Lifestyles.
Miller named a GC Class of 2021 Valedictorian
Natalie Miller
Published 5-13-2021
Natalie Miller of Thomaston has been named one of 15 valedictorians for the May/August graduating class of 2021 at Georgia College in Milledgeville.
Being named valedictorian is “a feat that can only be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and perseverance,” according to a statement from the college.
Valedictorians have a perfect 4.0 grade point average throughout their undergraduate careers. Miller majored in English and is the daughter of Superior Court Judge Benjamin Miller, Jr. and Amanda Miller.
Miller was also valedictorian for the Upson-Lee High Class of 2017.
Natalie Miller of Thomaston has been named one of 15 valedictorians for the May/August graduating class of 2021 at Georgia College in Milledgeville.
Being named valedictorian is “a feat that can only be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and perseverance,” according to a statement from the college.
Valedictorians have a perfect 4.0 grade point average throughout their undergraduate careers. Miller majored in English and is the daughter of Superior Court Judge Benjamin Miller, Jr. and Amanda Miller.
Miller was also valedictorian for the Upson-Lee High Class of 2017.
Emancipation Program to Be Held May 29
2019 Emancipation Celebration Parade
Published 5-13-2021
The Emancipation Committee of Upson County will host an emancipation program at noon Wednesday, May 29 at the Lincoln Park playground, “The Bottom.” Speaker will be Rev. McArthur Childs.
Due to COVID-19 recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control, there will be no parade this year. Masks will be required and social distancing is requested. For more information, please contact Brenda Hobbs on Facebook or one of the Emancipation Celebration committee members.
The Emancipation Celebration in Upson County is the longest continuously running celebration in the United States. Last year’s event was cancelled because of the pandemic, but did not change the status of the event held locally.
The Emancipation Committee of Upson County will host an emancipation program at noon Wednesday, May 29 at the Lincoln Park playground, “The Bottom.” Speaker will be Rev. McArthur Childs.
Due to COVID-19 recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control, there will be no parade this year. Masks will be required and social distancing is requested. For more information, please contact Brenda Hobbs on Facebook or one of the Emancipation Celebration committee members.
The Emancipation Celebration in Upson County is the longest continuously running celebration in the United States. Last year’s event was cancelled because of the pandemic, but did not change the status of the event held locally.
Armstrong School of Dance Presents
The Wonders of Walt Disney
Published 5-6-2021
Photos by Luke Haney... See additional images soon.
Armstrong School of Dance held its Spring Recital Series last weekend, themed “The Wonders of Walt Disney.” The four recitals consisted of dances choreographed to songs from Disney movies and similar productions in the Disney Family.
Photos by Luke Haney... See additional images soon.
Armstrong School of Dance held its Spring Recital Series last weekend, themed “The Wonders of Walt Disney.” The four recitals consisted of dances choreographed to songs from Disney movies and similar productions in the Disney Family.
City Announces Summer Activities for All Age Groups
Published 5-6-2021
The City of Thomaston has announced the opening of a “kids’ interactive fountain” and senior fishing at Greatest Generation Memorial Park, along with “Thomaston Night” at Truist Park in Atlanta for the Braves’ game versus the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The interactive fountain opened May 1 with hours of operation Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 2-7 p.m. through Sept. 6. City officials remind, “If the fountain is not running during normal operating hours, press the red button in the fountain area near the parking lot side to start the water flow.”
Senior fishing starts Monday, May 10 from 5-9 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, weather permitting, at the GGM Park pond across from Ingles. Senior fishing will be available through Thursday, Oct. 28.
Pond rules are as follows: must be 50 years or older or disabled; may be accompanied by one child age 10 or younger; limit of five fish per day per fisherman or group; limit two poles per fisherman or group; park in the designated parking lot; must clean your area before leaving; no tobacco products or alcohol; no profanity will be tolerated.
City officials ask that all participants utilizing the fountain or fishing pond follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19.
Braves’ Thomaston Night starts at 4:10 p.m. Saturday, May 22 at Truist Park. Tickets ($10) may be purchased at the city manager’s office, second floor of the government complex, located at 106 East Lee Street in Thomaston.
For more information about any city-sponsored events, please phone 706-647-4242, extension 4.
The City of Thomaston has announced the opening of a “kids’ interactive fountain” and senior fishing at Greatest Generation Memorial Park, along with “Thomaston Night” at Truist Park in Atlanta for the Braves’ game versus the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The interactive fountain opened May 1 with hours of operation Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 2-7 p.m. through Sept. 6. City officials remind, “If the fountain is not running during normal operating hours, press the red button in the fountain area near the parking lot side to start the water flow.”
Senior fishing starts Monday, May 10 from 5-9 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, weather permitting, at the GGM Park pond across from Ingles. Senior fishing will be available through Thursday, Oct. 28.
Pond rules are as follows: must be 50 years or older or disabled; may be accompanied by one child age 10 or younger; limit of five fish per day per fisherman or group; limit two poles per fisherman or group; park in the designated parking lot; must clean your area before leaving; no tobacco products or alcohol; no profanity will be tolerated.
City officials ask that all participants utilizing the fountain or fishing pond follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19.
Braves’ Thomaston Night starts at 4:10 p.m. Saturday, May 22 at Truist Park. Tickets ($10) may be purchased at the city manager’s office, second floor of the government complex, located at 106 East Lee Street in Thomaston.
For more information about any city-sponsored events, please phone 706-647-4242, extension 4.
Community Mourns Loss of Bobby Booker
Published 4-29-2021
Memorial services were held Tuesday for Robert “Bobby” Howard Booker, who died Sunday at age 58 after devoting most of his life to public service in Upson County.
Booker worked for 30 years with various local fire departments, predominantly Northside Fire Department, and was rescue chief for Upson Emergency Management Agency for four years. His vast knowledge of Flint River earned him “go-to” status with local officials as a resource for river operations.
“He has been on countless rescue and recovery operations,” Joey Thiel said. “His knowledge of the river is unmatched, and he is the only person I know to receive two separate Awards of Valor from the Georgia EMA for rescuing people from the flint when it flooded.”
Upson EMA Director Martha Ann McCarty said Booker “was one of a kind.”
“If ever there was a ‘prepper,’ Bobby was one,” McCarty said. “He taught so many of us how to prepare for being outdoors for an extended period of time, how to pack life-saving items into such small containers. I never would have thought that he could have all that he did in an old Prince Albert tin. He never went anywhere without a ‘bug-out bag’ of some kind.”
McCarty said her first encounter with Booker was through Red Cross when the two transported more than 2,000 blankets from Atlanta to Thomaston and surrounding areas. On that trip, McCarty learned what Booker was willing to do for his community, she said.
“He was a man of faith… he truly loved the Lord and served him in so many ways, often known only to him,” McCarty said. “He didn’t toot his own horn, he just did what he did for whoever needed something at the time he encountered them. And that made him the Bobby that everyone knew.”
Bobby involved his wife Teresa and his children in EMA rescue, according to McCarty. Teresa serves as an administrative assistant, and his sons have helped with searches on the Flint more than once.
“Bobby will be missed, not only by his wife and family, but by this entire community,” McCarty said, referring to him fondly as “an avid river rat. He made the word ‘service’ his motto for living.”
Memorial services were held Tuesday for Robert “Bobby” Howard Booker, who died Sunday at age 58 after devoting most of his life to public service in Upson County.
Booker worked for 30 years with various local fire departments, predominantly Northside Fire Department, and was rescue chief for Upson Emergency Management Agency for four years. His vast knowledge of Flint River earned him “go-to” status with local officials as a resource for river operations.
“He has been on countless rescue and recovery operations,” Joey Thiel said. “His knowledge of the river is unmatched, and he is the only person I know to receive two separate Awards of Valor from the Georgia EMA for rescuing people from the flint when it flooded.”
Upson EMA Director Martha Ann McCarty said Booker “was one of a kind.”
“If ever there was a ‘prepper,’ Bobby was one,” McCarty said. “He taught so many of us how to prepare for being outdoors for an extended period of time, how to pack life-saving items into such small containers. I never would have thought that he could have all that he did in an old Prince Albert tin. He never went anywhere without a ‘bug-out bag’ of some kind.”
McCarty said her first encounter with Booker was through Red Cross when the two transported more than 2,000 blankets from Atlanta to Thomaston and surrounding areas. On that trip, McCarty learned what Booker was willing to do for his community, she said.
“He was a man of faith… he truly loved the Lord and served him in so many ways, often known only to him,” McCarty said. “He didn’t toot his own horn, he just did what he did for whoever needed something at the time he encountered them. And that made him the Bobby that everyone knew.”
Bobby involved his wife Teresa and his children in EMA rescue, according to McCarty. Teresa serves as an administrative assistant, and his sons have helped with searches on the Flint more than once.
“Bobby will be missed, not only by his wife and family, but by this entire community,” McCarty said, referring to him fondly as “an avid river rat. He made the word ‘service’ his motto for living.”
Mackey Competes in Broadway Contes
Submitted; Photo by King Davis
Published 4-27-2021
Voting has begun for broadwayworld.com’s Next On Stage Contest and Thomaston Native Cara Mackey is a contestant in the online contest.
Broadwayworld.com offers a Next On Stage contest where participants can submit a video to be reviewed by producers, directors, and actors from Broadway to determine a winner. Mackey is currently one of 30 contestants in the running.
"A year ago, this kid would have never done this,” said Mackey’s mother, Mia. “She just wants the feedback from the judges, but Mama is telling her she can go all the way… It’s Broadway’s version of American Idol.”
The winner will receive a three-month scholarship for private coaching lessons from “one of the best West End (London’s Broadway) schools,” commented Mia.
Voting will be open to the public through May 4 at 11 a.m. and Cara’s submission can be found at https://www.broadwayworld.com/nextonstage/cara-mackey-?fbclid=IwAR3P4UKrua7f9Va7Tgn-zZ_oX8A9b93nOe5h2nvYE8-CpGt-A5jH48vdBI8.
Voting has begun for broadwayworld.com’s Next On Stage Contest and Thomaston Native Cara Mackey is a contestant in the online contest.
Broadwayworld.com offers a Next On Stage contest where participants can submit a video to be reviewed by producers, directors, and actors from Broadway to determine a winner. Mackey is currently one of 30 contestants in the running.
"A year ago, this kid would have never done this,” said Mackey’s mother, Mia. “She just wants the feedback from the judges, but Mama is telling her she can go all the way… It’s Broadway’s version of American Idol.”
The winner will receive a three-month scholarship for private coaching lessons from “one of the best West End (London’s Broadway) schools,” commented Mia.
Voting will be open to the public through May 4 at 11 a.m. and Cara’s submission can be found at https://www.broadwayworld.com/nextonstage/cara-mackey-?fbclid=IwAR3P4UKrua7f9Va7Tgn-zZ_oX8A9b93nOe5h2nvYE8-CpGt-A5jH48vdBI8.
Family Loses ‘Everything’ in Monday Morning Fire
Published 4-22-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Local first responders were dispatched to 405 West Moores Crossing Road at 3:18 a.m. Monday Morning in reference to a house fire. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined but fire fighters believe it began in the garage of the house, according to Rock Hill Volunteer Fire Department Chief Alan Yarborough.
Family members on the scene told The Upson Beacon that five family members, including a five-month-old baby, were inside the house when the fire began. The baby “continuously kicked and yelled at his uncle to wake him… Our family lost the family home that has sheltered us and been in the family for generations, as well as our only vehicle,” commented one victim.
One woman was on dialysis at the time and her son was able to get her outside before the structure and a vehicle became engulfed. No lives were lost, but the family was unable to save any belongings, other than the clothes they were wearing (with no shoes). They are in contact with the American Red Cross.
A Go-Fund-Me fundraiser was set up for the family and can be accessed at https://gofund.me/9831a550.
“Any blessing will be greatly needed and appreciated,” commented the victim. “We thank you all in advance for assisting our family in this tough time.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Local first responders were dispatched to 405 West Moores Crossing Road at 3:18 a.m. Monday Morning in reference to a house fire. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined but fire fighters believe it began in the garage of the house, according to Rock Hill Volunteer Fire Department Chief Alan Yarborough.
Family members on the scene told The Upson Beacon that five family members, including a five-month-old baby, were inside the house when the fire began. The baby “continuously kicked and yelled at his uncle to wake him… Our family lost the family home that has sheltered us and been in the family for generations, as well as our only vehicle,” commented one victim.
One woman was on dialysis at the time and her son was able to get her outside before the structure and a vehicle became engulfed. No lives were lost, but the family was unable to save any belongings, other than the clothes they were wearing (with no shoes). They are in contact with the American Red Cross.
A Go-Fund-Me fundraiser was set up for the family and can be accessed at https://gofund.me/9831a550.
“Any blessing will be greatly needed and appreciated,” commented the victim. “We thank you all in advance for assisting our family in this tough time.”
Thomaston Garden Lifestyle Expert Featured on HGTV
Tune in April 21 For Carmen Johnston & HGTV Smart Home 2021 Special
Published 4-16-2021
When you tune in to the HGTV Smart Home 2021 special on April 21, you’ll see a familiar Middle Georgia face, Carmen Johnston, owner of Carmen Johnston Gardens in Thomaston, who served as the Tech and Wellness Expert for the cutting-edge home located in Naples, Florida.
With passion for home and garden innovation and technology, Johnston has helped the popular, national network create a smarter, more innovative home which viewers can register for a chance to win.
“We’ve all spent so much more time in our homes over the past year and the desire for a smarter, more innovative and enjoyable space is at an all time high. The April HGTV Smart Home premiere will definitely inspire you to weave clever products and design into your home as it features big and small, adaptable ideas,” Johnston said.
Now more than ever, HGTV knows how truly important home is. It’s not just a place where we eat and sleep. For many of us, home is our family hub, our office, our place to learn, and our haven. So, this year’s HGTV Smart Home is designed to help consumers lead a life well-lived - mind, body and soul. From the latest tech innovations, to smart organization solutions, to rooms created with health and wellness in mind, join HGTV as they redefine what it means to “live smart.”
On the special, you’ll see Johnston working with the interior designer Tiffany Brooks, on innovative spaces for the family’s work and play while featuring wellness products to make your home a healthier and safer place. Johnston also takes to the water with home improvement veteran Ty Pennington.
“I had actually not kayaked before and had to buy one to practice on our family pond with my husband, Tommy! We now love it. The Smart Home features a garage lift for a kayak and we are giving one away via my social media and website,” Johnston said.
Carmen Johnston Gardens is giving away three tech and wellness products from the home beginning with a Rise Garden which she added to the home’s kitchen pantry.
“Who doesn’t want fresh herbs, greens and produce year-round. This hydroponic garden with smart grow lighting makes it easy and we are now giving one away. The winner will be announced April 21 immediately following the special and announced on my social media channels,” Johnston said.
Beginning April 21, you’ll be able to enter online for a chance to win the HGTV Smart Home 2021. The grand prize is worth over $1.1 million and includes the home and all furnishings, a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet and $100,000 from LendingTree.
The one-hour special airs Wednesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. EDT. There will be special encores on Tuesday, May 4 at 8 a.m., Thursday, May 13 at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 26 at 11 a.m., Monday, May 31 at 8 a.m. and Friday, June 11 at 1 p.m. All times are Eastern and be sure and check your television guide for any changes.
For more information, visit CarmenJohnstonGardens.com.
When you tune in to the HGTV Smart Home 2021 special on April 21, you’ll see a familiar Middle Georgia face, Carmen Johnston, owner of Carmen Johnston Gardens in Thomaston, who served as the Tech and Wellness Expert for the cutting-edge home located in Naples, Florida.
With passion for home and garden innovation and technology, Johnston has helped the popular, national network create a smarter, more innovative home which viewers can register for a chance to win.
“We’ve all spent so much more time in our homes over the past year and the desire for a smarter, more innovative and enjoyable space is at an all time high. The April HGTV Smart Home premiere will definitely inspire you to weave clever products and design into your home as it features big and small, adaptable ideas,” Johnston said.
Now more than ever, HGTV knows how truly important home is. It’s not just a place where we eat and sleep. For many of us, home is our family hub, our office, our place to learn, and our haven. So, this year’s HGTV Smart Home is designed to help consumers lead a life well-lived - mind, body and soul. From the latest tech innovations, to smart organization solutions, to rooms created with health and wellness in mind, join HGTV as they redefine what it means to “live smart.”
On the special, you’ll see Johnston working with the interior designer Tiffany Brooks, on innovative spaces for the family’s work and play while featuring wellness products to make your home a healthier and safer place. Johnston also takes to the water with home improvement veteran Ty Pennington.
“I had actually not kayaked before and had to buy one to practice on our family pond with my husband, Tommy! We now love it. The Smart Home features a garage lift for a kayak and we are giving one away via my social media and website,” Johnston said.
Carmen Johnston Gardens is giving away three tech and wellness products from the home beginning with a Rise Garden which she added to the home’s kitchen pantry.
“Who doesn’t want fresh herbs, greens and produce year-round. This hydroponic garden with smart grow lighting makes it easy and we are now giving one away. The winner will be announced April 21 immediately following the special and announced on my social media channels,” Johnston said.
Beginning April 21, you’ll be able to enter online for a chance to win the HGTV Smart Home 2021. The grand prize is worth over $1.1 million and includes the home and all furnishings, a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet and $100,000 from LendingTree.
The one-hour special airs Wednesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. EDT. There will be special encores on Tuesday, May 4 at 8 a.m., Thursday, May 13 at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 26 at 11 a.m., Monday, May 31 at 8 a.m. and Friday, June 11 at 1 p.m. All times are Eastern and be sure and check your television guide for any changes.
For more information, visit CarmenJohnstonGardens.com.
McGee Retires After 45 Years
Russ McGee recently retired after working in emergency medical services for 45 years. McGee’s last day with Georgia EMS was March 30.
McGee, who began working in EMS services at the age of 18, worked while continuing his education, graduated Gordon College in 1978, and the University of Georgia in 1981. McGee and his wife Cindy celebrate 40 years of marriage next month.
The Legacy of Alfredo ‘Alfonzo’ Britt Lives On
Alfred “Alfonzo” Douglas Britt
Published 4-8-2021
Late Thomaston native Alfred “Alfonzo” Britt played in various local bands over the years, bringing many together to enjoy the soul, beach, and Motown tunes that he loved so, while starting and inspiring several bands throughout his life.
Starting a band during his high school years, Britt developed the SOABS, which played local gigs and included members Bobby Alexander, Darrell McGlon, Harold Lieferman, and David Penn. Shortly after, Britt left to play bass with older musicians, before returning to develop “Alfonzo and the Fabulous Bootleggers.”
As the SOABS “fell apart,” Penn remembers joining a group with Alexander called “The Apaches.” Both bands covered conventional “rock and roll” material from artists like Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Richie Valens, and The Beatles.
After about a year had passed, Penn and Alexander, along with Gary Fortner, received phone calls in 1964 from Britt, who wanted to put together a horn band to do soul, beach, and Motown covers. The four, along with three horn players, got together to develop a setlist of covers from artists like James Brown, Otis Redding, The Temptations, and more.
“That sounded like fun,” commented Penn. “We all felt we might book bigger and better gigs for more money, so we reluctantly jumped at the chance.”
Alfonzo and the Fabulous Bootleggers was an eight-piece band, including lead vocalist and front man Alfonzo, three horns, a guitar, bass, organ, and drums. The group was formed of musicians who performed in various local bands during their upbringing and attendance at R.E. Lee Institute and the band formed to play the horn-based soul, beach, and Motown music that became popular in the 1960s.
While the horn section was accustomed to reading sheet music, other members learned parts by ear. Penn recalls practicing and listening to the first record “four or five times, picking up the arm and replacing the needle in spots to be sure we all knew our parts.” Finally counting off and playing the song, members were “blown away” by the combination of the instruments, “and our first experience with the horn section just about laid us out in the floor.”
The band’s name, Alfonzo and the Fabulous Bootleggers, has an interesting origin. “Bootleggers” was derived from the song “Bootleg,” by Booker T. and the MG’s, the first song played by the band.
Entering a “battle of the bands” at the West Central Georgia Fair in 1965, the band “easily won.” Easy winnings were contributed to Britt coming onto stage sliding along on one foot and at the end of the set, mimicking James Brown’s signature “Please, Please, Please.”
Announcing the winners, a radio disc jockey called the group back up for an encore and instead of introducing them as “Alfonzo and the Bootleggers,” added in the word “Fabulous,” and all band members agreed it sounded “pretty cool.”
Successfully developing a following, the band traveled throughout Macon and Atlanta to perform in various schools, music halls, and clubs. In the summer of 1965, the band submitted a demo package to Bob Lamb Productions, a booking agency in Macon, allowing for more opportunities, including playing with nationally recognized recording acts. The band did receive preliminary contract offers, but were in no position to accept, since the band had no original songs and were still in high school.
The hard work and inspiration of Alfred Britt contributed to the development of additional bands, including Penn’s current band, “The Soul Purpose Band.”
After graduating high school, Britt served in the United States Navy as a medic in DeNang during the Vietnam War. He later attended Gordon Military College, transferring to the University of Georgia and obtaining a degree in journalism. He was employed by C&S Upholstery as a salesman and was a member of First United Methodist Church in Thomaston.
Britt passed away Feb. 6, but his legacy continues to inspire others.
“I am eternally grateful for my close friend and musical brother, Alfred (Alfonzo) Douglas Britt,” commented Penn. “Because of his creative talent and our friendship, I have enjoyed many happy years and memories performing classic soul, beach, and Motown hits… Fonzo was very special, extraordinarily talented, funny, and a kind man who loved his family and friends, and loved entertaining and making people smile and laugh… My sincerest condolences go out to all of his family and friends. May my dear brother, Fonzo, find his final rest in God’s eternal love and peace.”
Late Thomaston native Alfred “Alfonzo” Britt played in various local bands over the years, bringing many together to enjoy the soul, beach, and Motown tunes that he loved so, while starting and inspiring several bands throughout his life.
Starting a band during his high school years, Britt developed the SOABS, which played local gigs and included members Bobby Alexander, Darrell McGlon, Harold Lieferman, and David Penn. Shortly after, Britt left to play bass with older musicians, before returning to develop “Alfonzo and the Fabulous Bootleggers.”
As the SOABS “fell apart,” Penn remembers joining a group with Alexander called “The Apaches.” Both bands covered conventional “rock and roll” material from artists like Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Richie Valens, and The Beatles.
After about a year had passed, Penn and Alexander, along with Gary Fortner, received phone calls in 1964 from Britt, who wanted to put together a horn band to do soul, beach, and Motown covers. The four, along with three horn players, got together to develop a setlist of covers from artists like James Brown, Otis Redding, The Temptations, and more.
“That sounded like fun,” commented Penn. “We all felt we might book bigger and better gigs for more money, so we reluctantly jumped at the chance.”
Alfonzo and the Fabulous Bootleggers was an eight-piece band, including lead vocalist and front man Alfonzo, three horns, a guitar, bass, organ, and drums. The group was formed of musicians who performed in various local bands during their upbringing and attendance at R.E. Lee Institute and the band formed to play the horn-based soul, beach, and Motown music that became popular in the 1960s.
While the horn section was accustomed to reading sheet music, other members learned parts by ear. Penn recalls practicing and listening to the first record “four or five times, picking up the arm and replacing the needle in spots to be sure we all knew our parts.” Finally counting off and playing the song, members were “blown away” by the combination of the instruments, “and our first experience with the horn section just about laid us out in the floor.”
The band’s name, Alfonzo and the Fabulous Bootleggers, has an interesting origin. “Bootleggers” was derived from the song “Bootleg,” by Booker T. and the MG’s, the first song played by the band.
Entering a “battle of the bands” at the West Central Georgia Fair in 1965, the band “easily won.” Easy winnings were contributed to Britt coming onto stage sliding along on one foot and at the end of the set, mimicking James Brown’s signature “Please, Please, Please.”
Announcing the winners, a radio disc jockey called the group back up for an encore and instead of introducing them as “Alfonzo and the Bootleggers,” added in the word “Fabulous,” and all band members agreed it sounded “pretty cool.”
Successfully developing a following, the band traveled throughout Macon and Atlanta to perform in various schools, music halls, and clubs. In the summer of 1965, the band submitted a demo package to Bob Lamb Productions, a booking agency in Macon, allowing for more opportunities, including playing with nationally recognized recording acts. The band did receive preliminary contract offers, but were in no position to accept, since the band had no original songs and were still in high school.
The hard work and inspiration of Alfred Britt contributed to the development of additional bands, including Penn’s current band, “The Soul Purpose Band.”
After graduating high school, Britt served in the United States Navy as a medic in DeNang during the Vietnam War. He later attended Gordon Military College, transferring to the University of Georgia and obtaining a degree in journalism. He was employed by C&S Upholstery as a salesman and was a member of First United Methodist Church in Thomaston.
Britt passed away Feb. 6, but his legacy continues to inspire others.
“I am eternally grateful for my close friend and musical brother, Alfred (Alfonzo) Douglas Britt,” commented Penn. “Because of his creative talent and our friendship, I have enjoyed many happy years and memories performing classic soul, beach, and Motown hits… Fonzo was very special, extraordinarily talented, funny, and a kind man who loved his family and friends, and loved entertaining and making people smile and laugh… My sincerest condolences go out to all of his family and friends. May my dear brother, Fonzo, find his final rest in God’s eternal love and peace.”
TUAC Presents Dolly Parton Tribute Show
Additional Photos available soon.
Published 4-1-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council recently presented “Dolly,” a Dolly Parton Tribute Show, at R.E. Lee Auditorium. Performers contributed a range of Parton’s songs from her solo career, movie features, duo acts, and more.
Performers included: Christen Colwell, Peyton Chapman, Shari and Jeff Lewis, Riley Greer, Chadwick Loyd, Gracyn Fuller, Taylor Phillips, Marti Sommers, Rachel Jordan, Sylvia Chapman, Georgia Hanson, Rebecca Hanson, Kaylan Dawson, Judd Greer, Susannah Renz, Carmen Ellerbee, and Skye Perdue.
The show was hosted by Chadwick Loyd and Georgia Hanson and sponsored by McGriff Insurance Services.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council recently presented “Dolly,” a Dolly Parton Tribute Show, at R.E. Lee Auditorium. Performers contributed a range of Parton’s songs from her solo career, movie features, duo acts, and more.
Performers included: Christen Colwell, Peyton Chapman, Shari and Jeff Lewis, Riley Greer, Chadwick Loyd, Gracyn Fuller, Taylor Phillips, Marti Sommers, Rachel Jordan, Sylvia Chapman, Georgia Hanson, Rebecca Hanson, Kaylan Dawson, Judd Greer, Susannah Renz, Carmen Ellerbee, and Skye Perdue.
The show was hosted by Chadwick Loyd and Georgia Hanson and sponsored by McGriff Insurance Services.
Driver Retires After 47 Years
40 Years as County Auditor
Published 3-25-2021
Wayne Driver of Driver Adams + Sharpe, CPAs and Consultants, with offices in Upson and Pike Counties, is retiring after 47 years of practice in audit and accounting.
Driver is a native of Macon and graduated from Lanier Senior High School in 1967. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force and received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of South Florida in 1974. After completing his required two-year internship, he received his CPA certification from the Georgia State Board of Accountancy in 1976. In 1977, he moved to Thomaston and opened his CPA practice.
Wayne served on the board of directors for C&S Bank, Colony Bank, Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce, and was charter president of the SERTOMA Club. During his career, he helped numerous clients reach their financial goals and served as auditor for Upson County for 40 years.
“The Board of Commissioners wishes Mr. Driver the very best as he enters into his retirement,” stated Chairman Norman Allen. “He has served Upson County and our community for many years with professionalism and courtesy, and while his departure saddens us, we are happy that he is now taking the opportunity to enjoy retired life.
“Mr. Wayne has been both a friend and mentor, providing me with much insight on county government finance. Upson County is better because of his years of service,” Allen continued. “Borrowing a phrase from the Navy… Fair Winds and Following Seas!”
Driver extends a heartfelt and sincere appreciation to the communities, organizations, clients, and friends who have allowed him to serve, and he attributes all success he has enjoyed to the high quality and character of the people of Thomaston and Upson County. He intends to remain active, travel, play golf, and enjoy fellowship with friends and family.
Wayne Driver of Driver Adams + Sharpe, CPAs and Consultants, with offices in Upson and Pike Counties, is retiring after 47 years of practice in audit and accounting.
Driver is a native of Macon and graduated from Lanier Senior High School in 1967. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force and received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of South Florida in 1974. After completing his required two-year internship, he received his CPA certification from the Georgia State Board of Accountancy in 1976. In 1977, he moved to Thomaston and opened his CPA practice.
Wayne served on the board of directors for C&S Bank, Colony Bank, Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce, and was charter president of the SERTOMA Club. During his career, he helped numerous clients reach their financial goals and served as auditor for Upson County for 40 years.
“The Board of Commissioners wishes Mr. Driver the very best as he enters into his retirement,” stated Chairman Norman Allen. “He has served Upson County and our community for many years with professionalism and courtesy, and while his departure saddens us, we are happy that he is now taking the opportunity to enjoy retired life.
“Mr. Wayne has been both a friend and mentor, providing me with much insight on county government finance. Upson County is better because of his years of service,” Allen continued. “Borrowing a phrase from the Navy… Fair Winds and Following Seas!”
Driver extends a heartfelt and sincere appreciation to the communities, organizations, clients, and friends who have allowed him to serve, and he attributes all success he has enjoyed to the high quality and character of the people of Thomaston and Upson County. He intends to remain active, travel, play golf, and enjoy fellowship with friends and family.
TUAC Presents ‘Dolly’
Sylvia Chapman performing “Romeo.”
Published 3-25-2021
The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council presented “Dolly,” a Dolly Parton Tribute Show, last Friday at R.E. Lee Auditorium. Performers contributed a range of Parton’s songs from her solo career, movie features, and more.
See additional photos in the 4-1-2021 edition of The Upson Beacon. Photos by Luke Haney.
The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council presented “Dolly,” a Dolly Parton Tribute Show, last Friday at R.E. Lee Auditorium. Performers contributed a range of Parton’s songs from her solo career, movie features, and more.
See additional photos in the 4-1-2021 edition of The Upson Beacon. Photos by Luke Haney.
Former Yatesville Councilman,
Fire Chief, Ellington Dies at 82
Published 3-25-2021
Funeral services were held Wednesday for James E. Ellington, Sr., who died Sunday, March 21 at his residence in Yatesville.
Ellington, 82, was a long-time member of the Yatesville City Council, served as mayor pro tempore of Yatesville, and retired after years of service as chief of the Yatesville Fire Department. He was a member of Yatesville United Methodist Church.
A 1957 graduate of Yatesville High School, Ellington’s lifelong dedication to public service began after he later graduated from Georgia College of Milledgeville. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force and retired from civil service at Robins Air Force Base after 37 years.
Ellington’s complete obituary appears online under the Funeral Notice Tab.
Funeral services were held Wednesday for James E. Ellington, Sr., who died Sunday, March 21 at his residence in Yatesville.
Ellington, 82, was a long-time member of the Yatesville City Council, served as mayor pro tempore of Yatesville, and retired after years of service as chief of the Yatesville Fire Department. He was a member of Yatesville United Methodist Church.
A 1957 graduate of Yatesville High School, Ellington’s lifelong dedication to public service began after he later graduated from Georgia College of Milledgeville. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force and retired from civil service at Robins Air Force Base after 37 years.
Ellington’s complete obituary appears online under the Funeral Notice Tab.
145 Years of History Found in Andrews Chapel School
Upson’s Historic One-room Schoolhouse is the Center of Attention
Published 3-11-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
“You can find old buildings, you can find old stuff, but you can’t find this. It’s been done away with. This is why I wanted you to remember,” said Jimmy McKinley. “Somebody’s got to remember this and tell the younger people what type of shape this is in.”
Long before the days of school buses, cafeterias, and remote learning opportunities, rural American children were considered “privileged” to access education. One-room schoolhouses were commonly spread across the United States during the late 1800s and early 1900s and Upson County is home to one of the few hundred remaining one-room schoolhouses. According to NPR, American one-room schools once numbered above 190,000, but less than 400 remain today.
William G. Andrews, born 1796, developed land grants in Upson County and was a catalyst for development in the Andrews Community during the 1800s. While in Virginia, Andrews began creating a “cyphering book” at an early age and later utilized the manuscript for homeschooling his nine children. After moving to Upson County in 1827, Andrews developed a plantation and acquired thousands of acres in Upson throughout his life.
Andrews passed away in 1875 and his son, Thomas G. Andrews, maintained the family plantation and grist mill. Seeing a need for a community schoolhouse, Andrews constructed a small, one-room schoolhouse in 1876, named Andrews Academy.
Many children in the Andrews Community, which is nestled between Thomaston, Yatesville, and The Rock, attended school at Andrews Academy. Andrews’ Daughter Elizabeth married Drake Colquitt in the schoolhouse on June 1, 1896 and the name was forever changed to Andrews Chapel School.
On that day, Andrews promised that for the next 100 years, a singing would be held in the building on the first Sunday of each June.
“I told Jimmy that if he had to play the piano and I had to sing, we wouldn’t let that man be a liar,” said Glenda McKinley, who has maintained the schoolhouse with her husband Jimmy since 1983.
Severe windstorms in 1911 blew down the Andrews Chapel school building, which included one room that was half the size of the current schoolhouse, a fireplace, and held between 18-28 community students at a time.
Shortly after, John A. Thurston became superintendent of Upson County Schools. Seeing a need for the county to have centralized community schools, he came up with funds in 1912 and the community constructed a new Andrews Chapel School to the left of the previous structure.
During Andrews Chapel’s 65 years in operation, at least 15 teachers came through and often boarded with local families at no cost, most often with Jimmy McKinley’s grandparents, who lived just 300 yards from the schoolhouse.
Andrews Chapel School, like most rural schools at the time, was in session depending on planting and harvesting seasons. Students would attend school between November and February before breaking for Spring planting, and from June to August, when harvesting season began. Students were often released at noon when the weather was favorable for farm chores.
In a time before running water and access to electricity, one student was given the duty each day to bring a pale of water from the nearby spring for students to drink. Lighting was provided from windows and hanging kerosene lamps, lunch was carried in old lard tins, and two outhouses provided bathroom facilities for both boys and girls.
During the winter, heat was curated in a central potbelly stove and each family was responsible for providing one wagon load of firewood each year.
Many students graced the front entry to Andrews Chapel School for the next two decades and in the 1930s, enough timber was cut from the school property to add an extension to the school, allowing for a stage on the back side of the building. Classes remained active through the 1940-41 school year and transportation was provided in 1942 when local students consolidated with those of Yatesville and The Rock schools.
Between the years of 1941 and 2018, Andrews Chapel was maintained by the Andrews Community Club. When the original deed could not be located, Albert T. Matthews, who owned all the surrounding land, had legal ownership of the six-acre property. Jimmy McKinley’s mother visited Matthews, who signed a quick claim deed, transferring rights to the Andrews Community Club, as long as the school was used as a community building, or it would revert back to the Matthews Family.
