive officer of the hospital:
As several weeks have passed since my last update specific to COVID-19, I want to discuss where we are as a community and an organization, regarding constant changes associated with this pandemic.
In early June when we began relaxing some of our restrictions, we were pleased that Upson County’s 14-day trend for newly diagnosed COVID-19 was in significant decline, as shown. During the 14-day period (May 20 through June 2), Upson County had recorded no new COVID-19 infections on seven of those days, and six or fewer new infections on each of the other seven days.
However, over the past several weeks, this declining trend has reversed and now is showing COVID-19 increasing at an alarming rate (July 9 through Aug. 8) within our Upson County population.
The counties that surround Upson show similar trends, with Lamar, Monroe, Pike, and Taylor counties each seeing more than 25 percent virus growth over this same two-week period.
The Centers for Disease Control and Georgia Department of Public Health now classify Upson County as experiencing “substantial, uncontrolled community transmission” of COVID-19. This is the highest classification level of pandemic risk on the CDC’s rating scale. Significant intervention is recommended in order to reverse the trend.
This information is not intended to frighten anyone - rather, it is intended to give you a real time factual look at the current status of the pandemic where we live. During several conversations with area leaders last week, I became aware that not everyone watches these numbers as closely as those of us in healthcare. I was particularly concerned when several folks told me they didn’t think COVID-19 was very active in middle Georgia at this time - that things seemed to be almost “back to normal.” As our trend shows, this is simply not the case.
With COVID-19 trends already increasing rapidly in this area and schools about to reopen, we are making some changes in our mitigation measures out of an abundance of caution. These changes are as follow:
•Beginning Monday, Aug. 10, we will ask our wonderful hospital volunteers to again stay home until these trends reverse.
•Beginning Monday, Aug. 10, we will again be asking certain employees to perform their work from home to the extent this is possible. This is a small list, however any reduction in close interaction with each other reduces the virus risk for all of us.
•Not new, but a reminder that masks must be worn to cover both nose and mouth by everyone inside any of our buildings. All locations are included. Facial coverings have continuously been shown to be effective in reducing virus spread. We highly encourage each of you, and your household members, to also mask when you are in any public setting outside of work. If you mask [at work] but don’t mask in other public settings, you are putting not just yourself at risk, but also others around you. It’s a simple thing to do - thanks for doing your part!
•Also not new but still very important, strict distancing from others - at least six feet - is required. This is impossible to achieve while caring for patients, however we continue to limit the size of any group gathering or meeting to make sure we can maintain this six-foot distance requirement from each other.
•Our café entrance has been changed to employee only, with badge access. Our temperature screening kiosk at that entrance has been modified to control the electronic door lock and seems to be working well. The steps in order are: 1) Temperature scan; 2) Badge swipe; 3) Press handicap door plate to open door; and 4) Sanitize hands immediately once inside the entrance. It is important that every employee go through each of these steps when entering the building.
•Patient visitation will remain at a limited level, with only one visitor allowed per patient. We can modify this slightly for patients with special circumstances, for example hospice inpatients. There is no visitation allowed for COVID-19 patients.
•The Upson County Health Department continues to offer drive through COVID-19 testing on our campus every Wednesday morning, and occasional Saturdays. Volumes are still very high - when cooler weather arrives, this may be expanded to full day testing if more hours are needed. Currently it takes 3-5 days for these Health Department COVID-19 test results to come back.
•Several of our clinic locations offer COVID-19 testing, generally with same day results. These include Upson Family Medical Center Northside, Upson Family Medical Center Southside, Upson Family Physicians Thomaston, Upson Family Physicians Barnesville, Upson Family Physicians Zebulon, and Upson OB/GYN. Appointments are necessary for each location except Northside and Southside Clinics.
•We have been very focused on building our supply of PPE since this pandemic started, and have been successful in doing so over the past couple of months. We will continue to build this inventory as our suppliers allow.
•We also will continue our focus on building and maintaining our COVID-19 testing reagent inventory. We are blessed to be able to offer this testing with same day results at so many locations. Across much of state and country, this is not the norm.
•Through the work of several, we have been able to maintain a supply of Remdesivir for administration to our COVID-19 inpatients who meet the federal criteria. This drug is in very short supply across the country, and distribution by state is determined by the federal government. We will continue to be advocates for receiving these shipments so our patients may receive this drug when appropriate.
We don’t know what the future holds in terms of COVID-19 treatment or vaccine development - progress seems positive, but it’s difficult to assess this just by watching news headlines.
But I know without question that every day, patients and families who need us for any reason can depend on us to be there for them. And their needs will be met. This organization has such a long history of excellence in delivering care to all who need it. Despite the fact that we are all dealing with something very new in this pandemic, this history of providing great care in a special way continues.
The following information was distributed to local officials and Upson Regional Medical Center staff last week by Jeff Tarrant, chief executive officer of the hospital:
As several weeks have passed since my last update specific to COVID-19, I want to discuss where we are as a community and an organization, regarding constant changes associated with this pandemic.
In early June when we began relaxing some of our restrictions, we were pleased that Upson County’s 14-day trend for newly diagnosed COVID-19 was in significant decline, as shown. During the 14-day period (May 20 through June 2), Upson County had recorded no new COVID-19 infections on seven of those days, and six or fewer new infections on each of the other seven days.
However, over the past several weeks, this declining trend has reversed and now is showing COVID-19 increasing at an alarming rate (July 9 through Aug. 8) within our Upson County population.
The counties that surround Upson show similar trends, with Lamar, Monroe, Pike, and Taylor counties each seeing more than 25 percent virus growth over this same two-week period.
The Centers for Disease Control and Georgia Department of Public Health now classify Upson County as experiencing “substantial, uncontrolled community transmission” of COVID-19. This is the highest classification level of pandemic risk on the CDC’s rating scale. Significant intervention is recommended in order to reverse the trend.
This information is not intended to frighten anyone - rather, it is intended to give you a real time factual look at the current status of the pandemic where we live. During several conversations with area leaders last week, I became aware that not everyone watches these numbers as closely as those of us in healthcare. I was particularly concerned when several folks told me they didn’t think COVID-19 was very active in middle Georgia at this time - that things seemed to be almost “back to normal.” As our trend shows, this is simply not the case.
With COVID-19 trends already increasing rapidly in this area and schools about to reopen, we are making some changes in our mitigation measures out of an abundance of caution. These changes are as follow:
•Beginning Monday, Aug. 10, we will ask our wonderful hospital volunteers to again stay home until these trends reverse.
•Beginning Monday, Aug. 10, we will again be asking certain employees to perform their work from home to the extent this is possible. This is a small list, however any reduction in close interaction with each other reduces the virus risk for all of us.
•Not new, but a reminder that masks must be worn to cover both nose and mouth by everyone inside any of our buildings. All locations are included. Facial coverings have continuously been shown to be effective in reducing virus spread. We highly encourage each of you, and your household members, to also mask when you are in any public setting outside of work. If you mask [at work] but don’t mask in other public settings, you are putting not just yourself at risk, but also others around you. It’s a simple thing to do - thanks for doing your part!
•Also not new but still very important, strict distancing from others - at least six feet - is required. This is impossible to achieve while caring for patients, however we continue to limit the size of any group gathering or meeting to make sure we can maintain this six-foot distance requirement from each other.
•Our café entrance has been changed to employee only, with badge access. Our temperature screening kiosk at that entrance has been modified to control the electronic door lock and seems to be working well. The steps in order are: 1) Temperature scan; 2) Badge swipe; 3) Press handicap door plate to open door; and 4) Sanitize hands immediately once inside the entrance. It is important that every employee go through each of these steps when entering the building.
•Patient visitation will remain at a limited level, with only one visitor allowed per patient. We can modify this slightly for patients with special circumstances, for example hospice inpatients. There is no visitation allowed for COVID-19 patients.
•The Upson County Health Department continues to offer drive through COVID-19 testing on our campus every Wednesday morning, and occasional Saturdays. Volumes are still very high - when cooler weather arrives, this may be expanded to full day testing if more hours are needed. Currently it takes 3-5 days for these Health Department COVID-19 test results to come back.
•Several of our clinic locations offer COVID-19 testing, generally with same day results. These include Upson Family Medical Center Northside, Upson Family Medical Center Southside, Upson Family Physicians Thomaston, Upson Family Physicians Barnesville, Upson Family Physicians Zebulon, and Upson OB/GYN. Appointments are necessary for each location except Northside and Southside Clinics.
•We have been very focused on building our supply of PPE since this pandemic started, and have been successful in doing so over the past couple of months. We will continue to build this inventory as our suppliers allow.
•We also will continue our focus on building and maintaining our COVID-19 testing reagent inventory. We are blessed to be able to offer this testing with same day results at so many locations. Across much of state and country, this is not the norm.
•Through the work of several, we have been able to maintain a supply of Remdesivir for administration to our COVID-19 inpatients who meet the federal criteria. This drug is in very short supply across the country, and distribution by state is determined by the federal government. We will continue to be advocates for receiving these shipments so our patients may receive this drug when appropriate.
We don’t know what the future holds in terms of COVID-19 treatment or vaccine development - progress seems positive, but it’s difficult to assess this just by watching news headlines.
But I know without question that every day, patients and families who need us for any reason can depend on us to be there for them. And their needs will be met. This organization has such a long history of excellence in delivering care to all who need it. Despite the fact that we are all dealing with something very new in this pandemic, this history of providing great care in a special way continues.
Commissioners Hear Pitch from Economic Development Firm
Published 8-13-2020
An economic development specialist told county commissioners during a work session last week that Thomaston and Upson “have a lot of positive momentum” and the community is “very favorable for future growth.”
Mike Adams, managing director of Grella Partnership Strategies based in New York, met with commissioners and Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head to discuss local development. The county, along with the city and potentially the Industrial Development Authority, has expressed interest in retaining Adams as a consultant.
“Thomaston-Upson is a live-work-play community, not just a manufacturing location,” Adams said. “There is an abundance of developable land, and you’re in the middle of the triangle (Atlanta, Macon, and Columbus). There are Fortune 500 companies looking at this area.”
Among Adams’ suggestions was that local officials pursue federal support through the EDA CARES Act for a proposed $4.3 million development of the industrial park. He also said companies like Amazon, with which he has been closely affiliated, could use the local airport as a cargo hub to “avoid the hassle” of Atlanta’s international airport.
Adams said a key attraction to the area would be the positive working relationship between city and county governments. But he added that one immediate need would involve education as it relates to workforce.
Primary and secondary school systems need improvement, and vocational schools should be “centers of excellence” which offer curriculum and certificate programs aligned with in-demand jobs. Specifically, he pointed to “data center technicians, high technology jobs, and logistic and supply chain jobs.”
Adams has 25 years of experience in economic development.
In other business, commissioners discussed rehabilitation of the Hannah’s Mill Road bridge, which will cost approximately $700,000 to repair or $1.5 million to replace, according to engineers’ estimates. The decision to repair or replace may be affected by whether state funds are available for the project, according to Chairman Norman Allen.
County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners that work continues “behind the scenes” on the courthouse roof project, which is on schedule for early to mid-fall construction. He said the color Colonial white had been chosen for the top of the clock tower, matching closely the original color from the early 1900s.
An economic development specialist told county commissioners during a work session last week that Thomaston and Upson “have a lot of positive momentum” and the community is “very favorable for future growth.”
Mike Adams, managing director of Grella Partnership Strategies based in New York, met with commissioners and Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head to discuss local development. The county, along with the city and potentially the Industrial Development Authority, has expressed interest in retaining Adams as a consultant.
“Thomaston-Upson is a live-work-play community, not just a manufacturing location,” Adams said. “There is an abundance of developable land, and you’re in the middle of the triangle (Atlanta, Macon, and Columbus). There are Fortune 500 companies looking at this area.”
Among Adams’ suggestions was that local officials pursue federal support through the EDA CARES Act for a proposed $4.3 million development of the industrial park. He also said companies like Amazon, with which he has been closely affiliated, could use the local airport as a cargo hub to “avoid the hassle” of Atlanta’s international airport.
Adams said a key attraction to the area would be the positive working relationship between city and county governments. But he added that one immediate need would involve education as it relates to workforce.
Primary and secondary school systems need improvement, and vocational schools should be “centers of excellence” which offer curriculum and certificate programs aligned with in-demand jobs. Specifically, he pointed to “data center technicians, high technology jobs, and logistic and supply chain jobs.”
Adams has 25 years of experience in economic development.
In other business, commissioners discussed rehabilitation of the Hannah’s Mill Road bridge, which will cost approximately $700,000 to repair or $1.5 million to replace, according to engineers’ estimates. The decision to repair or replace may be affected by whether state funds are available for the project, according to Chairman Norman Allen.
County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners that work continues “behind the scenes” on the courthouse roof project, which is on schedule for early to mid-fall construction. He said the color Colonial white had been chosen for the top of the clock tower, matching closely the original color from the early 1900s.
City Offices Closed
Week of Aug. 10-14
Fees Waived for Payments During Closure
Published 8-10-2020
Multiple positive tests among City of Thomaston administration and staff members have led to a decision by officials to extend closure of city offices through Friday, Aug. 14. Following is a statement released Sunday by City Manager Russell Thompson:
In an effort to mitigate the potential exposure of the coronavirus/COVID-19, City of Thomaston offices and services located at the Government Complex, 106 East Lee Street, will be closed to the public from Monday through Friday, Aug. 10-14.
A limited number of staff members will be available by phone and email to address any questions or to provide any information necessary concerning the provision of municipal services during this period. Additional information will be released as applicable.
With regard to city utilities, citizens/customers should continue to abide by all the policies and procedures of the City of Thomaston regarding service. Payments will continue to be received by mail, or by utilizing the city drop box located near the drive-through at 106 East Lee Street. Customers utilizing the drop box CANNOT use cash.
In addition, online payments may be made via https://thomastonga.governmentwindow.com/payer_login.html. Effective Monday, Aug. 10 through Friday, Aug. 14, the City of Thomaston will waive the transaction fee associated with use of this service.
Please be assured that the city will continue to provide municipal services including, but not limited to, police protection, fire protection, public works, water and sewer treatment/distribution, electrical services, and sanitation.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to our city’s wellbeing and safety and apologize for any inconveniences that this closure might cause. Your cooperation and support are appreciated as we make decisions based on what is in the best interest of everyone within the community.
Multiple positive tests among City of Thomaston administration and staff members have led to a decision by officials to extend closure of city offices through Friday, Aug. 14. Following is a statement released Sunday by City Manager Russell Thompson:
In an effort to mitigate the potential exposure of the coronavirus/COVID-19, City of Thomaston offices and services located at the Government Complex, 106 East Lee Street, will be closed to the public from Monday through Friday, Aug. 10-14.
A limited number of staff members will be available by phone and email to address any questions or to provide any information necessary concerning the provision of municipal services during this period. Additional information will be released as applicable.
With regard to city utilities, citizens/customers should continue to abide by all the policies and procedures of the City of Thomaston regarding service. Payments will continue to be received by mail, or by utilizing the city drop box located near the drive-through at 106 East Lee Street. Customers utilizing the drop box CANNOT use cash.
In addition, online payments may be made via https://thomastonga.governmentwindow.com/payer_login.html. Effective Monday, Aug. 10 through Friday, Aug. 14, the City of Thomaston will waive the transaction fee associated with use of this service.
Please be assured that the city will continue to provide municipal services including, but not limited to, police protection, fire protection, public works, water and sewer treatment/distribution, electrical services, and sanitation.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to our city’s wellbeing and safety and apologize for any inconveniences that this closure might cause. Your cooperation and support are appreciated as we make decisions based on what is in the best interest of everyone within the community.
Commission Extends Financial Sustainability Measures Resolution
Board Hears Opposition to R.E. Lee Name Change
Published 8-6-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Commissioners voted unanimously last week to extend the previously enacted resolution for “financial sustainability measures” related to the COVID-19 pandemic until Sept.22.
The resolution was adopted to ensure financial stability throughout county government and offset a potential economic downturn created by the health crisis. The Sept. 22 extension corresponds with the board’s second regular meeting of the month, at which time it may end or be further extended by commissioners.
Four key items are addressed in the resolution: There will be a countywide moratorium on hiring; prohibition on all county-sponsored travel; prohibition of small equipment purchases; and a freeze on capital expenditures not previously approved by the commission.
The county registered and was approved for financial relief through the CARES Act, and will quickly receive approximately $270,000, according to County Manager Jason Tinsley. More than $900,000 is available for Upson through the act, he said.
Among expenses covered by CARES Act funding are 80 hours of COVID-related leave for employees, personal protection equipment in the form of masks and gloves, building renovations such as plexiglass shields for office personnel, and technological equipment allowing court proceedings and commission meetings to be streamed live for compliance with social distancing guidelines.
Commissioners received correspondence from six residents wishing to be on the record opposing a name change to the old R.E. Lee Institute building which now houses city and county government offices. Some of the letters included opposition to removal of paintings currently hanging in the auditorium.
Tinsley reminded commissioners that COVID-19 testing is available at Upson Regional Medical Center every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. No referral is necessary, and there is no charge for testing, he said.
Commissioner Benjamin Watson asked commissioners and audience members to “keep teachers in your thoughts” as they return to school for the 2020-21 year.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Upson County Commissioners voted unanimously last week to extend the previously enacted resolution for “financial sustainability measures” related to the COVID-19 pandemic until Sept.22.
The resolution was adopted to ensure financial stability throughout county government and offset a potential economic downturn created by the health crisis. The Sept. 22 extension corresponds with the board’s second regular meeting of the month, at which time it may end or be further extended by commissioners.
Four key items are addressed in the resolution: There will be a countywide moratorium on hiring; prohibition on all county-sponsored travel; prohibition of small equipment purchases; and a freeze on capital expenditures not previously approved by the commission.
The county registered and was approved for financial relief through the CARES Act, and will quickly receive approximately $270,000, according to County Manager Jason Tinsley. More than $900,000 is available for Upson through the act, he said.
Among expenses covered by CARES Act funding are 80 hours of COVID-related leave for employees, personal protection equipment in the form of masks and gloves, building renovations such as plexiglass shields for office personnel, and technological equipment allowing court proceedings and commission meetings to be streamed live for compliance with social distancing guidelines.
Commissioners received correspondence from six residents wishing to be on the record opposing a name change to the old R.E. Lee Institute building which now houses city and county government offices. Some of the letters included opposition to removal of paintings currently hanging in the auditorium.
Tinsley reminded commissioners that COVID-19 testing is available at Upson Regional Medical Center every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. No referral is necessary, and there is no charge for testing, he said.
Commissioner Benjamin Watson asked commissioners and audience members to “keep teachers in your thoughts” as they return to school for the 2020-21 year.
IDA Eyes Future of ‘325 Property’ City Manager
Calls Site ‘Sore Spot’
Published 8-6-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Members of the Thomaston-Upson County Industrial Development Authority weighed options last week for an old mill site at 325 Goodrich Avenue which City Manager Russell Thompson called a “sore spot” for the community.
The 30-plus acre tract and 100,000-plus square foot building could be added to the IDA’s inventory for recruitment of companies considering relocation in Upson County, according to Thompson. The city currently holds a $150,000 demolition bond on the property, but that project is in default.
“This thing has gone back and forth for several years, and is a sore spot… ignoring the issue is not the appropriate solution,” he said. “The city is looking for a partnership and means to take a negative for the community and turn it into something positive.”
The tract falls entirely within an “opportunity zone” with proximity to rail service and water availability. Owned by a LaGrange resident, the property carries two liens for “a couple million,” according to Thompson, whose point of contact has been an attorney based in Virginia.
Regardless of who acquires the property, it will require extensive cleanup. Two bids have been submitted, ranging from $400,000 for “debris removal” to $1.4 million for a more in-depth process. But IDA member Steve Rush said cost for cleanup could climb much higher.
“The problem is what’s under it,” Rush said, referring to a variety of substances which could be found in the soil. “That $1.4 million number may not touch it.”
County Commission Chairman Norman Allen suggested use of the Brownfields Program, which was presented to the group last year. The Environmental Protection Agency program provides grants and technical assistance to communities to assess, safely clean and sustainably reuse contaminated properties.
Board members discussed legal options, including eminent domain, to acquire the property. Any such option could result in the site being unused for years.
“The court could deem it a ‘blighted area,’ then you could condemn it,” IDA Attorney Johnnie Caldwell, Jr. explained regarding the process for eminent domain. “It used to require property to sit idle for 20 years… now it’s five years. In my opinion, you certainly have a blighted area there.”
IDA Executive Director Kyle Fletcher said a company in South Georgia had shown interest in the property, projecting a $6 million capital investment and 40 full time jobs paying an average of $18 per hour. The company, in business for six years, originated in Marietta prior to relocating in South Georgia and seeks a site closer to Atlanta’s airport.
Fletcher asked members to consider authorizing a five-year, performance-based incentive between $200,000 and $300,000 for relocation. She said the company plans future expansion of up to 100 jobs, mostly welding, but “wants nothing to do with” the cleanup process.
The existing building would be modified to accommodate the company’s operations, and responsibility for cleanup likely would land with the city.
“Do we really want to put a bandaid on this? Is that really the best place for an industrial plant?” Allen asked. “Would it be better to remediate the whole thing and make it more of a multi-use type of property?
IDA Chair Carson Gleaton weighed the choice.
“We’re not a match for every prospect that comes along,” Gleaton said. “Just because you have a prospect doesn’t mean you sell the farm for it. We appreciate every prospect we get, but sometimes we’re not a match for them and they’re not a match for us.”
“I thought this project was over before I brought it to the board because he was asking for cleanup plus relocation plus incentives,” Fletcher admitted. “I said, ‘We’d love to have you, but we can’t do that’.”
Allen made a motion against offering the prospect any monetary incentive, saying, “I don’t see it as the best use of the land.” Rush seconded the motion, leading to a unanimous vote.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Members of the Thomaston-Upson County Industrial Development Authority weighed options last week for an old mill site at 325 Goodrich Avenue which City Manager Russell Thompson called a “sore spot” for the community.
The 30-plus acre tract and 100,000-plus square foot building could be added to the IDA’s inventory for recruitment of companies considering relocation in Upson County, according to Thompson. The city currently holds a $150,000 demolition bond on the property, but that project is in default.
“This thing has gone back and forth for several years, and is a sore spot… ignoring the issue is not the appropriate solution,” he said. “The city is looking for a partnership and means to take a negative for the community and turn it into something positive.”
The tract falls entirely within an “opportunity zone” with proximity to rail service and water availability. Owned by a LaGrange resident, the property carries two liens for “a couple million,” according to Thompson, whose point of contact has been an attorney based in Virginia.
Regardless of who acquires the property, it will require extensive cleanup. Two bids have been submitted, ranging from $400,000 for “debris removal” to $1.4 million for a more in-depth process. But IDA member Steve Rush said cost for cleanup could climb much higher.
“The problem is what’s under it,” Rush said, referring to a variety of substances which could be found in the soil. “That $1.4 million number may not touch it.”
County Commission Chairman Norman Allen suggested use of the Brownfields Program, which was presented to the group last year. The Environmental Protection Agency program provides grants and technical assistance to communities to assess, safely clean and sustainably reuse contaminated properties.
Board members discussed legal options, including eminent domain, to acquire the property. Any such option could result in the site being unused for years.
“The court could deem it a ‘blighted area,’ then you could condemn it,” IDA Attorney Johnnie Caldwell, Jr. explained regarding the process for eminent domain. “It used to require property to sit idle for 20 years… now it’s five years. In my opinion, you certainly have a blighted area there.”
IDA Executive Director Kyle Fletcher said a company in South Georgia had shown interest in the property, projecting a $6 million capital investment and 40 full time jobs paying an average of $18 per hour. The company, in business for six years, originated in Marietta prior to relocating in South Georgia and seeks a site closer to Atlanta’s airport.
Fletcher asked members to consider authorizing a five-year, performance-based incentive between $200,000 and $300,000 for relocation. She said the company plans future expansion of up to 100 jobs, mostly welding, but “wants nothing to do with” the cleanup process.
The existing building would be modified to accommodate the company’s operations, and responsibility for cleanup likely would land with the city.
“Do we really want to put a bandaid on this? Is that really the best place for an industrial plant?” Allen asked. “Would it be better to remediate the whole thing and make it more of a multi-use type of property?
IDA Chair Carson Gleaton weighed the choice.
“We’re not a match for every prospect that comes along,” Gleaton said. “Just because you have a prospect doesn’t mean you sell the farm for it. We appreciate every prospect we get, but sometimes we’re not a match for them and they’re not a match for us.”
“I thought this project was over before I brought it to the board because he was asking for cleanup plus relocation plus incentives,” Fletcher admitted. “I said, ‘We’d love to have you, but we can’t do that’.”
Allen made a motion against offering the prospect any monetary incentive, saying, “I don’t see it as the best use of the land.” Rush seconded the motion, leading to a unanimous vote.
UL Principals Share Remote Learning Plans
Published 8-6-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The Thomaston-Upson Board of Education met with administration from five local schools to discuss each school’s remote learning plan.
Chairman Jaqueline Hollis opening the meeting saying, “We know these are special and unique times. We want to collectively help all of you educate our students. We understand the importance of returning to school, whether it be remotely or traditionally. We are not here to second guess anyone’s decision or abilities, but want to be able to speak intelligently with our constituents. We will learn of your plans with respect and dignity. With that being said, please give us an overview of your plans.”
Remote Learning Applications were extended to July 29, the day after the meeting. As of the meeting, 266 elementary students had already signed up for remote learning.
Upson Lee Elementary Principal Shad Seymour has identified seven teachers to support remote learning, as well as a special education teacher for each grade. He plans to meet with RL teachers to gain experience with Education Galaxy and Reflex Math programs. Students and teachers will also utilize ClassTag to communicate homework and class assignments.
Parents and students who choose face-to-face instruction will also be able to use ClassTag outside of school as an additional resource.
Board Member Jaye Eubanks asked administrators if the online programs will require a sustained internet connection. Seymour said that some, but not all, programs and assignments will require a sustained connection. Upson Lee Primary Principal Tracy Wainwright confirmed that ClassTag assignments can be downloaded offline, but other programs do require a constant connection. All RL students are required to have a reliable internet connection to qualify for remote learning.
Eubanks also asked if administration was satisfied and comfortable with the safety guidelines that have been in place. Seymour told the board that they are comfortable, although there are many unknown factors that may come up on the first day. “We’ve got to expect some time for things to become fluid, but that’s no different than any other school year.”
Board Member Brian Salter commented, “I think we all understand that under normal circumstances, the first week is a train wreck… Good luck, and I truly mean that. My main concern is how parents will handle the daily temperature checking… and I hope they are understanding of the process.”
Salter also asked what was in place to ensure RL students get what they need from the school, as well as retain the information. Seymour commented, “The software programs are going to help a lot, but you still have to have delivery of instruction where a child watches the teacher on a video.” He shared that a main challenge is that children will not be able to immediately ask questions, but must wait until they meet with teachers on Zoom calls to make inquiries.
Wainwright also guaranteed that parents will have expectations for remote learning. “We’ve made it very clear that this is very different from March-May. Grades will count as if the students were in the classroom… There will be a difference in the quality of education for RL versus face-to-face. I can’t teach a kindergarten student basic literacy skills the same way that I can face-to-face. There will be some inequity in that, but we will be able to put out resources to help families and parents assist.”
Board member Steve Sadler asked if the schools were ready for all students to turn to remote learning if the schools have to shut down again.
Seymour guaranteed that teachers will be practicing Zoom lessons once a week during instruction time so that teachers and students both stay familiar with how the system works.
Upson Lee Middle School Principal Rhonda Gulley spoke about the range of classes taught at the middle school. They have ensured that two to three teachers will be teaching each content, so they will have partners who can assist if a teacher must quarantine.
Gulley shared plans to distance students in the classroom. For sixth and seventh grade, students will sit in clusters and will move together to their classes, so if there is a COVID-19 case, only the cluster will have to quarantine instead of an entire class, and she is urging teachers to keep a consistent seating chart as the children move from class to class. Only 15-20 students will be in a classroom.
“Eighth grade will be more difficult since we teach so many different classes,” commented Gulley.
Wainwright shared that remote learning students at ULP and ULE will have a Chrome Book and a charger for the duration of remote learning at ULP. Face-to-face students will have one Chrome Book assigned to them at the beginning of the year. Seymour also said that starting this year, third graders will use the same Chrome Book all three years that they attend ULE.
Middle and high school students will be checking out Chrome Books and will take them home every day. If an unexpected shut down were to take place, Gulley says that this will allow a smooth transition to full remote learning.
Wainwright shared that her plan is very similar to Seymour’s. As of the meeting, 215 students had signed up for RL. She shared that remote learning students will be able to take packages of manipulatives home so that they still have physical resources to assist in learning. Lesson plans will also be shared with parents to give them a better understanding on how to assist their children.
Education Galaxy will give students exposure to grade-level standards, but also includes a remediation piece for struggling students, according to Wainwright. She said that iReady will be used more for struggling learnings, although it will be available for all students. “Between the two programs, we feel that we have something to give them grade level exposure, but also a learning path to support their deficits.”
Wainwright shared that her biggest concern is parents feeling secure leaving their students at the school. An open house will be spread throughout several days to support social distancing. Parents will not be able to walk their children back to the classrooms on the first day, to ensure that rooms can stay sanitized and safe.
Upson Lee Middle and High School will be using Edgenuity, which is very similar to Odysseywear, which was previously used at the high school for students repeating courses, according to Principal Rhonda Gulley. She said that the program will also include live tutoring seven days a week. Gulley shared that nearly 300 students had signed up for remote learning, as of the meeting. “I have a teacher who will be more of a facilitator, since that’s more of what Edgenuity requires,” commented Gulley.
Jarvis Price of Upson Lee High School said that about 320 students signed up for RL. Seniors will be contacted by counselors for supports, but there will be designated teachers who will support RL students in grades nine through 11. He guaranteed that there will be fewer students on campus than it seems, considering many students will leave for dual enrollment and work-based learning programs. He says that parents will not know student schedules until closer to school, because counselors must re-balance courses after RL student lists have been finalized. Gulley commented that schedules should be released by Aug. 14.
Sadler asked about RL student participation in sports. Price guaranteed that RL students can not enter the school campus during the school day, but after 3:15 p.m. students will be able to enter to participate in sports, clubs, and other after-school activities.
To further prevent virus spread, Gulley stated that all ULMS classroom tables will be replaced with desks and all computer labs will be removed, since students will all have personal Chrome Books.
Eubanks stated, “I feel like we are hanging our hats on these temperature checks. I sit in a closed office all day long in a building with two other people and I wear a mask all day long. If we aren’t mandating masks relying on temperature checks, we need to ensure that teachers social distance when they return to school and follow protocols… It’s hard, but don’t let teachers cluster.”
Salter shared his concern of students thinking RL is a “free ride” to graduation. Price shared that each virtual course is 240 hours. He shared an example about Edgenuity, stating that students must watch a full video before being able to take a quiz on it. Students will only have two attempts to pass. A student must repeat the entire video before attempting the test again and the second test grade is the one that will go into the grade book.
Faye Williams at Upson Lee Alternative School says that her plans are very similar to the plans of Price and Gulley. Since instruction is completely virtual, students will have a designated Chrome Book for each day. Alternative school students did have the opportunity to choose remote learning, while also fulfilling the requirement of being removed from the middle or high schools.
Remote learning was not offered at Upson Lee Pre-K, since Pre-K is not required and the school currently has a waiting list for admission, according to Principal Jason Weeks.
Bright from the Start, Georgia’s Department of Early Care and Learning, provided models and guidelines for instruction. All resources will be provided to parents at the beginning of school, so that all students will have adequate resources if schools must shut down.
In reference to the beginning and end of the day, Weems shared that he is asking parents and children to stay in the car until it is time to enter the building, to avoid congregating at the front door. Parents and children will both have their temperatures taken upon arrival. Weems shared that the open house was spread out between six days. “Bright from the Start has provided, down to the minute, what they want their curriculum to look like,” said Weeks.
Superintendent Larry Derico stated, “In listening to the numbers, you’re looking at about one-third of the population of each school choosing remote learning. The opportunity there is that it affords the principals the opportunity to distance and reduce class sizes. I think it’s a win-win for our community, because we are affording them a choice… I think our principals have taken the cards that they were dealt and have done an amazing job getting the resources that they need and putting a plan into place that will be successful… And I think a huge piece of the puzzle is the fact that you, as a board of education, has supported them in getting them the resources that they need and supporting them with timelines and deadlines that need to be held firm on. For you to say, ‘We back you up and support you,’ I think that really helps… It is truly a group effort and I think the students are the winners in this.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The Thomaston-Upson Board of Education met with administration from five local schools to discuss each school’s remote learning plan.
Chairman Jaqueline Hollis opening the meeting saying, “We know these are special and unique times. We want to collectively help all of you educate our students. We understand the importance of returning to school, whether it be remotely or traditionally. We are not here to second guess anyone’s decision or abilities, but want to be able to speak intelligently with our constituents. We will learn of your plans with respect and dignity. With that being said, please give us an overview of your plans.”
Remote Learning Applications were extended to July 29, the day after the meeting. As of the meeting, 266 elementary students had already signed up for remote learning.
Upson Lee Elementary Principal Shad Seymour has identified seven teachers to support remote learning, as well as a special education teacher for each grade. He plans to meet with RL teachers to gain experience with Education Galaxy and Reflex Math programs. Students and teachers will also utilize ClassTag to communicate homework and class assignments.
Parents and students who choose face-to-face instruction will also be able to use ClassTag outside of school as an additional resource.
Board Member Jaye Eubanks asked administrators if the online programs will require a sustained internet connection. Seymour said that some, but not all, programs and assignments will require a sustained connection. Upson Lee Primary Principal Tracy Wainwright confirmed that ClassTag assignments can be downloaded offline, but other programs do require a constant connection. All RL students are required to have a reliable internet connection to qualify for remote learning.
Eubanks also asked if administration was satisfied and comfortable with the safety guidelines that have been in place. Seymour told the board that they are comfortable, although there are many unknown factors that may come up on the first day. “We’ve got to expect some time for things to become fluid, but that’s no different than any other school year.”
Board Member Brian Salter commented, “I think we all understand that under normal circumstances, the first week is a train wreck… Good luck, and I truly mean that. My main concern is how parents will handle the daily temperature checking… and I hope they are understanding of the process.”
Salter also asked what was in place to ensure RL students get what they need from the school, as well as retain the information. Seymour commented, “The software programs are going to help a lot, but you still have to have delivery of instruction where a child watches the teacher on a video.” He shared that a main challenge is that children will not be able to immediately ask questions, but must wait until they meet with teachers on Zoom calls to make inquiries.
Wainwright also guaranteed that parents will have expectations for remote learning. “We’ve made it very clear that this is very different from March-May. Grades will count as if the students were in the classroom… There will be a difference in the quality of education for RL versus face-to-face. I can’t teach a kindergarten student basic literacy skills the same way that I can face-to-face. There will be some inequity in that, but we will be able to put out resources to help families and parents assist.”
Board member Steve Sadler asked if the schools were ready for all students to turn to remote learning if the schools have to shut down again.
Seymour guaranteed that teachers will be practicing Zoom lessons once a week during instruction time so that teachers and students both stay familiar with how the system works.
Upson Lee Middle School Principal Rhonda Gulley spoke about the range of classes taught at the middle school. They have ensured that two to three teachers will be teaching each content, so they will have partners who can assist if a teacher must quarantine.
Gulley shared plans to distance students in the classroom. For sixth and seventh grade, students will sit in clusters and will move together to their classes, so if there is a COVID-19 case, only the cluster will have to quarantine instead of an entire class, and she is urging teachers to keep a consistent seating chart as the children move from class to class. Only 15-20 students will be in a classroom.
“Eighth grade will be more difficult since we teach so many different classes,” commented Gulley.
Wainwright shared that remote learning students at ULP and ULE will have a Chrome Book and a charger for the duration of remote learning at ULP. Face-to-face students will have one Chrome Book assigned to them at the beginning of the year. Seymour also said that starting this year, third graders will use the same Chrome Book all three years that they attend ULE.
Middle and high school students will be checking out Chrome Books and will take them home every day. If an unexpected shut down were to take place, Gulley says that this will allow a smooth transition to full remote learning.
Wainwright shared that her plan is very similar to Seymour’s. As of the meeting, 215 students had signed up for RL. She shared that remote learning students will be able to take packages of manipulatives home so that they still have physical resources to assist in learning. Lesson plans will also be shared with parents to give them a better understanding on how to assist their children.
Education Galaxy will give students exposure to grade-level standards, but also includes a remediation piece for struggling students, according to Wainwright. She said that iReady will be used more for struggling learnings, although it will be available for all students. “Between the two programs, we feel that we have something to give them grade level exposure, but also a learning path to support their deficits.”
Wainwright shared that her biggest concern is parents feeling secure leaving their students at the school. An open house will be spread throughout several days to support social distancing. Parents will not be able to walk their children back to the classrooms on the first day, to ensure that rooms can stay sanitized and safe.
Upson Lee Middle and High School will be using Edgenuity, which is very similar to Odysseywear, which was previously used at the high school for students repeating courses, according to Principal Rhonda Gulley. She said that the program will also include live tutoring seven days a week. Gulley shared that nearly 300 students had signed up for remote learning, as of the meeting. “I have a teacher who will be more of a facilitator, since that’s more of what Edgenuity requires,” commented Gulley.
Jarvis Price of Upson Lee High School said that about 320 students signed up for RL. Seniors will be contacted by counselors for supports, but there will be designated teachers who will support RL students in grades nine through 11. He guaranteed that there will be fewer students on campus than it seems, considering many students will leave for dual enrollment and work-based learning programs. He says that parents will not know student schedules until closer to school, because counselors must re-balance courses after RL student lists have been finalized. Gulley commented that schedules should be released by Aug. 14.
Sadler asked about RL student participation in sports. Price guaranteed that RL students can not enter the school campus during the school day, but after 3:15 p.m. students will be able to enter to participate in sports, clubs, and other after-school activities.
To further prevent virus spread, Gulley stated that all ULMS classroom tables will be replaced with desks and all computer labs will be removed, since students will all have personal Chrome Books.
Eubanks stated, “I feel like we are hanging our hats on these temperature checks. I sit in a closed office all day long in a building with two other people and I wear a mask all day long. If we aren’t mandating masks relying on temperature checks, we need to ensure that teachers social distance when they return to school and follow protocols… It’s hard, but don’t let teachers cluster.”
Salter shared his concern of students thinking RL is a “free ride” to graduation. Price shared that each virtual course is 240 hours. He shared an example about Edgenuity, stating that students must watch a full video before being able to take a quiz on it. Students will only have two attempts to pass. A student must repeat the entire video before attempting the test again and the second test grade is the one that will go into the grade book.
Faye Williams at Upson Lee Alternative School says that her plans are very similar to the plans of Price and Gulley. Since instruction is completely virtual, students will have a designated Chrome Book for each day. Alternative school students did have the opportunity to choose remote learning, while also fulfilling the requirement of being removed from the middle or high schools.
Remote learning was not offered at Upson Lee Pre-K, since Pre-K is not required and the school currently has a waiting list for admission, according to Principal Jason Weeks.
Bright from the Start, Georgia’s Department of Early Care and Learning, provided models and guidelines for instruction. All resources will be provided to parents at the beginning of school, so that all students will have adequate resources if schools must shut down.
In reference to the beginning and end of the day, Weems shared that he is asking parents and children to stay in the car until it is time to enter the building, to avoid congregating at the front door. Parents and children will both have their temperatures taken upon arrival. Weems shared that the open house was spread out between six days. “Bright from the Start has provided, down to the minute, what they want their curriculum to look like,” said Weeks.
Superintendent Larry Derico stated, “In listening to the numbers, you’re looking at about one-third of the population of each school choosing remote learning. The opportunity there is that it affords the principals the opportunity to distance and reduce class sizes. I think it’s a win-win for our community, because we are affording them a choice… I think our principals have taken the cards that they were dealt and have done an amazing job getting the resources that they need and putting a plan into place that will be successful… And I think a huge piece of the puzzle is the fact that you, as a board of education, has supported them in getting them the resources that they need and supporting them with timelines and deadlines that need to be held firm on. For you to say, ‘We back you up and support you,’ I think that really helps… It is truly a group effort and I think the students are the winners in this.”
TUAC Presents ‘Yakety Yak’
“Mama said there’d be days like this,” but don’t get down! TUAC Summer Theatre has something to brighten your summertime blues and there is no coin shortage to the fun we have planned! Four slumber parties plus two houses minus all parents equals one night to remember. You in? Come join us Friday and Saturday, Aug. 7-8, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 9, at 3 p.m. at the R. E. Lee auditorium. Photo by Luke Haney.
City Offices at Complex Closed Due to COVID-19
Published 8-6-2020
City of Thomaston offices at the Government Complex have closed, and will remain closed at least until Monday, because of multiple positive cases of COVID-19 among staff members, according to City Manager Russell Thompson.
Thompson, Mayor J.D. Stallings, Council Member Jeff Middlebrooks, and five to seven other staff members have tested positive for the virus. Initially the infection was thought to be contained in second-floor offices, but positive cases on the first floor led to the decision Thursday.
Thompson urges residents to use the drop box at the west end of the Government Complex for utility payments until offices reopen. He said he plans to re-evaluate and issue a statement regarding closures Monday.
There have been no positive cases among Upson County staff members, according to Manager Jason Tinsley, whose government offices are on the east end of the complex. Tinsley said all county employees wanting to be tested have been allowed to do so during work hours.
Tinsley said county staff members are taking appropriate precautions, and county offices will remain open for normal business hours until further notice.
Tuesday’s city council meeting was cancelled and will be rescheduled, according to Thompson.
City of Thomaston offices at the Government Complex have closed, and will remain closed at least until Monday, because of multiple positive cases of COVID-19 among staff members, according to City Manager Russell Thompson.
Thompson, Mayor J.D. Stallings, Council Member Jeff Middlebrooks, and five to seven other staff members have tested positive for the virus. Initially the infection was thought to be contained in second-floor offices, but positive cases on the first floor led to the decision Thursday.
Thompson urges residents to use the drop box at the west end of the Government Complex for utility payments until offices reopen. He said he plans to re-evaluate and issue a statement regarding closures Monday.
There have been no positive cases among Upson County staff members, according to Manager Jason Tinsley, whose government offices are on the east end of the complex. Tinsley said all county employees wanting to be tested have been allowed to do so during work hours.
Tinsley said county staff members are taking appropriate precautions, and county offices will remain open for normal business hours until further notice.
Tuesday’s city council meeting was cancelled and will be rescheduled, according to Thompson.
City Rolls Back ’20 Millage Rate
BB&T Awarded Bid for New TFD $2.7 Million Loan
Published 7-30-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Council members voted unanimously last week to tentatively roll back the 2020 tax millage rate for city property owners, following similar action by Upson County Commissioners and the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education.
The rate will be lowered to 3.412 mills from the 2019 rate of 3.560 mills unless further action is taken by the mayor and council.
Board members also voted to accept a low bid of two percent interest rate from BB&T for a 15-year, $2.7 million loan, in the form of a T-U Office Building Authority Revenue Bond, for the construction of a new city fire department complex.
Local banks participated in the bidding process. Councilman Ryan Tucker, an officer with United Bank, abstained from the vote. Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head, an officer with SouthCrest, did not attend the meeting.
In other business:
•Coggins Construction Company of Thomaston was awarded a $3.022 million bid for sanitary sewer improvements by a unanimous vote of council. With state grants, the city’s responsibility will be approximately $1,475,800 to complete the project.
•Council voted 3-0 (Tucker abstained) to authorize a $39,800 bid from J.M. Clayton Company to install two transformers at Dart Container-Solo Cup of Upson County. The board previously approved a $69,000 expense to purchase the transformers.
•Council members heard a presentation on an internal salary and benefits study which, if approved, could add as much as $381,000 to the city’s annual budget. Pension costs represented the largest increase at $212,017, followed by adjusted salaries at $92,406 and healthcare costs at $76,740. The topic will be placed on council’s next work session agenda for discussion.
•Despite recent community interest revolving around the R.E. Lee name and other imagery on public property, council took no action to reinstate the “public comments” portion of its regular meeting agenda. Due to health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus, council voted earlier this year to suspend “public comments.” A recent rise in positive cases influenced the decision, according to officials.
•Scout Troop 134 attended the meeting.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Council members voted unanimously last week to tentatively roll back the 2020 tax millage rate for city property owners, following similar action by Upson County Commissioners and the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education.
The rate will be lowered to 3.412 mills from the 2019 rate of 3.560 mills unless further action is taken by the mayor and council.
Board members also voted to accept a low bid of two percent interest rate from BB&T for a 15-year, $2.7 million loan, in the form of a T-U Office Building Authority Revenue Bond, for the construction of a new city fire department complex.
Local banks participated in the bidding process. Councilman Ryan Tucker, an officer with United Bank, abstained from the vote. Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head, an officer with SouthCrest, did not attend the meeting.
In other business:
•Coggins Construction Company of Thomaston was awarded a $3.022 million bid for sanitary sewer improvements by a unanimous vote of council. With state grants, the city’s responsibility will be approximately $1,475,800 to complete the project.
•Council voted 3-0 (Tucker abstained) to authorize a $39,800 bid from J.M. Clayton Company to install two transformers at Dart Container-Solo Cup of Upson County. The board previously approved a $69,000 expense to purchase the transformers.
•Council members heard a presentation on an internal salary and benefits study which, if approved, could add as much as $381,000 to the city’s annual budget. Pension costs represented the largest increase at $212,017, followed by adjusted salaries at $92,406 and healthcare costs at $76,740. The topic will be placed on council’s next work session agenda for discussion.
•Despite recent community interest revolving around the R.E. Lee name and other imagery on public property, council took no action to reinstate the “public comments” portion of its regular meeting agenda. Due to health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus, council voted earlier this year to suspend “public comments.” A recent rise in positive cases influenced the decision, according to officials.
•Scout Troop 134 attended the meeting.
BOE Lowers Millage
Published 7-30-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The Thomaston Upson Board of Education, at the July 21 meeting, tentatively approved a general fund operating budget for the 2020-21 school year of $41.6 million, which accommodates a $3.4 million reduction in revenue cuts from the State of Georgia.
The board also set a lower school millage rate for taxpayers in Upson County. The board set a tentative rate of 13.73 mills for calendar year 2020. Last year’s rate was 14.32 mills. Due to recent property assessments, the value of a mill has increased from $604,508 to $645,268.
“I think it’s worth noting that we have one of the lowest millage rates in our Griffin RESA District,” commented Board Member Jaye Eubanks.
Local taxes and receipts contribute $10,293,451 of estimated revenues for the budget.
The largest portion of the budget will be contributed toward instruction, estimated at $26,835,241.
The proposed budget and 2020 tax rate will be advertised for two weeks with supporting documents available on the school district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us. Final adoption of the budget and setting of the 2020 millage rate will be on the Tuesday, Aug. 11 board agenda.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The Thomaston Upson Board of Education, at the July 21 meeting, tentatively approved a general fund operating budget for the 2020-21 school year of $41.6 million, which accommodates a $3.4 million reduction in revenue cuts from the State of Georgia.
The board also set a lower school millage rate for taxpayers in Upson County. The board set a tentative rate of 13.73 mills for calendar year 2020. Last year’s rate was 14.32 mills. Due to recent property assessments, the value of a mill has increased from $604,508 to $645,268.
“I think it’s worth noting that we have one of the lowest millage rates in our Griffin RESA District,” commented Board Member Jaye Eubanks.
Local taxes and receipts contribute $10,293,451 of estimated revenues for the budget.
The largest portion of the budget will be contributed toward instruction, estimated at $26,835,241.
The proposed budget and 2020 tax rate will be advertised for two weeks with supporting documents available on the school district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us. Final adoption of the budget and setting of the 2020 millage rate will be on the Tuesday, Aug. 11 board agenda.
UPSON WOMAN IS BACK
Published 7-23-2020
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2020 UPSON WOMAN MAGAZINE
We proudly celebrate the achievements of our local women in this year’s edition of the Beacon’s Upson Woman Magazine. Upson Woman is a high-quality, full color magazine packed with stories about local women whose contributions to our community have made Upson a great place to live, work and play.
Throughout history and today, female professionals have contributed greatly to our economic, civic and cultural development. Today, women account for 66 million of our nation’s workforce and female-owned businesses account for 28 percent of all U.S. businesses. In addition, women spend about $5 trillion annually, and account for 85 percent of all consumer purchases.
Acknowledging the many important economical and advancement contributions, from small to large, made by women, is an important step toward creating a community that thrives.
From the medical field to mechanic, the courtroom to the conference table, from home to the nursery, Upson’s women contribute to every area of our success. Our goal is to bring women together and celebrate their lives and the differences among them.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2020 UPSON WOMAN MAGAZINE
We proudly celebrate the achievements of our local women in this year’s edition of the Beacon’s Upson Woman Magazine. Upson Woman is a high-quality, full color magazine packed with stories about local women whose contributions to our community have made Upson a great place to live, work and play.
Throughout history and today, female professionals have contributed greatly to our economic, civic and cultural development. Today, women account for 66 million of our nation’s workforce and female-owned businesses account for 28 percent of all U.S. businesses. In addition, women spend about $5 trillion annually, and account for 85 percent of all consumer purchases.
Acknowledging the many important economical and advancement contributions, from small to large, made by women, is an important step toward creating a community that thrives.
From the medical field to mechanic, the courtroom to the conference table, from home to the nursery, Upson’s women contribute to every area of our success. Our goal is to bring women together and celebrate their lives and the differences among them.
Commission Rolls Back ‘20 Millage Rate
Published 7-23-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
County commissioners voted unanimously last week to roll back Upson’s 2020 “tentative” millage rate from 8.990 to 8.600, meaning that approximately the same amount will be collected in existing property taxes as was collected during the previous cycle.
The millage rate was “adjusted for inflation,” according to County Manager Jason Tinsley, which includes recent increases in many assessments. However, the roll back does not insure that property owners will not see a tax increase – variance in appraisals will determine the final bill.
With the vote, commissioners approved a letter to Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain setting the tentative rate. When final action is taken, the board has the option of adopting or lowering the 8.600 millage. The commission cannot raise the rate unless “the process starts over,” Tinsley said.
Commissioners also voted unanimously to approve 2020 mid-year budget submissions from the Griffin Judicial Circuit, public defender’s office, district attorney’s office, McIntosh Trail Counseling Center, Upson County Health Department, Department of family & Children Services and the Pine Mountain Library System.
In other business, the board voted unanimously to award the low bid of $35,800 to Harper’s Tree Service for clearing of a sewer line maintenance easement from the Jeff Davis Road area to the lift station. Funds for the project previously were frozen by the county’s fiscal sustainability resolution regarding COVID-19 impact.
Commissioners voted 4-1 to conditionally approve a special exception for Jeff Yearwood of Concord for an observation platform on a 2.85-acre site located on Sprewell Bluff Road.
Board members previously expressed concerns regarding the height, placement, construction materials, and design of the platform. Conditions state that the platform be limited to personal use, meet certain safety standards, and that Yearwood return to the commission with any considerations for commercial use.
Commissioner James Ellington added conditions that the platform not exceed 60 feet in height, and that no attachments for commercial use, such as antennas, be attached to the structure.
Commissioner Benjamin Watson cast the lone vote against approval.
As part of the “consent agenda,” board members approved renewal of the resolution declaring a public health state of emergency in Upson County. Tinsley said the recent increase in COVID-19 cases prompted local officials to resume weekly conference calls to share updated information and address local concerns.
Commission Chairman Norman Allen stressed the importance of health consciousness, stating, “If you’re in a room with 30 people, chances are that someone there has [the virus].”
Tinsley also announced the upcoming retirement of Recreation Director Mindy Daniel.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
County commissioners voted unanimously last week to roll back Upson’s 2020 “tentative” millage rate from 8.990 to 8.600, meaning that approximately the same amount will be collected in existing property taxes as was collected during the previous cycle.
The millage rate was “adjusted for inflation,” according to County Manager Jason Tinsley, which includes recent increases in many assessments. However, the roll back does not insure that property owners will not see a tax increase – variance in appraisals will determine the final bill.
With the vote, commissioners approved a letter to Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain setting the tentative rate. When final action is taken, the board has the option of adopting or lowering the 8.600 millage. The commission cannot raise the rate unless “the process starts over,” Tinsley said.
Commissioners also voted unanimously to approve 2020 mid-year budget submissions from the Griffin Judicial Circuit, public defender’s office, district attorney’s office, McIntosh Trail Counseling Center, Upson County Health Department, Department of family & Children Services and the Pine Mountain Library System.
In other business, the board voted unanimously to award the low bid of $35,800 to Harper’s Tree Service for clearing of a sewer line maintenance easement from the Jeff Davis Road area to the lift station. Funds for the project previously were frozen by the county’s fiscal sustainability resolution regarding COVID-19 impact.
Commissioners voted 4-1 to conditionally approve a special exception for Jeff Yearwood of Concord for an observation platform on a 2.85-acre site located on Sprewell Bluff Road.
Board members previously expressed concerns regarding the height, placement, construction materials, and design of the platform. Conditions state that the platform be limited to personal use, meet certain safety standards, and that Yearwood return to the commission with any considerations for commercial use.
Commissioner James Ellington added conditions that the platform not exceed 60 feet in height, and that no attachments for commercial use, such as antennas, be attached to the structure.
Commissioner Benjamin Watson cast the lone vote against approval.
As part of the “consent agenda,” board members approved renewal of the resolution declaring a public health state of emergency in Upson County. Tinsley said the recent increase in COVID-19 cases prompted local officials to resume weekly conference calls to share updated information and address local concerns.
Commission Chairman Norman Allen stressed the importance of health consciousness, stating, “If you’re in a room with 30 people, chances are that someone there has [the virus].”
Tinsley also announced the upcoming retirement of Recreation Director Mindy Daniel.
Allen Invited to White House
Delegation Selected to Hear Trump Deregulation Speech
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Published 7-23-2020
Upson County Chairman Norman Allen was among 10 Georgia county commissioners invited to attend a speech by President Donald Trump on deregulation on the south lawn of the White House last week.
The group was selected by the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, and attendees were asked to “bring a mask.”
“I was privileged to receive the invitation from ACCG and to be a part of a group of fellow commission chairs from across the state to attend this speech,” Allen said. “This was an opportunity to hear first-hand from our President on his efforts to reduce and eliminate federal regulations that inhibit and slow growth, something that has been a priority of his since taking office.”
The Trump administration has been forceful in rolling back regulations on business and industry.
“For every new federal regulation implemented, they have eliminated nearly eight,” Allen continued. “This will spur new investments and accelerate projects, especially those where approval processes can take years.”
At one point during the afternoon, Allen said he was within 40 feet of the President, and within 20 feet of Vice President Mike Pence.
“I am always proud to represent our community,” Allen concluded, “and this was a special opportunity.”
Upson County Chairman Norman Allen was among 10 Georgia county commissioners invited to attend a speech by President Donald Trump on deregulation on the south lawn of the White House last week.
The group was selected by the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, and attendees were asked to “bring a mask.”
“I was privileged to receive the invitation from ACCG and to be a part of a group of fellow commission chairs from across the state to attend this speech,” Allen said. “This was an opportunity to hear first-hand from our President on his efforts to reduce and eliminate federal regulations that inhibit and slow growth, something that has been a priority of his since taking office.”
The Trump administration has been forceful in rolling back regulations on business and industry.
“For every new federal regulation implemented, they have eliminated nearly eight,” Allen continued. “This will spur new investments and accelerate projects, especially those where approval processes can take years.”
At one point during the afternoon, Allen said he was within 40 feet of the President, and within 20 feet of Vice President Mike Pence.
“I am always proud to represent our community,” Allen concluded, “and this was a special opportunity.”
Students Will Return Aug. 17
BOE Approves Revision to ULFAC Rental Agreement
Published 7-23-2020, Updated 7-24-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
At a recent meeting of the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico confirmed that the district will follow the 2020-21 calendar as published by the board. Teachers will return to work on July 28 to prepare for the next school year and students were scheduled to return Aug. 5.
After press time on Tuesday, the Thomaston-Upson Schools released the following statement:
“August 17 Will Be The First Day of School for T-U Students:
“Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico has announced a revised plan for opening Thomaston-Upson Schools for the 2020-21 school year. This plan was finalized and presented to the Board of Education after the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) notified the school system that COVID-19 community spread, as defined by DPH, has moved from “moderate” to “substantial” for District 4. District 4 includes Upson County and 11 surrounding counties.
According to the Thomaston-Upson revised plan:
• Students will return to school on August 17.
• Teachers will return to work as scheduled on July 28.
• All other T-U staff will return to work according to the original schedule.
• Pre-planning days will be utilized for professional development that will include training and preparation for remote, distance, and face-to-face learning.
• Parents will receive one final opportunity to sign up their students for remote learning. *Please note that the deadline for signing the agreement is July 29, 2020. There will be no extensions to this deadline due to the schools needing sufficient time for the preparation of remote learning. Once signed, the remote learning agreement is binding through the first 9-weeks for grades K-8 and through the first semester for grades 9-12.
• School meals will be available to all remote learning students.
• Face-to-face instruction will continue at all T-U schools unless closure is mandated or recommended by state, district, and/or community authorities.
• All enhanced safety and sanitization efforts will remain in place for face-to-face instruction.
The remote learning agreements for all T-U schools may be accessed below. They will also be available on the district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us. If you have additional questions, you may contact your school principal or the T-U district office at 706-647-9621.
Links to Remote Learning Agreements:
•Upson-Lee Primary School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/2nCCMQYPR3Fknnhb7
•Upson-Lee Elementary School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/oTPdkwCPGGrao6R3A
•Upson-Lee Middle School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/R6yb3kb22UmZazmm7
•Upson-Lee High School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/p1YzZ1T8aGvLLh9r9”
As the district will be offering both face-to-face learning and remote instruction options for students, school officials will begin contacting parents and guardians who submitted applications for remote learning to explain the school’s remote option. Parents who choose to have their child participate in remote learning will be asked to sign a remote learning contract. The T-U 2020-21 calendar, as well as an updated daily operation plan, is available at upson.k12.ga.us.
The board also approved a revision to the Upson-Lee Fine Arts Center Rental Policy & Agreement. The current policy includes an inclement weather clause, which has been altered to include the possibility of closures due to public health and safety. The new clause reads as follows:
“If the Thomaston-Upson School System is closed, ALL facilities are closed, regardless of whether or not there is an event scheduled in the Upson-Lee Fine Arts Center. This decision is made by the Thomaston-Upson School System administration and not by the client. Every effort will be made to reschedule the canceled event. If a suitable date/time cannot be agreed upon for rescheduling the event, all rental fees paid to T-U Schools for the canceled event will be refunded to the client. The Thomaston-Upson School System is not responsible for refunding any tickets sold for the event. The school district also reserves the right to refuse and/or limit rentals during a time of public health/safety concern.”
In other news, board members approved a spending resolution of the board for the month of August, since the fiscal year 2021 budget is still in discussion. The board approved waiving the early graduation policy for two students who will meet graduation requirements before the end of FY21; approved renewal of the Griffin RESA annual membership contract; approved a recurring budget request of $10,000 to the Thomaston-Upson Archives; approved Dr. Ann McLain to represent the T-U School system on the Pine Mountain Regional Library Board; and approved a revision of the high school graduation requirements, to become more in line with surrounding districts.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
At a recent meeting of the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico confirmed that the district will follow the 2020-21 calendar as published by the board. Teachers will return to work on July 28 to prepare for the next school year and students were scheduled to return Aug. 5.
After press time on Tuesday, the Thomaston-Upson Schools released the following statement:
“August 17 Will Be The First Day of School for T-U Students:
“Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico has announced a revised plan for opening Thomaston-Upson Schools for the 2020-21 school year. This plan was finalized and presented to the Board of Education after the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) notified the school system that COVID-19 community spread, as defined by DPH, has moved from “moderate” to “substantial” for District 4. District 4 includes Upson County and 11 surrounding counties.
According to the Thomaston-Upson revised plan:
• Students will return to school on August 17.
• Teachers will return to work as scheduled on July 28.
• All other T-U staff will return to work according to the original schedule.
• Pre-planning days will be utilized for professional development that will include training and preparation for remote, distance, and face-to-face learning.
• Parents will receive one final opportunity to sign up their students for remote learning. *Please note that the deadline for signing the agreement is July 29, 2020. There will be no extensions to this deadline due to the schools needing sufficient time for the preparation of remote learning. Once signed, the remote learning agreement is binding through the first 9-weeks for grades K-8 and through the first semester for grades 9-12.
• School meals will be available to all remote learning students.
• Face-to-face instruction will continue at all T-U schools unless closure is mandated or recommended by state, district, and/or community authorities.
• All enhanced safety and sanitization efforts will remain in place for face-to-face instruction.
The remote learning agreements for all T-U schools may be accessed below. They will also be available on the district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us. If you have additional questions, you may contact your school principal or the T-U district office at 706-647-9621.
Links to Remote Learning Agreements:
•Upson-Lee Primary School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/2nCCMQYPR3Fknnhb7
•Upson-Lee Elementary School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/oTPdkwCPGGrao6R3A
•Upson-Lee Middle School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/R6yb3kb22UmZazmm7
•Upson-Lee High School Remote Learning Agreement
https://forms.gle/p1YzZ1T8aGvLLh9r9”
As the district will be offering both face-to-face learning and remote instruction options for students, school officials will begin contacting parents and guardians who submitted applications for remote learning to explain the school’s remote option. Parents who choose to have their child participate in remote learning will be asked to sign a remote learning contract. The T-U 2020-21 calendar, as well as an updated daily operation plan, is available at upson.k12.ga.us.
The board also approved a revision to the Upson-Lee Fine Arts Center Rental Policy & Agreement. The current policy includes an inclement weather clause, which has been altered to include the possibility of closures due to public health and safety. The new clause reads as follows:
“If the Thomaston-Upson School System is closed, ALL facilities are closed, regardless of whether or not there is an event scheduled in the Upson-Lee Fine Arts Center. This decision is made by the Thomaston-Upson School System administration and not by the client. Every effort will be made to reschedule the canceled event. If a suitable date/time cannot be agreed upon for rescheduling the event, all rental fees paid to T-U Schools for the canceled event will be refunded to the client. The Thomaston-Upson School System is not responsible for refunding any tickets sold for the event. The school district also reserves the right to refuse and/or limit rentals during a time of public health/safety concern.”
In other news, board members approved a spending resolution of the board for the month of August, since the fiscal year 2021 budget is still in discussion. The board approved waiving the early graduation policy for two students who will meet graduation requirements before the end of FY21; approved renewal of the Griffin RESA annual membership contract; approved a recurring budget request of $10,000 to the Thomaston-Upson Archives; approved Dr. Ann McLain to represent the T-U School system on the Pine Mountain Regional Library Board; and approved a revision of the high school graduation requirements, to become more in line with surrounding districts.
Thompson Statement Addresses Changes to Government Property
Published 7-22-2020
Due to health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus, the Thomaston City Council voted earlier this year to suspend the “public comments” portion of meetings regularly held on the first and third Tuesdays each month. Citing a recent rise in positive cases, the council has chosen not to reinstate “public comments” until further notice.
Following is a statement issued by City Manager Russell Thompson:
“There has been much talk/discussion around town and on social media regarding the removal of the “R.E. Lee” name from the Thomaston-Upson Government Complex building, the removal of two paintings (Robert E. Lee and John B. Gordon) from the auditorium, and various other changes surrounding imagery, flags, etc. that are displayed on or at public property.
“The topic was slated for discussion at the regular meeting of the mayor and council for Aug. 4, 2020. However, at the beginning of COVID-19, the public comment portion of the council’s agenda was indefinitely suspended as a mitigation effort to help with social distancing at public meetings. To that effect, the reinstitution of that portion of the council’s agenda was discussed at the regular meeting held on July 21, 2020 and was not reenacted.
“The mayor and city council understand that this issue is one of great emotional concern to all parties - those supporting a change, and those opposed. For that reason, the matter will not be placed on a council agenda until such time as the matter can be discussed via public comment, town hall session, or other venue appropriate to allow for all voices to be heard.
“Until such a mechanism is agreed upon by the elected body, citizens wishing to express their opinions should contact their elected representatives. City of Thomaston councilmembers’ contact Information can be found at the following link: https://www.cityofthomaston.com/168/Mayor-City-Council
“From a procedural standpoint regarding the Government Complex and grounds, any potential changes require majority support from the Thomaston City Council and the Upson County Board of Commissioners, as the facilities are jointly owned. Once the matter is considered by the Thomaston City Council, if any changes are recommended, such recommendations would be forwarded via resolution to the Upson County Board of Commissioners for their consideration.”
Due to health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus, the Thomaston City Council voted earlier this year to suspend the “public comments” portion of meetings regularly held on the first and third Tuesdays each month. Citing a recent rise in positive cases, the council has chosen not to reinstate “public comments” until further notice.
Following is a statement issued by City Manager Russell Thompson:
“There has been much talk/discussion around town and on social media regarding the removal of the “R.E. Lee” name from the Thomaston-Upson Government Complex building, the removal of two paintings (Robert E. Lee and John B. Gordon) from the auditorium, and various other changes surrounding imagery, flags, etc. that are displayed on or at public property.
“The topic was slated for discussion at the regular meeting of the mayor and council for Aug. 4, 2020. However, at the beginning of COVID-19, the public comment portion of the council’s agenda was indefinitely suspended as a mitigation effort to help with social distancing at public meetings. To that effect, the reinstitution of that portion of the council’s agenda was discussed at the regular meeting held on July 21, 2020 and was not reenacted.
“The mayor and city council understand that this issue is one of great emotional concern to all parties - those supporting a change, and those opposed. For that reason, the matter will not be placed on a council agenda until such time as the matter can be discussed via public comment, town hall session, or other venue appropriate to allow for all voices to be heard.
“Until such a mechanism is agreed upon by the elected body, citizens wishing to express their opinions should contact their elected representatives. City of Thomaston councilmembers’ contact Information can be found at the following link: https://www.cityofthomaston.com/168/Mayor-City-Council
“From a procedural standpoint regarding the Government Complex and grounds, any potential changes require majority support from the Thomaston City Council and the Upson County Board of Commissioners, as the facilities are jointly owned. Once the matter is considered by the Thomaston City Council, if any changes are recommended, such recommendations would be forwarded via resolution to the Upson County Board of Commissioners for their consideration.”
Skydiving Accident Claims 2 Lives
Jeanna Triplicata and her grandmother moments before skydiving.
Published 7-16-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Two people were killed near the Thomaston-Upson County Airport Sunday afternoon when parachutes malfunctioned during a tandem skydive, according to a report from Upson Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
Jeanna Triplicata, 18, of Newnan and Nick Esposito, 35, of Warner Robbins were fatally injured from the fall and pronounced dead at the scene.
Esposito, an experienced skydiver and employee of Skydive Atlanta, which operates out of the local airport, was conducting a “tandem jump” in which he and Triplicata both were attached to the same parachute rig.
Upon exiting the aircraft, the primary parachute failed to open properly and begun spinning, according to reports. The emergency parachute did not deploy until the divers had reached an “extremely low altitude,” and did not fully open prior to impact.
Eyewitnesses confirm that the main parachute was deployed, according to a statement from Skydive Atlanta.
Triplicata, a first-time skydiver, and instructor Esposito were found by deputies in a field off Rocky Bottom Road. Triplicata’s grandmother, who agreed to jump on the same day, landed without incident.
“Since Jeanna turned 18 she had been wanting to skydive,” her mother commented in a social media post after the accident. “Grandma decided she wanted to go with her, and they booked a jump for today.
“They jumped and mom’s landing was perfect, she had a blast,” the post continued. “But Jeanna’s didn’t come down where she was supposed to and where we could see her. Tragically, we lost our oldest daughter today. She is in Heaven with her grandpa whom she loved and missed dearly.”
Skydive Atlanta is working with local authorities and the Federal Aviation Administration in an active investigation to clarify the details of what caused the accident, according to a company press release.
“Our community is devastated for both our team member and the student and their respective families,” owner Trey Holladay said. “We are all stunned and truly at a loss for words as we are a close-knit family. We have spoken with the next of kin and all are asking for privacy while we process and grieve.”
Skydive Atlanta has been operating for the past 35 years and has hosted tens of thousands of skydives since 1985.
An investigation is active and ongoing, according to the sheriff’s office.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Two people were killed near the Thomaston-Upson County Airport Sunday afternoon when parachutes malfunctioned during a tandem skydive, according to a report from Upson Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
Jeanna Triplicata, 18, of Newnan and Nick Esposito, 35, of Warner Robbins were fatally injured from the fall and pronounced dead at the scene.
Esposito, an experienced skydiver and employee of Skydive Atlanta, which operates out of the local airport, was conducting a “tandem jump” in which he and Triplicata both were attached to the same parachute rig.
Upon exiting the aircraft, the primary parachute failed to open properly and begun spinning, according to reports. The emergency parachute did not deploy until the divers had reached an “extremely low altitude,” and did not fully open prior to impact.
Eyewitnesses confirm that the main parachute was deployed, according to a statement from Skydive Atlanta.
Triplicata, a first-time skydiver, and instructor Esposito were found by deputies in a field off Rocky Bottom Road. Triplicata’s grandmother, who agreed to jump on the same day, landed without incident.
“Since Jeanna turned 18 she had been wanting to skydive,” her mother commented in a social media post after the accident. “Grandma decided she wanted to go with her, and they booked a jump for today.
“They jumped and mom’s landing was perfect, she had a blast,” the post continued. “But Jeanna’s didn’t come down where she was supposed to and where we could see her. Tragically, we lost our oldest daughter today. She is in Heaven with her grandpa whom she loved and missed dearly.”
Skydive Atlanta is working with local authorities and the Federal Aviation Administration in an active investigation to clarify the details of what caused the accident, according to a company press release.
“Our community is devastated for both our team member and the student and their respective families,” owner Trey Holladay said. “We are all stunned and truly at a loss for words as we are a close-knit family. We have spoken with the next of kin and all are asking for privacy while we process and grieve.”
Skydive Atlanta has been operating for the past 35 years and has hosted tens of thousands of skydives since 1985.
An investigation is active and ongoing, according to the sheriff’s office.
DA Broder to Appear
on TV’s 20/20 Friday
Cold Case Murder Prosecuted After 3 Decades
District Attorney Marie Broder
Published 7-16-2020
Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Greene Broder will appear on ABC’s television newsmagazine 20/20 Friday night to discuss a racially motivated cold case that remained unsolved in Spalding County for more than 34 years.
“In the Cold Dark Night” airs at 9 p.m. EST.
Timothy Coggins, age 23, was brutally murdered in 1983. He was stabbed approximately 30 times then dragged behind a pickup truck by a chain, and his body left in a field off Minter Road in Griffin. “X” marks had been cut into his body, according to a New York Times report.