Upkeep was spearheaded by McKinley’s grandparents and parents and in 1983, Jimmy and Glenda McKinley took responsibility of the building’s upkeep. Throughout the next few decades, the McKinley family sought to find replicas of items once used in the schoolhouse, including antique kerosene lamps, blackboards, disciplinary wooden and leather paddles, and writing tablets. They also maintained the condition of original items that remained, including a portrait of the state bird and flower, Jimmy’s mother’s report card, and original wooden school desks.
Until 2018, The Andrews Community Club utilized the schoolhouse as a meeting place and opened it for reunions, birthdays, and other celebrations, including the Upson Historical Society’s annual picnic in 1990, which had an attendance of about 90 people. For years, local schoolchildren from both public and private schools took field trips to the one-room schoolhouse and were educated about its history by McKinley, who “usually couldn’t speak after the tours, because the students asked him so many questions.”
In 1996, the 100th annual singing took place at Andrews Chapel with the Sacred Harp Singers, a traveling Georgia gospel group who have performed at the schoolhouse annually, including October 2020. It is said that members of the Sacred Harp Singers continue to come because of the “incredible acoustics inside the one-room building.”
Students often carved their initials into desks to prove their education, since students at the time were considered “privileged” to attend. McKinley shared a story of a Texas man traveling back into his hometown of Thomaston, wishing to visit the school. McKinley met the man and let him in, where the Texan was able to locate his initials. All original desks included a carved inkwell hole.
A cemetery sits south of the schoolhouse and when Albert Nixon, grandson of Albert T. Matthews, deeded the property to the Upson County Board of Commissioners in 2018, he split the property into two, three-acre lots because commissioners did not wish to maintain rural cemeteries.
Since 2018, little has happened at Andrews Chapel. According to the McKinleys, plans were made for reroofing prior to the property being deeded to the county, but were put on hold while county officials made plans for Andrew Chapel.
Today, the schoolhouse features many original furnishings, as well as sourced antiques that resemble what was once inside. Wooden benches in the center of the building provide seating for visiting singing groups and a podium has been added to the stage. Electricity and three light bulbs were installed in 1951, but the building still has no running water. Many documents of Andrews Chapel School, including class pictures, report cards, and the quick-claim deed giving the property to the Andrews Community, remain inside of the schoolhouse and at the Thomaston-Upson Archives.
After a recent county workshop session, Commissioners and county officials visited the property and discussed multiple possibilities for the future of Andrews Chapel.
“The building has been here over 100 years. It needs some repairs, the flooring [is not level], but it’s been that way for 70 or 80 years,” commented Glenda McKinley, who attributes uneven flooring to a stacked stone slipping out of place in the early 1900s, causing the structure to unevenly settle.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
“You can find old buildings, you can find old stuff, but you can’t find this. It’s been done away with. This is why I wanted you to remember,” said Jimmy McKinley. “Somebody’s got to remember this and tell the younger people what type of shape this is in.”
Long before the days of school buses, cafeterias, and remote learning opportunities, rural American children were considered “privileged” to access education. One-room schoolhouses were commonly spread across the United States during the late 1800s and early 1900s and Upson County is home to one of the few hundred remaining one-room schoolhouses. According to NPR, American one-room schools once numbered above 190,000, but less than 400 remain today.
William G. Andrews, born 1796, developed land grants in Upson County and was a catalyst for development in the Andrews Community during the 1800s. While in Virginia, Andrews began creating a “cyphering book” at an early age and later utilized the manuscript for homeschooling his nine children. After moving to Upson County in 1827, Andrews developed a plantation and acquired thousands of acres in Upson throughout his life.
Andrews passed away in 1875 and his son, Thomas G. Andrews, maintained the family plantation and grist mill. Seeing a need for a community schoolhouse, Andrews constructed a small, one-room schoolhouse in 1876, named Andrews Academy.
Many children in the Andrews Community, which is nestled between Thomaston, Yatesville, and The Rock, attended school at Andrews Academy. Andrews’ Daughter Elizabeth married Drake Colquitt in the schoolhouse on June 1, 1896 and the name was forever changed to Andrews Chapel School.
On that day, Andrews promised that for the next 100 years, a singing would be held in the building on the first Sunday of each June.
“I told Jimmy that if he had to play the piano and I had to sing, we wouldn’t let that man be a liar,” said Glenda McKinley, who has maintained the schoolhouse with her husband Jimmy since 1983.
Severe windstorms in 1911 blew down the Andrews Chapel school building, which included one room that was half the size of the current schoolhouse, a fireplace, and held between 18-28 community students at a time.
Shortly after, John A. Thurston became superintendent of Upson County Schools. Seeing a need for the county to have centralized community schools, he came up with funds in 1912 and the community constructed a new Andrews Chapel School to the left of the previous structure.
During Andrews Chapel’s 65 years in operation, at least 15 teachers came through and often boarded with local families at no cost, most often with Jimmy McKinley’s grandparents, who lived just 300 yards from the schoolhouse.
Andrews Chapel School, like most rural schools at the time, was in session depending on planting and harvesting seasons. Students would attend school between November and February before breaking for Spring planting, and from June to August, when harvesting season began. Students were often released at noon when the weather was favorable for farm chores.
In a time before running water and access to electricity, one student was given the duty each day to bring a pale of water from the nearby spring for students to drink. Lighting was provided from windows and hanging kerosene lamps, lunch was carried in old lard tins, and two outhouses provided bathroom facilities for both boys and girls.
During the winter, heat was curated in a central potbelly stove and each family was responsible for providing one wagon load of firewood each year.
Many students graced the front entry to Andrews Chapel School for the next two decades and in the 1930s, enough timber was cut from the school property to add an extension to the school, allowing for a stage on the back side of the building. Classes remained active through the 1940-41 school year and transportation was provided in 1942 when local students consolidated with those of Yatesville and The Rock schools.
Between the years of 1941 and 2018, Andrews Chapel was maintained by the Andrews Community Club. When the original deed could not be located, Albert T. Matthews, who owned all the surrounding land, had legal ownership of the six-acre property. Jimmy McKinley’s mother visited Matthews, who signed a quick claim deed, transferring rights to the Andrews Community Club, as long as the school was used as a community building, or it would revert back to the Matthews Family.
Upkeep was spearheaded by McKinley’s grandparents and parents and in 1983, Jimmy and Glenda McKinley took responsibility of the building’s upkeep. Throughout the next few decades, the McKinley family sought to find replicas of items once used in the schoolhouse, including antique kerosene lamps, blackboards, disciplinary wooden and leather paddles, and writing tablets. They also maintained the condition of original items that remained, including a portrait of the state bird and flower, Jimmy’s mother’s report card, and original wooden school desks.
Until 2018, The Andrews Community Club utilized the schoolhouse as a meeting place and opened it for reunions, birthdays, and other celebrations, including the Upson Historical Society’s annual picnic in 1990, which had an attendance of about 90 people. For years, local schoolchildren from both public and private schools took field trips to the one-room schoolhouse and were educated about its history by McKinley, who “usually couldn’t speak after the tours, because the students asked him so many questions.”
In 1996, the 100th annual singing took place at Andrews Chapel with the Sacred Harp Singers, a traveling Georgia gospel group who have performed at the schoolhouse annually, including October 2020. It is said that members of the Sacred Harp Singers continue to come because of the “incredible acoustics inside the one-room building.”
Students often carved their initials into desks to prove their education, since students at the time were considered “privileged” to attend. McKinley shared a story of a Texas man traveling back into his hometown of Thomaston, wishing to visit the school. McKinley met the man and let him in, where the Texan was able to locate his initials. All original desks included a carved inkwell hole.
A cemetery sits south of the schoolhouse and when Albert Nixon, grandson of Albert T. Matthews, deeded the property to the Upson County Board of Commissioners in 2018, he split the property into two, three-acre lots because commissioners did not wish to maintain rural cemeteries.
Since 2018, little has happened at Andrews Chapel. According to the McKinleys, plans were made for reroofing prior to the property being deeded to the county, but were put on hold while county officials made plans for Andrew Chapel.
Today, the schoolhouse features many original furnishings, as well as sourced antiques that resemble what was once inside. Wooden benches in the center of the building provide seating for visiting singing groups and a podium has been added to the stage. Electricity and three light bulbs were installed in 1951, but the building still has no running water. Many documents of Andrews Chapel School, including class pictures, report cards, and the quick-claim deed giving the property to the Andrews Community, remain inside of the schoolhouse and at the Thomaston-Upson Archives.
After a recent county workshop session, Commissioners and county officials visited the property and discussed multiple possibilities for the future of Andrews Chapel.
“The building has been here over 100 years. It needs some repairs, the flooring [is not level], but it’s been that way for 70 or 80 years,” commented Glenda McKinley, who attributes uneven flooring to a stacked stone slipping out of place in the early 1900s, causing the structure to unevenly settle.
Chief Hickmon Wins 2021 Rick Perkins Award
Published 3-11-2021
Richard Hickmon, chief of the Thurston Volunteer Fire Department, was recently awarded the 2021 Rick Perkins Award, in addition to being named a GOAL winner.
Hickmon was selected as one of two winners at West Georgia Technical College, along with Elizabeth Rodrigues.
Richard Hickmon, chief of the Thurston Volunteer Fire Department, was recently awarded the 2021 Rick Perkins Award, in addition to being named a GOAL winner.
Hickmon was selected as one of two winners at West Georgia Technical College, along with Elizabeth Rodrigues.
Educators Receive Vaccinations
Dr. Larry Derico, Superintendent of the Thomaston-Upson School System, and his wife Vernecia, a Third Grade Teacher at ULES, were the first local educators to receive their COVID-19 vaccine on March 8.
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Published 3-11-2021
Upson Regional Medical Center dedicated COVID-19 vaccination services last Monday to the faculty and staff of Thomaston-Upson Schools.
T-U Schools transitioned to remote learning for two days at the beginning of the week to allow staff time to receive the first dose of the vaccine.
Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico was the first member of the school system to receive the vaccine Monday morning.
Upson Regional Medical Center dedicated COVID-19 vaccination services last Monday to the faculty and staff of Thomaston-Upson Schools.
T-U Schools transitioned to remote learning for two days at the beginning of the week to allow staff time to receive the first dose of the vaccine.
Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico was the first member of the school system to receive the vaccine Monday morning.
Quad Plant Director Jeff Stribling Retires
Jeff Stribling
Published 3-11-2021
Quad’s Thomaston Plant Director Jeff Stribling has announced his retirement after almost three decades with the company, effective April 1, according to a release from the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce.
“Jeff has been a trusted leader in our community,” chamber officials said. “He has served many roles on the chamber board, including chairman in 2016, and currently chairs our Industry Roundtable Committee.”
Jeff joined Quad in 1992 as a finishing electrician at Quad’s acquired plant in Thomaston. He was promoted to finishing electrical manager in 1995, supervising maintenance while assisting with the start-up of finishing operations in the newly built plant in The Rock.
In 1999, Jeff was promoted to production support manager, responsible for all plant production maintenance at The Rock. He was appointed to finishing operations manager in 2007 and promoted to his current role of plant director of The Rock in 2010.
For a time, Jeff also served as plant director of the now closed facility in Charlotte, N.C.
Prior to joining Quad, Jeff was a journeyman electrician and foreman for J.M. Clayton, an electrical engineering company. He was instrumental in the construction and installation of press and finishing equipment at W.R. Bean & Son’s plant in Thomaston in 1981 (which Quad acquired in 1989).
He is a graduate of the Electrical Apprenticeship Program at Macon Technical College and the Business Management Program at Southern Crescent Technical College.
Over the years, Jeff has been active in his community, including serving on the board of directors (among other boards) at Southern Crescent Technical College. A native of Thomaston, he has also served on several Upson County boards including the High School Graphics Arts Advisory Board.
Jeff said he looks forward to spending time with his wife, family and especially his grandchildren, and on the golf course as well as camping.
Quad’s Thomaston Plant Director Jeff Stribling has announced his retirement after almost three decades with the company, effective April 1, according to a release from the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce.
“Jeff has been a trusted leader in our community,” chamber officials said. “He has served many roles on the chamber board, including chairman in 2016, and currently chairs our Industry Roundtable Committee.”
Jeff joined Quad in 1992 as a finishing electrician at Quad’s acquired plant in Thomaston. He was promoted to finishing electrical manager in 1995, supervising maintenance while assisting with the start-up of finishing operations in the newly built plant in The Rock.
In 1999, Jeff was promoted to production support manager, responsible for all plant production maintenance at The Rock. He was appointed to finishing operations manager in 2007 and promoted to his current role of plant director of The Rock in 2010.
For a time, Jeff also served as plant director of the now closed facility in Charlotte, N.C.
Prior to joining Quad, Jeff was a journeyman electrician and foreman for J.M. Clayton, an electrical engineering company. He was instrumental in the construction and installation of press and finishing equipment at W.R. Bean & Son’s plant in Thomaston in 1981 (which Quad acquired in 1989).
He is a graduate of the Electrical Apprenticeship Program at Macon Technical College and the Business Management Program at Southern Crescent Technical College.
Over the years, Jeff has been active in his community, including serving on the board of directors (among other boards) at Southern Crescent Technical College. A native of Thomaston, he has also served on several Upson County boards including the High School Graphics Arts Advisory Board.
Jeff said he looks forward to spending time with his wife, family and especially his grandchildren, and on the golf course as well as camping.
Boggs Awarded $180,000 Navy Scholarship
Nathan Boggs (center) holds a ceremonial scholarship check beside his parents. L-R: UL NJROTC Senior Chief Shane Waller; Beth, Nathan, and Edward Boggs; UL NJROTC CDR James Jarvis.
Published 3-4-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Cadet Commander Nathan Boggs of the Upson Lee High School NJROTC’s 2021 class was recently awarded a four-year, full-ride Navy National Scholarship valued at $180,000. Boggs was also awarded an additional $44,000 scholarship to Auburn University and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering. After graduating from Auburn, Boggs will be commissioned as an ensign officer in the U.S. Navy.
“This is nothing short of phenomenal,” said Navy Recruiting Officer Lt. Daly during the presentation of Boggs’ scholarship check.
An award ceremony was held at Upson Lee High where Boggs was celebrated among his parents Edward and Beth Boggs, classmates, teachers, and school administration. Boggs received a ceremonial scholarship check by Lt. Daly and Petty Officer Duffin.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Cadet Commander Nathan Boggs of the Upson Lee High School NJROTC’s 2021 class was recently awarded a four-year, full-ride Navy National Scholarship valued at $180,000. Boggs was also awarded an additional $44,000 scholarship to Auburn University and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering. After graduating from Auburn, Boggs will be commissioned as an ensign officer in the U.S. Navy.
“This is nothing short of phenomenal,” said Navy Recruiting Officer Lt. Daly during the presentation of Boggs’ scholarship check.
An award ceremony was held at Upson Lee High where Boggs was celebrated among his parents Edward and Beth Boggs, classmates, teachers, and school administration. Boggs received a ceremonial scholarship check by Lt. Daly and Petty Officer Duffin.
Michael Presley Retires from GDOT
Michael Presley
Published 3-4-2021
After 27 years of service at the Georgia Department of Transportation, West Central Georgia region District Engineer Michael Presley is retiring from the department. His retirement was effective as of Monday, March 1, 2021.
Presley, a native of Locust Grove and longtime Upson resident, graduated from Southern College of Technology in 1992 and is a licensed professional engineer in both Georgia and Alabama. In his time at GDOT, he has served in multiple positions, including planning engineer for the NaviGAtor system during the 1996 Olympic Games and District 3 traffic operations manager. He was named the district engineer for the West Central region in 2015.
As district engineer, Presley was responsible for 522 personnel across 31 counties. Under his leadership, District 3 administered and has produced several highly impactful projects including the I-75 express lanes in Henry County, the implementation of the Fall Line Freeway and the I-16/I-75 interchange in Bibb County.
Presley directed District 3 to be the first region to install and administer a traffic management center outside of Atlanta. He is well-known for his support of innovative intersections and improved signal operations, which have made West Central Georgia a model for other regions and municipalities across the state.
Presley is known for his forward-focused, innovative programs and projects. He authored several white papers and presented at multiple conferences for industry organizations including the Intelligent Transportation Society of America and the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) World Congress. In 2020 he was honored with the Carl Bevins Distinguished Service Award from the Georgia Institute of Transportation Engineers for his support of progressive traffic operations throughout his career.
"It's an honor to have served as district engineer," says Michael Presley. "It wasn't just a career for me, it was a calling. Now that I'm retiring, I'm following another calling. I'll never stop being proud of the team we built at District 3 and their potential as they continue to move forward."
After 27 years of service at the Georgia Department of Transportation, West Central Georgia region District Engineer Michael Presley is retiring from the department. His retirement was effective as of Monday, March 1, 2021.
Presley, a native of Locust Grove and longtime Upson resident, graduated from Southern College of Technology in 1992 and is a licensed professional engineer in both Georgia and Alabama. In his time at GDOT, he has served in multiple positions, including planning engineer for the NaviGAtor system during the 1996 Olympic Games and District 3 traffic operations manager. He was named the district engineer for the West Central region in 2015.
As district engineer, Presley was responsible for 522 personnel across 31 counties. Under his leadership, District 3 administered and has produced several highly impactful projects including the I-75 express lanes in Henry County, the implementation of the Fall Line Freeway and the I-16/I-75 interchange in Bibb County.
Presley directed District 3 to be the first region to install and administer a traffic management center outside of Atlanta. He is well-known for his support of innovative intersections and improved signal operations, which have made West Central Georgia a model for other regions and municipalities across the state.
Presley is known for his forward-focused, innovative programs and projects. He authored several white papers and presented at multiple conferences for industry organizations including the Intelligent Transportation Society of America and the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) World Congress. In 2020 he was honored with the Carl Bevins Distinguished Service Award from the Georgia Institute of Transportation Engineers for his support of progressive traffic operations throughout his career.
"It's an honor to have served as district engineer," says Michael Presley. "It wasn't just a career for me, it was a calling. Now that I'm retiring, I'm following another calling. I'll never stop being proud of the team we built at District 3 and their potential as they continue to move forward."
Boy Scouts Thank Local Healthcare Workers
“Tiger Cubs” from local Boy Scout Troop 25 chose both Community Ambulance of Thomaston and Upson County Health Department as recipients of the troop’s community appreciation service project for 2021.
Scouts created “Thank You” cards for the healthcare workers and presented them just days before Valentine’s Day.
“We are grateful for their hard work and dedication at all times, but especially now, working amidst a pandemic,” commented Troop Mom Shelley Hendricks.
Scouts created “Thank You” cards for the healthcare workers and presented them just days before Valentine’s Day.
“We are grateful for their hard work and dedication at all times, but especially now, working amidst a pandemic,” commented Troop Mom Shelley Hendricks.
Ole Molly Finds Her Forever Home
TFD Welcomes Thomaston’s Original 1927 Fire Truck
Jeff Sanders rings Ole Molly’s Bell once again.
Published 2-18-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
After more than three long decades of traveling into what seemed to be a hopeless rabbit hole, Jeff Sanders stood proud last week as “Ole Molly,” a 1927 American LaFrance fire truck, was transported back to Thomaston Fire Department, the home it left nearly 55 years ago.
The antique fire truck, which has been ornamentally displayed at The Rock Ranch since 2011, first made its appearance in Thomaston in 1928, then brand new, and served the Thomaston Fire Department until 1966, long after additional trucks had been acquired.
Originally delivered to town with Firestone tires, acceptance was refused and the truck was sent back to Elmira, N.Y., where BF Goodrich/Silvertown tires were installed before transporting Molly back to Thomaston via train.
Thomaston Fire Chief Renee Harris, who has been with the TFD since 1985, said Ole Molly will be situated in its own bay, most likely in the same area as the reserve engines, once the new TFD is completed.
“In a few years, that truck will be 100 years old,” commented Harris. “I’m so excited to have this piece of history back at the TFD and am so thankful to Mr. Cathy for purchasing and donating it back to the department.”
Jeff Sanders has admired the bright red beauty his entire life, often remembering the sight of his father and other firefighters battle many a blaze while riding atop the type 112 engine.
As a child, Sanders was known to act out and throw temper tantrums during school, although that all changed when former fire Chief C.W. McDaniel informed Sanders that he would never ride on a fire truck or enter McDaniel’s station if he continued to act up. McDaniel’s words made a difference, for Sanders became well behaved and was congratulated with an early-morning ride to school on his favorite firetruck, ringing the bell the entire way.
In 1962, Molly was retired and placed in “Parade Status,” as she was to remain unless there was a large fire where additional trucks may be called upon. The short parade status came to a pause in 1966 when Molly assisted TFD in what is believed to be Thomaston’s worst fire in more than 30 years.
After a tank overflowed during a gas delivery at Britt Oil Company, a massive explosion and fire engulfed much of the area. On her final call, Molly pumped 800 gallons of water per minute for hours and “never missed a beat.”
Molly was sold to Tom Carson in October 1966, but after several additional sales, Sanders lost track of Molly’s location. In 1988, Sanders’ father told him to bring her back “where she belongs.”
Sanders spent years making calls, reading newspapers, doing anything he could to find Ole Molly. Before his father’s passing, he encouraged Sanders to keep hunting, leaving a piece of advice: “Don’t ever give up. You just might miss out on a blessing if you do.”
In 2010, the blessing was received.
Concluding a multi-decade search, Sanders received a phone call from an over-eager Russ McGee, excitedly urging Sanders to check his email.
Hesitant to open the online Fox News link entitled, “Old Red Fire Truck Looking for a Home,” Sanders began to read, finding notation that the 1927 fire truck was built for Thomaston, and he was determined to bring Molly home.
Although the truck was for sale, the price was three times the actual value of the truck, far above the means of Sanders or the City of Thomaston. Hopeful that the late Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A and The Rock Ranch, would find interest in the project, Sanders enlisted the help of friend Jeff Manley, former manager of The Rock Ranch, who brought word to Cathy.
Being a fan of antique fire trucks, Cathy wanted to help, but gave instruction to “get the price down.”
After months of careful negotiation, a selling price was agreed upon and Cathy purchased the truck, donating it to the City of Thomaston in appreciation of the support the ranch regularly received from the community, allowing it to be held at the ranch until proper space was created at the TFD.
Molly made her way to Upson County in 2011, welcomed by a group of tough, emotional firemen. “It was as quiet as a church,” Manley once said. Molly sat on display at The Rock Ranch since 2011, only being used a few times for celebrations like a retirement parade for former City of Griffin Fire Chief Rickerson in August 2020.
As The Rock Ranch property is currently undergoing changes in ownership and the TFD begins preparation for a new fire station, Ole Molly rolled into the current TFD at 2:35 p.m. last Tuesday on Goodrich Silvertown Tires, 2011 replicas of the original BF Goodrich Silvertown Chord Tires that were made in Thomaston’s Martha Mill.
With 3,536 original miles, Ole Molly is proudly situated in the TFD until completion of the new TFD, where she will be permanently parked and displayed in her own truck bay.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
After more than three long decades of traveling into what seemed to be a hopeless rabbit hole, Jeff Sanders stood proud last week as “Ole Molly,” a 1927 American LaFrance fire truck, was transported back to Thomaston Fire Department, the home it left nearly 55 years ago.
The antique fire truck, which has been ornamentally displayed at The Rock Ranch since 2011, first made its appearance in Thomaston in 1928, then brand new, and served the Thomaston Fire Department until 1966, long after additional trucks had been acquired.
Originally delivered to town with Firestone tires, acceptance was refused and the truck was sent back to Elmira, N.Y., where BF Goodrich/Silvertown tires were installed before transporting Molly back to Thomaston via train.
Thomaston Fire Chief Renee Harris, who has been with the TFD since 1985, said Ole Molly will be situated in its own bay, most likely in the same area as the reserve engines, once the new TFD is completed.
“In a few years, that truck will be 100 years old,” commented Harris. “I’m so excited to have this piece of history back at the TFD and am so thankful to Mr. Cathy for purchasing and donating it back to the department.”
Jeff Sanders has admired the bright red beauty his entire life, often remembering the sight of his father and other firefighters battle many a blaze while riding atop the type 112 engine.
As a child, Sanders was known to act out and throw temper tantrums during school, although that all changed when former fire Chief C.W. McDaniel informed Sanders that he would never ride on a fire truck or enter McDaniel’s station if he continued to act up. McDaniel’s words made a difference, for Sanders became well behaved and was congratulated with an early-morning ride to school on his favorite firetruck, ringing the bell the entire way.
In 1962, Molly was retired and placed in “Parade Status,” as she was to remain unless there was a large fire where additional trucks may be called upon. The short parade status came to a pause in 1966 when Molly assisted TFD in what is believed to be Thomaston’s worst fire in more than 30 years.
After a tank overflowed during a gas delivery at Britt Oil Company, a massive explosion and fire engulfed much of the area. On her final call, Molly pumped 800 gallons of water per minute for hours and “never missed a beat.”
Molly was sold to Tom Carson in October 1966, but after several additional sales, Sanders lost track of Molly’s location. In 1988, Sanders’ father told him to bring her back “where she belongs.”
Sanders spent years making calls, reading newspapers, doing anything he could to find Ole Molly. Before his father’s passing, he encouraged Sanders to keep hunting, leaving a piece of advice: “Don’t ever give up. You just might miss out on a blessing if you do.”
In 2010, the blessing was received.
Concluding a multi-decade search, Sanders received a phone call from an over-eager Russ McGee, excitedly urging Sanders to check his email.
Hesitant to open the online Fox News link entitled, “Old Red Fire Truck Looking for a Home,” Sanders began to read, finding notation that the 1927 fire truck was built for Thomaston, and he was determined to bring Molly home.
Although the truck was for sale, the price was three times the actual value of the truck, far above the means of Sanders or the City of Thomaston. Hopeful that the late Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A and The Rock Ranch, would find interest in the project, Sanders enlisted the help of friend Jeff Manley, former manager of The Rock Ranch, who brought word to Cathy.
Being a fan of antique fire trucks, Cathy wanted to help, but gave instruction to “get the price down.”
After months of careful negotiation, a selling price was agreed upon and Cathy purchased the truck, donating it to the City of Thomaston in appreciation of the support the ranch regularly received from the community, allowing it to be held at the ranch until proper space was created at the TFD.
Molly made her way to Upson County in 2011, welcomed by a group of tough, emotional firemen. “It was as quiet as a church,” Manley once said. Molly sat on display at The Rock Ranch since 2011, only being used a few times for celebrations like a retirement parade for former City of Griffin Fire Chief Rickerson in August 2020.
As The Rock Ranch property is currently undergoing changes in ownership and the TFD begins preparation for a new fire station, Ole Molly rolled into the current TFD at 2:35 p.m. last Tuesday on Goodrich Silvertown Tires, 2011 replicas of the original BF Goodrich Silvertown Chord Tires that were made in Thomaston’s Martha Mill.
With 3,536 original miles, Ole Molly is proudly situated in the TFD until completion of the new TFD, where she will be permanently parked and displayed in her own truck bay.
Upson Native Paves Way for Mentee after Tragic Fire
Published 2-18-2021. Upson County Native Zac Hendrix jumped to action after his 12-year-old mentee, Taeden Johnson, lost his mother, sister, and grandmother in a tragic house fire on Jan. 27. Hendrix has since spread awareness across the nation, making national headlines while he coordinated a GoFundMe page that has raised more than a quarter million dollars, accompanied Johnson to Superbowl LV, and assisted Taeden with any need. See the full story in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
No New Cases Reported at Nursing Homes
Published 2-18-2021
Upson County reports 3,149 positive COVID-19 cases with 107 deaths as of noon last Tuesday, according to the Johns Hopkins University & Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center.
Numbers reflect 60 new cases (down from 78 last week) and two new deaths (down from five last week) since Tuesday one week prior. During that time, Upson’s per capita infection rate increased from 11.8 cases per 100 residents to 12 cases per 100 residents, more than 1-in-10. Pike County, at 10.5 per 100 residents, is the only Upson-adjacent county exceeding 1-in-10 infection rate.
A consensus of online sources report Georgia with 942,484 (up 22,706 for the week) positive cases and 15,451 (up 772 for the week) deaths as of noon last Tuesday.
Johns Hopkins lists the following confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson: Monroe, 2,247 (up 45) cases with 86 (up three) deaths; Pike, 1,964 (up 46) with 30 (up one) deaths; Lamar, 1,808 (up 29) with 43 (up one) deaths; Meriwether, 1,789 (up 50) with 49 (up 10) deaths; Taylor, 732 (up 10) with 22 (no change) deaths; Crawford, 599 (up nine) with 13 (no change) deaths; and Talbot, 432 (up eight) with 15 (up two) deaths.
Total number of positive cases reported among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence, and Riverside) is 316 (no change in resident or staff cases) during the same period, with 53 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (103 residents/102 tested) with 92 resident cases (no change), 71 resident recoveries, 34 staff cases (no change), and 21 resident deaths (no change). Providence (78 residents/82 tested) reports 67 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 34 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (56 residents/115 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 30 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from one week ago.
The Centers for Disease Control continues to recommend 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.
Upson County reports 3,149 positive COVID-19 cases with 107 deaths as of noon last Tuesday, according to the Johns Hopkins University & Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center.
Numbers reflect 60 new cases (down from 78 last week) and two new deaths (down from five last week) since Tuesday one week prior. During that time, Upson’s per capita infection rate increased from 11.8 cases per 100 residents to 12 cases per 100 residents, more than 1-in-10. Pike County, at 10.5 per 100 residents, is the only Upson-adjacent county exceeding 1-in-10 infection rate.
A consensus of online sources report Georgia with 942,484 (up 22,706 for the week) positive cases and 15,451 (up 772 for the week) deaths as of noon last Tuesday.
Johns Hopkins lists the following confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson: Monroe, 2,247 (up 45) cases with 86 (up three) deaths; Pike, 1,964 (up 46) with 30 (up one) deaths; Lamar, 1,808 (up 29) with 43 (up one) deaths; Meriwether, 1,789 (up 50) with 49 (up 10) deaths; Taylor, 732 (up 10) with 22 (no change) deaths; Crawford, 599 (up nine) with 13 (no change) deaths; and Talbot, 432 (up eight) with 15 (up two) deaths.
Total number of positive cases reported among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence, and Riverside) is 316 (no change in resident or staff cases) during the same period, with 53 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (103 residents/102 tested) with 92 resident cases (no change), 71 resident recoveries, 34 staff cases (no change), and 21 resident deaths (no change). Providence (78 residents/82 tested) reports 67 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 34 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (56 residents/115 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 30 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from one week ago.
The Centers for Disease Control continues to recommend 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.
Completing Nearly 5 Decades, Rex King Retires
After 47 Years in Ministry, King is ‘Immensely Blessed’
Dr. Rex King
Published 2-11-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The boisterous echoes of Dr. Rex King’s expressive, broadcaster-like voice, which filled the sanctuary of Mountain View Baptist Church for the past 43 years, will soon diminish as King retires on Feb. 14. King, who began a pastoral transition a year and a half ago, welcomes Ryan Christopher, incoming senior pastor, into the pulpit. Members of the congregation celebrated King’s tenure this past Sunday.
Although King spent the majority of his years in ministry at 2569 Jeff Davis Road, his calling came several years earlier.
Growing up, King dreamed of being a radio broadcaster and began working at WSFT during high school. After obtaining two degrees in engineering, his dreams had not faded and he returned to WSFT as a disc jockey.
“The Lord called me to preach and it all changed,” said King. The first 16 years of King’s ministry were also spent utilizing his degrees while working at William’s Car Company.
King tells the Upson Beacon that he felt God’s calling to ministry during his early 20s. “Mountain View offered me a youth position when I was 26,” commented King. “After a little more than a year, the associate pastor at Clark’s Chapel got sick and, having been ordained, I stepped in as the associate pastor during 1976 and ‘77.”
King returned to Mountain View as senior pastor in 1978 and has witnessed growth in every area of the church since. “I watched God grow it,” said King. “It was a very small church back then with a congregation of about 60 each Sunday.”
Since King stepped in as senior pastor, he has been “blessed immensely,” to watch Mountain View grow from a “small, country church.” During King’s tenure, Mountain View experienced six major building programs including additions of a new sanctuary, youth facility, gymnasium, office and classroom spaces, and a family/life center. Church membership has grown from 60 to roughly 2,000, which King notes is “quite remarkable.”
In the last 43 years, 4,300 individuals have joined Mountain View, either by letter or statement, or through the acceptance of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Mountain View currently houses six pastors, as well as several ministers.
King shares the “Word of the Lord,” with multitudes through his sermons, which are also broadcast every Sunday morning on Fun 101 FM, and has been a crucial piece of the continual growth of Mountain View.
“We’ve probably been broadcasting the church service for 30 years. One day, Mr. Tommy Joe Smith told me, ‘we are going to put you on the radio,’ and he began taping the service and paid for the entire thing for over 25 years.” King’s sermons generally air on Fun 101 a week after being taped.
As King steps into retirement, he tells the Upson Beacon that he does not have many plans. “I may fill in if a church needs it,” commented King. “I’ve been working six to seven days a week since I was out of school… It will be different.”
King jokingly added, “I guess I’ll be trying to stay away from my wife, because I’m sure she’ll find something for me to do.”
In his final days as senior pastor of Mountain View Baptist Church, King states, “I want the community to know how much of a blessing this has been. [The community] has been very receptive to the radio broadcasting service. I’m blessed to serve this community and my Lord and appreciate all that people have done for the church.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The boisterous echoes of Dr. Rex King’s expressive, broadcaster-like voice, which filled the sanctuary of Mountain View Baptist Church for the past 43 years, will soon diminish as King retires on Feb. 14. King, who began a pastoral transition a year and a half ago, welcomes Ryan Christopher, incoming senior pastor, into the pulpit. Members of the congregation celebrated King’s tenure this past Sunday.
Although King spent the majority of his years in ministry at 2569 Jeff Davis Road, his calling came several years earlier.
Growing up, King dreamed of being a radio broadcaster and began working at WSFT during high school. After obtaining two degrees in engineering, his dreams had not faded and he returned to WSFT as a disc jockey.
“The Lord called me to preach and it all changed,” said King. The first 16 years of King’s ministry were also spent utilizing his degrees while working at William’s Car Company.
King tells the Upson Beacon that he felt God’s calling to ministry during his early 20s. “Mountain View offered me a youth position when I was 26,” commented King. “After a little more than a year, the associate pastor at Clark’s Chapel got sick and, having been ordained, I stepped in as the associate pastor during 1976 and ‘77.”
King returned to Mountain View as senior pastor in 1978 and has witnessed growth in every area of the church since. “I watched God grow it,” said King. “It was a very small church back then with a congregation of about 60 each Sunday.”
Since King stepped in as senior pastor, he has been “blessed immensely,” to watch Mountain View grow from a “small, country church.” During King’s tenure, Mountain View experienced six major building programs including additions of a new sanctuary, youth facility, gymnasium, office and classroom spaces, and a family/life center. Church membership has grown from 60 to roughly 2,000, which King notes is “quite remarkable.”
In the last 43 years, 4,300 individuals have joined Mountain View, either by letter or statement, or through the acceptance of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Mountain View currently houses six pastors, as well as several ministers.
King shares the “Word of the Lord,” with multitudes through his sermons, which are also broadcast every Sunday morning on Fun 101 FM, and has been a crucial piece of the continual growth of Mountain View.