“It was done to send a message,” Spalding Sheriff Darrell Dix said. “It was overkill.”
Investigators at the time said Coggins, a handyman who grew up in the area, had been “dancing and socializing with a white woman” on the night of Oct. 7 at the People’s Choice, a nightclub in Griffin.
Sheriff Dix and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation reopened the case in December 2016 after new evidence was presented.
In 2018, when the trial started, Broder was chief assistant district attorney and Ben Coker of Upson County was district attorney for the circuit. Broder and Coker faced challenges in prosecuting the case, but together they were successful in bringing justice to the Coggins family when Timothy’s killers were convicted.
In June 2018 Franklin Gebhardt of Sunnyside in Spalding County was sentenced by Judge Fletcher Sams to life plus 20 years in prison for malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, and concealing the death of another.
“Hopefully, sir, you have stabbed your last victim,” Judge Sams said.
“Just over two years ago, Franklin Gebhardt, one of the individuals responsible for the brutal murder of Timothy Coggins, finally faced a jury,” Broder told The Upson Beacon. “At the end of the trial, the Spalding County DA’s Office, Sheriff Dix, GBI Agent Jared Coleman, and the Coggins family sat with pounding hearts in a courtroom awaiting the jury’s verdict.”
Agent Coleman said Gebhardt had bragged about the murder for decades, claiming Coggins “had been messing around with his old lady.”
Two months later in August 2018, Gebhardt’s brother-in-law Bill Moore pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter and concealing a body. Moore received a 20-year prison sentence, plus 10 years’ probation.
“Now, it is time for America to hear Timothy Coggins’ heart-wrenching story,” Broder concluded. “I am honored to have played a small part.”
Other arrests included Gebhardt’s sister, Sandra Bunn, and nephew, Lamar Bunn, who were charged with obstruction. Gregory Huffman, a detention officer with the Spalding Sheriff’s Office, was charged with obstruction and violating oath of office.
Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie Greene Broder will appear on ABC’s television newsmagazine 20/20 Friday night to discuss a racially motivated cold case that remained unsolved in Spalding County for more than 34 years.
“In the Cold Dark Night” airs at 9 p.m. EST.
Timothy Coggins, age 23, was brutally murdered in 1983. He was stabbed approximately 30 times then dragged behind a pickup truck by a chain, and his body left in a field off Minter Road in Griffin. “X” marks had been cut into his body, according to a New York Times report.
“It was done to send a message,” Spalding Sheriff Darrell Dix said. “It was overkill.”
Investigators at the time said Coggins, a handyman who grew up in the area, had been “dancing and socializing with a white woman” on the night of Oct. 7 at the People’s Choice, a nightclub in Griffin.
Sheriff Dix and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation reopened the case in December 2016 after new evidence was presented.
In 2018, when the trial started, Broder was chief assistant district attorney and Ben Coker of Upson County was district attorney for the circuit. Broder and Coker faced challenges in prosecuting the case, but together they were successful in bringing justice to the Coggins family when Timothy’s killers were convicted.
In June 2018 Franklin Gebhardt of Sunnyside in Spalding County was sentenced by Judge Fletcher Sams to life plus 20 years in prison for malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, and concealing the death of another.
“Hopefully, sir, you have stabbed your last victim,” Judge Sams said.
“Just over two years ago, Franklin Gebhardt, one of the individuals responsible for the brutal murder of Timothy Coggins, finally faced a jury,” Broder told The Upson Beacon. “At the end of the trial, the Spalding County DA’s Office, Sheriff Dix, GBI Agent Jared Coleman, and the Coggins family sat with pounding hearts in a courtroom awaiting the jury’s verdict.”
Agent Coleman said Gebhardt had bragged about the murder for decades, claiming Coggins “had been messing around with his old lady.”
Two months later in August 2018, Gebhardt’s brother-in-law Bill Moore pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter and concealing a body. Moore received a 20-year prison sentence, plus 10 years’ probation.
“Now, it is time for America to hear Timothy Coggins’ heart-wrenching story,” Broder concluded. “I am honored to have played a small part.”
Other arrests included Gebhardt’s sister, Sandra Bunn, and nephew, Lamar Bunn, who were charged with obstruction. Gregory Huffman, a detention officer with the Spalding Sheriff’s Office, was charged with obstruction and violating oath of office.
Annual Freedom Fest Was an Explosive Success
Published 7-9-2020
The City of Thomaston and Main Street Association held its annual Freedom Fest last weekend at Greatest Generation Memorial Park to celebrate Independence Day.
“We could not have a great event like this for our community if it wasn’t for the sponsors who give back by donating funds for the fireworks because they want to see great things happen in this community,” said Main Street Director Heather Blackmon.
Hundreds of people came to see the fireworks show at Greatest Generation Park. Families brought picnics and played at the park while enjoying music by the Brick City Band. While practicing social distancing, many families were seen watching the fireworks show from nearby parking lots and fields.
The Annual Freedom Fest was sponsored by the City of Thomaston, Upson County, Coggins Funeral Home, United Bank, Kay Robinson State Farm, SouthCrest Bank, West Central Georgia Bank, McGriff Insurance Services, Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, Premier Machine, Upson EMC, Fun101.1 FM, and The Upson Beacon.
See additional highlights in next week's edition of The Upson Beacon. Photos by Luke Haney.
The City of Thomaston and Main Street Association held its annual Freedom Fest last weekend at Greatest Generation Memorial Park to celebrate Independence Day.
“We could not have a great event like this for our community if it wasn’t for the sponsors who give back by donating funds for the fireworks because they want to see great things happen in this community,” said Main Street Director Heather Blackmon.
Hundreds of people came to see the fireworks show at Greatest Generation Park. Families brought picnics and played at the park while enjoying music by the Brick City Band. While practicing social distancing, many families were seen watching the fireworks show from nearby parking lots and fields.
The Annual Freedom Fest was sponsored by the City of Thomaston, Upson County, Coggins Funeral Home, United Bank, Kay Robinson State Farm, SouthCrest Bank, West Central Georgia Bank, McGriff Insurance Services, Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, Premier Machine, Upson EMC, Fun101.1 FM, and The Upson Beacon.
See additional highlights in next week's edition of The Upson Beacon. Photos by Luke Haney.
TPD Arrests Snellville
Man for Drugs, Theft
Published 7-9-2020
Richard Alan Moncrief of Snellville was arrested on drug, firearm, and theft-related charges last week after a traffic stop for operating a motorcycle without wearing a helmet, according to reports from the Thomaston Police Department.
Moncrief refused to provide a driver’s license, proof of insurance, or cooperate during the stop, claiming that he “was not driving,” he “was traveling,” and “did not need a license to travel.” During the arrest, TPD K-9 handler Jared Fordham removed a handgun from a holster on Moncrief’s side, the report stated.
“I noticed a strong odor of marijuana while standing near the motorcycle,” Fordham said. “While I was conducting an inventory of the vehicle, I opened the zipper of the backpack that was attached to the gas tank… and located a plastic bag containing a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana.”
A check of the serial number determined that the 9mm handgun in Moncrief’s possession was reported stolen in Spalding County, according to the report.
“There were also rocky crystalline substances visible within the plastic bags that were suspected to be methamphetamine,” Fordham said. An electronic scale was found in the bag containing the narcotics.
“The marijuana was packaged in two separate plastic baggies, and the meth was packaged in four separate baggies, in a manner that is commonly used for the distribution or sale of narcotics,” Fordham explained. “Moncrief also had approximately $2,350 in his pocket, in various denominations.”
Approximate weight of the meth was 10 grams, and approximate weight of the marijuana was 20 grams, the report stated.
Moncrief was charged with possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, theft by receiving stolen property, criminal use of an article with an altered ID mark, and multiple traffic violations.
Other recent unrelated TPD arrests include Lawrence Edward Johnson, possession of meth; and Deric Shane McCall, possession of a Schedule I controlled substance, possession of cocaine, and felony probation violation.
Richard Alan Moncrief of Snellville was arrested on drug, firearm, and theft-related charges last week after a traffic stop for operating a motorcycle without wearing a helmet, according to reports from the Thomaston Police Department.
Moncrief refused to provide a driver’s license, proof of insurance, or cooperate during the stop, claiming that he “was not driving,” he “was traveling,” and “did not need a license to travel.” During the arrest, TPD K-9 handler Jared Fordham removed a handgun from a holster on Moncrief’s side, the report stated.
“I noticed a strong odor of marijuana while standing near the motorcycle,” Fordham said. “While I was conducting an inventory of the vehicle, I opened the zipper of the backpack that was attached to the gas tank… and located a plastic bag containing a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana.”
A check of the serial number determined that the 9mm handgun in Moncrief’s possession was reported stolen in Spalding County, according to the report.
“There were also rocky crystalline substances visible within the plastic bags that were suspected to be methamphetamine,” Fordham said. An electronic scale was found in the bag containing the narcotics.
“The marijuana was packaged in two separate plastic baggies, and the meth was packaged in four separate baggies, in a manner that is commonly used for the distribution or sale of narcotics,” Fordham explained. “Moncrief also had approximately $2,350 in his pocket, in various denominations.”
Approximate weight of the meth was 10 grams, and approximate weight of the marijuana was 20 grams, the report stated.
Moncrief was charged with possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, theft by receiving stolen property, criminal use of an article with an altered ID mark, and multiple traffic violations.
Other recent unrelated TPD arrests include Lawrence Edward Johnson, possession of meth; and Deric Shane McCall, possession of a Schedule I controlled substance, possession of cocaine, and felony probation violation.
Funeral Services Planned
July 18 for Sheryl Hammack
Published 7-9-2020
Funeral Services for Shirlene “Sheryl” Ann Hammack, a Thomaston teen missing for 38 years, are planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18 at Christ Chapel in Zebulon, according to family members.
Pastor Billy Smith will officiate, and Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of arrangements.
The Upson Beacon published a story in January documenting Sheryl’s disappearance and murder in Brooks County. A series of fateful events led officials to believe that a “Jane Doe” found near Dixie, Ga. in 1981 could be Hammack, and DNA tests confirmed her identity in December 2019.
Issues with Hammack’s death certificate have delayed the return of her remains for months, according to the family.
A memorial fund has been established to help offset costs associated with Sheryl’s return and funeral. Donations can be made to Shirlene Hammack Memorial Fund, Account 832653, United Bank, P.O. Box 551, Thomaston, GA 30286.
Funeral Services for Shirlene “Sheryl” Ann Hammack, a Thomaston teen missing for 38 years, are planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18 at Christ Chapel in Zebulon, according to family members.
Pastor Billy Smith will officiate, and Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of arrangements.
The Upson Beacon published a story in January documenting Sheryl’s disappearance and murder in Brooks County. A series of fateful events led officials to believe that a “Jane Doe” found near Dixie, Ga. in 1981 could be Hammack, and DNA tests confirmed her identity in December 2019.
Issues with Hammack’s death certificate have delayed the return of her remains for months, according to the family.
A memorial fund has been established to help offset costs associated with Sheryl’s return and funeral. Donations can be made to Shirlene Hammack Memorial Fund, Account 832653, United Bank, P.O. Box 551, Thomaston, GA 30286.
School System Plans Tentative Opening Aug. 5
FAQs Answered
Published 7-2-2020
The Thomaston-Upson School System has announced its intention to reopen local schools Wednesday, Aug. 5, according to a statement from Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico.
The tentative reopening would coincide with a previously published 2020-21 school year calendar which is available on the district website.
School administrators “have spent numerous hours in collaboration with District 4 Department of Public Health officials” and have drafted a plan based on the information received at state and district levels, Dr. Derico explained. “The plan incorporates guidance and best practices from the Georgia Department of Education, the governor’s office, and the Georgia DPH.”
Derico warned that the system’s plan could change at any time.
“Face-to-face instruction will be based on levels of community spread of COVID-19 as determined by the Georgia DPH,” he said. “Enhanced measures to protect the health and safety of students and staff are an integral part of the reopening plan. As always, the safety of our students and staff are a top priority.”
Under the “traditional learning option,” schools will follow the 2020-21 calendar posted at www.upson.k12.ga.us under the “parents” tab. The option could be adjusted according to level of viral spread as follows:
•Low/no spread: Traditional schedule; daily face-to-face instruction will take place in classrooms; measures to protect the health and safety of students and staff remain in place.
•Minimal/moderate spread: Modified traditional schedule; students will participate in daily face-to-face instruction; enhanced measures to protect the health and safety of students and staff will be enacted.
•Distance learning schedule: School buildings are closed; all students will participate in distance learning; students will receive guidance on academic instruction from their school.
The system will offer a “remote learning option” for parents who desire to have students receive instruction from home. Under this option, a limited number of electronic devices will be available for checkout to students, and reliable internet access must be available at the student’s home.
Parents selecting the remote option must complete an online application by July 15 and commit to the entire first semester (August to December) at the high school, or to a full nine weeks grading period at the primary, elementary or middle school levels. Remote options for pre-kindergarten will be announced later.
“I want to thank you for trusting the [system] to provide your student with a safe and healthy learning environment,” Derico said in a message to families. “I also want to ask for your continued support as we implement additional safety precautions to protect those students choosing the traditional learning option. I look forward to welcoming our students back to school for the 2020-21 academic year.”
2020-2021 School Year Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Will the 2020-21 school year begin as scheduled?
At this time, plans are to follow the previously published Thomaston-Upson School System 2020-21 School Year Calendar. This calendar is available on the district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us under the “Parents” tab. Students’ first day of class will be Wednesday, August 5.
2. What will the 2020-21 school year look like?
The Thomaston-Upson School System is offering parents two options for student learning this fall:
•traditional learning option (face-to-face in class instruction) and
•remote learning option
3. How does the remote learning option differ from the distance learning my child participated in this past school year during the school closure?
The rigor and academic standards for students choosing the remote learning option will be equivalent to the traditional face-to-face expectations for students. There will be daily requirements and students will receive grades that will count toward their final average. Remote learning will differ by school and by grade level, and each school will give detailed information to parents and students who apply for the remote option. The remote learning application will be available on the T-U district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us beginning on Wednesday, July 1. The application must be completed by July 15.
4. What increased sanitization methods will be in place for the traditional learning option?
Sanitization efforts will be increased throughout the day and school buildings will be deep cleaned and disinfected every school day. Buses will be cleaned twice per day. Classroom tools & manipulatives will be cleaned and sanitized. All classrooms and school buses will be equipped with hand sanitizer dispensers.
5. Will my child have his/her temperature checked daily?
All students and staff will have their temperature checked daily. These checks will occur upon boarding a school bus in the morning or upon entering a school building. Touch-free infrared thermometers will be used. A temperature of 100.4 degrees for students and staff will be considered elevated. Individuals with an elevated temperature will not be allowed to stay at school. Please help us by keeping your child home if he or she does not feel well and by ensuring that your child’s emergency contact numbers are up to date.
6. Will my child be required to wear a mask?
On the 1st day of school, every student will be given 2 face masks. Students will not be required to wear the masks, but they will be encouraged to use these masks at school as a means of keeping themselves and their peers safe and healthy. (Students who register a temperature of 100.4 or above will be required to wear a mask while waiting for a parent/emergency contact to pick them up from school.)
7. Will my child eat lunch in the cafeteria?
No. Students will eat breakfast and lunch in the classrooms until further notice.
8. Will my child be allowed to drink from the school water fountain?
No. The water fountains will not be operable for individual student use. On the first day of school, every student will receive a reusable water bottle that can be brought to school each day filled with water only.
If you have additional questions, please contact your child’s school or the T-U District Office at 706-647-9621
The Thomaston-Upson School System has announced its intention to reopen local schools Wednesday, Aug. 5, according to a statement from Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico.
The tentative reopening would coincide with a previously published 2020-21 school year calendar which is available on the district website.
School administrators “have spent numerous hours in collaboration with District 4 Department of Public Health officials” and have drafted a plan based on the information received at state and district levels, Dr. Derico explained. “The plan incorporates guidance and best practices from the Georgia Department of Education, the governor’s office, and the Georgia DPH.”
Derico warned that the system’s plan could change at any time.
“Face-to-face instruction will be based on levels of community spread of COVID-19 as determined by the Georgia DPH,” he said. “Enhanced measures to protect the health and safety of students and staff are an integral part of the reopening plan. As always, the safety of our students and staff are a top priority.”
Under the “traditional learning option,” schools will follow the 2020-21 calendar posted at www.upson.k12.ga.us under the “parents” tab. The option could be adjusted according to level of viral spread as follows:
•Low/no spread: Traditional schedule; daily face-to-face instruction will take place in classrooms; measures to protect the health and safety of students and staff remain in place.
•Minimal/moderate spread: Modified traditional schedule; students will participate in daily face-to-face instruction; enhanced measures to protect the health and safety of students and staff will be enacted.
•Distance learning schedule: School buildings are closed; all students will participate in distance learning; students will receive guidance on academic instruction from their school.
The system will offer a “remote learning option” for parents who desire to have students receive instruction from home. Under this option, a limited number of electronic devices will be available for checkout to students, and reliable internet access must be available at the student’s home.
Parents selecting the remote option must complete an online application by July 15 and commit to the entire first semester (August to December) at the high school, or to a full nine weeks grading period at the primary, elementary or middle school levels. Remote options for pre-kindergarten will be announced later.
“I want to thank you for trusting the [system] to provide your student with a safe and healthy learning environment,” Derico said in a message to families. “I also want to ask for your continued support as we implement additional safety precautions to protect those students choosing the traditional learning option. I look forward to welcoming our students back to school for the 2020-21 academic year.”
2020-2021 School Year Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Will the 2020-21 school year begin as scheduled?
At this time, plans are to follow the previously published Thomaston-Upson School System 2020-21 School Year Calendar. This calendar is available on the district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us under the “Parents” tab. Students’ first day of class will be Wednesday, August 5.
2. What will the 2020-21 school year look like?
The Thomaston-Upson School System is offering parents two options for student learning this fall:
•traditional learning option (face-to-face in class instruction) and
•remote learning option
3. How does the remote learning option differ from the distance learning my child participated in this past school year during the school closure?
The rigor and academic standards for students choosing the remote learning option will be equivalent to the traditional face-to-face expectations for students. There will be daily requirements and students will receive grades that will count toward their final average. Remote learning will differ by school and by grade level, and each school will give detailed information to parents and students who apply for the remote option. The remote learning application will be available on the T-U district website at www.upson.k12.ga.us beginning on Wednesday, July 1. The application must be completed by July 15.
4. What increased sanitization methods will be in place for the traditional learning option?
Sanitization efforts will be increased throughout the day and school buildings will be deep cleaned and disinfected every school day. Buses will be cleaned twice per day. Classroom tools & manipulatives will be cleaned and sanitized. All classrooms and school buses will be equipped with hand sanitizer dispensers.
5. Will my child have his/her temperature checked daily?
All students and staff will have their temperature checked daily. These checks will occur upon boarding a school bus in the morning or upon entering a school building. Touch-free infrared thermometers will be used. A temperature of 100.4 degrees for students and staff will be considered elevated. Individuals with an elevated temperature will not be allowed to stay at school. Please help us by keeping your child home if he or she does not feel well and by ensuring that your child’s emergency contact numbers are up to date.
6. Will my child be required to wear a mask?
On the 1st day of school, every student will be given 2 face masks. Students will not be required to wear the masks, but they will be encouraged to use these masks at school as a means of keeping themselves and their peers safe and healthy. (Students who register a temperature of 100.4 or above will be required to wear a mask while waiting for a parent/emergency contact to pick them up from school.)
7. Will my child eat lunch in the cafeteria?
No. Students will eat breakfast and lunch in the classrooms until further notice.
8. Will my child be allowed to drink from the school water fountain?
No. The water fountains will not be operable for individual student use. On the first day of school, every student will receive a reusable water bottle that can be brought to school each day filled with water only.
If you have additional questions, please contact your child’s school or the T-U District Office at 706-647-9621
County Awards $507k Insurance Renewal Locally
Mid-Year Budget Submissions Heard
Published 7-2-2020
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Commissioners voted unanimously last week to approve a $507,000 renewal of Upson County’s property, liability, and workers compensation insurance with Travelers, brokered locally by McGriff Insurance Services.
McGriff got the nod despite being underbid by the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, which submitted a $478,700 proposal for equivalent coverage. County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners he used a points allocation system to reach a staff recommendation for renewal with Travelers.
The five criteria used were cost, qualifications, ability to address specific needs, reputation and references, and local preference, according to Tinsley. He said both groups received equally high marks in qualifications and reputation, with ACCG gaining an advantage in the cost and “specific needs” categories.
Local preference proved to be the determining factor, Tinsley stated, pushing McGriff past ACCG by a narrow 96-95 margin in the points system.
“State cuts” were a common theme during presentations from departments submitting mid-year budget proposals to the commission. At least two departments, the district attorney’s office and Department of Family & Children Services, mentioned furloughs as a probability in coming months.
Recently appointed DA Marie Broder told commissioners that Upson has seen an increase in criminal cases, and now is in line with the caseload in Fayette County. Much of the uptick can be attributed to methamphetamine-related drug cases, according to Broder, and Upson is handling the same quantity as Fayette with one-third the staff.
The bottom line, Broder said, is Upson needs two more investigators.
Included in the DA’s budget are Superior Court, probate, municipal, and juvenile courts.
Alan Adams said the public defenders’ office needs one more attorney to adequately provide representation to the number of defendants requiring its service.
DFCS officials anticipate state budget cuts of between 11 and 14 percent for foster care expenses.
Following presentations, Tinsley said because of the effect of COVID-19, the county is asking for five percent budget reductions across the board.
In other business, commissioners voted unanimously to appoint Tinsley and local Emergency Management Agency Director Martha Anne McCarty to the Emergency Medical Services Council.
By Bridge Turner, Managing Editor
Commissioners voted unanimously last week to approve a $507,000 renewal of Upson County’s property, liability, and workers compensation insurance with Travelers, brokered locally by McGriff Insurance Services.
McGriff got the nod despite being underbid by the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, which submitted a $478,700 proposal for equivalent coverage. County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners he used a points allocation system to reach a staff recommendation for renewal with Travelers.
The five criteria used were cost, qualifications, ability to address specific needs, reputation and references, and local preference, according to Tinsley. He said both groups received equally high marks in qualifications and reputation, with ACCG gaining an advantage in the cost and “specific needs” categories.
Local preference proved to be the determining factor, Tinsley stated, pushing McGriff past ACCG by a narrow 96-95 margin in the points system.
“State cuts” were a common theme during presentations from departments submitting mid-year budget proposals to the commission. At least two departments, the district attorney’s office and Department of Family & Children Services, mentioned furloughs as a probability in coming months.
Recently appointed DA Marie Broder told commissioners that Upson has seen an increase in criminal cases, and now is in line with the caseload in Fayette County. Much of the uptick can be attributed to methamphetamine-related drug cases, according to Broder, and Upson is handling the same quantity as Fayette with one-third the staff.
The bottom line, Broder said, is Upson needs two more investigators.
Included in the DA’s budget are Superior Court, probate, municipal, and juvenile courts.
Alan Adams said the public defenders’ office needs one more attorney to adequately provide representation to the number of defendants requiring its service.
DFCS officials anticipate state budget cuts of between 11 and 14 percent for foster care expenses.
Following presentations, Tinsley said because of the effect of COVID-19, the county is asking for five percent budget reductions across the board.
In other business, commissioners voted unanimously to appoint Tinsley and local Emergency Management Agency Director Martha Anne McCarty to the Emergency Medical Services Council.
Freedom Fest is Saturday
Published 7-2-2020
The City of Thomaston will hold its annual Freedom Fest Saturday, July 4 from 8 to 10 p.m.
The free community event will be held at Greatest Generation Memorial Park and will include live music from the Brick City Band and a full fireworks display.
This year, food vendors will not be available. Everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic on the lawn and socially distance as well as possible. The City of Thomaston will be continuously monitoring and sanitizing the bathroom during the event. At a recent park planning committee meeting, City Manager Russell Thompson said that he encourages anyone who feels uncomfortable in the crowd to park nearby and watch the fireworks show at a distance.
The City of Thomaston will hold its annual Freedom Fest Saturday, July 4 from 8 to 10 p.m.
The free community event will be held at Greatest Generation Memorial Park and will include live music from the Brick City Band and a full fireworks display.
This year, food vendors will not be available. Everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic on the lawn and socially distance as well as possible. The City of Thomaston will be continuously monitoring and sanitizing the bathroom during the event. At a recent park planning committee meeting, City Manager Russell Thompson said that he encourages anyone who feels uncomfortable in the crowd to park nearby and watch the fireworks show at a distance.
‘Yes, We Are Our Brothers’ Keepers’
Published 6-25-2020
By Luke Haney
A peaceful demonstration was held in Thomaston last weekend.
“The demonstration and march are not to point fingers at our law enforcement officers,” organizer Daphne Dumas said. “It’s about peace, unity and awareness against racial injustice, inequality and police brutality in America, and to prevent something like what’s happened [in other areas of the country] from ever happening here.”
The demonstration began at Stonewell Baptist Church and participants marched to downtown Thomaston, where community leaders, including Pastor Coleman Dumas, Mayor J.D. Stallings, Police Chief Michael Richardson, Sheriff Dan Kilgore, Daphne Dumas and University of Georgia Basketball Player Tavias Fagan, spoke on the issues facing America.
“I come here to say it’s time to stand united,” said Mayor Stallings, “united together for the good of all people. It was Dr. Martin Luther King that said, ‘we must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.’ We point out flaws in our system at the same time we stand behind our local law enforcement officers. We can’t let the actions of a few bad seeds ruin the good of most all the others.”
Organizer Daphne Dumas stated, “Thomaston, we have a long way to go before we can claim greatness, but we here today can begin to make America better… On this day we decree and declare that there must be justice and equality for everyone.”
Dumas quoted the book of Genesis and the story of brothers Kane and Abel.
“Kane asked God a question in Genesis Chapter 4. He said, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’ But that was not a question for God to answer,” commented Dumas, “but rather for all beings to answer. So let this question be answered by all of us today, with a resounding yes.”
Dumas and the crowd sang “Yes, we are our brothers’ keepers.” “I am so happy that we can stand together in unity and love. Let’s have one voice, because we are our brothers’ keepers,” said Dumas.
The program ended with an eight minute, 46-second moment of silence, the same amount of time that George Floyd had a Minneapolis officer’s knee on his neck.
Photos by Luke Haney
IDA Favors Incentive
for Prospective Hotel
Board Appoints Caldwell New Attorney
Johnnie Caldwell, Jr.
Published 6-25-2020
By Bridge Turner
Members of the Thomaston-Upson Industrial Development Authority agreed Monday that monetary incentives should be part of discussions taking place with a hotel chain considering location along the Highway 19 North corridor.
Executive Director Kyle Fletcher warned that she is in “early stages” of negotiating with the unnamed prospect, but told members she needs confirmation that the group is willing to participate in a performance-based incentive program to move forward. Figures from $200,000 to $250,000 were discussed.
The prospect has indicated a possible $10 million capital investment with 78 beds and 20 employees. Any incentive would be tied to the company meeting every aspect of investment and new job projections within a certain time frame.
City Manager Russell Thompson suggested a tier-based incentive program based on amenities provided by the hotel, which could include conference accommodations, a swimming pool, and a lounge. He added that the city is “already on top of improvements” needed in the area to meet wastewater needs of that type business.
IDA members have identified an interior corridor hotel as a “major need” for Upson County and agreed to participate in an incentive program, but also agreed that more information is necessary before settling on an amount.
Fletcher said she has met with the prospect several times, and it was not a referral from the board’s retained consulting firm.
In other business, members voted unanimously to appoint Johnnie L. Caldwell, Jr. of Caldwell & Lowry, LLC as the new IDA attorney. Caldwell has more than 48 years of legal experience, including 15 years as district attorney and 15 years as a Superior Court judge in the Griffin Judicial Circuit. He also served as state representative of House District 131, which includes Upson County.
The board is continuing to review funding options for wastewater improvements in the Central Georgia Business and Technology Park. A written agreement among the IDA, city and county is necessary before work begins on development of nine speculative sites at the park.
The industrial park sign located off Barnesville Highway was destroyed because of a two-vehicle traffic accident, according to Fletcher, who said the IDA is awaiting an insurance company settlement to reconstruct the sign.
By Bridge Turner
Members of the Thomaston-Upson Industrial Development Authority agreed Monday that monetary incentives should be part of discussions taking place with a hotel chain considering location along the Highway 19 North corridor.
Executive Director Kyle Fletcher warned that she is in “early stages” of negotiating with the unnamed prospect, but told members she needs confirmation that the group is willing to participate in a performance-based incentive program to move forward. Figures from $200,000 to $250,000 were discussed.
The prospect has indicated a possible $10 million capital investment with 78 beds and 20 employees. Any incentive would be tied to the company meeting every aspect of investment and new job projections within a certain time frame.
City Manager Russell Thompson suggested a tier-based incentive program based on amenities provided by the hotel, which could include conference accommodations, a swimming pool, and a lounge. He added that the city is “already on top of improvements” needed in the area to meet wastewater needs of that type business.
IDA members have identified an interior corridor hotel as a “major need” for Upson County and agreed to participate in an incentive program, but also agreed that more information is necessary before settling on an amount.
Fletcher said she has met with the prospect several times, and it was not a referral from the board’s retained consulting firm.
In other business, members voted unanimously to appoint Johnnie L. Caldwell, Jr. of Caldwell & Lowry, LLC as the new IDA attorney. Caldwell has more than 48 years of legal experience, including 15 years as district attorney and 15 years as a Superior Court judge in the Griffin Judicial Circuit. He also served as state representative of House District 131, which includes Upson County.
The board is continuing to review funding options for wastewater improvements in the Central Georgia Business and Technology Park. A written agreement among the IDA, city and county is necessary before work begins on development of nine speculative sites at the park.
The industrial park sign located off Barnesville Highway was destroyed because of a two-vehicle traffic accident, according to Fletcher, who said the IDA is awaiting an insurance company settlement to reconstruct the sign.
Thomaston Man Killed
While on Job in Florida
Phillip Harley
Published 6-25-2020
Editor’s Note: Phillip Harley of Thomaston was one of two men shot and killed while working in Jacksonville, Fla. last week. Following is a story by Maggie Lorenz that appeared on the News4JAX website:
After two men were shot and killed while working on a cellphone tower on Jacksonville’s Westside, a coworker is now saying he has always worried something like this could happen on the job.
Phillip Harley, 37, was one of the two men shot Thursday at the tower off Firestone Road and Morse Avenue. As telecommunication technicians, Harley and his colleague traveled from Thomaston to work in Jacksonville last week.
An officer at the scene Thursday said it was unclear if the shooting was part of a robbery.
Both victims were found just after 6 a.m. inside a small building at the base of the tower. Each had been shot multiple times in the early morning hours.
Guy Robinson called Harley his best friend.
Robinson and Harley had been working together as telecommunication technicians for years. Their work involves being subcontracted by network providers, such as AT&T, to upgrade wireless network equipment across the Southeast.
Robinson said he has always fretted over something like Thursday’s tragedy. And he never imagined it would happen to his best friend, a father of five.
“We lost a great man,” Robinson said. “(He was) just working to feed his family, and this is how he gets repaid.”
Robinson immediately drove to Jacksonville when he heard his best friend had been killed. He was the one to pick up their shared tools and equipment and retrieve their box truck from the crime scene.
“I had to go be with the detectives and everything on that,” Robinson said. “I’m really at a loss for words, to be honest with you.”
Harley and his coworker got to the Firestone Road tower about 10 p.m. Wednesday, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Their bodies were found the next morning. Police are piecing together what happened in the hours between.
Robinson said overnight hours on tower sites are inherently dangerous due to low visibility and poor security.
“Sometimes you can close the gate and lock it, but even if you do close the gate and lock it, they can easily get in,” Robinson said. “And if you’re shut in the shelter, there’s no windows or anything, so you can’t see out.”
He said sometimes they cannot even close site gates, because some perimeters are too small to fit their utility truck.
Robinson said, to his knowledge, whoever did this did not steal any tools or equipment and that his friend is dead over whatever small amount they found in Harley's pockets.
While neighbors told News4Jax the wooded block around Firestone Road and Morse Avenue is quiet, there was an armed robbery reported at the address of that cellphone tower two nights before the shooting.
News4Jax crime and safety expert Ken Jefferson said there is a strong possibility the two incidents are related.
“You hate to hear and see the sort of thing happen - not just in our city, but anywhere,” Jefferson said. “You’ve got two males working on their job just trying to make a living for their families and you come across this sort of thing. It turns your stomach.”
Harley is survived by a wife and five children. A GoFundMe created to help his family raised $17,000 in two days.
Editor’s Note: Phillip Harley of Thomaston was one of two men shot and killed while working in Jacksonville, Fla. last week. Following is a story by Maggie Lorenz that appeared on the News4JAX website:
After two men were shot and killed while working on a cellphone tower on Jacksonville’s Westside, a coworker is now saying he has always worried something like this could happen on the job.
Phillip Harley, 37, was one of the two men shot Thursday at the tower off Firestone Road and Morse Avenue. As telecommunication technicians, Harley and his colleague traveled from Thomaston to work in Jacksonville last week.
An officer at the scene Thursday said it was unclear if the shooting was part of a robbery.
Both victims were found just after 6 a.m. inside a small building at the base of the tower. Each had been shot multiple times in the early morning hours.
Guy Robinson called Harley his best friend.
Robinson and Harley had been working together as telecommunication technicians for years. Their work involves being subcontracted by network providers, such as AT&T, to upgrade wireless network equipment across the Southeast.
Robinson said he has always fretted over something like Thursday’s tragedy. And he never imagined it would happen to his best friend, a father of five.
“We lost a great man,” Robinson said. “(He was) just working to feed his family, and this is how he gets repaid.”
Robinson immediately drove to Jacksonville when he heard his best friend had been killed. He was the one to pick up their shared tools and equipment and retrieve their box truck from the crime scene.
“I had to go be with the detectives and everything on that,” Robinson said. “I’m really at a loss for words, to be honest with you.”
Harley and his coworker got to the Firestone Road tower about 10 p.m. Wednesday, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Their bodies were found the next morning. Police are piecing together what happened in the hours between.
Robinson said overnight hours on tower sites are inherently dangerous due to low visibility and poor security.
“Sometimes you can close the gate and lock it, but even if you do close the gate and lock it, they can easily get in,” Robinson said. “And if you’re shut in the shelter, there’s no windows or anything, so you can’t see out.”
He said sometimes they cannot even close site gates, because some perimeters are too small to fit their utility truck.
Robinson said, to his knowledge, whoever did this did not steal any tools or equipment and that his friend is dead over whatever small amount they found in Harley's pockets.
While neighbors told News4Jax the wooded block around Firestone Road and Morse Avenue is quiet, there was an armed robbery reported at the address of that cellphone tower two nights before the shooting.
News4Jax crime and safety expert Ken Jefferson said there is a strong possibility the two incidents are related.
“You hate to hear and see the sort of thing happen - not just in our city, but anywhere,” Jefferson said. “You’ve got two males working on their job just trying to make a living for their families and you come across this sort of thing. It turns your stomach.”
Harley is survived by a wife and five children. A GoFundMe created to help his family raised $17,000 in two days.
Standoff Ends with Gunman Shooting Himself
Photo by Luke Haney
Published 6-18-2020
By Bridge Turner
A standoff involving Thomaston Police officers and Upson County Sheriff’s deputies ended Monday when gunman James Redd, Jr. shot himself in the head, according to a statement from TPD Chief Mike Richardson.
Redd was listed as stable, but in critical condition Tuesday morning, after being airlifted to a Columbus trauma center Monday night, Richardson said. No local officers were injured in the conflict.
TPD responded to a disturbance call involving an armed man at 201 Springdale Drive minutes before 7 p.m., the second call received that day concerning Redd’s behavior. When the first officer arrived, shots were fired from the back of the residence, prompting a request for additional units.
Redd was ordered multiple times to drop his handgun, but refused and retreated to the back yard of the residence. Officers were able to safely remove Redd’s parents from the home and establish a perimeter around the property, the report stated.
The standoff continued for approximately 30 minutes, during which officers and deputies repeatedly asked Redd to relinquish his weapon, but he fired additional shots and continued to point the handgun at law enforcement. Officers tried to disarm him by firing “less than lethal” pepper ball and foam rubber rounds, and one officer discharged his service weapon missing Redd, according to Richardson.
Eventually, a less than lethal round drove Redd to the ground, at which time he raised the gun to his head and attempted to fire it twice. The weapon misfired on each attempt, but as officers approached and urged Redd to drop the gun, he shot himself in the right side of his head, the report stated.
Officers immediately secured the weapon and began providing first aid and CPR until EMS, staged nearby, took control and transported Redd to be airlifted, Richardson said.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation was notified immediately and asked to investigate the incident. The investigation is ongoing.
By Bridge Turner
A standoff involving Thomaston Police officers and Upson County Sheriff’s deputies ended Monday when gunman James Redd, Jr. shot himself in the head, according to a statement from TPD Chief Mike Richardson.
Redd was listed as stable, but in critical condition Tuesday morning, after being airlifted to a Columbus trauma center Monday night, Richardson said. No local officers were injured in the conflict.
TPD responded to a disturbance call involving an armed man at 201 Springdale Drive minutes before 7 p.m., the second call received that day concerning Redd’s behavior. When the first officer arrived, shots were fired from the back of the residence, prompting a request for additional units.
Redd was ordered multiple times to drop his handgun, but refused and retreated to the back yard of the residence. Officers were able to safely remove Redd’s parents from the home and establish a perimeter around the property, the report stated.
The standoff continued for approximately 30 minutes, during which officers and deputies repeatedly asked Redd to relinquish his weapon, but he fired additional shots and continued to point the handgun at law enforcement. Officers tried to disarm him by firing “less than lethal” pepper ball and foam rubber rounds, and one officer discharged his service weapon missing Redd, according to Richardson.
Eventually, a less than lethal round drove Redd to the ground, at which time he raised the gun to his head and attempted to fire it twice. The weapon misfired on each attempt, but as officers approached and urged Redd to drop the gun, he shot himself in the right side of his head, the report stated.
Officers immediately secured the weapon and began providing first aid and CPR until EMS, staged nearby, took control and transported Redd to be airlifted, Richardson said.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation was notified immediately and asked to investigate the incident. The investigation is ongoing.
Camp Takes Lamar County to Top Coggins
Published 6-18-2020
After late tabulation of ballots from Lamar County last week, Beth Camp of Pike County edged Thomaston’s Kenny Coggins by less than 300 votes to secure the Republican ticket for the District 131 seat in Georgia’s House of Representatives.
Coggins had a single-digit lead after votes were counted in Upson and Pike, and Lamar suspended its process at 3:30 a.m. last Wednesday because of “damaged absentee ballots” and equipment glitches, according to reports. When the count resumed, Camp prevailed with a total of 5,366 votes (51.4 percent) to Coggins’ 5,077 (48.6 percent).
Coggins received the most absentee votes with 3,653 to Camp’s 3,363, but an election day voting surge of 1,998 to 1,424 put Camp over the top. There also were five “provisional votes” cast for Camp.
Camp will face unopposed Democrat candidate Chris Benton of Thomaston in the November General Election.
After late tabulation of ballots from Lamar County last week, Beth Camp of Pike County edged Thomaston’s Kenny Coggins by less than 300 votes to secure the Republican ticket for the District 131 seat in Georgia’s House of Representatives.
Coggins had a single-digit lead after votes were counted in Upson and Pike, and Lamar suspended its process at 3:30 a.m. last Wednesday because of “damaged absentee ballots” and equipment glitches, according to reports. When the count resumed, Camp prevailed with a total of 5,366 votes (51.4 percent) to Coggins’ 5,077 (48.6 percent).
Coggins received the most absentee votes with 3,653 to Camp’s 3,363, but an election day voting surge of 1,998 to 1,424 put Camp over the top. There also were five “provisional votes” cast for Camp.
Camp will face unopposed Democrat candidate Chris Benton of Thomaston in the November General Election.
County Moving Forward With Phase II Paving
Employee Insurance Renewal Pending
Published 6-18-2020
By Bridge Turner
Commissioners voted last week to move forward with Phase II of Upson County’s resurfacing project, committing more than $5.5 million in special purpose local option sales tax and state grant funding to improvement of local roadways.
A local maintenance and improvement grant through the Georgia Department of Transportation was approved earlier this year for the widening and paving of Pickard Road in western Upson. The county’s SPLOST revenue will be used to complete the remainder of the project, details of which are being finalized by commissioners and staff.
Portions of Burkett Road, Indian Trail, Roland Road, Thompson Road, Willis Road, West Moore’s Crossing Road, Baker Britt Road, Mount Carmel Road, Jeff Davis Road, Cobbtown Road, Franklindale Road, Knight Trail and Sprewell Bluff Road, among others, are included in Phase II.
Phase I was recently completed under budget, according to engineers.
The commission heard presentations from Scott Boatright of McGriff Insurance Services and a representative of Association of County Commissioners of Georgia Insurance regarding county employee coverage, which is approaching renewal.
The county’s current carrier, Travelers Insurance, brokered through McGriff, has submitted an approximate five percent increase for renewal of the policy. Boatright attributed the bulk of the increase to workers’ compensation, but reminded commissioners that Travelers is “staring at a $750,000 payout” for fire damage at the county workshop.
“I think Travelers has done an outstanding job keeping it down, considering the circumstances,” Boatright said. “If you look at claims, the carrier has yet to make a profit. The county had a couple of tough years in 2018 and 2019.”
The county is approaching its fourth year with the company.
“The level of service we’ve received exceeds my expectations,” County Manager Jason Tinsley said of McGriff. “The ACCG quote is $25,000 to $30,000 less annually, and coverage is specifically catered to county governments. They also deal a lot with law enforcement and related claims.”
Tinsley said county staff will provide a detailed side-by-side comparison of the two quotes for commissioners to consider at the June 23 meeting.
By Bridge Turner
Commissioners voted last week to move forward with Phase II of Upson County’s resurfacing project, committing more than $5.5 million in special purpose local option sales tax and state grant funding to improvement of local roadways.
A local maintenance and improvement grant through the Georgia Department of Transportation was approved earlier this year for the widening and paving of Pickard Road in western Upson. The county’s SPLOST revenue will be used to complete the remainder of the project, details of which are being finalized by commissioners and staff.
Portions of Burkett Road, Indian Trail, Roland Road, Thompson Road, Willis Road, West Moore’s Crossing Road, Baker Britt Road, Mount Carmel Road, Jeff Davis Road, Cobbtown Road, Franklindale Road, Knight Trail and Sprewell Bluff Road, among others, are included in Phase II.
Phase I was recently completed under budget, according to engineers.
The commission heard presentations from Scott Boatright of McGriff Insurance Services and a representative of Association of County Commissioners of Georgia Insurance regarding county employee coverage, which is approaching renewal.
The county’s current carrier, Travelers Insurance, brokered through McGriff, has submitted an approximate five percent increase for renewal of the policy. Boatright attributed the bulk of the increase to workers’ compensation, but reminded commissioners that Travelers is “staring at a $750,000 payout” for fire damage at the county workshop.
“I think Travelers has done an outstanding job keeping it down, considering the circumstances,” Boatright said. “If you look at claims, the carrier has yet to make a profit. The county had a couple of tough years in 2018 and 2019.”
The county is approaching its fourth year with the company.
“The level of service we’ve received exceeds my expectations,” County Manager Jason Tinsley said of McGriff. “The ACCG quote is $25,000 to $30,000 less annually, and coverage is specifically catered to county governments. They also deal a lot with law enforcement and related claims.”
Tinsley said county staff will provide a detailed side-by-side comparison of the two quotes for commissioners to consider at the June 23 meeting.
Upson Coronavirus Update
Published 6-18-2020
Upson County reported 295 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 40 deaths and 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of seven from the 290 confirmed cases, an increase of five deaths, and an increase of one from 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate is 112.3 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 1.9 from 110.4 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia grew to 58,414 cases (5,917 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 4,598) as of noon Tuesday, with 9,322 hospitalized (up 576/prior week’s increase was 444) and 2,494 deaths (up 286/prior week’s increase was 119).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 131 (47.2 per 10k) and 14 deaths, 26 hospitalized; Meriwether with 127 (60.4 per 10k) and three deaths, 19 hospitalized; Lamar, 79 (40.8 per 10k) and five deaths, 12 hospitalized; Pike, 70 (37.1 per 10k) with three deaths and 11 hospitalized; Talbot, 47 (76.3 per 10k) with two deaths and 13 hospitalized; Crawford, 32 (26.2 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 26 (32.7 per 10k) with two deaths and 10 hospitalized.
Total local number of positive cases among residents and staff at long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased three from 153 to 156 during the same one-week period, with no new resident deaths totaling 31, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (96 residents) with 35 resident cases (up three), 31 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (up one). Providence (76 residents) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 46 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside has reported only one positive case, which was among staff.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 295 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 40 deaths and 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of seven from the 290 confirmed cases, an increase of five deaths, and an increase of one from 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate is 112.3 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 1.9 from 110.4 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia grew to 58,414 cases (5,917 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 4,598) as of noon Tuesday, with 9,322 hospitalized (up 576/prior week’s increase was 444) and 2,494 deaths (up 286/prior week’s increase was 119).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 131 (47.2 per 10k) and 14 deaths, 26 hospitalized; Meriwether with 127 (60.4 per 10k) and three deaths, 19 hospitalized; Lamar, 79 (40.8 per 10k) and five deaths, 12 hospitalized; Pike, 70 (37.1 per 10k) with three deaths and 11 hospitalized; Talbot, 47 (76.3 per 10k) with two deaths and 13 hospitalized; Crawford, 32 (26.2 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 26 (32.7 per 10k) with two deaths and 10 hospitalized.
Total local number of positive cases among residents and staff at long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased three from 153 to 156 during the same one-week period, with no new resident deaths totaling 31, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (96 residents) with 35 resident cases (up three), 31 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (up one). Providence (76 residents) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 46 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside has reported only one positive case, which was among staff.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Allen, Hall, Roberts Prevail
Lamar County Glitch Delays State House District 131 Decision
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Published 6-11-2020
Incumbent County Commission Chairman Norman Allen garnered more than 58 percent of the overall votes (2,797) in Upson to win the Republican ticket Tuesday, topping challenger Dr. Rex King, who tallied just under 42 percent (2,007) of the total ballots cast.
Allen will face opposition in the November General Election from Dehundra Caldwell, who ran unopposed on the local Democrat Party ticket.
Kenny Coggins of Thomaston posted a convincing Republican victory over Pike’s Beth Camp in Upson County, earning almost 69 percent (3,305) of the local vote to Camp’s 31 percent (1,507) for District 131 Georgia House of Representatives. But Camp answered in her home county with a 3,166 to 1,373 nod to trim Coggins’ unofficial lead to only five votes with Lamar County pending.
Barnesville.com website reported that the Lamar vote count was suspended at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday for various reasons, including damaged absentee ballots which remained to be replicated for scanning. The process was scheduled to resume Wednesday afternoon, according to election officials.
New vote tabulation equipment received negative criticism from multiple media outlets.
The winner between Coggins and Camp will face unopposed Democrat candidate Chris Benton in the General Election.
Incumbent Sheila Hall retained her Thomaston-Upson Board of Education District 3 seat with more than 55 percent of the votes cast (550), turning away challenger Michael Stewart with slightly under 45 percent (445 votes).
Challenger Scott Roberts upended incumbent Leon Fowler for the TU BOE District 5 seat with 52.8 percent of votes cast (697) to Fowler’s 47.2 percent (624 votes). Fowler has served as a member of the local school board for more than 30 years.
BOE District 1 incumbent Angeline McGill and District 7 incumbent Jaye Eubanks ran unopposed, receiving 383 and 1,024 votes, respectively.
Other unopposed county positions include Teresa Harper, clerk of Superior Court; Dan Kilgore, sheriff; Andy Chastain, tax commissioner; James Ellington, commissioner District 2; Danielle McRae, judge of Probate Court; and Jan Streetman, chief magistrate.
District 1 Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder ran unopposed on the Democrat ticket, and will face Republican Christopher Biggs in the General Election; while Republican coroner James George will square off against Democrat challenger Jerry Meadows in November.
All results are unofficial until certified by Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.
Incumbent County Commission Chairman Norman Allen garnered more than 58 percent of the overall votes (2,797) in Upson to win the Republican ticket Tuesday, topping challenger Dr. Rex King, who tallied just under 42 percent (2,007) of the total ballots cast.
Allen will face opposition in the November General Election from Dehundra Caldwell, who ran unopposed on the local Democrat Party ticket.
Kenny Coggins of Thomaston posted a convincing Republican victory over Pike’s Beth Camp in Upson County, earning almost 69 percent (3,305) of the local vote to Camp’s 31 percent (1,507) for District 131 Georgia House of Representatives. But Camp answered in her home county with a 3,166 to 1,373 nod to trim Coggins’ unofficial lead to only five votes with Lamar County pending.
Barnesville.com website reported that the Lamar vote count was suspended at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday for various reasons, including damaged absentee ballots which remained to be replicated for scanning. The process was scheduled to resume Wednesday afternoon, according to election officials.
New vote tabulation equipment received negative criticism from multiple media outlets.
The winner between Coggins and Camp will face unopposed Democrat candidate Chris Benton in the General Election.
Incumbent Sheila Hall retained her Thomaston-Upson Board of Education District 3 seat with more than 55 percent of the votes cast (550), turning away challenger Michael Stewart with slightly under 45 percent (445 votes).
Challenger Scott Roberts upended incumbent Leon Fowler for the TU BOE District 5 seat with 52.8 percent of votes cast (697) to Fowler’s 47.2 percent (624 votes). Fowler has served as a member of the local school board for more than 30 years.
BOE District 1 incumbent Angeline McGill and District 7 incumbent Jaye Eubanks ran unopposed, receiving 383 and 1,024 votes, respectively.
Other unopposed county positions include Teresa Harper, clerk of Superior Court; Dan Kilgore, sheriff; Andy Chastain, tax commissioner; James Ellington, commissioner District 2; Danielle McRae, judge of Probate Court; and Jan Streetman, chief magistrate.
District 1 Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder ran unopposed on the Democrat ticket, and will face Republican Christopher Biggs in the General Election; while Republican coroner James George will square off against Democrat challenger Jerry Meadows in November.
All results are unofficial until certified by Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.
URMC Receives Drug Remdesivir To Treat COVID
Published 6-11-2020
The Georgia Department of Public Health recently distributed 120 vials of the drug remdesivir to Upson Regional Medical Center. URMC is one of 85 hospitals in Georgia that will receive the drug.
Remdesivir is an investigational antiviral medication that is given intravenously. Since there are no Food and Drug Administration approved medications available to treat COVID-19, the FDA recently authorized the use of remdesivir under the Emergency Use Authorization Act. The EUA declares that circumstances exist to justify the emergency use of remedesivir for COVID-19 treatment in hospitalized patients. Research will continue to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this investigational drug while the EUA is in effect.
“Based on the 120 vials we have received, 10 to 20 patients can benefit from remdesivir,” stated Heather Jordan, Pharm.D., director of pharmacy at URMC. “Remdesivir has shown to shorten the time to recovery in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, according to preliminary studies. We are excited that our patients will have access to this new therapy, where appropriate, and its promising results.”
For more information on remdesivir, visit https://www.gilead.com/purpose/advancing-global-health/covid-19/about-remdesivir. For more information about COVID-19, visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus2019-ncov/index.html.
The Georgia Department of Public Health recently distributed 120 vials of the drug remdesivir to Upson Regional Medical Center. URMC is one of 85 hospitals in Georgia that will receive the drug.
Remdesivir is an investigational antiviral medication that is given intravenously. Since there are no Food and Drug Administration approved medications available to treat COVID-19, the FDA recently authorized the use of remdesivir under the Emergency Use Authorization Act. The EUA declares that circumstances exist to justify the emergency use of remedesivir for COVID-19 treatment in hospitalized patients. Research will continue to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this investigational drug while the EUA is in effect.
“Based on the 120 vials we have received, 10 to 20 patients can benefit from remdesivir,” stated Heather Jordan, Pharm.D., director of pharmacy at URMC. “Remdesivir has shown to shorten the time to recovery in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, according to preliminary studies. We are excited that our patients will have access to this new therapy, where appropriate, and its promising results.”
For more information on remdesivir, visit https://www.gilead.com/purpose/advancing-global-health/covid-19/about-remdesivir. For more information about COVID-19, visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus2019-ncov/index.html.
Interim No More: Marie Broder Officially DA For Griffin Circuit
Gov. Brian P. Kemp swore Marie Greene Broder into the office of
Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney last week with her daughter
Margrit and husband Karl by her side.
Published 6-11-2020
Gov. Brian P. Kemp swore Marie Greene Broder into the office of Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney last week, officially marking the first female to serve as DA for the circuit.
Gov. Kemp announced Broder’s appointment in February, and she has been serving as “acting” district attorney until today.
"I am very honored to appoint you to be the next district attorney,” Kemp said at the oath ceremony. “I have heard great things from your local community of the work you have done. I appreciate all you have done to serve as the district attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit.”
Broder earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia and law degree from University of Georgia College of Law. She has served as an assistant district attorney and chief assistant district attorney.
“This circuit is my home and my hometown. I am honored and humbled to serve,” Broder said after the ceremony. “My heartfelt thanks to Governor Kemp for this opportunity. I will work diligently to make sure that the Griffin Judicial Circuit remains a safe and wonderful place to live.”
Gov. Brian P. Kemp swore Marie Greene Broder into the office of Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney last week, officially marking the first female to serve as DA for the circuit.
Gov. Kemp announced Broder’s appointment in February, and she has been serving as “acting” district attorney until today.
"I am very honored to appoint you to be the next district attorney,” Kemp said at the oath ceremony. “I have heard great things from your local community of the work you have done. I appreciate all you have done to serve as the district attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit.”
Broder earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia and law degree from University of Georgia College of Law. She has served as an assistant district attorney and chief assistant district attorney.
“This circuit is my home and my hometown. I am honored and humbled to serve,” Broder said after the ceremony. “My heartfelt thanks to Governor Kemp for this opportunity. I will work diligently to make sure that the Griffin Judicial Circuit remains a safe and wonderful place to live.”
Judge Ben Miller Jr. Sworn Into Office
Gov. Brian P. Kemp swore Judge Benjamin Miller Jr. into office as the fifth Superior Court judge on the Griffin Judicial Circuit in Georgia. Miller is pictured with his hand over The Bible, held by his wife Mandy Miller.
Published 6-11-2020
Ben Miller, Jr. of Upson County was sworn in recently as a Superior Court judge in the Griffin Judicial Circuit, filling the judicial vacancy created by the resignation of Mack Crawford.
“In a competitive selection process, Ben clearly stood out among the candidates, and I am honored to appoint him to serve on the court,” Gov. Brian Kemp said. “He has the right credentials, temperament, and willingness to serve, and I know that he will excel as a member of the judiciary.”
Miller earned a bachelor’s degree from North Georgia College and a law degree from John Marshall Law School. He has served as an attorney, solicitor, juvenile court judge pro tempore, municipal court judge, associate juvenile court judge and most recently was presiding judge of Spalding County Juvenile Court.
He and his family continue to reside in Thomaston.
Ben Miller, Jr. of Upson County was sworn in recently as a Superior Court judge in the Griffin Judicial Circuit, filling the judicial vacancy created by the resignation of Mack Crawford.
“In a competitive selection process, Ben clearly stood out among the candidates, and I am honored to appoint him to serve on the court,” Gov. Brian Kemp said. “He has the right credentials, temperament, and willingness to serve, and I know that he will excel as a member of the judiciary.”
Miller earned a bachelor’s degree from North Georgia College and a law degree from John Marshall Law School. He has served as an attorney, solicitor, juvenile court judge pro tempore, municipal court judge, associate juvenile court judge and most recently was presiding judge of Spalding County Juvenile Court.
He and his family continue to reside in Thomaston.
Officer Resigns After Mask Photo Circulates on Social Media
Concerned Citizens Speak at Park Meeting
Concerned Citizens created signs with MLK Jr. and Malcom X Quotes.
Published 6-4-2020
By Luke Haney
Former Thomaston Police Officer Walter Navarro was asked to resign or be terminated following a viral image of Navarro wearing a black facial cleansing mask with the caption “’I date a black man’” circulating social media outlet Facebook.
During his meeting with TPD Chief Mike Richardson, Navarro explained that he took the photo wearing the face mask during the first week of May. He shared it privately with a group of friends on the social media platform “Snapchat” and thought no more about the photograph, according to a statement released by Richardson.
Navarro claims that his girlfriend, who was also in the picture, added the caption. After sharing a post on Facebook condemning the actions of the officer in Minneapolis regarding the death of George Floyd, Navarro discovered that someone had posted the image of him to his Facebook feed and Navarro immediately notified his supervisor about the post.
A group of concerns citizens gathered at Greatest Generation Memorial Park Friday evening to speak on the issue. The group created signs with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X quotes to demonstrate the pain that his image caused in the community.
Rhondalynn Traylor, member of Thomaston Improvement Association, said, “He bothered not only blacks, it bothered whites, bi-racials, Mexicans, it bothered a lot… people are hurting by actions of law enforcement, and for that to be here is very hurtful.”
Traylor also expressed concerns that more can be done to prevent these types of incidents.
“Right now, we need the police department to have some diverse training, some diversity training, and this needs to be on a more frequent basis,” she said. “We have a very young police department and, with that being said, the younger generation are so into the social media, but they need to realize that some consequences come behind it. It’s hurtful but we want to work through it.”
Other participants voiced that Richardson should have been at the park to meet with the citizens, although Richardson said that he was unable to attend due to a prior engagement.
“Whatever obligation he had, it wasn’t that important. I promise you,” commented one concerned citizen. “It’s not important when you have actual people who are here, who are telling you, ‘We are hurt, this is how we feel’.”
Another woman stated, “At the end of the day, the apology needs to be just as loud as the disrespect and the humiliation. How can we ask these babies to feel comfortable when we have an officer blatantly on social media making fun of their heritage? Disrespecting what they are, a part of them. I don’t understand how everyone, black and white, is not outraged right now. Easily, Thomaston can turn into a Minneapolis. So when things get rough and people start acting on pure emotion, where are you now, Chief Richardson? …He just doesn’t want to face us.”
After reviewing the situation, Richardson stated, “We decided that posting and disseminating a photograph of this nature on social media, regardless of the original intent, is unacceptable behavior and demonstrates a serious lack in judgement on behalf of a Thomaston Police Officer. Officer Navarro was asked to resign or be terminated, at which time he tendered his resignation. It’s an unfortunate situation that has breached the trust of the community and affects the professionalism of the department that we cannot and will not allow at the Thomaston Police Department.”
“Officer Navarro is a Latino American police officer who made an extremely poor decision that had serious consequences,” Richardson continued. “He served the department well and during his two years on the job had never received a single complaint regarding conduct, rudeness, racial bias, or unprofessional behavior or the mistreatment of others of any nature. Regardless, in the end, we serve the public and if the public trust is broken, I have the responsibility to fix it. We cannot do our job effectively without the support and confidence of the community we serve. I hope that all young and old officers can learn from this situation and fully understand that their actions on or off duty, regardless of intent, can have a tremendous effect on the community and people they serve.”
By Luke Haney
Former Thomaston Police Officer Walter Navarro was asked to resign or be terminated following a viral image of Navarro wearing a black facial cleansing mask with the caption “’I date a black man’” circulating social media outlet Facebook.
During his meeting with TPD Chief Mike Richardson, Navarro explained that he took the photo wearing the face mask during the first week of May. He shared it privately with a group of friends on the social media platform “Snapchat” and thought no more about the photograph, according to a statement released by Richardson.
Navarro claims that his girlfriend, who was also in the picture, added the caption. After sharing a post on Facebook condemning the actions of the officer in Minneapolis regarding the death of George Floyd, Navarro discovered that someone had posted the image of him to his Facebook feed and Navarro immediately notified his supervisor about the post.
A group of concerns citizens gathered at Greatest Generation Memorial Park Friday evening to speak on the issue. The group created signs with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X quotes to demonstrate the pain that his image caused in the community.
Rhondalynn Traylor, member of Thomaston Improvement Association, said, “He bothered not only blacks, it bothered whites, bi-racials, Mexicans, it bothered a lot… people are hurting by actions of law enforcement, and for that to be here is very hurtful.”
Traylor also expressed concerns that more can be done to prevent these types of incidents.
“Right now, we need the police department to have some diverse training, some diversity training, and this needs to be on a more frequent basis,” she said. “We have a very young police department and, with that being said, the younger generation are so into the social media, but they need to realize that some consequences come behind it. It’s hurtful but we want to work through it.”
Other participants voiced that Richardson should have been at the park to meet with the citizens, although Richardson said that he was unable to attend due to a prior engagement.
“Whatever obligation he had, it wasn’t that important. I promise you,” commented one concerned citizen. “It’s not important when you have actual people who are here, who are telling you, ‘We are hurt, this is how we feel’.”
Another woman stated, “At the end of the day, the apology needs to be just as loud as the disrespect and the humiliation. How can we ask these babies to feel comfortable when we have an officer blatantly on social media making fun of their heritage? Disrespecting what they are, a part of them. I don’t understand how everyone, black and white, is not outraged right now. Easily, Thomaston can turn into a Minneapolis. So when things get rough and people start acting on pure emotion, where are you now, Chief Richardson? …He just doesn’t want to face us.”
After reviewing the situation, Richardson stated, “We decided that posting and disseminating a photograph of this nature on social media, regardless of the original intent, is unacceptable behavior and demonstrates a serious lack in judgement on behalf of a Thomaston Police Officer. Officer Navarro was asked to resign or be terminated, at which time he tendered his resignation. It’s an unfortunate situation that has breached the trust of the community and affects the professionalism of the department that we cannot and will not allow at the Thomaston Police Department.”
“Officer Navarro is a Latino American police officer who made an extremely poor decision that had serious consequences,” Richardson continued. “He served the department well and during his two years on the job had never received a single complaint regarding conduct, rudeness, racial bias, or unprofessional behavior or the mistreatment of others of any nature. Regardless, in the end, we serve the public and if the public trust is broken, I have the responsibility to fix it. We cannot do our job effectively without the support and confidence of the community we serve. I hope that all young and old officers can learn from this situation and fully understand that their actions on or off duty, regardless of intent, can have a tremendous effect on the community and people they serve.”
DA Warns: Shootings Will Be Prosecuted
Published 6-4-2020
By Bridge Turner
In the aftermath of multiple shootings which resulted in numerous injuries and one death, acting District Attorney Marie Broder warned that such actions will not be tolerated in the Griffin Judicial Circuit, and particularly not in Upson County.
“In Thomaston in recent weeks, we have seen an uptick in shootings. These shootings occurred after verbal altercations,” Broder said. “Let me be clear, it is NOT acceptable to shoot another human being because of a verbal fight. These acts will be prosecuted by my office.”
Georgia law states that “a person is justified in using force which is intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm only if he or she reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent death or great bodily injury to himself or herself or a third person, or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony.” (OCGA 16-13-21)
“It is time for these senseless shootings to stop,” Broder stated. “This is not the Wild, Wild West. This is our home, our community, our neighbors. It’s time to stop the violence.”
The Upson Beacon reported a shooting last week which left one man dead and two women injured, resulting in a murder charge, and a second incident which required the victim to be life-flighted and the shooter charged with aggravated assault. A third incident involving discharge of a weapon in the parking lot of Waffle House did not result in injury, and was not reported.
A harsher stance taken by Broder and Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson against gun violence has resulted in additional charges stemming from the Waffle House incident.
Added to the initial misdemeanor charge of reckless conduct, Erica Butler of Wesley Avenue in Thomaston now faces two counts of simple assault, discharge of a firearm on or near a public highway, discharge of a firearm on property of another, possession of a firearm without a permit, and obstruction, according to TPD reports.
Butler, 32, allegedly fired a handgun into the air twice during a verbal argument in Waffle House parking lot amid multiple bystanders shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday, May 24. She left the scene in a Jeep Wrangler driven by Yulanduras Terry, and the vehicle was stopped by an Upson County Sheriff’s deputy traveling south on Highway 19, the report stated.
Details were confirmed by witnesses, and law enforcement found two loaded handguns inside the vehicle.
“After further investigation, Erica Butler has been charged with multiple weapons charges, two counts of simple assault and other criminal acts in connection to her discharging a weapon in the Waffle House parking lot during an argument on Memorial Day weekend,” Chief Richardson said. “The police department and citizens of Thomaston will not stand by while a handful of individuals choose to disregard the safety and peacefulness of our community. Firing a weapon in the air during the course of an argument is reckless and behavior that we will not allow in our city.”
Terry, 33, of Gordon School Road, has been arrested and charged with obstruction or hindering of an officer for her role in the incident, according to the TPD report.
“It should also be clear that anyone who assists offenders or obstructs the police department from investigating such reckless acts will also be arrested and prosecuted,” Richardson emphasized. “Ms. Terry fled the scene with the offender knowing she had committed a crime, hindering the police department’s investigation into the incident.”
By Bridge Turner
In the aftermath of multiple shootings which resulted in numerous injuries and one death, acting District Attorney Marie Broder warned that such actions will not be tolerated in the Griffin Judicial Circuit, and particularly not in Upson County.
“In Thomaston in recent weeks, we have seen an uptick in shootings. These shootings occurred after verbal altercations,” Broder said. “Let me be clear, it is NOT acceptable to shoot another human being because of a verbal fight. These acts will be prosecuted by my office.”
Georgia law states that “a person is justified in using force which is intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm only if he or she reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent death or great bodily injury to himself or herself or a third person, or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony.” (OCGA 16-13-21)
“It is time for these senseless shootings to stop,” Broder stated. “This is not the Wild, Wild West. This is our home, our community, our neighbors. It’s time to stop the violence.”
The Upson Beacon reported a shooting last week which left one man dead and two women injured, resulting in a murder charge, and a second incident which required the victim to be life-flighted and the shooter charged with aggravated assault. A third incident involving discharge of a weapon in the parking lot of Waffle House did not result in injury, and was not reported.
A harsher stance taken by Broder and Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson against gun violence has resulted in additional charges stemming from the Waffle House incident.
Added to the initial misdemeanor charge of reckless conduct, Erica Butler of Wesley Avenue in Thomaston now faces two counts of simple assault, discharge of a firearm on or near a public highway, discharge of a firearm on property of another, possession of a firearm without a permit, and obstruction, according to TPD reports.
Butler, 32, allegedly fired a handgun into the air twice during a verbal argument in Waffle House parking lot amid multiple bystanders shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday, May 24. She left the scene in a Jeep Wrangler driven by Yulanduras Terry, and the vehicle was stopped by an Upson County Sheriff’s deputy traveling south on Highway 19, the report stated.
Details were confirmed by witnesses, and law enforcement found two loaded handguns inside the vehicle.
“After further investigation, Erica Butler has been charged with multiple weapons charges, two counts of simple assault and other criminal acts in connection to her discharging a weapon in the Waffle House parking lot during an argument on Memorial Day weekend,” Chief Richardson said. “The police department and citizens of Thomaston will not stand by while a handful of individuals choose to disregard the safety and peacefulness of our community. Firing a weapon in the air during the course of an argument is reckless and behavior that we will not allow in our city.”
Terry, 33, of Gordon School Road, has been arrested and charged with obstruction or hindering of an officer for her role in the incident, according to the TPD report.
“It should also be clear that anyone who assists offenders or obstructs the police department from investigating such reckless acts will also be arrested and prosecuted,” Richardson emphasized. “Ms. Terry fled the scene with the offender knowing she had committed a crime, hindering the police department’s investigation into the incident.”
COVID-19 Update
Published 6-4-2020
Upson County reported 283 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 34 deaths and 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of eight from the 275 confirmed cases, an increase of one death, and increase of four from 39 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate is 107.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 3.0 from 104.7 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia grew to 47,899 cases (4,313 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 4,962) as of noon Tuesday, with 8,302 hospitalized (up 791/prior week’s increase was 509) and 2,089 deaths (up 236/prior week’s increase was 204).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 121 (43.6 per 10k) and 11 deaths, 24 hospitalized; Meriwether with 86 (40.9 per 10k) and two deaths, 13 hospitalized; Lamar, 71 (36.7 per 10k) and two deaths, 11 hospitalized; Pike, 54 (28.6 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 39 (63.3 per 10k) with two deaths and 13 hospitalized; Crawford, 28 (22.9 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 22 (27.6 per 10k) with two deaths and nine hospitalized,
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased by one from 149 to 150 during the same one-week period, with one new resident death totaling 31, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (90 residents) with 31 resident cases (up one/34.4 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (up one). Providence (75 residents) reports 63 resident cases (no increase/84 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 283 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 34 deaths and 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of eight from the 275 confirmed cases, an increase of one death, and increase of four from 39 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate is 107.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 3.0 from 104.7 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia grew to 47,899 cases (4,313 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 4,962) as of noon Tuesday, with 8,302 hospitalized (up 791/prior week’s increase was 509) and 2,089 deaths (up 236/prior week’s increase was 204).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 121 (43.6 per 10k) and 11 deaths, 24 hospitalized; Meriwether with 86 (40.9 per 10k) and two deaths, 13 hospitalized; Lamar, 71 (36.7 per 10k) and two deaths, 11 hospitalized; Pike, 54 (28.6 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 39 (63.3 per 10k) with two deaths and 13 hospitalized; Crawford, 28 (22.9 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 22 (27.6 per 10k) with two deaths and nine hospitalized,
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased by one from 149 to 150 during the same one-week period, with one new resident death totaling 31, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (90 residents) with 31 resident cases (up one/34.4 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (up one). Providence (75 residents) reports 63 resident cases (no increase/84 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Shooting Leaves Man Dead, Two Women Injured
Corey Thomas Charged with Murder
Published 5-28-2020
Corey Thomas of 6th Avenue in Thomaston has been charged with malice murder and two counts of aggravated assault following a shooting which resulted in the death of a local man and gunshot wounds to two local women, according to information from the Thomaston Police Department.
Officers responded to reports of a shooting Saturday and found Joseph Homman of Thomaston lying in the front yard of 205 6th Avenue with an apparent gunshot wound to the chest. TPD officers and a deputy with the Upson County Sheriff’s Office rendered aid, but Homman later was pronounced dead at Upson Regional Medical Center.
One female victim, Carrie Marrero of Thomaston, was treated at the scene by emergency medical services for a gunshot wound to the leg and transferred to URMC. A third victim, Katie Howington, arrived by car at the URMC emergency room with a gunshot wound to the arm.
Preliminary investigation determined that an altercation among three men – victim Homman, resident Thomas, and Codey Piper – escalated during a party at the residence. Thomas displayed a weapon and fired several rounds, striking all three victims and causing the death of Homman. Alcohol was involved, according to the report.