“We’ve probably been broadcasting the church service for 30 years. One day, Mr. Tommy Joe Smith told me, ‘we are going to put you on the radio,’ and he began taping the service and paid for the entire thing for over 25 years.” King’s sermons generally air on Fun 101 a week after being taped.
As King steps into retirement, he tells the Upson Beacon that he does not have many plans. “I may fill in if a church needs it,” commented King. “I’ve been working six to seven days a week since I was out of school… It will be different.”
King jokingly added, “I guess I’ll be trying to stay away from my wife, because I’m sure she’ll find something for me to do.”
In his final days as senior pastor of Mountain View Baptist Church, King states, “I want the community to know how much of a blessing this has been. [The community] has been very receptive to the radio broadcasting service. I’m blessed to serve this community and my Lord and appreciate all that people have done for the church.”
‘Do Good by My House’
1920s Shotgun House Preserves Upson’s Black History
The African American Museum sits in a 100-plus-year-old shotgun house. The shotgun house is called so because one can fire a shotgun through the front door and the bullet would fly out the back door without hitting anything.
Published 2-11-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Along the south side of Joe White Street sits a quaint and sturdy shotgun house of simple demeanor, yet the tale of this 1920s residence represents much more than the 595 square feet inside.
More than 100 years ago, Frances Walker began settling into her three-room shotgun house on King’s Avenue. At the time, Walker had no idea that her humble three-room home would later be preserved and serve her community as the Thomaston-Upson African American Museum.
In 1994, the City of Thomaston received a Community Development Block Grant from the Department of Community Affairs to revitalize the Bethel Street community, which included phases of acquisition, relocation, demolition, reconstruction, and infrastructure.
At the time, the Bethel Street community consisted of many shotgun houses, some in better condition than others. During the acquisition process, one provision noted a shotgun house would be saved for historic preservation and Walker’s house was chosen because of its “mint condition.” Walker and her family lived in the home for about 70 years.
It was decided that the home would serve as a museum for African American history of Thomaston and Upson County. The late Lorraine Drake was a member of the Upson Historical Society at the time and is said to have spearheaded the project.
Walker, born in 1902, grew up on Barnesville Highway and started working at the age of seven, picking cotton. Walker lived with her husband and son, making a living as a laundress using a washtub, washboard, and smoothing iron. Her home had no electricity, water spigot, or bathroom.
Known to be quite thrifty, Walker did all of her own repair work, including electrical improvements. It is said that Walker was often seen carrying pasteboard inside, which she painted white and used as interior wall coverings. Today, the original wall planking remains.
Originally located on King’s Avenue, Walker’s former home was moved to its current location on Joe White Street, formerly Cedar Row, where renovations were made. To bring the humble abode up to code, improvements made included enclosing the bathroom; handicap accessibility was installed; new roofing, plumbing, heating and air, and wiring was installed.
The home was first opened to the public in 1996 and continual progress was made for about two years. Walker passed away Nov. 15, 1997 and left the community with a mission to “Do good by my home.”
The T-U African American Museum officially opened in 1998. The historical society collected memorabilia and many local artifacts, included pieces of Walker’s furnishings like a trunk, metal frame bed, handmade quilts, a smoothing iron, and a Singer sewing machine.
By 2010, the museum had become over-filled and Historical Society Member Barbara Worthy was asked to became a part of a revitalization team with a goal to reorganize and get the museum into “presentable shape.” Worthy, along with nine others, went in to revitalize the museum and return unnecessary donations. “We had too many donations of artifacts. Old isn’t necessarily an artifact and a lot of things were out of place… The nine of us cleaned up, sent some things back, and got the museum whipped into shape,” said Worthy. A formal dedication was held at the museum in 2012.
Inside of the museum, one enters through the front door to find a display case of Drake High graduates, a notebook of demolished homes, and trophies. Above the case hangs photos of prominent black members of Upson County and many former principals from around the county.
Upon entering the middle and back rooms, visitors are welcomed by many of Walker’s original furnishings and other artifacts generally found in shotgun houses of the 1920s.
The museum generally opens four times a year, although the COVID-19 pandemic has limited touring opportunities. Worthy said anyone wishing to see the museum can contact her at 706-647-5786 to schedule an appointment between late spring and early fall.
Worthy says she is “happy to accommodate” anyone who wants a tour, but that only groups of 10 or less can comfortably move about the museum at once. Worthy said she hopes to reopen under the regular schedule in 2022.
The African American Museum Board, which started as a seven-member board, now consists of a four-member board that includes Patrick Allen, Barbara worthy, Kay King, and Paul Harper, although King and Harper are currently inactive due to illness.
The museum is located at 406 Joe White Street and is seeking monetary donations.
“We were focused on fundraising before the pandemic hit and are always looking for donations,” said Worthy. “Anyone who wants to donate can send a check to the Upson Historical Society for the African American Museum.”
Worthy notes that the society does not have any additional space for artifact donations.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Along the south side of Joe White Street sits a quaint and sturdy shotgun house of simple demeanor, yet the tale of this 1920s residence represents much more than the 595 square feet inside.
More than 100 years ago, Frances Walker began settling into her three-room shotgun house on King’s Avenue. At the time, Walker had no idea that her humble three-room home would later be preserved and serve her community as the Thomaston-Upson African American Museum.
In 1994, the City of Thomaston received a Community Development Block Grant from the Department of Community Affairs to revitalize the Bethel Street community, which included phases of acquisition, relocation, demolition, reconstruction, and infrastructure.
At the time, the Bethel Street community consisted of many shotgun houses, some in better condition than others. During the acquisition process, one provision noted a shotgun house would be saved for historic preservation and Walker’s house was chosen because of its “mint condition.” Walker and her family lived in the home for about 70 years.
It was decided that the home would serve as a museum for African American history of Thomaston and Upson County. The late Lorraine Drake was a member of the Upson Historical Society at the time and is said to have spearheaded the project.
Walker, born in 1902, grew up on Barnesville Highway and started working at the age of seven, picking cotton. Walker lived with her husband and son, making a living as a laundress using a washtub, washboard, and smoothing iron. Her home had no electricity, water spigot, or bathroom.
Known to be quite thrifty, Walker did all of her own repair work, including electrical improvements. It is said that Walker was often seen carrying pasteboard inside, which she painted white and used as interior wall coverings. Today, the original wall planking remains.
Originally located on King’s Avenue, Walker’s former home was moved to its current location on Joe White Street, formerly Cedar Row, where renovations were made. To bring the humble abode up to code, improvements made included enclosing the bathroom; handicap accessibility was installed; new roofing, plumbing, heating and air, and wiring was installed.
The home was first opened to the public in 1996 and continual progress was made for about two years. Walker passed away Nov. 15, 1997 and left the community with a mission to “Do good by my home.”
The T-U African American Museum officially opened in 1998. The historical society collected memorabilia and many local artifacts, included pieces of Walker’s furnishings like a trunk, metal frame bed, handmade quilts, a smoothing iron, and a Singer sewing machine.
By 2010, the museum had become over-filled and Historical Society Member Barbara Worthy was asked to became a part of a revitalization team with a goal to reorganize and get the museum into “presentable shape.” Worthy, along with nine others, went in to revitalize the museum and return unnecessary donations. “We had too many donations of artifacts. Old isn’t necessarily an artifact and a lot of things were out of place… The nine of us cleaned up, sent some things back, and got the museum whipped into shape,” said Worthy. A formal dedication was held at the museum in 2012.
Inside of the museum, one enters through the front door to find a display case of Drake High graduates, a notebook of demolished homes, and trophies. Above the case hangs photos of prominent black members of Upson County and many former principals from around the county.
Upon entering the middle and back rooms, visitors are welcomed by many of Walker’s original furnishings and other artifacts generally found in shotgun houses of the 1920s.
The museum generally opens four times a year, although the COVID-19 pandemic has limited touring opportunities. Worthy said anyone wishing to see the museum can contact her at 706-647-5786 to schedule an appointment between late spring and early fall.
Worthy says she is “happy to accommodate” anyone who wants a tour, but that only groups of 10 or less can comfortably move about the museum at once. Worthy said she hopes to reopen under the regular schedule in 2022.
The African American Museum Board, which started as a seven-member board, now consists of a four-member board that includes Patrick Allen, Barbara worthy, Kay King, and Paul Harper, although King and Harper are currently inactive due to illness.
The museum is located at 406 Joe White Street and is seeking monetary donations.
“We were focused on fundraising before the pandemic hit and are always looking for donations,” said Worthy. “Anyone who wants to donate can send a check to the Upson Historical Society for the African American Museum.”
Worthy notes that the society does not have any additional space for artifact donations.
A fireplace sits between the second and third rooms of the museum. Through the fireplace opening, Frances Walker’s metal frame bed and handmade quilt are visible.
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Above, one of the displays inside of the museum showcases items commonly used for cooking, including a woodburning stove and cast-iron skillets.
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4-Year-Old Dean Provides a Helping Hand
Bruce Dean, dressed for work, is shown standing beside his sidekick “Hoss.”
Published 2-11-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
For more than three months, residents of Upson’s Eastside Drive have not had to worry about retrieving their outdoor trash bins, often wondering how the bins “magically” reappeared at their houses each week after scheduled pickups.
By now, neighbors have become accustomed to seeing little Bruce Dean contributing to his neighborhood and look forward to his smiling face making way down their driveways.
“It is the sweetest thing,” said neighbor Ruth Hatchett. “Even last week when it was so cold and windy, he still got out so that we wouldn’t have to.”
Last October, Bruce decided he wanted to help others and asked his parents to help him assist those in the neighborhood. He leads the way across his neighborhood each week, sporting his yellow hard hat, neon safety vest, and sturdy work boots, while his parents Ben and Rachel Dean, and his dog “Hoss,” follow along for assistance. Although the four-year-old struggles to reach the handles, once mom lowers the bin, nothing can stand in the way of his mission to help others.
When asked why he started helping his neighbors, Bruce said it was, “because I like to work and help people like my daddy and I like to ride on the side of the car like a trash man,” while Rachel assured that he only gets to ride on the side of her car when in their driveway.
Rachel said that Bruce plans to continue with his mission. “He has looked forward to it since,” commented Rachel, “and has only complained a few times, which gave us the opportunity to teach him the importance of helping others.”
In addition to taking waste bins from the road, Dean has assisted several elderly neighbors by bringing their mail from the mailbox to the front door and offering a hug. “He even tells you he loves you before he leaves,” commented Hatchett.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
For more than three months, residents of Upson’s Eastside Drive have not had to worry about retrieving their outdoor trash bins, often wondering how the bins “magically” reappeared at their houses each week after scheduled pickups.
By now, neighbors have become accustomed to seeing little Bruce Dean contributing to his neighborhood and look forward to his smiling face making way down their driveways.
“It is the sweetest thing,” said neighbor Ruth Hatchett. “Even last week when it was so cold and windy, he still got out so that we wouldn’t have to.”
Last October, Bruce decided he wanted to help others and asked his parents to help him assist those in the neighborhood. He leads the way across his neighborhood each week, sporting his yellow hard hat, neon safety vest, and sturdy work boots, while his parents Ben and Rachel Dean, and his dog “Hoss,” follow along for assistance. Although the four-year-old struggles to reach the handles, once mom lowers the bin, nothing can stand in the way of his mission to help others.
When asked why he started helping his neighbors, Bruce said it was, “because I like to work and help people like my daddy and I like to ride on the side of the car like a trash man,” while Rachel assured that he only gets to ride on the side of her car when in their driveway.
Rachel said that Bruce plans to continue with his mission. “He has looked forward to it since,” commented Rachel, “and has only complained a few times, which gave us the opportunity to teach him the importance of helping others.”
In addition to taking waste bins from the road, Dean has assisted several elderly neighbors by bringing their mail from the mailbox to the front door and offering a hug. “He even tells you he loves you before he leaves,” commented Hatchett.
Betsy Stewart Nominated for
National LifeChanger of the Year Award
Published 2-4-2021
Upson-Lee Primary School first grade teacher Betsy Stewart has been nominated for the 2020-2021 national LifeChanger of the Year award, according to the Stryker-Munley Group. Stewart's nominator would like to remain anonymous.
“Ms. Stewart's one of the greatest humans on the planet,” her nominator said. “It's a popular belief in Thomaston that she is one of the best first grade teachers on the planet, as well.
“Many parents wish for their children to be in her class every year. They realize how great of an impact she makes on her students' lives. She calls her students her kids and treats them as such. The impact she has on her community is apparent… [the kids] don't want to leave her class."
"I truly believe Betsy is a LifeChanger because she puts everyone before herself," her nominator continued. "Her family, students, coworkers, and church members all see the sacrifices she makes and how hard she works without ever asking for recognition. I know that it would mean the world to her to feel like someone appreciates her."
“I am no more special than the countless teachers in our system,” Stewart told the Upson Beacon. “I am very blessed to work with a lot of awesome, amazing teachers… I just want to inspire people to keep pushing when the odds are stacked against you.”
Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Eighteen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2020-2021 school year:
• (1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $10,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (4) Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (10) LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (1) Spirit Award Winner – This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (1) Capstone Award Winner - This award is given to a nominee retiring at the end of the 2019-20 school year. The winner will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school or district.
• (1) Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. For 2020-21, the Spotlight Award will be given to a nominee who has gone above and beyond to educate remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must:
• Make a positive impact in the lives of students.
• Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride.
• Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level.
• Possess a proven record of professional excellence.
• Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning.
• Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards.
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/.
To view Stewart’s LifeChanger of the Year nominee profiles, or to nominate someone, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.
Upson-Lee Primary School first grade teacher Betsy Stewart has been nominated for the 2020-2021 national LifeChanger of the Year award, according to the Stryker-Munley Group. Stewart's nominator would like to remain anonymous.
“Ms. Stewart's one of the greatest humans on the planet,” her nominator said. “It's a popular belief in Thomaston that she is one of the best first grade teachers on the planet, as well.
“Many parents wish for their children to be in her class every year. They realize how great of an impact she makes on her students' lives. She calls her students her kids and treats them as such. The impact she has on her community is apparent… [the kids] don't want to leave her class."
"I truly believe Betsy is a LifeChanger because she puts everyone before herself," her nominator continued. "Her family, students, coworkers, and church members all see the sacrifices she makes and how hard she works without ever asking for recognition. I know that it would mean the world to her to feel like someone appreciates her."
“I am no more special than the countless teachers in our system,” Stewart told the Upson Beacon. “I am very blessed to work with a lot of awesome, amazing teachers… I just want to inspire people to keep pushing when the odds are stacked against you.”
Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Eighteen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2020-2021 school year:
• (1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $10,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (4) Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (10) LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (1) Spirit Award Winner – This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
• (1) Capstone Award Winner - This award is given to a nominee retiring at the end of the 2019-20 school year. The winner will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school or district.
• (1) Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. For 2020-21, the Spotlight Award will be given to a nominee who has gone above and beyond to educate remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must:
• Make a positive impact in the lives of students.
• Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride.
• Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level.
• Possess a proven record of professional excellence.
• Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning.
• Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards.
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/.
To view Stewart’s LifeChanger of the Year nominee profiles, or to nominate someone, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.
Pickin’ Up The Problem
Community Cleanup Set Saturday
In two hours, the Price family collected more than 30 bags of debris.
Published 2-4-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Several Upson residents decided that “enough is enough” and have begun cleaning litter off the sides of county roads, while encouraging others to join the upcoming community-wide litter cleanup.
After seeing immense amounts of litter on the city and county roads, Lisa Price rounded up her family and got to work. “I can’t complain about it if I’m not going to get out and clean it up,” said Price.
Mark and Lisa Price wish to remind others to care for their hometown and implore anyone noticing litter in the community to get out and be a part of the change through “adopting” their own stretch of road to clean.
Four members of the Price family worked Saturday to clean litter from the county sign on the south side of Hannah’s Mill road to Potato Creek Bridge, collecting more than 30 bags of trash in two hours. Others, including Cathy Ashberry, Leisa Stewart, and Roger Pinion, cleaned around various roads in the Thomaston city limits. “This is our home and if we’re not going to take care of it, who is?” asked Mark Price.
A community Cleanup has been tentatively scheduled for Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon in Matthews Field Parking Lot, dependent on weather. Volunteers are needed and supplies will be provided. After gathering at Matthews Field, volunteers will be assigned sections of city and county roads for cleanup.
A possible rain delay for the community cleanup will be announced on the Facebook event group, but was not available by press time. For more information, visit the event group on Facebook at https://fb.me/e/bsooi3LvN.
The cleanup event is sponsored by Heart & Soul, T-U Chamber of Commerce, Upson County, the City of Thomaston, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department, and Green for Life.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Several Upson residents decided that “enough is enough” and have begun cleaning litter off the sides of county roads, while encouraging others to join the upcoming community-wide litter cleanup.
After seeing immense amounts of litter on the city and county roads, Lisa Price rounded up her family and got to work. “I can’t complain about it if I’m not going to get out and clean it up,” said Price.
Mark and Lisa Price wish to remind others to care for their hometown and implore anyone noticing litter in the community to get out and be a part of the change through “adopting” their own stretch of road to clean.
Four members of the Price family worked Saturday to clean litter from the county sign on the south side of Hannah’s Mill road to Potato Creek Bridge, collecting more than 30 bags of trash in two hours. Others, including Cathy Ashberry, Leisa Stewart, and Roger Pinion, cleaned around various roads in the Thomaston city limits. “This is our home and if we’re not going to take care of it, who is?” asked Mark Price.
A community Cleanup has been tentatively scheduled for Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon in Matthews Field Parking Lot, dependent on weather. Volunteers are needed and supplies will be provided. After gathering at Matthews Field, volunteers will be assigned sections of city and county roads for cleanup.
A possible rain delay for the community cleanup will be announced on the Facebook event group, but was not available by press time. For more information, visit the event group on Facebook at https://fb.me/e/bsooi3LvN.
The cleanup event is sponsored by Heart & Soul, T-U Chamber of Commerce, Upson County, the City of Thomaston, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department, and Green for Life.
Styling, Trimming, and Spittin’ The ‘Bull’ Since 1955
Wesley Brown Barbers for 65 Years with No Plans to Stop
Wesley Brown is seen trimming around Ricky Fordham’s ears as Fordham reminisces on the many years spent in Brown’s Chair.
Published 1-28-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Take a step back in time to January 1955. More specifically, Saturday, Jan. 20, 1955. Hotel Upson was a prime meeting hub for many in the county and many found themselves stopping into the attached barber shop for a quick trim or to simply shed a few free minutes.
Local Barber Wesley Brown has kept customers happy and intrigued for the last 65 years. Starting in Hotel Upson in 1955, Brown has spent more than five decades perfecting his craft and finds joy in helping others.
George Gill sat down in the barber’s chair at 9 a.m. that Saturday and became Wesley Brown’s first customer. “I was always grateful for Mr. George,” commented Brown, also noting that former Mayor Hayes Arnold Jr. was his second customer of the morning. “I cut his hair four days before his passing and was his barber for nearly 65 years.”
Brown shares stories of how folks would keep their hats on the hall tree in the hotel barber shop while meeting in the dining room, to keep from losing valuable hats in the shuffle of folks meeting at the hotel. He even noted remembering former President Jimmy Carter’s frequent visits to Thomaston.
Although Brown began his career in 1955, his training began long before then.
Growing up in Meansville, Brown’s father was a “country barber,” cutting hair on his back porch for the boys in the community. When the Georgia Baptist Children’s Home opened on the mountain in Pike County, his father started cutting hair for all the boys in the home. As the job grew, his father took Brown with him to assist in cutting hair. Brown says he still waits on one customer from the children’s home.
“I never really knew what started it, I was just helping my dad and it went from there,” Brown commented about his barber beginnings.
Brown’s family spent a lot of time in Thomaston. His father worked in the mills and his uncle ran City Dairy. “Thomaston was our shopping area. We went to the doctor and dentist here, all of that,” said Brown. “At 16, I would hitch hike to Thomaston after school to work at Watson’s Department Store. Bill Tab, Bobby McGowen, and I would mop the floors when the store closed, and then I would hitch hike back until I could drive.”
During his senior year at Zebulon High, Brown answered an ad in an Atlanta paper for the Harper Beauty Method and received a $500 scholarship to attend. “But,” says Brown, “I turned it down and went to Macon for the Bibb County Vocational School.” At age 17, Brown completed high school, barber school, and went to work.
Brown, known for his sharp memory and knowledge of local history, has a knack for recalling specific names and dates from throughout his life. He has held his Master Barber’s License since 1955 and will not need to renew until 2022. “Ms. Granger with the state board of barbers gave me a permit to work until I could take my state board and get my Master Barber’s license.”
After spending nearly five years at Hotel Upson, Brown began barbering at Montgomery and Son’s Barber Shop on Barnesville Street, which he purchased in 1962 and renamed East Thomaston Barber Shop. “My Daughter Lynn was born that year and we were busy with a newborn and a new business,” said Brown.
While at East Thomaston, Brown staffed two barbers and a shine boy. “That’s what we miss the most in the barber business: The shine boy,” said Brown. “When folks came in, he would get their hat and help with their coat before shining their shoes. After their haircut, he brushed them off, helped with their coat, and handed the customer their hat.”
Throughout his career, Brown has served in many roles with various organizations in the community, including the Kiwanis and Key Clubs, president of the Upson Historical Society, UL Booster Club, Past Master of the East Thomaston Masonic Lodge, all while keeping up with the various hair trends that have come and gone throughout his career.
“I had a difficult time starting in 1963, ’64. The Beatles came in and everyone wanted to grow their hair long. The barber didn’t have anything to do with the young boys growing their hair out,” said Brown.
To combat the declining need for consistent cuts, Brown began straightening hair and even had a local fireman on staff for three years, who came in and straightened hair every morning, which led to the start of his styling career.
Selling East Thomaston Barber Shop in 1972, he remained on staff until 1973 when he opened El Matador, known by most as The Bull [Crap], where he still cuts hair after 48 years.
“I wanted something that fit the at-home feel… You want someone to come in and pay for the haircut, but walk away feeling relaxed and happy… You have to stretch the truth sometimes,” Brown explained. “It’s not always the quality of the cut, but the story you tell the customer, which keeps them coming back.”
Brown’s wife, Gwen, used the other half of the East Lee Street building to house her beauty salon, Salon Ela Donte, for 18 years. After suffering a heart attack in 1990, she went to Flint Technical College and learned computer operations.
Ricky Fordham has been a loyal customer for decades and has stuck with Brown through the many hair trends of the late 1900s, including when Brown began working with hair pieces.
“I was in the National Guard and was a hippy, except for on guard day,” commented Fordham. “Wesley got me a black wig and trimmed it down military style, and I wore it for three years.”
Brown also provided hair pieces for Greg Wilson and his band, who were students at R.E. Lee Institute, where a boy’s hair couldn’t touch his ears, eyebrows, or shirt collar.
Fordham said he once got Brown to give him a mohawk and convinced another man sitting in the barber shop to get a mohawk with him. “His wife didn’t speak to me for three months after he got that mohawk.”
Brown attended Roffler Hairstyling College in Atlanta before opening El Matador and added a receptionist to his staff, who also washed hair.
The styling component of Brown’s career lasted for nearly 15 years. Due to the laborious working conditions in the mills, many folks did not value an expensive haircut and Brown returned to general barber work.
Brown finds joy through his religion and by spreading happiness with others. “I love people. You don’t have to do anything for me to like you,” he said. “When it’s that simple, it’s hard to dislike somebody. You may have arguments, but it’s hard to dislike someone.”
“I pray to my God every morning. My Bible tells me that you determine how things go that day when you have that devotion with God,” Brown continued. “I’ve learned in my lifetime: If you wake up and tell yourself, ‘no matter what’s going on, I’m going to have a great day and make everyone smile that I see,’ you’d be amazed how people will love you and how you will love them. To me, that’s the best religious story ever told, and everyone has the opportunity to do that.”
Beginning his career with daily 12-hour shifts, Brown averaged 30 customers a day. Brown cut back to two days a week to spend more time with his wife and when he made the change, only kept customers who have been in his chair for 37 years. Nowadays, he averages 35 customers in the two days a week that he is open.
When asked about the scale of haircuts performed in his lifetime, Brown chuckled and commented, “I’ll say this: If I had been smart enough to put a penny aside from every haircut, I’d never be able to spend the rest of the money in my lifetime. I’m serious, because the most cuts I’ve performed in one day was 52.”
Back in the day, local mills all closed for a vacation week. Year after year on vacation week, Brown would arrive at his shop on Thursdays at 6 a.m. and as everyone cashed their vacation checks, crowds poured in for a fresh cut.
“It was always the biggest day of the year and I would work until about 9:30 at night,” said Brown. “Everything was built around the mills and there was no time to go anywhere. Everyone wanted a haircut before vacation.” Brown notes that Easter, vacation week, and Christmas were his busiest seasons.
Brown remembers the many wonderful barbers that have worked with him over the years.
“Before buying Montgomery and Sons, I worked with Grover Thompson, who was a stylist and didn’t know it. A gentleman drove a Gates Truck from Denver, Colorado to Thomaston Mills and always stopped in for a haircut. I asked him why he came all this way for Thompson to cut his hair, and he said ‘Mr. Thompson can cut my hair exactly like I want it every time and I can’t get it nowhere else’.
“Thompson was 65 at the time and barbered all of his life. He was probably a natural born hair stylist and knew how to compliment one’s features. What makes a good stylist and a good barber/beautician is when they incorporate facial features, take hair and match it to improve looks.”
Brown spoke on the many families who have supported him throughout the years. He has been a barber to five generations of Jack Wheeless’ family, six generations of the Conrad/Smith family, three generations of Sheriff Dan Kilgore’s family, and soon will have barbered four generations of the Haney family, and never loses his passion.
“The most outstanding thing is that I get excited every morning that I get to go to work. Not because I cut hair, but because I get to see my friends and we are going to have conversations. It’s a very enjoyable time for me and my customers. The barber shop is a perfect place to come and kill 30 minutes, tell a story, or stretch the truth,” said Brown. “When I went down to two days a week, everyone was patient with me. I have no intentions to quit, and the only reason would be for a medical problem.”
At age 83, Brown says he has never had to be on medication. “I’m beginning to get old… It’s amazing to be 83 and not be old.”
For Brown, maybe cutting hair and telling stories was just what the doctor ordered.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Take a step back in time to January 1955. More specifically, Saturday, Jan. 20, 1955. Hotel Upson was a prime meeting hub for many in the county and many found themselves stopping into the attached barber shop for a quick trim or to simply shed a few free minutes.
Local Barber Wesley Brown has kept customers happy and intrigued for the last 65 years. Starting in Hotel Upson in 1955, Brown has spent more than five decades perfecting his craft and finds joy in helping others.
George Gill sat down in the barber’s chair at 9 a.m. that Saturday and became Wesley Brown’s first customer. “I was always grateful for Mr. George,” commented Brown, also noting that former Mayor Hayes Arnold Jr. was his second customer of the morning. “I cut his hair four days before his passing and was his barber for nearly 65 years.”
Brown shares stories of how folks would keep their hats on the hall tree in the hotel barber shop while meeting in the dining room, to keep from losing valuable hats in the shuffle of folks meeting at the hotel. He even noted remembering former President Jimmy Carter’s frequent visits to Thomaston.
Although Brown began his career in 1955, his training began long before then.
Growing up in Meansville, Brown’s father was a “country barber,” cutting hair on his back porch for the boys in the community. When the Georgia Baptist Children’s Home opened on the mountain in Pike County, his father started cutting hair for all the boys in the home. As the job grew, his father took Brown with him to assist in cutting hair. Brown says he still waits on one customer from the children’s home.
“I never really knew what started it, I was just helping my dad and it went from there,” Brown commented about his barber beginnings.
Brown’s family spent a lot of time in Thomaston. His father worked in the mills and his uncle ran City Dairy. “Thomaston was our shopping area. We went to the doctor and dentist here, all of that,” said Brown. “At 16, I would hitch hike to Thomaston after school to work at Watson’s Department Store. Bill Tab, Bobby McGowen, and I would mop the floors when the store closed, and then I would hitch hike back until I could drive.”
During his senior year at Zebulon High, Brown answered an ad in an Atlanta paper for the Harper Beauty Method and received a $500 scholarship to attend. “But,” says Brown, “I turned it down and went to Macon for the Bibb County Vocational School.” At age 17, Brown completed high school, barber school, and went to work.
Brown, known for his sharp memory and knowledge of local history, has a knack for recalling specific names and dates from throughout his life. He has held his Master Barber’s License since 1955 and will not need to renew until 2022. “Ms. Granger with the state board of barbers gave me a permit to work until I could take my state board and get my Master Barber’s license.”
After spending nearly five years at Hotel Upson, Brown began barbering at Montgomery and Son’s Barber Shop on Barnesville Street, which he purchased in 1962 and renamed East Thomaston Barber Shop. “My Daughter Lynn was born that year and we were busy with a newborn and a new business,” said Brown.
While at East Thomaston, Brown staffed two barbers and a shine boy. “That’s what we miss the most in the barber business: The shine boy,” said Brown. “When folks came in, he would get their hat and help with their coat before shining their shoes. After their haircut, he brushed them off, helped with their coat, and handed the customer their hat.”
Throughout his career, Brown has served in many roles with various organizations in the community, including the Kiwanis and Key Clubs, president of the Upson Historical Society, UL Booster Club, Past Master of the East Thomaston Masonic Lodge, all while keeping up with the various hair trends that have come and gone throughout his career.
“I had a difficult time starting in 1963, ’64. The Beatles came in and everyone wanted to grow their hair long. The barber didn’t have anything to do with the young boys growing their hair out,” said Brown.
To combat the declining need for consistent cuts, Brown began straightening hair and even had a local fireman on staff for three years, who came in and straightened hair every morning, which led to the start of his styling career.
Selling East Thomaston Barber Shop in 1972, he remained on staff until 1973 when he opened El Matador, known by most as The Bull [Crap], where he still cuts hair after 48 years.
“I wanted something that fit the at-home feel… You want someone to come in and pay for the haircut, but walk away feeling relaxed and happy… You have to stretch the truth sometimes,” Brown explained. “It’s not always the quality of the cut, but the story you tell the customer, which keeps them coming back.”
Brown’s wife, Gwen, used the other half of the East Lee Street building to house her beauty salon, Salon Ela Donte, for 18 years. After suffering a heart attack in 1990, she went to Flint Technical College and learned computer operations.
Ricky Fordham has been a loyal customer for decades and has stuck with Brown through the many hair trends of the late 1900s, including when Brown began working with hair pieces.
“I was in the National Guard and was a hippy, except for on guard day,” commented Fordham. “Wesley got me a black wig and trimmed it down military style, and I wore it for three years.”
Brown also provided hair pieces for Greg Wilson and his band, who were students at R.E. Lee Institute, where a boy’s hair couldn’t touch his ears, eyebrows, or shirt collar.
Fordham said he once got Brown to give him a mohawk and convinced another man sitting in the barber shop to get a mohawk with him. “His wife didn’t speak to me for three months after he got that mohawk.”
Brown attended Roffler Hairstyling College in Atlanta before opening El Matador and added a receptionist to his staff, who also washed hair.
The styling component of Brown’s career lasted for nearly 15 years. Due to the laborious working conditions in the mills, many folks did not value an expensive haircut and Brown returned to general barber work.
Brown finds joy through his religion and by spreading happiness with others. “I love people. You don’t have to do anything for me to like you,” he said. “When it’s that simple, it’s hard to dislike somebody. You may have arguments, but it’s hard to dislike someone.”
“I pray to my God every morning. My Bible tells me that you determine how things go that day when you have that devotion with God,” Brown continued. “I’ve learned in my lifetime: If you wake up and tell yourself, ‘no matter what’s going on, I’m going to have a great day and make everyone smile that I see,’ you’d be amazed how people will love you and how you will love them. To me, that’s the best religious story ever told, and everyone has the opportunity to do that.”
Beginning his career with daily 12-hour shifts, Brown averaged 30 customers a day. Brown cut back to two days a week to spend more time with his wife and when he made the change, only kept customers who have been in his chair for 37 years. Nowadays, he averages 35 customers in the two days a week that he is open.
When asked about the scale of haircuts performed in his lifetime, Brown chuckled and commented, “I’ll say this: If I had been smart enough to put a penny aside from every haircut, I’d never be able to spend the rest of the money in my lifetime. I’m serious, because the most cuts I’ve performed in one day was 52.”
Back in the day, local mills all closed for a vacation week. Year after year on vacation week, Brown would arrive at his shop on Thursdays at 6 a.m. and as everyone cashed their vacation checks, crowds poured in for a fresh cut.
“It was always the biggest day of the year and I would work until about 9:30 at night,” said Brown. “Everything was built around the mills and there was no time to go anywhere. Everyone wanted a haircut before vacation.” Brown notes that Easter, vacation week, and Christmas were his busiest seasons.
Brown remembers the many wonderful barbers that have worked with him over the years.
“Before buying Montgomery and Sons, I worked with Grover Thompson, who was a stylist and didn’t know it. A gentleman drove a Gates Truck from Denver, Colorado to Thomaston Mills and always stopped in for a haircut. I asked him why he came all this way for Thompson to cut his hair, and he said ‘Mr. Thompson can cut my hair exactly like I want it every time and I can’t get it nowhere else’.
“Thompson was 65 at the time and barbered all of his life. He was probably a natural born hair stylist and knew how to compliment one’s features. What makes a good stylist and a good barber/beautician is when they incorporate facial features, take hair and match it to improve looks.”
Brown spoke on the many families who have supported him throughout the years. He has been a barber to five generations of Jack Wheeless’ family, six generations of the Conrad/Smith family, three generations of Sheriff Dan Kilgore’s family, and soon will have barbered four generations of the Haney family, and never loses his passion.
“The most outstanding thing is that I get excited every morning that I get to go to work. Not because I cut hair, but because I get to see my friends and we are going to have conversations. It’s a very enjoyable time for me and my customers. The barber shop is a perfect place to come and kill 30 minutes, tell a story, or stretch the truth,” said Brown. “When I went down to two days a week, everyone was patient with me. I have no intentions to quit, and the only reason would be for a medical problem.”
At age 83, Brown says he has never had to be on medication. “I’m beginning to get old… It’s amazing to be 83 and not be old.”
For Brown, maybe cutting hair and telling stories was just what the doctor ordered.
James A. Searcy Scholarship Fund
Published 1-21-2021
Even after his passing, James A. Searcy continues to help others through the establishment of the James A. Searcy Medical/Healthcare Educational Scholarship.
In memory of Searcy, a scholarship fund has been set up at West Central Georgia Bank. Memorial contributions may be made to the scholarship fund at WCGB and the account number ends in 518.
Contributions will benefit high school seniors who plan to major in any field of medicine or healthcare. Students must reside in Upson, Henry, or Spalding Counties.
Even after his passing, James A. Searcy continues to help others through the establishment of the James A. Searcy Medical/Healthcare Educational Scholarship.
In memory of Searcy, a scholarship fund has been set up at West Central Georgia Bank. Memorial contributions may be made to the scholarship fund at WCGB and the account number ends in 518.
Contributions will benefit high school seniors who plan to major in any field of medicine or healthcare. Students must reside in Upson, Henry, or Spalding Counties.
100 Years of History Encased in Brick
Ann Carol Daniel’s Granddaughter Madison stands in front of the McDaniel-Atwater-Daniel Home.
Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 1-21-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
For 100 years, the historic McDaniel-Atwater-Daniel House, located at 317 West Main Street, has stood tall above downtown Thomaston and has served as home to several families, multiple businesses, and countless social events.
The Neo-classical style home was originally constructed in 1920 for the family of John and Effie McDaniel and was designed by Frank Milbourn, a prominent national architect of Washington, D.C. who also designed the current Upson County Courthouse.
John McDaniel was a prominent member of Thomaston, serving as town marshal from 1895 to 1900, was a county commissioner from 1925 to 1931, a successful peach farmer, and served as Thomaston police chief.
Captain James R. Atwater acquired the house in the 1930s and was a successful businessman and banker, mayor of Thomaston, and was a member of the General Assembly.
Growing up, Bill Daniel would often walk by the house on the way to school and dream of one day owning the large brick home.
In 1964 Daniel, along with his wife Ann Carol and three children, made his childhood dream come true through the purchase of the 19-room home and began working on renovations one room at a time. Renovations spanned for the next five years.
For many years, Ann Carol worked as an interior designer and West Main Street provided Ann Carol with the perfect project. According to an article in the Atlanta Journal- Constitution Magazine from 1966, the first completed redecoration was the ground floor bathroom. After changes were made to the flooring, walls, and fixtures, the Daniels held a “bathroom party” to celebrate the completion. Small celebrations were held after various rooms were completed.
Many challenges arose during the renovations, including removing old wallpaper, accidentally sticking wallpaper to the floor, and handling the many hurtles that their son Matt caused.
While their older son Al had become quite handy at assisting his father and locating needed tools, Matt had been found happily sanding away at furniture and spreading paint across newly laid carpet and nearby furniture.
After Bill died in 1981, the Daniel family remained in the residence until 1984. Since then, the home has been rented to several business owners including Al and Barbara Holloway, Richard Bishoff, and Rosanna Hand.
“I have owned the home for over 56 years now and it has served our family very well. It was close to our church, convenient to town, and provided a wonderful space for raising a family and entertaining,” said Ann Carol Daniel.
Surrounded by a brick and iron fence, the 19-room home sits on .81 acres in downtown Thomaston. Showcasing red brick with painted white detailing, the home includes a low-pitched pyramidal roof with original clay red barrel roof tiles, a dominant full-height entry portico, single story front porch with smaller columns, interrupted by a small second story balcony, with dentil molding along the cornices, and four chimneys.
The openings consist of multi-paned paired and triple windows; the front façade featuring the main entrance.
Upon entering the home, the front door opens into a drawing room, along with a library, two half bathrooms, and a utility room on the left side of the home with a small rear hallway in the center. The right portion of the front floor contains music, sun, dining, and breakfast rooms, with a kitchen at the rear.
The second floor of the house has a full central hall and staircase with a door to the balcony and front façade. The second story includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms. A one-story detached garage, constructed circa 1920, sits on the left side of the property, while the right side contains a fountain and remnants of a 1940s formal garden.
The home also retains many original features including wooden floors, doors and hardware, windows, and two of the original fireplaces.
With the help of close friends Jim and Johnnie Gaskill, Daniel achieved a long-sought goal of obtaining historical significance on Nov. 6, 2020 when the Georgia Division of the National Register of Historic Properties voted to list the McDaniel home on the register. Once the national board approves the listing, a historical marker will be placed in the front yard of the home.
Currently, UGA graduate and Thomaston native Kimberley Cook Davis, daughter of Billy and Ellene (Noell) Cook, brings new life into the home, which will serve as a base for her interior design and catering business. She plans to open the home as a venue and use the coach house as a store-front for selling pre-made dinners.
“Ann Carol is my mother’s best friend,” said Davis. “I spent much of my childhood on West Main and Ann Carol is the person who inspired me to become a designer.”
For nearly two years, Davis has spent countless hours renovating the home, including repainting many rooms, adding unique furnishings, and converting the home’s kitchen into a commercial-level kitchen.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
For 100 years, the historic McDaniel-Atwater-Daniel House, located at 317 West Main Street, has stood tall above downtown Thomaston and has served as home to several families, multiple businesses, and countless social events.
The Neo-classical style home was originally constructed in 1920 for the family of John and Effie McDaniel and was designed by Frank Milbourn, a prominent national architect of Washington, D.C. who also designed the current Upson County Courthouse.
John McDaniel was a prominent member of Thomaston, serving as town marshal from 1895 to 1900, was a county commissioner from 1925 to 1931, a successful peach farmer, and served as Thomaston police chief.
Captain James R. Atwater acquired the house in the 1930s and was a successful businessman and banker, mayor of Thomaston, and was a member of the General Assembly.
Growing up, Bill Daniel would often walk by the house on the way to school and dream of one day owning the large brick home.
In 1964 Daniel, along with his wife Ann Carol and three children, made his childhood dream come true through the purchase of the 19-room home and began working on renovations one room at a time. Renovations spanned for the next five years.
For many years, Ann Carol worked as an interior designer and West Main Street provided Ann Carol with the perfect project. According to an article in the Atlanta Journal- Constitution Magazine from 1966, the first completed redecoration was the ground floor bathroom. After changes were made to the flooring, walls, and fixtures, the Daniels held a “bathroom party” to celebrate the completion. Small celebrations were held after various rooms were completed.
Many challenges arose during the renovations, including removing old wallpaper, accidentally sticking wallpaper to the floor, and handling the many hurtles that their son Matt caused.
While their older son Al had become quite handy at assisting his father and locating needed tools, Matt had been found happily sanding away at furniture and spreading paint across newly laid carpet and nearby furniture.
After Bill died in 1981, the Daniel family remained in the residence until 1984. Since then, the home has been rented to several business owners including Al and Barbara Holloway, Richard Bishoff, and Rosanna Hand.
“I have owned the home for over 56 years now and it has served our family very well. It was close to our church, convenient to town, and provided a wonderful space for raising a family and entertaining,” said Ann Carol Daniel.
Surrounded by a brick and iron fence, the 19-room home sits on .81 acres in downtown Thomaston. Showcasing red brick with painted white detailing, the home includes a low-pitched pyramidal roof with original clay red barrel roof tiles, a dominant full-height entry portico, single story front porch with smaller columns, interrupted by a small second story balcony, with dentil molding along the cornices, and four chimneys.
The openings consist of multi-paned paired and triple windows; the front façade featuring the main entrance.
Upon entering the home, the front door opens into a drawing room, along with a library, two half bathrooms, and a utility room on the left side of the home with a small rear hallway in the center. The right portion of the front floor contains music, sun, dining, and breakfast rooms, with a kitchen at the rear.
The second floor of the house has a full central hall and staircase with a door to the balcony and front façade. The second story includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms. A one-story detached garage, constructed circa 1920, sits on the left side of the property, while the right side contains a fountain and remnants of a 1940s formal garden.
The home also retains many original features including wooden floors, doors and hardware, windows, and two of the original fireplaces.
With the help of close friends Jim and Johnnie Gaskill, Daniel achieved a long-sought goal of obtaining historical significance on Nov. 6, 2020 when the Georgia Division of the National Register of Historic Properties voted to list the McDaniel home on the register. Once the national board approves the listing, a historical marker will be placed in the front yard of the home.
Currently, UGA graduate and Thomaston native Kimberley Cook Davis, daughter of Billy and Ellene (Noell) Cook, brings new life into the home, which will serve as a base for her interior design and catering business. She plans to open the home as a venue and use the coach house as a store-front for selling pre-made dinners.
“Ann Carol is my mother’s best friend,” said Davis. “I spent much of my childhood on West Main and Ann Carol is the person who inspired me to become a designer.”
For nearly two years, Davis has spent countless hours renovating the home, including repainting many rooms, adding unique furnishings, and converting the home’s kitchen into a commercial-level kitchen.
Third Chime’s the Charm
In less than 200 years, Three Staple Justice Buildings Grace Downtown Thomaston
Streams of light from passing cars are captured in front of the Upson County Courthouse, decorated for Christmas 2019. Photo by Luke Haney.
Published 1-14-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Information and data about Upson County’s courthouses was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and various stories from The Free Press, The Thomaston Times, and The Upson Beacon.
In nearly 200 years, downtown Thomaston has been home to three Upson County Courthouses and the many changes that affected the topography of the square.
After the founding of Upson County in 1824, plans were soon made for a courthouse in the county. For a price of $10,000, the county contracted with John Crane to build the original courthouse, which sat in the same location that the current courthouse sits. In the meantime, courts were held in the home of Judge John Turner, rented in the September term of 1827 for $50.
In the January 1828 term, the Inferior Court accepted the new courthouse and specified that the present term of court be held therein. Contractor Crane was paid $499.90 for extra work done around the structure. Additions between 1830 and 1844 included shade trees, pavement around the courthouse, and a fence to enclose the grounds. The earliest Sanborn Map, created January 1885, showcased the configuration of the building and the two public wells that sat on the square, outside the courthouse fencing.
Sorely neglected, the original building was left open to be defaced and damaged. Cracks began appearing in the walls in 1852 and it was deemed necessary to raze the structure.
The second courthouse was built in 1852 at a price of $60,000 using bricks from the former building. With only enough bricks for the first story, the second story of the structure was constructed of wood. The plain rectangular structure showcased a painted white brick, and the second floor was painted green. Remodeling in 1887 included reconfiguration of the gabled roof to a fashionable Mansard style roof, the addition of a fireproof vault, and a 55-foot clocktower on the east porch.
The clock tower, completed in August 1887, stood without a clock for nearly five years. Some “country folk” complained that public money ought not to be spent on a clock that could only be seen by “townsfolk” and other persons close enough to see it. A Sanborn Map, created in 1895, shows the arrangement of the second courthouse with the clocktower included. By this point, two additional wells were present around the square.
In 1892, the town council donated a town clock to be put in the courthouse tower. The clock, constructed by Seth Thomas Clock Co. in Connecticut, had four dials and a belt that “Could be heard for over two miles,” and was manually wound until electricity became common.
Dedication of a monument honoring Confederate soldiers, which still stands today, was held on May 2, 1908, the same month that the second courthouse was removed, making way for a new edifice to be constructed after the second structure faced many faults. “Cracks zig zagged across the walls at an alarming rate,” and the building was considered “a danger to all who walked its halls.”
Frank Milbourn, a prominent national architect of Washington, D.C., designed the new structure and it is said that builders “Goude & Company of Atlanta had followed Milburn’s blueprints accurately and built one of the loveliest courthouses in the South, constructed in the Neo-Classical Revival style.”
A nearly identical structure, also designed by Milbourn, serves as the Dubois County Courthouse in Jasper, Ind. Constructed in 1909, the Dubois courthouse appears to only differ from the Upson County Courthouse by the addition of one or two windows.
Milbourn, a fan of the Neo-Classical Revival style, designed the McDaniel House, built at 317 West Main Street in 1920, in the same style.
While none doubted the need for a new courthouse, concerned citizens like Dr. Edward Flewellen did not agree with the county commission’s decision to fund the “masterpiece” through a one-year taxation. “He took on the commissioners, using all of his affluence and power, carrying the case all the way to the Georgia Supreme Court,” arguing for “the people’s rights.”
The current courthouse, a 18,000 square foot staple of Upson County, sits on the 1.32-acre downtown square and was constructed between May and December of 1908. Officially completed Dec. 31, the first court case held in the new edifice was on Dec. 21.
It is said that a $10 bill was dropped into one of the courthouse columns so that the county would never go broke.
Since the Neo-classical structure was erected, it has seen many interesting events and undergone several phases of renovations.
On Feb. 22, 1918 at about 9 p.m., Night Marshal J. J. Moore was patrolling the square when “Moore deemed Loyd Howell somewhat boisterous on the streets, requested him to desist, and endeavored to quiet him. After some time had elapsed, Howell shoved Moore through the big plate window on the south side of Jones-Adams-Johnson Co. Store resulting in he and Moore both being cut by glass but not seriously wounded. Howell’s pistol was taken away from him at this time.”
About that time, Police Chief McDaniel and Loyd’s father, Sheriff Howell, both received calls for assistance. Both soon appeared downtown before two gunshots were heard.
With two shots fired, Loyd Howell died in about 40 minutes and Sheriff Howell, receiving the second bullet, died within 24 hours. McDaniel, charged with the murder of Loyd Howell, was later released, seeming that he acted in self-defense.
Sparks from a courthouse chimney fell into a bird’s nest lodged into the rafters of the building, causing a small fire in 1930. For a few minutes, flames burst through a small area of the roof on the west section of the north side of the building before it was extinguished by the fire department.
One of the largest courthouse renovations took place in 1968, including but not limited to rewiring, installing a new heating system, and a complete renovation of the courtroom floor, which included elimination of the balcony, lowering the two-story ceiling to one, and adding air conditioning to the room. The judge’s box, jury box, and witness stands were either rebuilt or entirely replaced.
Additional repairs, including a new roof, were made in 1994. During repainting of the courthouse dome, many citizens began threatening retaliation when the dome appeared red. Phone calls and complaints ended once the red primer was dry and a white paint was laid over the dome.
Around 1999, honeybees were discovered and removed while preparing for various renovations. Upson County Commissioners hired a beekeeper, who was able to safely remove a two-foot-tall honeycomb, the bees, and five gallons of honey.
Shortly after, renovations were completed to install an elevator for handicap accessibility, while the first floor and basement bathrooms were made accessible for individuals with physical impairments.
Roy Jordan of Manchester visited Thomaston in January 2001 to begin repairs on the original courthouse clock, which is temporarily removed for current courthouse renovations, but will be replaced this summer.
Thomaston’s clock is made of bronze and brass; the shafts are stainless steel. “The clock in the courthouse is a rare one to find,” said Jordan. “There are a total of four clocks like the one in the courthouse with working mechanisms. Including the clock in Thomaston. The other clocks are located in Alabama, Louisiana, and Connecticut.”
Jordan stated that he had only found 33 clocks like Thomaston’s in the country at that time, but not all of them were operable and are usually in shops or are owned privately. Difficult repair aspects included sourcing parts, “because not everyone has parts that are compatible with a century old clock.”
2002 renovations uncovered a “buried treasure” in the courthouse. While removing the suspended ceiling, which was added as a part of the 1968 renovations, construction workers discovered stained glass panels in the center of the courtroom ceiling, along with the elaborate plaster molding and arched windows, which date back to 1908. Today, the stained-glass panels shine bright above the courtroom.
The Upson County Commission is currently in the midst of a $1.3 million courthouse facelift, including replacement of the clock tower and roof repairs. The new tower, built in Campbellsville, Ky. by Campbellsville Industries, will meet the guidelines of historic preservation, according to project engineers. The project is scheduled to be completed by summer.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Information and data about Upson County’s courthouses was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and various stories from The Free Press, The Thomaston Times, and The Upson Beacon.
In nearly 200 years, downtown Thomaston has been home to three Upson County Courthouses and the many changes that affected the topography of the square.
After the founding of Upson County in 1824, plans were soon made for a courthouse in the county. For a price of $10,000, the county contracted with John Crane to build the original courthouse, which sat in the same location that the current courthouse sits. In the meantime, courts were held in the home of Judge John Turner, rented in the September term of 1827 for $50.
In the January 1828 term, the Inferior Court accepted the new courthouse and specified that the present term of court be held therein. Contractor Crane was paid $499.90 for extra work done around the structure. Additions between 1830 and 1844 included shade trees, pavement around the courthouse, and a fence to enclose the grounds. The earliest Sanborn Map, created January 1885, showcased the configuration of the building and the two public wells that sat on the square, outside the courthouse fencing.
Sorely neglected, the original building was left open to be defaced and damaged. Cracks began appearing in the walls in 1852 and it was deemed necessary to raze the structure.
The second courthouse was built in 1852 at a price of $60,000 using bricks from the former building. With only enough bricks for the first story, the second story of the structure was constructed of wood. The plain rectangular structure showcased a painted white brick, and the second floor was painted green. Remodeling in 1887 included reconfiguration of the gabled roof to a fashionable Mansard style roof, the addition of a fireproof vault, and a 55-foot clocktower on the east porch.
The clock tower, completed in August 1887, stood without a clock for nearly five years. Some “country folk” complained that public money ought not to be spent on a clock that could only be seen by “townsfolk” and other persons close enough to see it. A Sanborn Map, created in 1895, shows the arrangement of the second courthouse with the clocktower included. By this point, two additional wells were present around the square.
In 1892, the town council donated a town clock to be put in the courthouse tower. The clock, constructed by Seth Thomas Clock Co. in Connecticut, had four dials and a belt that “Could be heard for over two miles,” and was manually wound until electricity became common.
Dedication of a monument honoring Confederate soldiers, which still stands today, was held on May 2, 1908, the same month that the second courthouse was removed, making way for a new edifice to be constructed after the second structure faced many faults. “Cracks zig zagged across the walls at an alarming rate,” and the building was considered “a danger to all who walked its halls.”
Frank Milbourn, a prominent national architect of Washington, D.C., designed the new structure and it is said that builders “Goude & Company of Atlanta had followed Milburn’s blueprints accurately and built one of the loveliest courthouses in the South, constructed in the Neo-Classical Revival style.”
A nearly identical structure, also designed by Milbourn, serves as the Dubois County Courthouse in Jasper, Ind. Constructed in 1909, the Dubois courthouse appears to only differ from the Upson County Courthouse by the addition of one or two windows.
Milbourn, a fan of the Neo-Classical Revival style, designed the McDaniel House, built at 317 West Main Street in 1920, in the same style.
While none doubted the need for a new courthouse, concerned citizens like Dr. Edward Flewellen did not agree with the county commission’s decision to fund the “masterpiece” through a one-year taxation. “He took on the commissioners, using all of his affluence and power, carrying the case all the way to the Georgia Supreme Court,” arguing for “the people’s rights.”
The current courthouse, a 18,000 square foot staple of Upson County, sits on the 1.32-acre downtown square and was constructed between May and December of 1908. Officially completed Dec. 31, the first court case held in the new edifice was on Dec. 21.
It is said that a $10 bill was dropped into one of the courthouse columns so that the county would never go broke.
Since the Neo-classical structure was erected, it has seen many interesting events and undergone several phases of renovations.
On Feb. 22, 1918 at about 9 p.m., Night Marshal J. J. Moore was patrolling the square when “Moore deemed Loyd Howell somewhat boisterous on the streets, requested him to desist, and endeavored to quiet him. After some time had elapsed, Howell shoved Moore through the big plate window on the south side of Jones-Adams-Johnson Co. Store resulting in he and Moore both being cut by glass but not seriously wounded. Howell’s pistol was taken away from him at this time.”
About that time, Police Chief McDaniel and Loyd’s father, Sheriff Howell, both received calls for assistance. Both soon appeared downtown before two gunshots were heard.
With two shots fired, Loyd Howell died in about 40 minutes and Sheriff Howell, receiving the second bullet, died within 24 hours. McDaniel, charged with the murder of Loyd Howell, was later released, seeming that he acted in self-defense.
Sparks from a courthouse chimney fell into a bird’s nest lodged into the rafters of the building, causing a small fire in 1930. For a few minutes, flames burst through a small area of the roof on the west section of the north side of the building before it was extinguished by the fire department.
One of the largest courthouse renovations took place in 1968, including but not limited to rewiring, installing a new heating system, and a complete renovation of the courtroom floor, which included elimination of the balcony, lowering the two-story ceiling to one, and adding air conditioning to the room. The judge’s box, jury box, and witness stands were either rebuilt or entirely replaced.
Additional repairs, including a new roof, were made in 1994. During repainting of the courthouse dome, many citizens began threatening retaliation when the dome appeared red. Phone calls and complaints ended once the red primer was dry and a white paint was laid over the dome.
Around 1999, honeybees were discovered and removed while preparing for various renovations. Upson County Commissioners hired a beekeeper, who was able to safely remove a two-foot-tall honeycomb, the bees, and five gallons of honey.
Shortly after, renovations were completed to install an elevator for handicap accessibility, while the first floor and basement bathrooms were made accessible for individuals with physical impairments.
Roy Jordan of Manchester visited Thomaston in January 2001 to begin repairs on the original courthouse clock, which is temporarily removed for current courthouse renovations, but will be replaced this summer.
Thomaston’s clock is made of bronze and brass; the shafts are stainless steel. “The clock in the courthouse is a rare one to find,” said Jordan. “There are a total of four clocks like the one in the courthouse with working mechanisms. Including the clock in Thomaston. The other clocks are located in Alabama, Louisiana, and Connecticut.”
Jordan stated that he had only found 33 clocks like Thomaston’s in the country at that time, but not all of them were operable and are usually in shops or are owned privately. Difficult repair aspects included sourcing parts, “because not everyone has parts that are compatible with a century old clock.”
2002 renovations uncovered a “buried treasure” in the courthouse. While removing the suspended ceiling, which was added as a part of the 1968 renovations, construction workers discovered stained glass panels in the center of the courtroom ceiling, along with the elaborate plaster molding and arched windows, which date back to 1908. Today, the stained-glass panels shine bright above the courtroom.
The Upson County Commission is currently in the midst of a $1.3 million courthouse facelift, including replacement of the clock tower and roof repairs. The new tower, built in Campbellsville, Ky. by Campbellsville Industries, will meet the guidelines of historic preservation, according to project engineers. The project is scheduled to be completed by summer.
Spires Clothing Will Hang Around Forever
Historic Overalls Donated to Archives, Spires Reminisces
Above, Thomaston-Upson Archives Director Jamesan Gramme holds the historic overalls with James Spires. Below, the storefront of Spires Clothing.
Published 1-7-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
After more than six decades on Barnesville Street, 87-year-old James Spires looks back on his lifelong business with gratitude.
While traveling along Barnesville Street in Thomaston, many have noticed a pair of size 64 overalls hanging by the entrance of Spires Clothing, which served folks throughout Georgia from 1956 to 2017.
Completing 30-plus years of successful advertising in the window, owner James Spires donated the historic overalls to the Thomaston-Upson Archives last month. “They’re not the biggest pair made,” commented Spires. “A lady in Atlanta wore a size bigger than that and her brother would stop by and get a pair about once a year.”
Growing up, Spires worked on farms in South Georgia. Spires’ aunt was a resident of Thomaston and when she would visit for crops, often told Spires to “move that way” once he grew up.
Spires listened and, after moving to Thomaston, has said for many years, “There’s nothing like looking at a jackass’s butt all day to make you want to get out of the fields.”
Spires met his wife, Irene, when he moved to Thomaston and began working at BF Goodrich’s tire cord mill. While visiting her father’s oil station, Spires was introduced to a Columbus man who was looking for a salesman. Spires then began working as a traveling furniture salesman until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1954.
When he came off maneuvers in the Army, James called Irene and told her that he wanted to marry her the following day. The two were married on July 9, 1955 and soon opened their business.
With a past selling furniture, Spires was well-versed with routes in rural Georgia. He loaded his trunk and began traveling around Upson County and beyond with overalls, boots, dresses, and made many sales in cotton patches and farming communities throughout the state.
Due to his rural upbringing, Spires had a strong understanding of the crop cycle and knew when the farmers would be able to pay for clothing. “You had to wait until you sold your crops to pay your bills,” said Spires. Once crops were sold, Spires would return and collect for the sales, sometimes carrying the debt for up to a year.
Spires was able to walk onto the field, look at any worker and immediately know what size clothing they needed, often shocking folks with his accuracy.
In 1956, James and Irene established a storefront for their business on Barnesville Street. Spires Clothing quickly grew strong and in 1960, Irene quit her job to work full time at the store. When their daughter Kim was born in 1963, a playpen was moved in and Kim spent most of her childhood in the store. “She would run around the store with big ol’ shoes on,” commented Spires.
The Spires look back at East Thomaston, remembering the thriving shopping district which once flourished around Thomaston Mills and Spires Clothing. “Thomaston Mills and BF Goodrich made it where young people could get a job without having to jump up and leave,” commented Spires. “A bunch of good people live here.”
Kim’s favorite time in the store was at Christmas, especially because of the strong sense of community during that era. “I had a beautiful childhood,” commented Kim. “Back then, there was a big counter at the store and during Christmas time, it was also filled with an assortment of pies, fudge, sausage balls, and other Christmas treats from others. That’s just the way it was; it was like family.”
Raised on Barnesville Street in a home near the store, Kim remembers the many thriving businesses like Paulk’s Pharmacy, Day’s Grocery, Jones Pecan Shed, Wesley Brown’s Barber Shop, and the influx of foot and automobile traffic when the mill shifts changed each day at 4 p.m.
A row of small brick apartments lining Barnesville Street sat to the left of Spires Clothing and Kim remembers elderly residents living in these apartments throughout her childhood. Every day after closing the store, Irene would check in with each neighbor on her way home. Kim chuckled while reminiscing of her neighbors, noting, “You could get the best tomatoes behind [the apartments]. Mrs. Caldwell used to have a tomato patch out there and I once got into a fight with her grandson with the tomatoes and that was the end of us going into her garden… Mr. Searcy made the best 10-layer chocolate cake.”
Not all times were great during the days of Spires Clothing. During the recession of the 1970s, businesses closed and many lost their livelihood. “I remember the look on their faces and I’ll never forget that as long as I live. It was heartbreaking for me,” commented Kim. “It was disheartening.”
Spires had extended thousands in credit and many could not pay after losing their salary. “He knew it was good people who hit hard times,” commented Kim. “He never garnished a wage, and all but one person paid him back... I’m always proud of my dad. We didn’t have any revenue coming in and so much due in credit, but I’m thankful he got a job at BF Goodrich in security during that time.”
“My dad had been very active with me,” remembers Kim, “but then he had to take a job that took him out of that. If there was overtime to work, he had to take it. We didn’t have the money not to take it. I remember all the people that came in the store, but no one ever let me know how bad we had it. My parents kept it very peaceful at home.”
After the recession, business picked back up and the store remained successful for many years.
Around 2000, Irene began to decline in health. As her illnesses progressed, James spent less time in the store and eventually closed the doors in 2017 after Irene developed Alzheimer’s disease. “People helped out, but dad never left her side,” commented Kim.
After spending many years in Atlanta, Kim now finds herself moving back to Upson to reconnect with old friends and spend more time with her father, considering herself lucky to have roots in Upson. “There’s something special about Thomaston.”
No matter the job, Spires has always worked hard to provide for his family, business, and community. “I was built a country boy,” commented Spires. “That’s all I’ll ever be - a country boy.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
After more than six decades on Barnesville Street, 87-year-old James Spires looks back on his lifelong business with gratitude.
While traveling along Barnesville Street in Thomaston, many have noticed a pair of size 64 overalls hanging by the entrance of Spires Clothing, which served folks throughout Georgia from 1956 to 2017.
Completing 30-plus years of successful advertising in the window, owner James Spires donated the historic overalls to the Thomaston-Upson Archives last month. “They’re not the biggest pair made,” commented Spires. “A lady in Atlanta wore a size bigger than that and her brother would stop by and get a pair about once a year.”
Growing up, Spires worked on farms in South Georgia. Spires’ aunt was a resident of Thomaston and when she would visit for crops, often told Spires to “move that way” once he grew up.
Spires listened and, after moving to Thomaston, has said for many years, “There’s nothing like looking at a jackass’s butt all day to make you want to get out of the fields.”
Spires met his wife, Irene, when he moved to Thomaston and began working at BF Goodrich’s tire cord mill. While visiting her father’s oil station, Spires was introduced to a Columbus man who was looking for a salesman. Spires then began working as a traveling furniture salesman until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1954.
When he came off maneuvers in the Army, James called Irene and told her that he wanted to marry her the following day. The two were married on July 9, 1955 and soon opened their business.
With a past selling furniture, Spires was well-versed with routes in rural Georgia. He loaded his trunk and began traveling around Upson County and beyond with overalls, boots, dresses, and made many sales in cotton patches and farming communities throughout the state.
Due to his rural upbringing, Spires had a strong understanding of the crop cycle and knew when the farmers would be able to pay for clothing. “You had to wait until you sold your crops to pay your bills,” said Spires. Once crops were sold, Spires would return and collect for the sales, sometimes carrying the debt for up to a year.
Spires was able to walk onto the field, look at any worker and immediately know what size clothing they needed, often shocking folks with his accuracy.
In 1956, James and Irene established a storefront for their business on Barnesville Street. Spires Clothing quickly grew strong and in 1960, Irene quit her job to work full time at the store. When their daughter Kim was born in 1963, a playpen was moved in and Kim spent most of her childhood in the store. “She would run around the store with big ol’ shoes on,” commented Spires.
The Spires look back at East Thomaston, remembering the thriving shopping district which once flourished around Thomaston Mills and Spires Clothing. “Thomaston Mills and BF Goodrich made it where young people could get a job without having to jump up and leave,” commented Spires. “A bunch of good people live here.”
Kim’s favorite time in the store was at Christmas, especially because of the strong sense of community during that era. “I had a beautiful childhood,” commented Kim. “Back then, there was a big counter at the store and during Christmas time, it was also filled with an assortment of pies, fudge, sausage balls, and other Christmas treats from others. That’s just the way it was; it was like family.”
Raised on Barnesville Street in a home near the store, Kim remembers the many thriving businesses like Paulk’s Pharmacy, Day’s Grocery, Jones Pecan Shed, Wesley Brown’s Barber Shop, and the influx of foot and automobile traffic when the mill shifts changed each day at 4 p.m.
A row of small brick apartments lining Barnesville Street sat to the left of Spires Clothing and Kim remembers elderly residents living in these apartments throughout her childhood. Every day after closing the store, Irene would check in with each neighbor on her way home. Kim chuckled while reminiscing of her neighbors, noting, “You could get the best tomatoes behind [the apartments]. Mrs. Caldwell used to have a tomato patch out there and I once got into a fight with her grandson with the tomatoes and that was the end of us going into her garden… Mr. Searcy made the best 10-layer chocolate cake.”
Not all times were great during the days of Spires Clothing. During the recession of the 1970s, businesses closed and many lost their livelihood. “I remember the look on their faces and I’ll never forget that as long as I live. It was heartbreaking for me,” commented Kim. “It was disheartening.”
Spires had extended thousands in credit and many could not pay after losing their salary. “He knew it was good people who hit hard times,” commented Kim. “He never garnished a wage, and all but one person paid him back... I’m always proud of my dad. We didn’t have any revenue coming in and so much due in credit, but I’m thankful he got a job at BF Goodrich in security during that time.”
“My dad had been very active with me,” remembers Kim, “but then he had to take a job that took him out of that. If there was overtime to work, he had to take it. We didn’t have the money not to take it. I remember all the people that came in the store, but no one ever let me know how bad we had it. My parents kept it very peaceful at home.”
After the recession, business picked back up and the store remained successful for many years.
Around 2000, Irene began to decline in health. As her illnesses progressed, James spent less time in the store and eventually closed the doors in 2017 after Irene developed Alzheimer’s disease. “People helped out, but dad never left her side,” commented Kim.
After spending many years in Atlanta, Kim now finds herself moving back to Upson to reconnect with old friends and spend more time with her father, considering herself lucky to have roots in Upson. “There’s something special about Thomaston.”
No matter the job, Spires has always worked hard to provide for his family, business, and community. “I was built a country boy,” commented Spires. “That’s all I’ll ever be - a country boy.”
Adventurist Trip Smith Paddles to Sprewell Bluff
Trip Smith spent Night One sleeping on his paddle board after realizing his hammock was forgotten in Alabama.
L-R: Upson County Manager Jason Tinsley, Trip Smith, and UC Commission Chair Norman Allen. Photos submitted.
Published 1-7-2021
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Alabama first responder and nature enthusiast Trip Smith recently paddled down the Flint River while documenting the three-day camping journey.
When the Dothan fire fighter isn’t at work, he spends his time paddling throughout the Southeast and shares his overnight camping adventures with the world through his YouTube channel. Smith has ventured through many rivers and springs in south Alabama and Florida, including the Florida Keys and Florida Panhandle, but told the Upson Beacon that he has never paddled rivers with bluffs like the Flint.
“I Like to find places with good things to look at like clear water, bluffs and mountains,” said Smith. “I enjoy it because of the ‘fear of the unknown’ and because it’s challenging.”
Smith entered the Flint where Highway 74 crosses in Molena. With an inflatable, stand-up paddleboard, Smith used plastic-covered maps to plan his route and stay on course. His goal for the first day was to stay dry, see sights, and find a suitable camp to face the 29-degree nighttime weather.
After paddling a substantial distance, Smith took a break to fish and prepare some of the pre-packaged food he brought along for the journey before realizing that he forgot his hammock. Smith decided sleeping on the paddleboard would be the best option. He used tarps to stay protected from weather, while searching for the most “bearable” sleeping position possible on a non-cushioned board.
“It’s always an adventure,” commented Smith. “Something like forgetting your hammock is what makes it fun. You never sit around and tell stories of trips that went perfectly.”
Smith began his YouTube channel in 2008 as a way to document the adventures that “give me the great adventure that I crave,” said Smith. His channel has now grown to more than 55,000 subscribers. He had heard of the Flint and its many mountains and bluffs, but after being put in contact with Upson County Manager Jason Tinsley and learning more about Sprewell Bluff, he knew he wanted to head this way.
He noted several “firsts,” that came from the trip, including watching deer swim across the river. On day two, Smith spotted a beaver beside his camp when he woke and several abandoned automobiles while taking a break from the water to hike.
Paddling closer to Sprewell Bluff, Smith found his next mapped-out stop and hiked a steep incline to one of the Sprewell Bluff cabins, where he found a gift basket of local souvenirs, snacks, and a few supplies.
After spending the rest of day two venturing around the cabin sight and visiting the overlook deck, Smith woke early and followed maps and trails to find his paddleboard and complete the journey.
“The signage on these trails is phenomenal,” commented Smith. “Whoever did this, you’re doing an awesome job.”
Day three began with a race against the weather, in hopes of finding his paddleboard and rain jacket before rain began pouring. Once the gear was spotted, Smith faced shallow waters and a few small rapids before reaching Sprewell Bluff Park to end the day.
Smith’s journey down the Flint River and other camping adventures are accessible on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHX_7u8eg0g.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
Alabama first responder and nature enthusiast Trip Smith recently paddled down the Flint River while documenting the three-day camping journey.
When the Dothan fire fighter isn’t at work, he spends his time paddling throughout the Southeast and shares his overnight camping adventures with the world through his YouTube channel. Smith has ventured through many rivers and springs in south Alabama and Florida, including the Florida Keys and Florida Panhandle, but told the Upson Beacon that he has never paddled rivers with bluffs like the Flint.
“I Like to find places with good things to look at like clear water, bluffs and mountains,” said Smith. “I enjoy it because of the ‘fear of the unknown’ and because it’s challenging.”
Smith entered the Flint where Highway 74 crosses in Molena. With an inflatable, stand-up paddleboard, Smith used plastic-covered maps to plan his route and stay on course. His goal for the first day was to stay dry, see sights, and find a suitable camp to face the 29-degree nighttime weather.