After further investigation, Piper was released with no charges.
Thomas also was charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. He is being held at the Upson County Jail with additional charges pending, the report concluded.
Corey Thomas of 6th Avenue in Thomaston has been charged with malice murder and two counts of aggravated assault following a shooting which resulted in the death of a local man and gunshot wounds to two local women, according to information from the Thomaston Police Department.
Officers responded to reports of a shooting Saturday and found Joseph Homman of Thomaston lying in the front yard of 205 6th Avenue with an apparent gunshot wound to the chest. TPD officers and a deputy with the Upson County Sheriff’s Office rendered aid, but Homman later was pronounced dead at Upson Regional Medical Center.
One female victim, Carrie Marrero of Thomaston, was treated at the scene by emergency medical services for a gunshot wound to the leg and transferred to URMC. A third victim, Katie Howington, arrived by car at the URMC emergency room with a gunshot wound to the arm.
Preliminary investigation determined that an altercation among three men – victim Homman, resident Thomas, and Codey Piper – escalated during a party at the residence. Thomas displayed a weapon and fired several rounds, striking all three victims and causing the death of Homman. Alcohol was involved, according to the report.
After further investigation, Piper was released with no charges.
Thomas also was charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. He is being held at the Upson County Jail with additional charges pending, the report concluded.
Man Charged with Aggravated Assault for Local Shooting
Published 5-28-2020
Marquis Parks was arrested and charged with aggravated assault last week after a shooting on Parkway Drive near Weaver Park, according to a Thomaston Police Department report.
Parks shot Keith Shumate of Thomaston in the leg during a verbal altercation Tuesday, May 19, the report stated. Shumate was life-flighted to Macon and is expected to recover from the injury.
Preliminary investigation indicated the two men had argued days earlier, encountered each other again at Dollar General on East Main Street, and agreed to meet at Weaver Park for a “fight.” After shooting Shumate, Parks left the scene, drove to his residence on Park Lane, and called 911.
Parks admitted to his involvement, surrendered his weapon, and was transported to TPD for questioning. He is being held at Upson County Jail and additional charges may follow pending further investigation, according to the report.
In an unrelated incident, Rodriquez A. Spencer, 24, remains at large after allegedly nearly striking TPD officer Morgan Prosser after a traffic stop Sunday.
Prosser stopped a vehicle for noise ordinance violation, according to her report, near the intersection of Old Talbotton Road and South Green Street. When Prosser approached the vehicle, the driver placed the car in gear and “took off, almost running me over,” the report stated.
Multiple units joined a chase which ended in a crash on Green Street, snapping a utility pole and leaving the suspect vehicle inoperable. The vehicle was not registered to Spencer, and the vehicle owner denied knowing the driver.
Spencer fled on foot after the collision, and has not been located or arrested as of press time. He faces warrants for felony fleeing and multiple traffic offenses.
Other arrests reported include Calvin F. Moore, 28, for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule I controlled substance, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, along with traffic violations;
Kimberly A. Stewart, 27, possession of methamphetamine.
Marquis Parks was arrested and charged with aggravated assault last week after a shooting on Parkway Drive near Weaver Park, according to a Thomaston Police Department report.
Parks shot Keith Shumate of Thomaston in the leg during a verbal altercation Tuesday, May 19, the report stated. Shumate was life-flighted to Macon and is expected to recover from the injury.
Preliminary investigation indicated the two men had argued days earlier, encountered each other again at Dollar General on East Main Street, and agreed to meet at Weaver Park for a “fight.” After shooting Shumate, Parks left the scene, drove to his residence on Park Lane, and called 911.
Parks admitted to his involvement, surrendered his weapon, and was transported to TPD for questioning. He is being held at Upson County Jail and additional charges may follow pending further investigation, according to the report.
In an unrelated incident, Rodriquez A. Spencer, 24, remains at large after allegedly nearly striking TPD officer Morgan Prosser after a traffic stop Sunday.
Prosser stopped a vehicle for noise ordinance violation, according to her report, near the intersection of Old Talbotton Road and South Green Street. When Prosser approached the vehicle, the driver placed the car in gear and “took off, almost running me over,” the report stated.
Multiple units joined a chase which ended in a crash on Green Street, snapping a utility pole and leaving the suspect vehicle inoperable. The vehicle was not registered to Spencer, and the vehicle owner denied knowing the driver.
Spencer fled on foot after the collision, and has not been located or arrested as of press time. He faces warrants for felony fleeing and multiple traffic offenses.
Other arrests reported include Calvin F. Moore, 28, for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule I controlled substance, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, along with traffic violations;
Kimberly A. Stewart, 27, possession of methamphetamine.
COVID-19 Update
Published 5-28-2020
Upson County reported 275 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 33 deaths and 39 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 12 from the 263 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, and increase of eight from 31 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate is 104.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 3.8 from 100.09 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia grew to 43,586 (4,962 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 9,064) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 7,511 (up 509/prior week’s increase was 1,428) hospitalized and 1,853 (up 204/prior week’s increase was 391) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 118 (42.6 per 10k) and eight deaths, 18 hospitalized; Meriwether with 78 (37.1 per 10k) and one death, nine hospitalized; Lamar, 55 (28.4 per 10k) and one death, 10 hospitalized; Pike, 51 (27 per 10k) with two deaths and nine hospitalized; Talbot, 35 (56.8 per 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Crawford, 28 (22.9 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 21 (26.4 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized,
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 145 to 149 during the same one-week period, with no increase in combined resident deaths totaling 30, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (87 residents) with 30 resident cases (no increase/34.5 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (up three), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (74 residents) reports 63 resident cases (up one/85 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 275 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 33 deaths and 39 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 12 from the 263 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, and increase of eight from 31 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate is 104.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 3.8 from 100.09 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia grew to 43,586 (4,962 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 9,064) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 7,511 (up 509/prior week’s increase was 1,428) hospitalized and 1,853 (up 204/prior week’s increase was 391) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 118 (42.6 per 10k) and eight deaths, 18 hospitalized; Meriwether with 78 (37.1 per 10k) and one death, nine hospitalized; Lamar, 55 (28.4 per 10k) and one death, 10 hospitalized; Pike, 51 (27 per 10k) with two deaths and nine hospitalized; Talbot, 35 (56.8 per 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Crawford, 28 (22.9 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 21 (26.4 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized,
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 145 to 149 during the same one-week period, with no increase in combined resident deaths totaling 30, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (87 residents) with 30 resident cases (no increase/34.5 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (up three), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (74 residents) reports 63 resident cases (up one/85 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Joint Law Effort Nets Terel King
Published 5-21-2020
A joint effort involving the U.S. Marshall Service, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department and Zebulon Police Department resulted in the arrest of wanted felon Terel King in Upson last week.
Members of the four agencies found King hiding in a shed behind the residence at 136 Long View Loop and took him into custody without incident. Information provided by Zebulon PD with assistance from the U.S. Marshall’s Service led to King’s location, reports stated.
King is wanted for multiple felonies in numerous jurisdictions, including an aggravated assault charge against a Pike County officer. He escaped TPD personnel in February when a chase ended in a collision after King was identified in the Triune Village area of Thomaston.
Two other individuals, Teresia Williams and Kenyatta Snipes, were arrested at the residence for harboring a fugitive.
Additional charges are pending further investigation, according to reports from Upson Sheriff Dan Kilgore and TPD Chief Mike Richardson.
A joint effort involving the U.S. Marshall Service, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department and Zebulon Police Department resulted in the arrest of wanted felon Terel King in Upson last week.
Members of the four agencies found King hiding in a shed behind the residence at 136 Long View Loop and took him into custody without incident. Information provided by Zebulon PD with assistance from the U.S. Marshall’s Service led to King’s location, reports stated.
King is wanted for multiple felonies in numerous jurisdictions, including an aggravated assault charge against a Pike County officer. He escaped TPD personnel in February when a chase ended in a collision after King was identified in the Triune Village area of Thomaston.
Two other individuals, Teresia Williams and Kenyatta Snipes, were arrested at the residence for harboring a fugitive.
Additional charges are pending further investigation, according to reports from Upson Sheriff Dan Kilgore and TPD Chief Mike Richardson.
UL’s Gulley Named One of Nation’s Best MS Principals
Published 5-21-2020
Rhonda Gulley, principal of Upson-Lee Middle School in Thomaston, has been selected as the 2020 NAESP National Distinguished Principal, representing Georgia’s middle level principals. The National Association of Elementary School Principals established the program in 1984 to recognize and celebrate elementary and middle-level principals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and culture for the students, families, and staff members in their learning communities.
“Rhonda Gulley was nominated and selected by her fellow principals through a statewide search process conducted by the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals,” said Dr. Bob Heaberlin, executive director of the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals. She earned a bachelor’s degree in middle grades education in 1995 from Mercer University; a master’s degree in instructional technology from Troy State University in 2003; and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Columbus State University in 2011.
Ms. Gulley has spent her entire educational teaching and administrative career in the Thomaston-Upson County School System. From 1995-2005, and in 2010-2011, she taught grades 4, 5, and 6 at Upson-Lee Elementary School and Upson-Lee Middle School. She served as an Instructional Coach at Upson-Lee Primary School from 2005-2010 and then became the assistant principal at ULMS from 2011-2013. In 2013, she was selected as the principal at Upson-Lee Middle School.
“Principals create the necessary conditions for providing students with the well-rounded education that they need,” said Dr. L. Earl Franks, CAE, NAESP’s executive director. “NAESP’s National Distinguished Principals program recognizes the outstanding leadership of highly successful principals and their commitment to the children they serve, to their local communities, to their state, and our nation. Working in partnership with classroom teachers and other educators, these principals provide the necessary leadership to improve student achievement and ensure every student has a pathway to success.”
In October, Ms. Gulley will travel to Washington, D.C., for two days of activities planned to honor and bring well-deserved recognition to the elementary and middle-level educators chosen by the states, the District of Columbia, plus private and overseas schools. It is particularly fitting to acknowledge the work of principals in October because it is National Principals Month, which was established to recognize and honor the contributions of school principals toward the success of the nation’s students and encourage awareness of their significance.
Criteria for selection of the principals require that the honorees are active principals of schools where programs are designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students and where there are firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.
Since 2014, Ms. Gulley has served in many capacities on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals (GAMSP) and will assume the role of president for 2020-2021. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL). Ms. Gulley has received numerous state honors and awards including the Georgia Distinguished Principal Award and the GAMSP Exemplary Leadership Award. Through her leadership as principal at Upson-Lee Middle, the school has been redesignated twice as a GAMSP Effective Middle School Program recipient. In addition, ULMS has earned five redesignations as a Georgia Lighthouse School to Watch/National Designated School to Watch by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Learning. Three of these redesignations have come under the leadership of Ms. Gulley.
Upson-Lee Middle School consistently receives high marks for school climate on the state’s CCRPI, earning 4 out of 5 stars in 2019 and a perfect 5-star rating in 2018. Ms. Gulley led a team to write an application for ULMS to receive the Striving Readers Literacy Grant. This provided the Thomaston-Upson County School System $2.5 million to improve literacy over a three-year period.
Dr. Larry Derico, Superintendent of Thomaston-Upson County Schools, stated, “Mrs. Gulley, now in her seventh year as principal, is a confident, skillful, and intelligent leader within the field of education and is focused on continuous improvement for herself, her faculty and staff, and her students. Under her leadership, great things continue to happen at Upson-Lee Middle School.”
As a life-long resident of Thomaston and Upson County, Ms. Gulley has been active in several service organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Relay for Life, Recreation Department Football and Soccer Boards and Junior Women’s Club. She also has served on the Advisory Board of the School of Middle Childhood Education at Gordon State College. Rhonda is married to Russell Gulley and they have three sons, Logan, Barron, and Brooks.
Since 1978, the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals has served as Georgia’s professional middle grades educational leadership association and now represents over 600 middle level principals and assistant principals throughout the state. In addition to being an affiliate of the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders, GAMSP maintains close ties with the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-based National Association of Elementary School Principals and its 20,000 educational leader members worldwide.
Rhonda Gulley, principal of Upson-Lee Middle School in Thomaston, has been selected as the 2020 NAESP National Distinguished Principal, representing Georgia’s middle level principals. The National Association of Elementary School Principals established the program in 1984 to recognize and celebrate elementary and middle-level principals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and culture for the students, families, and staff members in their learning communities.
“Rhonda Gulley was nominated and selected by her fellow principals through a statewide search process conducted by the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals,” said Dr. Bob Heaberlin, executive director of the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals. She earned a bachelor’s degree in middle grades education in 1995 from Mercer University; a master’s degree in instructional technology from Troy State University in 2003; and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Columbus State University in 2011.
Ms. Gulley has spent her entire educational teaching and administrative career in the Thomaston-Upson County School System. From 1995-2005, and in 2010-2011, she taught grades 4, 5, and 6 at Upson-Lee Elementary School and Upson-Lee Middle School. She served as an Instructional Coach at Upson-Lee Primary School from 2005-2010 and then became the assistant principal at ULMS from 2011-2013. In 2013, she was selected as the principal at Upson-Lee Middle School.
“Principals create the necessary conditions for providing students with the well-rounded education that they need,” said Dr. L. Earl Franks, CAE, NAESP’s executive director. “NAESP’s National Distinguished Principals program recognizes the outstanding leadership of highly successful principals and their commitment to the children they serve, to their local communities, to their state, and our nation. Working in partnership with classroom teachers and other educators, these principals provide the necessary leadership to improve student achievement and ensure every student has a pathway to success.”
In October, Ms. Gulley will travel to Washington, D.C., for two days of activities planned to honor and bring well-deserved recognition to the elementary and middle-level educators chosen by the states, the District of Columbia, plus private and overseas schools. It is particularly fitting to acknowledge the work of principals in October because it is National Principals Month, which was established to recognize and honor the contributions of school principals toward the success of the nation’s students and encourage awareness of their significance.
Criteria for selection of the principals require that the honorees are active principals of schools where programs are designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students and where there are firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.
Since 2014, Ms. Gulley has served in many capacities on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals (GAMSP) and will assume the role of president for 2020-2021. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL). Ms. Gulley has received numerous state honors and awards including the Georgia Distinguished Principal Award and the GAMSP Exemplary Leadership Award. Through her leadership as principal at Upson-Lee Middle, the school has been redesignated twice as a GAMSP Effective Middle School Program recipient. In addition, ULMS has earned five redesignations as a Georgia Lighthouse School to Watch/National Designated School to Watch by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Learning. Three of these redesignations have come under the leadership of Ms. Gulley.
Upson-Lee Middle School consistently receives high marks for school climate on the state’s CCRPI, earning 4 out of 5 stars in 2019 and a perfect 5-star rating in 2018. Ms. Gulley led a team to write an application for ULMS to receive the Striving Readers Literacy Grant. This provided the Thomaston-Upson County School System $2.5 million to improve literacy over a three-year period.
Dr. Larry Derico, Superintendent of Thomaston-Upson County Schools, stated, “Mrs. Gulley, now in her seventh year as principal, is a confident, skillful, and intelligent leader within the field of education and is focused on continuous improvement for herself, her faculty and staff, and her students. Under her leadership, great things continue to happen at Upson-Lee Middle School.”
As a life-long resident of Thomaston and Upson County, Ms. Gulley has been active in several service organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Relay for Life, Recreation Department Football and Soccer Boards and Junior Women’s Club. She also has served on the Advisory Board of the School of Middle Childhood Education at Gordon State College. Rhonda is married to Russell Gulley and they have three sons, Logan, Barron, and Brooks.
Since 1978, the Georgia Association of Middle School Principals has served as Georgia’s professional middle grades educational leadership association and now represents over 600 middle level principals and assistant principals throughout the state. In addition to being an affiliate of the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders, GAMSP maintains close ties with the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-based National Association of Elementary School Principals and its 20,000 educational leader members worldwide.
COVID-19 Update
Published 5-21-2020
Upson County reported 263 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 33 deaths and 31 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 10 from the 253 confirmed cases, increase of nine from 24 deaths, and increase of four from 27 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate hit triple digits per 10,000 residents, posted at 100.09, an increase of 3.7 from 96.3 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia jumped to 38,624 (9,064 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 5,009) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 7,002 (up 1,428/prior week’s increase was 796) hospitalized and 1,649 (up 391/prior week’s increase was 238) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 98 (35.3 per 10k) and seven deaths, 12 hospitalized; Meriwether with 70 (33.3 per 10k) and one death, 11 hospitalized; Pike, 44 (23.3 per 10k) with two deaths and nine hospitalized; Lamar, 42 (21.7 per 10k) with one death and seven hospitalized; Talbot, 30 (48.7 per 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Taylor, 22 (27.6 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 19 (15.5 per 10k) and no deaths with four hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 139 to 145 during the same one-week period, with no increase in combined resident deaths totaling 30, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (88 residents) with 30 resident cases (up three/34 percent infection rate), 25 staff cases (down three), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (73 residents) reports 62 resident cases (up five/85 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (up one), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 263 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 33 deaths and 31 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 10 from the 253 confirmed cases, increase of nine from 24 deaths, and increase of four from 27 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Upson’s infection rate hit triple digits per 10,000 residents, posted at 100.09, an increase of 3.7 from 96.3 per 10k for the same period.
Georgia jumped to 38,624 (9,064 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 5,009) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 7,002 (up 1,428/prior week’s increase was 796) hospitalized and 1,649 (up 391/prior week’s increase was 238) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 98 (35.3 per 10k) and seven deaths, 12 hospitalized; Meriwether with 70 (33.3 per 10k) and one death, 11 hospitalized; Pike, 44 (23.3 per 10k) with two deaths and nine hospitalized; Lamar, 42 (21.7 per 10k) with one death and seven hospitalized; Talbot, 30 (48.7 per 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Taylor, 22 (27.6 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 19 (15.5 per 10k) and no deaths with four hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 139 to 145 during the same one-week period, with no increase in combined resident deaths totaling 30, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (88 residents) with 30 resident cases (up three/34 percent infection rate), 25 staff cases (down three), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (73 residents) reports 62 resident cases (up five/85 percent infection rate), 28 staff cases (up one), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Local NJROTC Program Awarded “Distinguished Unit”
Published 5-21-2020
The Upson Lee Navy Junior ROTC program was recently awarded “Distinguished Unit” for the 2019-2020 school year, marking the second consecutive year the program has earned the distinction.
The award recognizes outstanding achievement and is based on unit success in community service, team competitions, college campus visits, military base visits and annual inspection results. The award is the highest any unit can receive and places the Knight Battalion among the best of all programs in Georgia and northern Florida once again.
Congratulations to all of the cadets!
The Upson Lee Navy Junior ROTC program was recently awarded “Distinguished Unit” for the 2019-2020 school year, marking the second consecutive year the program has earned the distinction.
The award recognizes outstanding achievement and is based on unit success in community service, team competitions, college campus visits, military base visits and annual inspection results. The award is the highest any unit can receive and places the Knight Battalion among the best of all programs in Georgia and northern Florida once again.
Congratulations to all of the cadets!
Upson Classified as “Hot Spot” for Coronavirus
Department of Public Health Testing Staff “Will Be Here as Long as Needed”
Published 5-14-2020
By Bridge Turner
With positive cases and deaths continuing to rise and a per capita infection rate exponentially higher than all surrounding counties, the Georgia Department of Public Health has designated Upson County a “hot spot” for COVID-19, according to District 4 official Hayla Folden.
Folden said a substantial amount of infection originated in certain local nursing homes, then accelerated because the general public failed to adhere to social distancing recommendations. “That [failure to social distance] still may be playing a part in it,” she stated.
State DPH officials are testing an average of 60 people per day Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Thomaston-Upson Civic Center, and have added Saturday hours because of high demand, Folden explained. Tests are booked five minutes apart and are available by appointment only.
“We’re testing to try to control the spread, and will be here as long a needed,” she said. “The data is about two weeks behind. If exposed, you may not show symptoms for 14 days. But if you wear a mask, wash your hands frequently and social distance now, [the community] will start seeing benefits from it in two weeks.”
Despite being a topic of heated debate, Folden said even churches are required to adhere to guidelines, which include maintaining at least six feet of distance between all people at any gathering.
“Larger congregations may need to wait,” she suggested. “We all need to be very mindful of our space, because you never know who has it.”
Folden added that the DPH investigates complaints regarding large gatherings and failure to social distance.
According to department recommendations, symptomatic individuals who do not work in a healthcare setting with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 can return to work when three criteria have been met: 72 hours have passed since recovery (defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medication); respiratory symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath have improved; and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Folden also explained the discrepancy in nursing home deaths as compared to overall deaths reported in Upson County. Facilities are required to call the DPH daily with new positive cases, she said, but are not required to report related deaths from the disease. The lag in reporting deaths leads to numbers being skewed among different state entities.
Nursing homes also cannot deny admittance based on the virus.
Long-term care facilities “should admit residents who are no longer acutely ill back to their LTC residence, regardless of COVID-19 status,” according to the DPH interim guidance. “The decision to admit to a LTC facility should be based on clinical care needs, not on COVID-19 status. LTC facilities should not require hospitals to perform COVID-19 testing as a condition for LTC admission.”
However, the document states that “all residents admitted to LTC facilities should be considered exposed to COVID-19. Most residents will therefore require transmission-based precautions after admission.”
Precautions include designation of a quarantine area, 14-day monitoring for symptoms at least three times daily, resident isolation (if necessary) and resident wearing of face masks (if tolerated). Staff personal protection equipment should include gown, gloves, face mask, and eye protection in the form of goggles or a face shield.
A test-based strategy is preferred to determine when precautions may be discontinued, but non-test-based strategy may be used if testing is not readily available.
The guidance suggests the following for staff:
•All staff in LTC facilities should be masked.
•Healthcare personnel that are ill should stay home and notify their supervisor, especially if symptoms are consistent with COVID-19; if symptoms develop at work, the staff member should immediately go home to isolate.
•Facilities should implement sick leave policies that are non-punitive, flexible, and consistent with the goal of allowing ill staff to stay home.
•Facilities should ensure that staff affirm absence of CIVID-19 symptoms (sore throat, cough, fever) upon arrival for each shift.
For prohibition of visitors, it suggests:
•Offer alternative methods of visitation (Skype, Face Time, etc.), if available.
•Actively assess all essential people entering the facility for a fever and respiratory symptoms; do not allow ill people to enter the facility.
•Only allow visitors for compassionate end of life care; all such visitors should be masked (cloth masks are acceptable if surgical masks are not available), and instructed to perform hand hygiene frequently.
For information about testing, call 1-800-847-4262.
By Bridge Turner
With positive cases and deaths continuing to rise and a per capita infection rate exponentially higher than all surrounding counties, the Georgia Department of Public Health has designated Upson County a “hot spot” for COVID-19, according to District 4 official Hayla Folden.
Folden said a substantial amount of infection originated in certain local nursing homes, then accelerated because the general public failed to adhere to social distancing recommendations. “That [failure to social distance] still may be playing a part in it,” she stated.
State DPH officials are testing an average of 60 people per day Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Thomaston-Upson Civic Center, and have added Saturday hours because of high demand, Folden explained. Tests are booked five minutes apart and are available by appointment only.
“We’re testing to try to control the spread, and will be here as long a needed,” she said. “The data is about two weeks behind. If exposed, you may not show symptoms for 14 days. But if you wear a mask, wash your hands frequently and social distance now, [the community] will start seeing benefits from it in two weeks.”
Despite being a topic of heated debate, Folden said even churches are required to adhere to guidelines, which include maintaining at least six feet of distance between all people at any gathering.
“Larger congregations may need to wait,” she suggested. “We all need to be very mindful of our space, because you never know who has it.”
Folden added that the DPH investigates complaints regarding large gatherings and failure to social distance.
According to department recommendations, symptomatic individuals who do not work in a healthcare setting with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 can return to work when three criteria have been met: 72 hours have passed since recovery (defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medication); respiratory symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath have improved; and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Folden also explained the discrepancy in nursing home deaths as compared to overall deaths reported in Upson County. Facilities are required to call the DPH daily with new positive cases, she said, but are not required to report related deaths from the disease. The lag in reporting deaths leads to numbers being skewed among different state entities.
Nursing homes also cannot deny admittance based on the virus.
Long-term care facilities “should admit residents who are no longer acutely ill back to their LTC residence, regardless of COVID-19 status,” according to the DPH interim guidance. “The decision to admit to a LTC facility should be based on clinical care needs, not on COVID-19 status. LTC facilities should not require hospitals to perform COVID-19 testing as a condition for LTC admission.”
However, the document states that “all residents admitted to LTC facilities should be considered exposed to COVID-19. Most residents will therefore require transmission-based precautions after admission.”
Precautions include designation of a quarantine area, 14-day monitoring for symptoms at least three times daily, resident isolation (if necessary) and resident wearing of face masks (if tolerated). Staff personal protection equipment should include gown, gloves, face mask, and eye protection in the form of goggles or a face shield.
A test-based strategy is preferred to determine when precautions may be discontinued, but non-test-based strategy may be used if testing is not readily available.
The guidance suggests the following for staff:
•All staff in LTC facilities should be masked.
•Healthcare personnel that are ill should stay home and notify their supervisor, especially if symptoms are consistent with COVID-19; if symptoms develop at work, the staff member should immediately go home to isolate.
•Facilities should implement sick leave policies that are non-punitive, flexible, and consistent with the goal of allowing ill staff to stay home.
•Facilities should ensure that staff affirm absence of CIVID-19 symptoms (sore throat, cough, fever) upon arrival for each shift.
For prohibition of visitors, it suggests:
•Offer alternative methods of visitation (Skype, Face Time, etc.), if available.
•Actively assess all essential people entering the facility for a fever and respiratory symptoms; do not allow ill people to enter the facility.
•Only allow visitors for compassionate end of life care; all such visitors should be masked (cloth masks are acceptable if surgical masks are not available), and instructed to perform hand hygiene frequently.
For information about testing, call 1-800-847-4262.
Upson Lee Announces 2020
Valedictorian and Salutatorian
L-R: ULHS Principal Dr. Jarvis Price, Colby McRae, Knox Miller and
T-U Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico. Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 5-14-2020
Upson-Lee High School Principal Dr. Jarvis Price has announced the Class of 2020 Top two Seniors. Colby Brooks McRae is the 2020 valedictorian, and Michael Knox Miller is salutatorian. Valedictorian is the senior with the highest overall numeric average who has also completed all available honors courses and at least three of the advanced placement (AP) courses in different core areas. Salutatorian is the student with the second highest overall numeric average who has completed the same courses described for eligibility of the Valedictorian.
Colby McRae is the son of Barbie Phillips and Tim McRae. He has accepted an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy located in Colorado Springs, CO., valued at over $400,000. Appointments to the academy require at least one congressional nomination. Colby was honored to receive nominations from Senator David Perdue and Senator Johnny Isakson. Colby reports for basic cadet training on June 25 in Colorado Springs. He hopes to major in aeronautical engineering and become a pilot after graduation. While in high school, Colby has been a member of Student Council and is currently the Senior Class President. He also is a member of Beta Club and was the treasurer for National Honor Society. Colby is an avid runner and was a member of the ULHS Cross Country and Wrestling teams. Colby was named STAR student, was an honor graduate of Georgia Boys State, and was The Upson EMC Youth Tour Delegate.
Knox Miller is the son of Ben and Mandy Miller. He will be attending the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega and plans to major in engineering. At ULHS, Knox was a four-year Letterman of varsity Cross Country Team and served as captain his senior year. He has been a member of Student Council for four years and served one year as class Secretary. Knox is Editor of the ULHS yearbook, a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a graduate of the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Upson, and an Eagle Scout. He is a member of National Beta Club, National Honors Society, and is a Knight of Distinction.
Upson-Lee High School Principal Dr. Jarvis Price has announced the Class of 2020 Top two Seniors. Colby Brooks McRae is the 2020 valedictorian, and Michael Knox Miller is salutatorian. Valedictorian is the senior with the highest overall numeric average who has also completed all available honors courses and at least three of the advanced placement (AP) courses in different core areas. Salutatorian is the student with the second highest overall numeric average who has completed the same courses described for eligibility of the Valedictorian.
Colby McRae is the son of Barbie Phillips and Tim McRae. He has accepted an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy located in Colorado Springs, CO., valued at over $400,000. Appointments to the academy require at least one congressional nomination. Colby was honored to receive nominations from Senator David Perdue and Senator Johnny Isakson. Colby reports for basic cadet training on June 25 in Colorado Springs. He hopes to major in aeronautical engineering and become a pilot after graduation. While in high school, Colby has been a member of Student Council and is currently the Senior Class President. He also is a member of Beta Club and was the treasurer for National Honor Society. Colby is an avid runner and was a member of the ULHS Cross Country and Wrestling teams. Colby was named STAR student, was an honor graduate of Georgia Boys State, and was The Upson EMC Youth Tour Delegate.
Knox Miller is the son of Ben and Mandy Miller. He will be attending the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega and plans to major in engineering. At ULHS, Knox was a four-year Letterman of varsity Cross Country Team and served as captain his senior year. He has been a member of Student Council for four years and served one year as class Secretary. Knox is Editor of the ULHS yearbook, a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a graduate of the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Upson, and an Eagle Scout. He is a member of National Beta Club, National Honors Society, and is a Knight of Distinction.
COVID-19 Update
Published 5-14-2020
Upson County reported 253 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 24 deaths and 27 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 12 from the 241 confirmed cases, increase of three from 21 deaths, and increase of three from 24 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. Upson’s infection rate was posted at 96.3 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 4.6 from 91.7 per 10k for the same time period.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 124 to 139 during the same time period, with combined resident deaths up from 25 to 30 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (86 residents) with 27 resident cases (up one), 28 staff cases (up six), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (71 residents) reports 57 resident cases (up six), 27 staff cases (up two), and 15 resident deaths (up five) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 29,560 (5,009 increase from same time last week) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 5,574 (up 796) hospitalized and 1,258 (up 238) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 66 (31.4 per 10k) and one death, 10 hospitalized; Pike, 46 (24.4 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; Lamar, 40 (20.7 per 10k) with one death and six hospitalized; Monroe, 40 (14.4 per 10k) with four deaths and eight hospitalized; Talbot, 27 (43.8 per 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Taylor, 20 (25.1 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 20 (16.4 per 10k) and no deaths with four hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 253 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 24 deaths and 27 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 12 from the 241 confirmed cases, increase of three from 21 deaths, and increase of three from 24 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. Upson’s infection rate was posted at 96.3 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 4.6 from 91.7 per 10k for the same time period.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 124 to 139 during the same time period, with combined resident deaths up from 25 to 30 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (86 residents) with 27 resident cases (up one), 28 staff cases (up six), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (71 residents) reports 57 resident cases (up six), 27 staff cases (up two), and 15 resident deaths (up five) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 29,560 (5,009 increase from same time last week) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 5,574 (up 796) hospitalized and 1,258 (up 238) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 66 (31.4 per 10k) and one death, 10 hospitalized; Pike, 46 (24.4 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; Lamar, 40 (20.7 per 10k) with one death and six hospitalized; Monroe, 40 (14.4 per 10k) with four deaths and eight hospitalized; Talbot, 27 (43.8 per 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Taylor, 20 (25.1 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 20 (16.4 per 10k) and no deaths with four hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Conflicting Reports Encircle Harborview
Harborview Health Systems of Thomaston
Published 5-7-2020
By Debbie McClain
A former employee with Harborview Health Systems of Thomaston recently reported to Channel 5 Action News that she quit her job there because the facility was drastically understaffed, causing COVID-19 cases to rise in patients and staff.
The confidential source said she was concerned about Harborview’s procedures and believed the system contributed to the virus spreading and causing deaths. She said she was the only CNA working in a building one night with about 100 patients, and that there were two deaths during that shift. She told Channel 5 that often there was only one CNA working the “sick hall,” and that lone employee would return to regular rooms to assist other patients, transmitting the virus in the process.
Since the story aired, the Upson Beacon has been contacted by two other confidential sources who echoed the information on Channel 5. The sources said the facility continued taking new patients through April, despite management being aware of staffing shortage and a rise in COVID-19 cases.
Other information provided to the Beacon includes threats made to staff members if they did not return to work, even when testing positive and showing symptoms, and failure to issue personal protection equipment until the first or second week of April because it was deemed “unprofessional.” One reported that CNAs from other facilities were brought in during the day in case there was an unannounced state inspection.
The Beacon called Harborview Executive Director Sharlene Wright last week, but she refused to comment. Harborview’s Pat Wise, vice president of rehabilitation services, submitted the following statement from Wright:
“Our primary interest is the protection of our staff and residents in these unprecedented times. We have been very careful with regard to infection control and have followed all CDC guidelines and state and federal regulations. The state has determined that we are in compliance.
“While some of our residents have succumbed to this terrible disease, we are blessed in the manor that many of our staff and residents are getting well and recovering. We are grateful that we have had the appropriate tools and supplies to work with, some of which were provided by the Georgia EMA Coalition. And the National Guard has graciously assisted in keeping our facility clean and disinfected.
“We ask the community to lift our facility up in prayer.”
Jim Leibowtiz, one of the two owners of Harborview, said the employees there are working diligently to care for the patients and residents. He added that the “real story” is that the community needs to lift the employees and residents in prayer right now. He said the dedicated staff members are winning against the virus, that there are several residents preparing to be re-tested because they are doing so well, and several of the staff members are also ready to be retested.
He said what is occurring at Harborview is a tragedy and that everyone involved would change it if they could.
Leibowtiz asked if Trese Brits, the dietary manager for Harborview who previously tested positive for COVID-19, could call the Beacon and give a different account.
Brits called and told the Beacon she has been home for 15 days and tested positive again, and that she will be retested in seven days. She said the company has continued to pay her full wage while she has been home quarantined, that she was issued her PPE early, and that if she needed anything, all she had to do was ask.
Brits said she enjoys working at Harborview and has never had any problems. Brits said, “I feel much better and can’t wait until this is all over with, so I can go back to work.”
Two other employees who tested positive for COVID-19 also called the Beacon and discounted the claims made by the confidential sources.
The Georgia National Guard has been dispatched to Harborview twice in one month to clean the facility.
According to the Georgia Department of Community Health’s Long-Term Facility report issued Monday evening, Harborview has 89 patients, 26 of those testing positive for COVID-19, and 15 resident deaths. There also are 22 staff members who tested positive.
By Debbie McClain
A former employee with Harborview Health Systems of Thomaston recently reported to Channel 5 Action News that she quit her job there because the facility was drastically understaffed, causing COVID-19 cases to rise in patients and staff.
The confidential source said she was concerned about Harborview’s procedures and believed the system contributed to the virus spreading and causing deaths. She said she was the only CNA working in a building one night with about 100 patients, and that there were two deaths during that shift. She told Channel 5 that often there was only one CNA working the “sick hall,” and that lone employee would return to regular rooms to assist other patients, transmitting the virus in the process.
Since the story aired, the Upson Beacon has been contacted by two other confidential sources who echoed the information on Channel 5. The sources said the facility continued taking new patients through April, despite management being aware of staffing shortage and a rise in COVID-19 cases.
Other information provided to the Beacon includes threats made to staff members if they did not return to work, even when testing positive and showing symptoms, and failure to issue personal protection equipment until the first or second week of April because it was deemed “unprofessional.” One reported that CNAs from other facilities were brought in during the day in case there was an unannounced state inspection.
The Beacon called Harborview Executive Director Sharlene Wright last week, but she refused to comment. Harborview’s Pat Wise, vice president of rehabilitation services, submitted the following statement from Wright:
“Our primary interest is the protection of our staff and residents in these unprecedented times. We have been very careful with regard to infection control and have followed all CDC guidelines and state and federal regulations. The state has determined that we are in compliance.
“While some of our residents have succumbed to this terrible disease, we are blessed in the manor that many of our staff and residents are getting well and recovering. We are grateful that we have had the appropriate tools and supplies to work with, some of which were provided by the Georgia EMA Coalition. And the National Guard has graciously assisted in keeping our facility clean and disinfected.
“We ask the community to lift our facility up in prayer.”
Jim Leibowtiz, one of the two owners of Harborview, said the employees there are working diligently to care for the patients and residents. He added that the “real story” is that the community needs to lift the employees and residents in prayer right now. He said the dedicated staff members are winning against the virus, that there are several residents preparing to be re-tested because they are doing so well, and several of the staff members are also ready to be retested.
He said what is occurring at Harborview is a tragedy and that everyone involved would change it if they could.
Leibowtiz asked if Trese Brits, the dietary manager for Harborview who previously tested positive for COVID-19, could call the Beacon and give a different account.
Brits called and told the Beacon she has been home for 15 days and tested positive again, and that she will be retested in seven days. She said the company has continued to pay her full wage while she has been home quarantined, that she was issued her PPE early, and that if she needed anything, all she had to do was ask.
Brits said she enjoys working at Harborview and has never had any problems. Brits said, “I feel much better and can’t wait until this is all over with, so I can go back to work.”
Two other employees who tested positive for COVID-19 also called the Beacon and discounted the claims made by the confidential sources.
The Georgia National Guard has been dispatched to Harborview twice in one month to clean the facility.
According to the Georgia Department of Community Health’s Long-Term Facility report issued Monday evening, Harborview has 89 patients, 26 of those testing positive for COVID-19, and 15 resident deaths. There also are 22 staff members who tested positive.
COVID-19 Update
Published 5-7-2020
Upson County reported 241 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 21 deaths and 24 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 35 from the 206 confirmed cases, increase of four from 17 deaths, and increase of nine from 15 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. Upson’s infection rate was posted at 91.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 13.3 from 78.4 per 10k for the same time period.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 123 to 124 during the same time period, with combined resident deaths up from 22 to 25 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview with 26 resident cases (up one), 22 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (up two). Providence reports 51 resident cases (up one), 25 staff cases (down one), and 10 resident deaths (up one) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 29,560 (5,009 increase from same time last week) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 5,574 (up 796) hospitalized and 1,258 (up 238) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 56 (26.6 per 10k) and one death, nine hospitalized; Pike, 40 (21.2 per 10k) with 2 deaths and seven hospitalized; Lamar, 39 (20.2 per 10k) with one death and four hospitalized; Monroe, 29 (10.5 per 10k) with four deaths and seven hospitalized; Talbot, 25 (40.6 per 10k) with one death and 12 hospitalized; Taylor, 18 (22.6 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 18 (14.7 per 10k) and no deaths with four hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 241 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 21 deaths and 24 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 35 from the 206 confirmed cases, increase of four from 17 deaths, and increase of nine from 15 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. Upson’s infection rate was posted at 91.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 13.3 from 78.4 per 10k for the same time period.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 123 to 124 during the same time period, with combined resident deaths up from 22 to 25 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview with 26 resident cases (up one), 22 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (up two). Providence reports 51 resident cases (up one), 25 staff cases (down one), and 10 resident deaths (up one) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 29,560 (5,009 increase from same time last week) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 5,574 (up 796) hospitalized and 1,258 (up 238) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 56 (26.6 per 10k) and one death, nine hospitalized; Pike, 40 (21.2 per 10k) with 2 deaths and seven hospitalized; Lamar, 39 (20.2 per 10k) with one death and four hospitalized; Monroe, 29 (10.5 per 10k) with four deaths and seven hospitalized; Talbot, 25 (40.6 per 10k) with one death and 12 hospitalized; Taylor, 18 (22.6 per 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 18 (14.7 per 10k) and no deaths with four hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Seniors Protest COVID-19 Graduation Procedures
Virtual Graduation Slated May 29
Students are shown holding signs protesting decisions regarding the 2020 Upson-Lee graduation.
Published 5-7-2020
By Luke Haney
Members of the Upson Lee Class of 2020, along with family, friends and supporters, lined Highway 19 between the Greatest Generation Memorial Park and Thomaston Walmart Supercenter to protest the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education’s decisions regarding 2020 graduation procedures last Sunday.
On May 4, the Thomaston-Upson BOE released a statement regarding the upcoming virtual graduation:
“Upson-Lee High School will host a virtual commencement ceremony for the senior class of 2020 on Friday, May 29, at 8 p.m. The ceremony will be streamed on YouTube Premiere, and a link will be provided on the ULHS and Thomaston-Upson websites and social media sites.
“Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico stated, ‘My heart goes out to all of our amazing seniors in the ULHS Class of 2020. We want to ensure that these young men and women receive the memorable and treasured recognition that they deserve. In addition to a unique and personalized virtual graduation ceremony, Dr. Price and his staff have planned special gifts and celebrations for the Class of 2020. ULHS seniors will have yard signs, purple porch lights, and a banner on the courthouse square. We are asking the community to join the celebration by coloring the town purple with purple porch lights and purple ribbons. We are also encouraging businesses to paint their windows or put up signs in support of these seniors. I look forward to this community coming together to honor the Upson-Lee High School Class of 2020!’”
Graduates and their family members expressed concerns that more could be done. Students held signs with messages like “Class of 2020 Graduation Matters” and “Call the School Board.”
Several parents have questioned why UL is not holding graduation when surrounding communities are holding graduation ceremonies in upcoming months.
Upson-Lee High School reports the highest amount of senior students in comparison to surrounding counties with 299 students in grade 12. Pike County High School has 230 reported seniors, Lamar County High School has 168, Mary Persons High School in Monroe County has 288, Crawford County High School has 100, Taylor County has 94, Talbot County has 29, Greenville High School in Meriwether County has 61, and Manchester High School in Meriwether County has 101, all according to the Georgia Department of Education’s March 5 report.
As of noon today, Upson County reports 246 confirmed COVID-19 cases with a case rate of 936.18 per 100,000; Pike County reports 41 confirmed cases with a case rate of 217.39; Lamar County reports 38 cases with a case rate of 196.41; Monroe County reports 34 cases with a case rate of 122.62; Crawford County reports 19 cases with a case rate of 155.38; Taylor County reports 18 cases with a case rate of 226.19; Talbot County reports 25 cases with a case rate of 405.98; Meriwether County reports 60 cases with a case rate of 285.44, all according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Earlier today, Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico released a letter to elaborate on why the decision of a virtual graduation was made:
“As the superintendent, I would like first to say that my heart goes out to all of our amazing seniors in the ULHS class of 2020. The class of 2020 has been deprived of many of the cherished milestone events of the last year of high school. The COVID-19 pandemic blindsided this state, the country, and the world and has interrupted all of our daily lives in unprecedented ways.
“Dr. Price, high school leadership, and student leaders, along with myself and members of my cabinet, have put an enormous amount of time and thought into making a graduation decision that would allow the senior class to be celebrated in the safest and most meaningful way. A virtual graduation allows us the ability to safely recognize and celebrate our seniors and their academic accomplishments over the course of their educational careers.
“We understand that seniors will not be able to take the historic walk across the stage at Matthews Field this month, as we must adhere to the safety guidelines set forth by federal and state leaders. The safety of our students has always been and will continue to be our first priority. We cannot predict the future impact that COVID-19 will have on our daily lives in the coming weeks and months; therefore, at this time, we cannot guarantee if or when a physical graduation may occur. As school leaders, we understand that this senior class did not have an opportunity to properly say their goodbyes to one another, and we recognize how painful this is for each of them.
“It has been expressed by Dr. Price that the high school has planned to gather the senior class of 2020 back together at a later date for an event that will give this class a time for closure. Upson-Lee High School has not taken the possibility of having a physical graduation off of the table for late summer. If the conditions are safe and feasible for a physical graduation, based on information disseminated from federal, state, and local leaders, then a date and time for a physical graduation will be released.
“To the senior class of 2020, I know that you have faced obstacles never encountered by another group of high school seniors, but you have continued to learn, grow, overcome, and succeed. On May 29, we will come together to honor and celebrate you. Always know that I believe in you and care deeply for each of you. I, along with our entire community, will forever remember the Upson-Lee High School Class of 2020. We are UL!”
Sincerely,
Larry Derico, Ed.D., Superintendent.
By Luke Haney
Members of the Upson Lee Class of 2020, along with family, friends and supporters, lined Highway 19 between the Greatest Generation Memorial Park and Thomaston Walmart Supercenter to protest the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education’s decisions regarding 2020 graduation procedures last Sunday.
On May 4, the Thomaston-Upson BOE released a statement regarding the upcoming virtual graduation:
“Upson-Lee High School will host a virtual commencement ceremony for the senior class of 2020 on Friday, May 29, at 8 p.m. The ceremony will be streamed on YouTube Premiere, and a link will be provided on the ULHS and Thomaston-Upson websites and social media sites.
“Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico stated, ‘My heart goes out to all of our amazing seniors in the ULHS Class of 2020. We want to ensure that these young men and women receive the memorable and treasured recognition that they deserve. In addition to a unique and personalized virtual graduation ceremony, Dr. Price and his staff have planned special gifts and celebrations for the Class of 2020. ULHS seniors will have yard signs, purple porch lights, and a banner on the courthouse square. We are asking the community to join the celebration by coloring the town purple with purple porch lights and purple ribbons. We are also encouraging businesses to paint their windows or put up signs in support of these seniors. I look forward to this community coming together to honor the Upson-Lee High School Class of 2020!’”
Graduates and their family members expressed concerns that more could be done. Students held signs with messages like “Class of 2020 Graduation Matters” and “Call the School Board.”
Several parents have questioned why UL is not holding graduation when surrounding communities are holding graduation ceremonies in upcoming months.
Upson-Lee High School reports the highest amount of senior students in comparison to surrounding counties with 299 students in grade 12. Pike County High School has 230 reported seniors, Lamar County High School has 168, Mary Persons High School in Monroe County has 288, Crawford County High School has 100, Taylor County has 94, Talbot County has 29, Greenville High School in Meriwether County has 61, and Manchester High School in Meriwether County has 101, all according to the Georgia Department of Education’s March 5 report.
As of noon today, Upson County reports 246 confirmed COVID-19 cases with a case rate of 936.18 per 100,000; Pike County reports 41 confirmed cases with a case rate of 217.39; Lamar County reports 38 cases with a case rate of 196.41; Monroe County reports 34 cases with a case rate of 122.62; Crawford County reports 19 cases with a case rate of 155.38; Taylor County reports 18 cases with a case rate of 226.19; Talbot County reports 25 cases with a case rate of 405.98; Meriwether County reports 60 cases with a case rate of 285.44, all according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Earlier today, Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico released a letter to elaborate on why the decision of a virtual graduation was made:
“As the superintendent, I would like first to say that my heart goes out to all of our amazing seniors in the ULHS class of 2020. The class of 2020 has been deprived of many of the cherished milestone events of the last year of high school. The COVID-19 pandemic blindsided this state, the country, and the world and has interrupted all of our daily lives in unprecedented ways.
“Dr. Price, high school leadership, and student leaders, along with myself and members of my cabinet, have put an enormous amount of time and thought into making a graduation decision that would allow the senior class to be celebrated in the safest and most meaningful way. A virtual graduation allows us the ability to safely recognize and celebrate our seniors and their academic accomplishments over the course of their educational careers.
“We understand that seniors will not be able to take the historic walk across the stage at Matthews Field this month, as we must adhere to the safety guidelines set forth by federal and state leaders. The safety of our students has always been and will continue to be our first priority. We cannot predict the future impact that COVID-19 will have on our daily lives in the coming weeks and months; therefore, at this time, we cannot guarantee if or when a physical graduation may occur. As school leaders, we understand that this senior class did not have an opportunity to properly say their goodbyes to one another, and we recognize how painful this is for each of them.
“It has been expressed by Dr. Price that the high school has planned to gather the senior class of 2020 back together at a later date for an event that will give this class a time for closure. Upson-Lee High School has not taken the possibility of having a physical graduation off of the table for late summer. If the conditions are safe and feasible for a physical graduation, based on information disseminated from federal, state, and local leaders, then a date and time for a physical graduation will be released.
“To the senior class of 2020, I know that you have faced obstacles never encountered by another group of high school seniors, but you have continued to learn, grow, overcome, and succeed. On May 29, we will come together to honor and celebrate you. Always know that I believe in you and care deeply for each of you. I, along with our entire community, will forever remember the Upson-Lee High School Class of 2020. We are UL!”
Sincerely,
Larry Derico, Ed.D., Superintendent.
Hearts of Hope Over Upson
Fifteen airplanes saluted URMC, healthcare providers, first responders and essential workers in the Thomaston area by creating a heart above the community. Photo by Stacy Haygood.
Published 4-30-2020
The Falcon RV Squadron of Peachtree City flew to Upson to perform “Hearts of Hope” above Upson Regional Medical Center in support of those tirelessly fighting COVID-19. The heart was visible throughout Upson County. Fifteen airplanes saluted URMC, healthcare providers, first responders and essential workers in the Thomaston area.
“Hearts of Hope” have also been performed in Peachtree City, Griffin and Metro Atlanta.
The Falcon RV Squadron of Peachtree City flew to Upson to perform “Hearts of Hope” above Upson Regional Medical Center in support of those tirelessly fighting COVID-19. The heart was visible throughout Upson County. Fifteen airplanes saluted URMC, healthcare providers, first responders and essential workers in the Thomaston area.
“Hearts of Hope” have also been performed in Peachtree City, Griffin and Metro Atlanta.
Local COVID-19 Cases Continue to Rise
Upson’s Per Capita Infection Rate More Than Triple State Average
Published 4-30-2020
By Bridge Turner
With more than 78 positive COVID-19 cases reported per 10,000 residents, Upson County’s per capita infection rate exceeds three times the overall average for the state of Georgia, according to multiple online sources.
Most sources show Georgia slightly above 23 cases per 10,000 and Upson’s numbers stand at 78.4 per 10,000 as of noon Tuesday. If the state infection rate matched Upson County, Georgia’s 24,550 positive cases would soar past 83,000.
For comparison, Fulton County is reported at 24.6 positives in 10,000 residents; Dekalb is at 23.7; Clayton at 21.7; Cobb at 19.1; and Gwinnett, 16.2. Upson’s neighboring counties range from Monroe with 8.3 to Talbot with a reported 35.7 per 10,000. Randolph County, just west of Albany, is on the extreme end of the scale with almost 231 cases per 10,000 residents.
Thomaston City Manager Russell Thompson released a statement last week regarding Gov. Brian Kemp’s recent allowance to begin reopening state businesses and Upson’s climbing numbers.
“The positive cases here in Upson County continue to rise. Per the governor’s most recent order… certain businesses previously closed will presumptively start to reopen at the discretion of their owners… These openings will not resemble operations as they were pre-COVID,” the city’s press release stated. “The governor has released 20 criteria that must be followed to maximize safety to staff and patrons as a condition of reopening.
“The City of Thomaston would like to petition, urge, and reiterate to all citizens, to use their best judgement, adhere to safety precautions, and follow all previous guidance from the CDC and health department. Continue to social distance, stay home when practically possible, and be courteous to your fellow citizens,” the statement continued. “We are one community and depend on the actions of all to ensure public health.
“The city will continue to provide services and guidance where prudent to our citizens, however the governor’s order has pre-empted local ordinances and actions of the governing bodies. This means that, as a local government, we cannot enact more stringent measures or alter in a more lenient fashion the order from the governor,” the press release explained. “We urge you, be smart and be safe!”
Businesses reopening cannot allow more than 10 people to gather at a single location if it requires people to stand or sit within six feet of any other person (does not apply to cohabitating people outside of their homes, family units or roommates residing together).
According to the Georgie Department of Public Health, businesses also must comply with measures which mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19, as follows:
1. Screening and evaluating workers who exhibit signs of illness, such as a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, or shortness of breath;
2. Requiring workers who exhibit signs of illness to not report to work or to seek medical attention;
3. Enhancing sanitation of the workplace as appropriate;
4. Requiring hand washing or sanitation by workers at appropriate places within the business location;
5. Providing personal protective equipment as available and appropriate to the function and location of the worker within the business location;
6. Prohibiting gatherings of workers during working hours;
7. Permitting workers to take breaks and meals outside, in their office or personal workspace, or in such other areas where proper social distancing is attainable;
8. Implementing teleworking for all possible workers;
9. Implementing staggered shifts for all possible workers;
10. Holding all meetings and conferences virtually, wherever possible;
11. Delivering intangible services remotely wherever possible;
12. Discouraging workers from using other workers’ phones, desks, offices, or other work tools and equipment;
13. Prohibiting handshaking and other unnecessary person-to-person contact in the workplace;
14. Placing notices that encourage hand hygiene at the entrance to the workplace and in other workplace areas where they are likely to be seen;
15. Suspending the use of personal identification number (PIN) pads, PIN entry devices, electronic signature capture, and any other credit card receipt signature requirements to the extent such suspension is permitted by agreements with credit card companies and credit agencies;
16. Enforcing social distancing of non-cohabitating persons while present on such entity’s leased or owned property;
17. For retailers and service providers, providing for alternative points of sale outside of buildings, including curbside pickup or delivery of products and/or services if an alternative point of sale is permitted under Georgia law;
18. Increasing physical space between workers’ worksites to at least six feet.
19. Providing disinfectant and sanitation products for workers to clean their workspace, equipment, and tools;
People over the age of 65 and any citizens with underlying medical conditions are encouraged to stay home until May 13.
The governor’s office is expected to release more guidelines as his reopening plan progresses.
By Bridge Turner
With more than 78 positive COVID-19 cases reported per 10,000 residents, Upson County’s per capita infection rate exceeds three times the overall average for the state of Georgia, according to multiple online sources.
Most sources show Georgia slightly above 23 cases per 10,000 and Upson’s numbers stand at 78.4 per 10,000 as of noon Tuesday. If the state infection rate matched Upson County, Georgia’s 24,550 positive cases would soar past 83,000.
For comparison, Fulton County is reported at 24.6 positives in 10,000 residents; Dekalb is at 23.7; Clayton at 21.7; Cobb at 19.1; and Gwinnett, 16.2. Upson’s neighboring counties range from Monroe with 8.3 to Talbot with a reported 35.7 per 10,000. Randolph County, just west of Albany, is on the extreme end of the scale with almost 231 cases per 10,000 residents.
Thomaston City Manager Russell Thompson released a statement last week regarding Gov. Brian Kemp’s recent allowance to begin reopening state businesses and Upson’s climbing numbers.
“The positive cases here in Upson County continue to rise. Per the governor’s most recent order… certain businesses previously closed will presumptively start to reopen at the discretion of their owners… These openings will not resemble operations as they were pre-COVID,” the city’s press release stated. “The governor has released 20 criteria that must be followed to maximize safety to staff and patrons as a condition of reopening.
“The City of Thomaston would like to petition, urge, and reiterate to all citizens, to use their best judgement, adhere to safety precautions, and follow all previous guidance from the CDC and health department. Continue to social distance, stay home when practically possible, and be courteous to your fellow citizens,” the statement continued. “We are one community and depend on the actions of all to ensure public health.
“The city will continue to provide services and guidance where prudent to our citizens, however the governor’s order has pre-empted local ordinances and actions of the governing bodies. This means that, as a local government, we cannot enact more stringent measures or alter in a more lenient fashion the order from the governor,” the press release explained. “We urge you, be smart and be safe!”
Businesses reopening cannot allow more than 10 people to gather at a single location if it requires people to stand or sit within six feet of any other person (does not apply to cohabitating people outside of their homes, family units or roommates residing together).
According to the Georgie Department of Public Health, businesses also must comply with measures which mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19, as follows:
1. Screening and evaluating workers who exhibit signs of illness, such as a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, or shortness of breath;
2. Requiring workers who exhibit signs of illness to not report to work or to seek medical attention;
3. Enhancing sanitation of the workplace as appropriate;
4. Requiring hand washing or sanitation by workers at appropriate places within the business location;
5. Providing personal protective equipment as available and appropriate to the function and location of the worker within the business location;
6. Prohibiting gatherings of workers during working hours;
7. Permitting workers to take breaks and meals outside, in their office or personal workspace, or in such other areas where proper social distancing is attainable;
8. Implementing teleworking for all possible workers;
9. Implementing staggered shifts for all possible workers;
10. Holding all meetings and conferences virtually, wherever possible;
11. Delivering intangible services remotely wherever possible;
12. Discouraging workers from using other workers’ phones, desks, offices, or other work tools and equipment;
13. Prohibiting handshaking and other unnecessary person-to-person contact in the workplace;
14. Placing notices that encourage hand hygiene at the entrance to the workplace and in other workplace areas where they are likely to be seen;
15. Suspending the use of personal identification number (PIN) pads, PIN entry devices, electronic signature capture, and any other credit card receipt signature requirements to the extent such suspension is permitted by agreements with credit card companies and credit agencies;
16. Enforcing social distancing of non-cohabitating persons while present on such entity’s leased or owned property;
17. For retailers and service providers, providing for alternative points of sale outside of buildings, including curbside pickup or delivery of products and/or services if an alternative point of sale is permitted under Georgia law;
18. Increasing physical space between workers’ worksites to at least six feet.
19. Providing disinfectant and sanitation products for workers to clean their workspace, equipment, and tools;
People over the age of 65 and any citizens with underlying medical conditions are encouraged to stay home until May 13.
The governor’s office is expected to release more guidelines as his reopening plan progresses.
COVID-19 Update
Published 4-30-2020
Upson County reported 206 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 17 deaths and 15 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 27 from the 179 confirmed cases and increase of six from 11 deaths at noon Tuesday one week earlier. Upson’s infection rate was posted at 78.4 per 10,000 residents.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 98 to 123 during the same time period, with combined deaths up from 16 to 22 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview with 25 resident cases (up one), 22 staff cases (up 15), and 13 resident deaths (up four). Providence reports 50 resident cases (up four), 26 staff cases (up five), and nine resident deaths (up two) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 24,551 (4,670 increase from same time last week) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 4,778 (up 999) hospitalized and 1,020 (up 221) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 52 (24.7 in 10k) and no deaths and eight hospitalized; Pike, 39 (20.7 in 10k) with 2 deaths and six hospitalized; Lamar, 35 (18.1 in 10k) with one death and six hospitalized; Monroe, 23 (8.3 in 10k) with one death and seven hospitalized; Talbot, 22 (35.7 in 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Taylor, 17 (21.4 in 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 14 (11.4 in 10k) and no deaths with two hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 206 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 17 deaths and 15 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 27 from the 179 confirmed cases and increase of six from 11 deaths at noon Tuesday one week earlier. Upson’s infection rate was posted at 78.4 per 10,000 residents.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 98 to 123 during the same time period, with combined deaths up from 16 to 22 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview with 25 resident cases (up one), 22 staff cases (up 15), and 13 resident deaths (up four). Providence reports 50 resident cases (up four), 26 staff cases (up five), and nine resident deaths (up two) from last week.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 24,551 (4,670 increase from same time last week) cases as of noon Tuesday, with 4,778 (up 999) hospitalized and 1,020 (up 221) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 52 (24.7 in 10k) and no deaths and eight hospitalized; Pike, 39 (20.7 in 10k) with 2 deaths and six hospitalized; Lamar, 35 (18.1 in 10k) with one death and six hospitalized; Monroe, 23 (8.3 in 10k) with one death and seven hospitalized; Talbot, 22 (35.7 in 10k) with one death and 11 hospitalized; Taylor, 17 (21.4 in 10k) with two deaths and eight hospitalized; and Crawford, 14 (11.4 in 10k) and no deaths with two hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Upson Regional Medical Center to Participate in COVID-19 Research Study
Published 4-28-2020
Upson Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce it has been approved for participation in a research study to help in the fight against COVID-19. The sponsor of this study is the Mayo Clinic, a not-for-profit academic medical center based in Rochester, Minnesota. Focus of this research is on the therapeutic value of convalescent plasma to treat severe cases of COVID-19 infection.
Patients who have recovered from COVID-19 have developed antibodies in their blood that may be able to combat the virus. Using recovered patients as the donors, plasma with these antibodies is harvested and then given to patients suffering from active and severe COVID-19 virus. There are strict criteria that must be met for both donors and recipients of this plasma.
Participation in the study allows Upson Regional Medical Center to requisition convalescent plasma through the American Red Cross—enough supply for each approved patient. Jeff Tarrant, Upson Regional Medical Center CEO, said, “We are proud to have been approved by the Mayo Clinic as a study site for this research project, and are anxious for our physicians and clinical staff to initiate this therapy for some of our patients. However, without donors, this research really doesn’t go anywhere. We need individuals who have conquered this disease to consider paying it forward by taking a small amount of time to work with the Red Cross and donate plasma.”
Eligible donors must have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovered. Donors cannot still be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, and at least 14 days must have passed since they were first diagnosed. Testing to assure that donors are free of active COVID-19 infection will be performed. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and feel well. The Red Cross has some additional criteria for donors, but these are the main eligibility requirements.
Upson Regional Medical Center physician Dr. Alexander Smolensky stated, “We are proud to be participating with several major academic medical centers in this project. While we do not yet know what the research will show, convalescent plasma transfusions may help some of our sicker patients recover. But there is a shortage of plasma that contains these precious antibodies. We urge anyone in the area who has beaten COVID-19 to consider donation. Your gift of plasma could help others beat this as well.”
Interested donors should reach out to the American Red Cross at www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/plasma-donations-from-recovered-covid-19-patients.html to complete the donor eligibility form. The American Red Cross is now testing recovered donors for COVID-19 antibodies and can accept convalescent plasma donations from antibody positive donors. Call The American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 for more information
Upson Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce it has been approved for participation in a research study to help in the fight against COVID-19. The sponsor of this study is the Mayo Clinic, a not-for-profit academic medical center based in Rochester, Minnesota. Focus of this research is on the therapeutic value of convalescent plasma to treat severe cases of COVID-19 infection.
Patients who have recovered from COVID-19 have developed antibodies in their blood that may be able to combat the virus. Using recovered patients as the donors, plasma with these antibodies is harvested and then given to patients suffering from active and severe COVID-19 virus. There are strict criteria that must be met for both donors and recipients of this plasma.
Participation in the study allows Upson Regional Medical Center to requisition convalescent plasma through the American Red Cross—enough supply for each approved patient. Jeff Tarrant, Upson Regional Medical Center CEO, said, “We are proud to have been approved by the Mayo Clinic as a study site for this research project, and are anxious for our physicians and clinical staff to initiate this therapy for some of our patients. However, without donors, this research really doesn’t go anywhere. We need individuals who have conquered this disease to consider paying it forward by taking a small amount of time to work with the Red Cross and donate plasma.”
Eligible donors must have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovered. Donors cannot still be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, and at least 14 days must have passed since they were first diagnosed. Testing to assure that donors are free of active COVID-19 infection will be performed. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and feel well. The Red Cross has some additional criteria for donors, but these are the main eligibility requirements.
Upson Regional Medical Center physician Dr. Alexander Smolensky stated, “We are proud to be participating with several major academic medical centers in this project. While we do not yet know what the research will show, convalescent plasma transfusions may help some of our sicker patients recover. But there is a shortage of plasma that contains these precious antibodies. We urge anyone in the area who has beaten COVID-19 to consider donation. Your gift of plasma could help others beat this as well.”
Interested donors should reach out to the American Red Cross at www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/plasma-donations-from-recovered-covid-19-patients.html to complete the donor eligibility form. The American Red Cross is now testing recovered donors for COVID-19 antibodies and can accept convalescent plasma donations from antibody positive donors. Call The American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 for more information
COVID-19 Update, Governor Announces Reopening
Updated Data Friday 4-24-2020: Upson County reported 193 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 14 deaths at noon Friday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website
Published 4-23-2020:
Upson County reported 179 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 11 deaths at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 55 from the 124 confirmed cases and increase of eight from three deaths at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 91 to 98 since The Upson Beacon broke the story online last Friday, with combined deaths up from 11 to 16 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview with 24 resident cases (up one), seven staff cases (up two), and nine deaths (up one). Providence reports 46 resident cases (no increase), 21 staff cases (up four), and seven deaths (up four) from the original report Friday.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 19,881 cases as of noon Tuesday, with 3,779 (19.01 percent) hospitalized and 799 (4.02 percent) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 47; Pike, 34 with 2 deaths; Lamar, 29; Talbot, 20 with one death; Monroe, 15 with one death; Crawford, 14; and Taylor, 13 with two deaths.
Governor Announces Reopening
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced a statewide plan Monday afternoon that will allow for the reopening of certain businesses in stages, some starting as early as Friday.
Included in the executive order:
• Medical practices, dental practices, orthodontics practices, optometry practices, physical therapists, ambulatory surgical centers, physicians performing elective surgeries, healthcare institutions, medical facilities and any and all other healthcare-related practices and services that have ceased operations should begin treating patients in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service guidelines and provisions of the executive order.
• April 24 – All gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, estheticians, hair designers, and massage therapists may begin in-person minimum basic operations as defined by the executive order.
Additionally, in his remarks Kemp said:
• April 27 - Subject to social distancing and sanitation mandates, theaters, private social clubs, and restaurant dine-in services will be allowed to reopen.
• Bars, nightclubs, operators of amusement park rides, and live performance venues will remain closed.
• The shelter in place order is still active and will expire on April 30 at 11:59 p.m.
• Medically fragile and elderly Georgians should shelter in place at least through May 13.
• For places of worship, holding in-person services is allowed, but under Phase One guidelines, it must be done in accordance with strict social distancing protocols.
“Based on [Gov. Kemp’s] order, the county will not make any changes to the existing modified operating protocols in advance of April 30,” County Manager Jason Tinsley told The Beacon. “County leadership pays close attention to the governor’s guidance. We are continuously evaluating our current status to ensure we remain in compliance with state mandates.”
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Published 4-23-2020:
Upson County reported 179 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 11 deaths at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 55 from the 124 confirmed cases and increase of eight from three deaths at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at Harborview and Providence nursing homes increased from 91 to 98 since The Upson Beacon broke the story online last Friday, with combined deaths up from 11 to 16 for the same period, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview with 24 resident cases (up one), seven staff cases (up two), and nine deaths (up one). Providence reports 46 resident cases (no increase), 21 staff cases (up four), and seven deaths (up four) from the original report Friday.
Riverside Health & Rehabilitation has reported no positive cases.
Georgia jumped to 19,881 cases as of noon Tuesday, with 3,779 (19.01 percent) hospitalized and 799 (4.02 percent) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 47; Pike, 34 with 2 deaths; Lamar, 29; Talbot, 20 with one death; Monroe, 15 with one death; Crawford, 14; and Taylor, 13 with two deaths.
Governor Announces Reopening
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced a statewide plan Monday afternoon that will allow for the reopening of certain businesses in stages, some starting as early as Friday.
Included in the executive order:
• Medical practices, dental practices, orthodontics practices, optometry practices, physical therapists, ambulatory surgical centers, physicians performing elective surgeries, healthcare institutions, medical facilities and any and all other healthcare-related practices and services that have ceased operations should begin treating patients in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service guidelines and provisions of the executive order.
• April 24 – All gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, estheticians, hair designers, and massage therapists may begin in-person minimum basic operations as defined by the executive order.
Additionally, in his remarks Kemp said:
• April 27 - Subject to social distancing and sanitation mandates, theaters, private social clubs, and restaurant dine-in services will be allowed to reopen.
• Bars, nightclubs, operators of amusement park rides, and live performance venues will remain closed.
• The shelter in place order is still active and will expire on April 30 at 11:59 p.m.
• Medically fragile and elderly Georgians should shelter in place at least through May 13.
• For places of worship, holding in-person services is allowed, but under Phase One guidelines, it must be done in accordance with strict social distancing protocols.
“Based on [Gov. Kemp’s] order, the county will not make any changes to the existing modified operating protocols in advance of April 30,” County Manager Jason Tinsley told The Beacon. “County leadership pays close attention to the governor’s guidance. We are continuously evaluating our current status to ensure we remain in compliance with state mandates.”
The Centers for Disease Control now recommends the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain such as in grocery stores or pharmacies. The CDC stresses the use of masks in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For accurate and reliable information about COVID-19, log on to https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Tornado Damage Victims Need Help
Published 4-23-2020
For the Federal Emergency Management Agency to declare a disaster, statewide damage must meet or exceed $14 million. Although damage was excessive in Upson, Bartow and Murray Counties, collectively the three counties fell short of the necessary amount for federal disaster relief funds.
Upson’s damage is widespread and extensive, and local residents affected by the tornado need help.
A “Disaster Relief Account for Upson County Tornado Victims” has been established by the Upson County Ministerial Association. Anyone wishing to donate, please make checks payable to The Upson Ministerial Association, Tornado Disaster Relief and earmark the donation “for Upson County tornado victims.” Cash and checks will be accepted.
Donations may be mailed to Fellowship Baptist Church, 1165 Hannah's Mill Road, or may be delivered to the church Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please contact the church at 706-647-5814 with any questions.
For those who remain in need of assistance and for those who wish to help, please call 404-535-4490.
For the Federal Emergency Management Agency to declare a disaster, statewide damage must meet or exceed $14 million. Although damage was excessive in Upson, Bartow and Murray Counties, collectively the three counties fell short of the necessary amount for federal disaster relief funds.
Upson’s damage is widespread and extensive, and local residents affected by the tornado need help.
A “Disaster Relief Account for Upson County Tornado Victims” has been established by the Upson County Ministerial Association. Anyone wishing to donate, please make checks payable to The Upson Ministerial Association, Tornado Disaster Relief and earmark the donation “for Upson County tornado victims.” Cash and checks will be accepted.
Donations may be mailed to Fellowship Baptist Church, 1165 Hannah's Mill Road, or may be delivered to the church Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please contact the church at 706-647-5814 with any questions.
For those who remain in need of assistance and for those who wish to help, please call 404-535-4490.
A Community That Cares
Published 4-23-2020
With a recent tornado tearing through Upson County, many are left with the remnants of chaos and destruction. Volunteers have been hard at work participating in the tornado efforts and last Saturday, many came together in groups to clean.
Upson County Emergency Management Agency was present at the Upson County Road Department to dispatch volunteers to various sites. Interim District Attorney Marie Broder and her staff were present and grilled hamburgers for all volunteers. Representatives of the Salvation Army distributed Chick-Fil-A sandwiches.
With a recent tornado tearing through Upson County, many are left with the remnants of chaos and destruction. Volunteers have been hard at work participating in the tornado efforts and last Saturday, many came together in groups to clean.
Upson County Emergency Management Agency was present at the Upson County Road Department to dispatch volunteers to various sites. Interim District Attorney Marie Broder and her staff were present and grilled hamburgers for all volunteers. Representatives of the Salvation Army distributed Chick-Fil-A sandwiches.
COVID-19 Outbreak at Harborview & Providence
Officials from the Georgia Department of Public Health fully dressed in PPE before testing at Providence.
Harborview Health Systems of Thomaston was also tested by officials from the Georgia Department of Public Health.
4-17-2020
A combined total of 91 positive COVID-19 cases and 11 deaths have occurred among residents and staff at two Upson County nursing homes as of 2 p.m. on April 16, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows COVID-19 cases in licensed nursing homes, assisted living communities and personal care homes of 25 beds or more based on data reported by the facilities to the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The breakdown is as follows:
Harborview Health Systems Thomaston
310 Avenue F, Thomaston
•96 total residents
•23 positive resident cases (24% infection rate) with eight (8) deaths
•Five (5) positive cases among staff
Providence Healthcare of Thomaston
1011 South Green Street, Thomaston
•84 total residents
•46 positive resident cases (54.8% infection rate) with three (3) deaths
•17 positive cases among staff
Currently there is no report available for how many tests were performed or how many tests are pending at either facility.
According to the Department of Public Health’s daily status report, Upson County’s total for the corresponding time period, as of April 16, was 143 cases with six deaths.
The Beacon will update the number of cases in both facilities as soon as information becomes available.
A combined total of 91 positive COVID-19 cases and 11 deaths have occurred among residents and staff at two Upson County nursing homes as of 2 p.m. on April 16, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows COVID-19 cases in licensed nursing homes, assisted living communities and personal care homes of 25 beds or more based on data reported by the facilities to the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The breakdown is as follows:
Harborview Health Systems Thomaston
310 Avenue F, Thomaston
•96 total residents
•23 positive resident cases (24% infection rate) with eight (8) deaths
•Five (5) positive cases among staff
Providence Healthcare of Thomaston
1011 South Green Street, Thomaston
•84 total residents
•46 positive resident cases (54.8% infection rate) with three (3) deaths
•17 positive cases among staff
Currently there is no report available for how many tests were performed or how many tests are pending at either facility.
According to the Department of Public Health’s daily status report, Upson County’s total for the corresponding time period, as of April 16, was 143 cases with six deaths.
The Beacon will update the number of cases in both facilities as soon as information becomes available.
And They All Survived...
One Upson County home, now called “The Toto House,” was lifted and moved 60 yards onto Highway 74 East. The Georgia Department of Transportation engineered removal of the house, and Rock Hill Fire Department assisted with cleanup of the roadway, according to reports.
Shown is an aerial view of the
McDaniel home after the tornado.
Published 4-16-2020
By Bridge Turner
A tornado with wind speeds as high as 150 miles per hour ravaged portions of Upson County early Monday, destroying seven homes and damaging at least 58 more, according to reports from local Emergency Management Agency officials.
No injuries were reported by area EMA Director Martha Anne McCarty.
“We are very blessed,” McCarty said Tuesday. “If the path had been as much as a quarter of a mile north of where it was, there would have been catastrophic damage and certainly loss of life.”
Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms reportedly claimed eight lives in Georgia.
The EF3 twister entered the eastern portion of Upson from Talbot County shortly after 2 a.m. Monday and remained on the ground cutting an 11-mile long, half-mile wide path which included the Highway 74 East and Trinity Road Community areas. Lincoln Park escaped major damage, but the tornado jumped Highway 19 South and ripped through Raintree Golf Course.
Weather service radar identified debris as high as 22,000 feet in the air, according to local officials.
One house on Highway 74 East was picked up and moved approximately 60 yards onto the roadway, remaining largely intact. Residents, alerted of the impending storm, were not home at the time. The Georgia Department of Transportation removed the house to clear the highway for traffic.
“True, we have significant damage to a wide area,” McCarty noted. “The tornado track was from the southwest side of the county all the way to Lamar County, about 18 miles. For that track, we have over 200 residents’ structures damaged.”
Anyone needing assistance with tornado damage cleanup, and anyone wishing to volunteer for the cleanup effort, is asked to call 404-535-2877.
“Volunteers can report to the forward operations command post at the Upson County Road Department [on Highway 74 East],” McCarty said. “Come prepared to work with gloves, sturdy shoes, long pants, eye protection and, oh yes, a face mask. COVID-19 precautions must still be taken.”
Property owners needing tarps to cover exposed roofs and buildings should submit a request by email to the county at ema@upsoncountyga.org.
By Bridge Turner
A tornado with wind speeds as high as 150 miles per hour ravaged portions of Upson County early Monday, destroying seven homes and damaging at least 58 more, according to reports from local Emergency Management Agency officials.
No injuries were reported by area EMA Director Martha Anne McCarty.
“We are very blessed,” McCarty said Tuesday. “If the path had been as much as a quarter of a mile north of where it was, there would have been catastrophic damage and certainly loss of life.”
Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms reportedly claimed eight lives in Georgia.
The EF3 twister entered the eastern portion of Upson from Talbot County shortly after 2 a.m. Monday and remained on the ground cutting an 11-mile long, half-mile wide path which included the Highway 74 East and Trinity Road Community areas. Lincoln Park escaped major damage, but the tornado jumped Highway 19 South and ripped through Raintree Golf Course.
Weather service radar identified debris as high as 22,000 feet in the air, according to local officials.
One house on Highway 74 East was picked up and moved approximately 60 yards onto the roadway, remaining largely intact. Residents, alerted of the impending storm, were not home at the time. The Georgia Department of Transportation removed the house to clear the highway for traffic.
“True, we have significant damage to a wide area,” McCarty noted. “The tornado track was from the southwest side of the county all the way to Lamar County, about 18 miles. For that track, we have over 200 residents’ structures damaged.”
Anyone needing assistance with tornado damage cleanup, and anyone wishing to volunteer for the cleanup effort, is asked to call 404-535-2877.
“Volunteers can report to the forward operations command post at the Upson County Road Department [on Highway 74 East],” McCarty said. “Come prepared to work with gloves, sturdy shoes, long pants, eye protection and, oh yes, a face mask. COVID-19 precautions must still be taken.”
Property owners needing tarps to cover exposed roofs and buildings should submit a request by email to the county at ema@upsoncountyga.org.
COVID-19 Cases Hit Triple Digits
Three Deaths Reported
Published 4-16-2020
Upson County reported 124 confirmed COVID-19 cases with three deaths at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 96 from the 28 confirmed cases and no deaths at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Georgia jumped to 14,223 cases as of noon Tuesday, with 2,769 (19.47 percent) hospitalized and 501 (3.52 percent) deaths. Both percentages show slight decreases.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 24; Lamar, 20; Pike, 20; Monroe, 13 with one death; Talbot, 10 with one death; Taylor, nine with two deaths; and Crawford, eight. Meriwether, Lamar, Pike and Crawford reported no deaths as of noon Tuesday.
The entire state remains under a “stay at home” order signed by Gov. Brian Kemp, and county officials have extended Upson’s shelter in place modified operating plan through April 30.
Upson County reported 124 confirmed COVID-19 cases with three deaths at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 96 from the 28 confirmed cases and no deaths at noon Tuesday one week earlier.
Georgia jumped to 14,223 cases as of noon Tuesday, with 2,769 (19.47 percent) hospitalized and 501 (3.52 percent) deaths. Both percentages show slight decreases.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 24; Lamar, 20; Pike, 20; Monroe, 13 with one death; Talbot, 10 with one death; Taylor, nine with two deaths; and Crawford, eight. Meriwether, Lamar, Pike and Crawford reported no deaths as of noon Tuesday.
The entire state remains under a “stay at home” order signed by Gov. Brian Kemp, and county officials have extended Upson’s shelter in place modified operating plan through April 30.
Coronavirus at 2 Nursing Homes
Published 4-16-2020
The Upson Beacon confirmed last week that positive cases of COVID-19 existed at two local nursing homes, and Georgia National Guard infection control teams were dispatched to disinfect at least one facility.
Reportedly, Harborview and Providence Healthcare of Thomaston have cases among both residents and healthcare providers, and at least one requested assistance from the Georgia Department of Public Health and Upson Emergency Management Agency. The number of resident cases had not been released as of April 14, and employee information is confidential.
Photos were obtained of Georgia Guardsmen conducting activities at Providence.
The Beacon contacted administrators at both facilities and received no comment from Harborview officials. Providence administrator Tom Williams issued a statement acknowledging confirmed resident cases, but declined sharing further information, citing patient privacy laws.
“Our staff and residents are following preventative actions as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services,” Williams included in his statement. “We are restricting visitors from entering our facility and cancelling all group activities and communal dining within the building until the virus has been eradicated. We are also actively screening residents and staff for respiratory symptoms.”
Williams’ complete statement can be found on the Beacon website and Facebook page.
The Upson Beacon confirmed last week that positive cases of COVID-19 existed at two local nursing homes, and Georgia National Guard infection control teams were dispatched to disinfect at least one facility.
Reportedly, Harborview and Providence Healthcare of Thomaston have cases among both residents and healthcare providers, and at least one requested assistance from the Georgia Department of Public Health and Upson Emergency Management Agency. The number of resident cases had not been released as of April 14, and employee information is confidential.
Photos were obtained of Georgia Guardsmen conducting activities at Providence.
The Beacon contacted administrators at both facilities and received no comment from Harborview officials. Providence administrator Tom Williams issued a statement acknowledging confirmed resident cases, but declined sharing further information, citing patient privacy laws.
“Our staff and residents are following preventative actions as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services,” Williams included in his statement. “We are restricting visitors from entering our facility and cancelling all group activities and communal dining within the building until the virus has been eradicated. We are also actively screening residents and staff for respiratory symptoms.”
Williams’ complete statement can be found on the Beacon website and Facebook page.
Expanded Testing For COVID-19 In Georgia
Revised Testing Criteria and Increased Number of Test Site
| dph_news_release_-_expanding_covid-19_testing_in_georgia.pdf |
| covid-19_testing_-_direct_patient_lines.pdf |
Published 4-16-2020
The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is increasing the number of specimen collection sites statewide for COVID-19 testing, and is revising the current testing criteria to accommodate more testing of Georgia residents.
Effective immediately, all symptomatic individuals will be eligible for COVID-19 testing. Health care workers, first responders, law enforcement and long-term care facility residents and staff will still be prioritized for testing regardless of whether they are or are not symptomatic.
View the above documents for further information.
The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is increasing the number of specimen collection sites statewide for COVID-19 testing, and is revising the current testing criteria to accommodate more testing of Georgia residents.
Effective immediately, all symptomatic individuals will be eligible for COVID-19 testing. Health care workers, first responders, law enforcement and long-term care facility residents and staff will still be prioritized for testing regardless of whether they are or are not symptomatic.
View the above documents for further information.
Upson Spikes to 51 COVID-19 Cases, One Death
Stay in place continues
Published 4-9-2020, updated 4-11-2020
Upson County reported 51 confirmed COVID-19 cases with one death at noon Saturday, April 11, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase from the five confirmed cases reported last Tuesday, March 31.
Georgia jumped to 12,159 cases as of noon Saturday, with 2479 (20.39 percent) hospitalized and 428 (3.52 percent) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 22; Lamar, 15; Monroe, 12; Pike, 15; Talbot, nine; Taylor, seven; and Crawford, three. Monroe, Talbot and Taylor each reported deaths as of noon Saturday: Monroe with one, Talbot with one and Taylor with 2.
The entire state remains under a “stay at home” order signed by Gov. Brian Kemp last week.
The following story by Jeff Amy and Russ Bynum is, in part, reprinted from Associated Press information located on the U.S. News & World Report website:
Georgia’s governor published his order telling people to stay at home Thursday as known coronavirus infections in the state rose past 5,400 and officials blamed the virus for record-shattering unemployment claims.
Gov. Brian Kemp's order took effect at 6 p.m. Friday and will last through at least April 13. It came after days of pressure from local officials and widespread criticism of Kemp's claimed rationale that he was acting because federal officials had just confirmed that the virus is being spread by seemingly healthy people who are infected but have no symptoms such as fever or cough.
The sobering new figures on the pandemic’s toll in Georgia came just a month after Kemp announced the state’s first confirmed infections March 2.
At least 176 deaths in Georgia have been linked to the new virus, the state Department of Public Health reported. And more than 1,100 have been hospitalized since Kemp announced March 2 that officials had confirmed Georgia’s first two coronavirus infections.
Kemp's order supersedes all local orders issued earlier, providing uniformity that many local officials sought.
The state police and Georgia National Guard are among the agencies to provide resources to enforce the order. Violations are misdemeanors and officials are “supposed to take reasonable steps” before arresting anyone or writing a ticket.
“When Georgians listen to the guidance provided and follow the orders issued, they are actively joining the fight against this deadly disease,” Kemp told reporters as he announced the decision Wednesday.
The order says people must stay home unless they are providing or receiving food, household supplies, medical supplies or services, sanitation, safety services or essential home maintenance. It also says people can exercise outside as long as they stay six feet apart, but they're not supposed to have visitors
A wide range of critical infrastructure businesses as designated by the federal government can stay open, including laundromats, dry cleaners, home construction, hardware stores, defense plants, banks, sawmills and news outlets.
The measure limits nonessential businesses to the “necessary activities to maintain the value” of the business, but says they can stay open to the public subject to those restrictions.
Both essential and nonessential businesses are directed to screen workers for signs of illness, implement teleworking and staggered shifts for all possible workers, and increase the distance between work stations to at least six feet.
It closes all dine-in restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters and other entertainment venues. However, the sale of guns and ammunition is expressly allowed to continue, as is food for takeout and delivery.
The measure does not expressly bar attendance at worship services, although Kemp spokesman Cody Hall said they would have to follow the same strictures regarding distancing and health checks as any business.
Meanwhile, unemployment claims processed in Georgia during the last full week of March rose to nearly 134,000, an increase more than 10 times greater than the number filed the week before. The Georgia Department of Labor said Thursday the staggering number set a new record for the most claims ever processed in one week.
The previous record was more than 41,000 in January 2009.
Kemp had resisted following other states ordering residents to stay home, preferring to leave the decision to local governments. The governor had also said he was concerned far-reaching shutdown orders could inflict more damage to Georgia's already suffering economy.
Kemp said [a week ago] Wednesday that "individuals could have been infecting people before they ever felt bad.” …Experts have been warning for at least two months that infected people can spread the coronavirus even if they have no symptoms.
However, new research on asymptomatic transmission of the virus caused the federal government to change how it defines the risk of infection to Americans on Wednesday. The new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says anyone exposed to the disease can be a carrier.
Upson County reported 51 confirmed COVID-19 cases with one death at noon Saturday, April 11, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase from the five confirmed cases reported last Tuesday, March 31.
Georgia jumped to 12,159 cases as of noon Saturday, with 2479 (20.39 percent) hospitalized and 428 (3.52 percent) deaths.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 22; Lamar, 15; Monroe, 12; Pike, 15; Talbot, nine; Taylor, seven; and Crawford, three. Monroe, Talbot and Taylor each reported deaths as of noon Saturday: Monroe with one, Talbot with one and Taylor with 2.
The entire state remains under a “stay at home” order signed by Gov. Brian Kemp last week.
The following story by Jeff Amy and Russ Bynum is, in part, reprinted from Associated Press information located on the U.S. News & World Report website:
Georgia’s governor published his order telling people to stay at home Thursday as known coronavirus infections in the state rose past 5,400 and officials blamed the virus for record-shattering unemployment claims.
Gov. Brian Kemp's order took effect at 6 p.m. Friday and will last through at least April 13. It came after days of pressure from local officials and widespread criticism of Kemp's claimed rationale that he was acting because federal officials had just confirmed that the virus is being spread by seemingly healthy people who are infected but have no symptoms such as fever or cough.
The sobering new figures on the pandemic’s toll in Georgia came just a month after Kemp announced the state’s first confirmed infections March 2.
At least 176 deaths in Georgia have been linked to the new virus, the state Department of Public Health reported. And more than 1,100 have been hospitalized since Kemp announced March 2 that officials had confirmed Georgia’s first two coronavirus infections.
Kemp's order supersedes all local orders issued earlier, providing uniformity that many local officials sought.
The state police and Georgia National Guard are among the agencies to provide resources to enforce the order. Violations are misdemeanors and officials are “supposed to take reasonable steps” before arresting anyone or writing a ticket.
“When Georgians listen to the guidance provided and follow the orders issued, they are actively joining the fight against this deadly disease,” Kemp told reporters as he announced the decision Wednesday.
The order says people must stay home unless they are providing or receiving food, household supplies, medical supplies or services, sanitation, safety services or essential home maintenance. It also says people can exercise outside as long as they stay six feet apart, but they're not supposed to have visitors
A wide range of critical infrastructure businesses as designated by the federal government can stay open, including laundromats, dry cleaners, home construction, hardware stores, defense plants, banks, sawmills and news outlets.
The measure limits nonessential businesses to the “necessary activities to maintain the value” of the business, but says they can stay open to the public subject to those restrictions.
Both essential and nonessential businesses are directed to screen workers for signs of illness, implement teleworking and staggered shifts for all possible workers, and increase the distance between work stations to at least six feet.
It closes all dine-in restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters and other entertainment venues. However, the sale of guns and ammunition is expressly allowed to continue, as is food for takeout and delivery.
The measure does not expressly bar attendance at worship services, although Kemp spokesman Cody Hall said they would have to follow the same strictures regarding distancing and health checks as any business.
Meanwhile, unemployment claims processed in Georgia during the last full week of March rose to nearly 134,000, an increase more than 10 times greater than the number filed the week before. The Georgia Department of Labor said Thursday the staggering number set a new record for the most claims ever processed in one week.
The previous record was more than 41,000 in January 2009.
Kemp had resisted following other states ordering residents to stay home, preferring to leave the decision to local governments. The governor had also said he was concerned far-reaching shutdown orders could inflict more damage to Georgia's already suffering economy.
Kemp said [a week ago] Wednesday that "individuals could have been infecting people before they ever felt bad.” …Experts have been warning for at least two months that infected people can spread the coronavirus even if they have no symptoms.
However, new research on asymptomatic transmission of the virus caused the federal government to change how it defines the risk of infection to Americans on Wednesday. The new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says anyone exposed to the disease can be a carrier.
Mask Makers: Protecting the Community
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Shown above: Sgts. Allen and Lawrence are shown sporting donated masks.
Shown above is a completed bundle of masks, sewn by Jessica Danehower.
Pictured above is an example of adaptive devices which attach to the back of masks to ease tension and rubbing around the ears and face. Local participants are now sewing these devices in addition to masks.
Published 4-9-2020
By Luke Haney
In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, face masks and various safety supplies have run short across the country. Locally, several people have stepped up to the plate to sew masks for essential workers in the community. According to the Centers of Disease Control, cloth face coverings can help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Many women in the community, as well as surrounding counties, have begun creating different types of masks for various essential workers. Thomaston Fire Department, Upson volunteer fire departments, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department, All department of Upson Regional Medical Center, doctors offices and every local nursing home have been provided with protective face masks.
Masks, like the ones Stacye DeLoach has been sewing, are to be used as covers for the n95 masks. The purpose of the covers is to protect the n95 masks, which are in high demand and hard to obtain. Another form of masks being made in the community are cone-shaped and have an opening for removable filters. These are used as a stand-alone mask.
Deirdra Carpenter says that Stacye DeLoach was the inspiration behind the Mask Makers. She said “[We] decided to form a group to help make masks for local healthcare providers, first responders and it’s turned into something so amazing, now they are working on any essential businesses that may be in need that requests a masks.”
“They started off getting material from Stacye, who made more than 400 masks herself,” stated a member of the Mask Makers. “Deirdre has made more than 350. [The group members] all contribute something to help them make sure everyone who needs a mask gets one.”
Sewers contributing to the project include Pam Hill, Chrystie Pitts, Stacye DeLoach, Deirdre Cochran, Michelle Thigpen, Debbie Legg, Robyn Johnson, Martha Butler, Martha Anne McCarty, Wendy Ferguson, Leslie Hockman, Denise Sanford, Jessica Russell, Chasity Gross, Merrill Roan, Michelle Anne Goode, Mandi Hadley, Kristin Musselwhite, Peggy Perry, Ashley Johnson, Terry Anderson, Susan Reddick, Jessica Danehower, Kim Martin, Laura Wainwright, Melissa Kent, Becky Berry, Michelle Goode and more. They have collectively given away hundreds of masks to law enforcement, medical staff and essential workers. Contact any of the contributors on facebook for more information.
Thomaston Mills donated thousands of yards of elastic and fabric, as well as fabric filters. Woody Heath also donated two bolts of fabric to the project.
According to the CDC, “cloth face masks should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include multiple layers of fabric, allow for breathing without restriction and be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.”
Find more information about the effectiveness of face masks and how to create your own at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html.
By Luke Haney
In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, face masks and various safety supplies have run short across the country. Locally, several people have stepped up to the plate to sew masks for essential workers in the community. According to the Centers of Disease Control, cloth face coverings can help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Many women in the community, as well as surrounding counties, have begun creating different types of masks for various essential workers. Thomaston Fire Department, Upson volunteer fire departments, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department, All department of Upson Regional Medical Center, doctors offices and every local nursing home have been provided with protective face masks.
Masks, like the ones Stacye DeLoach has been sewing, are to be used as covers for the n95 masks. The purpose of the covers is to protect the n95 masks, which are in high demand and hard to obtain. Another form of masks being made in the community are cone-shaped and have an opening for removable filters. These are used as a stand-alone mask.
Deirdra Carpenter says that Stacye DeLoach was the inspiration behind the Mask Makers. She said “[We] decided to form a group to help make masks for local healthcare providers, first responders and it’s turned into something so amazing, now they are working on any essential businesses that may be in need that requests a masks.”
“They started off getting material from Stacye, who made more than 400 masks herself,” stated a member of the Mask Makers. “Deirdre has made more than 350. [The group members] all contribute something to help them make sure everyone who needs a mask gets one.”
Sewers contributing to the project include Pam Hill, Chrystie Pitts, Stacye DeLoach, Deirdre Cochran, Michelle Thigpen, Debbie Legg, Robyn Johnson, Martha Butler, Martha Anne McCarty, Wendy Ferguson, Leslie Hockman, Denise Sanford, Jessica Russell, Chasity Gross, Merrill Roan, Michelle Anne Goode, Mandi Hadley, Kristin Musselwhite, Peggy Perry, Ashley Johnson, Terry Anderson, Susan Reddick, Jessica Danehower, Kim Martin, Laura Wainwright, Melissa Kent, Becky Berry, Michelle Goode and more. They have collectively given away hundreds of masks to law enforcement, medical staff and essential workers. Contact any of the contributors on facebook for more information.
Thomaston Mills donated thousands of yards of elastic and fabric, as well as fabric filters. Woody Heath also donated two bolts of fabric to the project.
According to the CDC, “cloth face masks should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include multiple layers of fabric, allow for breathing without restriction and be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.”
Find more information about the effectiveness of face masks and how to create your own at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html.
Positive COVID-19 Cases at Two Nursing Homes in Upson County
Published 4-9-2020
The Upson Beacon confirmed Wednesday that there are positive cases of COVID-19 among healthcare providers and residents at two local nursing homes in Upson County, Providence Healthcare of Thomaston and Harborview Thomaston. There are also suspected cases with results pending.
Reportedly, both facilities have resident cases and at least one has requested assistance from the Georgia Department of Public Health and Upson Emergency Management Agency, who are engaged and assisting. The number of resident cases has not been released as of April 9. Healthcare providers are employees, and that information will be kept confidential.
The Beacon contacted administrators at Providence and Harborview. Charlene Wright, Harborview’s administrator, declined comment. Providence Healthcare’s administrator Tom Williams issued the following statement:
“At Providence Healthcare resident safety is a top priority. This virus is especially dangerous to our population – older adults with underlying health conditions – so this is a critical issue that requires our immediate attention. We value the care we provide to all our residents and are doing everything we can to ensure we stop the spread of this within our facility.
“We currently have confirmed positive COVID-19 resident cases and are in very close communication with local and state health officials to ensure we are taking the appropriate steps at this time.
“Our staff and residents are following preventative actions as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). We are restricting visitors from entering our facility and cancelling all group activities and communal dining within the building until the virus has been eradicated. We are also actively screening residents and staff for respiratory symptoms.
“Due to patient privacy laws, we are unable to share any further specific information about the confirmed case(s) in our facility, but we have notified their immediate family members/guardians.
“Our staff and residents truly appreciate the support and prayers of local community during this pandemic. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure the safety and happiness of those we serve as we battle the spread of COVID-19.”
Sincerely,
Tom Williams, Administrator
Providence Healthcare of Thomaston
The Beacon will update this information as it becomes available.
The Upson Beacon confirmed Wednesday that there are positive cases of COVID-19 among healthcare providers and residents at two local nursing homes in Upson County, Providence Healthcare of Thomaston and Harborview Thomaston. There are also suspected cases with results pending.
Reportedly, both facilities have resident cases and at least one has requested assistance from the Georgia Department of Public Health and Upson Emergency Management Agency, who are engaged and assisting. The number of resident cases has not been released as of April 9. Healthcare providers are employees, and that information will be kept confidential.
The Beacon contacted administrators at Providence and Harborview. Charlene Wright, Harborview’s administrator, declined comment. Providence Healthcare’s administrator Tom Williams issued the following statement:
“At Providence Healthcare resident safety is a top priority. This virus is especially dangerous to our population – older adults with underlying health conditions – so this is a critical issue that requires our immediate attention. We value the care we provide to all our residents and are doing everything we can to ensure we stop the spread of this within our facility.
“We currently have confirmed positive COVID-19 resident cases and are in very close communication with local and state health officials to ensure we are taking the appropriate steps at this time.
“Our staff and residents are following preventative actions as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). We are restricting visitors from entering our facility and cancelling all group activities and communal dining within the building until the virus has been eradicated. We are also actively screening residents and staff for respiratory symptoms.
“Due to patient privacy laws, we are unable to share any further specific information about the confirmed case(s) in our facility, but we have notified their immediate family members/guardians.
“Our staff and residents truly appreciate the support and prayers of local community during this pandemic. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure the safety and happiness of those we serve as we battle the spread of COVID-19.”
Sincerely,
Tom Williams, Administrator
Providence Healthcare of Thomaston
The Beacon will update this information as it becomes available.
Statewide Shelter in Place Handout
| statewide_shelter_in_place_handout.pdf |
Published 4-2-2020
Governor Kemp’s Executive Order if effective starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 13, 2020. Press the above link to see the full Statewide Shelter in Place Handout.
Governor Kemp’s Executive Order if effective starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020 through 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 13, 2020. Press the above link to see the full Statewide Shelter in Place Handout.
City Declares Local State of Emergency
City Manager Russell Thompson, standing far left, addresses the city council (L-R) Don Greathouse, Jeff Middlebrooks, Mayor J.D. Stallings, Ryan Tucker, Lakeitha Reeves, and Doug Head during last week’s called meeting to address COVID-19 procedures.
Published 4-2-2020
By Bridge Turner
Mayor J.D. Stallings, with the support of the Thomaston City Council, signed a resolution and accompanying ordinance Friday, March 27 declaring a local state of emergency, citing potential health risks associated with the COVID-19 virus.
The decision followed a called meeting of city officials in which council members were seated six feet apart on the stage of the auditorium adjacent to the Government Complex. Earlier that day, the Upson Beacon received information that the first case of coronavirus had been confirmed in Upson County.
As of noon Tuesday, the number of cases had risen to five.
“I want to set the tone by saying that I really, really, strongly believe, as everybody has said, it’s going to get worse before it gets better,” Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head said. “I had a conversation with Jeff Tarrant, CEO of the hospital, and… heard him say, ‘I would ask that if you’re going to do something, don’t wait’.”
Head reminded council members that Gov. Brian Kemp said, “It’s all in the people’s hands,” referring to precautions including “social distancing,” and expressed his belief that local action is necessary in addition to supporting federal and state mandates.
“Atlanta critical care units are pretty much full now,” Head stated. “So what’s going to happen is they’re going to begin to look for secondary locations to put those people, and we’re on that list... It’s not just people in Upson County… We should do what we can to raise the level of awareness.”
In addition to supporting recommendations and mandates from the federal and state governments, the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control deemed “vital to the health of the nation,” city officials added the following:
“The city council hereby declares a public health state of emergency within the city… which will remain in force and effect until April 6… unless extended by further action of mayor and city council. Unless otherwise specified in this ordinance, the provisions of this ordinance shall remain in full force and effect for the duration of the declared emergency.
“…there shall be no public gatherings (the organized gathering or assembly of 10 or more persons at a specific location) on any property owned or controlled by the city (any park, public square, public space, playground, recreational area, or similar place of public gathering)… but nothing herein shall prohibit individuals or families from using sidewalks or designated pedestrian areas of parks for walking or other exercise if they are not participating in an organized gathering.
“Restaurants and other eating and dining establishments where food is served must cease offering dine-in services but may continue preparing and offering food to customers via delivery, drive-thru or takeout services… if a restaurant is licensed to sell beer and wine for on-premise consumption, such restaurant, during the effective dates of this ordinance only, shall be authorized to sell unopened bottles or cans of beer or wine for takeout consumption off premises.
“All other establishments… such as grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses which remain open during the emergency must post signage on entrance doors informing consumers to maintain at least six feet of personal distance between themselves and others and shall not allow more than 10 people into such establishment at any one time if such social distancing cannot be maintained.
“All public and private gatherings of more than 10 people occurring outside of a household or living unit are prohibited. Nothing in this ordinance, however, prohibits the gathering of individuals for the purposes of carrying on business certified as ‘essential’ by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency pursuant to O.C.G.A. 38-3-58 or designated by the governor as ‘critical infrastructure’ or the provision of medical or health services.
“All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this declaration are hereby suspended during the effective dates of this declaration (or any extension thereof) and the terms and provisions of this declaration shall prevail.”
Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson told council members he was not opposed to the ordinance, but could not guarantee how efficiently it would be enforced.
“The hope and goal are that the majority of people will comply without having enforcement,” Richardson said. “I have no objection to you passing this ordinance. I just want to be on the record [saying] I don’t want there to be any false expectations from you on our ability to enforce it.
“I will, to the best of my ability, enforce what you pass,” the chief concluded. “We’ll do the best we can.”
By Bridge Turner
Mayor J.D. Stallings, with the support of the Thomaston City Council, signed a resolution and accompanying ordinance Friday, March 27 declaring a local state of emergency, citing potential health risks associated with the COVID-19 virus.
The decision followed a called meeting of city officials in which council members were seated six feet apart on the stage of the auditorium adjacent to the Government Complex. Earlier that day, the Upson Beacon received information that the first case of coronavirus had been confirmed in Upson County.
As of noon Tuesday, the number of cases had risen to five.
“I want to set the tone by saying that I really, really, strongly believe, as everybody has said, it’s going to get worse before it gets better,” Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head said. “I had a conversation with Jeff Tarrant, CEO of the hospital, and… heard him say, ‘I would ask that if you’re going to do something, don’t wait’.”
Head reminded council members that Gov. Brian Kemp said, “It’s all in the people’s hands,” referring to precautions including “social distancing,” and expressed his belief that local action is necessary in addition to supporting federal and state mandates.
“Atlanta critical care units are pretty much full now,” Head stated. “So what’s going to happen is they’re going to begin to look for secondary locations to put those people, and we’re on that list... It’s not just people in Upson County… We should do what we can to raise the level of awareness.”
In addition to supporting recommendations and mandates from the federal and state governments, the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control deemed “vital to the health of the nation,” city officials added the following:
“The city council hereby declares a public health state of emergency within the city… which will remain in force and effect until April 6… unless extended by further action of mayor and city council. Unless otherwise specified in this ordinance, the provisions of this ordinance shall remain in full force and effect for the duration of the declared emergency.
“…there shall be no public gatherings (the organized gathering or assembly of 10 or more persons at a specific location) on any property owned or controlled by the city (any park, public square, public space, playground, recreational area, or similar place of public gathering)… but nothing herein shall prohibit individuals or families from using sidewalks or designated pedestrian areas of parks for walking or other exercise if they are not participating in an organized gathering.
“Restaurants and other eating and dining establishments where food is served must cease offering dine-in services but may continue preparing and offering food to customers via delivery, drive-thru or takeout services… if a restaurant is licensed to sell beer and wine for on-premise consumption, such restaurant, during the effective dates of this ordinance only, shall be authorized to sell unopened bottles or cans of beer or wine for takeout consumption off premises.
“All other establishments… such as grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses which remain open during the emergency must post signage on entrance doors informing consumers to maintain at least six feet of personal distance between themselves and others and shall not allow more than 10 people into such establishment at any one time if such social distancing cannot be maintained.
“All public and private gatherings of more than 10 people occurring outside of a household or living unit are prohibited. Nothing in this ordinance, however, prohibits the gathering of individuals for the purposes of carrying on business certified as ‘essential’ by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency pursuant to O.C.G.A. 38-3-58 or designated by the governor as ‘critical infrastructure’ or the provision of medical or health services.
“All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this declaration are hereby suspended during the effective dates of this declaration (or any extension thereof) and the terms and provisions of this declaration shall prevail.”
Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson told council members he was not opposed to the ordinance, but could not guarantee how efficiently it would be enforced.
“The hope and goal are that the majority of people will comply without having enforcement,” Richardson said. “I have no objection to you passing this ordinance. I just want to be on the record [saying] I don’t want there to be any false expectations from you on our ability to enforce it.
“I will, to the best of my ability, enforce what you pass,” the chief concluded. “We’ll do the best we can.”
Heroes Are Everywhere
When You’re On Your Own, They are there for you
Published 4-2-2020
With “non-essential” employees being told to stay home, many workers are asked to keep things running smoothly. A congregation of vehicles gathered in the lower parking lot at Upson Regional Medical Center Monday night to flash lights and play uplifting music to honor URMC staff who are working harder each day to manage the COVID-19 threat.
Parking lot gatherings were planned for the entire week, and will continue from 6:45 to 7 p.m. through Friday. Participants are asked to be parked in the lot by 6:40 pm. and tune all radios to Fun 101.1 FM.
After seeing more than 100 cars participating the first night, URMC CEO Jeff Tarrant commented, “It was very moving.” With lights flashing and music blaring, many children held signs and waved out vehicle windows to acknowledge health care workers.
Photos of local heroes are featured across the top of most pages of the 4-2-2020 edition of The Upson Beacon to highlight those who continue to work each day to provide a safe, well-functioning community.
With “non-essential” employees being told to stay home, many workers are asked to keep things running smoothly. A congregation of vehicles gathered in the lower parking lot at Upson Regional Medical Center Monday night to flash lights and play uplifting music to honor URMC staff who are working harder each day to manage the COVID-19 threat.
Parking lot gatherings were planned for the entire week, and will continue from 6:45 to 7 p.m. through Friday. Participants are asked to be parked in the lot by 6:40 pm. and tune all radios to Fun 101.1 FM.
After seeing more than 100 cars participating the first night, URMC CEO Jeff Tarrant commented, “It was very moving.” With lights flashing and music blaring, many children held signs and waved out vehicle windows to acknowledge health care workers.
Photos of local heroes are featured across the top of most pages of the 4-2-2020 edition of The Upson Beacon to highlight those who continue to work each day to provide a safe, well-functioning community.
COVID-19 Updated Published 3-26-2020 in The Upson Beacon
URMC Announces COVID-19 Safety Measures
Upson Regional Medical Center is taking the proper steps to keep patients, visitors, staff and community safe.
Visitor restrictions were recently updated to limit visitors to one family member or support person per patient. Public entrances have been reduced to two. The main entrance allows access for the public and employees from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends. The rear or café entrance is for employee badge access only.
The emergency room entrance is available 24/7, but visitors are encouraged to use the main entrance when possible. Physical therapy patients are still able to utilize the physical therapy entrance directly, but will have no access to the main hospital from this entrance.
All individuals entering the hospital are being screened for exposure history, symptoms and temperature. Upson’s physician clinics have also implemented screening measures to help reduce the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
Hospital leadership is closely monitoring supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) on a real time basis, and holds a huddle at the start of each day to discuss federal, state, and local status and to prioritize needs. Some short-term wins on the horizon include availability of virtual primary care physician office visits which will enable patients to consult with local physicians from the comfort of their own homes, as well as local capabilities for COVID-19 testing.
Information regarding the virtual primary care visits is expected to be available by the end of this week. Technology and approval to begin local testing for COVID-19 in the Upson laboratory is expected in April.
People are encouraged to practice good handwashing techniques and abide by recommendations for eliminating group activities and social distancing.
“Experts tell us the only way to stop the spread at this time is to eliminate the ability of this virus to move from person to person,” said URMC CEO Jeff Tarrant. “Georgia has not yet issued a stay at home order other than for certain groups of people. But on behalf of the hundreds of dedicated healthcare heroes at Upson - folks who leave the safety of their homes and report to work each day simply to take care of those in need - we ask you to please stay home if you can. The work done by our staff and all in healthcare professions is remarkable. We look forward to the day we can all take a deep breath, celebrate, and honor these heroes for the gifts they give to all of us.”
For real-time, up-to-date information on the latest news from Upson Regional Medical Center, visit www.urmc.org/covid-19-updates.
Sprewell Bluff Access Limited, Other Parks Closed to Public
Tax & Tag Office Extends Closure through April 10
Upson County Government has announced the closure of the civic center and all county parks through April 6, with the exception of Sprewell Bluff Park, which will remain open with limited access. Visit upsoncountyga.org/Facebook for up-to-date information on all county parks and recreation programs and facilities.
Upson County Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain has announced that the tax and tag office will remain closed to the public through April 10, possibly longer, until it is determined safe to open.
Staff is available to handle all transactions by phone, and to issue temporary operating permits for 30 days and renew tags which will be mailed to the customer same day. The permit automatically updates in the state system at time of transaction to show the permit is valid, even though not yet on the vehicle. The same is true for any decal renewed by phone or online.
The public is encouraged to call the office at 706-647-8931 or to use online services for tag renewal or property tax payments. Also, during this time, all debit/credit card transactions by phone are not charged a convenience fee.
“Despite the hardships the COVID-19 outbreak has caused for our customers, this is only temporary,” Chastain said. “We look forward to helping our customers the best we can until we open for business as usual.”
Ingles, Walmart Offering ‘Senior Only’ Shopping
Ingles and Walmart have announced dedicated shopping hours for seniors and residents with compromised immune systems.
Walmart “senior times” are from 6-7 a.m. every Tuesday through April 28, and Ingles’ dedicated hours are 7-8 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays until further notice.
“At Ingles, we care deeply about the communities we serve and believe that by working together, we can all assist in helping others in our community as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve,” according to a company statement. “One of the ways we can all help is by making the shopping experience safer for those that are most vulnerable at this time.”
“We ask that other customers try to avoid shopping during the hour, so our seniors can shop in a less crowded environment,” Ingles officials said. “Thank you for your consideration and thank you for shopping Ingles.”
Ingles store hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. For the latest updates, visit www.ingles-markets.com/covid19.
“To better support customers age 60 and up, our stores will host a special shopping hour from 6-7 a.m. through April 28,” according to a Walmart press release. “It will start one hour before stores open to the public, and pharmacies will be available during this time as well.”
Vision centers will also be open to help with emergency and essential needs only, according to Walmart personnel.
Upson Regional Medical Center is taking the proper steps to keep patients, visitors, staff and community safe.
Visitor restrictions were recently updated to limit visitors to one family member or support person per patient. Public entrances have been reduced to two. The main entrance allows access for the public and employees from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends. The rear or café entrance is for employee badge access only.
The emergency room entrance is available 24/7, but visitors are encouraged to use the main entrance when possible. Physical therapy patients are still able to utilize the physical therapy entrance directly, but will have no access to the main hospital from this entrance.
All individuals entering the hospital are being screened for exposure history, symptoms and temperature. Upson’s physician clinics have also implemented screening measures to help reduce the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
Hospital leadership is closely monitoring supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) on a real time basis, and holds a huddle at the start of each day to discuss federal, state, and local status and to prioritize needs. Some short-term wins on the horizon include availability of virtual primary care physician office visits which will enable patients to consult with local physicians from the comfort of their own homes, as well as local capabilities for COVID-19 testing.
Information regarding the virtual primary care visits is expected to be available by the end of this week. Technology and approval to begin local testing for COVID-19 in the Upson laboratory is expected in April.
People are encouraged to practice good handwashing techniques and abide by recommendations for eliminating group activities and social distancing.
“Experts tell us the only way to stop the spread at this time is to eliminate the ability of this virus to move from person to person,” said URMC CEO Jeff Tarrant. “Georgia has not yet issued a stay at home order other than for certain groups of people. But on behalf of the hundreds of dedicated healthcare heroes at Upson - folks who leave the safety of their homes and report to work each day simply to take care of those in need - we ask you to please stay home if you can. The work done by our staff and all in healthcare professions is remarkable. We look forward to the day we can all take a deep breath, celebrate, and honor these heroes for the gifts they give to all of us.”
For real-time, up-to-date information on the latest news from Upson Regional Medical Center, visit www.urmc.org/covid-19-updates.
Sprewell Bluff Access Limited, Other Parks Closed to Public
Tax & Tag Office Extends Closure through April 10
Upson County Government has announced the closure of the civic center and all county parks through April 6, with the exception of Sprewell Bluff Park, which will remain open with limited access. Visit upsoncountyga.org/Facebook for up-to-date information on all county parks and recreation programs and facilities.
Upson County Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain has announced that the tax and tag office will remain closed to the public through April 10, possibly longer, until it is determined safe to open.
Staff is available to handle all transactions by phone, and to issue temporary operating permits for 30 days and renew tags which will be mailed to the customer same day. The permit automatically updates in the state system at time of transaction to show the permit is valid, even though not yet on the vehicle. The same is true for any decal renewed by phone or online.
The public is encouraged to call the office at 706-647-8931 or to use online services for tag renewal or property tax payments. Also, during this time, all debit/credit card transactions by phone are not charged a convenience fee.
“Despite the hardships the COVID-19 outbreak has caused for our customers, this is only temporary,” Chastain said. “We look forward to helping our customers the best we can until we open for business as usual.”
Ingles, Walmart Offering ‘Senior Only’ Shopping
Ingles and Walmart have announced dedicated shopping hours for seniors and residents with compromised immune systems.
Walmart “senior times” are from 6-7 a.m. every Tuesday through April 28, and Ingles’ dedicated hours are 7-8 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays until further notice.
“At Ingles, we care deeply about the communities we serve and believe that by working together, we can all assist in helping others in our community as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve,” according to a company statement. “One of the ways we can all help is by making the shopping experience safer for those that are most vulnerable at this time.”
“We ask that other customers try to avoid shopping during the hour, so our seniors can shop in a less crowded environment,” Ingles officials said. “Thank you for your consideration and thank you for shopping Ingles.”
Ingles store hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. For the latest updates, visit www.ingles-markets.com/covid19.
“To better support customers age 60 and up, our stores will host a special shopping hour from 6-7 a.m. through April 28,” according to a Walmart press release. “It will start one hour before stores open to the public, and pharmacies will be available during this time as well.”
Vision centers will also be open to help with emergency and essential needs only, according to Walmart personnel.
Mayor Updates City Action amid Virus Concerns
Published 3-26-2020
City government offices are closed to the general public and will remain accessible by appointment only through the end of March, according to a recent press release.
Staff is available by telephone or email to address any questions or provide information concerning the provision of municipal services. Citizens are urged to contact City Hall to schedule appointments, if necessary, and additional information will be released as applicable.
Regarding city utilities, customers should continue to abide by all the policies and procedures of the city regarding service. Payments will continue to be received by mail and at the city drop box located near the drive-thru at 106 East Lee Street. In addition, online payments may be made at https://thomastonga.governmentwindow.com/payer_login.html. Effective through the end of March, the city will waive the transaction fee associated with use of the online service.
Anyone with questions about accounts should contact customer service at 706-647-6633.
“Please be assured the city will continue to provide municipal services, including but not limited to, police protection, fire protection, public works, water and sewer treatment and distribution, electrical services, and sanitation,” according to Mayor J.D. Stallings’ statement.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to our city’s wellbeing and safety,” he continued. “Your cooperation and support are appreciated as we make decisions based on what is in the best interest of everyone within the community. The city will continue to communicate our ongoing efforts regarding COVID-19.”
For further information regarding prevention, please visit https://dph.georgia.gov/.
See the mayor’s open letter to Thomaston residents, Page 3 of the print edition of The Upson Beacon.
City government offices are closed to the general public and will remain accessible by appointment only through the end of March, according to a recent press release.
Staff is available by telephone or email to address any questions or provide information concerning the provision of municipal services. Citizens are urged to contact City Hall to schedule appointments, if necessary, and additional information will be released as applicable.
Regarding city utilities, customers should continue to abide by all the policies and procedures of the city regarding service. Payments will continue to be received by mail and at the city drop box located near the drive-thru at 106 East Lee Street. In addition, online payments may be made at https://thomastonga.governmentwindow.com/payer_login.html. Effective through the end of March, the city will waive the transaction fee associated with use of the online service.
Anyone with questions about accounts should contact customer service at 706-647-6633.
“Please be assured the city will continue to provide municipal services, including but not limited to, police protection, fire protection, public works, water and sewer treatment and distribution, electrical services, and sanitation,” according to Mayor J.D. Stallings’ statement.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to our city’s wellbeing and safety,” he continued. “Your cooperation and support are appreciated as we make decisions based on what is in the best interest of everyone within the community. The city will continue to communicate our ongoing efforts regarding COVID-19.”
For further information regarding prevention, please visit https://dph.georgia.gov/.
See the mayor’s open letter to Thomaston residents, Page 3 of the print edition of The Upson Beacon.
Governor Orders Statewide Closure of Bars
Published 3-26-2020
Gov. Brian Kemp has ordered the closure of bars and nightclubs through April 6 as part of the state’s effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, according to an announcement Monday.
Gatherings of more than 10 people, unless the people can be kept six feet apart, also are banned. The Georgia Department of Public Health will be authorized to close any business for noncompliance.
Kemp will work with the Department of Public Health to issue an executive order to require sheltering in place or quarantining for high-risk populations. Included are those who live in long-term care facilities, have chronic lung disease, are undergoing cancer treatment, or have a positive COVID-19 test, are assumed to have it, or have been exposed.
To address a shortage of health care workers, graduate nurses who have not yet taken their nursing exams will be able to seek a temporary license through the Georgia Board of Nursing, Kemp said.
In March and April, about one million Georgians who receive SNAP benefits will receive an additional $100 in benefits. The average monthly SNAP benefit for a Georgia household is $225 and the program has seen an influx of applicants, according to Kemp.
Gov. Brian Kemp has ordered the closure of bars and nightclubs through April 6 as part of the state’s effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, according to an announcement Monday.
Gatherings of more than 10 people, unless the people can be kept six feet apart, also are banned. The Georgia Department of Public Health will be authorized to close any business for noncompliance.
Kemp will work with the Department of Public Health to issue an executive order to require sheltering in place or quarantining for high-risk populations. Included are those who live in long-term care facilities, have chronic lung disease, are undergoing cancer treatment, or have a positive COVID-19 test, are assumed to have it, or have been exposed.
To address a shortage of health care workers, graduate nurses who have not yet taken their nursing exams will be able to seek a temporary license through the Georgia Board of Nursing, Kemp said.
In March and April, about one million Georgians who receive SNAP benefits will receive an additional $100 in benefits. The average monthly SNAP benefit for a Georgia household is $225 and the program has seen an influx of applicants, according to Kemp.
Coronavirus COVID-19 Local Closures & Updates
Published 3-19-2020
Health Concerns Push Presidential Preference Primary to May 19
Amid concerns for safety of poll workers and the public at large, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced Saturday that the Presidential Preference Primary Election would be postponed and would coincide with the State Primary Election to be held May 19.
All ballots that have been cast during advance voting and all absentee mail ballots that are returned will be counted on May 19.
More information will be posted on election websites as information becomes available.
Amid concerns for safety of poll workers and the public at large, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced Saturday that the Presidential Preference Primary Election would be postponed and would coincide with the State Primary Election to be held May 19.
All ballots that have been cast during advance voting and all absentee mail ballots that are returned will be counted on May 19.
More information will be posted on election websites as information becomes available.
COVID-19 INFORMATION & PREPAREDNESS
In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Thomaston-Upson County Schools have closed until March 31 and City of Thomaston and Upson County offices are limiting services and personnel.
District 4 public health officials for Upson, along with Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding and Troup counties, reported 13 confirmed cases of Covid-19, or coronavirus, in its service area as of noon Tuesday. Counties reporting confirmed cases include Coweta (3), Fayette (5), Henry (2), Lamar (1) and Troup (2). Georgia Department of Public Health’s website is updated daily at noon.
According to Upson Emergency Management Director Martha Anne McCarty, “The State of Georgia has a new COVID-19 hotline. Please DO NOT show up unannounced at an emergency room or health care facility. If you believe that you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, please contact your primary care doctor, an urgent care clinic, or your local federally qualified health care center. Hotline: (844) 442-2681. Again, please DO NOT show up unannounced at an emergency room or health care facility.”
LOCAL INFORMATION
*The Thomaston-Upson Board of Education released updated information on 3-20-2020*
"Hello, UL students and families.
I want to thank you for your hard work, patience, and flexibility as we complete our first full week of mandated school closures and home learning. I know there have been challenges and that obstacles remain, but we are all working together to support our students and our community! You have been amazing, and I truly appreciate your efforts! Below, you will find important information updates:
Closure dates:
Governor Kemp has mandated that all Georgia schools close through the end of this month. Our Spring Break is scheduled for April 6-10, 2020. In consultation with the TU Board of Education, we have made the decision not to return to school April 1-3 (the 3 days prior to Spring Break). Therefore, Thomaston-Upson Schools will remain closed through April 12. While our anticipated return date is Monday, April 13, this date is still subject to change in the event of additional state or federal mandates.
Spring Break:
No instruction or meal distribution will take place during Spring Break, April 6-10. Please carefully consider your actions during this break and continue to follow any DPH and CDC guidelines designed to keep you and your families safe.
School Meals & Curriculum Distribution:
Approximately 1100 children and youth received meals during week 1 of the school closure. We anticipate that even more may come out for week 2. In an effort to protect the health and well-being of those staff members assisting with meal distribution, all sites will be made drive-through only, UNLESS the student has no transportation and must walk to the site. Walkers will be encouraged to “grab and go” in order to protect themselves and others. Paper copies of the week’s curriculum packet will be distributed at all sites. The Thomaston Police Dept. will provide assistance for traffic control/direction at The Greatest Generation Park. Our next meal distribution will be Tuesday, March 24, from 11:30 AM – 1 PM WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. REMINDER: The student or students must be present in order to receive the meal package. (Limit 1 meal package per child)
District and school administrators continue to meet and discuss ways to provide for the needs of our students during this time. As we receive new information and make decisions, we will keep you up to date and informed.
I know that some of you will have questions about items not addressed in this information. In some cases, decisions cannot yet be made due to uncertainty of the spread of COVID-19 within the U.S. We are taking the situation one day at a time. This pandemic is something that none of us ever expected to face, and we are navigating the unknown together. Please know that we are here to support you in any possible way. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your teacher or school principal. We will get through this, and we will be stronger and more united in the end. May you and your families remain safe and well throughout this time."
Upson Offices:
Upson County Senior Center
All events at the Thomaston-Upson Senior Center scheduled for the month of March will be rescheduled or cancelled. The facility WILL NOT offer meal service and will be closed to all members of the public. This closure was effective as of Wednesday, March 18. The Senior Center will continue to provide at-home meal delivery without interruption. Seniors may also arrange to pick up meals onsite. For questions please call 706-647-1607.
Thomaston-Upson County Civic Center
All events scheduled for the remainder of March at the civic center will be rescheduled or cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns, according to a joint press release from the City of Thomaston and Upson County.
Upson County Clerk of Superior Court
All jury trials have been cancelled and the Grand Jury has been postponed to May 4. Teresa Harper, clerk of Superior Court, said the clerk’s office will be open and all employees are working regular hours. You may contact the Clerk of Superior Court by phone at 706-538-2343 or visit www.upsoncountyga.org for specific department contacts and updates.
Upson County Magistrate Court
Upson County Magistrate Court will offer basic essential civil service to include warrants, search warrants and first appearances as needed. The magistrate office will be open for call-in information and is asking everyone to limit walk-ins for their own protection, as well as the staff.
Upson County Probate Court
Due to the state of emergency that we are currently under, the court systems of Georgia are also under a judicial emergency until April 13. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §38-3-62, this judicial emergency limits what the probate court can do. The probate court staff will be in the office, but the public’s access will be extremely limited.
The Upson County Probate office will not be performing non-essential functions during this judicial emergency time period. Essential functions would include: emergency or permanent guardianship/conservatorship petitions; orders to apprehend; jail cases - specifically to limit overpopulation of the jail; marriage licensing - only to those that have a marriage date set for the near future.
Traffic cases that have been scheduled for court will be continued to a later date. Probate officials will send out notices to all those that have been previously scheduled for court. Any citations with dates scheduled to pay fines during this judicial emergency have been extended to May 4.
Weapons carry license applications will not be processed during this judicial emergency. If the expiration date happens to fall during this judicial emergency, an extension date will be granted. Please call the probate office for specific questions about individual weapons carry licenses.
The probate staff will be available to answer any questions over the phone. Please call with your inquiries rather than come to the office. Coming to the probate office in person will likely be a wasted trip as the probate staff will only be performing essential functions.
**Upson County Sheriff’s Office and Jail, updated 3/20/2020
IN RESPONSE TO THE ONGOING COVID-19 (CORONA VIRUS) PANDEMIC, THE UPSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS MAKING TEMPORARY CHANGES TO THE WAY WE RESPOND TO SOME NON-EMERGENCY CALLS, IN ORDER TO HELP SAFEGUARD THE HEALTH OF THE PUBLIC, AS WELL AS OUR STAFF.
PLEASE DO NOT COME TO THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE TO FILE A REPORT. IF YOU NEED TO FILE A REPORT FOR AN INCIDENT THAT IS NOT IN PROGRESS, NON-EMERGENCY, OR DOES NOT REQUIRE THAT A DEPUTY MEET WITH YOU OR RECOVER EVIDENCE, PLEASE CALL OUR NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER, 706-646-7912, AND WE WILL HAVE A DEPUTY CONTACT YOU. AS ALWAYS, IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 9-1-1.
IF YOU NEED A COPY OF A REPORT, PLEASE CALL OUR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE AT 706-646-7902. WE WILL BE HAPPY TO PROVIDE COPIES BY MAIL.
WE REMAIN COMMITTED TO PROVIDING PROMPT, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE THROUGHOUT THIS CRISIS. WE APPRECIATE YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY CAUSE
Upson County Tax Commissioner’s Office
The Upson County Tax Commissioner’s Office will be closed to the public and all walk-in customers during the 10-day period of March 18-27. Staff will continue to work handling all aspects of the office including telephone calls, mailings, online tag renewals, online tax payments, etc. Please call the office at 706-647-8931 for any issues.
Payments in the form of check or money order for property taxes or tag renewals may be mailed to P.O. Box 409, Thomaston, GA 30286. Tag renewals and all tax receipts will be remitted by mail to taxpayer during this period.
All taxpayers may conduct their business through on-line services. The DOR and this office offer a number of motor vehicle and tax-related services online, without the need of in-person interactions. Motor Vehicle: www.eservices.drives.ga.gov. Services available include tag renewals, duplicate registration, cancel registration, TAVT estimator, pay insurance fines.
For title work: email title or bill of sale along with proof of insurance and driver’s license to: achastain@upsoncountyga.org to receive a 30-day temporary permit that will be mailed to the new owner. Contact office before temporary expires for further information.
Any late penalties associated with tag renewals during this period will be waived. However, fines associated with insurance lapse CANNOT be waived. Fines associated with insurance lapse can be paid online.
Property taxes: www.upsoncountyga.org/202/Office-of-the-Tax-Commissioner (pay property tax bill). Services include search and pay taxes, print property tax bill, and other general info.
For further information: contact the Upson County Tax Commissioner’s Office at (phone) 706-647-8931, (fax) 706-647-5568 or (email) achastain@upsoncountyga.org.
City Offices:
Thomaston Police Department
The Thomaston Police Department will have additional patrols in neighborhoods and businesses. The department office will operate under normal hours and offer full services.
Thomaston Fire Department
The Thomaston Fire Department is limiting visitors to only pre-approved appointments and emergencies. No walk-in traffic will be allowed until further notice.
Thomaston Trash Pick-up
Effective immediately, due to the recent changes relating to COVID-19 in our state, GFL, under the direction of the City of Thomaston, will suspend backdoor cart service until further notice for all residents in the City of Thomaston. All city residents are required to place their trash cans at the curb on the normal trash pickup day. Silvertown and Mill Village residents are required to place their trash carts at the back-alley curb. Services for disabled residents will resume as normal. If you have any questions, please call the City of Thomaston offices at (706) 647-6633 or (706) 647-4242 or contact the GFL at (706) 647-8490.
This action is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our area by eliminating cart swapping at houses, prevent contact with residents at their homes, and ensure timely trash pickup in the City of Thomaston.
***CITY UPDATE AS OF 3-20-2020
CITY PARKS- Although the City of Thomaston’s parks are still open to the public during regular hours (all park facilities will close at dark), we urge all citizens to use the precautionary measures that have been handed down by the President of the United States. Specifically, we urge our citizens to avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people while visiting City Parks. While we try to keep our playground equipment safe, we cannot guarantee that it is always sanitary due to the volume of participants we have at our outside facilities. Be smart, and be safe.
RESTAURANTS - The most recent correspondence received from the District Health Director - Georgia Department of Health, recommends facilities who decide to continue in house dining be strongly encouraged to remove at least half of their seats in an effort to limit the number of customers to ensure social distancing. It is strongly encouraged by health department officials that restaurants go to drive-thru, delivery, or outside service only. At this time, there is no local mandate on this restriction as this would put a strain on these businesses. We do ask that the general public help out by using these facilities in a safe and cautious manner, utilizing all appropriate safety precautions and guidelines.
If we are to control this outbreak, we must all take some personal responsibility, practical accountability, and come together as a community with well-intentioned actions. We have all continuously heard the appropriate actions we should be doing like washing our hands and covering our faces when we sneeze or cough. Folks, this is something we should do all the time.
CHURCHES/SOCIAL GATHERINGS - Limit yourselves to groups and gatherings of 10 or less. Churches, funeral services, social events, weddings, and other events should consider rescheduling, limiting numbers, or provide adequate safety measures in accordance with presidential suggested guidelines. In addition, the Governor has released the following statements:
“It’s going to be the community that stops this,” “…And the way to do that is to adhere to the directives that are coming out of Washington, the CDC, Governor’s Office, and Georgia Department of Public Health.”
“We’ve asked them (churches) when possible and practical to not hold [in-person] services, but to go online, now, if they’re dead-set on being together make sure their facilities are clean, people are spreading out in their seating, and they’re limiting their social interaction. If someone is feeling sick urge them to stay home. Call your doctor before going to their office or the emergency room.”
We know these disruptions are going to be difficult for many of our local businesses. The Federal Government has passed and are passing several programs to help businesses and citizens during these times. We will share and help in any way to assist with these programs as more details are rolled out.
The best advice you can give yourself now is to use common sense. If we all act as though you’ve tested positive for COVID-19, we can control the outbreak. Practice social distancing. If you can stay at home, stay at home as much as possible. If you must get out, just use common sense. Don’t look to Social Media posts from your Aunt Caren who knows a person whose third cousin works with someone that caught it. Trust creditable sites like the CDC, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html , and the Georgia Department of Public Health, https://dph.georgia.gov/.
We need to be cautious and act responsibly, but we also don’t need to go into full blown end of the world mass hysteria either. Prepare yourself by purchasing items that you need if you do become sick. Two thousand rolls of toilet paper, and a million bottles of water is not considered reasonable. Save some items for other people. We are a community and we should be looking out for each other. Also, we have a lot of older citizens in our community that may not have family or others that can check in on them. Be neighborly and call to see if they might could use a helping hand during these times.
We understand some people may be worried about the situation because of the unknown. We know these are unprecedented times, and are trying to do everything to keep everyone safe. At the same time, we will continue in the provision of services that you expect from our city. Since everyone’s schedule has changed and many have more free time with all the cancelations and disruptions, the best thing for everyone to do is to spend more time in prayer. We should rely more on our Faith and listen to God not only during the difficult times, but all the time. If we do, we will know the best decisions in all matters of our lives.
BE SMART- BE SAFE
God Bless our Community, Our Great State, and these United States of America
YOUR Mayor,
John David “J.D.” Stallings
Hospital, Churches, Financial Institutions, Nursing Homes:
Upson Regional Medical Center
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging communities across the country to prepare for the possibility of coronavirus (COVID-19) becoming widespread. As the virus continues to spread, there will likely be more cases that occur close to home.
Upson Regional Medical Center asks travel questions of every patient coming into the facility, and is paying close attention to the travel histories of patients who have been to an area where COVID-19 exists.
“Upson Regional Medical Center is using the guidance of the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health to prepare our community. Our hospital is ready to take care of our residents and provide the best care possible as we face this challenge,” said Daniel McBride, director of infection prevention and occupational health.
It's best to stay home if you are not well. If you feel you need medical attention, call your doctor or emergency care center for guidance. As always, if you have a true emergency, go to the nearest emergency care center.
See the following links for further information on COVID-19:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus
Churches
Several local churches will have services online and videos on Facebook. Please check with your church or house of worship for times and dates.
Financial Institutions
Colony Bank’s lobby will be closed with the exception of pre-arranged appointments for loan closings. The drive-thru will be open for deposits, withdrawals and banking transactions.
United Bank will operate under normal business hours, and both the lobby as well as drive-thru will be open.
SouthCrest Bank will operate under normal business hours, and both the lobby and drive-thru will be open.
West Central Georgia Bank will operate under normal business hours, and both the lobby and drive-thru will be open.
People's Bank of Georgia will operate by appointment only during normal business hours.
Nursing Homes
Local nursing homes - Harborview, Providence and Riverside - are all closed to visitors until further notice. West Village Retirement asks that family members limit their visits during this time.
Other Important Notices:
Chamber of Commerce
Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce office and welcome center will be closed until further notice. The annual Chamber Business Open golf tournament has been postponed, to be announced at a later date. Staff will answer phone calls and emails. To reach the chamber, please visit the website at thomastongachamber.com or call 706-647-9686.
Republican County Convention Notice
All counties will hold their conventions this Saturday, March 21, to elect delegates and alternates to each congressional district and state convention. The county conventions cannot be cancelled and will take place on a pro forma basis, and we prefer that delegates not attend. Anyone wishing to be elected as a district or state delegate, please submit information by email to ------------. We require your name, address, email, telephone and birthdate. If you have any questions, please let us know. Please be aware that if you ask to be a delegate, you are expected to attend the convention you have signed up to attend, and there will be a fee for attending that is paid directly to the district or state, depending on which you choose to attend. All regular monthly meetings are cancelled until further notice.
Pine Mountain Regional Libraries
All Pine Mountain Regional Libraries will be closed to the public until Wednesday, April 1. During this time, no late fees will accrue on currently checked out items. Digital resources like RbDigital and eRead Kids will not be affected and will remain available to use.
The Upson Beacon Limits Office Hours
The Upson Beacon will join and support the effort to reduce potential COVID-19 viral spread by limiting office hours to 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, closed Wednesdays, through April 2.
Submission and payments may be dropped through the mail slot of the door at 106 East Gordon Street 24 hours a day, and submissions may be emailed to dlord@upsonbeacon.com. Credit and debit card payments may be made by calling the office at 706-646-2382.
Meanwhile, the Beacon staff will continue to update its readers and residents of Thomaston and Upson County with the most accurate and updated information possible concerning coronavirus and its impact on the community. Please visit The Upson Beacon Facebook page or upsonbeacon.com.
In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Thomaston-Upson County Schools have closed until March 31 and City of Thomaston and Upson County offices are limiting services and personnel.
District 4 public health officials for Upson, along with Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding and Troup counties, reported 13 confirmed cases of Covid-19, or coronavirus, in its service area as of noon Tuesday. Counties reporting confirmed cases include Coweta (3), Fayette (5), Henry (2), Lamar (1) and Troup (2). Georgia Department of Public Health’s website is updated daily at noon.
According to Upson Emergency Management Director Martha Anne McCarty, “The State of Georgia has a new COVID-19 hotline. Please DO NOT show up unannounced at an emergency room or health care facility. If you believe that you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, please contact your primary care doctor, an urgent care clinic, or your local federally qualified health care center. Hotline: (844) 442-2681. Again, please DO NOT show up unannounced at an emergency room or health care facility.”
LOCAL INFORMATION
*The Thomaston-Upson Board of Education released updated information on 3-20-2020*
"Hello, UL students and families.
I want to thank you for your hard work, patience, and flexibility as we complete our first full week of mandated school closures and home learning. I know there have been challenges and that obstacles remain, but we are all working together to support our students and our community! You have been amazing, and I truly appreciate your efforts! Below, you will find important information updates:
Closure dates:
Governor Kemp has mandated that all Georgia schools close through the end of this month. Our Spring Break is scheduled for April 6-10, 2020. In consultation with the TU Board of Education, we have made the decision not to return to school April 1-3 (the 3 days prior to Spring Break). Therefore, Thomaston-Upson Schools will remain closed through April 12. While our anticipated return date is Monday, April 13, this date is still subject to change in the event of additional state or federal mandates.
Spring Break:
No instruction or meal distribution will take place during Spring Break, April 6-10. Please carefully consider your actions during this break and continue to follow any DPH and CDC guidelines designed to keep you and your families safe.
School Meals & Curriculum Distribution:
Approximately 1100 children and youth received meals during week 1 of the school closure. We anticipate that even more may come out for week 2. In an effort to protect the health and well-being of those staff members assisting with meal distribution, all sites will be made drive-through only, UNLESS the student has no transportation and must walk to the site. Walkers will be encouraged to “grab and go” in order to protect themselves and others. Paper copies of the week’s curriculum packet will be distributed at all sites. The Thomaston Police Dept. will provide assistance for traffic control/direction at The Greatest Generation Park. Our next meal distribution will be Tuesday, March 24, from 11:30 AM – 1 PM WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. REMINDER: The student or students must be present in order to receive the meal package. (Limit 1 meal package per child)
District and school administrators continue to meet and discuss ways to provide for the needs of our students during this time. As we receive new information and make decisions, we will keep you up to date and informed.
I know that some of you will have questions about items not addressed in this information. In some cases, decisions cannot yet be made due to uncertainty of the spread of COVID-19 within the U.S. We are taking the situation one day at a time. This pandemic is something that none of us ever expected to face, and we are navigating the unknown together. Please know that we are here to support you in any possible way. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your teacher or school principal. We will get through this, and we will be stronger and more united in the end. May you and your families remain safe and well throughout this time."
Upson Offices:
Upson County Senior Center
All events at the Thomaston-Upson Senior Center scheduled for the month of March will be rescheduled or cancelled. The facility WILL NOT offer meal service and will be closed to all members of the public. This closure was effective as of Wednesday, March 18. The Senior Center will continue to provide at-home meal delivery without interruption. Seniors may also arrange to pick up meals onsite. For questions please call 706-647-1607.
Thomaston-Upson County Civic Center
All events scheduled for the remainder of March at the civic center will be rescheduled or cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns, according to a joint press release from the City of Thomaston and Upson County.
Upson County Clerk of Superior Court
All jury trials have been cancelled and the Grand Jury has been postponed to May 4. Teresa Harper, clerk of Superior Court, said the clerk’s office will be open and all employees are working regular hours. You may contact the Clerk of Superior Court by phone at 706-538-2343 or visit www.upsoncountyga.org for specific department contacts and updates.
Upson County Magistrate Court
Upson County Magistrate Court will offer basic essential civil service to include warrants, search warrants and first appearances as needed. The magistrate office will be open for call-in information and is asking everyone to limit walk-ins for their own protection, as well as the staff.
Upson County Probate Court
Due to the state of emergency that we are currently under, the court systems of Georgia are also under a judicial emergency until April 13. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §38-3-62, this judicial emergency limits what the probate court can do. The probate court staff will be in the office, but the public’s access will be extremely limited.
The Upson County Probate office will not be performing non-essential functions during this judicial emergency time period. Essential functions would include: emergency or permanent guardianship/conservatorship petitions; orders to apprehend; jail cases - specifically to limit overpopulation of the jail; marriage licensing - only to those that have a marriage date set for the near future.
Traffic cases that have been scheduled for court will be continued to a later date. Probate officials will send out notices to all those that have been previously scheduled for court. Any citations with dates scheduled to pay fines during this judicial emergency have been extended to May 4.
Weapons carry license applications will not be processed during this judicial emergency. If the expiration date happens to fall during this judicial emergency, an extension date will be granted. Please call the probate office for specific questions about individual weapons carry licenses.
The probate staff will be available to answer any questions over the phone. Please call with your inquiries rather than come to the office. Coming to the probate office in person will likely be a wasted trip as the probate staff will only be performing essential functions.
**Upson County Sheriff’s Office and Jail, updated 3/20/2020
IN RESPONSE TO THE ONGOING COVID-19 (CORONA VIRUS) PANDEMIC, THE UPSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS MAKING TEMPORARY CHANGES TO THE WAY WE RESPOND TO SOME NON-EMERGENCY CALLS, IN ORDER TO HELP SAFEGUARD THE HEALTH OF THE PUBLIC, AS WELL AS OUR STAFF.
PLEASE DO NOT COME TO THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE TO FILE A REPORT. IF YOU NEED TO FILE A REPORT FOR AN INCIDENT THAT IS NOT IN PROGRESS, NON-EMERGENCY, OR DOES NOT REQUIRE THAT A DEPUTY MEET WITH YOU OR RECOVER EVIDENCE, PLEASE CALL OUR NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER, 706-646-7912, AND WE WILL HAVE A DEPUTY CONTACT YOU. AS ALWAYS, IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 9-1-1.
IF YOU NEED A COPY OF A REPORT, PLEASE CALL OUR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE AT 706-646-7902. WE WILL BE HAPPY TO PROVIDE COPIES BY MAIL.
WE REMAIN COMMITTED TO PROVIDING PROMPT, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE THROUGHOUT THIS CRISIS. WE APPRECIATE YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY CAUSE
Upson County Tax Commissioner’s Office
The Upson County Tax Commissioner’s Office will be closed to the public and all walk-in customers during the 10-day period of March 18-27. Staff will continue to work handling all aspects of the office including telephone calls, mailings, online tag renewals, online tax payments, etc. Please call the office at 706-647-8931 for any issues.
Payments in the form of check or money order for property taxes or tag renewals may be mailed to P.O. Box 409, Thomaston, GA 30286. Tag renewals and all tax receipts will be remitted by mail to taxpayer during this period.
All taxpayers may conduct their business through on-line services. The DOR and this office offer a number of motor vehicle and tax-related services online, without the need of in-person interactions. Motor Vehicle: www.eservices.drives.ga.gov. Services available include tag renewals, duplicate registration, cancel registration, TAVT estimator, pay insurance fines.
For title work: email title or bill of sale along with proof of insurance and driver’s license to: achastain@upsoncountyga.org to receive a 30-day temporary permit that will be mailed to the new owner. Contact office before temporary expires for further information.
Any late penalties associated with tag renewals during this period will be waived. However, fines associated with insurance lapse CANNOT be waived. Fines associated with insurance lapse can be paid online.