After paddling a substantial distance, Smith took a break to fish and prepare some of the pre-packaged food he brought along for the journey before realizing that he forgot his hammock. Smith decided sleeping on the paddleboard would be the best option. He used tarps to stay protected from weather, while searching for the most “bearable” sleeping position possible on a non-cushioned board.
“It’s always an adventure,” commented Smith. “Something like forgetting your hammock is what makes it fun. You never sit around and tell stories of trips that went perfectly.”
Smith began his YouTube channel in 2008 as a way to document the adventures that “give me the great adventure that I crave,” said Smith. His channel has now grown to more than 55,000 subscribers. He had heard of the Flint and its many mountains and bluffs, but after being put in contact with Upson County Manager Jason Tinsley and learning more about Sprewell Bluff, he knew he wanted to head this way.
He noted several “firsts,” that came from the trip, including watching deer swim across the river. On day two, Smith spotted a beaver beside his camp when he woke and several abandoned automobiles while taking a break from the water to hike.
Paddling closer to Sprewell Bluff, Smith found his next mapped-out stop and hiked a steep incline to one of the Sprewell Bluff cabins, where he found a gift basket of local souvenirs, snacks, and a few supplies.
After spending the rest of day two venturing around the cabin sight and visiting the overlook deck, Smith woke early and followed maps and trails to find his paddleboard and complete the journey.
“The signage on these trails is phenomenal,” commented Smith. “Whoever did this, you’re doing an awesome job.”
Day three began with a race against the weather, in hopes of finding his paddleboard and rain jacket before rain began pouring. Once the gear was spotted, Smith faced shallow waters and a few small rapids before reaching Sprewell Bluff Park to end the day.
Smith’s journey down the Flint River and other camping adventures are accessible on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHX_7u8eg0g.
Christmas Kitchen Feeds Families for the Holidays
Published 12-31-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The 16th annual Christmas Kitchen was held Saturday at The Thomaston-Upson Senior Center.
Different than previous years, members of the Christmas Kitchen organization welcomed families into the senior center parking lot as 2,000 pre-packaged frozen dinners were distributed to families who were asked to remain in their car, due to COVID-19 safety recommendations.
Members of First United Methodist Church of Thomaston were present to distribute bags of hats, scarves, and throws.
Dinners were delivered to residents of Triune Village, Fairview Apartments, and Drake Heights, while any leftover dinners were donated to Pass the Salt and House of Care Ministries, as well as the Families Feeding Families organization.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The 16th annual Christmas Kitchen was held Saturday at The Thomaston-Upson Senior Center.
Different than previous years, members of the Christmas Kitchen organization welcomed families into the senior center parking lot as 2,000 pre-packaged frozen dinners were distributed to families who were asked to remain in their car, due to COVID-19 safety recommendations.
Members of First United Methodist Church of Thomaston were present to distribute bags of hats, scarves, and throws.
Dinners were delivered to residents of Triune Village, Fairview Apartments, and Drake Heights, while any leftover dinners were donated to Pass the Salt and House of Care Ministries, as well as the Families Feeding Families organization.
Presley Earns Distinguished Service Award
Michael Presley
Published 12-24-2020
At its 2020 virtual annual meeting, the Georgia Institute of Transportation Engineers presented Michael Presley of Thomaston with the Carl Bevins Distinguished Service Award.
Presley has served the Georgia Department of Transportation's District 3/West Central region as district engineer since 2015. In total, he has worked with distinction at the Georgia DOT for 26 years.
The award is named for Georgia's first traffic operations engineer and recognizes the work of outstanding professional engineers who have focused on traffic operations or transportation throughout their careers. At today's ceremony, Presley was cited for consistently promoting leading-edge, modern traffic operations, highlighting transportation safety, and maintaining an attitude of continuous improvement.
Under his leadership, District 3 was the first GDOT region to install and administer a traffic management center outside of Atlanta. His support of innovative intersections and improved signal operations has greatly benefited the West Central Georgia region, making it a model for other regions and municipalities across the state.
Advisory: Motorists are advised to expect delays, exercise caution, and reduce their speed while traveling through work zones, including the Highway 19 North widening project in Upson County. Before heading out, get real-time information on work status and traffic conditions. Call 511, visit 511ga.org, or download the Georgia 511 app.
At its 2020 virtual annual meeting, the Georgia Institute of Transportation Engineers presented Michael Presley of Thomaston with the Carl Bevins Distinguished Service Award.
Presley has served the Georgia Department of Transportation's District 3/West Central region as district engineer since 2015. In total, he has worked with distinction at the Georgia DOT for 26 years.
The award is named for Georgia's first traffic operations engineer and recognizes the work of outstanding professional engineers who have focused on traffic operations or transportation throughout their careers. At today's ceremony, Presley was cited for consistently promoting leading-edge, modern traffic operations, highlighting transportation safety, and maintaining an attitude of continuous improvement.
Under his leadership, District 3 was the first GDOT region to install and administer a traffic management center outside of Atlanta. His support of innovative intersections and improved signal operations has greatly benefited the West Central Georgia region, making it a model for other regions and municipalities across the state.
Advisory: Motorists are advised to expect delays, exercise caution, and reduce their speed while traveling through work zones, including the Highway 19 North widening project in Upson County. Before heading out, get real-time information on work status and traffic conditions. Call 511, visit 511ga.org, or download the Georgia 511 app.
GDOT Announces Suspension of
Road Closures for Holidays
Exercise Added Caution on Roadways
Published 12-24-2020
To ease the stresses of the holiday season the Georgia Department of Transportation has announced the suspension of construction-related lane closures on heavily traveled interstate highways and state routes near major shopping areas and tourist locations from 5 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020 for the Christmas holiday.
Restrictions are also in place for the New Year’s holiday from 5 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020 to 5 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021. The statewide lane restrictions allow reduced traffic congestion during the winter holidays, according to a GDOT press release.
“Although traffic volumes were down earlier this year due to COVID-19, unfortunately, fatalities on our roadways have been up,” said GDOT State Construction Engineer John D. Hancock. “I urge drivers traveling this season to watch your speed, put down your cell phones, be alert, and make sure you and your passengers buckle up. Let’s make sure everyone has a happy holiday.”
While lane closures will be suspended, the department encourages travelers to exercise caution as work zone crews may still be in close proximity to highways, and safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures to remain in place. In addition, incident management or emergency, maintenance-related lane closures could become necessary at any time on any route.
To help ensure this season of joy is not marred by tragedy, GDOT advises holiday revelers to avoid drinking and driving. Please designate a sober driver in advance or utilize a ride-share or taxi service, the release urged.
Motorists are also reminded to drive defensively, and exercise extra caution during the season. Slow down and “Drive Alert, Arrive Alive.” Always maintain a moderate speed that is safe for current roadway conditions. Remember, as temperatures drop, any amount of precipitation can freeze and create a hazardous road condition. Should inclement weather occur during the season, GDOT is ready to treat the roads with brine, gravel, and salt.
For up-to-date information about travel conditions on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, call 511 or visit www.511ga.org before heading out. *511 is a free service that provides real-time statewide information on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, including traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
To ease the stresses of the holiday season the Georgia Department of Transportation has announced the suspension of construction-related lane closures on heavily traveled interstate highways and state routes near major shopping areas and tourist locations from 5 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020 for the Christmas holiday.
Restrictions are also in place for the New Year’s holiday from 5 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020 to 5 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021. The statewide lane restrictions allow reduced traffic congestion during the winter holidays, according to a GDOT press release.
“Although traffic volumes were down earlier this year due to COVID-19, unfortunately, fatalities on our roadways have been up,” said GDOT State Construction Engineer John D. Hancock. “I urge drivers traveling this season to watch your speed, put down your cell phones, be alert, and make sure you and your passengers buckle up. Let’s make sure everyone has a happy holiday.”
While lane closures will be suspended, the department encourages travelers to exercise caution as work zone crews may still be in close proximity to highways, and safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures to remain in place. In addition, incident management or emergency, maintenance-related lane closures could become necessary at any time on any route.
To help ensure this season of joy is not marred by tragedy, GDOT advises holiday revelers to avoid drinking and driving. Please designate a sober driver in advance or utilize a ride-share or taxi service, the release urged.
Motorists are also reminded to drive defensively, and exercise extra caution during the season. Slow down and “Drive Alert, Arrive Alive.” Always maintain a moderate speed that is safe for current roadway conditions. Remember, as temperatures drop, any amount of precipitation can freeze and create a hazardous road condition. Should inclement weather occur during the season, GDOT is ready to treat the roads with brine, gravel, and salt.
For up-to-date information about travel conditions on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, call 511 or visit www.511ga.org before heading out. *511 is a free service that provides real-time statewide information on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, including traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
SERTOMA Prepares for ESF Distribution
Published 12-24-2020
Members of the Thomaston SERTOMA Club visited all Thomaston-Upson Schools to collect canned foods for the annual Empty Stocking Fund Program.
Cans collected from the schools include 3,469 from Upson Lee Elementary, about 3,100 from UL Primary, 2,780 cans from UL Pre-K, 786 from UL Middle School, and 450 from UL High School.
Every year, the SERTOMA Club partners with the Empty Stocking Fund Program to assemble, arrange, and pack boxes of canned goods and toys to be distributed throughout the community to families in need.
Members of the Thomaston SERTOMA Club visited all Thomaston-Upson Schools to collect canned foods for the annual Empty Stocking Fund Program.
Cans collected from the schools include 3,469 from Upson Lee Elementary, about 3,100 from UL Primary, 2,780 cans from UL Pre-K, 786 from UL Middle School, and 450 from UL High School.
Every year, the SERTOMA Club partners with the Empty Stocking Fund Program to assemble, arrange, and pack boxes of canned goods and toys to be distributed throughout the community to families in need.
Christmas Kitchen Slated Saturday
Published 12-17-2020
The 16th annual Christmas Kitchen will take place Dec. 19, but will be different than past years, due to COVID-19 safety recommendations.
During the 2020 Christmas Kitchen, pre-packaged frozen dinners will be available for pick-up at the Upson County Senior Center, located at 302 South Bethel Street.
Board Member Linda Best said, “This year we are not asking for food donations or volunteers but are in great need of financial contributions. We will miss the joyous camaraderie that all our volunteers experience and hope so much that we can return to our previous schedule next year. We would never have been able to do this project for so long without the generosity of so many in this community, and we hope we can count on you again.”
To pickup the pre-packaged meal, enter Bethel Street from the Mallory Street (South) entrance. Signs and local law enforcement will be directing traffic into the Senior Center parking lot. All are asked to remain in vehicles and drive under the portico of the Senior Center where volunteers will distribute meals. Christmas Kitchen officials ask that no one lines up before 10 a.m.
Residents of Triune Village, Fairview Apartments or Drake Heights will not need to visit the Senior Center to obtain a meal. Volunteers will be distributing meals to those residences around 10 a.m. to reduce traffic.
Members of the First United Methodist Church will be present to distribute hats, gloves, scarfs and throws.
A bank account at Colony Bank has been set up for monetary donations to Christmas Kitchen and board members can be contacted if anyone requires a tax ID number.
Board members include:
•Ralph and Linda Best: 706-647-5297
•Marcie Bradberry: 770-712-7521
•Cindy Chapman: 706-668-3100
•Betty McLeod: 706-647-5834
•Ken Pullin: 706-304-9300
•Vanessa Searcy: 706-741-8379
•Larry Ward: 706-656-3131
The 16th annual Christmas Kitchen will take place Dec. 19, but will be different than past years, due to COVID-19 safety recommendations.
During the 2020 Christmas Kitchen, pre-packaged frozen dinners will be available for pick-up at the Upson County Senior Center, located at 302 South Bethel Street.
Board Member Linda Best said, “This year we are not asking for food donations or volunteers but are in great need of financial contributions. We will miss the joyous camaraderie that all our volunteers experience and hope so much that we can return to our previous schedule next year. We would never have been able to do this project for so long without the generosity of so many in this community, and we hope we can count on you again.”
To pickup the pre-packaged meal, enter Bethel Street from the Mallory Street (South) entrance. Signs and local law enforcement will be directing traffic into the Senior Center parking lot. All are asked to remain in vehicles and drive under the portico of the Senior Center where volunteers will distribute meals. Christmas Kitchen officials ask that no one lines up before 10 a.m.
Residents of Triune Village, Fairview Apartments or Drake Heights will not need to visit the Senior Center to obtain a meal. Volunteers will be distributing meals to those residences around 10 a.m. to reduce traffic.
Members of the First United Methodist Church will be present to distribute hats, gloves, scarfs and throws.
A bank account at Colony Bank has been set up for monetary donations to Christmas Kitchen and board members can be contacted if anyone requires a tax ID number.
Board members include:
•Ralph and Linda Best: 706-647-5297
•Marcie Bradberry: 770-712-7521
•Cindy Chapman: 706-668-3100
•Betty McLeod: 706-647-5834
•Ken Pullin: 706-304-9300
•Vanessa Searcy: 706-741-8379
•Larry Ward: 706-656-3131
URMC Receives National Rating of ‘A’ for Safety
Published 12-17-2020
Upson Regional Medical Center was awarded an “A” in the fall 2020 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing Upson’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care.
The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade assigns an A, B, C, D, or F rating to all general hospitals across the country and is updated every six months. It is based on a hospital’s performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, infections, and other harms to patients in their care.
“Everyone who is a part of Upson Regional has been important in helping us achieve this honor. This has been a most unusual year for us, making our achievement of this honor in 2020 seem even more special,” URMC Chief Executive Officer Jeff Tarrant.
“We are extremely grateful to hospital leadership and health care workers who have remained steadfast in prioritizing patient safety as our nation battles COVID-19,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “This “A” is a testament to the care and commitment of those who work for Upson Regional Medical Center. With the current pandemic exposing existing flaws within the U.S. health care system, we appreciate you putting patient safety first. Lives depend on it.”
Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public.
Upson Regional Medical Center was awarded an “A” grade Dec. 14, 2020, when Leapfrog updated grades for fall 2020. To see URMC’s full grade details and access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit hospitalsafetygrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Twitter and Facebook.
Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey and new Leapfrog Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Survey collect and transparently report hospital and ASC performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions.
Upson Regional Medical Center was awarded an “A” in the fall 2020 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing Upson’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care.
The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade assigns an A, B, C, D, or F rating to all general hospitals across the country and is updated every six months. It is based on a hospital’s performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, infections, and other harms to patients in their care.
“Everyone who is a part of Upson Regional has been important in helping us achieve this honor. This has been a most unusual year for us, making our achievement of this honor in 2020 seem even more special,” URMC Chief Executive Officer Jeff Tarrant.
“We are extremely grateful to hospital leadership and health care workers who have remained steadfast in prioritizing patient safety as our nation battles COVID-19,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “This “A” is a testament to the care and commitment of those who work for Upson Regional Medical Center. With the current pandemic exposing existing flaws within the U.S. health care system, we appreciate you putting patient safety first. Lives depend on it.”
Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public.
Upson Regional Medical Center was awarded an “A” grade Dec. 14, 2020, when Leapfrog updated grades for fall 2020. To see URMC’s full grade details and access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit hospitalsafetygrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Twitter and Facebook.
Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey and new Leapfrog Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Survey collect and transparently report hospital and ASC performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions.
Local Artists Perform Sounds of the Season
Click the photo above or visit https://lukehaney.smugmug.com/Upson-Beacon-Events/Thomaston-Upson-Arts-Council/Sounds-of-The-Season-2020/ to see more photos from Sounds of The Season!
Campbell and Thomas DeVore perform “I Heard Bells on
Christmas Day” during TUAC’s annual Sounds of the Season production. Click the photo or visit https://lukehaney.smugmug.com/Upson-Beacon-Events/Thomaston-Upson-Arts-Council/Sounds-of-The-Season-2020/ to see more!
Christmas Day” during TUAC’s annual Sounds of the Season production. Click the photo or visit https://lukehaney.smugmug.com/Upson-Beacon-Events/Thomaston-Upson-Arts-Council/Sounds-of-The-Season-2020/ to see more!
‘Car Seat Swap’ is Saturday
L-R: Sgt. Laurence Harrell, Lt. Maurice Raines,
Thomaston Police Chief Mike Richardson, and Lt. Lance Greene.
Published 12-3-2020
The Thomaston Police Department, Georgia State Patrol Post 26, and the Governor’s Department of Highway Safety are joining forces to host a “car seat swap” and educational opportunity locally.
Members of the three law enforcement agencies will hand out new car seats to the first 120 people who turn in damaged and outdated infant and toddler car seats from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Home Depot shopping center. To receive a new car seat, you must have a child and an expired, defective, or broken car seat present to receive a new car seat.
Officials also will educate attendees on proper installation of the new car seats.
The Thomaston Police Department, Georgia State Patrol Post 26, and the Governor’s Department of Highway Safety are joining forces to host a “car seat swap” and educational opportunity locally.
Members of the three law enforcement agencies will hand out new car seats to the first 120 people who turn in damaged and outdated infant and toddler car seats from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Home Depot shopping center. To receive a new car seat, you must have a child and an expired, defective, or broken car seat present to receive a new car seat.
Officials also will educate attendees on proper installation of the new car seats.
TUAC Presents “Sounds of the Season”
Gracyn Fuller, Taylor Phillips and Marti Sommers during the 2019 Sounds of the Season.
Published 12-3-2020
Get your 2020 Christmas holiday off to a musical start by attending “Sounds of the Season” at R.E. Lee auditorium.
We will follow local and state requests because we are committed to the safety of our performers and audience members. Therefore, face masks will be required upon entrance, during breaks, and at closing. So that rules of social distancing may be observed and space enhanced, we are providing two identical performances this year.
The two performance choices will be held Sunday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. or Monday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. Coggins Funeral Home (Jason Thornhill & Ryan Fulghum) is sponsoring the shows, and both shows will be presented by The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council.
“Sounds of the Season” will fill the auditorium as musicians take the stage for a delightfully festive experience. Christmas classics, sacred hymns and familiar carols will be presented by local talent. The annual event offers a spectrum of Christmas music with choices from “O Holy Night” to “It’s the Most Wonderful time of the Year.”
Co-hosts for the evening will be Christen Colwell and Chadwick Lloyd.
Participants will include Adelyn Bishoff, Peyton Chapman, Kaylan Dawson, Campbell DeVore, Thomas DeVore, Carmen Ellerbee, Gracyn Fuller, Riley Greer, Landon Hughes, Rachel Jordan, Jeff & Shari Lewis, Kit Logan, Cara Mackey, Chad Lloyd, Kate Morgan, Luke Morgan, Skye Perdue, Taylor Phillips, Marti Sommers and Hope Williams.
Gather your family and friends and head to town for a musical event that is sure to be the highlight of the Christmas season.
Tickets are on sale now at the TUAC Gallery and by phone. Student tickets are $5 and adult tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. TUAC is located at 201 South Center Street, on the square in Thomaston. For more information, call 706-647-1605.
Get your 2020 Christmas holiday off to a musical start by attending “Sounds of the Season” at R.E. Lee auditorium.
We will follow local and state requests because we are committed to the safety of our performers and audience members. Therefore, face masks will be required upon entrance, during breaks, and at closing. So that rules of social distancing may be observed and space enhanced, we are providing two identical performances this year.
The two performance choices will be held Sunday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. or Monday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. Coggins Funeral Home (Jason Thornhill & Ryan Fulghum) is sponsoring the shows, and both shows will be presented by The Thomaston-Upson Arts Council.
“Sounds of the Season” will fill the auditorium as musicians take the stage for a delightfully festive experience. Christmas classics, sacred hymns and familiar carols will be presented by local talent. The annual event offers a spectrum of Christmas music with choices from “O Holy Night” to “It’s the Most Wonderful time of the Year.”
Co-hosts for the evening will be Christen Colwell and Chadwick Lloyd.
Participants will include Adelyn Bishoff, Peyton Chapman, Kaylan Dawson, Campbell DeVore, Thomas DeVore, Carmen Ellerbee, Gracyn Fuller, Riley Greer, Landon Hughes, Rachel Jordan, Jeff & Shari Lewis, Kit Logan, Cara Mackey, Chad Lloyd, Kate Morgan, Luke Morgan, Skye Perdue, Taylor Phillips, Marti Sommers and Hope Williams.
Gather your family and friends and head to town for a musical event that is sure to be the highlight of the Christmas season.
Tickets are on sale now at the TUAC Gallery and by phone. Student tickets are $5 and adult tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. TUAC is located at 201 South Center Street, on the square in Thomaston. For more information, call 706-647-1605.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa Ranked Sixth in Industry
Published 11-26-2020
The 2020 Top 50 List of Conveyor Carwashes is published annually by Professional Carwashing & Detailing magazine. Tidal Wave Auto Spa jumped from the number 10 spot in 2019 to the sixth spot on the 2020 list.
Tidal Wave opened its first express car wash and revolutionized the car wash industry in 2004. This first express wash, which ultimately became Tidal Wave’s signature model, was located in metro Atlanta. Its success with the public attracted visits from industry insiders from across the country. Tidal Wave’s founders traveled across the Southeast researching ways to improve the model.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa values the customer experience, providing educational opportunities for our team members, giving back to our communities and charitable organizations, and offering our customers a superior clean with every visit.
“We have the world’s best customers and the world’s best team, and for that we are so humbly grateful,” said Scott Blackstock, CEO and founder.
The home office, headquartered in Thomaston, staffs and supports all Tidal Wave operations. Tidal Wave Auto Spa will have 63 locations in nine states by the end of 2020. Tidal Wave Auto Spa was also named one of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies on Inc. 5000’s 2020 list.
See the full list at https://www.carwash.com/2020-top-50-list-conveyor-carwashes/.
The 2020 Top 50 List of Conveyor Carwashes is published annually by Professional Carwashing & Detailing magazine. Tidal Wave Auto Spa jumped from the number 10 spot in 2019 to the sixth spot on the 2020 list.
Tidal Wave opened its first express car wash and revolutionized the car wash industry in 2004. This first express wash, which ultimately became Tidal Wave’s signature model, was located in metro Atlanta. Its success with the public attracted visits from industry insiders from across the country. Tidal Wave’s founders traveled across the Southeast researching ways to improve the model.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa values the customer experience, providing educational opportunities for our team members, giving back to our communities and charitable organizations, and offering our customers a superior clean with every visit.
“We have the world’s best customers and the world’s best team, and for that we are so humbly grateful,” said Scott Blackstock, CEO and founder.
The home office, headquartered in Thomaston, staffs and supports all Tidal Wave operations. Tidal Wave Auto Spa will have 63 locations in nine states by the end of 2020. Tidal Wave Auto Spa was also named one of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies on Inc. 5000’s 2020 list.
See the full list at https://www.carwash.com/2020-top-50-list-conveyor-carwashes/.
Heating Assistance Available for Upson County Residents
Published 11-26-2020
The Middle Georgia Community Action Agency has heating assistance available for households where all members are 65 years of age or older or homebound. Households may contact the following scheduling system for an appointment beginning on Nov. 2.
All other income eligible households may contact the system to schedule an appointment or to be placed on a waiting list beginning Dec. 1.
For appointments, call 1-844-588-1552 or go online to https://mgcaa.appointment.works/ea/home.
Appointments are made by phone or online only.
To be eligible for assistance, households must have an income at or below 60 percent of the state median income level, which amounts to:
•$25,025: One-person Household
•$32,725: Two-person Household
•$40,425: Three-person Household
•$48,125: Four-person Household
•$55,825: Five-person Household
•$63,525: Six-person Household
•$64,969: Seven-person Household
•$66,413: Eight-person Household
A minimum of the following items will be required to verify eligibility for assistance:
•Verification of all household income for every person living in the home for the past 30 days.
•Social Security Cards for every person living in the household.
•A state issued ID or driver’s license for everyone over the age of 18 in household.
•Recent heating bill with the service address and account number printed on it.
•Recent electric bill for residence verification.
This program is available to all eligible applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, political beliefs, or handicap.
The Middle Georgia Community Action Agency has heating assistance available for households where all members are 65 years of age or older or homebound. Households may contact the following scheduling system for an appointment beginning on Nov. 2.
All other income eligible households may contact the system to schedule an appointment or to be placed on a waiting list beginning Dec. 1.
For appointments, call 1-844-588-1552 or go online to https://mgcaa.appointment.works/ea/home.
Appointments are made by phone or online only.
To be eligible for assistance, households must have an income at or below 60 percent of the state median income level, which amounts to:
•$25,025: One-person Household
•$32,725: Two-person Household
•$40,425: Three-person Household
•$48,125: Four-person Household
•$55,825: Five-person Household
•$63,525: Six-person Household
•$64,969: Seven-person Household
•$66,413: Eight-person Household
A minimum of the following items will be required to verify eligibility for assistance:
•Verification of all household income for every person living in the home for the past 30 days.
•Social Security Cards for every person living in the household.
•A state issued ID or driver’s license for everyone over the age of 18 in household.
•Recent heating bill with the service address and account number printed on it.
•Recent electric bill for residence verification.
This program is available to all eligible applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, political beliefs, or handicap.
Friday is Deadline To Apply for ESF; Volunteers Needed
Published 11-19-2020
Friday, Nov. 20 is the deadline to apply for Empty Stocking Fund assistance this year, and Director Heather Blackmon says the ministry needs volunteers to assist throughout the holiday process.
Blackmon’s late husband, Rev. Matthew Blackmon, directed the effort the past two years.
“He really enjoyed directing this ministry and had a passion for helping families in our community,” Blackmon said of Matthew. “It is a pleasure and an honor to be taking his place this year… my heart is in it. Matthew believed in this ministry and what it could do in the lives of the people in this community.”
There are many ways to get involved with empty stocking fund, including sponsorships, family sponsors, and volunteers, according to Blackmon. An ESF sponsor is a business, organization, or individual who donates funds to the ESF. A “family sponsor” is when a person, family, or group adopts a family or families and supplies other things for their ESF boxes. Volunteers are need for packing boxes and loading boxes on distribution day.
“For family sponsors, this year we are requesting that the boxes stay at the Shiloh Baptist Church gym due to COVID and the sponsors bring the items to the gym by Tuesday, Dec. 15,” Blackmon said. “If you would like to sponsor a family, call me and I will be happy to give you the info you need to do that.”
Distribution day will be Saturday, Dec. 19 and volunteers are needed to help load boxes in the ESF families’ vehicles as they drive through for pick up. Also, boxes will be packed the week of Dec. 11-18, another opportunity for volunteer contributions.
Blackmon may be reached on Facebook or at 706-601-4520.
Friday, Nov. 20 is the deadline to apply for Empty Stocking Fund assistance this year, and Director Heather Blackmon says the ministry needs volunteers to assist throughout the holiday process.
Blackmon’s late husband, Rev. Matthew Blackmon, directed the effort the past two years.
“He really enjoyed directing this ministry and had a passion for helping families in our community,” Blackmon said of Matthew. “It is a pleasure and an honor to be taking his place this year… my heart is in it. Matthew believed in this ministry and what it could do in the lives of the people in this community.”
There are many ways to get involved with empty stocking fund, including sponsorships, family sponsors, and volunteers, according to Blackmon. An ESF sponsor is a business, organization, or individual who donates funds to the ESF. A “family sponsor” is when a person, family, or group adopts a family or families and supplies other things for their ESF boxes. Volunteers are need for packing boxes and loading boxes on distribution day.
“For family sponsors, this year we are requesting that the boxes stay at the Shiloh Baptist Church gym due to COVID and the sponsors bring the items to the gym by Tuesday, Dec. 15,” Blackmon said. “If you would like to sponsor a family, call me and I will be happy to give you the info you need to do that.”
Distribution day will be Saturday, Dec. 19 and volunteers are needed to help load boxes in the ESF families’ vehicles as they drive through for pick up. Also, boxes will be packed the week of Dec. 11-18, another opportunity for volunteer contributions.
Blackmon may be reached on Facebook or at 706-601-4520.
TPD Reports Arrests for Aggravated
Assault & Discharging Firearm
Published 11-19-2020
One man was charged with aggravated assault following an attack at a Northside convenience store and another was arrested for discharging firearms within the city limits, according to reports from the Thomaston Police Department.
Justin L. Quick was charged with aggravated assault for attacking Michael Smith Sunday at the Shell station located at 1078 Highway 19 North. Video security footage showed Quick using an extendable baton to choke Smith, rendering him unconscious, the report stated. While Smith lay unconscious, Quick kicked him once and walked out of the store.
Jealousy likely was the motive for the attack, according to witnesses, because the victim was in the store with the assailant’s “wife.”
Jamar Rashad Culwell of West County Road in Thomaston was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and discharging firearms within the city limits stemming from an incident at Thomaston Gardens Apartments last week.
Two witnesses stated that Culwell fired a weapon “in the air once,” then shouted profane and threatening remarks toward them. According to the report, Culwell said, “I will kill everybody out here. I don’t give a f--k about the police, I will kill them too.”
Culwell was apprehended near Planet Fitness, and no firearm was found in his possession, the report stated. He also was charged with criminal street gang activity and reckless conduct, according to a report obtained from the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.
In an unrelated TPD arrest, Lontavius Jamal Ross was charged with aggravated assault (Family Violence Act), according to the UCSO report.
One man was charged with aggravated assault following an attack at a Northside convenience store and another was arrested for discharging firearms within the city limits, according to reports from the Thomaston Police Department.
Justin L. Quick was charged with aggravated assault for attacking Michael Smith Sunday at the Shell station located at 1078 Highway 19 North. Video security footage showed Quick using an extendable baton to choke Smith, rendering him unconscious, the report stated. While Smith lay unconscious, Quick kicked him once and walked out of the store.
Jealousy likely was the motive for the attack, according to witnesses, because the victim was in the store with the assailant’s “wife.”
Jamar Rashad Culwell of West County Road in Thomaston was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and discharging firearms within the city limits stemming from an incident at Thomaston Gardens Apartments last week.
Two witnesses stated that Culwell fired a weapon “in the air once,” then shouted profane and threatening remarks toward them. According to the report, Culwell said, “I will kill everybody out here. I don’t give a f--k about the police, I will kill them too.”
Culwell was apprehended near Planet Fitness, and no firearm was found in his possession, the report stated. He also was charged with criminal street gang activity and reckless conduct, according to a report obtained from the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.
In an unrelated TPD arrest, Lontavius Jamal Ross was charged with aggravated assault (Family Violence Act), according to the UCSO report.
Veterans Day Observance is Wednesday
Published 11-5-2020
A Veterans Day Event will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Wreaths will be laid in honor of veterans in World War I; World War II; The Korean War; the Vietnam War; The Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan Wars.
The program will be conducted by members of the Upson Lee NJROTC and is sponsored by The American Legion: Pete Thurston Post 81, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81, Lucius Worthy Post 532, and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 532.
A Veterans Day Event will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Wreaths will be laid in honor of veterans in World War I; World War II; The Korean War; the Vietnam War; The Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan Wars.
The program will be conducted by members of the Upson Lee NJROTC and is sponsored by The American Legion: Pete Thurston Post 81, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81, Lucius Worthy Post 532, and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 532.
Activities Resume at Senior Center Monday
Published 11-5-2020
Regular activities will resume with precautionary measures at the Thomaston-Upson Senior Center starting at 8 a.m. Monday, Nov. 9, according to Director Donna Auth.
Activities resuming will include bridge and other card games, quilting, exercise classes, and use of exercise equipment. Line dancing, body groove, and yoga classes will resume shortly thereafter, Auth says.
“Retired citizen” club activities and daily lunch service also will return. Anyone wishing to participate may contact the senior center at 706-647-1607 to register.
Temperatures will be scanned upon arrival, and masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer will be available for the protection of participants.
“We have taken all precautionary measures to ensure safety for all of our seniors that will come into the center,” Auth said. “We are looking forward to seeing everyone.”
Regular activities will resume with precautionary measures at the Thomaston-Upson Senior Center starting at 8 a.m. Monday, Nov. 9, according to Director Donna Auth.
Activities resuming will include bridge and other card games, quilting, exercise classes, and use of exercise equipment. Line dancing, body groove, and yoga classes will resume shortly thereafter, Auth says.
“Retired citizen” club activities and daily lunch service also will return. Anyone wishing to participate may contact the senior center at 706-647-1607 to register.
Temperatures will be scanned upon arrival, and masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer will be available for the protection of participants.
“We have taken all precautionary measures to ensure safety for all of our seniors that will come into the center,” Auth said. “We are looking forward to seeing everyone.”
Miles Receives Service to Mankind Award
Published 10-29-2020
Linda Miles received the 2020 Service to Mankind Award last Thursday night at the annual Service to Mankind Dinner, hosted by the Thomaston SERTOMA Club.
Born in Texas, Miles was reared in Upson County. She is the daughter of the late Tex and Irene Peugh Holmes. She is a graduate of R.E. Lee Institute and Georgia Baptist Hospital School of Nursing.
Miles worked a lengthy career at Upson Regional Medical Center as a floor nurse, supervisor, and worked in the Intensive Care Unit and Recovery Room.
She taught health occupation classes through the local school systems where students had the ability to work in areas of the hospital, pharmacies, doctor’s offices, and nursing homes as they pursued their interest in the health care field. She also worked with Allied Health through Flint Tech and Griffin Tech.
Miles was a member of First Baptist Church and served as organist and pianist in the worship services and has also played for the Builders Sunday School Class and in numerous funerals and activities of the congregation.
In retirement, Miles has continued to serve mankind as a scheduler with the local Cancer Car Ministry. As a scheduler, she assists patients and their families by scheduling treatments, obtaining drivers and keeping books, while occasionally serving as a driver.
In her free time, Miles enjoys crocheting and needlepoint. Her designs have graced the covers of magazines. Miles has won numerous blue ribbons for her creations.
Throughout her life, Miles has served mankind in her vocation, spiritual life, and her commitment to the needs and hopes of others in her retirement. The Thomaston SERTOMA Club is honored to present Linda Miles with the 2020 Service to Mankind Award.
Linda Miles received the 2020 Service to Mankind Award last Thursday night at the annual Service to Mankind Dinner, hosted by the Thomaston SERTOMA Club.
Born in Texas, Miles was reared in Upson County. She is the daughter of the late Tex and Irene Peugh Holmes. She is a graduate of R.E. Lee Institute and Georgia Baptist Hospital School of Nursing.
Miles worked a lengthy career at Upson Regional Medical Center as a floor nurse, supervisor, and worked in the Intensive Care Unit and Recovery Room.
She taught health occupation classes through the local school systems where students had the ability to work in areas of the hospital, pharmacies, doctor’s offices, and nursing homes as they pursued their interest in the health care field. She also worked with Allied Health through Flint Tech and Griffin Tech.
Miles was a member of First Baptist Church and served as organist and pianist in the worship services and has also played for the Builders Sunday School Class and in numerous funerals and activities of the congregation.
In retirement, Miles has continued to serve mankind as a scheduler with the local Cancer Car Ministry. As a scheduler, she assists patients and their families by scheduling treatments, obtaining drivers and keeping books, while occasionally serving as a driver.
In her free time, Miles enjoys crocheting and needlepoint. Her designs have graced the covers of magazines. Miles has won numerous blue ribbons for her creations.