Property taxes: www.upsoncountyga.org/202/Office-of-the-Tax-Commissioner (pay property tax bill). Services include search and pay taxes, print property tax bill, and other general info.
For further information: contact the Upson County Tax Commissioner’s Office at (phone) 706-647-8931, (fax) 706-647-5568 or (email) achastain@upsoncountyga.org.
City Offices:
Thomaston Police Department
The Thomaston Police Department will have additional patrols in neighborhoods and businesses. The department office will operate under normal hours and offer full services.
Thomaston Fire Department
The Thomaston Fire Department is limiting visitors to only pre-approved appointments and emergencies. No walk-in traffic will be allowed until further notice.
Thomaston Trash Pick-up
Effective immediately, due to the recent changes relating to COVID-19 in our state, GFL, under the direction of the City of Thomaston, will suspend backdoor cart service until further notice for all residents in the City of Thomaston. All city residents are required to place their trash cans at the curb on the normal trash pickup day. Silvertown and Mill Village residents are required to place their trash carts at the back-alley curb. Services for disabled residents will resume as normal. If you have any questions, please call the City of Thomaston offices at (706) 647-6633 or (706) 647-4242 or contact the GFL at (706) 647-8490.
This action is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our area by eliminating cart swapping at houses, prevent contact with residents at their homes, and ensure timely trash pickup in the City of Thomaston.
***CITY UPDATE AS OF 3-20-2020
CITY PARKS- Although the City of Thomaston’s parks are still open to the public during regular hours (all park facilities will close at dark), we urge all citizens to use the precautionary measures that have been handed down by the President of the United States. Specifically, we urge our citizens to avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people while visiting City Parks. While we try to keep our playground equipment safe, we cannot guarantee that it is always sanitary due to the volume of participants we have at our outside facilities. Be smart, and be safe.
RESTAURANTS - The most recent correspondence received from the District Health Director - Georgia Department of Health, recommends facilities who decide to continue in house dining be strongly encouraged to remove at least half of their seats in an effort to limit the number of customers to ensure social distancing. It is strongly encouraged by health department officials that restaurants go to drive-thru, delivery, or outside service only. At this time, there is no local mandate on this restriction as this would put a strain on these businesses. We do ask that the general public help out by using these facilities in a safe and cautious manner, utilizing all appropriate safety precautions and guidelines.
If we are to control this outbreak, we must all take some personal responsibility, practical accountability, and come together as a community with well-intentioned actions. We have all continuously heard the appropriate actions we should be doing like washing our hands and covering our faces when we sneeze or cough. Folks, this is something we should do all the time.
CHURCHES/SOCIAL GATHERINGS - Limit yourselves to groups and gatherings of 10 or less. Churches, funeral services, social events, weddings, and other events should consider rescheduling, limiting numbers, or provide adequate safety measures in accordance with presidential suggested guidelines. In addition, the Governor has released the following statements:
“It’s going to be the community that stops this,” “…And the way to do that is to adhere to the directives that are coming out of Washington, the CDC, Governor’s Office, and Georgia Department of Public Health.”
“We’ve asked them (churches) when possible and practical to not hold [in-person] services, but to go online, now, if they’re dead-set on being together make sure their facilities are clean, people are spreading out in their seating, and they’re limiting their social interaction. If someone is feeling sick urge them to stay home. Call your doctor before going to their office or the emergency room.”
We know these disruptions are going to be difficult for many of our local businesses. The Federal Government has passed and are passing several programs to help businesses and citizens during these times. We will share and help in any way to assist with these programs as more details are rolled out.
The best advice you can give yourself now is to use common sense. If we all act as though you’ve tested positive for COVID-19, we can control the outbreak. Practice social distancing. If you can stay at home, stay at home as much as possible. If you must get out, just use common sense. Don’t look to Social Media posts from your Aunt Caren who knows a person whose third cousin works with someone that caught it. Trust creditable sites like the CDC, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html , and the Georgia Department of Public Health, https://dph.georgia.gov/.
We need to be cautious and act responsibly, but we also don’t need to go into full blown end of the world mass hysteria either. Prepare yourself by purchasing items that you need if you do become sick. Two thousand rolls of toilet paper, and a million bottles of water is not considered reasonable. Save some items for other people. We are a community and we should be looking out for each other. Also, we have a lot of older citizens in our community that may not have family or others that can check in on them. Be neighborly and call to see if they might could use a helping hand during these times.
We understand some people may be worried about the situation because of the unknown. We know these are unprecedented times, and are trying to do everything to keep everyone safe. At the same time, we will continue in the provision of services that you expect from our city. Since everyone’s schedule has changed and many have more free time with all the cancelations and disruptions, the best thing for everyone to do is to spend more time in prayer. We should rely more on our Faith and listen to God not only during the difficult times, but all the time. If we do, we will know the best decisions in all matters of our lives.
BE SMART- BE SAFE
God Bless our Community, Our Great State, and these United States of America
YOUR Mayor,
John David “J.D.” Stallings
Hospital, Churches, Financial Institutions, Nursing Homes:
Upson Regional Medical Center
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging communities across the country to prepare for the possibility of coronavirus (COVID-19) becoming widespread. As the virus continues to spread, there will likely be more cases that occur close to home.
Upson Regional Medical Center asks travel questions of every patient coming into the facility, and is paying close attention to the travel histories of patients who have been to an area where COVID-19 exists.
“Upson Regional Medical Center is using the guidance of the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health to prepare our community. Our hospital is ready to take care of our residents and provide the best care possible as we face this challenge,” said Daniel McBride, director of infection prevention and occupational health.
It's best to stay home if you are not well. If you feel you need medical attention, call your doctor or emergency care center for guidance. As always, if you have a true emergency, go to the nearest emergency care center.
See the following links for further information on COVID-19:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus
Churches
Several local churches will have services online and videos on Facebook. Please check with your church or house of worship for times and dates.
Financial Institutions
Colony Bank’s lobby will be closed with the exception of pre-arranged appointments for loan closings. The drive-thru will be open for deposits, withdrawals and banking transactions.
United Bank will operate under normal business hours, and both the lobby as well as drive-thru will be open.
SouthCrest Bank will operate under normal business hours, and both the lobby and drive-thru will be open.
West Central Georgia Bank will operate under normal business hours, and both the lobby and drive-thru will be open.
People's Bank of Georgia will operate by appointment only during normal business hours.
Nursing Homes
Local nursing homes - Harborview, Providence and Riverside - are all closed to visitors until further notice. West Village Retirement asks that family members limit their visits during this time.
Other Important Notices:
Chamber of Commerce
Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce office and welcome center will be closed until further notice. The annual Chamber Business Open golf tournament has been postponed, to be announced at a later date. Staff will answer phone calls and emails. To reach the chamber, please visit the website at thomastongachamber.com or call 706-647-9686.
Republican County Convention Notice
All counties will hold their conventions this Saturday, March 21, to elect delegates and alternates to each congressional district and state convention. The county conventions cannot be cancelled and will take place on a pro forma basis, and we prefer that delegates not attend. Anyone wishing to be elected as a district or state delegate, please submit information by email to ------------. We require your name, address, email, telephone and birthdate. If you have any questions, please let us know. Please be aware that if you ask to be a delegate, you are expected to attend the convention you have signed up to attend, and there will be a fee for attending that is paid directly to the district or state, depending on which you choose to attend. All regular monthly meetings are cancelled until further notice.
Pine Mountain Regional Libraries
All Pine Mountain Regional Libraries will be closed to the public until Wednesday, April 1. During this time, no late fees will accrue on currently checked out items. Digital resources like RbDigital and eRead Kids will not be affected and will remain available to use.
The Upson Beacon Limits Office Hours
The Upson Beacon will join and support the effort to reduce potential COVID-19 viral spread by limiting office hours to 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, closed Wednesdays, through April 2.
Submission and payments may be dropped through the mail slot of the door at 106 East Gordon Street 24 hours a day, and submissions may be emailed to dlord@upsonbeacon.com. Credit and debit card payments may be made by calling the office at 706-646-2382.
Meanwhile, the Beacon staff will continue to update its readers and residents of Thomaston and Upson County with the most accurate and updated information possible concerning coronavirus and its impact on the community. Please visit The Upson Beacon Facebook page or upsonbeacon.com.
Commission Scrubs March 24th Meeting
Published 3-21-2020
Citing concerns surrounding the COVID-19 health risk, the Upson County Commission has cancelled its March 24 regular meeting, according to a press release from County Clerk Jessica Jones.
The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for April 14.
Citing concerns surrounding the COVID-19 health risk, the Upson County Commission has cancelled its March 24 regular meeting, according to a press release from County Clerk Jessica Jones.
The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for April 14.
No Charges Filed in Shooting Death
Local Man Charged for Stabbing Female
Published 3-19-2020
No charges were filed following a weekend shooting which left one man dead on Rose Hill Drive, according to a press release from the office of Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
Deputies were dispatched to 55 Rose Hill Drive, Lot L7 shortly after 8 a.m. Sunday and found 31-year-old Jeremy Dawson lying on the ground with an apparent gunshot wound, the report stated. Another male identified as the shooter was also on the scene, and surrendered to law enforcement.
Dawson was taken to Upson Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 9:14 a.m.
An investigation conducted by Upson SO with the aid of acting District Attorney Marie Broder’s office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation revealed that Dawson created a disturbance Saturday night among his estranged wife and other visitors at the residence. Dawson returned Sunday morning and another confrontation ensued.
“Dawson threw a knife at the male and aggressively approached the male after striking him with a baseball bat,” the report stated. “The male produced a handgun and fired one round, striking Dawson in the chest. The male secured the weapon in his vehicle and waited for law enforcement to arrive.”
Witnesses on the scene confirmed the account of the incident. Dawson’s body has been sent to the GBI crime lab for autopsy, and the investigation is ongoing, Kilgore said.
Around 1 a.m. the previous Saturday, deputies responded to 1209 Solomon Street in Thomaston, where they found a female with a stab wound to her left shoulder blade area inside the residence. Deputies administered first aid and the female was transported to URMC by ambulance.
Demontarius R. Thompson, 27, of Thomaston was arrested and charged with aggravated assault for the stabbing. He remains in the Upson County Jail pending a $20,000 bond.
Other arrests and charges reported by UCSO include:
John Wesley Mitchem, sexual exploitation of children;
Ann Hoard, aggravated assault;
Alejandro Lopez, robbery (sudden snatching), robbery (against a person 65 years of age or older);
Matthew Davis Lundy, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon;
Jarryl Lewis Smith, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon;
Jasmine Smith, possession of methamphetamine;
Daniel Jamal Matthews, felony probation violation (possession of cocaine), felony failure to appear (possession of meth);
Austin Nathaniel Ogletree, felony probation violation (entering vehicle), felony probation violation (criminal damage second degree);
George Hammond Fuller, felony probation violation (possession of meth);
Eden Johnson, felony failure to appear (possession of meth).
No charges were filed following a weekend shooting which left one man dead on Rose Hill Drive, according to a press release from the office of Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
Deputies were dispatched to 55 Rose Hill Drive, Lot L7 shortly after 8 a.m. Sunday and found 31-year-old Jeremy Dawson lying on the ground with an apparent gunshot wound, the report stated. Another male identified as the shooter was also on the scene, and surrendered to law enforcement.
Dawson was taken to Upson Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 9:14 a.m.
An investigation conducted by Upson SO with the aid of acting District Attorney Marie Broder’s office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation revealed that Dawson created a disturbance Saturday night among his estranged wife and other visitors at the residence. Dawson returned Sunday morning and another confrontation ensued.
“Dawson threw a knife at the male and aggressively approached the male after striking him with a baseball bat,” the report stated. “The male produced a handgun and fired one round, striking Dawson in the chest. The male secured the weapon in his vehicle and waited for law enforcement to arrive.”
Witnesses on the scene confirmed the account of the incident. Dawson’s body has been sent to the GBI crime lab for autopsy, and the investigation is ongoing, Kilgore said.
Around 1 a.m. the previous Saturday, deputies responded to 1209 Solomon Street in Thomaston, where they found a female with a stab wound to her left shoulder blade area inside the residence. Deputies administered first aid and the female was transported to URMC by ambulance.
Demontarius R. Thompson, 27, of Thomaston was arrested and charged with aggravated assault for the stabbing. He remains in the Upson County Jail pending a $20,000 bond.
Other arrests and charges reported by UCSO include:
John Wesley Mitchem, sexual exploitation of children;
Ann Hoard, aggravated assault;
Alejandro Lopez, robbery (sudden snatching), robbery (against a person 65 years of age or older);
Matthew Davis Lundy, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon;
Jarryl Lewis Smith, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon;
Jasmine Smith, possession of methamphetamine;
Daniel Jamal Matthews, felony probation violation (possession of cocaine), felony failure to appear (possession of meth);
Austin Nathaniel Ogletree, felony probation violation (entering vehicle), felony probation violation (criminal damage second degree);
George Hammond Fuller, felony probation violation (possession of meth);
Eden Johnson, felony failure to appear (possession of meth).
5 Pounds of Pot, Stolen Firearm Seized in Arrest
More than five pounds of marijuana, digital scales, narcotics, currency, stolen firearm and two magazines and ammunition were seized.
Published 3-19-2020
Officers with the Thomaston Police Department and deputies with the Upson County Sheriff’s Office assisted in an arrest last week that resulted in the seizure of more than five pounds of marijuana and a stolen pistol, according to a report from TPD Chief Mike Richardson.
Both agencies assisted the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Squad apprehend a subject at 119 Avenue F in Thomaston. During the arrest, law enforcement discovered a large amount of suspected marijuana in glass jars on the living room floor, the report stated.
The property was secured, and members of the Narcotics Task Force were notified to obtain a search warrant for the residence.
Upon executing the search warrant, agents discovered and seized more than five pounds of marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, assorted controlled narcotics in unidentified bottles, currency, and a stolen firearm with two magazines and ammunition. The pistol previously was reported stolen in Thomaston.
In addition to the fugitive wanted by Clayton County being arrested, Khadijah White of 121 Avenue E in Thomaston was arrested and charged with illegal possession of controlled substances, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and obstructing or hindering law enforcement officers.
Terrell Tracy Terry and Joshua Bernard Brown, both of 119 Avenue F in Thomaston, are wanted in connection with the incident, according to the report. Further investigation and arrests are pending.
Officers with the Thomaston Police Department and deputies with the Upson County Sheriff’s Office assisted in an arrest last week that resulted in the seizure of more than five pounds of marijuana and a stolen pistol, according to a report from TPD Chief Mike Richardson.
Both agencies assisted the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Squad apprehend a subject at 119 Avenue F in Thomaston. During the arrest, law enforcement discovered a large amount of suspected marijuana in glass jars on the living room floor, the report stated.
The property was secured, and members of the Narcotics Task Force were notified to obtain a search warrant for the residence.
Upon executing the search warrant, agents discovered and seized more than five pounds of marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, assorted controlled narcotics in unidentified bottles, currency, and a stolen firearm with two magazines and ammunition. The pistol previously was reported stolen in Thomaston.
In addition to the fugitive wanted by Clayton County being arrested, Khadijah White of 121 Avenue E in Thomaston was arrested and charged with illegal possession of controlled substances, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and obstructing or hindering law enforcement officers.
Terrell Tracy Terry and Joshua Bernard Brown, both of 119 Avenue F in Thomaston, are wanted in connection with the incident, according to the report. Further investigation and arrests are pending.
Tolen Sentenced to Serve 15 Years for Vehicular Homicide
Published 3-12-2020
Christopher Daryl Tolen of Macon entered a non-negotiated guilty plea last week and was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison by Judge Fletcher Sams in the March 2019 death of Upson County’s Sue Self Grubbs.
Tolen lost control of his vehicle and struck Grubbs at her mailbox on Highway 74, according to Georgia State Patrol reports. He reportedly was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the incident.
“Our hearts go out to the victim’s family in this case,” District Attorney Marie Broder said following the sentence. “Ms. Grubbs is greatly missed by all of those that loved her and were touched by her life.”
Grubbs served as secretary for the Upson Historical Society for 13 years and is the sister of Thomaston surveyor Gary Self.
The 15-year term to serve is the maximum sentence allowed.
Christopher Daryl Tolen of Macon entered a non-negotiated guilty plea last week and was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison by Judge Fletcher Sams in the March 2019 death of Upson County’s Sue Self Grubbs.
Tolen lost control of his vehicle and struck Grubbs at her mailbox on Highway 74, according to Georgia State Patrol reports. He reportedly was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the incident.
“Our hearts go out to the victim’s family in this case,” District Attorney Marie Broder said following the sentence. “Ms. Grubbs is greatly missed by all of those that loved her and were touched by her life.”
Grubbs served as secretary for the Upson Historical Society for 13 years and is the sister of Thomaston surveyor Gary Self.
The 15-year term to serve is the maximum sentence allowed.
Gordon State College Receives Largest Record Gift
Trustee White Endows Scholarships, Lecture Series plus Fine and Performing Arts Series
Montrese Adger Fuller, vice president of advancement, external relations and marketing and executive director of the Gordon State College Foundation; Dan White, donor and GSC Foundation trustee; Lucinda Dallas, GSC Foundation chair; and President Kirk A. Nooks.
Published 3-12-2020
By Katheryne A. Fields
Gordon State College
Director of Marketing
The Gordon State College Foundation recently received the largest donation in the history of the foundation, a landmark $255,000 gift from Gordon State College Foundation Board of Trustee member and donor Dan White, who has a long history with the college.
The $255,000 landmark gift, announced during the monthly meeting of the GSC Foundation Board of Trustees, will be designated toward a combination of eight endowed scholarships, an endowed lecture series and an endowed fine and performing arts series.
"Dan's leadership and contributions to this institution and community have been outstanding," said GSC President Kirk A. Nooks. "His generosity speaks to his desire to make a difference within this region. This investment will literally be a gift that keeps on giving. We arrived at this moment because of people who built an institution that means so much to so many. Future generations will benefit from this transformational legacy. That is truly the ‘Power of We!’.”
White, from Yatesville, has family members who attend Gordon. His acquaintance to the institution is not new, and he has continuously been a generous supporter of the students, the fine and performing arts program and the history program at Gordon. He has been a GSC Foundation trustee since 2015.
White is the co-founder and director of The Rural Library Project, Inc., a nonprofit organization working with rural municipalities to establish new and small libraries. He is also a partner in Passive Solar Design and Construction, Inc.
“I have seen this institution grow to what it is today, an educational resource for our region,” White said. “The personal investment on my part into this institution is to help further its mission regionally and statewide. There are many ways to enhance the experience at Gordon, and I encourage others to invest in students whose access to college education is right here. My focus is students from rural areas. It is incredible to see the changes that have occurred here over my lifetime and realize what a treasure it is.”
Montrese Adger Fuller, vice president of advancement, external relations and marketing and executive director of the Gordon State College Foundation, said, "This gift is transformational, and we appreciate the long lasting legacy that Dan White is leaving for the students and programs at Gordon for many years to come."
This is the first fine and performing arts endowment at Gordon and is a timely response to a need for the program.
“We are extremely grateful for the generosity of Mr. White’s gift,” said Dr. Ed Whitelock, department head for humanities and programs in fine and performing arts at Gordon. “We are helping students create experiences outside of the classroom that also benefit the arts in our service region.”
The GSC Foundation reported $656,359 in annual giving contributions for 2018-2019, and the GSC Foundation Board achieved 100 percent participation in giving to the college for 2019.
By Katheryne A. Fields
Gordon State College
Director of Marketing
The Gordon State College Foundation recently received the largest donation in the history of the foundation, a landmark $255,000 gift from Gordon State College Foundation Board of Trustee member and donor Dan White, who has a long history with the college.
The $255,000 landmark gift, announced during the monthly meeting of the GSC Foundation Board of Trustees, will be designated toward a combination of eight endowed scholarships, an endowed lecture series and an endowed fine and performing arts series.
"Dan's leadership and contributions to this institution and community have been outstanding," said GSC President Kirk A. Nooks. "His generosity speaks to his desire to make a difference within this region. This investment will literally be a gift that keeps on giving. We arrived at this moment because of people who built an institution that means so much to so many. Future generations will benefit from this transformational legacy. That is truly the ‘Power of We!’.”
White, from Yatesville, has family members who attend Gordon. His acquaintance to the institution is not new, and he has continuously been a generous supporter of the students, the fine and performing arts program and the history program at Gordon. He has been a GSC Foundation trustee since 2015.
White is the co-founder and director of The Rural Library Project, Inc., a nonprofit organization working with rural municipalities to establish new and small libraries. He is also a partner in Passive Solar Design and Construction, Inc.
“I have seen this institution grow to what it is today, an educational resource for our region,” White said. “The personal investment on my part into this institution is to help further its mission regionally and statewide. There are many ways to enhance the experience at Gordon, and I encourage others to invest in students whose access to college education is right here. My focus is students from rural areas. It is incredible to see the changes that have occurred here over my lifetime and realize what a treasure it is.”
Montrese Adger Fuller, vice president of advancement, external relations and marketing and executive director of the Gordon State College Foundation, said, "This gift is transformational, and we appreciate the long lasting legacy that Dan White is leaving for the students and programs at Gordon for many years to come."
This is the first fine and performing arts endowment at Gordon and is a timely response to a need for the program.
“We are extremely grateful for the generosity of Mr. White’s gift,” said Dr. Ed Whitelock, department head for humanities and programs in fine and performing arts at Gordon. “We are helping students create experiences outside of the classroom that also benefit the arts in our service region.”
The GSC Foundation reported $656,359 in annual giving contributions for 2018-2019, and the GSC Foundation Board achieved 100 percent participation in giving to the college for 2019.
URMC Prepares for Coronavirus Amid Concerns
Published 3-12-2020
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging communities across the United States to prepare for the possibility of coronavirus (COVID-19) becoming widespread.
There currently are two cases in Georgia, each of which are in the metro Atlanta area. Both cases are not hospitalized and are recuperating at home. But as the virus continues to spread, there likely will be more cases that occur closer to home.
Upson Regional Medical Center asks travel questions of every patient coming into the facility, and staff members are paying close attention to the travel histories of patients who have been to an area where COVID-19 is present, according to hospital officials.
“Upson Regional Medical Center is using the guidance of the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health to prepare our community,” said Daniel McBride, director of infection prevention and occupational health. “Our hospital is ready to take care of our residents and provide the best care possible as we face this challenge.”
Coronavirus presents much like many other respiratory illnesses, with main symptoms of coughing and fever. Sometimes body aches, headache, and diarrhea are also present. The virus can be more severe in certain populations, such as the elderly and those who are immune compromised. They are more prone to developing severe disease and complications, according to reports.
Coronavirus spreads from person to person through droplets from coughing or sneezing. Droplets travel up to six feet through the air, and land where they can be picked up by touching contaminated surfaces. Hand hygiene is critical to breaking the spread of infection, especially after touching a potentially contaminated surface and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
It's best to stay home if you are not well. If you feel you need medical attention, call your doctor or emergency care center for guidance. As always, if you have a true emergency, go to the nearest emergency care center.
See the following links for further information on COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html and https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging communities across the United States to prepare for the possibility of coronavirus (COVID-19) becoming widespread.
There currently are two cases in Georgia, each of which are in the metro Atlanta area. Both cases are not hospitalized and are recuperating at home. But as the virus continues to spread, there likely will be more cases that occur closer to home.
Upson Regional Medical Center asks travel questions of every patient coming into the facility, and staff members are paying close attention to the travel histories of patients who have been to an area where COVID-19 is present, according to hospital officials.
“Upson Regional Medical Center is using the guidance of the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health to prepare our community,” said Daniel McBride, director of infection prevention and occupational health. “Our hospital is ready to take care of our residents and provide the best care possible as we face this challenge.”
Coronavirus presents much like many other respiratory illnesses, with main symptoms of coughing and fever. Sometimes body aches, headache, and diarrhea are also present. The virus can be more severe in certain populations, such as the elderly and those who are immune compromised. They are more prone to developing severe disease and complications, according to reports.
Coronavirus spreads from person to person through droplets from coughing or sneezing. Droplets travel up to six feet through the air, and land where they can be picked up by touching contaminated surfaces. Hand hygiene is critical to breaking the spread of infection, especially after touching a potentially contaminated surface and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
It's best to stay home if you are not well. If you feel you need medical attention, call your doctor or emergency care center for guidance. As always, if you have a true emergency, go to the nearest emergency care center.
See the following links for further information on COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html and https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus.
IDA, City and County Officials Discuss Sewer Project Funding
Published 3-5-2020
By Bridge Turner
Members of the Thomaston City Council and Upson County Commission attended a meeting of the Industrial Development Authority last week to weigh in on a recently unveiled $8.7 million plan to upgrade the community’s ailing wastewater infrastructure.
City Manager Russell Thompson was quick to tell board members that his figures are a “snapshot of potential funding sources,” and not a proposal, adding that the city likely will move forward with one of two options provided. Which option will largely depend on the level of participation by the county and IDA.
The plan involves improvements to Bell Creek and Town Branch facilities and an interceptor at Town Branch. Inclusion of a transfer pipe, which could increase capacity to the industrial park, accounts for an estimated $2.1 million of the project.
Funding is available through various loans and grants, collections from the special purpose local option sales tax, and revenue from joint projects between the city and county. But there will be approximately $3 million left unfunded to be offset by the three governing bodies or a combination thereof.
Executive Director Kyle Fletcher said any action taken by the IDA would be premature until participation decisions are made by city and county officials, and IDA Chair Carson Gleaton agreed.
“Y’all fund us. We will only be able to vote for funding after we know what you’re going to fund,” Gleaton stated. “Is the county not saying they’re going to help with their unincorporated cost of $1.1 million?”
County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, who also sits on the IDA board, said one question is whether the IDA is interested in developing the industrial park, and to what degree.
“I would say we are. I don’t think anyone on this board would say no,” Gleaton responded. “But we have to know, from the county’s perspective, what the county’s interested in doing. The city [manager] has said what he’s going to propose to [council], but I haven’t heard the county say.”
“We’ve obligated $741,000 so far,” Allen replied, “but the county commission hasn’t been presented this yet.”
The IDA currently holds about $1.5 million in its account, some of which has been committed to other non-related projects. But the IDA has no source of revenue aside from city and county support.
“The three parties need to sit down and hash out who’s going to pay for what,” said Joel Bentley, who serves as attorney for the IDA and City of Thomaston. “The IDA has certain funds in cash reserve. Are part of those funds going to be pledged? Can all parties agree to some type of funding mechanism?
“Nobody, in my experience, is going to loan the IDA money. There are no revenue flows for the IDA, period,” Bentley continued. “It’s fallen on the county in the past. The county generally has been required to co-sign because the county has full faith and credit.”
The level of IDA participation in funding the project will affect the amount of sewage capacity allocated to the industrial park, and decisions are needed prior to beginning the process, according to Thompson.
“If we [city] proceed with option two [no transfer pipe] and the IDA decides to jump in months down the road, we’ve already spent our part,” Thompson said.
A lack of adequate wastewater service has limited the IDA’s recruiting pool, according to board members. “If we’re going to market the park, we need capacity,” Fletcher said.
The IDA has discussed the construction of pad-ready sites and other speculative development as incentive for potential industries considering location in Upson County. Developing the entire park for optimum recruitment could cost more than $4 million, in addition to the sewer project.
The next scheduled meeting of the IDA is 8 a.m. Monday, March 9 at the Government Complex.
By Bridge Turner
Members of the Thomaston City Council and Upson County Commission attended a meeting of the Industrial Development Authority last week to weigh in on a recently unveiled $8.7 million plan to upgrade the community’s ailing wastewater infrastructure.
City Manager Russell Thompson was quick to tell board members that his figures are a “snapshot of potential funding sources,” and not a proposal, adding that the city likely will move forward with one of two options provided. Which option will largely depend on the level of participation by the county and IDA.
The plan involves improvements to Bell Creek and Town Branch facilities and an interceptor at Town Branch. Inclusion of a transfer pipe, which could increase capacity to the industrial park, accounts for an estimated $2.1 million of the project.
Funding is available through various loans and grants, collections from the special purpose local option sales tax, and revenue from joint projects between the city and county. But there will be approximately $3 million left unfunded to be offset by the three governing bodies or a combination thereof.
Executive Director Kyle Fletcher said any action taken by the IDA would be premature until participation decisions are made by city and county officials, and IDA Chair Carson Gleaton agreed.
“Y’all fund us. We will only be able to vote for funding after we know what you’re going to fund,” Gleaton stated. “Is the county not saying they’re going to help with their unincorporated cost of $1.1 million?”
County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, who also sits on the IDA board, said one question is whether the IDA is interested in developing the industrial park, and to what degree.
“I would say we are. I don’t think anyone on this board would say no,” Gleaton responded. “But we have to know, from the county’s perspective, what the county’s interested in doing. The city [manager] has said what he’s going to propose to [council], but I haven’t heard the county say.”
“We’ve obligated $741,000 so far,” Allen replied, “but the county commission hasn’t been presented this yet.”
The IDA currently holds about $1.5 million in its account, some of which has been committed to other non-related projects. But the IDA has no source of revenue aside from city and county support.
“The three parties need to sit down and hash out who’s going to pay for what,” said Joel Bentley, who serves as attorney for the IDA and City of Thomaston. “The IDA has certain funds in cash reserve. Are part of those funds going to be pledged? Can all parties agree to some type of funding mechanism?
“Nobody, in my experience, is going to loan the IDA money. There are no revenue flows for the IDA, period,” Bentley continued. “It’s fallen on the county in the past. The county generally has been required to co-sign because the county has full faith and credit.”
The level of IDA participation in funding the project will affect the amount of sewage capacity allocated to the industrial park, and decisions are needed prior to beginning the process, according to Thompson.
“If we [city] proceed with option two [no transfer pipe] and the IDA decides to jump in months down the road, we’ve already spent our part,” Thompson said.
A lack of adequate wastewater service has limited the IDA’s recruiting pool, according to board members. “If we’re going to market the park, we need capacity,” Fletcher said.
The IDA has discussed the construction of pad-ready sites and other speculative development as incentive for potential industries considering location in Upson County. Developing the entire park for optimum recruitment could cost more than $4 million, in addition to the sewer project.
The next scheduled meeting of the IDA is 8 a.m. Monday, March 9 at the Government Complex.
Heart & Soul Day at the Capitol
Published 3-5-2020
Rep. Ken Pullin invited local officials to the Capitol Monday to take part in a resolution proclaiming March 2, 2020 Thomaston-Upson Community Heart & Soul Day. Find more the full story and more about the Heart & Soulabration in next week's edition of The Upson Beacon. Pullin, back left, is shown with Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, Neil Trice of Upson EMC, Mayor J.D. Stallings, Commission Chairman Norman Allen, (front row, from left) Sarah Lightner of Orton Family Foundation, Sen. John Kennedy, H&S Coordinator Jennifer Rogers, and Jenny Robbins of Georgia EMC.
Cameron Jones Sentenced to Life Plus 20 Years
Defendant Pleads Guilty to Murder of Lamar County Resident Roderick Crawford
Cameron Jones
Published 2-27-2020
Cameron Jones pled guilty last week to malice murder and aggravated assault in the December 2018 death of Roderick Crawford, and was sentenced to serve life in prison plus 20 years, according to a press release from Chief Assistant District Attorney Marie Broder.
Broder, recently appointed to succeed Ben Coker as district attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit, and Assistant District Attorney Ashton Fallin prepared the case for trial, which was scheduled to begin March 9. The defendant entered a guilty plea in front of Judge W. Fletcher Sams last Thursday on what was scheduled to be a motions day.
The family and law enforcement agreed to the guilty plea.
Kiera Williams, a co-defendant, also pled guilty to malice murder of Barnesville resident Crawford on a previous court date and was sentenced to life in prison followed by 20 years. Williams and Jones shot and killed Crawford at an abandoned house in Upson County.
Both Jones and Williams still face charges in Clayton County.
"On Dec. 29 of 2018, Roderick Crawford, a beloved father, husband, brother, cousin, and son, went missing from Lamar County," Broder said. "Agencies immediately began to work together to find him and happened upon a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde story. Our office worked with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Lamar County Sheriff's Office, the Upson County Sheriff's Office, Thomaston Police Department, Clayton County District Attorney's Office, Clayton County Sheriff's Office, Clayton County Police Department, Forest Park Police Department, and the Towaliga District Attorney's Office to apprehend Cameron Jones and Kiera Williams, who were responsible for a multi-county crime spree involving five different men.”
“These crimes would have never been solved but for the diligent efforts of the incredible men and women in these agencies,” Broder continued. “They put in countless hours to apprehend these dangerous criminals and bring them to justice. Let this plea and sentence be a message to those that seek to do unspeakable harm to upstanding people like Roderick Crawford. Upson County and the Griffin Judicial Circuit will not tolerate crime such as this in our community."
Cameron Jones pled guilty last week to malice murder and aggravated assault in the December 2018 death of Roderick Crawford, and was sentenced to serve life in prison plus 20 years, according to a press release from Chief Assistant District Attorney Marie Broder.
Broder, recently appointed to succeed Ben Coker as district attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit, and Assistant District Attorney Ashton Fallin prepared the case for trial, which was scheduled to begin March 9. The defendant entered a guilty plea in front of Judge W. Fletcher Sams last Thursday on what was scheduled to be a motions day.
The family and law enforcement agreed to the guilty plea.
Kiera Williams, a co-defendant, also pled guilty to malice murder of Barnesville resident Crawford on a previous court date and was sentenced to life in prison followed by 20 years. Williams and Jones shot and killed Crawford at an abandoned house in Upson County.
Both Jones and Williams still face charges in Clayton County.
"On Dec. 29 of 2018, Roderick Crawford, a beloved father, husband, brother, cousin, and son, went missing from Lamar County," Broder said. "Agencies immediately began to work together to find him and happened upon a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde story. Our office worked with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Lamar County Sheriff's Office, the Upson County Sheriff's Office, Thomaston Police Department, Clayton County District Attorney's Office, Clayton County Sheriff's Office, Clayton County Police Department, Forest Park Police Department, and the Towaliga District Attorney's Office to apprehend Cameron Jones and Kiera Williams, who were responsible for a multi-county crime spree involving five different men.”
“These crimes would have never been solved but for the diligent efforts of the incredible men and women in these agencies,” Broder continued. “They put in countless hours to apprehend these dangerous criminals and bring them to justice. Let this plea and sentence be a message to those that seek to do unspeakable harm to upstanding people like Roderick Crawford. Upson County and the Griffin Judicial Circuit will not tolerate crime such as this in our community."
GDOT Official Gives Update of Ongoing, Upcoming Projects
Brooks: ‘This is the Year of Resurfacing’
L-R: T-U Chamber President Darren Day, GDOT Official Penny Brooks, URMC CEO Jeff Tarrant, and T-U Chamber Executive Director Lori Smith. Photo by Luke Haney.
GDOT’s Penny Brooks told attendees of the Sun’s Up on Upson meeting that a “roundabout” is planned at the five-way stop, and, “You’ll learn to love it.”
Published 2-27-2020
By Bridge Turner
Penny Brooks, District 3 communications officer for the Georgia Department of Transportation, told local leaders that the county will receive its share of road improvements during what she termed “the year of resurfacing” at a Sun’s Up on Upson business breakfast meeting last week.
Topics included the Highway 19 North widening project, a proposed “roundabout” at the five-way stop, realignment of the “one-way pairs” downtown, creation of “rumble strips,” resurfacing state routes and implementation of distracted driving and walking programs.
Brooks first assessed the widening project at Northside, saying that excessive rainfall has delayed progress somewhat, but the department considers the project to be on schedule. She added that concerns regarding aging infrastructure beneath the highway are being addressed.
“As you know, there was a conflict with what was in the design and what was in the road,” Brooks said. “We’ve been working with our contractor, and the plumbing issue has been worked out. That whole situation should be resolved within the next month or so. Otherwise, it has been a smooth project.”
The projected two-and-a-half-year widening project, which includes shifting the Delray Road intersection to Jimmerson Road, should be completed in summer of 2021, she estimated.
A traffic circle or “roundabout” at the five-way intersection of Highways 36 and 74, Hightower Street and North Bethel Street east of the square is in the design phase, according to Brooks. The design should be introduced to the public at an open house by the end of 2020, at which time GDOT will welcome feedback, she said.
“It will promote and maintain better connectivity, minimize property impact, and reduce crash frequency and severity by reducing contact points,” Brooks explained. “It will reduce the speed at which accidents may occur, improving sight distance through improved geometric design, plus there will be pedestrian enhancements.”
Brooks admitted that initially most communities are not receptive to roundabouts, but said once constructed, attitudes quickly improve.
“The data is clear,” she stated. “It keeps traffic moving, forces you to be alert and is much more efficient. You’ll learn to love it.”
The roundabout will be tied to a project to improve operations of the four intersections along the Highway 36 and 74 one-way pairs [through downtown] by realigning the intersections and improving their geometry. Following the open house and an approximate six-month bidding process, the project should require less than 12 months to complete, according to Brooks.
Rumble strips on both center and side lines are being installed on most roadways and soon “will be everywhere,” Brooks commented. The strips, which abruptly alert drivers wandering outside the proper lane, are proven to prevent accidents, according to reports. Most work related to rumble strips will be conducted quickly overnight to avoid traffic interruption, and should be completed in the area by June, she said.
Among planned routine resurfacing projects is a 12-mile stretch on Highway 74 West from Potato Creek to the Pike County line, which should be completed by end of summer.
Upson County is located in the center of the district’s 31-county area which spans north to south from Atlanta to Americus and east to west from Macon to the Alabama state line. The central location resulted in District 3 headquarters being constructed locally, according to Brooks. District 3 boasts more interstate miles than any district in Georgia, and the local operations center constantly monitors activity on those roadways.
Brooks reminded those in attendance that there will be lane closures associated with many upcoming projects, and stressed the importance of attention to signage and flaggers near work zones.
The Sun’s Up on Upson business breakfast meeting was held in the auditorium of Upson Regional Medical Center.
By Bridge Turner
Penny Brooks, District 3 communications officer for the Georgia Department of Transportation, told local leaders that the county will receive its share of road improvements during what she termed “the year of resurfacing” at a Sun’s Up on Upson business breakfast meeting last week.
Topics included the Highway 19 North widening project, a proposed “roundabout” at the five-way stop, realignment of the “one-way pairs” downtown, creation of “rumble strips,” resurfacing state routes and implementation of distracted driving and walking programs.
Brooks first assessed the widening project at Northside, saying that excessive rainfall has delayed progress somewhat, but the department considers the project to be on schedule. She added that concerns regarding aging infrastructure beneath the highway are being addressed.
“As you know, there was a conflict with what was in the design and what was in the road,” Brooks said. “We’ve been working with our contractor, and the plumbing issue has been worked out. That whole situation should be resolved within the next month or so. Otherwise, it has been a smooth project.”
The projected two-and-a-half-year widening project, which includes shifting the Delray Road intersection to Jimmerson Road, should be completed in summer of 2021, she estimated.
A traffic circle or “roundabout” at the five-way intersection of Highways 36 and 74, Hightower Street and North Bethel Street east of the square is in the design phase, according to Brooks. The design should be introduced to the public at an open house by the end of 2020, at which time GDOT will welcome feedback, she said.
“It will promote and maintain better connectivity, minimize property impact, and reduce crash frequency and severity by reducing contact points,” Brooks explained. “It will reduce the speed at which accidents may occur, improving sight distance through improved geometric design, plus there will be pedestrian enhancements.”
Brooks admitted that initially most communities are not receptive to roundabouts, but said once constructed, attitudes quickly improve.
“The data is clear,” she stated. “It keeps traffic moving, forces you to be alert and is much more efficient. You’ll learn to love it.”
The roundabout will be tied to a project to improve operations of the four intersections along the Highway 36 and 74 one-way pairs [through downtown] by realigning the intersections and improving their geometry. Following the open house and an approximate six-month bidding process, the project should require less than 12 months to complete, according to Brooks.
Rumble strips on both center and side lines are being installed on most roadways and soon “will be everywhere,” Brooks commented. The strips, which abruptly alert drivers wandering outside the proper lane, are proven to prevent accidents, according to reports. Most work related to rumble strips will be conducted quickly overnight to avoid traffic interruption, and should be completed in the area by June, she said.
Among planned routine resurfacing projects is a 12-mile stretch on Highway 74 West from Potato Creek to the Pike County line, which should be completed by end of summer.
Upson County is located in the center of the district’s 31-county area which spans north to south from Atlanta to Americus and east to west from Macon to the Alabama state line. The central location resulted in District 3 headquarters being constructed locally, according to Brooks. District 3 boasts more interstate miles than any district in Georgia, and the local operations center constantly monitors activity on those roadways.
Brooks reminded those in attendance that there will be lane closures associated with many upcoming projects, and stressed the importance of attention to signage and flaggers near work zones.
The Sun’s Up on Upson business breakfast meeting was held in the auditorium of Upson Regional Medical Center.
Fugitive Escapes After Collision, Auto Theft
Terel King
Published 2-20-2020
By Bridge Turner
A fugitive wanted in connection with a 2017 robbery of a local convenience store remains at large after a pursuit, collision, and car theft to elude Thomaston Police Department personnel last week.
Terel King of Upson County, who has outstanding warrants for aggravated assault and robbery, was spotted by a senior officer patrolling the Triune Mill Road area around 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, according to TPD investigators. Following positive identification of King driving a Cadillac Escalade, the officer radioed for additional response.
Multiple marked units joined in pursuit, which ended momentarily with an intentional collision near the intersection of Avenue L and Barnesville Street. As officers attempted to apprehend King exiting his vehicle, the involvement of a civilian complicated an already volatile situation, according to reports.
The civilian had stopped in the roadway and drawn a pistol as King approached his vehicle, with hands raised. King rushed past the civilian, entered the vehicle with officers trying to remove him, and accelerated onto Avenue L. Police units chased but lost contact with King, who was last seen traveling south on Waymanville Road away from Thomaston.
One officer was injured in the collision and two more sustained injuries in the altercation with King. All three officers were treated and released from Upson Regional Medical Center.
“It could have turned out better, but it also could have been a lot worse,” a TPD representative said of the incident.
King, a 31-year-old black male, should be considered extremely dangerous, according to department reports.
Anyone having information concerning the whereabouts of King or the stolen vehicle, a 2003 Nissan Pathfinder bearing Georgia license plate PYD4823, is urged to immediately dial 911 or contact the Thomaston Police Department at 706-647-5455.
By Bridge Turner
A fugitive wanted in connection with a 2017 robbery of a local convenience store remains at large after a pursuit, collision, and car theft to elude Thomaston Police Department personnel last week.
Terel King of Upson County, who has outstanding warrants for aggravated assault and robbery, was spotted by a senior officer patrolling the Triune Mill Road area around 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, according to TPD investigators. Following positive identification of King driving a Cadillac Escalade, the officer radioed for additional response.
Multiple marked units joined in pursuit, which ended momentarily with an intentional collision near the intersection of Avenue L and Barnesville Street. As officers attempted to apprehend King exiting his vehicle, the involvement of a civilian complicated an already volatile situation, according to reports.
The civilian had stopped in the roadway and drawn a pistol as King approached his vehicle, with hands raised. King rushed past the civilian, entered the vehicle with officers trying to remove him, and accelerated onto Avenue L. Police units chased but lost contact with King, who was last seen traveling south on Waymanville Road away from Thomaston.
One officer was injured in the collision and two more sustained injuries in the altercation with King. All three officers were treated and released from Upson Regional Medical Center.
“It could have turned out better, but it also could have been a lot worse,” a TPD representative said of the incident.
King, a 31-year-old black male, should be considered extremely dangerous, according to department reports.
Anyone having information concerning the whereabouts of King or the stolen vehicle, a 2003 Nissan Pathfinder bearing Georgia license plate PYD4823, is urged to immediately dial 911 or contact the Thomaston Police Department at 706-647-5455.
Broder Appointed District Attorney For Griffin Circuit
First Female D.A. in Circuit’s History
D.A. Marie G. Broder
Published 2-20-2020
Gov. Brian Kemp has selected Marie G. Broder of Spalding County to serve as the new Griffin Judicial Circuit district attorney following his appointment of D.A. Benjamin D. Coker to the fifth judgeship for the circuit.
Broder is the first woman to be named D.A. in the Griffin circuit.
Broder, who currently serves as chief assistant district attorney, received bachelor’s degrees in speech communication and public relations and a law degree from the University of Georgia. She has served as a law clerk and associate, assistant district attorney and office manager in the Griffin circuit.
Broder is a member of the Federalist Society, Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, Georgia Bar Association, Phi Beta Kappa, Daughters of the American Revolution, Spalding County Bar Association, Fayette County Bar Association, Upson County Bar Association and Georgia Association of Women Lawyers.
She and her husband, Karl, reside in Griffin with their daughter.
Coker, who was chosen to fill a vacancy on the circuit’s Superior Court, holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, risk management and insurance from the University of Georgia and a law degree from the Georgia State University College of Law.
Prior to his appointment, Coker served as an associate attorney and assistant district attorney. He is a member of the Thomaston Bar Association, Spalding County Bar Association, Fayette County Bar Association and is a board member for Promise Place, a domestic violence prevention agency.
Coker and his wife, Christy, reside in Thomaston with their children.
Gov. Brian Kemp has selected Marie G. Broder of Spalding County to serve as the new Griffin Judicial Circuit district attorney following his appointment of D.A. Benjamin D. Coker to the fifth judgeship for the circuit.
Broder is the first woman to be named D.A. in the Griffin circuit.
Broder, who currently serves as chief assistant district attorney, received bachelor’s degrees in speech communication and public relations and a law degree from the University of Georgia. She has served as a law clerk and associate, assistant district attorney and office manager in the Griffin circuit.
Broder is a member of the Federalist Society, Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, Georgia Bar Association, Phi Beta Kappa, Daughters of the American Revolution, Spalding County Bar Association, Fayette County Bar Association, Upson County Bar Association and Georgia Association of Women Lawyers.
She and her husband, Karl, reside in Griffin with their daughter.
Coker, who was chosen to fill a vacancy on the circuit’s Superior Court, holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, risk management and insurance from the University of Georgia and a law degree from the Georgia State University College of Law.
Prior to his appointment, Coker served as an associate attorney and assistant district attorney. He is a member of the Thomaston Bar Association, Spalding County Bar Association, Fayette County Bar Association and is a board member for Promise Place, a domestic violence prevention agency.
Coker and his wife, Christy, reside in Thomaston with their children.
Crawford to Resign After Guilty Plea
Judge Will be Allowed to Retire
Robert “Mack” Crawford
Published 2-20-2020
Editor’s Note: The following story by R. Robin McDonald is reprinted from the “Daily Report” website.
In the Pike County courthouse where he presided as a judge for nearly a decade, suspended Superior Court Judge Robert “Mack” Crawford pled guilty through an Alford plea Thursday to theft by taking. A charge of violating his oath of office and a second theft charge were dismissed.
Superior Court Judge Maureen Gottfried, on assignment from the Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit in Columbus, sentenced Crawford to 12 months of unsupervised, fee exempt probation and granted him first offender status. Crawford’s plea will not be made part of the court record at this time and will be sealed along with the charges, once his probation is complete.
Crawford was charged with abusing his judicial authority to steal $15,675 that belonged to former clients from the Pike County court registry.
Crawford repaid the money in 2018 after the Judicial Qualifications Commission received multiple complaints that he had violated the state Code of Judicial Conduct and launched an ethics investigation into the judge. The funds were subsequently turned over to the state Department of Revenue, which located one of Crawford’s former clients and forwarded the money to her last year.
As part of a plea agreement with the state attorney general’s office, which did not include an admission of guilt, Crawford agreed to retire and submit his resignation to Gov. Brian Kemp by Friday. The 66-year-old judge, whose term expires in December, also promised he will not seek reelection or apply for, run for, or serve as a judge in any court while he remains on probation.
Crawford has not heard any cases since the state judicial watchdog agency suspended him with pay after his indictment by a Pike County grand jury nearly 16 months ago.
Crawford’s attorney, Virgil Brown, told the court that his client maintains he was owed the money for legal work he performed but was never paid. Brown also insisted that Crawford never ordered the clerk to give him the money or intimidated her in any way.
“She paid him that money back because she thought it was the right thing to do,” Brown said. “I’ve known Mack Crawford most of his life… In my opinion, Mack Crawford would not take one cent that was not his.”
Crawford said he entered the Alford plea and agreed to retire because he decided when he ran in 2012 that it would be his last campaign. He said he also feared his state pension might be jeopardized if a trial led to a felony conviction. “I think I would have prevailed, but I wasn’t going to take the chance,” he said.
Crawford refused to step down in the wake of his indictment despite a recommendation by the state judicial watchdog agency that he be removed from office. Crawford instead filed a legal challenge questioning the legitimacy of the appointed commissioners who voted to oust him.
The Supreme Court of Georgia stayed a decision on whether to accept the JQC’s recommendation to remove Crawford until an appeal of his challenge is resolved.
Editor’s Note: The following story by R. Robin McDonald is reprinted from the “Daily Report” website.
In the Pike County courthouse where he presided as a judge for nearly a decade, suspended Superior Court Judge Robert “Mack” Crawford pled guilty through an Alford plea Thursday to theft by taking. A charge of violating his oath of office and a second theft charge were dismissed.
Superior Court Judge Maureen Gottfried, on assignment from the Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit in Columbus, sentenced Crawford to 12 months of unsupervised, fee exempt probation and granted him first offender status. Crawford’s plea will not be made part of the court record at this time and will be sealed along with the charges, once his probation is complete.
Crawford was charged with abusing his judicial authority to steal $15,675 that belonged to former clients from the Pike County court registry.
Crawford repaid the money in 2018 after the Judicial Qualifications Commission received multiple complaints that he had violated the state Code of Judicial Conduct and launched an ethics investigation into the judge. The funds were subsequently turned over to the state Department of Revenue, which located one of Crawford’s former clients and forwarded the money to her last year.
As part of a plea agreement with the state attorney general’s office, which did not include an admission of guilt, Crawford agreed to retire and submit his resignation to Gov. Brian Kemp by Friday. The 66-year-old judge, whose term expires in December, also promised he will not seek reelection or apply for, run for, or serve as a judge in any court while he remains on probation.
Crawford has not heard any cases since the state judicial watchdog agency suspended him with pay after his indictment by a Pike County grand jury nearly 16 months ago.
Crawford’s attorney, Virgil Brown, told the court that his client maintains he was owed the money for legal work he performed but was never paid. Brown also insisted that Crawford never ordered the clerk to give him the money or intimidated her in any way.
“She paid him that money back because she thought it was the right thing to do,” Brown said. “I’ve known Mack Crawford most of his life… In my opinion, Mack Crawford would not take one cent that was not his.”
Crawford said he entered the Alford plea and agreed to retire because he decided when he ran in 2012 that it would be his last campaign. He said he also feared his state pension might be jeopardized if a trial led to a felony conviction. “I think I would have prevailed, but I wasn’t going to take the chance,” he said.
Crawford refused to step down in the wake of his indictment despite a recommendation by the state judicial watchdog agency that he be removed from office. Crawford instead filed a legal challenge questioning the legitimacy of the appointed commissioners who voted to oust him.
The Supreme Court of Georgia stayed a decision on whether to accept the JQC’s recommendation to remove Crawford until an appeal of his challenge is resolved.
Top 10 City and County Corporate Taxpayers Listed
Published 2-13-2020
The top 10 corporate taxpayers for the City of Thomaston and Upson County for 2019 have been released by the office of Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain.
Top 10 in the city are:
•West Georgia Generating, $25,821,828 (assessment) / $218,194 (bill amount);
•Walmart, $5,685,764 / $48,045;
•Georgia Power, $14,041,949 / $39,638;
•Standard Textiles, $4,572,201 / $37,222;
•Home Depot, $3,929,306 / $33,203;
•Pacific Management (Northcreek Shopping Center), $2,456,170 / $20,755;
•Ingles, $2,193,763 / $18,537;
•SouthCrest Bank, $2,078,115 / $18,035;
•Thomaston South Assoc, $1,393,862 / $11,778;
•Thomaston Affordable Housing, $1,312,758 / $11,093.
Top 10 in the county are:
•Southern Natural Gas, $20,894,969 (assessment) / $346,547 (bill amount);
•Quad Graphics, $17,952,102 / $274,413;
•Solo Cup, $18,767,930 / $243,765;
•West Georgia Generating, $25,821,828 / $232,138;
•Georgia Power, $14,041,949 / $194,780;
•Southern Mills, $13,743,852 / $105,153;
•Interfor, $7,175,927 / $104,822;
•Walmart, $5,685,764 / $51,115;
•Upson EMC, $3,158,294 / $48,197;
•Georgia Windstream, $2,592,546 / $35,564.
The top 10 corporate taxpayers for the City of Thomaston and Upson County for 2019 have been released by the office of Tax Commissioner Andy Chastain.
Top 10 in the city are:
•West Georgia Generating, $25,821,828 (assessment) / $218,194 (bill amount);
•Walmart, $5,685,764 / $48,045;
•Georgia Power, $14,041,949 / $39,638;
•Standard Textiles, $4,572,201 / $37,222;
•Home Depot, $3,929,306 / $33,203;
•Pacific Management (Northcreek Shopping Center), $2,456,170 / $20,755;
•Ingles, $2,193,763 / $18,537;
•SouthCrest Bank, $2,078,115 / $18,035;
•Thomaston South Assoc, $1,393,862 / $11,778;
•Thomaston Affordable Housing, $1,312,758 / $11,093.
Top 10 in the county are:
•Southern Natural Gas, $20,894,969 (assessment) / $346,547 (bill amount);
•Quad Graphics, $17,952,102 / $274,413;
•Solo Cup, $18,767,930 / $243,765;
•West Georgia Generating, $25,821,828 / $232,138;
•Georgia Power, $14,041,949 / $194,780;
•Southern Mills, $13,743,852 / $105,153;
•Interfor, $7,175,927 / $104,822;
•Walmart, $5,685,764 / $51,115;
•Upson EMC, $3,158,294 / $48,197;
•Georgia Windstream, $2,592,546 / $35,564.
PD Reports Shootings, No Injuries
Published 2-13-2020
Two walk-by shootings were reported 40 minutes apart at locations within 1.5 miles of each other early Sunday morning, according to reports from the Thomaston Police Department.
No injuries were reported, and no arrests had been made at press time.
Officers were dispatched to Triune Village Apartments just after 1 a.m. Sunday in reference to gunshots and discovered multiple shell casings on the ground and bullet holes in the living room and bedroom windows at unit 226. A resident stated she was watching television in her bedroom and heard four gunshots, but did not see a vehicle.
A second resident told officers she was in bed with her son when she heard the shots, and a third witness said she was sleeping and remembered being pushed to the floor for safety.
Four shell casings were collected, and investigators documented two bullet holes in the living room window and one in the bedroom window of the apartment.
Less than 40 minutes later, officers were dispatched to 209 Washington Street for a similar shooting and were given a description of the alleged offender by a threatened witness.
“[The witness] saw a dark colored vehicle drive by the house and stop,” according to the report. “A black male subject wearing gray sweatpants, black shoes and a gray hoody walked into the yard and approached him at the front door. The male subject kicked the door and started shooting at him… then fled the area.”
Investigators noted four bullet holes, two in the wood frame of the front door and two in the window beside the door. Four shell casings, identified as .40-caliber Smith & Wesson, were found on the ground in a line from the front door to the street.
Both scenes were processed, and cases were forwarded to investigations.
Two walk-by shootings were reported 40 minutes apart at locations within 1.5 miles of each other early Sunday morning, according to reports from the Thomaston Police Department.
No injuries were reported, and no arrests had been made at press time.
Officers were dispatched to Triune Village Apartments just after 1 a.m. Sunday in reference to gunshots and discovered multiple shell casings on the ground and bullet holes in the living room and bedroom windows at unit 226. A resident stated she was watching television in her bedroom and heard four gunshots, but did not see a vehicle.
A second resident told officers she was in bed with her son when she heard the shots, and a third witness said she was sleeping and remembered being pushed to the floor for safety.
Four shell casings were collected, and investigators documented two bullet holes in the living room window and one in the bedroom window of the apartment.
Less than 40 minutes later, officers were dispatched to 209 Washington Street for a similar shooting and were given a description of the alleged offender by a threatened witness.
“[The witness] saw a dark colored vehicle drive by the house and stop,” according to the report. “A black male subject wearing gray sweatpants, black shoes and a gray hoody walked into the yard and approached him at the front door. The male subject kicked the door and started shooting at him… then fled the area.”
Investigators noted four bullet holes, two in the wood frame of the front door and two in the window beside the door. Four shell casings, identified as .40-caliber Smith & Wesson, were found on the ground in a line from the front door to the street.
Both scenes were processed, and cases were forwarded to investigations.
Batchelor Found Guilty, Sentenced To 2 Life Terms
David Scott Batchelor
Published 2-6-2020
David Scott Batchelor was found guilty on all counts in Upson Superior Court last week and sentenced to serve two life terms in prison.
A jury found Batchelor, who already was serving an 18-year sentence for sexual exploitation of children in connection to computer-related distribution of child pornography, guilty of rape, aggravated sexual battery, incest, and child molestation. His daughter, now 15, took the stand and testified against him during the trial.
“As lawyers, we all have those cases that are so difficult that we are forever changed by them,” commented Chief Assistant District Attorney Marie Greene Broder. “Today marked the end of one of the most challenging cases that I have tried in my career. I am blown away by the bravery of the children that took the stand this week. They are true heroes.”
Broder prosecuted the case along with Assistant D.A. Ashton Fallin.
“I am beyond thankful for the love and support from my family during this trial,” Broder continued. “I am incredibly thankful for an office that worked so hard to see that this conviction became a reality. Thank you to the jurors who sat through extremely difficult testimony. Finally, thank you to a community who supported us and the family through the entire trial.”
During sentencing, Judge Fletcher Sams addressed 48-year-old Batchelor, saying, “Based on the evidence I have seen, you are a predator.”
“Crimes against children are real. They are devastating, they are traumatic, and they are hard,” Broder concluded. “May we, as advocates, never cease to try the hard cases, especially the ones involding children. I pray for all of the families involved. Both sides are hurting. But, most of all, I praise God for the strength of children who face monsters. That takes true courage.”
David Scott Batchelor was found guilty on all counts in Upson Superior Court last week and sentenced to serve two life terms in prison.
A jury found Batchelor, who already was serving an 18-year sentence for sexual exploitation of children in connection to computer-related distribution of child pornography, guilty of rape, aggravated sexual battery, incest, and child molestation. His daughter, now 15, took the stand and testified against him during the trial.
“As lawyers, we all have those cases that are so difficult that we are forever changed by them,” commented Chief Assistant District Attorney Marie Greene Broder. “Today marked the end of one of the most challenging cases that I have tried in my career. I am blown away by the bravery of the children that took the stand this week. They are true heroes.”
Broder prosecuted the case along with Assistant D.A. Ashton Fallin.
“I am beyond thankful for the love and support from my family during this trial,” Broder continued. “I am incredibly thankful for an office that worked so hard to see that this conviction became a reality. Thank you to the jurors who sat through extremely difficult testimony. Finally, thank you to a community who supported us and the family through the entire trial.”
During sentencing, Judge Fletcher Sams addressed 48-year-old Batchelor, saying, “Based on the evidence I have seen, you are a predator.”
“Crimes against children are real. They are devastating, they are traumatic, and they are hard,” Broder concluded. “May we, as advocates, never cease to try the hard cases, especially the ones involding children. I pray for all of the families involved. Both sides are hurting. But, most of all, I praise God for the strength of children who face monsters. That takes true courage.”
Coker Named Griffin Judicial Circuit 5th Judge
Benjamin D. Coker
Published 2-6-2020
District Attorney Benjamin D. Coker of Upson County has been named the fifth judge for the Griffin Judicial Circuit, a position created by the passage of House Bill 28 during the 2019 session of the Georgia General Assembly.
Coker was selected by Gov. Brian Kemp from a short list submitted by the Judicial Nominating Commission which included two other local officials, Maria Greene Broder, chief assistant district attorney, and Ben J. Miller, Jr., presiding judge of juvenile court for the circuit.
Coker has successfully prosecuted numerous high-profile cases since being elected circuit district attorney in 2017, including the 34-year-old cold case murder of Timothy Coggins. Coker’s overall conviction rate is better than 95 percent.
During his tenure, Coker has assisted law enforcement agencies with a variety of investigations, including wire taps and racketeering cases. As D.A., he personally handled hundreds of asset forfeitures removing hundreds of thousands of dollars from the hands of criminals and distributing the funds to law enforcement and victims of crimes.
Prior to being elected D.A., Coker was an assistant district attorney and office manager of both the Pike and Upson County offices. He said he considers it an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of the entire circuit.
Coker and his wife Christy reside with their four children in Upson County. He completed his undergraduate work at the University of Georgia and received his law degree from the Georgia State University School of Law.
He plans to set up his judicial chambers in the Upson County courthouse.
District Attorney Benjamin D. Coker of Upson County has been named the fifth judge for the Griffin Judicial Circuit, a position created by the passage of House Bill 28 during the 2019 session of the Georgia General Assembly.
Coker was selected by Gov. Brian Kemp from a short list submitted by the Judicial Nominating Commission which included two other local officials, Maria Greene Broder, chief assistant district attorney, and Ben J. Miller, Jr., presiding judge of juvenile court for the circuit.
Coker has successfully prosecuted numerous high-profile cases since being elected circuit district attorney in 2017, including the 34-year-old cold case murder of Timothy Coggins. Coker’s overall conviction rate is better than 95 percent.
During his tenure, Coker has assisted law enforcement agencies with a variety of investigations, including wire taps and racketeering cases. As D.A., he personally handled hundreds of asset forfeitures removing hundreds of thousands of dollars from the hands of criminals and distributing the funds to law enforcement and victims of crimes.
Prior to being elected D.A., Coker was an assistant district attorney and office manager of both the Pike and Upson County offices. He said he considers it an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of the entire circuit.
Coker and his wife Christy reside with their four children in Upson County. He completed his undergraduate work at the University of Georgia and received his law degree from the Georgia State University School of Law.
He plans to set up his judicial chambers in the Upson County courthouse.
Colby McRae Named 2020 STAR Student
STAR Teacher Bethany Norris and STAR Student Colby McRae. Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 1-30-2020
Upson Lee High School senior Colby Brooks McRae has been named the school’s 2020 PAGE STAR Student.
Doyle Allen, member of Thomaston Kiwanis Club and local STAR program sponsor, announced the honor at the club’s meeting. McRae earned the recognition for academic achievement and performance on the Scholastic Aptitude Test. He selected Bethany Norris as his STAR teacher.
The Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program, now in its 62nd year, is administered and promoted by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) Foundation. Since its inception, the STAR program has honored more than 27,500 students and the teachers they have selected as having had the most influence on their academic achievement.
To obtain the STAR nomination, high school seniors must have the highest score on a single test date on the S.A.T. and be in the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on grade point average.
“We are very proud of Colby and Mrs. Norris and the academic excellence demonstrated at Upson Lee High,” said Allen.
Upson Lee High School senior Colby Brooks McRae has been named the school’s 2020 PAGE STAR Student.
Doyle Allen, member of Thomaston Kiwanis Club and local STAR program sponsor, announced the honor at the club’s meeting. McRae earned the recognition for academic achievement and performance on the Scholastic Aptitude Test. He selected Bethany Norris as his STAR teacher.
The Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program, now in its 62nd year, is administered and promoted by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) Foundation. Since its inception, the STAR program has honored more than 27,500 students and the teachers they have selected as having had the most influence on their academic achievement.
To obtain the STAR nomination, high school seniors must have the highest score on a single test date on the S.A.T. and be in the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on grade point average.
“We are very proud of Colby and Mrs. Norris and the academic excellence demonstrated at Upson Lee High,” said Allen.
City to Move Forward With New TFD Plan
Published 1-30-2020
By Bridge Turner
Thomaston City Council members voted unanimously last week to move forward with a proposed plan to construct a new $2.5 million fire department, rejecting the possibility of renovating and expanding an existing municipal building to house TFD.
City Manager Russell Thompson said the topic was discussed during the council’s recent joint workshop when consideration was given to remodeling the structure which currently houses the pardons and parole board office on North Church Street. Architectural plans place the new fire department just north of the existing building, which would be incorporated into a potential “safety complex.”
Initial architect fees would be $115,000 to design a remodel, and final cost to renovate and expand would be “comparable” to constructing a completely new facility, according to Thompson, who warned against “throwing good money after bad.”
Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head agreed.
“You say the costs are comparable, but you never know what problems may come to light later in the building you’ve redone,” Head said. “We’ve seen it with the police department and, on a smaller scale, even the armory. My desire would be to start from scratch rather than renovate a shell.”
The city’s lease with the pardons and parole board ends June 30 and renewal is in question, according to Thompson, who recommended the council maintain its course toward a new facility.
“If it’s going to cost the same, we’d probably like to have new,” Councilman Ryan Tucker said before seconding a motion by Head.
Depending on lease renewal by the current tenants, the city will be faced with demolishing or repurposing the existing municipal building.
Work could start as early as spring on the new fire department, with an estimated completion time of nine months “after the first dirt is turned,” Thompson said.
In other business, council voted to appoint Steve Duke to the Office Building Authority and Jamesan Gramme, director of Thomaston-Upson Archives, to the Historical Preservation Commission.
Councilmembers discussed addendums to the city personnel policy to address demotions and limit employee time spent on social media, and also directed City Attorney Joel Bentley to upgrade an ordinance regarding “nuisance trees” in Thomaston.
By Bridge Turner
Thomaston City Council members voted unanimously last week to move forward with a proposed plan to construct a new $2.5 million fire department, rejecting the possibility of renovating and expanding an existing municipal building to house TFD.
City Manager Russell Thompson said the topic was discussed during the council’s recent joint workshop when consideration was given to remodeling the structure which currently houses the pardons and parole board office on North Church Street. Architectural plans place the new fire department just north of the existing building, which would be incorporated into a potential “safety complex.”
Initial architect fees would be $115,000 to design a remodel, and final cost to renovate and expand would be “comparable” to constructing a completely new facility, according to Thompson, who warned against “throwing good money after bad.”
Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head agreed.
“You say the costs are comparable, but you never know what problems may come to light later in the building you’ve redone,” Head said. “We’ve seen it with the police department and, on a smaller scale, even the armory. My desire would be to start from scratch rather than renovate a shell.”
The city’s lease with the pardons and parole board ends June 30 and renewal is in question, according to Thompson, who recommended the council maintain its course toward a new facility.
“If it’s going to cost the same, we’d probably like to have new,” Councilman Ryan Tucker said before seconding a motion by Head.
Depending on lease renewal by the current tenants, the city will be faced with demolishing or repurposing the existing municipal building.
Work could start as early as spring on the new fire department, with an estimated completion time of nine months “after the first dirt is turned,” Thompson said.
In other business, council voted to appoint Steve Duke to the Office Building Authority and Jamesan Gramme, director of Thomaston-Upson Archives, to the Historical Preservation Commission.
Councilmembers discussed addendums to the city personnel policy to address demotions and limit employee time spent on social media, and also directed City Attorney Joel Bentley to upgrade an ordinance regarding “nuisance trees” in Thomaston.
Murder Trial Set for March In Thomaston
L-R: Cameron Jones and Kiera Williams
Published 1-23-2020
A local man and an Atlanta woman will stand trial in Upson Superior Court in March for the murder of 46-year-old Roderick Crawford of Barnesville, according to Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Ben Coker.
Cameron Jones, 21, of Thomaston is scheduled for trial March 9 and 19-year-old Kiera Williams’ trial will start a week later on March 16.
Investigators said the pair were involved in an escort scam that resulted in victims being robbed when they intended to meet Williams for sex. Crawford left home Dec. 28, 2018 and his body was found Jan. 3, 2019 behind an abandoned mobile home in Lincoln Park. His car was found earlier in Clayton County.
Crawford was shot to death.
Jones and Williams were arrested in DeKalb County and charged with malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping and possession of a firearm during commission of a crime, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Williams also was wanted in connection with a second homicide in Forest Park. She faced charges of armed robbery, aggravated assault and murder in the death of 28-year-old Mario Rashad Edwards of Covington, who was found shot dead inside a vacant apartment Dec. 21, 2018.
There was additional security at the courthouse for Jones’ and Williams’ first appearance in court because of gang ties. Clayton County deputies discovered a plot by Jones to kill deputies transporting them to court.
A local man and an Atlanta woman will stand trial in Upson Superior Court in March for the murder of 46-year-old Roderick Crawford of Barnesville, according to Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Ben Coker.
Cameron Jones, 21, of Thomaston is scheduled for trial March 9 and 19-year-old Kiera Williams’ trial will start a week later on March 16.
Investigators said the pair were involved in an escort scam that resulted in victims being robbed when they intended to meet Williams for sex. Crawford left home Dec. 28, 2018 and his body was found Jan. 3, 2019 behind an abandoned mobile home in Lincoln Park. His car was found earlier in Clayton County.
Crawford was shot to death.
Jones and Williams were arrested in DeKalb County and charged with malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping and possession of a firearm during commission of a crime, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Williams also was wanted in connection with a second homicide in Forest Park. She faced charges of armed robbery, aggravated assault and murder in the death of 28-year-old Mario Rashad Edwards of Covington, who was found shot dead inside a vacant apartment Dec. 21, 2018.
There was additional security at the courthouse for Jones’ and Williams’ first appearance in court because of gang ties. Clayton County deputies discovered a plot by Jones to kill deputies transporting them to court.
Remembering a Civic Leader
Published 1-23-2020
Despite freezing temperatures, dozens of local citizens gathered to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday.
After a small celebration on the courthouse square, participants walked from the square to Upson Lee Middle School for a MLK Day celebration. Donisha Gray was the guest speaker. See more photos in the 1-23-2020 edition of The Upson Beacon on Page 14 or on The Upson Beacon's Facebook page.
Despite freezing temperatures, dozens of local citizens gathered to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday.
After a small celebration on the courthouse square, participants walked from the square to Upson Lee Middle School for a MLK Day celebration. Donisha Gray was the guest speaker. See more photos in the 1-23-2020 edition of The Upson Beacon on Page 14 or on The Upson Beacon's Facebook page.
microburst damages flint river property
Published 1-16-2020
A suspected microburst tore through Flint River properties located off Pleasant Valley Road during a thunderstorm in Upson County last Saturday.
Emergency Management Agency Director Martha Ann McCarty visited the area Monday and said she suspects it was a microburst of straight-line winds, but sent pictures to the state for confirmation. The Beacon received reports of hundreds of fallen trees and severe damage to several properties in that area.
A microburst is a pattern of intense winds that descends from rain clouds, hits the ground, and fans out – often, but not always associated with thunderstorms or strong rains. The National Weather Service states that microbursts are not as widely recognized as tornadoes, but they can cause comparable and, in some cases, worse damage than some tornadoes.
Wind speeds as high as 150 miles per hour are possible in extreme microburst cases.