Throughout her life, Miles has served mankind in her vocation, spiritual life, and her commitment to the needs and hopes of others in her retirement. The Thomaston SERTOMA Club is honored to present Linda Miles with the 2020 Service to Mankind Award.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
Published 10-29-2020
Upson County reported 833 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 70 deaths and 97 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of seven from the 826 confirmed cases, increase of one death, and increase of five hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was seven during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 31.7 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 0.3 from 31.4 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 0.2 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 351,881 cases (10,571 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 8,999) as of noon Tuesday, with 31,087 hospitalized (up 699/prior week’s increase was 732) and 7,827 deaths (up 170/prior week’s increase was 228).
Georgia ranks sixth among 50 states for positive cases, behind Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Illinois.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 754 (27.2 per 1,000) and 53 deaths, 88 hospitalized; Meriwether with 595 (28.3 per 1,000) and 16 deaths, 78 hospitalized; Lamar, 421 (21.8 per 1,000) and 20 deaths, 45 hospitalized; Pike, 385 (20.4 per 1,000) with 11 deaths and 31 hospitalized; Taylor, 229 (28.8 per 1,000) with 12 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 195 (15.9 per 1,000) with six deaths and 29 hospitalized; and Talbot, 174 (28.3 per 1,000) with eight deaths and 26 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) remained at 263 (no change) during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
There have been no increases in positive tests among residents and staff, and no new COVID-related deaths for more than three weeks at any of the three nursing homes reporting.
The report shows Harborview (96 residents/96 tested) with 74 resident cases (no change), 55 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (no change), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (78 residents/80 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (50 residents/90 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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 833 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 70 deaths and 97 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of seven from the 826 confirmed cases, increase of one death, and increase of five hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was seven during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 31.7 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 0.3 from 31.4 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 0.2 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 351,881 cases (10,571 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 8,999) as of noon Tuesday, with 31,087 hospitalized (up 699/prior week’s increase was 732) and 7,827 deaths (up 170/prior week’s increase was 228).
Georgia ranks sixth among 50 states for positive cases, behind Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Illinois.
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 754 (27.2 per 1,000) and 53 deaths, 88 hospitalized; Meriwether with 595 (28.3 per 1,000) and 16 deaths, 78 hospitalized; Lamar, 421 (21.8 per 1,000) and 20 deaths, 45 hospitalized; Pike, 385 (20.4 per 1,000) with 11 deaths and 31 hospitalized; Taylor, 229 (28.8 per 1,000) with 12 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 195 (15.9 per 1,000) with six deaths and 29 hospitalized; and Talbot, 174 (28.3 per 1,000) with eight deaths and 26 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) remained at 263 (no change) during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
There have been no increases in positive tests among residents and staff, and no new COVID-related deaths for more than three weeks at any of the three nursing homes reporting.
The report shows Harborview (96 residents/96 tested) with 74 resident cases (no change), 55 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (no change), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (78 residents/80 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (50 residents/90 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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.
No New COVID Cases in 3 Nursing Homes
Published 10-22-2020
Upson County reported 826 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 69 deaths and 92 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of seven from the 819 confirmed cases, increase of two deaths, and increase of four hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was 16 during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 31.4 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 0.2 from 31.2 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 0.5 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 341,310 cases (8,999 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 8,597) as of noon Tuesday, with 30,388 hospitalized (up 732/prior week’s increase was 669) and 7,657 deaths (up 228/prior week’s increase was 237).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 744 (26.8 per 1,000) and 54 deaths, 91 hospitalized; Meriwether with 576 (27.4 per 1,000) and 16 deaths, 75 hospitalized; Lamar, 402 (20.8 per 1,000) and 19 deaths, 45 hospitalized; Pike, 375 (19.4 per 1,000) with 12 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Taylor, 225 (28.3 per 1,000) with 12 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 189 (15.5 per 1,000) with six deaths and 28 hospitalized; and Talbot, 169 (27.4 per 1,000) with seven deaths and 25 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) remained at 263 (no change) during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
There have been no increases in positive tests among residents and staff, and no new COVID-related deaths for more than two weeks at any of the three nursing homes reporting.
The report shows Harborview (92 residents/96 tested) with 74 resident cases (no change), 54 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (no change), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (78 residents/80 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (54 residents/86 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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 826 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 69 deaths and 92 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of seven from the 819 confirmed cases, increase of two deaths, and increase of four hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was 16 during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 31.4 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 0.2 from 31.2 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 0.5 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 341,310 cases (8,999 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 8,597) as of noon Tuesday, with 30,388 hospitalized (up 732/prior week’s increase was 669) and 7,657 deaths (up 228/prior week’s increase was 237).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 744 (26.8 per 1,000) and 54 deaths, 91 hospitalized; Meriwether with 576 (27.4 per 1,000) and 16 deaths, 75 hospitalized; Lamar, 402 (20.8 per 1,000) and 19 deaths, 45 hospitalized; Pike, 375 (19.4 per 1,000) with 12 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Taylor, 225 (28.3 per 1,000) with 12 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 189 (15.5 per 1,000) with six deaths and 28 hospitalized; and Talbot, 169 (27.4 per 1,000) with seven deaths and 25 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) remained at 263 (no change) during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
There have been no increases in positive tests among residents and staff, and no new COVID-related deaths for more than two weeks at any of the three nursing homes reporting.
The report shows Harborview (92 residents/96 tested) with 74 resident cases (no change), 54 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (no change), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (78 residents/80 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (54 residents/86 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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.
Puppeteering Dallas Sisters Travel America
The Fourth and Final of a Multi-Part Series on the Weaver-Dallas House
Published 10-15-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas Family is the fourth and final of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property. See the third part in last week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
Upon passing under the curved entryway at the front of the Weaver-Dallas House and walking toward the back hallway, the “Rag-Bag Alley Puppet Theatre” sign comes into sight, situated over a doorway beside the puppet theatre that protrudes from above the home’s staircase. Many folks can still remember sitting upon the staircase and watching the retired Miss Weaver Dallas as she performed puppet shows for friends, houseguests, boy scout troops, ballerina companies, family members, and many more.
Walter and Kate Dallas raised five daughters, two of which became famous puppeteers. After Anna Weaver’s passing, her niece Kate’s family occupied the Weaver-Dallas home. One of the old smokehouses, which at one point was used as a greenhouse, was moved onto a newly poured concrete pad and converted into a puppet workshop for Katheryn and Weaver.
Learning stories from visiting adults in the community and creating animated characters from scraps of materials, Katheryn and Weaver began making puppets. The girls made a name for themselves in the 1920s and ‘30s telling Uncle Remus tales and other folk tales, as well as teaching courses on puppetry and storytelling.
Encouraged by their mother Kate, who was a local elocutionist, the sisters continued their education at Columbia University in New York City, working for Sue Hastings, who ran a puppet company. Shortly after, they founded the “Rag-Bag Alley Puppet Theatre.”
Their touring schedule took them to camps, schools, stores, and children’s theatres throughout the Northeast and North Central region of the United States. The sisters also had puppet patterns and sold scripts and set designs which people could purchase mail order.
In a 1929 newspaper article, Elinor Hillyer writes, “A photograph of the Puppet Show, patchwork quilt curtain, Br’er Rabbit, Br’er Fox and the girls appeared in the April issue of the magazine, Drama, which commented on the originality of the material used by the puppeteers of Thomaston in portraying southern folklore and familiar darky superstitions.
“These girls attribute their success,” it remarked, “to the fact that they wear salt in their skirts to give the toothache to people who say mean things about them.”
In the same article, Weaver is quoted saying, “And already we have 25 to 30 bookings for this season. They’re largely in New England, but we like that because the towns are close together.”
In 1935, the sisters were invited to visit and perform at The White House. In a local 1935 newspaper appears, “Through her secretary, Mrs. J.M. Helm, Mrs. Franklin D. Roosevelt by letter Feb. 27 invited Misses Weaver and Kathryn Dallas to present the Rag Bag Alley Puppets in the White House Monday afternoon, April 22, at 3:00 o’clock, following the annual Easter egg hunt on the White House Lawn for children… The Weaver sisters, daughters of Mrs. W.H. Dallas of 205 Bethel St., have won national fame through the creation of their novel Rag Bag Alley Puppets and the writing of original plays for these characters. These puppets were created in Thomaston, where members of the Dallas family have resided for several generations. Plays interpreting through the medium of the puppets the wistful humor and superstition of the southern folk and portrayals of animal stories have been presented by the Misses Dallas during the past several years from Maine to California on the east and west to Florida on the south.”
After the height of their career, Weaver moved back home and helped her mother care for the family home, overseeing renovations for Kate. She would gain possession of the home after her mother’s passing. Katheryn met Le Grand Henderson while living in New York City, later marrying him.
Known widely under the pen name of “Le Grand,” he was a writer and illustrator of books for all ages.
Born in Torrington, Conn. In 1901, he attended Yale School of Fine Arts before moving to New York City. “He found work designing heating and ventilating equipment, switchboards for submarines, and window and interior displays for Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s,” according to Wikipedia.
His most famous series, the “Augustus Series,” was based on his yearlong journey on a houseboat down the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico. Several of his books, original sketches, and paintings remained in the Weaver-Dallas home until this year’s estate sale of the property.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyle Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas Family is the fourth and final of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property. See the third part in last week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
Upon passing under the curved entryway at the front of the Weaver-Dallas House and walking toward the back hallway, the “Rag-Bag Alley Puppet Theatre” sign comes into sight, situated over a doorway beside the puppet theatre that protrudes from above the home’s staircase. Many folks can still remember sitting upon the staircase and watching the retired Miss Weaver Dallas as she performed puppet shows for friends, houseguests, boy scout troops, ballerina companies, family members, and many more.
Walter and Kate Dallas raised five daughters, two of which became famous puppeteers. After Anna Weaver’s passing, her niece Kate’s family occupied the Weaver-Dallas home. One of the old smokehouses, which at one point was used as a greenhouse, was moved onto a newly poured concrete pad and converted into a puppet workshop for Katheryn and Weaver.
Learning stories from visiting adults in the community and creating animated characters from scraps of materials, Katheryn and Weaver began making puppets. The girls made a name for themselves in the 1920s and ‘30s telling Uncle Remus tales and other folk tales, as well as teaching courses on puppetry and storytelling.
Encouraged by their mother Kate, who was a local elocutionist, the sisters continued their education at Columbia University in New York City, working for Sue Hastings, who ran a puppet company. Shortly after, they founded the “Rag-Bag Alley Puppet Theatre.”
Their touring schedule took them to camps, schools, stores, and children’s theatres throughout the Northeast and North Central region of the United States. The sisters also had puppet patterns and sold scripts and set designs which people could purchase mail order.
In a 1929 newspaper article, Elinor Hillyer writes, “A photograph of the Puppet Show, patchwork quilt curtain, Br’er Rabbit, Br’er Fox and the girls appeared in the April issue of the magazine, Drama, which commented on the originality of the material used by the puppeteers of Thomaston in portraying southern folklore and familiar darky superstitions.
“These girls attribute their success,” it remarked, “to the fact that they wear salt in their skirts to give the toothache to people who say mean things about them.”
In the same article, Weaver is quoted saying, “And already we have 25 to 30 bookings for this season. They’re largely in New England, but we like that because the towns are close together.”
In 1935, the sisters were invited to visit and perform at The White House. In a local 1935 newspaper appears, “Through her secretary, Mrs. J.M. Helm, Mrs. Franklin D. Roosevelt by letter Feb. 27 invited Misses Weaver and Kathryn Dallas to present the Rag Bag Alley Puppets in the White House Monday afternoon, April 22, at 3:00 o’clock, following the annual Easter egg hunt on the White House Lawn for children… The Weaver sisters, daughters of Mrs. W.H. Dallas of 205 Bethel St., have won national fame through the creation of their novel Rag Bag Alley Puppets and the writing of original plays for these characters. These puppets were created in Thomaston, where members of the Dallas family have resided for several generations. Plays interpreting through the medium of the puppets the wistful humor and superstition of the southern folk and portrayals of animal stories have been presented by the Misses Dallas during the past several years from Maine to California on the east and west to Florida on the south.”
After the height of their career, Weaver moved back home and helped her mother care for the family home, overseeing renovations for Kate. She would gain possession of the home after her mother’s passing. Katheryn met Le Grand Henderson while living in New York City, later marrying him.
Known widely under the pen name of “Le Grand,” he was a writer and illustrator of books for all ages.
Born in Torrington, Conn. In 1901, he attended Yale School of Fine Arts before moving to New York City. “He found work designing heating and ventilating equipment, switchboards for submarines, and window and interior displays for Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s,” according to Wikipedia.
His most famous series, the “Augustus Series,” was based on his yearlong journey on a houseboat down the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico. Several of his books, original sketches, and paintings remained in the Weaver-Dallas home until this year’s estate sale of the property.
Tidal Wave Raises $132k for 12th Annual Charity Day
L-R: Amanda Brown & Thomas Skurja of McIntosh Trail and
Jonathan Richardson & Jennifer Rogers of Tidal Wave Auto Spa.
Published 10-15-2020
By Jennifer Rogers, Tidal Wave Marketing
Giving back to the communities we call home is a core value for Tidal Wave Auto Spa. Our 12th Annual Charity Day was held Friday, Sept. 18, raising $132,632 for 43 charities across the nation.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa of Thomaston raised $1,243.06 for the Gilmore Center, McIntosh Trail. McIntosh Trail Community Service Board offers individuals experiencing symptoms associated with mental illness, addictive disease, and/or developmental disability the hope for optimal functioning and recovery by providing quality behavioral health services and supports.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa of Thomaston is located at 607-A North Church Street and is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pictured are Amanda Brown and Thomas Skurja of McIntosh Trail, along with Jonathan Richardson and Jennifer Rogers of Tidal Wave Auto Spa.
By Jennifer Rogers, Tidal Wave Marketing
Giving back to the communities we call home is a core value for Tidal Wave Auto Spa. Our 12th Annual Charity Day was held Friday, Sept. 18, raising $132,632 for 43 charities across the nation.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa of Thomaston raised $1,243.06 for the Gilmore Center, McIntosh Trail. McIntosh Trail Community Service Board offers individuals experiencing symptoms associated with mental illness, addictive disease, and/or developmental disability the hope for optimal functioning and recovery by providing quality behavioral health services and supports.
Tidal Wave Auto Spa of Thomaston is located at 607-A North Church Street and is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pictured are Amanda Brown and Thomas Skurja of McIntosh Trail, along with Jonathan Richardson and Jennifer Rogers of Tidal Wave Auto Spa.
A Family Home Becomes a Boarding House
The Third of a Multi-Part Series on the Weaver-Dallas House
Marianna Maria (Anna) Weaver and Kate Weaver Dallas.
Published 10-8-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas Family is the third of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property. See the second part in last week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
After the passing of Judge Travis A. D. Weaver, the 14-acre property and home, now known as the Weaver-Dallas House, was left to Weaver’s daughter Marianna Maria (Anna) in 1877, who was the oldest surviving child. She also cared for her niece Carrie, whose mother Frances, along with Carrie’s five siblings, passed away from a diphtheria epidemic several years earlier.
Inheriting the home at the age of 44, Anna transformed the home into a boarding house, giving her the ability to make a living while maintaining an independent life. At the time, the second floor of the home consisted of two large rooms, connected to the staircase by a central hallway. She subdivided the rooms, creating four rooms, and removed the curved staircase, replacing it with a smaller and straight staircase, which remains today. She also attached the Doctor’s Shop to the home, closing in part of the porch, making the well accessible without leaving the home.
Many students and educators boarded at the Weaver residence, considering the home’s close proximity to town and Thomaston schools.
Stereotypically in the late 1800s, “spinsterhood” was considered to be a highly avoided fate for life. Anna’s attitude toward marriage was quite different. In a letter to her niece Kate Weaver Dallas, she wrote “How is Alvah’s wife? I am sorry for her and hope she will not have any more babies.”
Another reason for Anna’s outlook on marriage was attributed to the planter class of Southern women’s discovery of self-strength during the Civil War and Reconstruction. Many women were forced to compensate for deficiencies of men who had been psychologically damaged by the war and their defeat.
“No longer could these women accept that men were innately superior and women only fit to be their servants,” wrote family member Mary B. Williams in a brief biography of Anna’s life. “Since her father was one of the wealthier men in the neighborhood, I assume that there would have been young men who found her circumstances attractive. So her single state was probably not due to utter lack of opportunity.”
Kate’s mother shared similar struggles about marriage, writing “Kate, I don’t know what to say to you about marrying. I fear you will be a physical ruin. You are not strong, and I can assure you a married life is a hard one. I have always hoped that you would never marry.”
Walter and Kate Dallas were blessed with five daughters. Kate inherited her family’s value of education, sending all five daughters to college. Following graduation from R.E. Lee Institute, all attended higher education at Georgia State Normal School at Athens. She took out a loan for the schooling, paying it off by developing the 14-acre property into lots for homes, leaving a one-acre lot that the Weaver-Dallas House sits on today. The last daughter would have graduated in the mid-1920s.
Former tenant Frances Crump once told Mary B. of a day in the 1950s when Kate walked into the room and expressed her satisfaction at having finally paid off the debt for educating her daughters.
Kate was known for her career as an “elocutionist, a teacher of elocution, and a writer of pieces suitable for delivery by elocutionists. Elocution was a major form of entertainment in the days before television and radio.
“For a small town a professional elocutionist, who could both perform at local events and teach their songs and daughters this important skill, was a treasure indeed,” wrote Mary B.
Kate taught at R.E. Lee Institute, performed at various local events, wrote pieces published in Werner’s Magazine, and arranged works written for other purposes.
In addition to elocution work, Kate published numerous articles in local newspapers in Watkinsville and Thomaston. Articles ranged from social event coverage to a series of feature articles, known as “Chats.” She also wrote several letters to the editor, which were published in more prominent papers.
In a letter to Walter in 1896, Kate wrote, “If, after we are married I could make our home ‘the dearest place on earth’ and have any time left for writing, I think your strong, ever-present sympathy would help me to do better work than I could possibly do without you; while on the other hand, should the practical duties of life absorb all of my time and strength, I think you would be always very gentle and tender to my dreams which are so much a part of me. I have never deemed it right to leave plain duties and follow after vague possibilities, yet my longing to WRITE is something more than a passing fancy.”
In 1921, after Thomaston installed a water and sewer system, Anna closed in the remainder of the porch, adding a bathroom. After her demise in 1927, her niece Kate obtained ownership of the home.
During Kate’s reign in the Weaver-Dallas House, she added dormer windows and a bathroom on the second floor, between 1930 and 1941, while the home remained a boarding house. She also added a kitchenette and bathroom to the doctor’s shop, making it a self-contained apartment. She did the same in the library at the front of the house. In later years, her daughter Weaver oversaw the renovation arrangements.
Of Kate’s five daughters, two daughters, Katherine and Weaver Dallas, were traveling puppeteers and creators of the Rag-Bag Alley Puppets. Learn about their journey in puppeteering in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas Family is the third of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property. See the second part in last week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
After the passing of Judge Travis A. D. Weaver, the 14-acre property and home, now known as the Weaver-Dallas House, was left to Weaver’s daughter Marianna Maria (Anna) in 1877, who was the oldest surviving child. She also cared for her niece Carrie, whose mother Frances, along with Carrie’s five siblings, passed away from a diphtheria epidemic several years earlier.
Inheriting the home at the age of 44, Anna transformed the home into a boarding house, giving her the ability to make a living while maintaining an independent life. At the time, the second floor of the home consisted of two large rooms, connected to the staircase by a central hallway. She subdivided the rooms, creating four rooms, and removed the curved staircase, replacing it with a smaller and straight staircase, which remains today. She also attached the Doctor’s Shop to the home, closing in part of the porch, making the well accessible without leaving the home.
Many students and educators boarded at the Weaver residence, considering the home’s close proximity to town and Thomaston schools.
Stereotypically in the late 1800s, “spinsterhood” was considered to be a highly avoided fate for life. Anna’s attitude toward marriage was quite different. In a letter to her niece Kate Weaver Dallas, she wrote “How is Alvah’s wife? I am sorry for her and hope she will not have any more babies.”
Another reason for Anna’s outlook on marriage was attributed to the planter class of Southern women’s discovery of self-strength during the Civil War and Reconstruction. Many women were forced to compensate for deficiencies of men who had been psychologically damaged by the war and their defeat.
“No longer could these women accept that men were innately superior and women only fit to be their servants,” wrote family member Mary B. Williams in a brief biography of Anna’s life. “Since her father was one of the wealthier men in the neighborhood, I assume that there would have been young men who found her circumstances attractive. So her single state was probably not due to utter lack of opportunity.”
Kate’s mother shared similar struggles about marriage, writing “Kate, I don’t know what to say to you about marrying. I fear you will be a physical ruin. You are not strong, and I can assure you a married life is a hard one. I have always hoped that you would never marry.”
Walter and Kate Dallas were blessed with five daughters. Kate inherited her family’s value of education, sending all five daughters to college. Following graduation from R.E. Lee Institute, all attended higher education at Georgia State Normal School at Athens. She took out a loan for the schooling, paying it off by developing the 14-acre property into lots for homes, leaving a one-acre lot that the Weaver-Dallas House sits on today. The last daughter would have graduated in the mid-1920s.
Former tenant Frances Crump once told Mary B. of a day in the 1950s when Kate walked into the room and expressed her satisfaction at having finally paid off the debt for educating her daughters.
Kate was known for her career as an “elocutionist, a teacher of elocution, and a writer of pieces suitable for delivery by elocutionists. Elocution was a major form of entertainment in the days before television and radio.
“For a small town a professional elocutionist, who could both perform at local events and teach their songs and daughters this important skill, was a treasure indeed,” wrote Mary B.
Kate taught at R.E. Lee Institute, performed at various local events, wrote pieces published in Werner’s Magazine, and arranged works written for other purposes.
In addition to elocution work, Kate published numerous articles in local newspapers in Watkinsville and Thomaston. Articles ranged from social event coverage to a series of feature articles, known as “Chats.” She also wrote several letters to the editor, which were published in more prominent papers.
In a letter to Walter in 1896, Kate wrote, “If, after we are married I could make our home ‘the dearest place on earth’ and have any time left for writing, I think your strong, ever-present sympathy would help me to do better work than I could possibly do without you; while on the other hand, should the practical duties of life absorb all of my time and strength, I think you would be always very gentle and tender to my dreams which are so much a part of me. I have never deemed it right to leave plain duties and follow after vague possibilities, yet my longing to WRITE is something more than a passing fancy.”
In 1921, after Thomaston installed a water and sewer system, Anna closed in the remainder of the porch, adding a bathroom. After her demise in 1927, her niece Kate obtained ownership of the home.
During Kate’s reign in the Weaver-Dallas House, she added dormer windows and a bathroom on the second floor, between 1930 and 1941, while the home remained a boarding house. She also added a kitchenette and bathroom to the doctor’s shop, making it a self-contained apartment. She did the same in the library at the front of the house. In later years, her daughter Weaver oversaw the renovation arrangements.
Of Kate’s five daughters, two daughters, Katherine and Weaver Dallas, were traveling puppeteers and creators of the Rag-Bag Alley Puppets. Learn about their journey in puppeteering in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
Upson County Weekly COVID-19 Update
Nursing Homes Account for 81% of Local COVID-Related Deaths
Published 10-8-2020
Upson County reported 807 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 63 deaths and 84 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 16 from the 791 confirmed cases, increase of one death, and increase of five hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was 36 during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 30.7 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 0.6 from 30.1 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 1.4 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 323,714 cases (8,433 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 7,942) as of noon Tuesday, with 28,987 hospitalized (up 790/prior week’s increase was 803) and 7,192 deaths (up 231/prior week’s increase was 357).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 710 (25.6 per 1,000) and 53 deaths, 86 hospitalized; Meriwether with 560 (26.6 per 1,000) and 14 deaths, 73 hospitalized; Lamar, 381 (19.7 per 1,000) and 19 deaths, 42 hospitalized; Pike, 350 (18.6 per 1,000) with 10 deaths and 31 hospitalized; Taylor, 216 (27.1 per 1,000) with 11 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 171 (14 per 1,000) with five deaths and 27 hospitalized; and Talbot, 166 (27 per 1,000) with six deaths and 24 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose from 254 to 263 (up nine) during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
Based on numbers reported, three local nursing homes account for 32.6 percent of all positive cases and 81 percent of all COVID-related deaths in Upson County.
The report shows Harborview (90 residents/96 tested) with 74 resident cases (up eight), 52 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (up one), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (76 residents/80 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (53 residents/85 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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 807 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 63 deaths and 84 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 16 from the 791 confirmed cases, increase of one death, and increase of five hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was 36 during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 30.7 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 0.6 from 30.1 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 1.4 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 323,714 cases (8,433 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 7,942) as of noon Tuesday, with 28,987 hospitalized (up 790/prior week’s increase was 803) and 7,192 deaths (up 231/prior week’s increase was 357).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 710 (25.6 per 1,000) and 53 deaths, 86 hospitalized; Meriwether with 560 (26.6 per 1,000) and 14 deaths, 73 hospitalized; Lamar, 381 (19.7 per 1,000) and 19 deaths, 42 hospitalized; Pike, 350 (18.6 per 1,000) with 10 deaths and 31 hospitalized; Taylor, 216 (27.1 per 1,000) with 11 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 171 (14 per 1,000) with five deaths and 27 hospitalized; and Talbot, 166 (27 per 1,000) with six deaths and 24 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose from 254 to 263 (up nine) during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (no change), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
Based on numbers reported, three local nursing homes account for 32.6 percent of all positive cases and 81 percent of all COVID-related deaths in Upson County.
The report shows Harborview (90 residents/96 tested) with 74 resident cases (up eight), 52 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (up one), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (76 residents/80 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 50 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (53 residents/85 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (no change) and 17 resident deaths (no change) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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.
Community Needs Foster Families
Published 10-8-2020
Did you know that when a child enters foster care they are often not alone? Many children enter care along with a brother or sister or have a sibling who is already in care. Our community needs foster families who will take a family of children, small or large, so that siblings can be together. Currently, Upson has 45 children in care, but only 12 caregiver homes. These children range in ages of 7 – 17 years old. Help brothers and sisters in your community stay together. For more information contact Aaliyah Shakir, DFCS regional recruiter aaliyah.shakir@dhs.ga.gov (678) 544-6631or go to FosterGeorgia.com to learn how you can become a foster or adoptive caregiver today.
Did you know that when a child enters foster care they are often not alone? Many children enter care along with a brother or sister or have a sibling who is already in care. Our community needs foster families who will take a family of children, small or large, so that siblings can be together. Currently, Upson has 45 children in care, but only 12 caregiver homes. These children range in ages of 7 – 17 years old. Help brothers and sisters in your community stay together. For more information contact Aaliyah Shakir, DFCS regional recruiter aaliyah.shakir@dhs.ga.gov (678) 544-6631or go to FosterGeorgia.com to learn how you can become a foster or adoptive caregiver today.
Travis and Caroline Create a Legacy
The Second of a Multi-Part Series on the Weaver-Dallas House
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Published 10-1-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas Family is the second of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property. See the first part in last week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
The Weaver-Dallas House, located on Bethel Street, belonged to the Weaver-Dallas family for 180 years after Travis Weaver moved to Thomaston in 1839.
The son of an American Revolution soldier, Travis Archibald Daniel Weaver was born in Halifax N.C. in 1802. Weaver moved to Green County with his parents and two brothers at a young age and later moving to Jones County, married his wife Caroline in 1829.
Caroline Cook Weaver was born in Surrey County, Va. in 1805. When she was only three years old, her father purchased land in Jones County, moving his family to Georgia.
After marrying, T.A.D. purchased a plantation six miles south of Thomaston in Hootenville, Upson County, where Caroline gave birth to two daughters, Frances and later Marianna (Anna). It is said that T.A.D. ran 27 plows and his farm was stocked with everything required for the successful operation of a productive industry.
The family moved to Thomaston several years later in 1839 after purchasing what is now known as the Weaver-Dallas House. At that time, the home was only a three-room structure. Shortly after moving to town, Caroline gave birth to the first of two sons, William. Their forth child, George Alvah, was born in 1844.
While maintaining his plantation south of town, T.A.D. served as judge of the inferior court on several occasions and thereafter carried the title of “judge,” first serving as judge of inferior courts in Jones County. He was also a surveyor for Thomaston and, during the American Civil War, taught students in makeshift schools.
Caroline lived a demanding life during the pioneer days. She was responsible for ensuring all members of the plantation and home were fed and clothed, training and supervising the “help,” providing medical care for those on the plantation, and raising and educating her children. This included tending to chickens and cows, as well as preserving fruit, vegetables and meat for later use.
As wife of a leading citizen, Caroline held social duties in town. When President James Polk visited Thomaston in 1847, Caroline and three other women were responsible for caring for Mrs. Polk during the stay.
Toward the end of the Civil War, the family plantation was plundered and everything of value was taken by Wilson’s Raiders. Only six or eight bales of cotton were overlooked during the raiding of the plantation, which was Judge Weaver’s financial salvation afterwards. It is said that the family’s Thomaston home was also raided, but was spared from torching after the lieutenant in charge spotted a Masonic Bible on the hall table.
The Weavers shared the importance of education with their children. Their daughters were “instructed from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the geography of the heavens, natural philosophy, moral philosophy, french, natural history, botany, etc.”
Both William and Alvah were educated at Emory University, although Alvah left early as both served in the Confederate Army.
In 1865, Frances and five of the Weavers’ grandchildren passed away in a diphtheria epidemic, while taking refuge from Sherman’s Army in Buena vista.
The Weavers’ daughter Anna raised the surviving granddaughter and gained possession of the house in 1877 after the passing of T.A.D.
After two series of “stomach and side pain,” Caroline passed away in 1868. In a personal history of Alvah’s life, he stated that his mother became very ill and, years later, he suspected that she may have had what later was known as appendicitis.
“As she wished, she was clothed in her right mind through life, and just before the closing scene she had a seraphic smile, a heavenly glow on her face, and exclaimed with seeming rapture, ‘My mother, oh! My mother!’ and in a short time had passed from the scenes of life to be with her mother… While her sweet spirit has gone to the loving God, who gave it, her body sleeps in the Weaver family burial lot in Glenwood Cemetery, Thomaston, Ga.”
After Caroline’s passing, Alvah stated that his father did not take it well. “When she left us for the other world, she left a most devoted and dutiful daughter, and two sons, but saddest of all, a broken-hearted husband. He never recovered from the parting, and this world had little attraction for him, although he tried to be brave, and with Christian fortitude to bear his affliction to the end.”
Learn more about Anna’s ownership of the Weaver-Dallas House in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas Family is the second of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property. See the first part in last week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
The Weaver-Dallas House, located on Bethel Street, belonged to the Weaver-Dallas family for 180 years after Travis Weaver moved to Thomaston in 1839.
The son of an American Revolution soldier, Travis Archibald Daniel Weaver was born in Halifax N.C. in 1802. Weaver moved to Green County with his parents and two brothers at a young age and later moving to Jones County, married his wife Caroline in 1829.
Caroline Cook Weaver was born in Surrey County, Va. in 1805. When she was only three years old, her father purchased land in Jones County, moving his family to Georgia.
After marrying, T.A.D. purchased a plantation six miles south of Thomaston in Hootenville, Upson County, where Caroline gave birth to two daughters, Frances and later Marianna (Anna). It is said that T.A.D. ran 27 plows and his farm was stocked with everything required for the successful operation of a productive industry.
The family moved to Thomaston several years later in 1839 after purchasing what is now known as the Weaver-Dallas House. At that time, the home was only a three-room structure. Shortly after moving to town, Caroline gave birth to the first of two sons, William. Their forth child, George Alvah, was born in 1844.
While maintaining his plantation south of town, T.A.D. served as judge of the inferior court on several occasions and thereafter carried the title of “judge,” first serving as judge of inferior courts in Jones County. He was also a surveyor for Thomaston and, during the American Civil War, taught students in makeshift schools.
Caroline lived a demanding life during the pioneer days. She was responsible for ensuring all members of the plantation and home were fed and clothed, training and supervising the “help,” providing medical care for those on the plantation, and raising and educating her children. This included tending to chickens and cows, as well as preserving fruit, vegetables and meat for later use.
As wife of a leading citizen, Caroline held social duties in town. When President James Polk visited Thomaston in 1847, Caroline and three other women were responsible for caring for Mrs. Polk during the stay.
Toward the end of the Civil War, the family plantation was plundered and everything of value was taken by Wilson’s Raiders. Only six or eight bales of cotton were overlooked during the raiding of the plantation, which was Judge Weaver’s financial salvation afterwards. It is said that the family’s Thomaston home was also raided, but was spared from torching after the lieutenant in charge spotted a Masonic Bible on the hall table.
The Weavers shared the importance of education with their children. Their daughters were “instructed from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the geography of the heavens, natural philosophy, moral philosophy, french, natural history, botany, etc.”
Both William and Alvah were educated at Emory University, although Alvah left early as both served in the Confederate Army.
In 1865, Frances and five of the Weavers’ grandchildren passed away in a diphtheria epidemic, while taking refuge from Sherman’s Army in Buena vista.
The Weavers’ daughter Anna raised the surviving granddaughter and gained possession of the house in 1877 after the passing of T.A.D.
After two series of “stomach and side pain,” Caroline passed away in 1868. In a personal history of Alvah’s life, he stated that his mother became very ill and, years later, he suspected that she may have had what later was known as appendicitis.
“As she wished, she was clothed in her right mind through life, and just before the closing scene she had a seraphic smile, a heavenly glow on her face, and exclaimed with seeming rapture, ‘My mother, oh! My mother!’ and in a short time had passed from the scenes of life to be with her mother… While her sweet spirit has gone to the loving God, who gave it, her body sleeps in the Weaver family burial lot in Glenwood Cemetery, Thomaston, Ga.”
After Caroline’s passing, Alvah stated that his father did not take it well. “When she left us for the other world, she left a most devoted and dutiful daughter, and two sons, but saddest of all, a broken-hearted husband. He never recovered from the parting, and this world had little attraction for him, although he tried to be brave, and with Christian fortitude to bear his affliction to the end.”
Learn more about Anna’s ownership of the Weaver-Dallas House in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
IRS: 797 Thomaston Residents
Have Not Received Payments
Published 10-1-2020
The Internal Revenue Service recently released a state-by-state breakdown of roughly nine million people receiving a special mailing during September encouraging them to check eligibility to claim an Economic Impact Payment.
As of Sept. 18, the list showed 797 residents of the 30286 (Thomaston) zip code who are eligible for, and have yet to receive, a payment. More than 348,600 Georgians are on the list.
The IRS will mail the letters to people who typically are not required to file federal income tax returns but may qualify for an Economic Impact Payment. The letter urges recipients to visit the special “Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info” tool on IRS.gov before the Oct. 15 deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment.
“The IRS continues to work hard to reach people eligible for these payments,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “These mailings are the latest step by the IRS to reach as many people as possible for these important payments. We are releasing this state-by-state information so that state and local leaders and organizations can better understand the size of this population in their communities and assist them in claiming these important payments. Time is running out to claim a payment before the deadline.”
These letters are part of a final stage of the IRS’s sweeping outreach and public awareness campaign on the Economic Impact Payments that began in March. These efforts included IRS outreach to thousands of partner groups across the nation, including partner groups serving underserved communities, people experiencing homelessness, and those whose primary language is not English.