Sheldon and Barbie Crane’s cabin and porch collapsed from a large fallen tree during the storm. The Cranes’ cabin would have collapsed completely but a boat given to Sheldon from his “pawpaw” supported one side. Shelden said, “I am more upset about my pawpaw’s boat being crushed than I am about the cabin.”
A large tree fell and covered Kevin and Rinda Hamilton’s cabin located next door to the Cranes. Other properties experienced fallen trees and damage to sheds and docks, and a camper was flipped upside down.
A suspected microburst tore through Flint River properties located off Pleasant Valley Road during a thunderstorm in Upson County last Saturday.
Emergency Management Agency Director Martha Ann McCarty visited the area Monday and said she suspects it was a microburst of straight-line winds, but sent pictures to the state for confirmation. The Beacon received reports of hundreds of fallen trees and severe damage to several properties in that area.
A microburst is a pattern of intense winds that descends from rain clouds, hits the ground, and fans out – often, but not always associated with thunderstorms or strong rains. The National Weather Service states that microbursts are not as widely recognized as tornadoes, but they can cause comparable and, in some cases, worse damage than some tornadoes.
Wind speeds as high as 150 miles per hour are possible in extreme microburst cases.
Sheldon and Barbie Crane’s cabin and porch collapsed from a large fallen tree during the storm. The Cranes’ cabin would have collapsed completely but a boat given to Sheldon from his “pawpaw” supported one side. Shelden said, “I am more upset about my pawpaw’s boat being crushed than I am about the cabin.”
A large tree fell and covered Kevin and Rinda Hamilton’s cabin located next door to the Cranes. Other properties experienced fallen trees and damage to sheds and docks, and a camper was flipped upside down.
After 38 years, sheryl is coming home
Brooks County officials delayed burial of "Jane Doe" for almost three months trying to identify her.
Closure is Emotional Conflict for Local Family of 'Jane Doe' Murdered in Brooks County
Published 1-16-2020
by Bridge Turner
“If it weren’t for divine intervention, we would not be here today.”
Johnnie Hay said those words, spoken by an agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, immediately gave her peace when she and her family met with officials in Quitman, Ga. last week to end a 38-year search for her sister, Sheryl Hammack.
Johnnie, now living in Meansville, was 11 when her sister left home in late 1981 to travel with the fair. Middle sister Lynn Johnson, who still lives in Thomaston, was 17 at the time, and has a clear memory of the weeks that followed Sheryl’s departure.
“She left right at the end of September or first of October in 1981,” Lynn said of her then 18-year-old sister. “I remember she called us two to three times a week. After about three weeks, she said she was coming home for Christmas, and that’s the last time we heard from her.”
Lynn said her mother, Kathleen Hammack, bought a gift for Sheryl that Christmas, and the gift was under the tree every Christmas until recent years.
“I think Mom always held out hope,” Johnnie said. “I personally didn’t. I always felt like she was deceased. That was my way of dealing with it. It was easier than thinking she was living on the street somewhere or being in sex trafficking. But even until this happened, you still had that small bit of hope in the back of your mind.”
Johnnie and Lynn describe their mother, who also lives in Thomaston, as a “very strong woman, but emotionally drained.” Now 81, she is “handling it as well as can be expected,” the daughters agreed.
They may have thought the worst, but the close-knit, faith-based family never stopped looking for Sheryl. Johnnie said she searched websites, watched television programs about missing persons, and received calls from her friends and co-workers any time they saw someone resembling her sister. Lynn said the family posted a picture of Sheryl on Facebook every February for her birthday.
She would have been 57 next month.
“Birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas, were horrible,” Lynn said. “I don’t like to see or even hear about a fair.”
“I know this is odd, but I still love the smell of the fair,” Johnnie said, tapping into a different sensory emotion. “Every time I smell diesel fuel, it makes me think of her. I love the fair because of that.”
The sisters have made certain that Sheryl will not be forgotten by reminding their children that they have another aunt.
On Halloween 1981, the body of a white female was discovered beside a small, dirt lane entrance to a corn field near Dixie, Ga. The victim, described as 5-foot-2, 105 pounds with shoulder length brown hair and hazel eyes, was partially covered by limbs and foliage. Her death was determined to be from a stab wound to her abdomen and associated strangulation, according to GBI reports.
The Bunting family of Brooks County insisted that she not be buried in a pauper’s grave, but instead in their family plot in a dignified manner. Her likeness was carved into the marble slab, along with the phrase, “Known only to God.”
After a fateful series of events led the family to this “Jane Doe” murder, DNA tests confirmed, on Dec. 19 last year, that the victim was Shirlene “Sheryl” Ann Hammack.
“It’s closure, but 38 years is a long time,” Lynn said softly, looking through tear-filled eyes. “The death was still hard to take.”
“It’s a sense of relief, but an ending that we didn’t want to deal with,” Johnnie added, also fighting tears. “Our faith is strong, and that’s what has kept us going.”
The sisters said they met the now retired law enforcement officer who arrested Sheryl’s killer, then 52-year-old George Newsome, in 1981. Newsome escaped from the Brooks County Jail and remained a fugitive until he was recaptured in January 1983 in Alabama. After being captured, he admitted to the homicide, but officials did not connect it to Sheryl’s disappearance.
Newsome died in prison in August 1988, having never revealed the identity of his victim.
Published 1-16-2020
by Bridge Turner
“If it weren’t for divine intervention, we would not be here today.”
Johnnie Hay said those words, spoken by an agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, immediately gave her peace when she and her family met with officials in Quitman, Ga. last week to end a 38-year search for her sister, Sheryl Hammack.
Johnnie, now living in Meansville, was 11 when her sister left home in late 1981 to travel with the fair. Middle sister Lynn Johnson, who still lives in Thomaston, was 17 at the time, and has a clear memory of the weeks that followed Sheryl’s departure.
“She left right at the end of September or first of October in 1981,” Lynn said of her then 18-year-old sister. “I remember she called us two to three times a week. After about three weeks, she said she was coming home for Christmas, and that’s the last time we heard from her.”
Lynn said her mother, Kathleen Hammack, bought a gift for Sheryl that Christmas, and the gift was under the tree every Christmas until recent years.
“I think Mom always held out hope,” Johnnie said. “I personally didn’t. I always felt like she was deceased. That was my way of dealing with it. It was easier than thinking she was living on the street somewhere or being in sex trafficking. But even until this happened, you still had that small bit of hope in the back of your mind.”
Johnnie and Lynn describe their mother, who also lives in Thomaston, as a “very strong woman, but emotionally drained.” Now 81, she is “handling it as well as can be expected,” the daughters agreed.
They may have thought the worst, but the close-knit, faith-based family never stopped looking for Sheryl. Johnnie said she searched websites, watched television programs about missing persons, and received calls from her friends and co-workers any time they saw someone resembling her sister. Lynn said the family posted a picture of Sheryl on Facebook every February for her birthday.
She would have been 57 next month.
“Birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas, were horrible,” Lynn said. “I don’t like to see or even hear about a fair.”
“I know this is odd, but I still love the smell of the fair,” Johnnie said, tapping into a different sensory emotion. “Every time I smell diesel fuel, it makes me think of her. I love the fair because of that.”
The sisters have made certain that Sheryl will not be forgotten by reminding their children that they have another aunt.
On Halloween 1981, the body of a white female was discovered beside a small, dirt lane entrance to a corn field near Dixie, Ga. The victim, described as 5-foot-2, 105 pounds with shoulder length brown hair and hazel eyes, was partially covered by limbs and foliage. Her death was determined to be from a stab wound to her abdomen and associated strangulation, according to GBI reports.
The Bunting family of Brooks County insisted that she not be buried in a pauper’s grave, but instead in their family plot in a dignified manner. Her likeness was carved into the marble slab, along with the phrase, “Known only to God.”
After a fateful series of events led the family to this “Jane Doe” murder, DNA tests confirmed, on Dec. 19 last year, that the victim was Shirlene “Sheryl” Ann Hammack.
“It’s closure, but 38 years is a long time,” Lynn said softly, looking through tear-filled eyes. “The death was still hard to take.”
“It’s a sense of relief, but an ending that we didn’t want to deal with,” Johnnie added, also fighting tears. “Our faith is strong, and that’s what has kept us going.”
The sisters said they met the now retired law enforcement officer who arrested Sheryl’s killer, then 52-year-old George Newsome, in 1981. Newsome escaped from the Brooks County Jail and remained a fugitive until he was recaptured in January 1983 in Alabama. After being captured, he admitted to the homicide, but officials did not connect it to Sheryl’s disappearance.
Newsome died in prison in August 1988, having never revealed the identity of his victim.
Info Sought on Missing Woman and Caregiver
Missing: Linda Kimble
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Caregiver Kishia Mitchell
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Linda Kimble
Published 1-9-2020
A Culloden woman with family ties to Upson County and her caregiver have been missing for three months following a report filed by her daughter in early October 2019.
Linda Kimble, 59, was reported missing by her daughter, Richetta Henderson, after being placed into the care of Kishia Mitchell, an Auxilium Care, Inc. worker. According to Gwinnett County Police, the last known address for Mitchell is now a vacant property.
Police added that Mitchell has an active warrant for probation violation, but has not been charged in relation to Kimble’s missing status.
Henderson, along with local family members Faye Williams, Edith Williams, Janet Kendall and Chandria Taylor, continue to search for answers.
“I thought that she [Mitchell] was a perfect person for my mom and all of a sudden there’s no more communication,” Kimble’s daughter said. “And it got to the point where I had to call the police and file a missing persons report.”
Following is a story by Asia Simone Burns which appeared on the Atlanta Journal-Constitution website:
Gwinnett County police have taken out warrants against a home health care worker after multiple people with special needs who were supposed to be in her care told authorities they hadn’t eaten for days.
The health care worker is also tied to the disappearance of a woman, officials said.
Kishia Mitchell is facing two counts of exploitation of a disabled or elder person and two counts of unlicensed personal care home, Gwinnett police spokeswoman Cpl. Michele Pihera said in a news release. The case was opened Oct. 4 when Linda Kimble’s daughter reported her missing, according to a Gwinnett police report.
The daughter said Kimble, 59, was discharged from Eastside Emory Hospital in August. Her mother was then put into the care of Mitchell, an Auxilium Care Inc. worker. The woman told police she had tried to visit her mother several times “but Kishia made several excuses,” the incident report said.
“Kishia told (Kimble’s daughter) to give her mother three weeks to get settled in before visiting her,” the report said. “When (Kimble’s daughter) asked Kishia for a phone number or address to see and speak with her mom, she stopped replying.”
Eventually, the woman drove to an address in Stone Mountain where Mitchell had instructed her to mail a check. The place was vacant, the report said. The woman called Mitchell and said she was at the Stone Mountain address, but Mitchell told her that her mother had moved. She again refused to provide an address.
A Gwinnett investigator began to search for more information about Mitchell and found that Auxilium Care had been permanently closed. When a Gwinnett police officer called Mitchell to ask about Kimble’s whereabouts, she said Kimble was at a location in Snellville. That property was vacant, police said.
On Oct. 11, police were sent to a Wells Fargo bank on Rockbridge Road on another call related to Mitchell.
A 26-year-old man walked into the bank and said he hadn’t seen Mitchell, who was his caretaker, for two days. He told investigators he hadn’t eaten.
Officers took him back to the place he said was his home and found nine other adults with “varying levels of special needs,” Pihera said.
“There was no caretaker present, and officers learned that the residents had not eaten or had access to medications in several days,” she said.
Eight of the nine people were relocated using Temporary Emergency Relocation Funds, and the ninth person declined relocation. Kimble was not among the residents found in the house.
Warrants for Mitchell’s arrest were obtained a week later, records show.
“At this time, detectives are still seeking the whereabouts of both Linda Kimble and Kishia Mitchell,” Pihera said. “It is imperative that Linda is located so we can make sure her physical and medical needs are being met.”
Kimble, who suffers from dementia, is described as a black woman with black hair and brown eyes. She is about 5-foot-6 and weighs roughly 170 pounds, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300. Tipsters can remain anonymous, and be eligible for rewards of up to $2,000, by contacting Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477, texting information to 274637 or visiting the Crime Stoppers website.
The Gwinnett County PD detective associated with the case failed to return calls from The Upson Beacon requesting updated developments regarding the disappearance.
“Give the police whatever information they need,” said Henderson in a message to Mitchell. “Turn yourself in.”
Henderson asks that anyone with information contact her at 678-764-8633, 706-975-4080 or 478-951-0134, the fugitive unit at 770-822-3151, or findinglindakimble@gmail.com.
A Culloden woman with family ties to Upson County and her caregiver have been missing for three months following a report filed by her daughter in early October 2019.
Linda Kimble, 59, was reported missing by her daughter, Richetta Henderson, after being placed into the care of Kishia Mitchell, an Auxilium Care, Inc. worker. According to Gwinnett County Police, the last known address for Mitchell is now a vacant property.
Police added that Mitchell has an active warrant for probation violation, but has not been charged in relation to Kimble’s missing status.
Henderson, along with local family members Faye Williams, Edith Williams, Janet Kendall and Chandria Taylor, continue to search for answers.
“I thought that she [Mitchell] was a perfect person for my mom and all of a sudden there’s no more communication,” Kimble’s daughter said. “And it got to the point where I had to call the police and file a missing persons report.”
Following is a story by Asia Simone Burns which appeared on the Atlanta Journal-Constitution website:
Gwinnett County police have taken out warrants against a home health care worker after multiple people with special needs who were supposed to be in her care told authorities they hadn’t eaten for days.
The health care worker is also tied to the disappearance of a woman, officials said.
Kishia Mitchell is facing two counts of exploitation of a disabled or elder person and two counts of unlicensed personal care home, Gwinnett police spokeswoman Cpl. Michele Pihera said in a news release. The case was opened Oct. 4 when Linda Kimble’s daughter reported her missing, according to a Gwinnett police report.
The daughter said Kimble, 59, was discharged from Eastside Emory Hospital in August. Her mother was then put into the care of Mitchell, an Auxilium Care Inc. worker. The woman told police she had tried to visit her mother several times “but Kishia made several excuses,” the incident report said.
“Kishia told (Kimble’s daughter) to give her mother three weeks to get settled in before visiting her,” the report said. “When (Kimble’s daughter) asked Kishia for a phone number or address to see and speak with her mom, she stopped replying.”
Eventually, the woman drove to an address in Stone Mountain where Mitchell had instructed her to mail a check. The place was vacant, the report said. The woman called Mitchell and said she was at the Stone Mountain address, but Mitchell told her that her mother had moved. She again refused to provide an address.
A Gwinnett investigator began to search for more information about Mitchell and found that Auxilium Care had been permanently closed. When a Gwinnett police officer called Mitchell to ask about Kimble’s whereabouts, she said Kimble was at a location in Snellville. That property was vacant, police said.
On Oct. 11, police were sent to a Wells Fargo bank on Rockbridge Road on another call related to Mitchell.
A 26-year-old man walked into the bank and said he hadn’t seen Mitchell, who was his caretaker, for two days. He told investigators he hadn’t eaten.
Officers took him back to the place he said was his home and found nine other adults with “varying levels of special needs,” Pihera said.
“There was no caretaker present, and officers learned that the residents had not eaten or had access to medications in several days,” she said.
Eight of the nine people were relocated using Temporary Emergency Relocation Funds, and the ninth person declined relocation. Kimble was not among the residents found in the house.
Warrants for Mitchell’s arrest were obtained a week later, records show.
“At this time, detectives are still seeking the whereabouts of both Linda Kimble and Kishia Mitchell,” Pihera said. “It is imperative that Linda is located so we can make sure her physical and medical needs are being met.”
Kimble, who suffers from dementia, is described as a black woman with black hair and brown eyes. She is about 5-foot-6 and weighs roughly 170 pounds, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300. Tipsters can remain anonymous, and be eligible for rewards of up to $2,000, by contacting Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477, texting information to 274637 or visiting the Crime Stoppers website.
The Gwinnett County PD detective associated with the case failed to return calls from The Upson Beacon requesting updated developments regarding the disappearance.
“Give the police whatever information they need,” said Henderson in a message to Mitchell. “Turn yourself in.”
Henderson asks that anyone with information contact her at 678-764-8633, 706-975-4080 or 478-951-0134, the fugitive unit at 770-822-3151, or findinglindakimble@gmail.com.
Upson-Lee Elementary Named 2019-20 Reward School
Upson-Lee Elementary staff pictured after being named a 2019-20 Georgia Reward School.
Published 1-9-2020
According to the Georgia Department of Education and the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, Upson-Lee Elementary is “beating the odds” and has been named a Georgia Department of Education 2019-20 Reward School.
Reward Schools, as designated by the GaDOE, are among the greatest improving five percent of Title 1 Schools throughout the state. ULES posted a 14.1 point gain this year in the CCRPI, rising from a score of 62.4 in 2018 to 76.5 in 2019.
In addition to improving CCRPI scores, Reward Schools must maintain or improve the performance of certain subgroups, to include economically disadvantaged, English language learners, and students with disabilities.
Thomaston-Upson Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico and Assistant Superintendent Julie English visited ULES on Friday, Dec. 20 to deliver the good news.
“This is a huge accomplishment, and we appreciate you all,” English stated as she addressed the faculty and staff.
Dr. Derico said, “We are extremely proud of the ULES faculty, staff, students, and their families for meeting the challenges, for overcoming barriers, and for ensuring that we provide excellence in education at all times to all students.”
According to the Georgia Department of Education and the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, Upson-Lee Elementary is “beating the odds” and has been named a Georgia Department of Education 2019-20 Reward School.
Reward Schools, as designated by the GaDOE, are among the greatest improving five percent of Title 1 Schools throughout the state. ULES posted a 14.1 point gain this year in the CCRPI, rising from a score of 62.4 in 2018 to 76.5 in 2019.
In addition to improving CCRPI scores, Reward Schools must maintain or improve the performance of certain subgroups, to include economically disadvantaged, English language learners, and students with disabilities.
Thomaston-Upson Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico and Assistant Superintendent Julie English visited ULES on Friday, Dec. 20 to deliver the good news.
“This is a huge accomplishment, and we appreciate you all,” English stated as she addressed the faculty and staff.
Dr. Derico said, “We are extremely proud of the ULES faculty, staff, students, and their families for meeting the challenges, for overcoming barriers, and for ensuring that we provide excellence in education at all times to all students.”
K-9 “Beno” Joins TPD Force
Published 1-2-2020
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston Police Department is proud to announce the addition of K-9 Officer Beno, a sizeable male German shepherd, to the local force.
Beno was introduced to Mayor J.D. Stallings and the city council in person by his handler, Patrolman Jared Fordham, and Chief Mike Richardson at a recent meeting at City Hall.
The new four-legged officer is from Lask, Poland and was shipped to Highland Canine of Harmony, N.C., where he and Patrolman Fordham trained together for four weeks. Beno lives with Fordham, rides to and from each work shift with him, and the two train together on a daily basis.
“Typically I will feed him before work, complete obedience training either before work or at the beginning of the shift, then make traffic stops and answer calls for service as usual, with Beno in my patrol car,” Fordham said.
Beno does not require a special diet or nutrition plan, but his portion of the patrol vehicle is customized. The rear is divided with half being for Beno and the other half providing a seat for prisoner transport, according to Fordham. Beno’s kennel also has lights and a fan to regulate temperature.
The canine already has begun pulling his weight on the force. He has detected marijuana a half dozen times during traffic stops, resulting in three arrests; detected powder cocaine on a traffic stop, one arrest; detected methamphetamine on two traffic stops, one arrest per stop; and detected meth while sniffing a hotel room, another arrest.
All of that was accomplished during his first 10 days on the job.
The Upson County Sheriff’s Office has its own K-9 officer, but there’s no law that says they can’t work together.
“As with all of our resources, the police department is always willing to assist the sheriff’s office, state patrol, or other law enforcement,” Fordham said. “The sheriff’s office has also allowed their canine to assist the police department in the past. Beno has already assisted GSP, but has not been requested for the sheriff’s office yet.”
Beno is extremely friendly, according to his handler, and is trained to respond to commands in both English and German languages. Fordham emphasized that his name is pronounced “Ben-o” and not “Bean-o.”
“He will allow anyone to pet him, so if you see us and want to meet him, just ask,” Fordham said. “Beno also does well with kids.”
The Upson Ministerial Association generously requested to sponsor/donate a ballistic patrol vest for Beno. The custom fit vest is being produced at a cost of approximately $1,200, according to an estimate by Fordham.
TPD’s previous K-9 officer, named Ryder, suffered from a congenital health condition that prevented him from working in the field. City Finance Director Lonnie Joyce and his wife adopted Ryder and gave him specialized care, including treatment at Auburn University. Despite Joyce’s efforts, Ryder died in Spring of 2019.
“He was so sweet, I don’t think he was cut out for police work,” Joyce said. “He was a special dog.”
Ryder was guaranteed by his breeder, so the warranty covered the cost of his replacement, Beno, and Fordham’s training. Sadly, the warranty could not ease the painful loss experienced by the Joyce family.
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston Police Department is proud to announce the addition of K-9 Officer Beno, a sizeable male German shepherd, to the local force.
Beno was introduced to Mayor J.D. Stallings and the city council in person by his handler, Patrolman Jared Fordham, and Chief Mike Richardson at a recent meeting at City Hall.
The new four-legged officer is from Lask, Poland and was shipped to Highland Canine of Harmony, N.C., where he and Patrolman Fordham trained together for four weeks. Beno lives with Fordham, rides to and from each work shift with him, and the two train together on a daily basis.
“Typically I will feed him before work, complete obedience training either before work or at the beginning of the shift, then make traffic stops and answer calls for service as usual, with Beno in my patrol car,” Fordham said.
Beno does not require a special diet or nutrition plan, but his portion of the patrol vehicle is customized. The rear is divided with half being for Beno and the other half providing a seat for prisoner transport, according to Fordham. Beno’s kennel also has lights and a fan to regulate temperature.
The canine already has begun pulling his weight on the force. He has detected marijuana a half dozen times during traffic stops, resulting in three arrests; detected powder cocaine on a traffic stop, one arrest; detected methamphetamine on two traffic stops, one arrest per stop; and detected meth while sniffing a hotel room, another arrest.
All of that was accomplished during his first 10 days on the job.
The Upson County Sheriff’s Office has its own K-9 officer, but there’s no law that says they can’t work together.
“As with all of our resources, the police department is always willing to assist the sheriff’s office, state patrol, or other law enforcement,” Fordham said. “The sheriff’s office has also allowed their canine to assist the police department in the past. Beno has already assisted GSP, but has not been requested for the sheriff’s office yet.”
Beno is extremely friendly, according to his handler, and is trained to respond to commands in both English and German languages. Fordham emphasized that his name is pronounced “Ben-o” and not “Bean-o.”
“He will allow anyone to pet him, so if you see us and want to meet him, just ask,” Fordham said. “Beno also does well with kids.”
The Upson Ministerial Association generously requested to sponsor/donate a ballistic patrol vest for Beno. The custom fit vest is being produced at a cost of approximately $1,200, according to an estimate by Fordham.
TPD’s previous K-9 officer, named Ryder, suffered from a congenital health condition that prevented him from working in the field. City Finance Director Lonnie Joyce and his wife adopted Ryder and gave him specialized care, including treatment at Auburn University. Despite Joyce’s efforts, Ryder died in Spring of 2019.
“He was so sweet, I don’t think he was cut out for police work,” Joyce said. “He was a special dog.”
Ryder was guaranteed by his breeder, so the warranty covered the cost of his replacement, Beno, and Fordham’s training. Sadly, the warranty could not ease the painful loss experienced by the Joyce family.
SCTC Nursing Program Now Being Offered at Thomaston Location
Published 1-2-2020
Southern Crescent Technical College has officially been approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing to expand the associate degree nursing (RN) program to the Flint River Campus in Thomaston.
The nursing program is currently offered at the SCTC Henry County Center. Twenty qualified students have been accepted into this new cohort being offered on the Flint River Campus beginning in January for Spring Semester 2020.
“The approval of this expansion of SCTC's associate degree nursing program marks a significant gain for our college and community in meeting the demand for qualified registered nurses,” said Dr. Alvetta P. Thomas, SCTC president. “This approval results from several years of planning and strong support from both our community and our local healthcare partners.”
The new cohort will be housed in newly renovated Building A on the Flint River Campus. The renovated space will feature state-of-the-art equipment, along with a simulation room where students will use their knowledge to replicate “real life” scenarios. Simulation allows students to “practice” critical thinking skills, psychomotor skills and decision-making skills in a safe and controlled environment.
SCTC Dean for Allied Health Kimberly Register stated, “With the expansion to our Flint River Campus, Southern Crescent Technical College is enhancing our high-quality, high-demand associate degree nursing program and making it available to more students. Along with the strong support from our highly educated nursing faculty, we are confident that the program expansion will be successful and will open opportunities for many qualified students. Our goal is to continue to graduate exceptional nurses who are both clinically competent and also possess excellent leadership skills.”
Nursing has also been recognized as a high demand career in Governor Deal’s High Demand Career Initiatives report for the state of Georgia, resulting in additional financial aid opportunities for students through the Hope Career Grant. With projected state and nationwide shortages, the development and implementation of additional training programs is critical.
Angie Ballard, nursing department chair at SCTC, said, “The nursing shortage in the state of Georgia is reaching critical levels. Our focus is to continue creating a culture of success within our existing program by expanding to the Flint River Campus. We anticipate more applicants and graduates from our program, which will help bridge the gap between the workforce needs in both our region and state. This is truly an exciting time for our college and students!”
In addition to RN at the Henry County Center, SCTC currently offers practical nursing (LPN) programs on both the Griffin and Flint River campuses. The ASN program will allow students the option to pursue an advanced level of nursing by earning associate’s degrees and gaining the skills and knowledge needed to practice as registered nurses. Graduates of the program will be qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
For more information on the ASN (RN) program, please contact 770.229.3320 or ASN@sctech.edu.
Southern Crescent Technical College has officially been approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing to expand the associate degree nursing (RN) program to the Flint River Campus in Thomaston.
The nursing program is currently offered at the SCTC Henry County Center. Twenty qualified students have been accepted into this new cohort being offered on the Flint River Campus beginning in January for Spring Semester 2020.
“The approval of this expansion of SCTC's associate degree nursing program marks a significant gain for our college and community in meeting the demand for qualified registered nurses,” said Dr. Alvetta P. Thomas, SCTC president. “This approval results from several years of planning and strong support from both our community and our local healthcare partners.”
The new cohort will be housed in newly renovated Building A on the Flint River Campus. The renovated space will feature state-of-the-art equipment, along with a simulation room where students will use their knowledge to replicate “real life” scenarios. Simulation allows students to “practice” critical thinking skills, psychomotor skills and decision-making skills in a safe and controlled environment.
SCTC Dean for Allied Health Kimberly Register stated, “With the expansion to our Flint River Campus, Southern Crescent Technical College is enhancing our high-quality, high-demand associate degree nursing program and making it available to more students. Along with the strong support from our highly educated nursing faculty, we are confident that the program expansion will be successful and will open opportunities for many qualified students. Our goal is to continue to graduate exceptional nurses who are both clinically competent and also possess excellent leadership skills.”
Nursing has also been recognized as a high demand career in Governor Deal’s High Demand Career Initiatives report for the state of Georgia, resulting in additional financial aid opportunities for students through the Hope Career Grant. With projected state and nationwide shortages, the development and implementation of additional training programs is critical.
Angie Ballard, nursing department chair at SCTC, said, “The nursing shortage in the state of Georgia is reaching critical levels. Our focus is to continue creating a culture of success within our existing program by expanding to the Flint River Campus. We anticipate more applicants and graduates from our program, which will help bridge the gap between the workforce needs in both our region and state. This is truly an exciting time for our college and students!”
In addition to RN at the Henry County Center, SCTC currently offers practical nursing (LPN) programs on both the Griffin and Flint River campuses. The ASN program will allow students the option to pursue an advanced level of nursing by earning associate’s degrees and gaining the skills and knowledge needed to practice as registered nurses. Graduates of the program will be qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
For more information on the ASN (RN) program, please contact 770.229.3320 or ASN@sctech.edu.
GOHS: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
Published 12-26-2019
If alcohol will be part of your holiday celebrations, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety is reminding you not to drink and drive.
State officials recently began working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled over campaign. That means the state’s year-round “zero tolerance” policy on driving under the influence will be in force through the end of the year.
“Consider this your warning because state troopers, sheriff’s deputies and police officers are going to arrest all impaired drivers they find on the road,” GOHS Director Allen Poole said. “If alcohol is going to be part of your holiday plans, please include a plan for a sober ride with a designated driver, ride-share service or cab before the party starts.”
Figures from the NHTSA show 839 people across the U.S. were killed in car accidents that involved a drunk driver in December 2018. The GOHS said more of those fatalities happened between Christmas and New Year than during any other holiday last year.
About 25 percent of the 375 traffic accident fatalities in Georgia in 2018 involved alcohol impairment, according to state officials.
The GOHS also reminds non-drinkers to use extra caution when driving during the holidays.
“The holidays are a busy time with so many of us trying to get so much done in a short period of time, and we want to remind people to avoid rushing on the road by obeying the speed limit and complying with Georgia’s hands-free law,” Pool said. “And always remember the best defense against a drunk, distracted or speeding driver is a buckled seat belt.”
State officials are urging drivers who do consume alcohol during the holidays to take advantage of AAA’s “Tow-To-Go” program, where drivers who become intoxicated can arrange to get a free ride and have their vehicle towed for free, up to 10 miles. The service will be available from now until Jan. 2.
Drivers can find information about the program at autoclubsouth.aaa.com/safety/tow_to_go.aspx or by calling 855-2-TOW-2-GO.
Other tips the GOHS is offering drivers during the holidays include:
>Remember even one alcoholic beverage is too many.
>Serve non-alcoholic drinks at holiday parties to encourage designated drivers and don’t hesitate to take keys away from anyone who has consumed alcohol.
>Call 911 or send a message to *GSP if you see a dunk driver on the roads.
If alcohol will be part of your holiday celebrations, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety is reminding you not to drink and drive.
State officials recently began working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled over campaign. That means the state’s year-round “zero tolerance” policy on driving under the influence will be in force through the end of the year.
“Consider this your warning because state troopers, sheriff’s deputies and police officers are going to arrest all impaired drivers they find on the road,” GOHS Director Allen Poole said. “If alcohol is going to be part of your holiday plans, please include a plan for a sober ride with a designated driver, ride-share service or cab before the party starts.”
Figures from the NHTSA show 839 people across the U.S. were killed in car accidents that involved a drunk driver in December 2018. The GOHS said more of those fatalities happened between Christmas and New Year than during any other holiday last year.
About 25 percent of the 375 traffic accident fatalities in Georgia in 2018 involved alcohol impairment, according to state officials.
The GOHS also reminds non-drinkers to use extra caution when driving during the holidays.
“The holidays are a busy time with so many of us trying to get so much done in a short period of time, and we want to remind people to avoid rushing on the road by obeying the speed limit and complying with Georgia’s hands-free law,” Pool said. “And always remember the best defense against a drunk, distracted or speeding driver is a buckled seat belt.”
State officials are urging drivers who do consume alcohol during the holidays to take advantage of AAA’s “Tow-To-Go” program, where drivers who become intoxicated can arrange to get a free ride and have their vehicle towed for free, up to 10 miles. The service will be available from now until Jan. 2.
Drivers can find information about the program at autoclubsouth.aaa.com/safety/tow_to_go.aspx or by calling 855-2-TOW-2-GO.
Other tips the GOHS is offering drivers during the holidays include:
>Remember even one alcoholic beverage is too many.
>Serve non-alcoholic drinks at holiday parties to encourage designated drivers and don’t hesitate to take keys away from anyone who has consumed alcohol.
>Call 911 or send a message to *GSP if you see a dunk driver on the roads.
Dunkin’ Opens in Time for 2020
Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 12-26-2019
Dunkin’ Donuts opened its doors in Thomaston at 5 a.m. on Dec. 16. The line outside the door began at approximately 7:30 p.m. the night before, and the first 100 people in line received a year’s worth of free coffee coupons. The Thomaston location is one of the first Dunkin’ sites to have the “next generation” design. A few of the new items in Dunkin’s new generation stores include an open concept design, bar style seating, and bar style coffee taps. A ribbon cutting was held to commemorate opening day at the Thomaston location. Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 12-26-2019
Dunkin’ Donuts opened its doors in Thomaston at 5 a.m. on Dec. 16. The line outside the door began at approximately 7:30 p.m. the night before, and the first 100 people in line received a year’s worth of free coffee coupons. The Thomaston location is one of the first Dunkin’ sites to have the “next generation” design. A few of the new items in Dunkin’s new generation stores include an open concept design, bar style seating, and bar style coffee taps. A ribbon cutting was held to commemorate opening day at the Thomaston location. Photo by Luke Haney.
City Adopts $33 Million 2020 Budget
Includes 5% Raise for PD & Linemen, Tentative 1 Mill Tax Increase for New FD
Published 12-12-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council voted unanimously last week to adopt a $33 million operating budget for 2020 which includes a two percent raise for all employees and an additional three percent for certified law enforcement and electrical linemen.
Following the vote, one councilmember appropriately commented, “Finally.”
A decision was reached after weeks of debate surrounding excessive turnover in the Thomaston Police Department which has accounted for almost one-third attrition on the force. Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head has repeatedly pushed for the five percent raise, and an outcry from local residents and officials during a public hearing prior to last week’s meeting seemed to tip the scales.
In the previous December meeting, council leaned toward a three percent hike across the board.
“When I walked out of the last meeting, I didn’t feel like we were addressing the issue,” Head commented before the final vote.
“What’s different about the police department is that people are leaving, and I’m afraid it will get worse. That’s one position where lives may depend on it.”
“I felt like… I’m not sure I did the right thing,” he continued. “Admittedly you have to have some support, and I want to bring the issue back up. I really would like for us to look at giving these policemen the five percent raise. I think we need to reconsider.”
Councilmember Lakeitha Reeves, who previously advocated equal increases for all city employees, agreed to compromise after the public hearing.
“I listened during the comments as it relates to retention of the police and safety of our community,” Reeves said, “and I can support the five percent if we can give the other employees two percent.”
Reeves added a condition that the city conduct an internal salary study and revisit employee compensation by the middle of 2020.
“I think we’ve looked at this to death. We just have to figure out what you want to do,” Finance Director Lonnie Joyce told the council. “Again, we’re talking about a $33 million budget, so $10,000 or $15,000 one way or the other isn’t going to kill us.”
A few budget items remain fluid, including support for a $199,000 debt payment due in 2020 to MEAG for Thomaston’s participation in Plant Vogtle. City Manager Russell Thompson initially suggested funding the debt with surplus revenue from water and electrical service, then councilmembers considered a monthly assessment to customers. Another option mentioned was a draw from the city’s “reserve” fund.
The electric fund is by far the largest budget item at $15 million, followed by the water and sewer fund at $5.4 million. Sanitation and joint projects with Upson County account for more than $1 million each.
Thompson reminded councilmembers that the budget includes a “tentative” one-mill tax increase dedicated to the construction of a new fire station, estimated at approximately $2.5 million. Also added was a secretarial position requested by TFD Chief Renee Harris.
TPD and Electrical Department heads will receive only the two percent standard increase for 2020.
Published 12-12-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council voted unanimously last week to adopt a $33 million operating budget for 2020 which includes a two percent raise for all employees and an additional three percent for certified law enforcement and electrical linemen.
Following the vote, one councilmember appropriately commented, “Finally.”
A decision was reached after weeks of debate surrounding excessive turnover in the Thomaston Police Department which has accounted for almost one-third attrition on the force. Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head has repeatedly pushed for the five percent raise, and an outcry from local residents and officials during a public hearing prior to last week’s meeting seemed to tip the scales.
In the previous December meeting, council leaned toward a three percent hike across the board.
“When I walked out of the last meeting, I didn’t feel like we were addressing the issue,” Head commented before the final vote.
“What’s different about the police department is that people are leaving, and I’m afraid it will get worse. That’s one position where lives may depend on it.”
“I felt like… I’m not sure I did the right thing,” he continued. “Admittedly you have to have some support, and I want to bring the issue back up. I really would like for us to look at giving these policemen the five percent raise. I think we need to reconsider.”
Councilmember Lakeitha Reeves, who previously advocated equal increases for all city employees, agreed to compromise after the public hearing.
“I listened during the comments as it relates to retention of the police and safety of our community,” Reeves said, “and I can support the five percent if we can give the other employees two percent.”
Reeves added a condition that the city conduct an internal salary study and revisit employee compensation by the middle of 2020.
“I think we’ve looked at this to death. We just have to figure out what you want to do,” Finance Director Lonnie Joyce told the council. “Again, we’re talking about a $33 million budget, so $10,000 or $15,000 one way or the other isn’t going to kill us.”
A few budget items remain fluid, including support for a $199,000 debt payment due in 2020 to MEAG for Thomaston’s participation in Plant Vogtle. City Manager Russell Thompson initially suggested funding the debt with surplus revenue from water and electrical service, then councilmembers considered a monthly assessment to customers. Another option mentioned was a draw from the city’s “reserve” fund.
The electric fund is by far the largest budget item at $15 million, followed by the water and sewer fund at $5.4 million. Sanitation and joint projects with Upson County account for more than $1 million each.
Thompson reminded councilmembers that the budget includes a “tentative” one-mill tax increase dedicated to the construction of a new fire station, estimated at approximately $2.5 million. Also added was a secretarial position requested by TFD Chief Renee Harris.
TPD and Electrical Department heads will receive only the two percent standard increase for 2020.
Council OKs $2.57 Million ESG Contract
Published 12-12-2019
By Bridge Turner
Councilmembers voted unanimously last week to approve a $2.57 million contract renewal for 2020 with ESG Operations, which handles water treatment and distribution for the City of Thomaston.
The renewal reflects a 3.5 percent increase from ESG’s 2019 agreement with the city.
Councilmembers also approved a two-year contract renewal with the Thomaston Housing Authority for Community Development property management. The contract includes an increase in both salaries and management fees.
The council agreed to increase management fees from the current six percent to eight percent the first year, then to 10 percent during the second year of the renewed agreement. THA’s Patricia Allen initially requested an increase from six to 12 percent for management of the property.
Effective Jan. 1, the city will switch its credit card payment service from Government Windows to Payment Service Network. The change will improve connectivity with the city system, and will save its customers money, according to Finance Director Lonnie Joyce.
Charge for card payments will be reduced from four percent to 2.75 percent with the new system, Joyce said. The city will incur a set-up fee of approximately $500, and there will be a nominal monthly fee once the changeover is completed, Joyce added.
Several local board nominations were made by council, including councilman Ryan Tucker for the Office Building Authority, Sandy Kersey (District 3) and Troy Woodard (District 1) for the Thomaston Zoning Commission, and Darren Day and Lane Coggins for the Downtown Development Authority. All were approved unanimously.
Tucker nominated current chair Carson Gleaton to retain her position on the Industrial Development Authority.
“I asked Executive Director Kyle Fletcher how important continuity is to that board, and she told me it is huge,” Tucker said. “They’ve been a pretty productive bunch. Given the momentum they have, in an effort to maintain that, I move that Carson Gleaton continue in her role.”
Councilmember Lakeitha Reeves seconded the motion, which passed by a 4-1 vote. Councilman Jeff Middlebrooks, who cast the only “no” vote, had suggested the council consider Jerry Adams for the seat.
By Bridge Turner
Councilmembers voted unanimously last week to approve a $2.57 million contract renewal for 2020 with ESG Operations, which handles water treatment and distribution for the City of Thomaston.
The renewal reflects a 3.5 percent increase from ESG’s 2019 agreement with the city.
Councilmembers also approved a two-year contract renewal with the Thomaston Housing Authority for Community Development property management. The contract includes an increase in both salaries and management fees.
The council agreed to increase management fees from the current six percent to eight percent the first year, then to 10 percent during the second year of the renewed agreement. THA’s Patricia Allen initially requested an increase from six to 12 percent for management of the property.
Effective Jan. 1, the city will switch its credit card payment service from Government Windows to Payment Service Network. The change will improve connectivity with the city system, and will save its customers money, according to Finance Director Lonnie Joyce.
Charge for card payments will be reduced from four percent to 2.75 percent with the new system, Joyce said. The city will incur a set-up fee of approximately $500, and there will be a nominal monthly fee once the changeover is completed, Joyce added.
Several local board nominations were made by council, including councilman Ryan Tucker for the Office Building Authority, Sandy Kersey (District 3) and Troy Woodard (District 1) for the Thomaston Zoning Commission, and Darren Day and Lane Coggins for the Downtown Development Authority. All were approved unanimously.
Tucker nominated current chair Carson Gleaton to retain her position on the Industrial Development Authority.
“I asked Executive Director Kyle Fletcher how important continuity is to that board, and she told me it is huge,” Tucker said. “They’ve been a pretty productive bunch. Given the momentum they have, in an effort to maintain that, I move that Carson Gleaton continue in her role.”
Councilmember Lakeitha Reeves seconded the motion, which passed by a 4-1 vote. Councilman Jeff Middlebrooks, who cast the only “no” vote, had suggested the council consider Jerry Adams for the seat.
Council Members Compromise on Employee Raises
Published 12-20-2019
By Bridge Turner
After multiple budget work sessions and lengthy debate, Thomaston City Council members tentatively agreed last week to a three percent across-the-board raise for city employees in 2020.
Board members have been divided on allocation of raises, some suggesting a higher increase is needed in departments with increasing turnover rates, and others demanding equity of distribution. Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head voiced the strongest support for structuring raises based on recent attrition trends.
“The truth is we are having specific issues in the police department. We’re actually losing people,” Head said. “Everybody is of equal value, but we are having particular risk in certain places.”
Head pointed to six members recently leaving the Thomaston Police Department, and two to three more expected to leave by year end. Salaries and benefits have been cited in exit interviews as reasons for the departures.
City salaries were adjusted in 2018 based on recommendations of a Carl Vinson study in July 2017, when each job was examined individually. The city adhered to a “step” program suggested by the study, raising employee pay 1.25 percent in 2019, and workers were scheduled for another 1.25 percent hike in 2020. When Upson County announced an across-the-board raise of 1.75 percent for its employees in 2020, city officials penned a proposal matching that increase.
Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore, who also has expressed concern because of turnover in his office, proposed a five percent raise for his key personnel.
“I met with the sheriff, and they’re $300 to $400 ahead of us now on [approximately $36,000] starting salary,” said TPD Chief Mike Richardson. “They’re going to more than $38,000 at the start of the year, right at a $2,000 difference if we do nothing. My concern is keeping pace.”
Richardson has indicated difficulty in remaining competitive with neighboring towns and counties, and said the problem is compounded by more lucrative opportunities “in our own back yard.” He added that he already has lost one employee to the county, due in part to a more attractive benefit package. As an elected, independent, constitutional officer, Kilgore’s budget process is slightly different than Richardson’s.
Head and council member Ryan Tucker advocated maintaining the 1.75 percent increase across the board and adding 3.25 percent [five percent total] for certified law enforcement and electrical linemen, another area of concern for the city. Head’s and Tucker’s positions echoed a recommendation from City Manager Russell Thompson.
“That’s the staff recommendation. We have information and data to support the need for that decision,” Head said. “Why are we moving away from that?”
Council members Lakeitha Reeves and Jeff Middlebrooks disagreed, Reeves saying she would like to see all other employees receive a three percent raise if certain departments receive five percent. Council member Don Greathouse said any decisions made by the council should be data driven.
Council members compromised to adjust the budget to a three percent raise for all employees and conduct an internal salary study to determine where further changes are needed. That study could take as long as six months to complete, according to Thompson.
“It comes down to what level of service you want to provide, and how you are going to pay for it,” Thompson concluded. “The city hasn’t raised millage in 15 years. If you had gone up one mil every three years, we’re not having this conversation. We can only provide the level of service our constituents are willing to pay for, so you have to determine the expectations of our populous.”
Further budget adjustments will be required to offset the across-the-board increase from 1.75 percent to three percent and the addition of a secretarial position requested by Thomaston Fire Chief Renee Harris. A proposed dog park is among potential budget cuts discussed by council members.
A public hearing on the budget is planned for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17 in the city-county meeting room of the government complex, 106 East Lee Street.
By Bridge Turner
After multiple budget work sessions and lengthy debate, Thomaston City Council members tentatively agreed last week to a three percent across-the-board raise for city employees in 2020.
Board members have been divided on allocation of raises, some suggesting a higher increase is needed in departments with increasing turnover rates, and others demanding equity of distribution. Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head voiced the strongest support for structuring raises based on recent attrition trends.
“The truth is we are having specific issues in the police department. We’re actually losing people,” Head said. “Everybody is of equal value, but we are having particular risk in certain places.”
Head pointed to six members recently leaving the Thomaston Police Department, and two to three more expected to leave by year end. Salaries and benefits have been cited in exit interviews as reasons for the departures.
City salaries were adjusted in 2018 based on recommendations of a Carl Vinson study in July 2017, when each job was examined individually. The city adhered to a “step” program suggested by the study, raising employee pay 1.25 percent in 2019, and workers were scheduled for another 1.25 percent hike in 2020. When Upson County announced an across-the-board raise of 1.75 percent for its employees in 2020, city officials penned a proposal matching that increase.
Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore, who also has expressed concern because of turnover in his office, proposed a five percent raise for his key personnel.
“I met with the sheriff, and they’re $300 to $400 ahead of us now on [approximately $36,000] starting salary,” said TPD Chief Mike Richardson. “They’re going to more than $38,000 at the start of the year, right at a $2,000 difference if we do nothing. My concern is keeping pace.”
Richardson has indicated difficulty in remaining competitive with neighboring towns and counties, and said the problem is compounded by more lucrative opportunities “in our own back yard.” He added that he already has lost one employee to the county, due in part to a more attractive benefit package. As an elected, independent, constitutional officer, Kilgore’s budget process is slightly different than Richardson’s.
Head and council member Ryan Tucker advocated maintaining the 1.75 percent increase across the board and adding 3.25 percent [five percent total] for certified law enforcement and electrical linemen, another area of concern for the city. Head’s and Tucker’s positions echoed a recommendation from City Manager Russell Thompson.
“That’s the staff recommendation. We have information and data to support the need for that decision,” Head said. “Why are we moving away from that?”
Council members Lakeitha Reeves and Jeff Middlebrooks disagreed, Reeves saying she would like to see all other employees receive a three percent raise if certain departments receive five percent. Council member Don Greathouse said any decisions made by the council should be data driven.
Council members compromised to adjust the budget to a three percent raise for all employees and conduct an internal salary study to determine where further changes are needed. That study could take as long as six months to complete, according to Thompson.
“It comes down to what level of service you want to provide, and how you are going to pay for it,” Thompson concluded. “The city hasn’t raised millage in 15 years. If you had gone up one mil every three years, we’re not having this conversation. We can only provide the level of service our constituents are willing to pay for, so you have to determine the expectations of our populous.”
Further budget adjustments will be required to offset the across-the-board increase from 1.75 percent to three percent and the addition of a secretarial position requested by Thomaston Fire Chief Renee Harris. A proposed dog park is among potential budget cuts discussed by council members.
A public hearing on the budget is planned for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17 in the city-county meeting room of the government complex, 106 East Lee Street.
Thomaston Begins Christmas Celebrations
Published 12-5-2019
Hundreds gathered last weekend to watch the annual Christmas Lights Parade stroll through town.
Hundreds gathered last weekend to watch the annual Christmas Lights Parade stroll through town.
IDA Approves Hotel Feasibility Study for Upson
Published 12-5-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston-Upson Industrial Development Authority voted last week to approve a $12,500 expenditure for a local hotel feasibility study, to be conducted by The Highland Group of Atlanta.
IDA members recently committed $31,000 to retention of retail consultant NextSite of Birmingham, Ala. to assist with business and industry recruitment for a minimum of two years. Executive Director Kyle Fletcher said a hotel feasibility study is the next logical step in the recruitment process.
“I believe this would be an important document for both our retail consultant to have, along with current and future developers,” Fletcher told authority members. “I think this board has put a priority on a hotel, and we’ve been shut down a few times in pursuing it. If you want to do it, this is the first thing you need to have.”
Fletcher said she had spoken with Andy Camp, vice president of business development with NextSite, who said his company has worked successfully with The Highland Group on previous projects. Highland partner Mark Skinner agreed to an $8,500 retainer from the IDA, with a $4,000 balance due upon completion of the study.
From its inception, the hotel feasibility study should take approximately two weeks to complete, according to Fletcher, and will include gathering information from existing businesses and industries in the area. The study is intended to determine need for the service, and likelihood of the area’s ability to support the investment.
Board member Steve Rush expressed concern at last month’s meeting about the city’s ability to provide adequate wastewater service to a hotel. At last week’s meeting, recently re-elected Mayor J.D. Stallings assured IDA members the city had researched potential locations and he is confident that sewage needs can be met.
Fletcher reported that the IDA currently holds $160,814 in an account designated for leftover funds from approximately five years of budgets generated through a city-county joint services delivery agreement. The authority consistently has operated under budget for that period, and has amassed a six-figure savings.
Contributions to the IDA’s budget are made at an approximate two-thirds (county) and one-third (city) ratio, and both entities are entitled by the agreement to recover leftover funds at that same ratio, according to City Attorney Joel Bentley. Fletcher requested that the city and county allow use of those funds to fulfill various IDA obligations.
County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, who sits on the IDA board, told members the county could not commit to releasing its portion of the funds until completion of a joint projects audit currently under way.
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston-Upson Industrial Development Authority voted last week to approve a $12,500 expenditure for a local hotel feasibility study, to be conducted by The Highland Group of Atlanta.
IDA members recently committed $31,000 to retention of retail consultant NextSite of Birmingham, Ala. to assist with business and industry recruitment for a minimum of two years. Executive Director Kyle Fletcher said a hotel feasibility study is the next logical step in the recruitment process.
“I believe this would be an important document for both our retail consultant to have, along with current and future developers,” Fletcher told authority members. “I think this board has put a priority on a hotel, and we’ve been shut down a few times in pursuing it. If you want to do it, this is the first thing you need to have.”
Fletcher said she had spoken with Andy Camp, vice president of business development with NextSite, who said his company has worked successfully with The Highland Group on previous projects. Highland partner Mark Skinner agreed to an $8,500 retainer from the IDA, with a $4,000 balance due upon completion of the study.
From its inception, the hotel feasibility study should take approximately two weeks to complete, according to Fletcher, and will include gathering information from existing businesses and industries in the area. The study is intended to determine need for the service, and likelihood of the area’s ability to support the investment.
Board member Steve Rush expressed concern at last month’s meeting about the city’s ability to provide adequate wastewater service to a hotel. At last week’s meeting, recently re-elected Mayor J.D. Stallings assured IDA members the city had researched potential locations and he is confident that sewage needs can be met.
Fletcher reported that the IDA currently holds $160,814 in an account designated for leftover funds from approximately five years of budgets generated through a city-county joint services delivery agreement. The authority consistently has operated under budget for that period, and has amassed a six-figure savings.
Contributions to the IDA’s budget are made at an approximate two-thirds (county) and one-third (city) ratio, and both entities are entitled by the agreement to recover leftover funds at that same ratio, according to City Attorney Joel Bentley. Fletcher requested that the city and county allow use of those funds to fulfill various IDA obligations.
County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, who sits on the IDA board, told members the county could not commit to releasing its portion of the funds until completion of a joint projects audit currently under way.
Secretary of State Visits Board of Elections
By Luke Haney
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger recently visited Upson County to speak with members of the local Board of Elections about new voting machines that will be used in the March 24 Presidential Primary Election.
Robert Haney, chairman of the Board of Elections, spoke about his plan to improve training processes to ensure that all poll workers are properly educated on the new equipment and fully prepared for the upcoming elections.
Board of Education Requests Reports on Bullying at Schools
Published 11-28-2019
By Luke Haney
Principals of all Upson Lee schools were present at the November Board of Education meeting, upon request of board member Angeline McGill, to discuss how each school handles bullying and the policies that each school has in place.
Rhonda Gulley, principal of Upson Lee Middle School, spoke first because most bullying tends to take place at middle school age. Gulley stated that all schools have the same bullying policy, per each school’s handbook.
At the middle school, students have an extended learning time, referred to as ELT. At the beginning of each school year, students hear from school counselors during several ELT advisements and learn what constitutes bullying and how to gain help if a student is being bullied.
“Our biggest challenge is that what parents consider bullying and what we consider to be bullying are not the same things. Also, we can’t handle things that we do not know about,” Gulley said. She added that social media plays a large role in bullying.
Gulley stated that any case brought to the attention of any staff member would be investigated and handled according to the policies in the handbook and what disciplinary step a child may be on. “We revisit it often,” she explained. Gulley also said that if one grade level is having more issues than another, counselors will continue to add more advisement sessions to educate students on the dangers of bullying.
Board member Steve Sadler asked what the requirement is for a situation where the student brings an incident to the attention of a teacher.
“Depending on if the situation is more administrative, they will come to us,” Gulley answered. “If they feel that it may be more social or emotional, they go to the counselors first.” She stated that the counselors always inform administration about situations before they address them. The middle school also has a bullying prevention hotline number printed on posters inside the school.
On the topic of cyber-bullying, Gulley says that it usually is more prevalent during school breaks when the students have a lot of free time. Often, students will bring these issues into school once the breaks have ended, turning the incident into a school-related issue. The middle school has only encountered five bullying-related cases in the 2019-2020 school year.
“If we don’t know about it, we can’t do anything about it, but as soon as we find out, we do. Our teachers are great about turning things in to us,” Gulley assured board members.
Pre-K Principal Jason Weems stated that pre-K is “all physical.”
“We try to teach them how to interact with each other using verbalization more than physical,” Weems explained. “Most of them only know how to do two things: cry and hit.” He stated that he has had several students who would do “mean” things, but there have been no cases of bullying this year at pre-K.
In reference to the bullying policy, Weems stated that he will always contact both parents immediately, starting with the victim’s parent, to let them know what happened and how it will be addressed. He generally speaks with the defending child’s parents on speaker phone so they also can speak to their child.
At the elementary and primary schools, administration states that there have been no confirmed cases at the primary school and five cases at the elementary school, none of which have reached a repetitive stage. Administration stated that bullying tends to happen more often on school buses at this age.
Upson Lee High School has had zero confirmed cases. Like the middle school, most situations tend to occur outside of school via social media. The biggest challenge and the first thing that administration and counselors at the high school do is to locate the source. Many things reported from social media are screenshots and have no name attached to them. This creates a challenge of finding proof.
With this being Dr. Jarvis Price’s first year as principal, he stated that when a case may occur, his goal is to be fair to both sides. Price also stated that if there is a case to investigate inside the school, he is always willing to look at video footage of the hallways with the involved parents.
There have been no cases of bullying at the alternative school this year. Administration states that any case will be handled fairly and fully following system protocol.
By Luke Haney
Principals of all Upson Lee schools were present at the November Board of Education meeting, upon request of board member Angeline McGill, to discuss how each school handles bullying and the policies that each school has in place.
Rhonda Gulley, principal of Upson Lee Middle School, spoke first because most bullying tends to take place at middle school age. Gulley stated that all schools have the same bullying policy, per each school’s handbook.
At the middle school, students have an extended learning time, referred to as ELT. At the beginning of each school year, students hear from school counselors during several ELT advisements and learn what constitutes bullying and how to gain help if a student is being bullied.
“Our biggest challenge is that what parents consider bullying and what we consider to be bullying are not the same things. Also, we can’t handle things that we do not know about,” Gulley said. She added that social media plays a large role in bullying.
Gulley stated that any case brought to the attention of any staff member would be investigated and handled according to the policies in the handbook and what disciplinary step a child may be on. “We revisit it often,” she explained. Gulley also said that if one grade level is having more issues than another, counselors will continue to add more advisement sessions to educate students on the dangers of bullying.
Board member Steve Sadler asked what the requirement is for a situation where the student brings an incident to the attention of a teacher.
“Depending on if the situation is more administrative, they will come to us,” Gulley answered. “If they feel that it may be more social or emotional, they go to the counselors first.” She stated that the counselors always inform administration about situations before they address them. The middle school also has a bullying prevention hotline number printed on posters inside the school.
On the topic of cyber-bullying, Gulley says that it usually is more prevalent during school breaks when the students have a lot of free time. Often, students will bring these issues into school once the breaks have ended, turning the incident into a school-related issue. The middle school has only encountered five bullying-related cases in the 2019-2020 school year.
“If we don’t know about it, we can’t do anything about it, but as soon as we find out, we do. Our teachers are great about turning things in to us,” Gulley assured board members.
Pre-K Principal Jason Weems stated that pre-K is “all physical.”
“We try to teach them how to interact with each other using verbalization more than physical,” Weems explained. “Most of them only know how to do two things: cry and hit.” He stated that he has had several students who would do “mean” things, but there have been no cases of bullying this year at pre-K.
In reference to the bullying policy, Weems stated that he will always contact both parents immediately, starting with the victim’s parent, to let them know what happened and how it will be addressed. He generally speaks with the defending child’s parents on speaker phone so they also can speak to their child.
At the elementary and primary schools, administration states that there have been no confirmed cases at the primary school and five cases at the elementary school, none of which have reached a repetitive stage. Administration stated that bullying tends to happen more often on school buses at this age.
Upson Lee High School has had zero confirmed cases. Like the middle school, most situations tend to occur outside of school via social media. The biggest challenge and the first thing that administration and counselors at the high school do is to locate the source. Many things reported from social media are screenshots and have no name attached to them. This creates a challenge of finding proof.
With this being Dr. Jarvis Price’s first year as principal, he stated that when a case may occur, his goal is to be fair to both sides. Price also stated that if there is a case to investigate inside the school, he is always willing to look at video footage of the hallways with the involved parents.
There have been no cases of bullying at the alternative school this year. Administration states that any case will be handled fairly and fully following system protocol.
Christmas Lane Open Dec. 7
Published 11-28-2019
By Ian Shales
"He was the most successful and creative person that I have ever known."
Those are the words that Greg Wilson uses to describe his father, George Wilson. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, George was a strong and imaginative man who loved children. He was the recreational director for B.F. Goodrich Martha Mills and coached the city-county junior high football team.
While stationed in England during World War II, George noticed how the holiday decorations were quite different than those of America. Adorned with varying types of greenery, homes in England displayed holly around the door frames. That inspired George to do the same when he returned home to Thomaston. After his first tour of duty, he similarly decorated his home. .George used magnolia branches but made one important addition… lights!
When Greg was five years old, the Wilson family moved to R Street. George continued to express his love for Christmas and set out to create a “Candyland.”
George placed a Santa cut-out on the roof, illuminated by a spotlight. Next, there was a particular elm tree in the front yard that was wrapped with red and white oilcloth on the trunk and branches. George and a few of his football players would get together and make peppermints out of discarded spools from the mills. He drew some elves, cut them out, and painted them to add to the display.
Those elves are 64 this year, old enough to receive Social Security.
The Wilsons had another Santa made out of paper mache that would stand out in the front yard during the holiday season. That same Santa Claus is nearly 100 years old today. Families would come from all over to see this charming place. Kids were awestruck at its beauty.
The idea of Christmas Lane, as it is known today, wasn't introduced until 1972. Earlene Simmons and Carlene Maddox lived across the street from the Wilsons, so they had a good view of Candyland's beauty. The two proposed the idea to George to have a formalized Christmas village where everybody decorated their yards. The idea was to have everyone place a Christmas tree by the sidewalk and transform R Street into a magical wonderland. The two women insisted that he would be in charge. George said, "I could see that coming!"
Christmas Lane was George's pride and joy, and he poured his heart into it every year.
Over the years, the Wilsons made additions to their display. One such addition was the castle that still stands tall and proud in their front yard. Before George passed away in 1994, it would take a day and a half to set up the castle. Greg decided to simplify things. Initially, the castle was a very complex masterpiece with many pieces. Greg attached pieces to make larger sections that were easier to install.
What usually took a day and a half, now takes 37 minutes.
Every year for the opening of Christmas Lane, Santa makes an appearance to add to the festivities. In times past, he has arrived in a police car, fire truck, horse and carriage, and a steam tractor. One year, Santa was brought in with Percheron horses and a Coca-Cola wagon. However, this dramatic entrance had to be canceled because of liability issues.
Even though families are not required to decorate their homes if they live on R Street, Greg Wilson says everyone wants to participate. It is a team effort to pull off Christmas Lane every year, but it is doable and, more importantly, exciting and magical.
This year, Christmas Lane officially opens on Saturday, Dec. 7.
By Ian Shales
"He was the most successful and creative person that I have ever known."
Those are the words that Greg Wilson uses to describe his father, George Wilson. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, George was a strong and imaginative man who loved children. He was the recreational director for B.F. Goodrich Martha Mills and coached the city-county junior high football team.
While stationed in England during World War II, George noticed how the holiday decorations were quite different than those of America. Adorned with varying types of greenery, homes in England displayed holly around the door frames. That inspired George to do the same when he returned home to Thomaston. After his first tour of duty, he similarly decorated his home. .George used magnolia branches but made one important addition… lights!
When Greg was five years old, the Wilson family moved to R Street. George continued to express his love for Christmas and set out to create a “Candyland.”
George placed a Santa cut-out on the roof, illuminated by a spotlight. Next, there was a particular elm tree in the front yard that was wrapped with red and white oilcloth on the trunk and branches. George and a few of his football players would get together and make peppermints out of discarded spools from the mills. He drew some elves, cut them out, and painted them to add to the display.
Those elves are 64 this year, old enough to receive Social Security.
The Wilsons had another Santa made out of paper mache that would stand out in the front yard during the holiday season. That same Santa Claus is nearly 100 years old today. Families would come from all over to see this charming place. Kids were awestruck at its beauty.
The idea of Christmas Lane, as it is known today, wasn't introduced until 1972. Earlene Simmons and Carlene Maddox lived across the street from the Wilsons, so they had a good view of Candyland's beauty. The two proposed the idea to George to have a formalized Christmas village where everybody decorated their yards. The idea was to have everyone place a Christmas tree by the sidewalk and transform R Street into a magical wonderland. The two women insisted that he would be in charge. George said, "I could see that coming!"
Christmas Lane was George's pride and joy, and he poured his heart into it every year.
Over the years, the Wilsons made additions to their display. One such addition was the castle that still stands tall and proud in their front yard. Before George passed away in 1994, it would take a day and a half to set up the castle. Greg decided to simplify things. Initially, the castle was a very complex masterpiece with many pieces. Greg attached pieces to make larger sections that were easier to install.
What usually took a day and a half, now takes 37 minutes.
Every year for the opening of Christmas Lane, Santa makes an appearance to add to the festivities. In times past, he has arrived in a police car, fire truck, horse and carriage, and a steam tractor. One year, Santa was brought in with Percheron horses and a Coca-Cola wagon. However, this dramatic entrance had to be canceled because of liability issues.
Even though families are not required to decorate their homes if they live on R Street, Greg Wilson says everyone wants to participate. It is a team effort to pull off Christmas Lane every year, but it is doable and, more importantly, exciting and magical.
This year, Christmas Lane officially opens on Saturday, Dec. 7.
thanksgiving blessings
Organizations Represented include Logtown Bethel Church, Mountain View Baptist Church, New Life Church, North Ridge Church, Northside Baptist Church, Silvertown Baptist Church, Home Depot of Thomaston and Home Depot of Griffin.
Published 11-28-2019
By Luke Haney
The Silvertown Baptist Soup Kitchen served a Thanksgiving feast last Thursday. The menu included everything from turkey to chocolate cake.
This is the 10th year that the Silvertown Baptist Soup Kitchen has served a thanksgiving meal.
The following churches and organizations provided food and volunteers: Logtown Bethel Church, Mountain View Baptist Church, New Life Church, North Ridge Church, Northside Baptist Church, Silvertown Baptist Church, Home Depot of Thomaston and Home Depot of Griffin.
Silvertown Baptist Church hosts the soup kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend and donations are accepted and appreciated.
By Luke Haney
The Silvertown Baptist Soup Kitchen served a Thanksgiving feast last Thursday. The menu included everything from turkey to chocolate cake.
This is the 10th year that the Silvertown Baptist Soup Kitchen has served a thanksgiving meal.
The following churches and organizations provided food and volunteers: Logtown Bethel Church, Mountain View Baptist Church, New Life Church, North Ridge Church, Northside Baptist Church, Silvertown Baptist Church, Home Depot of Thomaston and Home Depot of Griffin.
Silvertown Baptist Church hosts the soup kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend and donations are accepted and appreciated.
KRAMER PURSUES DREAM OF OLYMPIC SHOOTING
Published 11-21-2019
Thomaston native and Upson-Lee ROTC standout Rosemary Kramer, now a senior at Georgia Southern University, has taken a year off from academics to pursue her dream of representing the United States on its Olympic shooting team.
Kramer, a prodigy at air rifle, hunted growing up. Her parents, also shooters, taught her from a young age to be safe with guns. In high school, she attended a UL ROTC tryout and “shot pretty well,” she said. She ended up shooting competitively on the team for four years.
Kramer had chosen Columbus State University to continue competitive shooting at the collegiate level, but the day before she was scheduled to sign her contract, the new president of the school canceled the rifle program. The coach at Columbus State told her that Georgia Southern had open spots in Statesboro, and she made the team.
Kramer began compiling an impressive resume during her freshman year as the team’s leading performer in both smallbore and air rifle. During her sophomore year, she was a member of Georgia Southern’s Southern Conference air rifle championship squad, and a first team all-SoCon selection to the air rifle squad. As a junior, she was a first team all-conference selection, and named the SoCon Air Rifle Athlete of the Year.
Senior year has seen Kramer named first team All-American in air rifle, as selected by the National Rifle Association. She placed third at the NCAA Air Rifle Championships in West Virginia, and tied the event’s air rifle record with a 599 in the preliminary round. She went on to become the SoCon Air Rifle champion, and was a first team All-SoCon selection in both smallbore and air rifle. In October 2018, she fired a school and SoCon record 598.
Kramer averaged a school record 594.154 in air rifle, and placed first in 10 air rifle meets and first overall in five matches. She has been named SoCon Air Rifle Shooter of the Month three times, and was selected to compete in the World University Games in Naples, Italy.
The first NCAA medalist and All-American in Georgia Southern history, Kramer is the first GSU Rifle student-athlete to qualify for NCAAs in the six-year history of the program. She holds school records in multiple categories, and has been named a Collegiate Rifle Coaches Association Scholastic All-American.
“It was many years of working toward improvement,” said GSU head rifle coach Sandra Worman. “The final tools she needed to really soar were mental management, positive self-talk and performance management through her shooter’s journal. Once she dialed in to those assets, she confidently found her footing in the stratosphere.”
Kramer’s skills have taken her outside of collegiate competition. In May, Kramer competed in the Munich World Cup in Germany. The competition gave her the opportunity to post an international score so she could attend the Olympic trials, one of only 11 women to do so.
The venture also gave her an opportunity to stay with athletes who had competed previously in the Olympics, and talk with them about their experiences during the competition, as well as their training leading up to it. “It was awesome,” she said of her first time leaving the U.S., and added that other athletes gave her tips about “stuff that will help me stay sane as I go through this.”
Kramer is currently training at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. She will compete in the Olympic trials in December and February, and hopes to compete in Tokyo in the 2020 Olympics.
Worman says she likes Kramer’s chances.
“It’s like her to rise to the occasion, and she eats pressure for breakfast,” the coach said. She’s also had the chance to experiment with different ways and methods of training, and even different rifles. Rotating out of a college program and onto the national team is a very different environment than she’s had for the past four years.”
As she awaits her Olympic trial, Kramer is practicing at least six days a week and spending a lot of time working in the gym, focusing on balance training. But she says the thing she enjoys most about shooting is that it requires a lot of patience and concentration. She added that she believes shooting has increased her overall confidence and decision-making abilities.
“I think it’s made me a more confident person,” she said. “I know what I’m capable of, and I know what I enjoy doing, and what I’m good at. Knowing that helps me to make decisions in life more easily. It’s given me a lot of patience and perseverance, and a work ethic that I’m really proud of.”
Kramer plans to return to GSU next year and complete her degree.
When asked about being a potential role model for young women, Kramer says she’s “okay with that.”
“It’s really inspiring, and it makes me want to be a better person… I remember looking up to certain people, the way that they changed my life,” she said. “It means I have to be a little more careful about what I do, but I’m okay with that. I like to think that maybe I can change people’s lives for the better.”
Thomaston native and Upson-Lee ROTC standout Rosemary Kramer, now a senior at Georgia Southern University, has taken a year off from academics to pursue her dream of representing the United States on its Olympic shooting team.
Kramer, a prodigy at air rifle, hunted growing up. Her parents, also shooters, taught her from a young age to be safe with guns. In high school, she attended a UL ROTC tryout and “shot pretty well,” she said. She ended up shooting competitively on the team for four years.
Kramer had chosen Columbus State University to continue competitive shooting at the collegiate level, but the day before she was scheduled to sign her contract, the new president of the school canceled the rifle program. The coach at Columbus State told her that Georgia Southern had open spots in Statesboro, and she made the team.
Kramer began compiling an impressive resume during her freshman year as the team’s leading performer in both smallbore and air rifle. During her sophomore year, she was a member of Georgia Southern’s Southern Conference air rifle championship squad, and a first team all-SoCon selection to the air rifle squad. As a junior, she was a first team all-conference selection, and named the SoCon Air Rifle Athlete of the Year.
Senior year has seen Kramer named first team All-American in air rifle, as selected by the National Rifle Association. She placed third at the NCAA Air Rifle Championships in West Virginia, and tied the event’s air rifle record with a 599 in the preliminary round. She went on to become the SoCon Air Rifle champion, and was a first team All-SoCon selection in both smallbore and air rifle. In October 2018, she fired a school and SoCon record 598.
Kramer averaged a school record 594.154 in air rifle, and placed first in 10 air rifle meets and first overall in five matches. She has been named SoCon Air Rifle Shooter of the Month three times, and was selected to compete in the World University Games in Naples, Italy.
The first NCAA medalist and All-American in Georgia Southern history, Kramer is the first GSU Rifle student-athlete to qualify for NCAAs in the six-year history of the program. She holds school records in multiple categories, and has been named a Collegiate Rifle Coaches Association Scholastic All-American.
“It was many years of working toward improvement,” said GSU head rifle coach Sandra Worman. “The final tools she needed to really soar were mental management, positive self-talk and performance management through her shooter’s journal. Once she dialed in to those assets, she confidently found her footing in the stratosphere.”
Kramer’s skills have taken her outside of collegiate competition. In May, Kramer competed in the Munich World Cup in Germany. The competition gave her the opportunity to post an international score so she could attend the Olympic trials, one of only 11 women to do so.