So far, more than 7 million people have already used the Non-Filers tool to register for a payment.
September’s letters, delivered from an IRS address, are being sent to people who have not filed a return for either 2018 or 2019. Based on an internal analysis, these are people who do not typically have a tax return filing requirement because they appear to have very low incomes based on Forms W-2 and 1099, and other third-party statements available to the IRS.
The letter urges the recipient to register at IRS.gov by Oct. 15 to receive a payment by the end of the year. Individuals can receive up to $1,200, and married couples can receive up to $2,400. People with qualifying children under age 17 at the end of 2019 can get up to an additional $500 for each qualifying child.
The letter, officially known as IRS Notice 1444-A, is written in English and Spanish and includes information on eligibility criteria. If they have not done so already, this letter urges eligible individuals to register using the free Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info tool, available in English and Spanish and only on IRS.gov. To help address fraud concerns, a copy of the letter is available on IRS.gov.
The IRS cautions that receiving a letter is not a guarantee of eligibility. An individual is likely eligible for an Economic Impact Payment if they are a U.S. citizen or resident alien, have a work-eligible Social Security number, and cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s federal income tax return.
For more information on eligibility requirements, see the Economic Impact Payment eligibility FAQs on IRS.gov.
The registration deadline for non-filers to claim an Economic Impact Payment through the Non-Filers tool is Oct. 15, 2020. People who are eligible should not wait to receive a letter and should register now. Alternatively, people can wait until next year and claim the recovery rebate credit on their 2020 federal income tax return by filing in 2021.
The IRS emphasized that anyone required to file either a 2018 or 2019 tax return should file the tax return and not use the Non-Filers tool. That tool is designed for people with incomes typically below $24,400 for married couples, and $12,200 for singles. This includes couples and individuals who are experiencing homelessness.
Those unable to access the Non-Filers tool may submit a simplified paper return following the procedures described in the Economic Impact Payment FAQs on IRS.gov.
People can qualify for a payment, even if they do not work or have no earned income. But low- and moderate-income workers and working families eligible to receive special tax benefits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, cannot use this tool. They will need to file a regular tax return as soon as possible. The IRS will use tax return information to determine and issue any Economic Impact Payment for which they are eligible.
Anyone using the Non-Filers tool can speed the arrival of their payment by choosing to receive it by direct deposit. Those not choosing this option will get a check.
Beginning two weeks after they register, people can track the status of their payment using the Get My Payment tool, available only on IRS.gov.
For more information on the Economic Impact Payment, including updated answers to frequently asked questions and other resources, visit IRS.gov/coronavirus.
The Internal Revenue Service recently released a state-by-state breakdown of roughly nine million people receiving a special mailing during September encouraging them to check eligibility to claim an Economic Impact Payment.
As of Sept. 18, the list showed 797 residents of the 30286 (Thomaston) zip code who are eligible for, and have yet to receive, a payment. More than 348,600 Georgians are on the list.
The IRS will mail the letters to people who typically are not required to file federal income tax returns but may qualify for an Economic Impact Payment. The letter urges recipients to visit the special “Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info” tool on IRS.gov before the Oct. 15 deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment.
“The IRS continues to work hard to reach people eligible for these payments,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “These mailings are the latest step by the IRS to reach as many people as possible for these important payments. We are releasing this state-by-state information so that state and local leaders and organizations can better understand the size of this population in their communities and assist them in claiming these important payments. Time is running out to claim a payment before the deadline.”
These letters are part of a final stage of the IRS’s sweeping outreach and public awareness campaign on the Economic Impact Payments that began in March. These efforts included IRS outreach to thousands of partner groups across the nation, including partner groups serving underserved communities, people experiencing homelessness, and those whose primary language is not English.
So far, more than 7 million people have already used the Non-Filers tool to register for a payment.
September’s letters, delivered from an IRS address, are being sent to people who have not filed a return for either 2018 or 2019. Based on an internal analysis, these are people who do not typically have a tax return filing requirement because they appear to have very low incomes based on Forms W-2 and 1099, and other third-party statements available to the IRS.
The letter urges the recipient to register at IRS.gov by Oct. 15 to receive a payment by the end of the year. Individuals can receive up to $1,200, and married couples can receive up to $2,400. People with qualifying children under age 17 at the end of 2019 can get up to an additional $500 for each qualifying child.
The letter, officially known as IRS Notice 1444-A, is written in English and Spanish and includes information on eligibility criteria. If they have not done so already, this letter urges eligible individuals to register using the free Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info tool, available in English and Spanish and only on IRS.gov. To help address fraud concerns, a copy of the letter is available on IRS.gov.
The IRS cautions that receiving a letter is not a guarantee of eligibility. An individual is likely eligible for an Economic Impact Payment if they are a U.S. citizen or resident alien, have a work-eligible Social Security number, and cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s federal income tax return.
For more information on eligibility requirements, see the Economic Impact Payment eligibility FAQs on IRS.gov.
The registration deadline for non-filers to claim an Economic Impact Payment through the Non-Filers tool is Oct. 15, 2020. People who are eligible should not wait to receive a letter and should register now. Alternatively, people can wait until next year and claim the recovery rebate credit on their 2020 federal income tax return by filing in 2021.
The IRS emphasized that anyone required to file either a 2018 or 2019 tax return should file the tax return and not use the Non-Filers tool. That tool is designed for people with incomes typically below $24,400 for married couples, and $12,200 for singles. This includes couples and individuals who are experiencing homelessness.
Those unable to access the Non-Filers tool may submit a simplified paper return following the procedures described in the Economic Impact Payment FAQs on IRS.gov.
People can qualify for a payment, even if they do not work or have no earned income. But low- and moderate-income workers and working families eligible to receive special tax benefits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, cannot use this tool. They will need to file a regular tax return as soon as possible. The IRS will use tax return information to determine and issue any Economic Impact Payment for which they are eligible.
Anyone using the Non-Filers tool can speed the arrival of their payment by choosing to receive it by direct deposit. Those not choosing this option will get a check.
Beginning two weeks after they register, people can track the status of their payment using the Get My Payment tool, available only on IRS.gov.
For more information on the Economic Impact Payment, including updated answers to frequently asked questions and other resources, visit IRS.gov/coronavirus.
Power Outage For Upgrades Planned Oct. 4
Published 10-1-2020
Georgia Power has requested a power outage from 6-8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 on Thomaston’s primary substation 1 for upgrade requirements, according to a notice from the City of Thomaston Electric Department.
Affected areas will be all of Northside, east and west Silvertown, Beaver Run Trace, Nottingham Street area, North Center Street from Main Street north, North Church Street from Thompson Street north, East Thomaston area, Barnesville Street area, Bethel and Hightower Streets from Joe White Parkway to East Lee Street, East Gordon Street, Oglethorpe Way, and Parkway Drive.
In the event of inclement weather, an alternate date has been set for Sunday, Oct. 11.
The City of Thomaston apologizes for any inconveniences this may cause, but, “This is a necessary outage for the overall performance and enhancement of the system,” according to city officials.
For questions or concerns regarding the outage, please contact the electric department at 706-647-3145.
Georgia Power has requested a power outage from 6-8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 on Thomaston’s primary substation 1 for upgrade requirements, according to a notice from the City of Thomaston Electric Department.
Affected areas will be all of Northside, east and west Silvertown, Beaver Run Trace, Nottingham Street area, North Center Street from Main Street north, North Church Street from Thompson Street north, East Thomaston area, Barnesville Street area, Bethel and Hightower Streets from Joe White Parkway to East Lee Street, East Gordon Street, Oglethorpe Way, and Parkway Drive.
In the event of inclement weather, an alternate date has been set for Sunday, Oct. 11.
The City of Thomaston apologizes for any inconveniences this may cause, but, “This is a necessary outage for the overall performance and enhancement of the system,” according to city officials.
For questions or concerns regarding the outage, please contact the electric department at 706-647-3145.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
Published 10-1-2020
Upson County reported 791 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 62 deaths and 79 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 36 from the 755 confirmed cases, increase of three deaths, and increase of three hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was 38 during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 30.1 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 1.4 from 28.7 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 1.4 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 315,281 cases (7,942 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 12,002) as of noon Tuesday, with 28,197 hospitalized (up 803/prior week’s increase was 1,000) and 6,961 deaths (up 357/prior week’s increase was 251).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 690 (24.9 per 1,000) and 51 deaths, 81 hospitalized; Meriwether with 544 (25.9 per 1,000) and 13 deaths, 70 hospitalized; Lamar, 367 (19.0 per 1,000) and 18 deaths, 39 hospitalized; Pike, 329 (17.4 per 1,000) with 10 deaths and 31 hospitalized; Taylor, 212 (26.6 per 1,000) with 10 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 167 (13.7 per 1,000) with five deaths and 26 hospitalized; and Talbot, 166 (27.0 per 1,000) with six deaths and 22 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose from 249 to 254 during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (up one), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (92 residents/96 tested) with 66 resident cases (up two), 43 resident recoveries, 12 staff cases (up two), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (82 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 49 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (50 residents/82 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (up one) and 17 resident deaths (up one) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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 791 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 62 deaths and 79 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 36 from the 755 confirmed cases, increase of three deaths, and increase of three hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was 38 during the previous week.
Upson’s infection rate is 30.1 per 1,000 residents, an increase of 1.4 from 28.7 per 1,000 for the previous period. The per capita rate increase was 1.4 for the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 315,281 cases (7,942 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 12,002) as of noon Tuesday, with 28,197 hospitalized (up 803/prior week’s increase was 1,000) and 6,961 deaths (up 357/prior week’s increase was 251).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 690 (24.9 per 1,000) and 51 deaths, 81 hospitalized; Meriwether with 544 (25.9 per 1,000) and 13 deaths, 70 hospitalized; Lamar, 367 (19.0 per 1,000) and 18 deaths, 39 hospitalized; Pike, 329 (17.4 per 1,000) with 10 deaths and 31 hospitalized; Taylor, 212 (26.6 per 1,000) with 10 deaths and 32 hospitalized; Crawford, 167 (13.7 per 1,000) with five deaths and 26 hospitalized; and Talbot, 166 (27.0 per 1,000) with six deaths and 22 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose from 249 to 254 during the same one-week period, with 51 resident deaths (up one), according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (92 residents/96 tested) with 66 resident cases (up two), 43 resident recoveries, 12 staff cases (up two), and 19 resident deaths (no change). Providence (82 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no change), 49 resident recoveries, 31 staff cases (no change), and 15 resident deaths (no change). Riverside (50 residents/82 tested) reports 59 resident cases (no change), 42 resident recoveries, 21 staff cases (up one) and 17 resident deaths (up one) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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.
Two Centuries Encapsulated on One Acre
The First of a Multi-Part Series of the Weaver-Dallas House
Published 9-24-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas House is the first of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property.
For nearly 200 years, The Weaver-Dallas House, located at 205 Bethel Street, has been a staple of Thomaston. Recognized as the oldest standing home in Thomaston, the original structure was constructed circa 1825. Situated on what was once a 14-acre lot, the home now sits on a one-acre property, mostly hidden by decades of shrubbery and tree growth. Recently, an estate sale was held on the property and the home will soon go into the Revolving Fund for Endangered Properties Program of the Georgia Trust of Historic Preservation.
In the mid-1820s, not long after the area was opened for white settlement, Dr. William Yonge purchased 14 acres two blocks southeast of the square. On the property, he built the earliest part of the house, a single room with a loft. The room now serves as the dining room of the current structure.
He also built a doctor’s shop which was attached to the house in the 1870s.
Yonge planned to expand the one-room building into a house, although he passed away in 1834 at age 25. The home, along with a smokehouse, doctor’s shop and 14 acres, was sold to Dr. Larkin Bass in the 1830s. He developed the house into a three-room structure.
A unique feature of the dwelling is a “Rumford fireplace.” The basic idea of the fireplace was to place the sides of the fireplace at a 130-degree angle from the back, while the width of the back was only a third of the front opening, allowing heat to radiate into the room. The Rumford style fireplace was created by Count Rumford of Massachusetts, who is known chiefly for his important researches on heat, which showed that it is not material. It is uncertain who in Upson knew of Rumford’s fireplace dimensions, nor whose idea it was to incorporate the feature into the dwelling.
After developing a debilitating illness in 1833, Dr. Bass published the following advertisement in the “Hickory Nut & Upson Vigil,” a local newspaper of the time:
“The subscriber, in consequence of his declining health, is compelled to quit the practice of his profession, and wishes to dispose of his house and lot where he now lives, which he will do on accommodating terms. The lot contains 14 acres of good land, now under neat cultivation, and has on it a comfortable dwelling house with all necessary outbuildings. There is on it also, a neat and well built ‘Doctor’s Shop,’ consisting of two apartments which will answer for that purpose, or for bedrooms, being situated convenient to dwelling. He will also dispose of his shop furniture and medicines which are well selected; together with a small library of valuable books, mostly on the subject of medicine and divinity.”
The advertisement ran Aug. 14, 1833 and was signed “L. Bass.”
Although Dr. Bass died before the property sold, his widow sold the land, buildings, etc. to Travis Weaver in the latter part of 1839, with the deed recorded in 1840.
Travis Archibald Daniel Weaver moved to Hootenville, Upson County, with his wife, and purchased a plantation in the early 1800s where he had two daughters. Wanting to move closer to Thomaston, he purchased the Bass property and his wife Caroline gave birth to the first of two sons in 1840 at their new home.
In 1841, T.A.D. Weaver expanded the house into four large downstairs rooms with a central hall, plus a small front porch and a back porch running the width of the house. He also expanded the loft to two upstairs room, separated by a hallway. His second son was born in 1844.
Weaver also built a smokehouse large enough to serve the needs of the family and plantation. The second floor of the smokehouse was added in the 20th Century.
T.A.D. and Caroline Weaver raised their four children in the house, while maintaining the distant plantation. Weaver also served as a judge of the inferior court in Upson County.
After passing away in 1877, Judge Weaver’s home was left to his daughter Anna Weaver. Being unmarried and with the convenient location of the home, Anna began using the property as a boarding house. She, along with her Niece Kate, maintained and developed the home.
Anna subdivided the two large upstairs rooms, creating four rooms, as well as changed the curved staircase to a straight one, saving space. During reconstruction, Anna closed part of the back porch for safety, as well as moved and connected the doctor’s shop, connecting the home to a well.
In 1921, after Thomaston installed a water and sewer system, Anna finished closing the back porch, adding a bathroom, as well as piping to the kitchen. Anna was able to house many people during her lifetime, but gave the home to her niece Kate Weaver Dallas when Anna was 93 in 1927. Anna died in December of that year.
Kate, as well, used the home to board guests. Between 1930 and 1941, Kate added an upstairs bathroom and dormer windows to increase rental value. The doctor’s shop was reimagined with a bathroom and kitchenette added to make it a self-contained apartment. The library was also converted to a self-contained apartment with the addition of a closet, bathroom, and kitchenette. It is said that the house witnessed many small dramas worthy of soap opera productions.
Kate, with a strong appreciation for education, took out a loan to send her four daughters to school. She paid the loan by dividing and selling parts of the family land for residential lots, leaving the acre of land that the home now sits on.
The small smokehouse was moved onto a concrete slab and turned into a studio for two of Kate’s daughters, Kathryn and Weaver, who were puppeteers in the 1930s. During the same time, the larger smokehouse was converted into a rental house.
Weaver and her sister Katheryn used the house as their base during their careers as puppeteers. They traveled to perform, as well as to give workshops. After a period of performing and living in Grenache Village, Katheryn married and Weaver moved back to Thomaston to care for her mother Kate, who passed away in 1956.
While she made little changes during her ownership of the house, Weaver preserved the details of the home, as well as the many items in the house, revealing how people lived in the various periods of its existence.
During Weaver’s ownership, the old doctor’s shop was the only part of the house that was being rented. Tenant Frances Crump became like a part of the family. Being a piano teacher, Crump taught lessons for decades in the home and remained there until her death.
Upon Weaver’s death in 1990, her niece Mary B. Williams obtained the house. Because she was not ready to retire from her job in Delaware, Crump lived in the home and cared for it for five years.
Mary B. spent years collecting and preserving the history of the home, noting that the only large structural change made during this time was to the old smokehouse. The cement pad had been cracked by tree roots, so the structure was raised and repaired. During her ownership, the home’s infrastructure was updated with central heating and air, replacement of most plumbing pipes, and a complete rewiring of the home.
The Weaver-Dallas House and property became part of a new historic district in August 1993. The R.E. Lee Historic District encompasses The Weaver-Dallas House, doctor’s house and smokehouse, as well as R.E. Lee Institute, the cafeteria, Drake Building, old Methodist Church, Harrison Library, old Sunday school, Britt House, old gym and Glenwood Cemetery.
Nearly 200 years after the original construction of the Weaver-Dallas House, the many interesting artifacts of the home were recently sold through an estate sale. Kelly Mixon of Kelly’s Estate and Auction Company handled the online auction which lasted Sept. 2-9. Those who won auction items were able to tour the house in search of unique finds that did not make the auction.
“It’s truly been an honor for me and my crew to prepare this sale. It is an amazing time capsule of treasures,” commented Mixon.
The Weaver-Dallas house will be handed over to the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and placed in a revolving fund.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation established the Revolving Fund for Endangered Properties Program in 1990 to provide effective alternatives to demolition or neglect of architecturally and historically significant properties by promoting their rehabilitation and enabling owners of endangered historic properties to connect with buyers who will purchase and rehabilitate their properties.
Learn more about those who lived in the home in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
The following story of the Weaver-Dallas House is the first of a multi-part series covering the history of the home, as well as those who cared for it. Information and data for the following story and series was collected through the Thomaston-Upson Archives and those involved in the development of the property.
For nearly 200 years, The Weaver-Dallas House, located at 205 Bethel Street, has been a staple of Thomaston. Recognized as the oldest standing home in Thomaston, the original structure was constructed circa 1825. Situated on what was once a 14-acre lot, the home now sits on a one-acre property, mostly hidden by decades of shrubbery and tree growth. Recently, an estate sale was held on the property and the home will soon go into the Revolving Fund for Endangered Properties Program of the Georgia Trust of Historic Preservation.
In the mid-1820s, not long after the area was opened for white settlement, Dr. William Yonge purchased 14 acres two blocks southeast of the square. On the property, he built the earliest part of the house, a single room with a loft. The room now serves as the dining room of the current structure.
He also built a doctor’s shop which was attached to the house in the 1870s.
Yonge planned to expand the one-room building into a house, although he passed away in 1834 at age 25. The home, along with a smokehouse, doctor’s shop and 14 acres, was sold to Dr. Larkin Bass in the 1830s. He developed the house into a three-room structure.
A unique feature of the dwelling is a “Rumford fireplace.” The basic idea of the fireplace was to place the sides of the fireplace at a 130-degree angle from the back, while the width of the back was only a third of the front opening, allowing heat to radiate into the room. The Rumford style fireplace was created by Count Rumford of Massachusetts, who is known chiefly for his important researches on heat, which showed that it is not material. It is uncertain who in Upson knew of Rumford’s fireplace dimensions, nor whose idea it was to incorporate the feature into the dwelling.
After developing a debilitating illness in 1833, Dr. Bass published the following advertisement in the “Hickory Nut & Upson Vigil,” a local newspaper of the time:
“The subscriber, in consequence of his declining health, is compelled to quit the practice of his profession, and wishes to dispose of his house and lot where he now lives, which he will do on accommodating terms. The lot contains 14 acres of good land, now under neat cultivation, and has on it a comfortable dwelling house with all necessary outbuildings. There is on it also, a neat and well built ‘Doctor’s Shop,’ consisting of two apartments which will answer for that purpose, or for bedrooms, being situated convenient to dwelling. He will also dispose of his shop furniture and medicines which are well selected; together with a small library of valuable books, mostly on the subject of medicine and divinity.”
The advertisement ran Aug. 14, 1833 and was signed “L. Bass.”
Although Dr. Bass died before the property sold, his widow sold the land, buildings, etc. to Travis Weaver in the latter part of 1839, with the deed recorded in 1840.
Travis Archibald Daniel Weaver moved to Hootenville, Upson County, with his wife, and purchased a plantation in the early 1800s where he had two daughters. Wanting to move closer to Thomaston, he purchased the Bass property and his wife Caroline gave birth to the first of two sons in 1840 at their new home.
In 1841, T.A.D. Weaver expanded the house into four large downstairs rooms with a central hall, plus a small front porch and a back porch running the width of the house. He also expanded the loft to two upstairs room, separated by a hallway. His second son was born in 1844.
Weaver also built a smokehouse large enough to serve the needs of the family and plantation. The second floor of the smokehouse was added in the 20th Century.
T.A.D. and Caroline Weaver raised their four children in the house, while maintaining the distant plantation. Weaver also served as a judge of the inferior court in Upson County.
After passing away in 1877, Judge Weaver’s home was left to his daughter Anna Weaver. Being unmarried and with the convenient location of the home, Anna began using the property as a boarding house. She, along with her Niece Kate, maintained and developed the home.
Anna subdivided the two large upstairs rooms, creating four rooms, as well as changed the curved staircase to a straight one, saving space. During reconstruction, Anna closed part of the back porch for safety, as well as moved and connected the doctor’s shop, connecting the home to a well.
In 1921, after Thomaston installed a water and sewer system, Anna finished closing the back porch, adding a bathroom, as well as piping to the kitchen. Anna was able to house many people during her lifetime, but gave the home to her niece Kate Weaver Dallas when Anna was 93 in 1927. Anna died in December of that year.
Kate, as well, used the home to board guests. Between 1930 and 1941, Kate added an upstairs bathroom and dormer windows to increase rental value. The doctor’s shop was reimagined with a bathroom and kitchenette added to make it a self-contained apartment. The library was also converted to a self-contained apartment with the addition of a closet, bathroom, and kitchenette. It is said that the house witnessed many small dramas worthy of soap opera productions.
Kate, with a strong appreciation for education, took out a loan to send her four daughters to school. She paid the loan by dividing and selling parts of the family land for residential lots, leaving the acre of land that the home now sits on.
The small smokehouse was moved onto a concrete slab and turned into a studio for two of Kate’s daughters, Kathryn and Weaver, who were puppeteers in the 1930s. During the same time, the larger smokehouse was converted into a rental house.
Weaver and her sister Katheryn used the house as their base during their careers as puppeteers. They traveled to perform, as well as to give workshops. After a period of performing and living in Grenache Village, Katheryn married and Weaver moved back to Thomaston to care for her mother Kate, who passed away in 1956.
While she made little changes during her ownership of the house, Weaver preserved the details of the home, as well as the many items in the house, revealing how people lived in the various periods of its existence.
During Weaver’s ownership, the old doctor’s shop was the only part of the house that was being rented. Tenant Frances Crump became like a part of the family. Being a piano teacher, Crump taught lessons for decades in the home and remained there until her death.
Upon Weaver’s death in 1990, her niece Mary B. Williams obtained the house. Because she was not ready to retire from her job in Delaware, Crump lived in the home and cared for it for five years.
Mary B. spent years collecting and preserving the history of the home, noting that the only large structural change made during this time was to the old smokehouse. The cement pad had been cracked by tree roots, so the structure was raised and repaired. During her ownership, the home’s infrastructure was updated with central heating and air, replacement of most plumbing pipes, and a complete rewiring of the home.
The Weaver-Dallas House and property became part of a new historic district in August 1993. The R.E. Lee Historic District encompasses The Weaver-Dallas House, doctor’s house and smokehouse, as well as R.E. Lee Institute, the cafeteria, Drake Building, old Methodist Church, Harrison Library, old Sunday school, Britt House, old gym and Glenwood Cemetery.
Nearly 200 years after the original construction of the Weaver-Dallas House, the many interesting artifacts of the home were recently sold through an estate sale. Kelly Mixon of Kelly’s Estate and Auction Company handled the online auction which lasted Sept. 2-9. Those who won auction items were able to tour the house in search of unique finds that did not make the auction.
“It’s truly been an honor for me and my crew to prepare this sale. It is an amazing time capsule of treasures,” commented Mixon.
The Weaver-Dallas house will be handed over to the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and placed in a revolving fund.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation established the Revolving Fund for Endangered Properties Program in 1990 to provide effective alternatives to demolition or neglect of architecturally and historically significant properties by promoting their rehabilitation and enabling owners of endangered historic properties to connect with buyers who will purchase and rehabilitate their properties.
Learn more about those who lived in the home in next week’s edition of The Upson Beacon.
Cris Black Finds Hope as Brother Donates Kidney
L-R: John Booker and Cris Black
Published 9-17-2020
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
After 18 years of fighting kidney issues, Cris Black’s brother stepped in to save his life.
At age 19, Black began to notice that he was gaining weight. “I had ballooned from my normal 200 pounds to approximately 275 pounds,” said Black. The weight gain was related to a massive edema, causing a buildup of fluid in his body.
“I was effectively filling up like a water balloon, from the bottom up,” commented Black.
“In addition to his legs, thighs and stomach stretching and swelling, he was experiencing massive amounts of protein leaching from his body. After several months, he was diagnosed with an auto-immune chronic kidney disease called membranous glomerulonephritis, which develops when inflammation of kidney structures causes problems with the function of kidneys.
He then visited Dr. Dan Bramlett, who recognized his symptoms and referred him to a nephrologist.
“The disease I have caused my immune system to begin to attack filtering membranes inside my kidneys,” commented Black. “Over the years, I have been through more treatments that I care to number or recount. I’ve had a few different types of chemotherapy, high dose steroids, and a twice weekly injection that (at the time) cost $2,600 a shot that I did for a total of nine months.
“I’ve bee hospitalized several times because of the disease due to episodes of extreme potassium deficiencies. Basically, potassium in your body helps to transfer the impulses from your nervous system to your muscles. With too little potassium, you experience cramps, weakness, and in some cases near or total paralysis of the muscles. A normal potassium level is 3.5 mmol/L to 5.1 mmol/L in adults; anything less than 2.5mmol/L is considered to be very serious and life threatening. The first time I was admitted to the hospital for such an episode, I was tested at approximately 1.7mmol/L and was paralyzed from the chest down for several days.”
In February 2019, Black was hospitalized yet again. Only four months later, he was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor. “On Sept. 22, I developed an immensely powerful migraine type of headache that lasted for four days. My left eye began to droop, and I was admitted to the ICU where it was found that the tumor had begun to grow (causing the eye droop as a result).”
On Oct. third, a successful surgery was performed to remove the tumor.
“Suffice it to say, the last 18-20 months have not been a fun time in regards to my health, not to speak of the last 18 years of fighting this disease,” said Black.
After confirming that he would need a new kidney, Black began the transplant process, finding out that his brother was a match.
“The process went very smoothly from the time I was referred to the transplant to the time that we found out that my brother was a match,” commented Black. “I am immeasurably lucky to have a brother who is a match for me, as well as who is willing to donate. If I did not have a donor lined up, and had to be on a waitlist, the wait could be as long as eight to 10 years for a kidney.”
Growing up, Black’s brother John Booker spent much time with and looked up to his older brother.
“We did everything together. Went to the Ritz Theater together all the time,” commented Booker. “Back when Salvation Skatepark was open in Thomaston, we would go there for hours until we couldn't skate anymore. He had as much fun watching me skate, and grow… Not only am I excited that I'm a match, I'm ecstatic my big bro gets a second chance at life. Not many people do, especially when it comes to a kidney transplant.”
“Kidney disease affects all people of any race, gender or origin. However, it is important to say that the National Kidney Foundation finds that people of African descent suffer from kidney disease at a markedly higher rate than other races,” stated Black. “African-Americans constitute more than 35 percent of all dialysis patients in the U.S., despite representing approximately 13 percent of the population. That is a rate of kidney failure almost three times higher than that of Caucasians. High blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes are risk factors for kidney disease.
“A kidney donation can be made by a living donor, and the process is very easy. In the very realest of ways, a donation of a kidney is a gift of life. I will never be able to adequately thank my brother for doing this for me. For going through this with me. There just simply are not words for it.
“I await the day after surgery when I wake up and I don’t feel badly any more. I’ll have my energy back, and I’ll be able to get on with life. For more information about donating, you can call the National Kidney Foundation at 1.855.653.2273 or email at nkfcares@kidney.org.
“I have set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses I will incur during my recovery. I will be posting updates all along the way throughout my recovery to that page. It’s https://www.gofundme.com/f/kidney-transplant-for-cris-black.”
By Luke Haney, Lifestyles Editor
After 18 years of fighting kidney issues, Cris Black’s brother stepped in to save his life.
At age 19, Black began to notice that he was gaining weight. “I had ballooned from my normal 200 pounds to approximately 275 pounds,” said Black. The weight gain was related to a massive edema, causing a buildup of fluid in his body.
“I was effectively filling up like a water balloon, from the bottom up,” commented Black.
“In addition to his legs, thighs and stomach stretching and swelling, he was experiencing massive amounts of protein leaching from his body. After several months, he was diagnosed with an auto-immune chronic kidney disease called membranous glomerulonephritis, which develops when inflammation of kidney structures causes problems with the function of kidneys.
He then visited Dr. Dan Bramlett, who recognized his symptoms and referred him to a nephrologist.
“The disease I have caused my immune system to begin to attack filtering membranes inside my kidneys,” commented Black. “Over the years, I have been through more treatments that I care to number or recount. I’ve had a few different types of chemotherapy, high dose steroids, and a twice weekly injection that (at the time) cost $2,600 a shot that I did for a total of nine months.
“I’ve bee hospitalized several times because of the disease due to episodes of extreme potassium deficiencies. Basically, potassium in your body helps to transfer the impulses from your nervous system to your muscles. With too little potassium, you experience cramps, weakness, and in some cases near or total paralysis of the muscles. A normal potassium level is 3.5 mmol/L to 5.1 mmol/L in adults; anything less than 2.5mmol/L is considered to be very serious and life threatening. The first time I was admitted to the hospital for such an episode, I was tested at approximately 1.7mmol/L and was paralyzed from the chest down for several days.”
In February 2019, Black was hospitalized yet again. Only four months later, he was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor. “On Sept. 22, I developed an immensely powerful migraine type of headache that lasted for four days. My left eye began to droop, and I was admitted to the ICU where it was found that the tumor had begun to grow (causing the eye droop as a result).”
On Oct. third, a successful surgery was performed to remove the tumor.
“Suffice it to say, the last 18-20 months have not been a fun time in regards to my health, not to speak of the last 18 years of fighting this disease,” said Black.
After confirming that he would need a new kidney, Black began the transplant process, finding out that his brother was a match.
“The process went very smoothly from the time I was referred to the transplant to the time that we found out that my brother was a match,” commented Black. “I am immeasurably lucky to have a brother who is a match for me, as well as who is willing to donate. If I did not have a donor lined up, and had to be on a waitlist, the wait could be as long as eight to 10 years for a kidney.”
Growing up, Black’s brother John Booker spent much time with and looked up to his older brother.
“We did everything together. Went to the Ritz Theater together all the time,” commented Booker. “Back when Salvation Skatepark was open in Thomaston, we would go there for hours until we couldn't skate anymore. He had as much fun watching me skate, and grow… Not only am I excited that I'm a match, I'm ecstatic my big bro gets a second chance at life. Not many people do, especially when it comes to a kidney transplant.”
“Kidney disease affects all people of any race, gender or origin. However, it is important to say that the National Kidney Foundation finds that people of African descent suffer from kidney disease at a markedly higher rate than other races,” stated Black. “African-Americans constitute more than 35 percent of all dialysis patients in the U.S., despite representing approximately 13 percent of the population. That is a rate of kidney failure almost three times higher than that of Caucasians. High blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes are risk factors for kidney disease.
“A kidney donation can be made by a living donor, and the process is very easy. In the very realest of ways, a donation of a kidney is a gift of life. I will never be able to adequately thank my brother for doing this for me. For going through this with me. There just simply are not words for it.
“I await the day after surgery when I wake up and I don’t feel badly any more. I’ll have my energy back, and I’ll be able to get on with life. For more information about donating, you can call the National Kidney Foundation at 1.855.653.2273 or email at nkfcares@kidney.org.
“I have set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses I will incur during my recovery. I will be posting updates all along the way throughout my recovery to that page. It’s https://www.gofundme.com/f/kidney-transplant-for-cris-black.”
Forsyth Man Charged in Aggravated Assault, Drug Possession & Trafficking
Published 9-17-2020
Following a “walk-in” complaint of domestic abuse, Justin Todd Passmore of Patrol Road in Forsyth was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and drug trafficking last week, according to a Thomaston Police Department report.
While a female complainant was filing a domestic abuse report at TPD, Patrolman Peter Spahn was called to Days Inn on Highway 19 North regarding a subject (Passmore) refusing to check out of his room. After making the connection, Spahn detained Passmore for questioning.
Passmore’s actions indicated “a medical condition, possibly a drug overdose,” according to the report, so officers requested the assistance of emergency medical services. Passmore eventually was transported to Upson Regional Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.
A search of a bag in Passmore’s possession revealed a smaller bag of suspected methamphetamine, a bag of colored pills, a glass pipe, a scale, and other related items, the report stated.
Upon return to TPD, Spahn “observed numerous areas of swelling and bruises on [the complainant’s] face and arms, [her] left eye was black, the inside of her bottom lip was busted, and a large bruise could be seen on her right upper arm near the shoulder,” according to the report.
The victim stated Passmore “forced her to swallow a ‘bean’ (street name for ecstasy) and had repeatedly punched and kicked her over the course of the night while he smoked methamphetamine.” The assault began in his car, and continued in his room at the Days Inn, she said.
Passmore was released from URMC, transported to Upson County Jail and charged with aggravated assault, possession of meth with intent to distribute, trafficking in illegal drugs, and possession and use of drug-related items, the report read.
Other recent charges reported by TPD include:
Eric Claude Peaden, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; possession of a Schedule III controlled substance, and possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance;
Jennrice Quartil McDowell, felony theft by taking, along with misdemeanor battery (family violence);
Keith Shumate, possession of counterfeit narcotics with intent to distribute.
Following a “walk-in” complaint of domestic abuse, Justin Todd Passmore of Patrol Road in Forsyth was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and drug trafficking last week, according to a Thomaston Police Department report.
While a female complainant was filing a domestic abuse report at TPD, Patrolman Peter Spahn was called to Days Inn on Highway 19 North regarding a subject (Passmore) refusing to check out of his room. After making the connection, Spahn detained Passmore for questioning.
Passmore’s actions indicated “a medical condition, possibly a drug overdose,” according to the report, so officers requested the assistance of emergency medical services. Passmore eventually was transported to Upson Regional Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.
A search of a bag in Passmore’s possession revealed a smaller bag of suspected methamphetamine, a bag of colored pills, a glass pipe, a scale, and other related items, the report stated.
Upon return to TPD, Spahn “observed numerous areas of swelling and bruises on [the complainant’s] face and arms, [her] left eye was black, the inside of her bottom lip was busted, and a large bruise could be seen on her right upper arm near the shoulder,” according to the report.
The victim stated Passmore “forced her to swallow a ‘bean’ (street name for ecstasy) and had repeatedly punched and kicked her over the course of the night while he smoked methamphetamine.” The assault began in his car, and continued in his room at the Days Inn, she said.
Passmore was released from URMC, transported to Upson County Jail and charged with aggravated assault, possession of meth with intent to distribute, trafficking in illegal drugs, and possession and use of drug-related items, the report read.
Other recent charges reported by TPD include:
Eric Claude Peaden, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; possession of a Schedule III controlled substance, and possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance;
Jennrice Quartil McDowell, felony theft by taking, along with misdemeanor battery (family violence);
Keith Shumate, possession of counterfeit narcotics with intent to distribute.
SouthCrest Group to Acquire Colony Bank Branch in Thomaston
Published 9-17-2020
SouthCrest Financial Group, the holding company for SouthCrest Bank, N.A., and Colony Bankcorp, Inc. have announced an agreement for SouthCrest to acquire the Thomaston branch of Colony Bank, located at 206 North Church Street.
The transaction, which is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2020, subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions, is expected to result in the transfer of approximately $3 million in fully performing loans, and approximately $40 million in deposits, with a deposit premium of three percent.
The agreement also includes an option for SouthCrest to purchase the branch building.
SouthCrest chief executive officer Brian D. Schmitt stated, “We are extremely excited to be adding to our position as the leading bank in Thomaston and Upson County. We look forward to giving the same great service to our new customers that we have provided in Upson County for nearly 70 years.”
Colony expects the transaction to reduce operating expenses while having little effect on its balance sheet.
“Decisions like these are never easy or taken lightly,” commented Colony Bankcorp president and CEO Heath Fountain. “We have enjoyed serving customers in the Thomaston area for over 16 years, and we are very grateful to have had the opportunity to do so.”
“However, we are continuously reviewing our branch network to ensure that all branches operate in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible,” Fountain continued. “Thomaston is a great market, but it does not fit our current strategy of operating in markets where we can compete against larger regional and national banks. SouthCrest Bank is a full-service, locally based community bank, and we are confident that our Thomaston customers will be well served.”
The Church Street location will close operations as a Colony Bank branch upon completion of the transaction. Customers affected by the closing will receive additional information. For questions, please call 706-647-6601.
SouthCrest Financial Group, Inc. is a bank holding company with over $500 million in assets, headquartered in Atlanta. The company operates a nine-branch network throughout Georgia through its subsidiary bank, SouthCrest Bank, N.A.
SouthCrest Financial Group, the holding company for SouthCrest Bank, N.A., and Colony Bankcorp, Inc. have announced an agreement for SouthCrest to acquire the Thomaston branch of Colony Bank, located at 206 North Church Street.
The transaction, which is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2020, subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions, is expected to result in the transfer of approximately $3 million in fully performing loans, and approximately $40 million in deposits, with a deposit premium of three percent.
The agreement also includes an option for SouthCrest to purchase the branch building.
SouthCrest chief executive officer Brian D. Schmitt stated, “We are extremely excited to be adding to our position as the leading bank in Thomaston and Upson County. We look forward to giving the same great service to our new customers that we have provided in Upson County for nearly 70 years.”
Colony expects the transaction to reduce operating expenses while having little effect on its balance sheet.
“Decisions like these are never easy or taken lightly,” commented Colony Bankcorp president and CEO Heath Fountain. “We have enjoyed serving customers in the Thomaston area for over 16 years, and we are very grateful to have had the opportunity to do so.”
“However, we are continuously reviewing our branch network to ensure that all branches operate in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible,” Fountain continued. “Thomaston is a great market, but it does not fit our current strategy of operating in markets where we can compete against larger regional and national banks. SouthCrest Bank is a full-service, locally based community bank, and we are confident that our Thomaston customers will be well served.”
The Church Street location will close operations as a Colony Bank branch upon completion of the transaction. Customers affected by the closing will receive additional information. For questions, please call 706-647-6601.
SouthCrest Financial Group, Inc. is a bank holding company with over $500 million in assets, headquartered in Atlanta. The company operates a nine-branch network throughout Georgia through its subsidiary bank, SouthCrest Bank, N.A.
Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce's Annual Flint River Poker Float
Nearly 140 participants floated the Flint River during the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce’s 10th Annual Flint River Poker Float.
Participants had the ability to float the river from Sprewell Bluff to the Flint River Outdoor Center. Stations were set up along the river route for participants to draw cards. Those with the best hand at the end won.
Winners of the Kayak and Cooler Raffle, sponsored by Georgia Power, GLL Marine, AgSouth and Thomaston Hardware, were Terry Salter, who won the kayak, and Bob Brewer, who won the YETI backpack cooler.
Poker Float Winners are as follows:
•With a hand of four queens, Scott Page of Bonaire won first place and a kayak.
•With a full house of 3s and Aces, Hallie Zitterouer of Thomaston won second place and $250.
•With a flush-2, 5, 9, 10 and queen, all spades, Ferrell Cromer of Gray took home third place and $150.
•The worst hand and a prize of $100 went to Billy Daniels of Juliette with 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8.
•Fifth place: Phillip Hall of Griffin
•Sixth place: Phil Davidson of Monticello
•Seventh place: Sandy Chancey of Lizella
•Eighth place: Trinity Jenema of McDonough
•Ninth place: Lee Moore of Macon
•Tenth place: Shawn Gallagher of Costa Mesa, Cal.
•50/50 drawing winner of $490: Kristy Jenema of McDonough
•Early Bird Drawing Winner of a YETI coolor: Reggie Hartley of Molena
The 2020 Poker Float was sponsored by the following:
TenCate; Georgia Power; Southern Company; Richard Bishoff; State Farm; Century 21; AgSouth; Flint River Outdoor Center; Flint River Outdoor Center; Flint River Keepers; The People’s Bank; GLL Marine; Thomaston-Upson Emergency Management; Thomaston Family Medicine; Sprewell Bluff Park; Griffin Ob-Gyn; Thurston Volunteer Fire Department; Central Georgia Heating and Cooling; West Central Georgia Bank; United Bank; The Upson Beacon; Southern Rivers Energy; Driver & Adams, CPA; Colony Bank; Edward Jones, Wynn Trice- Financial Advisor; Pasley, Nuce, Mallory & Davis LLC; The Shop, LLC; Speedi Lube. Photos by Luke Haney.
Participants had the ability to float the river from Sprewell Bluff to the Flint River Outdoor Center. Stations were set up along the river route for participants to draw cards. Those with the best hand at the end won.
Winners of the Kayak and Cooler Raffle, sponsored by Georgia Power, GLL Marine, AgSouth and Thomaston Hardware, were Terry Salter, who won the kayak, and Bob Brewer, who won the YETI backpack cooler.
Poker Float Winners are as follows:
•With a hand of four queens, Scott Page of Bonaire won first place and a kayak.
•With a full house of 3s and Aces, Hallie Zitterouer of Thomaston won second place and $250.
•With a flush-2, 5, 9, 10 and queen, all spades, Ferrell Cromer of Gray took home third place and $150.
•The worst hand and a prize of $100 went to Billy Daniels of Juliette with 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8.
•Fifth place: Phillip Hall of Griffin
•Sixth place: Phil Davidson of Monticello
•Seventh place: Sandy Chancey of Lizella
•Eighth place: Trinity Jenema of McDonough
•Ninth place: Lee Moore of Macon
•Tenth place: Shawn Gallagher of Costa Mesa, Cal.
•50/50 drawing winner of $490: Kristy Jenema of McDonough
•Early Bird Drawing Winner of a YETI coolor: Reggie Hartley of Molena
The 2020 Poker Float was sponsored by the following:
TenCate; Georgia Power; Southern Company; Richard Bishoff; State Farm; Century 21; AgSouth; Flint River Outdoor Center; Flint River Outdoor Center; Flint River Keepers; The People’s Bank; GLL Marine; Thomaston-Upson Emergency Management; Thomaston Family Medicine; Sprewell Bluff Park; Griffin Ob-Gyn; Thurston Volunteer Fire Department; Central Georgia Heating and Cooling; West Central Georgia Bank; United Bank; The Upson Beacon; Southern Rivers Energy; Driver & Adams, CPA; Colony Bank; Edward Jones, Wynn Trice- Financial Advisor; Pasley, Nuce, Mallory & Davis LLC; The Shop, LLC; Speedi Lube. Photos by Luke Haney.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
Crawford County Reports First COVID Death
Published 8-27-2020
Upson County reported 663 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 53 deaths and 65 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 31 from the 632 confirmed cases, four new deaths, and increase of three hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was substantially reduced from the previous one-week period’s rise of 91.
Upson’s infection rate is 252.3 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 11.8 from 240.5 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita rate of increase is also markedly less than the increase of 34.6 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 256,253 cases (17,392 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 19,836) as of noon Tuesday, with 23,425 hospitalized (up 1,292/prior week’s increase was 1,457) and 5,156 deaths (up 429/prior week’s increase was 498).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 576 (207.7 per 10k) and 33 deaths, 69 hospitalized; Meriwether with 459 (218.4 per 10k) and eight deaths, 56 hospitalized; Lamar, 313 (161.8 per 10k) and 15 deaths, 33 hospitalized; Pike, 266 (141 per 10k) with eight deaths and 23 hospitalized; Talbot, 152 (246.8 per 10k) with five deaths and 22 hospitalized; Crawford, 146 (119.4 per 10k) with the first COVID-related death and 19 hospitalized; and Taylor, 118 (148.3 per 10k) with four deaths and 19 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose only one from 242 to 243 during the same one-week period, with 44 resident deaths, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (94 residents/94 tested) with 53 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 17 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (77 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 30 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (49 residents/70 tested) reports 51 resident cases (up one), 32 resident recoveries, 16 staff cases (no increase) and 12 resident deaths (up two) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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 663 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 53 deaths and 65 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 31 from the 632 confirmed cases, four new deaths, and increase of three hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase was substantially reduced from the previous one-week period’s rise of 91.
Upson’s infection rate is 252.3 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 11.8 from 240.5 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita rate of increase is also markedly less than the increase of 34.6 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia rose to 256,253 cases (17,392 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 19,836) as of noon Tuesday, with 23,425 hospitalized (up 1,292/prior week’s increase was 1,457) and 5,156 deaths (up 429/prior week’s increase was 498).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 576 (207.7 per 10k) and 33 deaths, 69 hospitalized; Meriwether with 459 (218.4 per 10k) and eight deaths, 56 hospitalized; Lamar, 313 (161.8 per 10k) and 15 deaths, 33 hospitalized; Pike, 266 (141 per 10k) with eight deaths and 23 hospitalized; Talbot, 152 (246.8 per 10k) with five deaths and 22 hospitalized; Crawford, 146 (119.4 per 10k) with the first COVID-related death and 19 hospitalized; and Taylor, 118 (148.3 per 10k) with four deaths and 19 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose only one from 242 to 243 during the same one-week period, with 44 resident deaths, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (94 residents/94 tested) with 53 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 17 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (77 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 30 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (49 residents/70 tested) reports 51 resident cases (up one), 32 resident recoveries, 16 staff cases (no increase) and 12 resident deaths (up two) from last week.
The Centers for Disease Control 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.
URMC Joins #MaskUpGA Campaign
Britney Fletcher
Published 8-20-2020
Upson Regional Medical Center has joined #MaskUpGA, a campaign to encourage all Georgians to make the choice to wear face coverings when in public settings and to social distance when possible to slow or stop the spread of COVID-19 in the state.
The purpose of the campaign is to encourage organizations, businesses, and individuals to post on social media pictures or videos of themselves wearing masks and to accompany these posts with #MaskUpGA and a message about why they “mask up.”
“This campaign is about Georgians coming together for the greater good,” said Jeff Tarrant, URMC chief executive officer. “We, along with Gov. Brian Kemp, urge everyone to make the choice to wear a mask as part of collective efforts to stop the spread of this virus. Together, we can help keep our state healthy and well.”
Research and data show that wearing face coverings helps reduce the spread of COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing masks is “a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19 that could reduce the spread of disease, particularly when used universally within communities.”
The CDC further states that wearing masks potentially slows the spread of the virus from one person to another.
As URMC ensures its ability to treat all patients who come through its doors and prepares for potential surges, it is more important now than ever that Georgians remain healthy and do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Along with Upson Regional Medical Center, several organizations around the state have committed to joining the campaign’s efforts.
Upson Regional Medical Center has joined #MaskUpGA, a campaign to encourage all Georgians to make the choice to wear face coverings when in public settings and to social distance when possible to slow or stop the spread of COVID-19 in the state.
The purpose of the campaign is to encourage organizations, businesses, and individuals to post on social media pictures or videos of themselves wearing masks and to accompany these posts with #MaskUpGA and a message about why they “mask up.”
“This campaign is about Georgians coming together for the greater good,” said Jeff Tarrant, URMC chief executive officer. “We, along with Gov. Brian Kemp, urge everyone to make the choice to wear a mask as part of collective efforts to stop the spread of this virus. Together, we can help keep our state healthy and well.”
Research and data show that wearing face coverings helps reduce the spread of COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing masks is “a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19 that could reduce the spread of disease, particularly when used universally within communities.”
The CDC further states that wearing masks potentially slows the spread of the virus from one person to another.
As URMC ensures its ability to treat all patients who come through its doors and prepares for potential surges, it is more important now than ever that Georgians remain healthy and do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Along with Upson Regional Medical Center, several organizations around the state have committed to joining the campaign’s efforts.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
Published 8-20-2020
Upson County reported 632 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 49 deaths and 62 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 91 from the 541 confirmed cases, three new deaths, and increase of four hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 53.
Upson’s infection rate is 240.5 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 34.6 from 205.9 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita rate of increase is higher than the increase of 20.2 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 238,861 cases (19,836 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 23,590) as of noon Tuesday, with 22,133 hospitalized (up 1,457/prior week’s increase was 1,552) and 4,727 deaths (up 498/prior week’s increase was 387).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 505 (182.1 per 10k) and 30 deaths, 62 hospitalized; Meriwether with 440 (209.3 per 10k) and seven deaths, 51 hospitalized; Lamar, 296 (153 per 10k) and 14 deaths, 30 hospitalized; Pike, 246 (130.4 per 10k) with six deaths and 22 hospitalized; Talbot, 147 (238.7 per 10k) with five deaths and 21 hospitalized; Crawford, 120 (98.1 per 10k) with no deaths and 16 hospitalized; and Taylor, 107 (134.5 per 10k) with four deaths and 16 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose from 235 to 242 during the same one-week period, with three new resident deaths for a total of 46, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (93 residents/94 tested) with 53 resident cases (up one), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 21 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (80 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 30 staff cases (up one), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (49 residents/68 tested) reports 50 resident cases (up two), 19 resident recoveries, 16 staff cases (up three) and 10 resident deaths (up three) from last week.
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 632 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 49 deaths and 62 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 91 from the 541 confirmed cases, three new deaths, and increase of four hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 53.
Upson’s infection rate is 240.5 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 34.6 from 205.9 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita rate of increase is higher than the increase of 20.2 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 238,861 cases (19,836 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 23,590) as of noon Tuesday, with 22,133 hospitalized (up 1,457/prior week’s increase was 1,552) and 4,727 deaths (up 498/prior week’s increase was 387).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 505 (182.1 per 10k) and 30 deaths, 62 hospitalized; Meriwether with 440 (209.3 per 10k) and seven deaths, 51 hospitalized; Lamar, 296 (153 per 10k) and 14 deaths, 30 hospitalized; Pike, 246 (130.4 per 10k) with six deaths and 22 hospitalized; Talbot, 147 (238.7 per 10k) with five deaths and 21 hospitalized; Crawford, 120 (98.1 per 10k) with no deaths and 16 hospitalized; and Taylor, 107 (134.5 per 10k) with four deaths and 16 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) rose from 235 to 242 during the same one-week period, with three new resident deaths for a total of 46, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (93 residents/94 tested) with 53 resident cases (up one), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 21 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (80 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 30 staff cases (up one), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (49 residents/68 tested) reports 50 resident cases (up two), 19 resident recoveries, 16 staff cases (up three) and 10 resident deaths (up three) from last week.
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 COVID-19 Update
Published 8-13-2020
Upson County reported 541 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 46 deaths and 58 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 53 from the 488 confirmed cases, no new deaths, and increase of five hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 40.
Upson’s infection rate is 205.9 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 20.2 from 185.7 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita rate of increase is higher than the increase of 15.2 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 219,025 cases (23,590 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 24,592) as of noon Tuesday, with 20,676 hospitalized (up 1,552/prior week’s increase was 1,986) and 4,229 deaths (up 387/prior week’s increase was 333).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 460 (165.9 per 10k) and 25 deaths, 59 hospitalized; Meriwether with 396 (188.4 per 10k) and six deaths, 47 hospitalized; Lamar, 275 (142.1 per 10k) and 12 deaths, 29 hospitalized; Pike, 216 (114.5 per 10k) with four deaths and 20 hospitalized; Talbot, 138 (224.1 per 10k) with three deaths and 20 hospitalized; Crawford, 104 (85.1 per 10k) with no deaths and 12 hospitalized; and Taylor, 88 (110.6 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) jumped from 208 to 235 during the same one-week period, with six new resident deaths for a total of 43, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (97 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 21 resident deaths (up one). Providence (80 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (up one), 49 resident recoveries, 29 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (49 residents/64 tested) reports 48 resident cases (up 26), 18 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (no increase) and seven resident deaths (up five) from last week.
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 541 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 46 deaths and 58 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 53 from the 488 confirmed cases, no new deaths, and increase of five hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 40.
Upson’s infection rate is 205.9 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 20.2 from 185.7 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita rate of increase is higher than the increase of 15.2 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 219,025 cases (23,590 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 24,592) as of noon Tuesday, with 20,676 hospitalized (up 1,552/prior week’s increase was 1,986) and 4,229 deaths (up 387/prior week’s increase was 333).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 460 (165.9 per 10k) and 25 deaths, 59 hospitalized; Meriwether with 396 (188.4 per 10k) and six deaths, 47 hospitalized; Lamar, 275 (142.1 per 10k) and 12 deaths, 29 hospitalized; Pike, 216 (114.5 per 10k) with four deaths and 20 hospitalized; Talbot, 138 (224.1 per 10k) with three deaths and 20 hospitalized; Crawford, 104 (85.1 per 10k) with no deaths and 12 hospitalized; and Taylor, 88 (110.6 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) jumped from 208 to 235 during the same one-week period, with six new resident deaths for a total of 43, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (97 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 21 resident deaths (up one). Providence (80 residents/85 tested) reports 65 resident cases (up one), 49 resident recoveries, 29 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (49 residents/64 tested) reports 48 resident cases (up 26), 18 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (no increase) and seven resident deaths (up five) from last week.
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 Census Response Rate 62%, Visits Begin
Published 8-13-2020
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 62 percent as of Aug. 9, trailing the national average of 63.3 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 59 percent rate, which still ranks 37th among all states.
The self-response rate fell short of local performance 10 years ago, when the final Upson County Census 2010 rate was 65 percent.
Upson ranks 26th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 17 percent of the state. Upson ranked as high as fifth early in the process. Tract 103 (in the western third of the county from Molena to south of Adam’s Ferry Road, as far east as Hightower Lake/Basin Creek) continues to lead the county with a 65.9 percent response rate. Tract 105 trails with 59.8 percent, according to local officials.
In the municipality listing on the census website, there are 539 towns and cities in Georgia. Thomaston is tied at 89th with Thomasville and Homer, each with a 60.4 percent response rate. Yatesville is 206th at 53.3 percent.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 64.4 percent, Lamar at 62.3, Monroe at 59.4, Meriwether at 54.7, Crawford at 51.5, Talbot at 36.7 and Taylor at 36.5 percent.
From now until the end of September, census takers will visit non-responsive homes to collect information. If no one is home, they will leave a notice of their visit with information about how to respond.
If someone visits your home this year to collect information for the 2020 Census, make sure they have a valid identification badge with photograph, a US Dept. of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date. Census workers may also carry Census Bureau bags and other equipment with the Census Bureau logo. They will wear masks and will follow local public health guidelines when they visit.
The census can still be completed online, by phone or by mail.
Online: To access the 2020 Census questionnaire in English, navigate to . Click on the globe icon at the top of the page and select a language. You can also select your preferred language there, at the bottom of any screen.
Phone: To begin in English, call . If you have vacant or vacation properties in Upson County, those need to be reported to the Census Bureau too, as vacant or only occasionally used properties. That will stop enumerators from visiting those residences.
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 62 percent as of Aug. 9, trailing the national average of 63.3 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 59 percent rate, which still ranks 37th among all states.
The self-response rate fell short of local performance 10 years ago, when the final Upson County Census 2010 rate was 65 percent.
Upson ranks 26th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 17 percent of the state. Upson ranked as high as fifth early in the process. Tract 103 (in the western third of the county from Molena to south of Adam’s Ferry Road, as far east as Hightower Lake/Basin Creek) continues to lead the county with a 65.9 percent response rate. Tract 105 trails with 59.8 percent, according to local officials.
In the municipality listing on the census website, there are 539 towns and cities in Georgia. Thomaston is tied at 89th with Thomasville and Homer, each with a 60.4 percent response rate. Yatesville is 206th at 53.3 percent.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 64.4 percent, Lamar at 62.3, Monroe at 59.4, Meriwether at 54.7, Crawford at 51.5, Talbot at 36.7 and Taylor at 36.5 percent.
From now until the end of September, census takers will visit non-responsive homes to collect information. If no one is home, they will leave a notice of their visit with information about how to respond.
If someone visits your home this year to collect information for the 2020 Census, make sure they have a valid identification badge with photograph, a US Dept. of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date. Census workers may also carry Census Bureau bags and other equipment with the Census Bureau logo. They will wear masks and will follow local public health guidelines when they visit.
The census can still be completed online, by phone or by mail.
Online: To access the 2020 Census questionnaire in English, navigate to . Click on the globe icon at the top of the page and select a language. You can also select your preferred language there, at the bottom of any screen.
Phone: To begin in English, call . If you have vacant or vacation properties in Upson County, those need to be reported to the Census Bureau too, as vacant or only occasionally used properties. That will stop enumerators from visiting those residences.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
Published 8-6-2020
Upson County reported 488 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 46 deaths and 53 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 40 from the 448 confirmed cases, increase of one death, and increase of three hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 29.
Upson’s infection rate is 185.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 15.2 from 170.5 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is higher than the increase of 11.0 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 195,435 cases (24,592 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 25,268) as of noon Tuesday, with 19,124 hospitalized (up 1,986/prior week’s increase was 2,091) and 3,842 deaths (up 333/prior week’s increase also was 333).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 428 (154.4 per 10k) and 23 deaths, 52 hospitalized; Meriwether with 358 (170.3 per 10k) and five deaths, 46 hospitalized; Lamar, 237 (122.5 per 10k) and nine deaths, 27 hospitalized; Pike, 195 (103.4 per 10k) with four deaths and 17 hospitalized; Talbot, 128 (207.9 per 10k) with three deaths and 19 hospitalized; Crawford, 89 (72.8 per 10k) with no deaths and 10 hospitalized; and Taylor, 71 (89.2 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased from 201 to 208 during the same one-week period, with two new resident deaths for a total of 37, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (97 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 20 resident deaths (up one). Providence (81 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 29 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (56 residents/64 tested) reports 22 resident cases (up two), 16 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (up five) and two resident deaths (up one) from last week.
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 488 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 46 deaths and 53 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 40 from the 448 confirmed cases, increase of one death, and increase of three hospitalizations from noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 29.
Upson’s infection rate is 185.7 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 15.2 from 170.5 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is higher than the increase of 11.0 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 195,435 cases (24,592 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 25,268) as of noon Tuesday, with 19,124 hospitalized (up 1,986/prior week’s increase was 2,091) and 3,842 deaths (up 333/prior week’s increase also was 333).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 428 (154.4 per 10k) and 23 deaths, 52 hospitalized; Meriwether with 358 (170.3 per 10k) and five deaths, 46 hospitalized; Lamar, 237 (122.5 per 10k) and nine deaths, 27 hospitalized; Pike, 195 (103.4 per 10k) with four deaths and 17 hospitalized; Talbot, 128 (207.9 per 10k) with three deaths and 19 hospitalized; Crawford, 89 (72.8 per 10k) with no deaths and 10 hospitalized; and Taylor, 71 (89.2 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased from 201 to 208 during the same one-week period, with two new resident deaths for a total of 37, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (97 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 20 resident deaths (up one). Providence (81 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 29 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (56 residents/64 tested) reports 22 resident cases (up two), 16 resident recoveries, 13 staff cases (up five) and two resident deaths (up one) from last week.
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.
Chamber Concert is Postponed to Spring
Published 8-6-2020
The Aug. 15 concert featuring Rolling Stones tribute band Jumping Jack Flash and Tom Petty tribute band The Wildflowers has ben postponed until spring 2021, according to a press release Monday from the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce.
“After consulting with our chamber executive board, receiving an email recommendation from the CEO of Upson Regional Medical Center, and following the extended guidelines set forth by Gov. Brian Kemp, we have decided to postpone the August concert,” Chamber President Lori Smith said.
Anyone who has purchased a ticket for the August concert may obtain a refund at the chamber office, 110 West Main Street, on the square in Thomaston.
“The chamber would like to thank our concert sponsors, as well as concert attendees, for their continued support of the Chamber's Annual Concert Series,” Smith commented. “This is necessary due to the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic and the increase of cases in Upson County.
“We are looking forward to continuing our concert series next year and ask for your support and understanding,” she concluded. “However, the health and safety of our community is most important. Keep Shining Upson!”
The Aug. 15 concert featuring Rolling Stones tribute band Jumping Jack Flash and Tom Petty tribute band The Wildflowers has ben postponed until spring 2021, according to a press release Monday from the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce.
“After consulting with our chamber executive board, receiving an email recommendation from the CEO of Upson Regional Medical Center, and following the extended guidelines set forth by Gov. Brian Kemp, we have decided to postpone the August concert,” Chamber President Lori Smith said.
Anyone who has purchased a ticket for the August concert may obtain a refund at the chamber office, 110 West Main Street, on the square in Thomaston.
“The chamber would like to thank our concert sponsors, as well as concert attendees, for their continued support of the Chamber's Annual Concert Series,” Smith commented. “This is necessary due to the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic and the increase of cases in Upson County.
“We are looking forward to continuing our concert series next year and ask for your support and understanding,” she concluded. “However, the health and safety of our community is most important. Keep Shining Upson!”
Troop 134 Attends Council Meeting
Members of area Scout Troop 134 attended the July 21 Thomaston City Council meeting to observe the decision-making process involving local government officials. Members of the troop are shown standing in front of, from left, councilmembers Don Greathouse and Jeff Middlebrooks, Mayor J.D. Stallings, and councilmembers Ryan Tucker and Lakeitha Reeves. Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Head did not attend the meeting.
Upson County COVID-19 Update
Published 7-30-2020
Upson County reported 448 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 45 deaths and 50 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 29 from the 419 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, no increase in hospitalizations at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 26.
Upson’s infection rate is 170.5 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 11.0 from 159.5 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is slightly higher than the increase of 9.9 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 170,843 cases (25,268 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 25,006) as of noon Tuesday, with 17,138 hospitalized (up 2,091/prior week’s increase was 1,571) and 3,509 deaths (up 333/prior week’s increase was 150).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 376 (135.6 per 10k) and 22 deaths, 45 hospitalized; Meriwether with 323 (153.7 per 10k) and five deaths, 42 hospitalized; Lamar, 200 (103.4 per 10k) and eight deaths, 21 hospitalized; Pike, 167 (88.5 per 10k) with three deaths and 15 hospitalized; Talbot, 121 (196.5 per 10k) with three deaths and 18 hospitalized; Crawford, 81 (55.6 per 10k) with no deaths and 10 hospitalized; and Taylor, 62 (65.3 per 10k) with two deaths and 13 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased from 198 to 201 during the same one-week period, with one new resident deaths for a total of 35, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (99 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 19 resident deaths (up one). Providence (75 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 29 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (58 residents/64 tested) reports 20 resident cases (up one), five resident recoveries, eight staff cases (up two) and one resident death (no increase) from last week.
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 or ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 448 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 45 deaths and 50 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 29 from the 419 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, no increase in hospitalizations at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 26.
Upson’s infection rate is 170.5 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 11.0 from 159.5 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is slightly higher than the increase of 9.9 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 170,843 cases (25,268 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 25,006) as of noon Tuesday, with 17,138 hospitalized (up 2,091/prior week’s increase was 1,571) and 3,509 deaths (up 333/prior week’s increase was 150).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Monroe with 376 (135.6 per 10k) and 22 deaths, 45 hospitalized; Meriwether with 323 (153.7 per 10k) and five deaths, 42 hospitalized; Lamar, 200 (103.4 per 10k) and eight deaths, 21 hospitalized; Pike, 167 (88.5 per 10k) with three deaths and 15 hospitalized; Talbot, 121 (196.5 per 10k) with three deaths and 18 hospitalized; Crawford, 81 (55.6 per 10k) with no deaths and 10 hospitalized; and Taylor, 62 (65.3 per 10k) with two deaths and 13 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased from 198 to 201 during the same one-week period, with one new resident deaths for a total of 35, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (99 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 36 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 19 resident deaths (up one). Providence (75 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 29 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase). Riverside (58 residents/64 tested) reports 20 resident cases (up one), five resident recoveries, eight staff cases (up two) and one resident death (no increase) from last week.
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 or ncov/index.html.
Masks: ‘To Wear or Not To Wear’
Published 7-23-2020
The mask feud between Gov. Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has placed Georgia in the national spotlight recently, and small towns are not immune to disagreement over whether “to wear, or not to wear” the protective face coverings.
Regardless of individual opinions, the Georgia Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control strongly recommend the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain.
It is not possible to contact every business, but following is a list of service providers, government offices and locations which have designated “required” and “not required” zones.
Not required:
•Most local small retail businesses, restaurants, and general service providers do not require face masks, and are allowing customers to make the decision based on personal preference.
•Cherokee Pharmacy encourages, but does not require, masks. Curbside pickup is offered.
•Thomaston Prescription Shop encourages, but does not require, masks. Convenient drive-thru service is available.
•West Central Georgia Bank lobby is open and masks are encouraged, but not required. Drive-thru service is available.
•People’s Bank of Georgia encourages, but does not require, masks.
•City and county government offices recommend and encourage face coverings, but masks are not required.
•Upson County Sheriff’s Office lobby is open and face masks are recommended, but are not mandatory.
•Thomaston Fire Department is open with limited access to the public, by appointment only.
Mask Required:
•Northside Drugs requires masks and offers curbside pickup service.
•Colony Bank requires masks, lobby is open with no appointment necessary, and drive-thru service is available.
•SouthCrest Bank requires masks, lobby is open for appointments only, and drive-thru service is available.
•United Bank requires masks, lobby is open, and drive-thru service is available.
•All healthcare facilities require masks.
•The following chain stores require masks: Ingles, Walmart, Home Depot, Walgreens, Dollar General, and Dollar Tree. (Family Dollar is owned by the same company as Dollar Tree, but has not ordered masks mandatory at press time)
•Upson County Probate, Magistrate, Clerk of Superior Court, Tax Commissioner and Tax Assessor’s offices, along with all court visits and proceedings and the district attorney’s offices, require masks per judicial order.
•Upson County Jail is not allowing visitors for inmates; the jail lobby is open, and masks are required.
•Thomaston Police Department’s lobby is currently closed to the public.
The mask feud between Gov. Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has placed Georgia in the national spotlight recently, and small towns are not immune to disagreement over whether “to wear, or not to wear” the protective face coverings.
Regardless of individual opinions, the Georgia Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control strongly recommend the use of face masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where social distancing is difficult to maintain.
It is not possible to contact every business, but following is a list of service providers, government offices and locations which have designated “required” and “not required” zones.
Not required:
•Most local small retail businesses, restaurants, and general service providers do not require face masks, and are allowing customers to make the decision based on personal preference.
•Cherokee Pharmacy encourages, but does not require, masks. Curbside pickup is offered.
•Thomaston Prescription Shop encourages, but does not require, masks. Convenient drive-thru service is available.
•West Central Georgia Bank lobby is open and masks are encouraged, but not required. Drive-thru service is available.
•People’s Bank of Georgia encourages, but does not require, masks.
•City and county government offices recommend and encourage face coverings, but masks are not required.
•Upson County Sheriff’s Office lobby is open and face masks are recommended, but are not mandatory.
•Thomaston Fire Department is open with limited access to the public, by appointment only.
Mask Required:
•Northside Drugs requires masks and offers curbside pickup service.
•Colony Bank requires masks, lobby is open with no appointment necessary, and drive-thru service is available.
•SouthCrest Bank requires masks, lobby is open for appointments only, and drive-thru service is available.
•United Bank requires masks, lobby is open, and drive-thru service is available.
•All healthcare facilities require masks.
•The following chain stores require masks: Ingles, Walmart, Home Depot, Walgreens, Dollar General, and Dollar Tree. (Family Dollar is owned by the same company as Dollar Tree, but has not ordered masks mandatory at press time)
•Upson County Probate, Magistrate, Clerk of Superior Court, Tax Commissioner and Tax Assessor’s offices, along with all court visits and proceedings and the district attorney’s offices, require masks per judicial order.
•Upson County Jail is not allowing visitors for inmates; the jail lobby is open, and masks are required.
•Thomaston Police Department’s lobby is currently closed to the public.
GBI Promotes Rhonda Daniel to
Assistant Special Agent in Charge
ASAC Rhonda Daniel
Published 7-16-2020
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation recently announced the promotion of Thomaston native Rhonda Daniel to assistant special agent in charge of the GBI Region 13 Field Office in Perry.
ASAC Daniel will assist the special agent in charge with supervision of the special agents assigned to Region 13. The region office serves 10 middle Georgia counties and conducts major investigations to include use of force, homicide, aggravated assault, rape, child abuse, armed robbery, fraud, and other felonies.
Daniel began her career with the GBI in July 2012 when she was hired as a special agent. Her first assignment was at Region 13, where she was appointed as the child abuse specialist. In 2016, Daniel transferred to the GBI’s Commercial Gambling Unit, where she was assigned until her recent promotion.
Daniel obtained a bachelor’s degree in justice studies from Georgia Southern University in 2001. In 2003, she received a master’s degree in public administration with an emphasis in justice administration from Columbus State University.
Daniel has been a P.O.S.T. certified instructor since 2016, providing instruction in defensive tactics, use of force, and advanced law enforcement rapid response training (ALERRT).
The GBI is comprised of three divisions: the Georgia Crime Information Center, the Crime Laboratory, and the Investigative Division. The agency has more than 820 employees and a budget of $98.8 million. ASAC Daniel is assigned to the investigative division.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation recently announced the promotion of Thomaston native Rhonda Daniel to assistant special agent in charge of the GBI Region 13 Field Office in Perry.
ASAC Daniel will assist the special agent in charge with supervision of the special agents assigned to Region 13. The region office serves 10 middle Georgia counties and conducts major investigations to include use of force, homicide, aggravated assault, rape, child abuse, armed robbery, fraud, and other felonies.
Daniel began her career with the GBI in July 2012 when she was hired as a special agent. Her first assignment was at