The venture also gave her an opportunity to stay with athletes who had competed previously in the Olympics, and talk with them about their experiences during the competition, as well as their training leading up to it. “It was awesome,” she said of her first time leaving the U.S., and added that other athletes gave her tips about “stuff that will help me stay sane as I go through this.”
Kramer is currently training at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. She will compete in the Olympic trials in December and February, and hopes to compete in Tokyo in the 2020 Olympics.
Worman says she likes Kramer’s chances.
“It’s like her to rise to the occasion, and she eats pressure for breakfast,” the coach said. She’s also had the chance to experiment with different ways and methods of training, and even different rifles. Rotating out of a college program and onto the national team is a very different environment than she’s had for the past four years.”
As she awaits her Olympic trial, Kramer is practicing at least six days a week and spending a lot of time working in the gym, focusing on balance training. But she says the thing she enjoys most about shooting is that it requires a lot of patience and concentration. She added that she believes shooting has increased her overall confidence and decision-making abilities.
“I think it’s made me a more confident person,” she said. “I know what I’m capable of, and I know what I enjoy doing, and what I’m good at. Knowing that helps me to make decisions in life more easily. It’s given me a lot of patience and perseverance, and a work ethic that I’m really proud of.”
Kramer plans to return to GSU next year and complete her degree.
When asked about being a potential role model for young women, Kramer says she’s “okay with that.”
“It’s really inspiring, and it makes me want to be a better person… I remember looking up to certain people, the way that they changed my life,” she said. “It means I have to be a little more careful about what I do, but I’m okay with that. I like to think that maybe I can change people’s lives for the better.”
Community Mourns Local Sports Legend Hugh Frank Radcliffe
Published 11-21-2019
Thomaston native Hugh Frank Radcliffe, best known for a baseball pitching performance in which he struck out 28 batters in nine innings, died Nov. 10 at 90 years old.
Radcliffe’s national record-setting, 28-strikeout game occurred against Lanier High School April 19, 1948 at Silvertown Ball Park. One opposing batter, after striking out, reached first base on a passed ball, an error charged to the catcher. Radcliffe struck out an additional batter to complete the no-hitter.
He finished the 1948 season with 201 strikeouts in 81 and two-thirds innings, an average of 2.6 strikeouts per inning, allowing only 16 hits and three earned runs for the entire season. The standout performance caught the attention of the Philadelphia Phillies organization, which offered Radcliffe a contract immediately thereafter.
Beacon sports columnist Jim Fowler called Radcliffe “the greatest to ever grace the athletic fields here,” referring to his all-state achievements in basketball and football, as well as baseball. He once punted a football 78 yards in the air, and won a region pole-vaulting championship on a sprained ankle, according to Fowler.
Radcliffe was featured in the Atlanta Journal, Time-Life Magazine and Ripley’s Believe it or Not, and was one of the original inductees into the Thomaston-Upson Sports Hall of Fame. The City of Thomaston declared March 27, 1998 “Hugh Frank Radcliffe Day,” honoring him on the 50th anniversary of the renowned game.
After two years with the Phillies, he signed with the New York Yankees. An injury to his pitching arm shortened his promising Major League Baseball career. Fowler said Radcliffe told him one of his most memorable achievements was striking out Joe DiMaggio in a spring training intra-squad game while with the Yankees.
Radcliffe is survived by his wife of 71 years, Marjorie Carraway Radcliffe.
Thomaston native Hugh Frank Radcliffe, best known for a baseball pitching performance in which he struck out 28 batters in nine innings, died Nov. 10 at 90 years old.
Radcliffe’s national record-setting, 28-strikeout game occurred against Lanier High School April 19, 1948 at Silvertown Ball Park. One opposing batter, after striking out, reached first base on a passed ball, an error charged to the catcher. Radcliffe struck out an additional batter to complete the no-hitter.
He finished the 1948 season with 201 strikeouts in 81 and two-thirds innings, an average of 2.6 strikeouts per inning, allowing only 16 hits and three earned runs for the entire season. The standout performance caught the attention of the Philadelphia Phillies organization, which offered Radcliffe a contract immediately thereafter.
Beacon sports columnist Jim Fowler called Radcliffe “the greatest to ever grace the athletic fields here,” referring to his all-state achievements in basketball and football, as well as baseball. He once punted a football 78 yards in the air, and won a region pole-vaulting championship on a sprained ankle, according to Fowler.
Radcliffe was featured in the Atlanta Journal, Time-Life Magazine and Ripley’s Believe it or Not, and was one of the original inductees into the Thomaston-Upson Sports Hall of Fame. The City of Thomaston declared March 27, 1998 “Hugh Frank Radcliffe Day,” honoring him on the 50th anniversary of the renowned game.
After two years with the Phillies, he signed with the New York Yankees. An injury to his pitching arm shortened his promising Major League Baseball career. Fowler said Radcliffe told him one of his most memorable achievements was striking out Joe DiMaggio in a spring training intra-squad game while with the Yankees.
Radcliffe is survived by his wife of 71 years, Marjorie Carraway Radcliffe.
Commissioners Split on Adding New PR Position
Published 11-21-2019
By Bridge Turner
After months of consideration, Upson County commissioners decided last week to suspend discussion of creating a new governmental position designed to enhance “citizen engagement.”
Board members were clearly divided on the topic, which was introduced by Commissioner Benjamin Watson at a recent county work session. Earlier in the year, county officials approached members of the Thomaston City Council regarding involvement.
“I don’t think we should wait on the city to participate,” Watson said. “If it [the position] does what we hope it will do, the city hopefully will want to join in later. With Heart & Soul wrapping up, I’m concerned that the money spent on that will be out the door if we don’t have someone overseeing the process moving forward.”
The new position would be a transition from Heart & Soul, which has gathered and prioritized information of importance to residents. The job description has fluctuated since first mention, but Chairman Norman Allen summarized by saying, “We need someone to tell our story.”
“It’s not about marketing, it’s about telling our story,” Allen said. “Taxpayers need to know what’s going on. It’s our responsibility to tell our citizenry what we’re doing and how we’re performing. We also need to get that information to potential business and industry leaders outside our area.”
Branding is only part of the latest description, according to County Manager Jason Tinsley.
“This person would be in charge of engagement through multi-media, representing and reporting on events, and saturating the public with our activities,” Tinsley explained. “It’s not just a continuation of Heart & Soul, it’s intended to bring people closer to government.”
Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder was first to voice opposition to creating the position.
“I was against it when we first talked about it, and unless somebody can convince me that the city’s buying into this thing too, I’m still against it,” Wilder said. “I think the city should be taking the lead on that position. Until we can do things together, we will never move forward.”
Commissioner Paul Jones agreed with Wilder.
“If the city’s not involved, I’m not for it,” Jones commented. “About 85 percent of what happens, happens in the city. I can’t see being their promoter if they [city] don’t have any skin in the game.”
Commissioner James Ellington, who has stated his position “against growing government,” said his concerns are primarily fiscal.
“I see somewhat of a need, but my urgency for that need is different from other people in the room,” Ellington said. “I’m skeptical about creating a $60,000 position to do something that’s hard to determine return of investment. We can guess, but from a business standpoint, it’s hard to measure what the return would be.”
Ellington added that he would be more receptive to the idea if an existing county employee could transition into the new position, reducing the need for additional payroll expense.
Allen closed the discussion with a comment about unity and progress.
“Strong cities make strong counties, and strong counties make strong cities, so I try to use the word ‘community’,” Allen said. “We need to educate those inside and outside the community about where the growth is, where the opportunities are, and what the challenges are.
“The last thing I’ll say,” he concluded, “is if you ain’t growing, you’re dying.”
By Bridge Turner
After months of consideration, Upson County commissioners decided last week to suspend discussion of creating a new governmental position designed to enhance “citizen engagement.”
Board members were clearly divided on the topic, which was introduced by Commissioner Benjamin Watson at a recent county work session. Earlier in the year, county officials approached members of the Thomaston City Council regarding involvement.
“I don’t think we should wait on the city to participate,” Watson said. “If it [the position] does what we hope it will do, the city hopefully will want to join in later. With Heart & Soul wrapping up, I’m concerned that the money spent on that will be out the door if we don’t have someone overseeing the process moving forward.”
The new position would be a transition from Heart & Soul, which has gathered and prioritized information of importance to residents. The job description has fluctuated since first mention, but Chairman Norman Allen summarized by saying, “We need someone to tell our story.”
“It’s not about marketing, it’s about telling our story,” Allen said. “Taxpayers need to know what’s going on. It’s our responsibility to tell our citizenry what we’re doing and how we’re performing. We also need to get that information to potential business and industry leaders outside our area.”
Branding is only part of the latest description, according to County Manager Jason Tinsley.
“This person would be in charge of engagement through multi-media, representing and reporting on events, and saturating the public with our activities,” Tinsley explained. “It’s not just a continuation of Heart & Soul, it’s intended to bring people closer to government.”
Commissioner Lorenzo Wilder was first to voice opposition to creating the position.
“I was against it when we first talked about it, and unless somebody can convince me that the city’s buying into this thing too, I’m still against it,” Wilder said. “I think the city should be taking the lead on that position. Until we can do things together, we will never move forward.”
Commissioner Paul Jones agreed with Wilder.
“If the city’s not involved, I’m not for it,” Jones commented. “About 85 percent of what happens, happens in the city. I can’t see being their promoter if they [city] don’t have any skin in the game.”
Commissioner James Ellington, who has stated his position “against growing government,” said his concerns are primarily fiscal.
“I see somewhat of a need, but my urgency for that need is different from other people in the room,” Ellington said. “I’m skeptical about creating a $60,000 position to do something that’s hard to determine return of investment. We can guess, but from a business standpoint, it’s hard to measure what the return would be.”
Ellington added that he would be more receptive to the idea if an existing county employee could transition into the new position, reducing the need for additional payroll expense.
Allen closed the discussion with a comment about unity and progress.
“Strong cities make strong counties, and strong counties make strong cities, so I try to use the word ‘community’,” Allen said. “We need to educate those inside and outside the community about where the growth is, where the opportunities are, and what the challenges are.
“The last thing I’ll say,” he concluded, “is if you ain’t growing, you’re dying.”
Community Enterprises, Property Owners Diverge On Future of Park Drive
Published 11-14-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council voted 4-1 last week to approve a $587,000 “base” bid for improvements to Greatest Generation Memorial Park, leaving the door open to negotiation which could push the project over $1 million.
The park project is tied to a $520,000 transportation enhancement grant dating back to 2011. To secure the federal grant, the city is required to commit $130,000 in matching funds, $97,000 of which already has been spent on consulting fees, according to City Manager Russell Thompson.
The total bid from Earthscape Designs, Inc. is more than $1.45 million, which includes four options which may be added to the base cost. The four options have been put on hold largely because Community Enterprises, Inc. and adjacent property owners disagree on how the southern “triangle” and southern portion of Park Drive, at the entrance to Silvertown, should be restricted in the future.
Members of Community Enterprises want all elements of the south entrance to remain intact and untouched and the Rogers family, owners of the property between the entrance and West Central Georgia Bank, asked the council to remain open to the possibility of cutting a driveway off southern Park Drive and selling the southern triangle.
Neil Hightower, president of Community Enterprises, reminded councilmembers that the organization already had contributed approximately $800,000 to the existing park. Another $214,000 donated by the group is currently held in a city account designated for a “mutually agreed upon project” involving the park.
The agreement originally involved the late Mayor Hays Arnold and a previous city administration.
“Those funds belong to the City of Thomaston. Other than the letter with the mayor [Arnold], we have no control over those funds. Our request is strictly a request,” Hightower said. “We feel that both parts that were designed by a very prominent architect, Mr. Draper, should be preserved as an entrance to Silvertown, which is probably one of the best mill villages in the country.”
“We would also like for people to be aware of the benefit of putting Silvertown on the National Register [of Historic Places],” Hightower added. “People can get tax advantages for improvements, and those who don’t can do anything they want with their property. From my perspective, there appears to be no downside.”
Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head disagreed.
“To say that there is no downside, I might take issue with that,” Head said. “I just don’t know what opportunity lies down the road and how it might be affected. If the south portion is included, in my mind there is a risk.”
The property at the entrance is part of a donation from BFGoodrich.
“Keep in mind that in the deed of three tracts donated to the city, tract number three is the crescent,” Kay Hightower said, referring to Park Drive and the two triangles at the entrance to Silvertown. “It’s not half the crescent, it’s the full crescent. That’s how they were given to the citizens, and that’s exactly how the deed reads.”
“We want to work with the city officials, not against you. But we’re long-term residents here, and we have ideas about what the community should be and should not be,” Neil Hightower continued. “If we disagree, you’ll know about it. We hope we’ll agree most of the time, but we’ll be friends no matter how the chips fall.”
Eddie Rogers, president of West Central Georgia and joint owner of the adjacent property, said his family has missed multiple opportunities to sell the tract because of restrictions or indecision regarding the south portion of the entrance.
“We had the opportunity a couple of years ago to sell this property, and had several other chances with the other administration [Arnold] was in, and they said they didn’t think it would be approved,” Rogers told the council. “Each time we’ve had a developer come along, especially the last time, the sale was contingent upon them being able to buy the [south] triangle.”
Rogers said his family has a vested interest in what type of development may locate next to the bank.
“With us [WCG] being beside the property – the bank has an investment in the community as well – we’re trying to make sure that whatever goes there is a controlled development,” he explained. “Not something slapped in there that doesn’t complement the community.”
“We’ve been trying to sell this property for 15 years, and each time somebody wanted the option to get closer to the corner. I’d have to tell them, ‘That’s up to the city’,” Rogers added. “We’re having to rent the property now just to pay the taxes. We’ve been paying taxes on it for 10 to 12 years with no income, so we have no choice.”
Rogers urged the council to consider options and not prohibit the possibility of selling the southern triangle, saying, “Something great may come along.”
Hightower addressed the council once more.
“I understand his concerns, but we think our concerns are just as important,” he said. “We have a letter from the CEO of BFGoodrich confirming the reason they donated that property. It was not to help a commercial property right next door. It was zoned to protect it as an entrance to an important village that we hope one day will be on the National Register.”
Thompson told councilmembers an additional $15,500 would be required for a materials tester and $25,000 would be required for a resident inspector during the project. His recommendation was to award the base bid and use $117,000 in city funds to match, continue conversations with both parties regarding the south entrance, then add options as council deems appropriate.
Councilman Don Greathouse cast the only “no” vote.
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council voted 4-1 last week to approve a $587,000 “base” bid for improvements to Greatest Generation Memorial Park, leaving the door open to negotiation which could push the project over $1 million.
The park project is tied to a $520,000 transportation enhancement grant dating back to 2011. To secure the federal grant, the city is required to commit $130,000 in matching funds, $97,000 of which already has been spent on consulting fees, according to City Manager Russell Thompson.
The total bid from Earthscape Designs, Inc. is more than $1.45 million, which includes four options which may be added to the base cost. The four options have been put on hold largely because Community Enterprises, Inc. and adjacent property owners disagree on how the southern “triangle” and southern portion of Park Drive, at the entrance to Silvertown, should be restricted in the future.
Members of Community Enterprises want all elements of the south entrance to remain intact and untouched and the Rogers family, owners of the property between the entrance and West Central Georgia Bank, asked the council to remain open to the possibility of cutting a driveway off southern Park Drive and selling the southern triangle.
Neil Hightower, president of Community Enterprises, reminded councilmembers that the organization already had contributed approximately $800,000 to the existing park. Another $214,000 donated by the group is currently held in a city account designated for a “mutually agreed upon project” involving the park.
The agreement originally involved the late Mayor Hays Arnold and a previous city administration.
“Those funds belong to the City of Thomaston. Other than the letter with the mayor [Arnold], we have no control over those funds. Our request is strictly a request,” Hightower said. “We feel that both parts that were designed by a very prominent architect, Mr. Draper, should be preserved as an entrance to Silvertown, which is probably one of the best mill villages in the country.”
“We would also like for people to be aware of the benefit of putting Silvertown on the National Register [of Historic Places],” Hightower added. “People can get tax advantages for improvements, and those who don’t can do anything they want with their property. From my perspective, there appears to be no downside.”
Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head disagreed.
“To say that there is no downside, I might take issue with that,” Head said. “I just don’t know what opportunity lies down the road and how it might be affected. If the south portion is included, in my mind there is a risk.”
The property at the entrance is part of a donation from BFGoodrich.
“Keep in mind that in the deed of three tracts donated to the city, tract number three is the crescent,” Kay Hightower said, referring to Park Drive and the two triangles at the entrance to Silvertown. “It’s not half the crescent, it’s the full crescent. That’s how they were given to the citizens, and that’s exactly how the deed reads.”
“We want to work with the city officials, not against you. But we’re long-term residents here, and we have ideas about what the community should be and should not be,” Neil Hightower continued. “If we disagree, you’ll know about it. We hope we’ll agree most of the time, but we’ll be friends no matter how the chips fall.”
Eddie Rogers, president of West Central Georgia and joint owner of the adjacent property, said his family has missed multiple opportunities to sell the tract because of restrictions or indecision regarding the south portion of the entrance.
“We had the opportunity a couple of years ago to sell this property, and had several other chances with the other administration [Arnold] was in, and they said they didn’t think it would be approved,” Rogers told the council. “Each time we’ve had a developer come along, especially the last time, the sale was contingent upon them being able to buy the [south] triangle.”
Rogers said his family has a vested interest in what type of development may locate next to the bank.
“With us [WCG] being beside the property – the bank has an investment in the community as well – we’re trying to make sure that whatever goes there is a controlled development,” he explained. “Not something slapped in there that doesn’t complement the community.”
“We’ve been trying to sell this property for 15 years, and each time somebody wanted the option to get closer to the corner. I’d have to tell them, ‘That’s up to the city’,” Rogers added. “We’re having to rent the property now just to pay the taxes. We’ve been paying taxes on it for 10 to 12 years with no income, so we have no choice.”
Rogers urged the council to consider options and not prohibit the possibility of selling the southern triangle, saying, “Something great may come along.”
Hightower addressed the council once more.
“I understand his concerns, but we think our concerns are just as important,” he said. “We have a letter from the CEO of BFGoodrich confirming the reason they donated that property. It was not to help a commercial property right next door. It was zoned to protect it as an entrance to an important village that we hope one day will be on the National Register.”
Thompson told councilmembers an additional $15,500 would be required for a materials tester and $25,000 would be required for a resident inspector during the project. His recommendation was to award the base bid and use $117,000 in city funds to match, continue conversations with both parties regarding the south entrance, then add options as council deems appropriate.
Councilman Don Greathouse cast the only “no” vote.
T-Town Fall
Festival Was ‘SpookTacular’
Published 11-7-2019
With the smell of popcorn and the sound of laughter in the air, hundreds of children and families enjoyed the T-Town Fall Festival last weekend. The festival included carnival rides, rock climbing, a costume contest, and more. The Joy FM had a tent along with several local churches. Sponsors included New Life Church, Silvertown Baptist Church, Twice the Ice, Northridge Church, Clark’s Chapel Baptist Church, RUSH Ministries, City of Thomaston and Thomaston Main Street.
With the smell of popcorn and the sound of laughter in the air, hundreds of children and families enjoyed the T-Town Fall Festival last weekend. The festival included carnival rides, rock climbing, a costume contest, and more. The Joy FM had a tent along with several local churches. Sponsors included New Life Church, Silvertown Baptist Church, Twice the Ice, Northridge Church, Clark’s Chapel Baptist Church, RUSH Ministries, City of Thomaston and Thomaston Main Street.
Tolen Charged with Vehicular Homicide For March 18 Death of Sue Grubbs
Published 11-7-2019
Christopher Daryl Tolen of Macon has been charged with homicide by vehicle in the first degree following a lengthy Georgia State Patrol investigation into a March 18 pedestrian accident that claimed the life of Sue Self Grubbs of Upson County.
Along with the felony, Tolen also is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and or controlled substance, weaving over roadway and expired license.
According to reports, Grubbs left her vehicle parked in her driveway at 3280 Highway 74 East at approximately 5:15 p.m. March 18 to check her mail. Tolen, traveling west in a silver 2005 Saturn Vue, left the roadway’s south shoulder and struck Grubbs near her mailbox. His vehicle continued moving, striking a culvert, then overturned.
Grubbs was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident near the intersection of Highway 74 and Trinity Road. Tolen was transported to Upson Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
Grubbs served as secretary for the Upson Historical Society for 13 years and was the sister of Thomaston surveyor Gary Self.
Christopher Daryl Tolen of Macon has been charged with homicide by vehicle in the first degree following a lengthy Georgia State Patrol investigation into a March 18 pedestrian accident that claimed the life of Sue Self Grubbs of Upson County.
Along with the felony, Tolen also is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and or controlled substance, weaving over roadway and expired license.
According to reports, Grubbs left her vehicle parked in her driveway at 3280 Highway 74 East at approximately 5:15 p.m. March 18 to check her mail. Tolen, traveling west in a silver 2005 Saturn Vue, left the roadway’s south shoulder and struck Grubbs near her mailbox. His vehicle continued moving, striking a culvert, then overturned.
Grubbs was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident near the intersection of Highway 74 and Trinity Road. Tolen was transported to Upson Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
Grubbs served as secretary for the Upson Historical Society for 13 years and was the sister of Thomaston surveyor Gary Self.
Incumbent Mayor Stallings Will Serve Four More Years
Published 11-7-2019
The City of Thomaston mayor will serve four more years going into the new decade. J.D. Stallings (Republican) defeated his Democrat opponent Jolee Benton in the city election Tuesday. Stallings earned 426 votes (77.45 percent of those who voted) and Benton had 124 votes (22.55 percent).
Registered voter turnout was very low with only 550 votes cast (10.3 percent) out of 5,351.
Early voting numbers came in with only 3.9 percent turnout, 211 votes cast. Stallings led with 168 votes and Benton had 43.
Mayor J.D. Stallings commented on victory, stating, “I want to thank the citizens of Thomaston for trusting me as their mayor for another four years. It is very humbling to have the support of the community.”
The City of Thomaston mayor will serve four more years going into the new decade. J.D. Stallings (Republican) defeated his Democrat opponent Jolee Benton in the city election Tuesday. Stallings earned 426 votes (77.45 percent of those who voted) and Benton had 124 votes (22.55 percent).
Registered voter turnout was very low with only 550 votes cast (10.3 percent) out of 5,351.
Early voting numbers came in with only 3.9 percent turnout, 211 votes cast. Stallings led with 168 votes and Benton had 43.
Mayor J.D. Stallings commented on victory, stating, “I want to thank the citizens of Thomaston for trusting me as their mayor for another four years. It is very humbling to have the support of the community.”
Sprewell Bluff’s Spooky Trail is a Howling Success
Published 10-31-2019
by Bridge Turner
More than 700 visitors from 23 different towns attended Sprewell Bluff Park’s “Spooky Trail” held Friday, Oct. 18, the furthest traveling all the way from Fort Valley.
Trail scenes included “The Purge,” “torture chamber,” “clown family,” “butcher shop,” and “campsite massacre,” along with five different games available for young children to win candy. Thurston Volunteer Fire Department offered barbecue at the overlook deck.
“Everything went off without a hitch,” according to Park Coordinator Sarah Williams. “The majority of our volunteers dressed in costume and looked fantastic. Everyone put in a lot of time and hard work to make this happen.”
by Bridge Turner
More than 700 visitors from 23 different towns attended Sprewell Bluff Park’s “Spooky Trail” held Friday, Oct. 18, the furthest traveling all the way from Fort Valley.
Trail scenes included “The Purge,” “torture chamber,” “clown family,” “butcher shop,” and “campsite massacre,” along with five different games available for young children to win candy. Thurston Volunteer Fire Department offered barbecue at the overlook deck.
“Everything went off without a hitch,” according to Park Coordinator Sarah Williams. “The majority of our volunteers dressed in costume and looked fantastic. Everyone put in a lot of time and hard work to make this happen.”
County Passes on DNR Grant for Sprewell Bluff
Published 10-31-2019
By Bridge Turner
Upson County commissioners took no action last week to secure a possible $1.2 million grant from the Department of Natural Resources for upgrades to Sprewell Bluff Park, allowing the Oct. 31 deadline for application to pass.
Commissioners expressed the need for more time to acquire additional information about the project, which could cost the county as much as $400,000 in matching funds to acquire the state grant.
DNR introduced the “Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program” grant in September, according to Recreation Director Mindy Daniel, who worked with county staff and consultant Precision Planning, Inc. to design a proposed comprehensive plan for the project. When applying for the grant, the county is required to commit a minimum of 25 percent of the total cost in local funds.
In a presentation to commissioners, Daniel said estimated cost of the project is between $1.5-1.6 million, which includes design and engineering fees and the following:
•A 500-seat amphitheater with additional parking and bathroom facilities;
•Outdoor classrooms with learning stations to promote student interaction, including a pavilion, bathrooms, and additional parking;
•An enhanced Trading Post retail store and observation area;
•A maintenance building to store equipment necessary for park upkeep;
•Road widening to accommodate recreational vehicles and increased traffic;
•Additional parking space, including handicap access, for day-to-day park activity and special events;
•A suspension bridge across the Flint River connecting Upson and Meriwether counties;
•Additional kiosks and signage for trail marking to identify wildlife, vegetation, and history of the area;
>River and beach area improvement, including new bathrooms;
>Primitive camping areas;
>And a long-term RV site.
The suspension bridge is a key component necessary to secure the grant, according to Daniel, because it would “improve the experience by connecting people and places,” a goal of the DNR.
She added that bathroom facilities are listed as the top complaint among park visitors, whose only current options are nature or portable units in the river and beach area. No power or water may be connected to bathrooms in that area, so new facilities would require solar operation and removal of waste.
Walk-in or “float-in” primitive camping areas may or may not have bathrooms, picnic tables, or garbage receptacles, depending on future design decisions.
The long-term RV site for “park-hoppers” is a concept used in other parks with a high rate of success, Daniel explained. The visitors, usually couples, are allowed to stay for weeks or months at no charge in exchange for providing after-hours services when park employees are not available.
County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners the annual maintenance and operational budget for the park is approximately $450,000 and his “conservative” estimate is that figure would double after the design changes were made. He added that ideally, an economic impact study should be conducted to determine how much of that cost could be offset by increased revenue.
“It’s a great master plan, and I’m pleased with the results,” he said, “but the M&O costs haven’t been determined. I’m sure we could make up some money on fee structure, store sales and events, but we don’t know how much return we’d get on our investment.”
Several commissioners agreed that an economic impact study and operational cost estimate should be conducted before moving forward.
“We have to be good stewards of the taxpayers’ money,” Commissioner James Ellington said. “I can’t choke this amount of money down without knowing what’s going to happen in the future. Are my property taxes going to go up because some commissioner sat up here and took something for free, and now we have to maintain it for the next hundred years? I can’t support this tonight.”
Certain fees are regulated through a lease with the state, but cost for activities on the county’s portion of the 90-plus acre park could be determined locally.
“This is some great work. Regardless of what we do here tonight, there is nothing wasted,” said Commission Chairman Norman Allen. “We have an updated master plan, great feedback from our advisory committee, staff, and tourism assessment. I think we have a very viable application when we submit it, and I think if we had an impact study, it would strengthen our package even more.”
“Sprewell Bluff is our jewel in this county, and we need to be very smart in how we proceed with this,” Allen continued. “We have great information here, but it sounds like we have more questions. This is not a step backward, it’s a step forward. We just need to workshop this some more. We still have work to do.”
No motion was made on the grant resolution.
By Bridge Turner
Upson County commissioners took no action last week to secure a possible $1.2 million grant from the Department of Natural Resources for upgrades to Sprewell Bluff Park, allowing the Oct. 31 deadline for application to pass.
Commissioners expressed the need for more time to acquire additional information about the project, which could cost the county as much as $400,000 in matching funds to acquire the state grant.
DNR introduced the “Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program” grant in September, according to Recreation Director Mindy Daniel, who worked with county staff and consultant Precision Planning, Inc. to design a proposed comprehensive plan for the project. When applying for the grant, the county is required to commit a minimum of 25 percent of the total cost in local funds.
In a presentation to commissioners, Daniel said estimated cost of the project is between $1.5-1.6 million, which includes design and engineering fees and the following:
•A 500-seat amphitheater with additional parking and bathroom facilities;
•Outdoor classrooms with learning stations to promote student interaction, including a pavilion, bathrooms, and additional parking;
•An enhanced Trading Post retail store and observation area;
•A maintenance building to store equipment necessary for park upkeep;
•Road widening to accommodate recreational vehicles and increased traffic;
•Additional parking space, including handicap access, for day-to-day park activity and special events;
•A suspension bridge across the Flint River connecting Upson and Meriwether counties;
•Additional kiosks and signage for trail marking to identify wildlife, vegetation, and history of the area;
>River and beach area improvement, including new bathrooms;
>Primitive camping areas;
>And a long-term RV site.
The suspension bridge is a key component necessary to secure the grant, according to Daniel, because it would “improve the experience by connecting people and places,” a goal of the DNR.
She added that bathroom facilities are listed as the top complaint among park visitors, whose only current options are nature or portable units in the river and beach area. No power or water may be connected to bathrooms in that area, so new facilities would require solar operation and removal of waste.
Walk-in or “float-in” primitive camping areas may or may not have bathrooms, picnic tables, or garbage receptacles, depending on future design decisions.
The long-term RV site for “park-hoppers” is a concept used in other parks with a high rate of success, Daniel explained. The visitors, usually couples, are allowed to stay for weeks or months at no charge in exchange for providing after-hours services when park employees are not available.
County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners the annual maintenance and operational budget for the park is approximately $450,000 and his “conservative” estimate is that figure would double after the design changes were made. He added that ideally, an economic impact study should be conducted to determine how much of that cost could be offset by increased revenue.
“It’s a great master plan, and I’m pleased with the results,” he said, “but the M&O costs haven’t been determined. I’m sure we could make up some money on fee structure, store sales and events, but we don’t know how much return we’d get on our investment.”
Several commissioners agreed that an economic impact study and operational cost estimate should be conducted before moving forward.
“We have to be good stewards of the taxpayers’ money,” Commissioner James Ellington said. “I can’t choke this amount of money down without knowing what’s going to happen in the future. Are my property taxes going to go up because some commissioner sat up here and took something for free, and now we have to maintain it for the next hundred years? I can’t support this tonight.”
Certain fees are regulated through a lease with the state, but cost for activities on the county’s portion of the 90-plus acre park could be determined locally.
“This is some great work. Regardless of what we do here tonight, there is nothing wasted,” said Commission Chairman Norman Allen. “We have an updated master plan, great feedback from our advisory committee, staff, and tourism assessment. I think we have a very viable application when we submit it, and I think if we had an impact study, it would strengthen our package even more.”
“Sprewell Bluff is our jewel in this county, and we need to be very smart in how we proceed with this,” Allen continued. “We have great information here, but it sounds like we have more questions. This is not a step backward, it’s a step forward. We just need to workshop this some more. We still have work to do.”
No motion was made on the grant resolution.
Council Ponders $1.45 Million Park Project
Local children on the playground at Greatest Generation Park.
Published 10-24-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council is considering a $1.455 million bid from Earthscape Designs, Inc. for landscape improvements to Greatest Generation Memorial Park.
Earthscape’s bid was the lowest of two received and is broken into five categories, a base bid and four alternates reflecting various aspects of the proposed design. City Manager Russell Thompson told councilmembers that Community Enterprises, Inc. of Thomaston offered to donate to the project if the city agreed to exclude two of the four options from the project.
Option “A” involves partial closure of the northern portion of Park Drive at a cost of $46,700, and option “B” allows for elaborate brick work at the entrance to Silvertown for $479,200. Thompson said Community Enterprise officials voiced concern that road closure and brick work may adversely affect the historical integrity of the community.
Excluding the two options would reduce overall project cost by almost $526,000. In turn, the local enterprise may pick up the tab for one of the two remaining alternates, listed at $156,800 and $184,800. The “base” portion of the bid is $587,300.
Thompson told councilmembers the city currently has $118,000 in its park fund, $214,000 in the enterprise fund, $215,000 in reserves, and $520,000 in federal funding, totaling more than $1 million. He said he would make a formal recommendation to the council at the first November meeting.
One other bid was received for the project, from Greene Concrete Company, for $2.76 million.
In other money matters, Thompson sought approval of funds to purchase a passenger van for the local prison work detail. He explained that existing vans are in poor condition and one was recently wrecked, and said officials have “pulled the crews” until appropriate transportation is provided.
The council approved up to $31,000 to purchase a new van, if necessary, but asked Thompson to use his discretion in searching for an acceptable used vehicle at a lower price.
Members voted to approve an Electric Cities of Georgia year-end settlement and contract payment reimbursement in the form of a $6,709 refund check to the city; and voted to approve extension of a GEFA loan for local “clean water” storm drain projects to July 2020.
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council is considering a $1.455 million bid from Earthscape Designs, Inc. for landscape improvements to Greatest Generation Memorial Park.
Earthscape’s bid was the lowest of two received and is broken into five categories, a base bid and four alternates reflecting various aspects of the proposed design. City Manager Russell Thompson told councilmembers that Community Enterprises, Inc. of Thomaston offered to donate to the project if the city agreed to exclude two of the four options from the project.
Option “A” involves partial closure of the northern portion of Park Drive at a cost of $46,700, and option “B” allows for elaborate brick work at the entrance to Silvertown for $479,200. Thompson said Community Enterprise officials voiced concern that road closure and brick work may adversely affect the historical integrity of the community.
Excluding the two options would reduce overall project cost by almost $526,000. In turn, the local enterprise may pick up the tab for one of the two remaining alternates, listed at $156,800 and $184,800. The “base” portion of the bid is $587,300.
Thompson told councilmembers the city currently has $118,000 in its park fund, $214,000 in the enterprise fund, $215,000 in reserves, and $520,000 in federal funding, totaling more than $1 million. He said he would make a formal recommendation to the council at the first November meeting.
One other bid was received for the project, from Greene Concrete Company, for $2.76 million.
In other money matters, Thompson sought approval of funds to purchase a passenger van for the local prison work detail. He explained that existing vans are in poor condition and one was recently wrecked, and said officials have “pulled the crews” until appropriate transportation is provided.
The council approved up to $31,000 to purchase a new van, if necessary, but asked Thompson to use his discretion in searching for an acceptable used vehicle at a lower price.
Members voted to approve an Electric Cities of Georgia year-end settlement and contract payment reimbursement in the form of a $6,709 refund check to the city; and voted to approve extension of a GEFA loan for local “clean water” storm drain projects to July 2020.
City Plans to Break Ground on New FD by Spring
A rendering of the southeast view of the proposed new fire department.
Published 10-24-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council approved payment of $150,000 to 2WR + Partners Architects last week, moving a step closer toward construction of a new fire department.
The Columbus-based firm submitted updated plans for the proposed complex, to be built on a five-acre tract of city-owned property at 109 North Church Street. The architectural fee is based on six percent of an estimated cost of $2.5 million for the project, according to City Manager Russell Thompson.
The site previously was shared by the Thomaston Police Department, Upson County Sheriff’s Office and Upson County Jail, and is current home to the local pardons and parole board office. In May, the council discussed the possibility of eventually expanding the project to include TPD in a “public safety complex.”
The new location would allow favorable reaction time to both the Northside and downtown areas, according to TFD Chief Renee Harris, who said the department has outgrown its current facility on West Thompson Street. The city’s new 107-foot ladder truck will not fit into the bay of the existing structure.
Construction could begin as early as March 2020, according to Thompson.
Mayor J.D. Stallings administered the oath of office to TFD Firefighter Nena Huckaby at the meeting.
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston City Council approved payment of $150,000 to 2WR + Partners Architects last week, moving a step closer toward construction of a new fire department.
The Columbus-based firm submitted updated plans for the proposed complex, to be built on a five-acre tract of city-owned property at 109 North Church Street. The architectural fee is based on six percent of an estimated cost of $2.5 million for the project, according to City Manager Russell Thompson.
The site previously was shared by the Thomaston Police Department, Upson County Sheriff’s Office and Upson County Jail, and is current home to the local pardons and parole board office. In May, the council discussed the possibility of eventually expanding the project to include TPD in a “public safety complex.”
The new location would allow favorable reaction time to both the Northside and downtown areas, according to TFD Chief Renee Harris, who said the department has outgrown its current facility on West Thompson Street. The city’s new 107-foot ladder truck will not fit into the bay of the existing structure.
Construction could begin as early as March 2020, according to Thompson.
Mayor J.D. Stallings administered the oath of office to TFD Firefighter Nena Huckaby at the meeting.
Burn Permits Now Available
Published 10-24-2019
The Georgia Forestry Commission has announced that burn permits are now available in Upson and surrounding counties.
“Due to the recent rains and the forecast for more rain in the next week, the GFC has resumed issuing outdoor burning permits,” according to Chief Ranger Jeff Kenerly, district safety officer for GFC. “We still need several inches of rainfall to end the drought, but we feel that with the increase in fuel moisture most outdoor burning can be conducted safely.”
“We would like to thank the public for their cooperation during the past two weeks,” he continued. “Most everyone in our counties understood the drought situation and the potential threat of wildfires. Please continue to be careful with fire and always obtain a permit before conducting any outdoor burning.”
Anyone with questions can call the local office at 706-646-6011 or visit the GFC website www.gatrees.org.
The Georgia Forestry Commission has announced that burn permits are now available in Upson and surrounding counties.
“Due to the recent rains and the forecast for more rain in the next week, the GFC has resumed issuing outdoor burning permits,” according to Chief Ranger Jeff Kenerly, district safety officer for GFC. “We still need several inches of rainfall to end the drought, but we feel that with the increase in fuel moisture most outdoor burning can be conducted safely.”
“We would like to thank the public for their cooperation during the past two weeks,” he continued. “Most everyone in our counties understood the drought situation and the potential threat of wildfires. Please continue to be careful with fire and always obtain a permit before conducting any outdoor burning.”
Anyone with questions can call the local office at 706-646-6011 or visit the GFC website www.gatrees.org.
Allen Appointed to NAHRO National Leadership Group
Published 10-17-2019
The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials has appointed Patricia A. Allen to serve a two-year term on the national International Research and Global Exchange Committee as of Oct. 13.
Allen has been the executive director of the Thomaston Housing Authority for six years. Prior to obtaining the director’s position, she served 14 years with the Barnesville and Jackson housing authorities.
She currently serves on, and is chair or vice chair of, several committees with the Georgia Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, and the Southeast Regional Council of NAHRO. Allen holds a bachelor’s degree from Mercer University and several NAHRO certifications.
“Now, more than ever, leadership counts,” said incoming NAHRO President Sunny Shaw. “That is why we are glad to have Patricia among our national leaders. Patricia’s experience and dedication will help further NAHRO’s mission – to provide its members with the resources they need to create and maintain affordable housing and nurture sustainable, vibrant communities nationwide.”
The IRGE committee promotes and shares global exchanges of information and develops relationships that assist NAHRO membership and all those engaged in the development and operation of housing and community development programs. IRGE committee members serve as NAHRO’s ambassadors for goodwill, relationship building and information sharing with organizations with a similar mission around the world.
NAHRO, established in 1933, is a membership organization of nearly 20,000 housing and community development agencies and professionals throughout the United States whose mission is to create affordable housing and safe, viable communities that enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those of low and moderate income.
NAHRO’s membership administers more than three million housing units for 7.6 million people.
The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials has appointed Patricia A. Allen to serve a two-year term on the national International Research and Global Exchange Committee as of Oct. 13.
Allen has been the executive director of the Thomaston Housing Authority for six years. Prior to obtaining the director’s position, she served 14 years with the Barnesville and Jackson housing authorities.
She currently serves on, and is chair or vice chair of, several committees with the Georgia Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, and the Southeast Regional Council of NAHRO. Allen holds a bachelor’s degree from Mercer University and several NAHRO certifications.
“Now, more than ever, leadership counts,” said incoming NAHRO President Sunny Shaw. “That is why we are glad to have Patricia among our national leaders. Patricia’s experience and dedication will help further NAHRO’s mission – to provide its members with the resources they need to create and maintain affordable housing and nurture sustainable, vibrant communities nationwide.”
The IRGE committee promotes and shares global exchanges of information and develops relationships that assist NAHRO membership and all those engaged in the development and operation of housing and community development programs. IRGE committee members serve as NAHRO’s ambassadors for goodwill, relationship building and information sharing with organizations with a similar mission around the world.
NAHRO, established in 1933, is a membership organization of nearly 20,000 housing and community development agencies and professionals throughout the United States whose mission is to create affordable housing and safe, viable communities that enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those of low and moderate income.
NAHRO’s membership administers more than three million housing units for 7.6 million people.
Lady Knights Win Region
Published 10-17-2019
In the Lady Knights’ first season under new head coach Christopher Owens, the team battled through 15 sets of volleyball last Saturday to win Region 2-AAAA and clinch the number one seed in the state playoffs. See more on Page 10. Photo courtesy of the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education.
In the Lady Knights’ first season under new head coach Christopher Owens, the team battled through 15 sets of volleyball last Saturday to win Region 2-AAAA and clinch the number one seed in the state playoffs. See more on Page 10. Photo courtesy of the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education.
County’s ‘Blight Project’ Moves Forward
Before: A dilapidated structure at 1982 Miller Street is condemned.
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During: Flint Sight Solutions demolishes and removes the structure.
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After: Land is graded and restored, and a bill is sent to the owner.
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Published 10-17-2019
Property owners, take note.
The Upson County Building and Zoning Department and code enforcement officials are taking steps to insure that abandoned and/or dilapidated structures in the county are either upgraded or removed in compliance with existing ordinances. If owners fail to act, the county will remove the structures, and owners will be held responsible for the cost.
County officials initiated the “blight project” months ago, identifying and creating a list of abandoned and dilapidated structures throughout the county. Letters have or are in the process of being sent to the property owners, and copies of notices also are posted on the properties stating they are “condemned and unsafe.”
In accordance with the ordinance, property owners are given a certain time period to comply or file an appeal. If no action is taken, the county is authorized to demolish structures at the owner’s expense. In addition, citations may be issued to current owners.
Upson County started the project by identifying its own questionable properties and taking necessary steps to upgrade or remove them.
The first demolition project took place at 1982 Miller Street, where a condemned structure was removed and land was cleaned by Flint Sight Solutions. Others will follow if property owners fail to take responsibility, according to county officials.
Property owners, take note.
The Upson County Building and Zoning Department and code enforcement officials are taking steps to insure that abandoned and/or dilapidated structures in the county are either upgraded or removed in compliance with existing ordinances. If owners fail to act, the county will remove the structures, and owners will be held responsible for the cost.
County officials initiated the “blight project” months ago, identifying and creating a list of abandoned and dilapidated structures throughout the county. Letters have or are in the process of being sent to the property owners, and copies of notices also are posted on the properties stating they are “condemned and unsafe.”
In accordance with the ordinance, property owners are given a certain time period to comply or file an appeal. If no action is taken, the county is authorized to demolish structures at the owner’s expense. In addition, citations may be issued to current owners.
Upson County started the project by identifying its own questionable properties and taking necessary steps to upgrade or remove them.
The first demolition project took place at 1982 Miller Street, where a condemned structure was removed and land was cleaned by Flint Sight Solutions. Others will follow if property owners fail to take responsibility, according to county officials.
Woodard Crowned Homecoming Queen
Published 10-10-2019
Upson Lee Senior Brittany Woodard was crowned Homecoming Queen during halftime of the Upson Lee High School Homecoming Game at Matthews Field Friday night. Woodard is pictured beside Bobby Childs.
Upson Lee Senior Brittany Woodard was crowned Homecoming Queen during halftime of the Upson Lee High School Homecoming Game at Matthews Field Friday night. Woodard is pictured beside Bobby Childs.
Construction Advances at New Dunkin’ Donuts/Baskin Robbins Location
Published 10-3-2019
Crews continue work at the site of the new Dunkin’ Donuts/Baskin Robbins restaurant and have now added framing on the site. With projections to invest $1.4 million and create 35 new jobs locally, the restaurant could open as early as December.
Crews continue work at the site of the new Dunkin’ Donuts/Baskin Robbins restaurant and have now added framing on the site. With projections to invest $1.4 million and create 35 new jobs locally, the restaurant could open as early as December.
No Burn Permits for Upson
Drought Conditions Increase Wildfire Threat Throughout State
Published 10-3-2019
Due to severe drought conditions, weather forecasts and current fire activity, the Georgia Forestry Commission has postponed issuing burn permits in Upson, Pike, Lamar, Spalding and Clayton counties.
The Environmental Protection Division’s summer burning restrictions ended Sept. 30. Normally, burn permits for the area could have been obtained starting Oct. 1, but the number of Georgia wildfires and the amount of acreage burned has increased in September.
The Georgia Forestry Commission recognizes the importance of and promotes prescribed burning for the many wildfire prevention, forest management and agriculture benefits it provides. However, right now the commission is asking everyone to “be extremely vigilant when doing any open burning and to wait for better conditions for burning yard debris.”
Conditions will be monitored closely in each county and, as soon as conditions improve, officials will begin issuing permits.
“These have to be the driest conditions that I have seen at this time of the year,” stated Chief Ranger Jeff Kenerly. “We have had the drought index hit 750 before in Lamar County, but at this time the KBDI is over 700 for all five of our unit’s counties.”
The Keetch-Byrom Drough index is a measurement of available moisture in the soil, and the KBDI scale runs from zero to 800.
Anyone with questions can call the local office at 706-646-6011 or check burning conditions at the GFC website www.gatrees.org.
Published 10-3-2019
Due to severe drought conditions, weather forecasts and current fire activity, the Georgia Forestry Commission has postponed issuing burn permits in Upson, Pike, Lamar, Spalding and Clayton counties.
The Environmental Protection Division’s summer burning restrictions ended Sept. 30. Normally, burn permits for the area could have been obtained starting Oct. 1, but the number of Georgia wildfires and the amount of acreage burned has increased in September.
The Georgia Forestry Commission recognizes the importance of and promotes prescribed burning for the many wildfire prevention, forest management and agriculture benefits it provides. However, right now the commission is asking everyone to “be extremely vigilant when doing any open burning and to wait for better conditions for burning yard debris.”
Conditions will be monitored closely in each county and, as soon as conditions improve, officials will begin issuing permits.
“These have to be the driest conditions that I have seen at this time of the year,” stated Chief Ranger Jeff Kenerly. “We have had the drought index hit 750 before in Lamar County, but at this time the KBDI is over 700 for all five of our unit’s counties.”
The Keetch-Byrom Drough index is a measurement of available moisture in the soil, and the KBDI scale runs from zero to 800.
Anyone with questions can call the local office at 706-646-6011 or check burning conditions at the GFC website www.gatrees.org.
Community Care Donates $1 Million in 10 Years
Community Care Thrift Store, located on Short E Street in Thomaston.
Published 10-3-2019
By Luke Haney
In only 10 years, the Community Care Thrift Store has been able to make donations of more than $1 million to the Thomaston-Upson community.
Betty Goins began working with the House of Care in 2006 as a volunteer donations processor. In 2007 she accepted the director position. Through this she was able to learn about the donation process and how to handle items.
In 2008, several members of the HOC visited a thrift store in Forsyth. After taking many notes and observing the process, members decided that they had the ability to create their own thrift store.
Goins decided, in March of 2009, that she wanted to begin a new ministry and she thought that a new thrift store would benefit the community. While still under First Baptist Church, Goins saw this as an opportunity to increase the benevolence fund. The missions team gave Goins information on how to start the ministry and what “hoops” needed to be jumped through. She also reached out to the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce during her research period to gather as much information as possible.
After months of working on forms, a business plan and an approved budget, Goins was able to secure a loan of $5,000 and had donations of $250. While looking over the donations, she realized that it was exactly the amount that was required for her three-month operation budget. In addition to this, many blessings were received. All shelving that was in the original layout of the building was donated to the project, along with a cash register and materials.
In August of 2009, the Community Care Thrift Store opened its doors and since then has grown to surpass all expectations. “What started as a way to fund one benevolence fund now donates to many organizations,” says Goins.
Organizations that have received donations from the Community Care Thrift Store include UCMA CAP; UCMA Transient Fund; Soup Kitchen; Heritage Pregnancy Center; House of Care: food, equipment; Cancer Car Ministry; New Life Summer Program; New Life Jail Ministry; Camp Joy CDP; THA Homework Academy; Gilmore Center; Food for Thought; Empty Stocking Fund; Christmas Kitchen; Thanksgiving Dinner; SERTOMA Back to School; and S.U.P.P.O.R.T.
Betty Goins is adamant that this could never have been done alone. This was made possible through the immense support she has been given. Volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that each donation and every customer is cared for in the best manner possible.
By Luke Haney
In only 10 years, the Community Care Thrift Store has been able to make donations of more than $1 million to the Thomaston-Upson community.
Betty Goins began working with the House of Care in 2006 as a volunteer donations processor. In 2007 she accepted the director position. Through this she was able to learn about the donation process and how to handle items.
In 2008, several members of the HOC visited a thrift store in Forsyth. After taking many notes and observing the process, members decided that they had the ability to create their own thrift store.
Goins decided, in March of 2009, that she wanted to begin a new ministry and she thought that a new thrift store would benefit the community. While still under First Baptist Church, Goins saw this as an opportunity to increase the benevolence fund. The missions team gave Goins information on how to start the ministry and what “hoops” needed to be jumped through. She also reached out to the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce during her research period to gather as much information as possible.
After months of working on forms, a business plan and an approved budget, Goins was able to secure a loan of $5,000 and had donations of $250. While looking over the donations, she realized that it was exactly the amount that was required for her three-month operation budget. In addition to this, many blessings were received. All shelving that was in the original layout of the building was donated to the project, along with a cash register and materials.
In August of 2009, the Community Care Thrift Store opened its doors and since then has grown to surpass all expectations. “What started as a way to fund one benevolence fund now donates to many organizations,” says Goins.
Organizations that have received donations from the Community Care Thrift Store include UCMA CAP; UCMA Transient Fund; Soup Kitchen; Heritage Pregnancy Center; House of Care: food, equipment; Cancer Car Ministry; New Life Summer Program; New Life Jail Ministry; Camp Joy CDP; THA Homework Academy; Gilmore Center; Food for Thought; Empty Stocking Fund; Christmas Kitchen; Thanksgiving Dinner; SERTOMA Back to School; and S.U.P.P.O.R.T.
Betty Goins is adamant that this could never have been done alone. This was made possible through the immense support she has been given. Volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that each donation and every customer is cared for in the best manner possible.
Upson-lee High's Graduation Rate Well Above State Average
Published 9-26-2019
Upson Lee High School has exceeded the state average graduation rate for the fifth consecutive year, posting a 90.9 percent rate compared to the state average of 82 percent, according to the Georgia Department of Education.
Thomaston-Upson’s 2019 rate ranks second in the Griffin Regional Educational Service Agency District, surpassed only by Pike County’s 92.9 percent graduation rate. Pike and Upson are followed in the RESA district by Fayette at 90.2 percent, Griffin-Spalding at 88.6, Henry at 87, Newton at 86.9, Butts at 83.5, and Lamar at 83.3 percent.
Data is collected using the “adjusted cohort calculation,” a uniform method of determining graduation rates required by the U.S. Department of Education.
“I tracked back to when the {federal DOE} required all states and local education agencies to begin using the {current} method,” said Karen Truesdale, director of school and community relations at T-U School System, “and ULHS has risen from 64.5 percent in 2011 to 90.9 percent this year. I think this is fantastic news.”
Upson Lee High School has exceeded the state average graduation rate for the fifth consecutive year, posting a 90.9 percent rate compared to the state average of 82 percent, according to the Georgia Department of Education.
Thomaston-Upson’s 2019 rate ranks second in the Griffin Regional Educational Service Agency District, surpassed only by Pike County’s 92.9 percent graduation rate. Pike and Upson are followed in the RESA district by Fayette at 90.2 percent, Griffin-Spalding at 88.6, Henry at 87, Newton at 86.9, Butts at 83.5, and Lamar at 83.3 percent.
Data is collected using the “adjusted cohort calculation,” a uniform method of determining graduation rates required by the U.S. Department of Education.
“I tracked back to when the {federal DOE} required all states and local education agencies to begin using the {current} method,” said Karen Truesdale, director of school and community relations at T-U School System, “and ULHS has risen from 64.5 percent in 2011 to 90.9 percent this year. I think this is fantastic news.”
UL NJROTC Receives “Outstanding” Grade in Yearly Inspection
Published 9-26-2019
The Upson Lee NJROTC color guard (Lee Ingram, Jessica Robinson, Colleen King, Camden Bates) presents the national colors at the annual Area Managers Inspection parade. Leading the sword salute is Cadet Lieutenant Commander Grace Geldbach, battalion executive officer. See more in next week’s edition of The Beacon.
The Upson Lee NJROTC color guard (Lee Ingram, Jessica Robinson, Colleen King, Camden Bates) presents the national colors at the annual Area Managers Inspection parade. Leading the sword salute is Cadet Lieutenant Commander Grace Geldbach, battalion executive officer. See more in next week’s edition of The Beacon.
35 Missing Scouts Found Unharmed at Sprewell Bluff
Published 9-26-2019
Thirty-five Boy Scouts from Troop 143 in Johns Creek, Ga. were reported missing on Flint River Saturday, but all 35 were located and sent home without injury, according to a report from the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.
Thomas Wagner, an employee at Camp Thunder, told Sgt. Derric Pearson he launched the 35 scouts on the river at approximately 9 a.m. and that he lost contact with the group at Pasley Shoals. The scouts had split into two smaller groups, one stopping near Pasley Shoals and the other continuing down the river.
Sgt. Pearson contacted Richard Hickmon of Thurston Fire, Search and Rescue for assistance.
Wagner later was able to make contact with one troop leader, who said he and 16 scouts were at a residence near Pasley Shoals. Hickmon and Thurston Rescue were dispatched to the location and retrieved the group.
Pearson located the remaining 19 scouts near the “back side” of Sprewell Bluff.
“We collected all the scouts and equipment and conducted a head count to ensure everyone was accounted for,” Pearson said in his report. “After everyone was loaded on the bus and the equipment was loaded, the scouts and scout leaders returned to Camp Thunder. All the scouts appeared to be in good spirits.”
Thirty-five Boy Scouts from Troop 143 in Johns Creek, Ga. were reported missing on Flint River Saturday, but all 35 were located and sent home without injury, according to a report from the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.
Thomas Wagner, an employee at Camp Thunder, told Sgt. Derric Pearson he launched the 35 scouts on the river at approximately 9 a.m. and that he lost contact with the group at Pasley Shoals. The scouts had split into two smaller groups, one stopping near Pasley Shoals and the other continuing down the river.
Sgt. Pearson contacted Richard Hickmon of Thurston Fire, Search and Rescue for assistance.
Wagner later was able to make contact with one troop leader, who said he and 16 scouts were at a residence near Pasley Shoals. Hickmon and Thurston Rescue were dispatched to the location and retrieved the group.
Pearson located the remaining 19 scouts near the “back side” of Sprewell Bluff.
“We collected all the scouts and equipment and conducted a head count to ensure everyone was accounted for,” Pearson said in his report. “After everyone was loaded on the bus and the equipment was loaded, the scouts and scout leaders returned to Camp Thunder. All the scouts appeared to be in good spirits.”
Reynolds to Serve 25 Years for Spraggins’ April Murder
Published 9-26-2019
By Bridge Turner
Jackie Lee Reynolds entered a guilty plea this month in Upson Superior Court and was sentenced by Judge Fletcher Sams to serve 25 years in prison in connection with the April 10 death of 25-year-old Kyle James Spraggins.
Reynolds, 22, originally charged with murder, pled to a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter plus possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. He received 20 years to serve for manslaughter, plus five years to serve for possession of a firearm during the crime.
The reduced charge was accepted after consulting with the victim’s family and law enforcement, according to Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Ben Coker.
Reynolds and Spraggins had been arguing about drugs and a 9mm pistol, according to reports, when Reynolds shot Spraggins at 1748 Hendricks Church Road in Thomaston.
Recent arrests reported by the Upson County Sheriff’s Office include: Jessica Marie Wealot, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute; Nigel Latrell Adams, aggravated assault; Kirstin Laquan Beckham, aggravated assault; Michael Charles Pennyman, felony probation violation (child molestation); Shantara Chante Lyons, possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, felony probation violation; Christy Lynell McKinley, felony probation violation (possession of meth); Scotty Geron Zellner, felony probation violation (possession of meth); Stephanie Nicole Bell, felony parole violation (possession of meth); Christopher Scott Crumley, possession of a Schedule II controlled substance; Stephanie Nicole Decosta, criminal damage to property – 2nd degree; Jeffery Oneal Matthews, felony probation violation; Lemarcus Deondris Parks, felony parole violation.
By Bridge Turner
Jackie Lee Reynolds entered a guilty plea this month in Upson Superior Court and was sentenced by Judge Fletcher Sams to serve 25 years in prison in connection with the April 10 death of 25-year-old Kyle James Spraggins.
Reynolds, 22, originally charged with murder, pled to a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter plus possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. He received 20 years to serve for manslaughter, plus five years to serve for possession of a firearm during the crime.
The reduced charge was accepted after consulting with the victim’s family and law enforcement, according to Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Ben Coker.
Reynolds and Spraggins had been arguing about drugs and a 9mm pistol, according to reports, when Reynolds shot Spraggins at 1748 Hendricks Church Road in Thomaston.
Recent arrests reported by the Upson County Sheriff’s Office include: Jessica Marie Wealot, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute; Nigel Latrell Adams, aggravated assault; Kirstin Laquan Beckham, aggravated assault; Michael Charles Pennyman, felony probation violation (child molestation); Shantara Chante Lyons, possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, felony probation violation; Christy Lynell McKinley, felony probation violation (possession of meth); Scotty Geron Zellner, felony probation violation (possession of meth); Stephanie Nicole Bell, felony parole violation (possession of meth); Christopher Scott Crumley, possession of a Schedule II controlled substance; Stephanie Nicole Decosta, criminal damage to property – 2nd degree; Jeffery Oneal Matthews, felony probation violation; Lemarcus Deondris Parks, felony parole violation.
Mr. and Miss Upson Lee Announced
Published 9-19-2019
Congratulations to Mr. and Miss Upson-Lee High School 2019-20: Jaylen King and McKenzie Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Upson Lee are voted in every school year by their classmates. Shown, left to right, are TU Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico, Jaylen King, McKenzie Smith and ULHS Principal Dr. Jarvis Price.
Congratulations to Mr. and Miss Upson-Lee High School 2019-20: Jaylen King and McKenzie Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Upson Lee are voted in every school year by their classmates. Shown, left to right, are TU Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico, Jaylen King, McKenzie Smith and ULHS Principal Dr. Jarvis Price.
Bizarre Accident Claims Life
City of Thomaston's Utilities Payment Drop-Off
Published 9-19-2019
By Bridge Turner
A bizarre accident Sept. 6 at the Government Complex utility payment drive-thru resulted in the death of an 84-year-old Thomaston woman.
After her SUV lunged forward and struck a pole, Bettie Jo Barfield Allen of 4th Avenue remained pinned by her vehicle door for several minutes before being noticed. She died four days later at Navicent Health Medical Center in Macon from injuries sustained in the accident.
Mrs. Allen would have celebrated her 85th birthday Sept. 15.
“The city offers our most sincere and deepest sympathies for the family during this time of their loss,” said City Manager Russell Thompson. “This was a tragic accident, and we will continue to keep the family in our prayers.”
Video footage at the drive-thru facility showed Allen unfastening her seat belt and opening her vehicle door to retrieve the payment canister. She dropped the canister and leaned down to pick it up, at which time her vehicle began to move forward and she fell partially out of the door. Her head struck two concrete posts, and she was pinned by the door and a post.
It is likely that she did not place her vehicle in park, and that her foot slipped off the brake when she leaned out the door, according to a Thomaston Police Department report.
Video showed a black SUV pulling into the lane behind Allen’s vehicle, then backing out and leaving the area. It is unknown whether the driver of the SUV was able to see Allen because of the position of her body, the vehicle door, and the post, the report stated.
Minutes later, Marcus Bussey of Thomaston drove his gold SUV into the same lane behind Allen and immediately left his vehicle to render aid. As Bussey was attempting to free Mrs. Allen, video showed multiple people running out of the building to help, and showed Emergency Medical Service arriving at the scene.
Allen was transported to Upson Regional Medical Center, and later was transferred to Macon.
The Georgia statute regarding rendering aid applies only to parties involved in an accident, according to TPD Chief Mike Richardson. Someone simply witnessing a dire situation, without being involved in the incident, cannot be charged with failure to render aid.
The video feed at the utility payment area of City Hall is stored directly to DVR, and is not monitored by anyone, according to city officials.
By Bridge Turner
A bizarre accident Sept. 6 at the Government Complex utility payment drive-thru resulted in the death of an 84-year-old Thomaston woman.
After her SUV lunged forward and struck a pole, Bettie Jo Barfield Allen of 4th Avenue remained pinned by her vehicle door for several minutes before being noticed. She died four days later at Navicent Health Medical Center in Macon from injuries sustained in the accident.
Mrs. Allen would have celebrated her 85th birthday Sept. 15.
“The city offers our most sincere and deepest sympathies for the family during this time of their loss,” said City Manager Russell Thompson. “This was a tragic accident, and we will continue to keep the family in our prayers.”
Video footage at the drive-thru facility showed Allen unfastening her seat belt and opening her vehicle door to retrieve the payment canister. She dropped the canister and leaned down to pick it up, at which time her vehicle began to move forward and she fell partially out of the door. Her head struck two concrete posts, and she was pinned by the door and a post.
It is likely that she did not place her vehicle in park, and that her foot slipped off the brake when she leaned out the door, according to a Thomaston Police Department report.
Video showed a black SUV pulling into the lane behind Allen’s vehicle, then backing out and leaving the area. It is unknown whether the driver of the SUV was able to see Allen because of the position of her body, the vehicle door, and the post, the report stated.
Minutes later, Marcus Bussey of Thomaston drove his gold SUV into the same lane behind Allen and immediately left his vehicle to render aid. As Bussey was attempting to free Mrs. Allen, video showed multiple people running out of the building to help, and showed Emergency Medical Service arriving at the scene.
Allen was transported to Upson Regional Medical Center, and later was transferred to Macon.
The Georgia statute regarding rendering aid applies only to parties involved in an accident, according to TPD Chief Mike Richardson. Someone simply witnessing a dire situation, without being involved in the incident, cannot be charged with failure to render aid.
The video feed at the utility payment area of City Hall is stored directly to DVR, and is not monitored by anyone, according to city officials.
dunkin' breaking ground
Published 9-12-2019
Crews began work this week on construction of a Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant which is projected to invest $1.4 million and create 35 new jobs in Thomaston. The site is between Waffle House and McDonald’s in the Northcreek Shopping Center. The new restaurant could open as soon as December.
Crews began work this week on construction of a Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant which is projected to invest $1.4 million and create 35 new jobs in Thomaston. The site is between Waffle House and McDonald’s in the Northcreek Shopping Center. The new restaurant could open as soon as December.
Counterfeit Bills Discovered at Local Businesses
Published 9-12-2019
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston Police Department received five separate reports of counterfeit $20, $50, and $100 bills being circulated at local businesses between Tuesday and Thursday last week.
Most of the counterfeit money was discovered in the Northside area, but one $100 note was used to pay a power bill at Upson Electric Membership Corporation. Alerts started with a call to SouthCrest Bank around 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3.
A teller at SouthCrest told Officer Douglas Miolen that a male and female driving a silver Cadillac SUV left the bank after inquiring about the authenticity of several counterfeit $20 and $50 bills. The vehicle was located at Big Chic Uptown, where the driver, Dennis Sanders, and passenger, Serenity Norton, were questioned by officers.
Norton told Miolen that she received the money from her brother, who had gotten it from “someone else” she “did not know,” according to the report. Norton added that she went to the bank to ask a teller if the money was fake. Sanders, the driver, said he “had nothing to do with them and was giving Norton a ride for gas money.”
Nine $20 bills and two $50 bills were confiscated.
At 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, Officer Dekota Riddick was dispatched to K Beauty Supply, 1106 Highway 19 North. Store manager Belinda Underwood told Riddick that a white male wearing a white Nike tank top and black hat purchased a do-rag using a counterfeit $100 bill, according to the report. The bill was placed into evidence.
On Thursday, Sept. 5, three instances were reported, beginning at 2:35 p.m. at Dollar Tree in the Walmart Shopping Center. Store manager Ashley Eaton told Patrolman Hakeim Griggs that her assistant manager, India Willis, received notice from the bank that a counterfeit $100 bill was discovered in the store’s deposit.
According to Dollar Tree staff, the person who passed the bill was “a male who appeared to be bi-racial or Hispanic.
The second call Thursday came at 3 p.m., when Sgt. Whitney Lawrence was dispatched to Hibbet Sports, located in the same shopping center. An employee there told Lawrence that the “light-skinned” male subject wearing the Nike shirt and hat “seen on Facebook” used a counterfeit $100 bill to buy a $10 shoe cleaning kit the previous day. The subject was given change for the fake $100, according to the report.
Lawrence was dispatched again at 4 p.m. Thursday to Upson EMC, where Tina Grossman said a customer had paid a $222 power bill using two $100 bills, one of which was counterfeit. When questioned, the customer said she received the bill from United Bank in Walmart. After further investigation, TPD determined that the woman had no knowledge of the counterfeit bill.
Anyone with information regarding the distribution of counterfeit bills is asked to call the TPD at 706-647-5455.
By Bridge Turner
The Thomaston Police Department received five separate reports of counterfeit $20, $50, and $100 bills being circulated at local businesses between Tuesday and Thursday last week.
Most of the counterfeit money was discovered in the Northside area, but one $100 note was used to pay a power bill at Upson Electric Membership Corporation. Alerts started with a call to SouthCrest Bank around 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3.
A teller at SouthCrest told Officer Douglas Miolen that a male and female driving a silver Cadillac SUV left the bank after inquiring about the authenticity of several counterfeit $20 and $50 bills. The vehicle was located at Big Chic Uptown, where the driver, Dennis Sanders, and passenger, Serenity Norton, were questioned by officers.
Norton told Miolen that she received the money from her brother, who had gotten it from “someone else” she “did not know,” according to the report. Norton added that she went to the bank to ask a teller if the money was fake. Sanders, the driver, said he “had nothing to do with them and was giving Norton a ride for gas money.”
Nine $20 bills and two $50 bills were confiscated.
At 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, Officer Dekota Riddick was dispatched to K Beauty Supply, 1106 Highway 19 North. Store manager Belinda Underwood told Riddick that a white male wearing a white Nike tank top and black hat purchased a do-rag using a counterfeit $100 bill, according to the report. The bill was placed into evidence.
On Thursday, Sept. 5, three instances were reported, beginning at 2:35 p.m. at Dollar Tree in the Walmart Shopping Center. Store manager Ashley Eaton told Patrolman Hakeim Griggs that her assistant manager, India Willis, received notice from the bank that a counterfeit $100 bill was discovered in the store’s deposit.
According to Dollar Tree staff, the person who passed the bill was “a male who appeared to be bi-racial or Hispanic.
The second call Thursday came at 3 p.m., when Sgt. Whitney Lawrence was dispatched to Hibbet Sports, located in the same shopping center. An employee there told Lawrence that the “light-skinned” male subject wearing the Nike shirt and hat “seen on Facebook” used a counterfeit $100 bill to buy a $10 shoe cleaning kit the previous day. The subject was given change for the fake $100, according to the report.
Lawrence was dispatched again at 4 p.m. Thursday to Upson EMC, where Tina Grossman said a customer had paid a $222 power bill using two $100 bills, one of which was counterfeit. When questioned, the customer said she received the bill from United Bank in Walmart. After further investigation, TPD determined that the woman had no knowledge of the counterfeit bill.
Anyone with information regarding the distribution of counterfeit bills is asked to call the TPD at 706-647-5455.
City, County & IDA to Form Work Group for Sewage Study
Published 9-5-2019
By Bridge Turner
Members of three local governing bodies agreed last week to form a work group to answer multiple questions surrounding wastewater service delivery to Technology Park and other potential industrial locations in the county.
City and county managers, along with members of the city council and county commission, gathered at the Industrial Development Authority meeting to discuss a proposal from the city to accommodate sewage needs at the park. The talk ended in a stalemate.
IDA members expressed the need to know how much wastewater capacity is available before they actively recruit industry, and City Manager Russell Thompson said he needs more specific information about a potential industry before he can provide the requested estimates.
“You tell us what we have, and what you can accommodate today,” said Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, who also sits on the IDA board.
“I can tell you what you can accommodate once you bring me a prospect and I understand the load,” Thompson replied.
“What you told us at our last meeting was that we had none,” Allen responded.
“From a hydraulic loading, based on the last analysis, you’re tapped out,” Thompson said. What I’m saying is if I’m going to have to make capital improvements to the system, to ensure the location of a new development, I want to make sure it’s a good business case for the city.”
The exchange was sparked by a letter from Mayor J.D. Stallings to IDA Chair Carson Gleaton, in which the city outlined its proposed solution to service provision at Technology Park. In the letter, the city offered 1,000 gallons per day of guaranteed sewage capacity for every $10,235 the IDA contributes to a “crossover project” involving Bell Creek and Town Branch facilities.
Cost of the crossover project is approximately $2 million, according to the letter.
“As we stand, the city is looking at about a $5.3 million project at Town Branch and the interceptor pipe that would connect to the transfer pipe,” Thompson said. “It’s a total of $7.5 million if all that goes through.”
The proposal also included a stipulation that the IDA participate financially in future capital repairs and improvements to the Town Branch facility.
The IDA is funded through contributions from the city and county.
“The IDA has no possible way to generate its own revenue, so how could the IDA commit to an agreement to participate in maintenance and operations cost? That’s a real problem,” IDA member Steve Rush said. “I think that once we buy capacity, that should be it for us. Maintenance should be included in the agreement.”
The proposal is contingent upon the city and county reaching an agreement with respect to sharing ad valorem revenue generated by development in Technology Park, according to the letter, which was drafted by Joel Bentley. During the discussion, Bentley, who serves as attorney for both the city and IDA, recused himself from further negotiation.
“I have an absolute conflict of interest. I can’t participate in negotiation between the parties,” Bentley said. “I’ll be happy to tell you what the law is regarding intergovernmental agreements, but I’ll have to recuse myself from anything further.”
Bentley said he had spoken with County Attorney Paschal English, and that English offered to draft the IDA’s portion of a future agreement.
The maximum capacity offered in the city’s proposal is 150,000 gallons per day, and the letter states that IDA future requests for discharge will “need to be coordinated carefully” with the city.
“What about timing,” Rush asked. “If we wrote a check today and said we want 150,000 gallons of capacity, when do we receive that?”
“If you wrote a $500,000 check today, I’m $1.7 million short,” Thompson replied. “I would then have to ask my city council if they wanted to invest the other, or if they want to wait until we have financial commitment to fund the whole thing.”
“So basically we wouldn’t have anything until the funding was understood and identified. And that may or may not happen,” Rush said. “I’m not sure of the value of this to us.”
“What do we have… It’s somewhere between zero and ‘we might can squeeze something out, depending on what you bring here’,” Allen asked.
“Correct,” Thompson responded. “With the right investment, and with the right jobs, we’ll service anything.”
Any new industrial development outside the park, but within the city limits, would be subject to capacity approval by the city, but would not require IDA participation in funding, according to Thompson. He added that completion of the project to increase sewage capacity would take 10 months from acquisition of funding, provided federal money is not needed.
“This obviously is going to be a very long conversation,” concluded Allen,” and I don’t know that we’re going to get there today.”
Also present at the meeting were Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head, city councilmembers Don Greathouse and Lakeitha Reeves, and county commissioners James Ellington and Benjamin Watson.
By Bridge Turner
Members of three local governing bodies agreed last week to form a work group to answer multiple questions surrounding wastewater service delivery to Technology Park and other potential industrial locations in the county.
City and county managers, along with members of the city council and county commission, gathered at the Industrial Development Authority meeting to discuss a proposal from the city to accommodate sewage needs at the park. The talk ended in a stalemate.
IDA members expressed the need to know how much wastewater capacity is available before they actively recruit industry, and City Manager Russell Thompson said he needs more specific information about a potential industry before he can provide the requested estimates.
“You tell us what we have, and what you can accommodate today,” said Upson County Commission Chairman Norman Allen, who also sits on the IDA board.
“I can tell you what you can accommodate once you bring me a prospect and I understand the load,” Thompson replied.
“What you told us at our last meeting was that we had none,” Allen responded.
“From a hydraulic loading, based on the last analysis, you’re tapped out,” Thompson said. What I’m saying is if I’m going to have to make capital improvements to the system, to ensure the location of a new development, I want to make sure it’s a good business case for the city.”
The exchange was sparked by a letter from Mayor J.D. Stallings to IDA Chair Carson Gleaton, in which the city outlined its proposed solution to service provision at Technology Park. In the letter, the city offered 1,000 gallons per day of guaranteed sewage capacity for every $10,235 the IDA contributes to a “crossover project” involving Bell Creek and Town Branch facilities.
Cost of the crossover project is approximately $2 million, according to the letter.
“As we stand, the city is looking at about a $5.3 million project at Town Branch and the interceptor pipe that would connect to the transfer pipe,” Thompson said. “It’s a total of $7.5 million if all that goes through.”
The proposal also included a stipulation that the IDA participate financially in future capital repairs and improvements to the Town Branch facility.
The IDA is funded through contributions from the city and county.
“The IDA has no possible way to generate its own revenue, so how could the IDA commit to an agreement to participate in maintenance and operations cost? That’s a real problem,” IDA member Steve Rush said. “I think that once we buy capacity, that should be it for us. Maintenance should be included in the agreement.”
The proposal is contingent upon the city and county reaching an agreement with respect to sharing ad valorem revenue generated by development in Technology Park, according to the letter, which was drafted by Joel Bentley. During the discussion, Bentley, who serves as attorney for both the city and IDA, recused himself from further negotiation.
“I have an absolute conflict of interest. I can’t participate in negotiation between the parties,” Bentley said. “I’ll be happy to tell you what the law is regarding intergovernmental agreements, but I’ll have to recuse myself from anything further.”
Bentley said he had spoken with County Attorney Paschal English, and that English offered to draft the IDA’s portion of a future agreement.
The maximum capacity offered in the city’s proposal is 150,000 gallons per day, and the letter states that IDA future requests for discharge will “need to be coordinated carefully” with the city.
“What about timing,” Rush asked. “If we wrote a check today and said we want 150,000 gallons of capacity, when do we receive that?”
“If you wrote a $500,000 check today, I’m $1.7 million short,” Thompson replied. “I would then have to ask my city council if they wanted to invest the other, or if they want to wait until we have financial commitment to fund the whole thing.”
“So basically we wouldn’t have anything until the funding was understood and identified. And that may or may not happen,” Rush said. “I’m not sure of the value of this to us.”
“What do we have… It’s somewhere between zero and ‘we might can squeeze something out, depending on what you bring here’,” Allen asked.
“Correct,” Thompson responded. “With the right investment, and with the right jobs, we’ll service anything.”
Any new industrial development outside the park, but within the city limits, would be subject to capacity approval by the city, but would not require IDA participation in funding, according to Thompson. He added that completion of the project to increase sewage capacity would take 10 months from acquisition of funding, provided federal money is not needed.
“This obviously is going to be a very long conversation,” concluded Allen,” and I don’t know that we’re going to get there today.”
Also present at the meeting were Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head, city councilmembers Don Greathouse and Lakeitha Reeves, and county commissioners James Ellington and Benjamin Watson.
City Adopts Millage Rates With No Increases for ‘19
Published 8-28-2019
By Bridge Turner
Councilmembers voted unanimously last week to approve setting the city millage rate at 3.56 for 2019, reflecting no increase over the previous year’s property taxation.
The millage rate funds general operation of city government.
Council also voted unanimously to maintain the joint projects millage rate at 4.89 for endeavors shared by the city and Upson County. Holding at last year’s rate will create a $126,000 deficit, according to City Manager Russell Thompson, but joint project fund balance reserves can be used to offset the difference.
In other money matters, the council approved a low bid of $48,900 from Pippin & Associates of Gainesville for installation of various sidewalks throughout the city; and approved the execution of an agreement with the city engineer which reflects an $8,000 per month retainer.
Councilmembers moved a step closer to a completed agreement with the county regarding sewage delivery by approving a modification to the 1995 intergovernmental contract. Both entities have expressed willingness to compromise in order to resolve local wastewater issues.
The council directed City Attorney Joel Bentley to draft paperwork allowing certain tracts of city property, deemed too small to be zoned for any type of construction, to be offered for sale to adjacent property owners.
The group approved authorization of a community service work program, which frequently is incorporated in sentencing for offenders committing less serious crimes. While voting yes, councilmember Don Greathouse stressed the need to implement the program correctly.
“I want to ensure that they’re working, and we’re not just marking hours for them being here,” Greathouse said. “When this program was started in 1988, it was a very well-run program. I want us to get back to those days.”
By Bridge Turner
Councilmembers voted unanimously last week to approve setting the city millage rate at 3.56 for 2019, reflecting no increase over the previous year’s property taxation.
The millage rate funds general operation of city government.
Council also voted unanimously to maintain the joint projects millage rate at 4.89 for endeavors shared by the city and Upson County. Holding at last year’s rate will create a $126,000 deficit, according to City Manager Russell Thompson, but joint project fund balance reserves can be used to offset the difference.
In other money matters, the council approved a low bid of $48,900 from Pippin & Associates of Gainesville for installation of various sidewalks throughout the city; and approved the execution of an agreement with the city engineer which reflects an $8,000 per month retainer.
Councilmembers moved a step closer to a completed agreement with the county regarding sewage delivery by approving a modification to the 1995 intergovernmental contract. Both entities have expressed willingness to compromise in order to resolve local wastewater issues.
The council directed City Attorney Joel Bentley to draft paperwork allowing certain tracts of city property, deemed too small to be zoned for any type of construction, to be offered for sale to adjacent property owners.
The group approved authorization of a community service work program, which frequently is incorporated in sentencing for offenders committing less serious crimes. While voting yes, councilmember Don Greathouse stressed the need to implement the program correctly.
“I want to ensure that they’re working, and we’re not just marking hours for them being here,” Greathouse said. “When this program was started in 1988, it was a very well-run program. I want us to get back to those days.”
Thomaston Mills Plays Key Role in Philly-based Company’s New Venture
Employees at the local Thomaston Mill facility.
Published 8-28-2019
By Bridge Turner
Managing Editor
Employees at Thomaston Mills are part of a new challenge for the plant’s sister company, ATD-American, which recently announced a trend change from wholesale to retail for its new line of organic cotton sheets, American Blossom.
The plant located at 900 North Hightower Street, which employs almost 100 area residents, represents the final phase of a process that begins with organic cotton grown in Texas. The cotton is spun (weaved) into rolls of fabric in North Carolina, then shipped to Georgia for cutting, sewing and packaging sheet sets in the Thomaston facility.
The name Thomaston Mills, the brands, trademarks, and local sewing operation were purchased by ATD-American in 2001, according to the company’s owner and managing partner, Janet Wischnia, and president, Robert Zaslow. But the employees were the most valuable acquisition, the duo agreed.
“When we came to Thomaston, we relied on the existing employees to help us through the process,” Wischnia and Zaslow said in in telephone interview from their Philadelphia headquarters. “They are a very knowledgeable group of people. We did this together, as a team.”
Wischnia said she plans to visit the local plant in the coming weeks.
“We’re off to a strong start. The reception has been excellent,” she said of the American Blossom line. “We hope to be successful enough to expand the operation.”
Expansion could mean more jobs and a boost to the local economy.
“We try to be good corporate citizens,” Zaslow said, noting the company’s involvement with the community. “We’ve participated in several charitable efforts, the last being relief for the tornado victims in the Talbotton area.”
The idea for American Blossom originated from Wischnia trying a heavyweight fabric that Thomaston Mills previously had manufactured for a company in Canada.
Editor’s note: The following story is reprinted from The Philadelphia Enquirer website:
By Diane Mastrull
Janet Wischnia has been working in her family’s wholesale bedding and bath linens business, ATD-American, for nearly half of its 88-year history, 10 years as its president.
About to turn 60 in August, the grandmother of three was itching for a new challenge within the company. She found it by venturing way out of ATD-American’s comfort zone, launching in January a line of U.S.-made sheets created from 100 percent organic cotton grown in West Texas for sale direct to consumers online.
That’s right, a company started the year that Al Capone was convicted of tax fraud and a dozen eggs cost 18 cents is vying for customers in today’s social-media-driven retail environment, where so-called influencers – those with big online audiences – can make or break a business with a blog post of YouTube video review.
“You can’t be afraid to change. It’s scary, but it’s also fun,” Wischnia said recently about her new “baby,” American Blossom Linens, which she’s overseeing from ATD-American’s headquarters in Wyncote. “It’s good to learn new things.”
Selling anything but wholesale is not something that ATD-American or its sister company, Thomaston Mills, has done in about 60 years – ever since Wischnia’s father, Jerome Zaslow, and his brothers Arnold and Spencer changed course for a business their parents started in 1931 as Jaffe’s Art Linens, a storefront in what was Philadelphia’s garment district.
A couple of years ago, Wischnia decided it was again time for something new. She took her cues, in part, from Donald Trump.
“With the political climate, the current president, Made in USA is more out there, people seem to think about it a little bit more than they did before,” Wischnia said. “When we saw that trend and the whole environmental trend, the trend for people wanting products made out of organic fibers, we thought we would give a try at creating a product and doing direct-to-consumer.”
In a sense, there was a feeling they had little to lose.
“Not a lot of people have gone into American textile manufacturing recently thinking it’s a great new career. We needed to get better at all of these things and change,” Tim Voit, chief marketing officer at ATD-American and Thomaston Mills, said of setting out to make “the greenest, most sustainable product out there when we saw that there was a niche in the retail market.”
American Blossom sheets are made from cotton grown in Texas and spun in North Carolina. Weaving is done in South Carolina and cutting and sewing at the Thomaston Mills plant in {Thomaston} Georgia, founded in 1899 and a part of what Wischnia said her family bought out of bankruptcy in 2001.
Thank you cards tucked into every American Blossom order describe a product that is “100 percent American – from farm to bed.” Wischnia said no other company is making organic linens in the United States, with most coming from India. Even some of ATD-American’s wholesale products are imported.
The idea for American Blossom came from Wischnia trying a heavyweight fabric – as sheets go – that Thomaston Mills had made for a company in Canada and thinking it would be even better made with organic cotton. She came across the documentary The True Cost, which explores the clothes-making industry and its global impacts, which led her to a West Texas co-op of organic farmers and the cotton now being used by American Blossom.
“It’s really fun learning new things,” Wischnia said, declining to disclose sales as a privately-held company, but acknowledging that American Blossom’s $289 queen set is “a lot more expensive” than cotton/polyester blend alternatives made overseas. She noted the set includes four pillowcases rather than the standard two, and features bigger and deeper sheets with wider-than-usual elastic.
Consumers are willing to pay more for products from companies with “ethical business practices,” said Kathryn Kellogg, the San Francisco author of 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste. She cited a “new wave of consumerism” that favors ethically sourced and made products that don’t harm the environment.
Alexandra Breines, 30, is a Brooklyn-based marketer specializing in new product launches, including American Blossom. While saying “all of Janet’s instincts are correct… people, millennials especially, we want products we can feel proud of,” Breines said the key to success for American Blossom “will be really building a community and engaging with that community.”
That’s where influencers are key, such as the Daily Connoisseur blogger Jennifer L. Scott, author of the Madame Chic book series on lifestyle pointers, who also claims 50,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel. A Scott follower for five years who has bought products she has recommended, Wischnia reached out to her, asking if she would like to try American Blossom sheets.
“I get a lot of those requests – I ignore 95 percent of them,” Scott said from her Southern California home. She, however, was charmed by Wischnia’s demonstration that she really had been a longtime reader.
She was also impressed, she said, that the bedding was organic, American made, and high quality, and that “there were faces behind the company. It’s like a family and I really like that.”
In all, ATD-American and Thomaston Mills employ 150 – 35 locally {in Pennsylvania}, the rest in Georgia and South Carolina.
To use a bedding term, Wischnia has ambitious dreams for American Blossom, a line she envisions one day expanding to include towels and blankets.
“The plan,” she said, “is to grow it big.”
By Bridge Turner
Managing Editor
Employees at Thomaston Mills are part of a new challenge for the plant’s sister company, ATD-American, which recently announced a trend change from wholesale to retail for its new line of organic cotton sheets, American Blossom.
The plant located at 900 North Hightower Street, which employs almost 100 area residents, represents the final phase of a process that begins with organic cotton grown in Texas. The cotton is spun (weaved) into rolls of fabric in North Carolina, then shipped to Georgia for cutting, sewing and packaging sheet sets in the Thomaston facility.
The name Thomaston Mills, the brands, trademarks, and local sewing operation were purchased by ATD-American in 2001, according to the company’s owner and managing partner, Janet Wischnia, and president, Robert Zaslow. But the employees were the most valuable acquisition, the duo agreed.
“When we came to Thomaston, we relied on the existing employees to help us through the process,” Wischnia and Zaslow said in in telephone interview from their Philadelphia headquarters. “They are a very knowledgeable group of people. We did this together, as a team.”
Wischnia said she plans to visit the local plant in the coming weeks.
“We’re off to a strong start. The reception has been excellent,” she said of the American Blossom line. “We hope to be successful enough to expand the operation.”
Expansion could mean more jobs and a boost to the local economy.
“We try to be good corporate citizens,” Zaslow said, noting the company’s involvement with the community. “We’ve participated in several charitable efforts, the last being relief for the tornado victims in the Talbotton area.”
The idea for American Blossom originated from Wischnia trying a heavyweight fabric that Thomaston Mills previously had manufactured for a company in Canada.
Editor’s note: The following story is reprinted from The Philadelphia Enquirer website:
By Diane Mastrull
Janet Wischnia has been working in her family’s wholesale bedding and bath linens business, ATD-American, for nearly half of its 88-year history, 10 years as its president.
About to turn 60 in August, the grandmother of three was itching for a new challenge within the company. She found it by venturing way out of ATD-American’s comfort zone, launching in January a line of U.S.-made sheets created from 100 percent organic cotton grown in West Texas for sale direct to consumers online.
That’s right, a company started the year that Al Capone was convicted of tax fraud and a dozen eggs cost 18 cents is vying for customers in today’s social-media-driven retail environment, where so-called influencers – those with big online audiences – can make or break a business with a blog post of YouTube video review.
“You can’t be afraid to change. It’s scary, but it’s also fun,” Wischnia said recently about her new “baby,” American Blossom Linens, which she’s overseeing from ATD-American’s headquarters in Wyncote. “It’s good to learn new things.”
Selling anything but wholesale is not something that ATD-American or its sister company, Thomaston Mills, has done in about 60 years – ever since Wischnia’s father, Jerome Zaslow, and his brothers Arnold and Spencer changed course for a business their parents started in 1931 as Jaffe’s Art Linens, a storefront in what was Philadelphia’s garment district.
A couple of years ago, Wischnia decided it was again time for something new. She took her cues, in part, from Donald Trump.
“With the political climate, the current president, Made in USA is more out there, people seem to think about it a little bit more than they did before,” Wischnia said. “When we saw that trend and the whole environmental trend, the trend for people wanting products made out of organic fibers, we thought we would give a try at creating a product and doing direct-to-consumer.”
In a sense, there was a feeling they had little to lose.
“Not a lot of people have gone into American textile manufacturing recently thinking it’s a great new career. We needed to get better at all of these things and change,” Tim Voit, chief marketing officer at ATD-American and Thomaston Mills, said of setting out to make “the greenest, most sustainable product out there when we saw that there was a niche in the retail market.”
American Blossom sheets are made from cotton grown in Texas and spun in North Carolina. Weaving is done in South Carolina and cutting and sewing at the Thomaston Mills plant in {Thomaston} Georgia, founded in 1899 and a part of what Wischnia said her family bought out of bankruptcy in 2001.
Thank you cards tucked into every American Blossom order describe a product that is “100 percent American – from farm to bed.” Wischnia said no other company is making organic linens in the United States, with most coming from India. Even some of ATD-American’s wholesale products are imported.
The idea for American Blossom came from Wischnia trying a heavyweight fabric – as sheets go – that Thomaston Mills had made for a company in Canada and thinking it would be even better made with organic cotton. She came across the documentary The True Cost, which explores the clothes-making industry and its global impacts, which led her to a West Texas co-op of organic farmers and the cotton now being used by American Blossom.
“It’s really fun learning new things,” Wischnia said, declining to disclose sales as a privately-held company, but acknowledging that American Blossom’s $289 queen set is “a lot more expensive” than cotton/polyester blend alternatives made overseas. She noted the set includes four pillowcases rather than the standard two, and features bigger and deeper sheets with wider-than-usual elastic.
Consumers are willing to pay more for products from companies with “ethical business practices,” said Kathryn Kellogg, the San Francisco author of 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste. She cited a “new wave of consumerism” that favors ethically sourced and made products that don’t harm the environment.
Alexandra Breines, 30, is a Brooklyn-based marketer specializing in new product launches, including American Blossom. While saying “all of Janet’s instincts are correct… people, millennials especially, we want products we can feel proud of,” Breines said the key to success for American Blossom “will be really building a community and engaging with that community.”
That’s where influencers are key, such as the Daily Connoisseur blogger Jennifer L. Scott, author of the Madame Chic book series on lifestyle pointers, who also claims 50,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel. A Scott follower for five years who has bought products she has recommended, Wischnia reached out to her, asking if she would like to try American Blossom sheets.
“I get a lot of those requests – I ignore 95 percent of them,” Scott said from her Southern California home. She, however, was charmed by Wischnia’s demonstration that she really had been a longtime reader.
She was also impressed, she said, that the bedding was organic, American made, and high quality, and that “there were faces behind the company. It’s like a family and I really like that.”
In all, ATD-American and Thomaston Mills employ 150 – 35 locally {in Pennsylvania}, the rest in Georgia and South Carolina.
To use a bedding term, Wischnia has ambitious dreams for American Blossom, a line she envisions one day expanding to include towels and blankets.
“The plan,” she said, “is to grow it big.”
Community Mourns Death of Hays Arnold
Published 8-21-2019
Former Thomaston mayor and businessman Hays L. Arnold, Jr. died at his home last Wednesday after a lengthy, hard-fought battle with cancer. He was 80.
Arnold, who spearheaded the creation of Greatest Generation Memorial Park, was elected to three consecutive terms as mayor from 2003-2015. Upon his retirement from politics, the Georgia House of Representatives established House Resolution 791 to recognize his contributions.
“The members of this body commend Hays Arnold for his commitment to improving the quality of life in the Thomaston-Upson County community,” the resolution stated, “and for demonstrating his love for his community.”
Born in Thomaston, Arnold attended R.E. Lee Institute and graduated from Florida Southern College, where he was a founding chapter member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He served in the Coast Guard Reserve, receiving an honorable discharge in 1968.
A realtor, builder and developer, and local business owner, Arnold served as president of the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce, president of the Thomaston Board of Realtors, chairman of the T-U Transportation Committee, chairman of the T-U Office Building Authority, chairman of the board for the Three Rivers Regional Commission, and district president of the Georgia Municipal Association board of directors.
In 2018, Arnold received the Boy Scouts of America Golden Eagle Award for his “exemplary leadership in politics, civics, and business, and loyalty to his scouting council.”
He leaves his wife, Anna, four children and 11 grandchildren.
A memorial service for Mr. Arnold will be held Sunday, Aug. 25 at 2 p.m. at The Gathering church, 456 Hannah’s Mill Road in Thomaston.
Former Thomaston mayor and businessman Hays L. Arnold, Jr. died at his home last Wednesday after a lengthy, hard-fought battle with cancer. He was 80.
Arnold, who spearheaded the creation of Greatest Generation Memorial Park, was elected to three consecutive terms as mayor from 2003-2015. Upon his retirement from politics, the Georgia House of Representatives established House Resolution 791 to recognize his contributions.
“The members of this body commend Hays Arnold for his commitment to improving the quality of life in the Thomaston-Upson County community,” the resolution stated, “and for demonstrating his love for his community.”
Born in Thomaston, Arnold attended R.E. Lee Institute and graduated from Florida Southern College, where he was a founding chapter member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He served in the Coast Guard Reserve, receiving an honorable discharge in 1968.
A realtor, builder and developer, and local business owner, Arnold served as president of the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce, president of the Thomaston Board of Realtors, chairman of the T-U Transportation Committee, chairman of the T-U Office Building Authority, chairman of the board for the Three Rivers Regional Commission, and district president of the Georgia Municipal Association board of directors.
In 2018, Arnold received the Boy Scouts of America Golden Eagle Award for his “exemplary leadership in politics, civics, and business, and loyalty to his scouting council.”
He leaves his wife, Anna, four children and 11 grandchildren.
A memorial service for Mr. Arnold will be held Sunday, Aug. 25 at 2 p.m. at The Gathering church, 456 Hannah’s Mill Road in Thomaston.
Moroz Graduates From F-15 Eagle Pilot Training
Published 8-14-2019
By Bridge Turner
First Lieutenant Christopher Moroz, a 2012 graduate of Upson Lee High School, graduated from F-15 Eagle Pilot training at Kingsley Air Force Base in Klamath Falls, Ore. On July 19.
A 2016 Air Force Academy graduate, Moroz started Air Force undergraduate pilot training at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Okla. Pilot training is a rigorous, two-year program that starts with an initial flight training course in Pueblo, Colo. which includes ground school and learning to fly the Diamond DA20 light airplane.
At Vance Air Force Base, comprehensive flight training begins in the T-6 Texas aircraft and progresses to flight training in the T-38 Talon supersonic jet trainer. Lt. Moroz earned his flight wings in February 2018 and was assigned to fly the F-15 Eagle.
The next phase of pilot training included a fundamentals of fighter pilot training in the T-38 Talon at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas and a pilot SERE (survival, evasion, resistance, escape) course at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Wash.
Moroz completed the 12-month F-15 Eagle flight training course and earned the Distinguished Graduate Award. His first base assignment is Kandena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Japan as a member of the 18th Fighter Wing.
By Bridge Turner
First Lieutenant Christopher Moroz, a 2012 graduate of Upson Lee High School, graduated from F-15 Eagle Pilot training at Kingsley Air Force Base in Klamath Falls, Ore. On July 19.
A 2016 Air Force Academy graduate, Moroz started Air Force undergraduate pilot training at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Okla. Pilot training is a rigorous, two-year program that starts with an initial flight training course in Pueblo, Colo. which includes ground school and learning to fly the Diamond DA20 light airplane.
At Vance Air Force Base, comprehensive flight training begins in the T-6 Texas aircraft and progresses to flight training in the T-38 Talon supersonic jet trainer. Lt. Moroz earned his flight wings in February 2018 and was assigned to fly the F-15 Eagle.
The next phase of pilot training included a fundamentals of fighter pilot training in the T-38 Talon at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas and a pilot SERE (survival, evasion, resistance, escape) course at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Wash.
Moroz completed the 12-month F-15 Eagle flight training course and earned the Distinguished Graduate Award. His first base assignment is Kandena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Japan as a member of the 18th Fighter Wing.
Who Will Pay for Highway 19 Pipe Relocation?
Published 8-14-2019
By Bridge Turner
Negotiation continues between Upson County and the Georgia Department of Transportation to determine who will pay for relocation of infrastructure currently underneath Highway 19 North, according to officials at a commission work session last week.
In a July meeting, County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners that water distribution pipes more than 50 years old are located directly beneath the north corridor, which is undergoing an extensive widening project. According to the plan GDOT has in hand, there is no allowance for the estimated $1.5 million required to move the pipes.
“GDOT said the project is the project, they have no more money for utility relocation,” said Chris Brazell, senior vice president of EMC Engineering Services, Inc. “They {GDOT} said the budget is the budget.”
Brazell’s firm has estimated the “worst-case scenario” to relocate the pipes, along with new hydrants and other necessary upgrades, would be $1.5 million. He also echoed Tinsley’s earlier concern that leaving existing pipes in place would be costly down the road.
“Not only are they {GDOT} not considering the age of the infrastructure… and things that make our system work a lot better, they’re leaving a lot of the existing pipe in the middle of the road, which is not a good idea,” Brazell said. “It’s going to become a maintenance nightmare if you have a rupture or need replacement.”
Brazell’s suggested solution involves placing approximately 1,000 feet of 8-inch pipe and 6,000 feet of 12-inch pipe in the right-of-way to avoid future destruction of the newly-paved highway. But money is not the only concern. Engineers are determining how to relocate pipes without interrupting service to between 1,200 and 1,400 customers north of McDonald’s on the system.
“The fix is not simple. This would not be hours of interruption, it would be days,” Brazell explained. “You cannot take that many people out of service for an extended amount of time with no option of backup. That’s a basic sanitation issue… there are legal implications.”
Tinsley repeated his position that the problem should have been addressed previously.
“County engineers and state engineers, none of which are part of this administration, both missed it,” he said. “I have never seen a project where they allowed the infrastructure to stay under a new state route. This was a first for me.”
Tinsley and the engineers disagreed on whether talks are causing a delay in the widening project, with Tinsley saying the county had three to four weeks to make a decision and engineers claiming impact immediately.
“I’m concerned about the rush,” Tinsley warned. “When you rush, sometimes it can be throwing good money after bad.”
“There will be a capital outlay by someone,” Brazell said. “It’s a significant investment, but it’s the only way to be sure we can control that network. Unfortunately, GDOT’s stance is they’re taking no ownership in it, and that it’s the county’s responsibility.
“Moving $1.5 million from the GDOT budget versus the Upson County budget… that’s a rounding area for those guys {GDOT},” Brazell continued. “It’s possible there have already been {multiple} $1.5 million change orders on this job. That’s just the nature of the beast in construction.”
Commissioners discussed meeting further with GDOT officials and exploring the possibility of involving state representatives in negotiations.
“So far, the level of communication has been high,” Tinsley concluded. “Hopefully it will continue to be this effort of collaboration.”
By Bridge Turner
Negotiation continues between Upson County and the Georgia Department of Transportation to determine who will pay for relocation of infrastructure currently underneath Highway 19 North, according to officials at a commission work session last week.
In a July meeting, County Manager Jason Tinsley told commissioners that water distribution pipes more than 50 years old are located directly beneath the north corridor, which is undergoing an extensive widening project. According to the plan GDOT has in hand, there is no allowance for the estimated $1.5 million required to move the pipes.
“GDOT said the project is the project, they have no more money for utility relocation,” said Chris Brazell, senior vice president of EMC Engineering Services, Inc. “They {GDOT} said the budget is the budget.”
Brazell’s firm has estimated the “worst-case scenario” to relocate the pipes, along with new hydrants and other necessary upgrades, would be $1.5 million. He also echoed Tinsley’s earlier concern that leaving existing pipes in place would be costly down the road.
“Not only are they {GDOT} not considering the age of the infrastructure… and things that make our system work a lot better, they’re leaving a lot of the existing pipe in the middle of the road, which is not a good idea,” Brazell said. “It’s going to become a maintenance nightmare if you have a rupture or need replacement.”
Brazell’s suggested solution involves placing approximately 1,000 feet of 8-inch pipe and 6,000 feet of 12-inch pipe in the right-of-way to avoid future destruction of the newly-paved highway. But money is not the only concern. Engineers are determining how to relocate pipes without interrupting service to between 1,200 and 1,400 customers north of McDonald’s on the system.
“The fix is not simple. This would not be hours of interruption, it would be days,” Brazell explained. “You cannot take that many people out of service for an extended amount of time with no option of backup. That’s a basic sanitation issue… there are legal implications.”
Tinsley repeated his position that the problem should have been addressed previously.
“County engineers and state engineers, none of which are part of this administration, both missed it,” he said. “I have never seen a project where they allowed the infrastructure to stay under a new state route. This was a first for me.”
Tinsley and the engineers disagreed on whether talks are causing a delay in the widening project, with Tinsley saying the county had three to four weeks to make a decision and engineers claiming impact immediately.
“I’m concerned about the rush,” Tinsley warned. “When you rush, sometimes it can be throwing good money after bad.”
“There will be a capital outlay by someone,” Brazell said. “It’s a significant investment, but it’s the only way to be sure we can control that network. Unfortunately, GDOT’s stance is they’re taking no ownership in it, and that it’s the county’s responsibility.
“Moving $1.5 million from the GDOT budget versus the Upson County budget… that’s a rounding area for those guys {GDOT},” Brazell continued. “It’s possible there have already been {multiple} $1.5 million change orders on this job. That’s just the nature of the beast in construction.”
Commissioners discussed meeting further with GDOT officials and exploring the possibility of involving state representatives in negotiations.
“So far, the level of communication has been high,” Tinsley concluded. “Hopefully it will continue to be this effort of collaboration.”
Roan’s Homer Helps Georgia top Florida in Little League Regional
Thomaston’s Will Roan has hit multiple home runs for the Georgia team during Little League World Series regional competition.
Published 8-7-2019
By Bridge Turner
Thomaston’s Will Roan crushed an over-the-fence solo home run in the top of the second inning Saturday in Warner Robins, sparking Georgia in a 2-1 come-from-behind victory over Florida in the Little League World Series Regionals.
Roan also homered twice and drove in four runs in a previous game against West Virginia.
Florida took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the opening frame when Jonah Peacock scored by way of a dropped third strike and wild pitch. Roan’s lead-off homer almost immediately erased the Georgia error, knotting the contest at 1-1 in the second.
The game remained tied until Georgia’s Dillon Stiltner hit into a fielder’s choice in the top of the fourth inning. Florida’s second baseman Dominic Leoni opted to get the sure out at first base, allowing Kyle Rudolph to score from third for a 2-1 Georgia lead.
Florida had a chance to tie the score in the bottom of the fourth, with Austin Marshall on third with two outs, but Brandon Reitner grounded out to end the threat. Joaquin Maldonado replaced Rudolph on the mound, and allowed only one Florida hit through the final two frames.
Rudolph, who crossed the plate for the winning run, also finished as the game’s winning pitcher with three strikeouts through four innings of work.
By Bridge Turner
Thomaston’s Will Roan crushed an over-the-fence solo home run in the top of the second inning Saturday in Warner Robins, sparking Georgia in a 2-1 come-from-behind victory over Florida in the Little League World Series Regionals.
Roan also homered twice and drove in four runs in a previous game against West Virginia.
Florida took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the opening frame when Jonah Peacock scored by way of a dropped third strike and wild pitch. Roan’s lead-off homer almost immediately erased the Georgia error, knotting the contest at 1-1 in the second.
The game remained tied until Georgia’s Dillon Stiltner hit into a fielder’s choice in the top of the fourth inning. Florida’s second baseman Dominic Leoni opted to get the sure out at first base, allowing Kyle Rudolph to score from third for a 2-1 Georgia lead.
Florida had a chance to tie the score in the bottom of the fourth, with Austin Marshall on third with two outs, but Brandon Reitner grounded out to end the threat. Joaquin Maldonado replaced Rudolph on the mound, and allowed only one Florida hit through the final two frames.
Rudolph, who crossed the plate for the winning run, also finished as the game’s winning pitcher with three strikeouts through four innings of work.
Convicted Felons Apprehended
Zachery Glenn Rampley
|
James Rodney Owenby
|
Both Members of Violent White Supremacy Gang
Published 8-7-2019
By Debbie McClain
Last Wednesday two convicted felons, both members of a violent white supremacy gang, escaped from an inmate work detail while cutting grass in Thomaston. They walked off approximately 30 minutes before the guard noticed them missing and 45 minutes before local law enforcement agencies were notified.
Zachery Glenn Rampley and James Rodney Owenby stole a City of Thomaston work truck and clothing from the City’s public works facility and made it to North Georgia before they were apprehended Thursday morning.
The work detail was cutting grass on Veterans Drive when the guard noticed the inmates missing at approximately 11:45 a.m. He reported them missing to the Georgia State Corrections Department. Then around noon, the Department of Corrections contacted the Upson County 911 Dispatch Center, dispatch then notified the Thomaston Police Department and Upson County Sherriff’s Office. TPD Chief Richardson issued a press release notifying the public of the escape at 12:15 p.m. At that time, the only information given to Chief Richardson was Rampley’s and Owenby’s GSCI identification cards with photos marking them as medium security.
During the investigation later that afternoon, the city’s public works surveillance camera revealed that the inmates actually took off at 11:15 a.m. That was also when city officials got the duo’s criminal backgrounds.
Rampley and Owenby, both reported to be 27 years old, are members of a white supremacy gang known as GhostFace Gangsters. According to reports, both have been incarcerated for serious crimes prior to serving time at the Spalding County Correctional Institution. Rampley’s rap sheet consists of aggravated assault, burglary, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of meth with intent to distribute, willful obstruction of law enforcement and several driving violations. Owenby has been convicted of burglary twice, obstruction of an officer, making threats against an officer, criminal trespass and battery.
The Daily Citizen News in Dalton reported on the escape and capture of Rampley and Owenby, along with three others who were arrested for helping them while they were in Whitfield County. Those arrested were Eddie Lee Davis Jr., 29, Rebecca Elizabeth McAllister, 27, of Chatsworth, and Thomas Milton Preavtte, 30, of Calhoun.
Calhoun.
Hundreds of residents posted concerns on the Beacon’s Facebook page as information about the inmates became available. Both Upson County and the City of Thomaston have temporarily suspended the work detail contracts with the Department of Corrections. Both press releases stated, “This suspension is intended to allow adequate time for SCCI staff to review operating procedures and security protocols to insure the program does not pose a safety risk to the community.
Upson County Board of Commissioners staff, in consultation with the Upson County Sheriff’s Department, will make a recommendation to the board as to when SCCI inmate work detail services should resume.”
Representative Ken Pullin said, “I spoke with the Department of Corrections concerning the escape of Owenby and Rampley and to review the departments’ procedures for inmates being placed on work detail. Below is a list of requirements that each inmate must pass. This is not an exhaustive list.
Both offenders, Owenby and Rampley, had tentative parole dates of June 2020 and October 2019.
- No inmate can have over 13 years remaining on their sentence
- Inmates must be on minimum or medium security
- No murder convictions
- No more than 2 violent offenses
- No sex offenders
- No mental health issues
- No escapes within the last 5 years
- No recent disciplinary actions
- No pending felony charges
Each county also performs GCIC and NCIC checks on all offenders prior to placement on any outside detail. Further consideration is given based on work performance, attitude, and program participation on prior assignments.
Both offenders were affiliated with the Ghostface Gangters gang, however neither inmate had been documented as problematic.”
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration referred to the Ghost Face Gangsters as a “violent criminal street gang largely operated from inside Georgia’s prison system.” The gang has been linked to crimes outside of the prison walls across Georgia ranging from murder to drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. The gang has been blamed for a deadly prison break where two officers were killed.
The Beacon called Joan Heath, director of public affairs with the Georgia Department of Corrections, last week for a statement, but her mailbox was full and could not accept messages.
Published 8-7-2019
By Debbie McClain
Last Wednesday two convicted felons, both members of a violent white supremacy gang, escaped from an inmate work detail while cutting grass in Thomaston. They walked off approximately 30 minutes before the guard noticed them missing and 45 minutes before local law enforcement agencies were notified.
Zachery Glenn Rampley and James Rodney Owenby stole a City of Thomaston work truck and clothing from the City’s public works facility and made it to North Georgia before they were apprehended Thursday morning.
The work detail was cutting grass on Veterans Drive when the guard noticed the inmates missing at approximately 11:45 a.m. He reported them missing to the Georgia State Corrections Department. Then around noon, the Department of Corrections contacted the Upson County 911 Dispatch Center, dispatch then notified the Thomaston Police Department and Upson County Sherriff’s Office. TPD Chief Richardson issued a press release notifying the public of the escape at 12:15 p.m. At that time, the only information given to Chief Richardson was Rampley’s and Owenby’s GSCI identification cards with photos marking them as medium security.
During the investigation later that afternoon, the city’s public works surveillance camera revealed that the inmates actually took off at 11:15 a.m. That was also when city officials got the duo’s criminal backgrounds.
Rampley and Owenby, both reported to be 27 years old, are members of a white supremacy gang known as GhostFace Gangsters. According to reports, both have been incarcerated for serious crimes prior to serving time at the Spalding County Correctional Institution. Rampley’s rap sheet consists of aggravated assault, burglary, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of meth with intent to distribute, willful obstruction of law enforcement and several driving violations. Owenby has been convicted of burglary twice, obstruction of an officer, making threats against an officer, criminal trespass and battery.
The Daily Citizen News in Dalton reported on the escape and capture of Rampley and Owenby, along with three others who were arrested for helping them while they were in Whitfield County. Those arrested were Eddie Lee Davis Jr., 29, Rebecca Elizabeth McAllister, 27, of Chatsworth, and Thomas Milton Preavtte, 30, of Calhoun.
Calhoun.
Hundreds of residents posted concerns on the Beacon’s Facebook page as information about the inmates became available. Both Upson County and the City of Thomaston have temporarily suspended the work detail contracts with the Department of Corrections. Both press releases stated, “This suspension is intended to allow adequate time for SCCI staff to review operating procedures and security protocols to insure the program does not pose a safety risk to the community.
Upson County Board of Commissioners staff, in consultation with the Upson County Sheriff’s Department, will make a recommendation to the board as to when SCCI inmate work detail services should resume.”
Representative Ken Pullin said, “I spoke with the Department of Corrections concerning the escape of Owenby and Rampley and to review the departments’ procedures for inmates being placed on work detail. Below is a list of requirements that each inmate must pass. This is not an exhaustive list.
Both offenders, Owenby and Rampley, had tentative parole dates of June 2020 and October 2019.
- No inmate can have over 13 years remaining on their sentence
- Inmates must be on minimum or medium security
- No murder convictions
- No more than 2 violent offenses
- No sex offenders
- No mental health issues
- No escapes within the last 5 years
- No recent disciplinary actions
- No pending felony charges
Each county also performs GCIC and NCIC checks on all offenders prior to placement on any outside detail. Further consideration is given based on work performance, attitude, and program participation on prior assignments.
Both offenders were affiliated with the Ghostface Gangters gang, however neither inmate had been documented as problematic.”
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration referred to the Ghost Face Gangsters as a “violent criminal street gang largely operated from inside Georgia’s prison system.” The gang has been linked to crimes outside of the prison walls across Georgia ranging from murder to drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. The gang has been blamed for a deadly prison break where two officers were killed.
The Beacon called Joan Heath, director of public affairs with the Georgia Department of Corrections, last week for a statement, but her mailbox was full and could not accept messages.
Water Pipe Relocation May Impact Highway 19 Project
Published 7-31-2019
By Bridge Turner
An infrastructure issue is threatening to derail the Highway 19 North widening project, and Upson may be forced to share fiscal responsibility for the solution, according to a report from County Manager Jason Tinsley to the board of commissioners last week.
The current design plan, already under way by the Georgia Department of Transportation, would widen and resurface the north corridor directly on top of 50-year-old water pipes under the existing highway. Leaving the outdated pipes in place would be a recipe for future headaches, Tinsley warned.
“The main sections of that distribution line, which are mid-1960s infrastructure, would mostly remain under {Highway} 19,” Tinsley told commissioners. “If we had any major water main breaks, we would have to dig up a brand new highway.”
Tinsley credited Water Superintendent Garrett Nordan for spotting the problem.
In order to move the system from underneath pavement into the right of way, sections of the water lines would have to be isolated, which means they would be out of service for an extended period. The service outage, which would affect thousands of customers, would last for a minimum of two weeks for the project to move forward as planned.
GDOT’s offices would be among those customers affected.
“Isolating the system, the way it was designed, is not possible,” Tinsley said. “GDOT certainly didn’t seem interested in cutting off 2,000 of our water customers… so they’re very concerned about it. They admitted the 2014 plans should have been vetted better. In my experience with these type projects, we weren’t allowed to leave pipes under the road.”
Engineers, contractors, GDOT officials and county staff all are working to find a solution, according to Tinsley, who reminded commissioners that portions of the highway required cutting and repair twice due to pipe ruptures during the last 18 months. “In a perfect world, we’d like to have all of our infrastructure in the right of way, not under the pavement,” he said.
To add insult to injury, the state offered to pay for the pipes to be relocated in 2014, but county officials at that time declined. The county’s portion of responsibility for the upcoming relocation has not been determined.
“They {GDOT} have a budget for this utility work, so we’re trying to understand what that budget is, and how much of it we can access to do some design changes,” Tinsley explained. “I did find contractual documents from 2012 or 2013 that specifically said we {county} are responsible for any and all engineering costs, but they are responsible for performing the work. My fear is they will argue that they are responsible for performing the work as we submitted it to them.”
Tinsley said the issue will be “top of mind moving forward,” and his goal is to have cost estimates and the county’s portion of responsibility determined by the commission’s August work session.
By Bridge Turner
An infrastructure issue is threatening to derail the Highway 19 North widening project, and Upson may be forced to share fiscal responsibility for the solution, according to a report from County Manager Jason Tinsley to the board of commissioners last week.
The current design plan, already under way by the Georgia Department of Transportation, would widen and resurface the north corridor directly on top of 50-year-old water pipes under the existing highway. Leaving the outdated pipes in place would be a recipe for future headaches, Tinsley warned.
“The main sections of that distribution line, which are mid-1960s infrastructure, would mostly remain under {Highway} 19,” Tinsley told commissioners. “If we had any major water main breaks, we would have to dig up a brand new highway.”
Tinsley credited Water Superintendent Garrett Nordan for spotting the problem.
In order to move the system from underneath pavement into the right of way, sections of the water lines would have to be isolated, which means they would be out of service for an extended period. The service outage, which would affect thousands of customers, would last for a minimum of two weeks for the project to move forward as planned.
GDOT’s offices would be among those customers affected.
“Isolating the system, the way it was designed, is not possible,” Tinsley said. “GDOT certainly didn’t seem interested in cutting off 2,000 of our water customers… so they’re very concerned about it. They admitted the 2014 plans should have been vetted better. In my experience with these type projects, we weren’t allowed to leave pipes under the road.”
Engineers, contractors, GDOT officials and county staff all are working to find a solution, according to Tinsley, who reminded commissioners that portions of the highway required cutting and repair twice due to pipe ruptures during the last 18 months. “In a perfect world, we’d like to have all of our infrastructure in the right of way, not under the pavement,” he said.
To add insult to injury, the state offered to pay for the pipes to be relocated in 2014, but county officials at that time declined. The county’s portion of responsibility for the upcoming relocation has not been determined.
“They {GDOT} have a budget for this utility work, so we’re trying to understand what that budget is, and how much of it we can access to do some design changes,” Tinsley explained. “I did find contractual documents from 2012 or 2013 that specifically said we {county} are responsible for any and all engineering costs, but they are responsible for performing the work. My fear is they will argue that they are responsible for performing the work as we submitted it to them.”
Tinsley said the issue will be “top of mind moving forward,” and his goal is to have cost estimates and the county’s portion of responsibility determined by the commission’s August work session.
Mario Rios Arrested for Cruelty to Animals
The horse one day prior to its death.
Published 7-24-2019
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Mario Duran Rios, who was recently arrested for animal cruelty and is in the featured news item below, is not related to, nor is he in connection with the HUMBERTO RIOS family of Upson County.
Mario Duran Rios, 42, of Forest Park was arrested Monday and charged with one count of cruelty to animals in connection with the death of a horse in southwest Upson County, according to reports from the sheriff’s office.
Deputies initially responded to complaints about a horse living in poor conditions at property owned by Rios at 167 Burkett Road on June 21. The Georgia Department of Agriculture was contacted, and was scheduled to respond to the address the following Monday, June 24.
The horse was fed and watered by deputies and volunteers prior to deputies leaving the scene, according to the report.
Despite the efforts of area residents and the local humane society, the horse was found dead when deputies were again called to the residence Saturday, June 22.
During the initial investigation, information was provided to law enforcement that the horse was under veterinary care, and that nothing could be done to improve the animal’s health, according to Sheriff Dan Kilgore. The subsequent investigation determined otherwise. Based on the overall condition of the horse and the premises, probable cause was established to arrest Rios for animal cruelty.
Rios was arrested and processed at the Upson County Jail, and currently has a “condition” bond that prohibits him from possessing any animals until the completion of the case.
In the State of Georgia, animal cruelty- neglect is a misdemeanor.
The case drew community attention following complaints by area residents, outrage on social media, and public comments by a Burkett Road resident at an Upson County Commission meeting earlier this month.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Mario Duran Rios, who was recently arrested for animal cruelty and is in the featured news item below, is not related to, nor is he in connection with the HUMBERTO RIOS family of Upson County.
Mario Duran Rios, 42, of Forest Park was arrested Monday and charged with one count of cruelty to animals in connection with the death of a horse in southwest Upson County, according to reports from the sheriff’s office.
Deputies initially responded to complaints about a horse living in poor conditions at property owned by Rios at 167 Burkett Road on June 21. The Georgia Department of Agriculture was contacted, and was scheduled to respond to the address the following Monday, June 24.
The horse was fed and watered by deputies and volunteers prior to deputies leaving the scene, according to the report.
Despite the efforts of area residents and the local humane society, the horse was found dead when deputies were again called to the residence Saturday, June 22.
During the initial investigation, information was provided to law enforcement that the horse was under veterinary care, and that nothing could be done to improve the animal’s health, according to Sheriff Dan Kilgore. The subsequent investigation determined otherwise. Based on the overall condition of the horse and the premises, probable cause was established to arrest Rios for animal cruelty.
Rios was arrested and processed at the Upson County Jail, and currently has a “condition” bond that prohibits him from possessing any animals until the completion of the case.
In the State of Georgia, animal cruelty- neglect is a misdemeanor.
The case drew community attention following complaints by area residents, outrage on social media, and public comments by a Burkett Road resident at an Upson County Commission meeting earlier this month.
City Officials Suggest Future Millage & Electric Rate Increases
Published 7-24-2019
By Bridge Turner
A tax hike and utility rate increase may be on the horizon for city residents, according to discussions at the Thomaston City Council meeting last week.
City Manager Russell Thompson prepared Mayor J.D. Stallings and council members that his recommendations for the 2020 budget will likely include a one mill increase in property taxes and an increase in electrical utility rates.
“You can’t continue to provide services at a high level without adjustment to the tax digest,” Thompson said. “This happens one of two ways: Experience growth through increasing your tax base, which means more buildings and more taxpayers to share the burden; or the millage rate has to increase.”
The millage rate increase is needed to finance the debt service on a bond necessary to construct a new fire department, according to Thompson. And the electric rate increase is tied to a long-term agreement by the city to participate in Plant Vogtle phases three and four.
The last millage rate increase came approximately 14 years ago, according to council members, but city residents have seen a water and sewage rate increase and a “re-balancing” of electrical rates within the past three years. The electric adjustment eliminated “summer rates,” which relieved cost for commercial users at the expense of residential users.
“If you track back to the 90s, our electric rates have not kept up with inflation,” Thompson said.
The utility increase would be the first in a series which will last for multiple years, allowing the city to fulfill an obligation to participate in funding the nuclear plant. By gradually increasing rates over a period of years, the city will avoid a much larger increase when the debt becomes due, according to Thompson.
“What we have to do is communicate this well and let the public have a chance to come in, hear about it and ask questions, and understand that this isn’t just an arbitrary increase,” Councilman Ryan Tucker said. “These are obligations pertaining to Plant Vogtle, and it’s what has to be done.”
However, Tucker asked if there was a point at which the city could have opted out of the agreement. Thompson said the final commitment was made years ago, under different circumstances.
“This was before we realized we were sitting on a sea of natural gas,” Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head said.
“Now we have a lot of excess capacity for Thomaston,” Finance Director Lonnie Joyce added. “They said {phases} one and two are going off line, so you’re going to be stuck with some hydro, a little natural gas, and a coal plant. You won’t have any nuclear. So they had to get in on {phases} three and four because you’ve got to have nuclear.”
The one-mill tax increase would fund construction of a new fire department, proposed to be built on city-owned property now home to the local pardons and parole board office. Meetings are being scheduled between the project architect and Georgia Department of Transportation officials to discuss traffic studies and the possibility of installing a safety signal at the site.
By Bridge Turner
A tax hike and utility rate increase may be on the horizon for city residents, according to discussions at the Thomaston City Council meeting last week.
City Manager Russell Thompson prepared Mayor J.D. Stallings and council members that his recommendations for the 2020 budget will likely include a one mill increase in property taxes and an increase in electrical utility rates.
“You can’t continue to provide services at a high level without adjustment to the tax digest,” Thompson said. “This happens one of two ways: Experience growth through increasing your tax base, which means more buildings and more taxpayers to share the burden; or the millage rate has to increase.”
The millage rate increase is needed to finance the debt service on a bond necessary to construct a new fire department, according to Thompson. And the electric rate increase is tied to a long-term agreement by the city to participate in Plant Vogtle phases three and four.
The last millage rate increase came approximately 14 years ago, according to council members, but city residents have seen a water and sewage rate increase and a “re-balancing” of electrical rates within the past three years. The electric adjustment eliminated “summer rates,” which relieved cost for commercial users at the expense of residential users.
“If you track back to the 90s, our electric rates have not kept up with inflation,” Thompson said.
The utility increase would be the first in a series which will last for multiple years, allowing the city to fulfill an obligation to participate in funding the nuclear plant. By gradually increasing rates over a period of years, the city will avoid a much larger increase when the debt becomes due, according to Thompson.
“What we have to do is communicate this well and let the public have a chance to come in, hear about it and ask questions, and understand that this isn’t just an arbitrary increase,” Councilman Ryan Tucker said. “These are obligations pertaining to Plant Vogtle, and it’s what has to be done.”
However, Tucker asked if there was a point at which the city could have opted out of the agreement. Thompson said the final commitment was made years ago, under different circumstances.
“This was before we realized we were sitting on a sea of natural gas,” Mayor Pro-tem Doug Head said.
“Now we have a lot of excess capacity for Thomaston,” Finance Director Lonnie Joyce added. “They said {phases} one and two are going off line, so you’re going to be stuck with some hydro, a little natural gas, and a coal plant. You won’t have any nuclear. So they had to get in on {phases} three and four because you’ve got to have nuclear.”
The one-mill tax increase would fund construction of a new fire department, proposed to be built on city-owned property now home to the local pardons and parole board office. Meetings are being scheduled between the project architect and Georgia Department of Transportation officials to discuss traffic studies and the possibility of installing a safety signal at the site.
TPD Chief Attends Police Leadership Training in Israel
Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson, above center, was one of 21 senior law enforcement officials from Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina to participate in a training program in Israel. Below, Richardson is shown examples of gear worn by Israeli National Police.
Published 7-17-2019
Thomaston Police Department Chief Mike Richardson recently attended an intensive two week public safety leadership training course with Israel’s top police executives.
He trained with 12 Georgia police chiefs and command staff, two sheriffs, a Georgia Bureau of Investigation inspector, and executives from the Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Command College, and Stone Mountain Department of Public Safety.
Richardson was in a 21-member delegation of senior law enforcement officials from Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina participating in the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange’s 27th annual peer-to-peer training program in partnership with the Israeli National Police. While there, the delegates were shown best practices and the latest technologies in policing and public safety.
More than 770 public safety officials, most from Georgia, have participated in the program in Israel to include Sheriff Dan Kilgore, who attended the program in 2015. Richardson’s trip was funded through a GILEE grant at no cost to the city.
“Our GILEE delegates return with new ways of developing, collaborating on and using strategies to minimize the production of crime and terrorism,” said GILEE Executive Director Steve Heaton. “In GILEE’s 27 years, many of these graduates have gone on to serve in key leadership roles in Georgia and beyond.”
GILEE is a research unit within Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. It enhances public safety by nurturing existing and new partnerships within and across public agencies and the private sector. It has received multiple awards and honors, including the Special Service Award from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and the Georgia Governor’s Public Safety Award.
“There are no other opportunities I know of that expose American law enforcement officers to the daily realities and challenges of Israeli law enforcement,” Richardson said. “The training, experiences and friendships made will be invaluable to my professional development and career with the TPD.”
Chief Richardson further stated that he would highly encourage all senior public safety officials to participate and support the GILEE program. “It’s a training experience like no other,” he said.
To learn more about the program, visit gilee.gsu.edu.
Thomaston Police Department Chief Mike Richardson recently attended an intensive two week public safety leadership training course with Israel’s top police executives.
He trained with 12 Georgia police chiefs and command staff, two sheriffs, a Georgia Bureau of Investigation inspector, and executives from the Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Command College, and Stone Mountain Department of Public Safety.
Richardson was in a 21-member delegation of senior law enforcement officials from Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina participating in the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange’s 27th annual peer-to-peer training program in partnership with the Israeli National Police. While there, the delegates were shown best practices and the latest technologies in policing and public safety.
More than 770 public safety officials, most from Georgia, have participated in the program in Israel to include Sheriff Dan Kilgore, who attended the program in 2015. Richardson’s trip was funded through a GILEE grant at no cost to the city.
“Our GILEE delegates return with new ways of developing, collaborating on and using strategies to minimize the production of crime and terrorism,” said GILEE Executive Director Steve Heaton. “In GILEE’s 27 years, many of these graduates have gone on to serve in key leadership roles in Georgia and beyond.”
GILEE is a research unit within Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. It enhances public safety by nurturing existing and new partnerships within and across public agencies and the private sector. It has received multiple awards and honors, including the Special Service Award from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and the Georgia Governor’s Public Safety Award.
“There are no other opportunities I know of that expose American law enforcement officers to the daily realities and challenges of Israeli law enforcement,” Richardson said. “The training, experiences and friendships made will be invaluable to my professional development and career with the TPD.”
Chief Richardson further stated that he would highly encourage all senior public safety officials to participate and support the GILEE program. “It’s a training experience like no other,” he said.
To learn more about the program, visit gilee.gsu.edu.
Gun, Money and Meth Found at Local Restaurant
China Town Express on Highway 19
Published 7-17-2019
A search warrant executed July 3 at China Town Express, 1524 Highway 19 North in Thomaston, resulted in two arrests and multiple charges, according to an Upson County Sheriff’s Office report.
Ting Wei Zheng, owner of China Town Express, was charged with gambling and possession of a sawed-off shotgun; and Debra Lynn Bradshaw, employee of the restaurant, was charged with gambling and possession of methamphetamine. In addition, a freeze was placed on Zheng’s bank account.
The search warrant stemmed from an ongoing investigation into activities at the restaurant, in which cash payouts were received on coin operated amusement machines from both Zheng and Bradshaw, according to the report. The investigation, conducted between April and July, led to a search of both the restaurant and residence at the same location.
According to Sgt. Mario Cromer, agroup of local law enforcement personnel including Sgt. Heath Eppinger, Capt. Toby Hardeman, Sgt. Todd Murphy, and Sheriff Dan Kilgore served warrants simultaneously at the business and residence. Cromer’s account of the incident is as follows:
“Upon searching the residence, I located a Kleenex box and a cell phone box that contained an undisclosed amount of currency. Zheng’s license was also located inside the Kleenex box. I located a plastic container {with} a large amount of coins inside Zheng’s bedroom. While searching Zheng’s closet, I located several stacks of $1 bills, a gray jacket in his closet that contained several stacks of $100 bills, and I also retrieved a sawed-off shotgun from the closet. I also located several vouchers from the COAMs on Zheng’s dresser.”
Cromer’s report continued, “While searching the second bedroom, Capt. Hardeman located a plastic bag that contained several loaded syringes and a baggie that contained suspected methamphetamine residue. A plastic bag that contained coins, and a grinder that contained marijuana residue was also retrieved from the second bedroom. I determined that the second bedroom belonged to Bradshaw, due to a picture and a purse {located in the room}.”
Other recent arrests include: Jamal Franco Barron, 39, of 64 Gray Road in Woodbury, possession of methamphetamine and possession of cocaine; Holly King Hunt, 38, of 1380 Barnesville Highway in Thomaston, illegal possession of a controlled substance, MDMA (ecstasy); Taylor Nicole Cogburn, 27, of 1380 Barnesville Highway in Thomaston, illegal possession of a controlled substance, MDMA; Christopher Dawson Hilley, 20, of 3489 Highway 19 South in Thomaston, illegal possession of a controlled substance, MDMA; Christopher Alan Fuller, 28, of 118 Rualmaine Circle in Thomaston, possession of meth; Tina Louise Paschal, 41, of 410 Joshua Street in Thomaston, possession of meth; Terry Oneal Wyche, 41, of 509 Cobbtown Road in Thomaston, possession of meth; Javan Billtavis Raines, 21, of 42 Jackson Street in Yatesville, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
A search warrant executed July 3 at China Town Express, 1524 Highway 19 North in Thomaston, resulted in two arrests and multiple charges, according to an Upson County Sheriff’s Office report.
Ting Wei Zheng, owner of China Town Express, was charged with gambling and possession of a sawed-off shotgun; and Debra Lynn Bradshaw, employee of the restaurant, was charged with gambling and possession of methamphetamine. In addition, a freeze was placed on Zheng’s bank account.
The search warrant stemmed from an ongoing investigation into activities at the restaurant, in which cash payouts were received on coin operated amusement machines from both Zheng and Bradshaw, according to the report. The investigation, conducted between April and July, led to a search of both the restaurant and residence at the same location.
According to Sgt. Mario Cromer, agroup of local law enforcement personnel including Sgt. Heath Eppinger, Capt. Toby Hardeman, Sgt. Todd Murphy, and Sheriff Dan Kilgore served warrants simultaneously at the business and residence. Cromer’s account of the incident is as follows:
“Upon searching the residence, I located a Kleenex box and a cell phone box that contained an undisclosed amount of currency. Zheng’s license was also located inside the Kleenex box. I located a plastic container {with} a large amount of coins inside Zheng’s bedroom. While searching Zheng’s closet, I located several stacks of $1 bills, a gray jacket in his closet that contained several stacks of $100 bills, and I also retrieved a sawed-off shotgun from the closet. I also located several vouchers from the COAMs on Zheng’s dresser.”
Cromer’s report continued, “While searching the second bedroom, Capt. Hardeman located a plastic bag that contained several loaded syringes and a baggie that contained suspected methamphetamine residue. A plastic bag that contained coins, and a grinder that contained marijuana residue was also retrieved from the second bedroom. I determined that the second bedroom belonged to Bradshaw, due to a picture and a purse {located in the room}.”
Other recent arrests include: Jamal Franco Barron, 39, of 64 Gray Road in Woodbury, possession of methamphetamine and possession of cocaine; Holly King Hunt, 38, of 1380 Barnesville Highway in Thomaston, illegal possession of a controlled substance, MDMA (ecstasy); Taylor Nicole Cogburn, 27, of 1380 Barnesville Highway in Thomaston, illegal possession of a controlled substance, MDMA; Christopher Dawson Hilley, 20, of 3489 Highway 19 South in Thomaston, illegal possession of a controlled substance, MDMA; Christopher Alan Fuller, 28, of 118 Rualmaine Circle in Thomaston, possession of meth; Tina Louise Paschal, 41, of 410 Joshua Street in Thomaston, possession of meth; Terry Oneal Wyche, 41, of 509 Cobbtown Road in Thomaston, possession of meth; Javan Billtavis Raines, 21, of 42 Jackson Street in Yatesville, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Flint Fest 2019 Set For July 27
Published 7-10-2019
Flint Fest 2019, a day of live musical entertainment and a 2.5-mile river trek, will be held Saturday, July 27 at the Camp Thunder Pavilion in Molena.
Check-in for the 10 a.m. float will begin at 9 a.m. at Camp Thunder’s canoe base, located at 1166 Dripping Rock Road. For a $10 per craft fee, a shuttle will drop participants at Highway 18 Bridge, and the float ends at the Lawhorn Scouting Base. Tubes, kayaks and canoes will be available to rent, ranging in price from $25 to $40.
General admission to the festival is $10 “early bird” or $15 at the event, which includes food trucks, lawn games, and an evening of live music. DJ Tronic starts at 11 a.m., followed by Mark Adams at 2:30 p.m., Andy Johnson at 3:30, Heart of Pine at 4:30, Kaleb King at 6 p.m., and Logan Winkles at 7:30 p.m.
Tent and cabin rentals are available for the weekend.
For additional information, and to reserve tickets or tent and cabin rentals, visit the Flint Fest Facebook page, and click on the “Eventbrite” link before July 15.
Flint Fest 2019, a Pike County Chamber of Commerce event, is sponsored by TenCate Protective Fabrics and Moddy-Daniel Funeral Home.
Flint Fest 2019, a day of live musical entertainment and a 2.5-mile river trek, will be held Saturday, July 27 at the Camp Thunder Pavilion in Molena.
Check-in for the 10 a.m. float will begin at 9 a.m. at Camp Thunder’s canoe base, located at 1166 Dripping Rock Road. For a $10 per craft fee, a shuttle will drop participants at Highway 18 Bridge, and the float ends at the Lawhorn Scouting Base. Tubes, kayaks and canoes will be available to rent, ranging in price from $25 to $40.
General admission to the festival is $10 “early bird” or $15 at the event, which includes food trucks, lawn games, and an evening of live music. DJ Tronic starts at 11 a.m., followed by Mark Adams at 2:30 p.m., Andy Johnson at 3:30, Heart of Pine at 4:30, Kaleb King at 6 p.m., and Logan Winkles at 7:30 p.m.
Tent and cabin rentals are available for the weekend.
For additional information, and to reserve tickets or tent and cabin rentals, visit the Flint Fest Facebook page, and click on the “Eventbrite” link before July 15.
Flint Fest 2019, a Pike County Chamber of Commerce event, is sponsored by TenCate Protective Fabrics and Moddy-Daniel Funeral Home.
Puttin’ (A New Front) On The Ritz
The Ritz Theatre, prior to renovation.
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The Ritz’s renovated facade with proposed marquee.
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Published 7-10-2019
By Debbie McClain
For the second time in 81 years, the Ritz Theatre, built in 1927, has made headlines for remodeling the front of the historic building that sits on the square in downtown Thomaston.
The Ritz’s tiled art deco-style front has been a downtown staple since 1938, but is now a thing of the past. The red, black and golden tiles above the marquee have been covered in gray and terra cotta colored stucco. Ritz owners Malcolm and Amy Neal have future plans to clean and paint around the windows on the bottom half of the building, and there are some changes planned for the marquee as well.
According to the Neals and city code enforcement officer Bobby Ellington, the remodel was necessary because of water damage and safety issues.
The City of Thomaston’s Historic Preservation Commission met at the end of June, for the first time in years, to discuss the Ritz Theatre’s new façade and plans moving forward.
During the meeting, Neal said he could not find a local contractor who could restore the tile work and that replacing the damaged tiles at approximately $10 each made the option cost prohibitive. He reported to the commission that there was severe water damage behind the tiles and they could not afford to do a restoration, so remodeling was the only option.
Beginning in 2005, the Neals sent multiple letters to Thomaston’s then city manager Patrick Comiskey requesting a tree be removed from the front of the building, claiming the tree was causing damage and blocking the marquee. Comiskey agreed to remove the tree in 2008 after the Neals submitted copies of signed contracts, approved building permits and proof that there was sufficient money to complete the project.
In September and October of last year, the Neals sent the request to current City Manager Russell Thompson asking council members to honor Comiskey’s 2008 commitment to remove the tree, again stating the tree blocked the marquee and caused damage to the windows and front of the building. In October 2018 Thompson presented the letter to council members along with plans to remodel the Ritz, and explained that the project would only move forward if the tree was removed. The council voted to honor Comiskey’s 2008 commitment and approve the project.
The Neals submitted the necessary paperwork, permits were issued, and the first phase has been completed.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done on the Ritz,” Neal said. “The plan for the marquee will have the show times on the sides and the Ritz name will be on the front. We will keep the tile work on the bottom half of the building and make some repairs.”
Thompson asked Neal if he would be interested in restoring the tile work if the city could arrange for a historic grant, and Neal said he would consider it if funds were available. Thompson also requested that Heather Blackmon, Thomaston’s Main Street coordinator, gather information to re-establish the Historic Preservation Commission and seek nominations for available seats.
All work on the Ritz, including the marquee, and work on any other historic building in the city will require approval by code enforcement and the commission before requests are presented to the city council for a final decision.
By Debbie McClain
For the second time in 81 years, the Ritz Theatre, built in 1927, has made headlines for remodeling the front of the historic building that sits on the square in downtown Thomaston.
The Ritz’s tiled art deco-style front has been a downtown staple since 1938, but is now a thing of the past. The red, black and golden tiles above the marquee have been covered in gray and terra cotta colored stucco. Ritz owners Malcolm and Amy Neal have future plans to clean and paint around the windows on the bottom half of the building, and there are some changes planned for the marquee as well.
According to the Neals and city code enforcement officer Bobby Ellington, the remodel was necessary because of water damage and safety issues.
The City of Thomaston’s Historic Preservation Commission met at the end of June, for the first time in years, to discuss the Ritz Theatre’s new façade and plans moving forward.
During the meeting, Neal said he could not find a local contractor who could restore the tile work and that replacing the damaged tiles at approximately $10 each made the option cost prohibitive. He reported to the commission that there was severe water damage behind the tiles and they could not afford to do a restoration, so remodeling was the only option.
Beginning in 2005, the Neals sent multiple letters to Thomaston’s then city manager Patrick Comiskey requesting a tree be removed from the front of the building, claiming the tree was causing damage and blocking the marquee. Comiskey agreed to remove the tree in 2008 after the Neals submitted copies of signed contracts, approved building permits and proof that there was sufficient money to complete the project.
In September and October of last year, the Neals sent the request to current City Manager Russell Thompson asking council members to honor Comiskey’s 2008 commitment to remove the tree, again stating the tree blocked the marquee and caused damage to the windows and front of the building. In October 2018 Thompson presented the letter to council members along with plans to remodel the Ritz, and explained that the project would only move forward if the tree was removed. The council voted to honor Comiskey’s 2008 commitment and approve the project.
The Neals submitted the necessary paperwork, permits were issued, and the first phase has been completed.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done on the Ritz,” Neal said. “The plan for the marquee will have the show times on the sides and the Ritz name will be on the front. We will keep the tile work on the bottom half of the building and make some repairs.”
Thompson asked Neal if he would be interested in restoring the tile work if the city could arrange for a historic grant, and Neal said he would consider it if funds were available. Thompson also requested that Heather Blackmon, Thomaston’s Main Street coordinator, gather information to re-establish the Historic Preservation Commission and seek nominations for available seats.
All work on the Ritz, including the marquee, and work on any other historic building in the city will require approval by code enforcement and the commission before requests are presented to the city council for a final decision.
dogs just wanna have fun
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Paddle 4 Paws Held Last Weekend
Published 7-3-2019
The annual Paddle 4 Paws Benefit was held Saturday, with participants meeting at Sprewell Bluff on June 29 to float the Flint River in support of the Upson Humane Society. In addition, food vendors Repicci’s Concessions and H&H BBQ were present. See more pictures in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
Published 7-3-2019
The annual Paddle 4 Paws Benefit was held Saturday, with participants meeting at Sprewell Bluff on June 29 to float the Flint River in support of the Upson Humane Society. In addition, food vendors Repicci’s Concessions and H&H BBQ were present. See more pictures in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
8% Sales Tax Now in Effect for Upson County
Published 7-3-2019
As of Monday, July 1, Upson County businesses have begun collecting an additional penny on every dollar of consumer spending to help fund local transportation projects.
Upson County voters approved the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax on March 19. The sales tax rate hike from seven to eight percent for most goods and services will be allotted as follows:
•4% Georgia sales tax (increased from three percent to four percent on April 1, 1989)
•1% LOST (local option sales tax)
•1% SPLOST (special purpose local option sales tax)
•1% ELOST (education local option sales tax)
•1% TSPLOST (transportation special purpose local option sales tax – collected from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2024)
The county will begin receiving collected funds in late summer, and plans to start the first TSPLOST-funded projects in fall. For more information, visit https://dor.georgia.gov/documents/sales-tax-upcoming-quarterly-rate-changes.
As of Monday, July 1, Upson County businesses have begun collecting an additional penny on every dollar of consumer spending to help fund local transportation projects.
Upson County voters approved the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax on March 19. The sales tax rate hike from seven to eight percent for most goods and services will be allotted as follows:
•4% Georgia sales tax (increased from three percent to four percent on April 1, 1989)
•1% LOST (local option sales tax)
•1% SPLOST (special purpose local option sales tax)
•1% ELOST (education local option sales tax)
•1% TSPLOST (transportation special purpose local option sales tax – collected from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2024)
The county will begin receiving collected funds in late summer, and plans to start the first TSPLOST-funded projects in fall. For more information, visit https://dor.georgia.gov/documents/sales-tax-upcoming-quarterly-rate-changes.
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Your Business
So Does the Right Advertising!
Take My Card
Business Card and Resource Directory
Is Effective and Inexpensive
Creating customer awareness is key to nurturing your business's success. We offer reliable distribution to more than 3,000 households in our area through The Upson Beacon, an advertising vehicle that delivers results. Put our reach and reputation to work for your business with strategic advertising in the Take My Card Business and Resource Directory.
Display your professional services and products with your business card in this full color slick magazine style directory that will also help build your brand and bring more customers to your door.
The easy to use table of contents will point your customer in the right direction and as a bonus, the directory will be on the Upson Beacon website and Facebook page with live links to your website. You will be able to place the directory on your website too if you wish...
Business card size
Full color Just $100 for the entire year! Call Bridge Turner at the Upson Beacon 706-646-2382 or 706-656-1214
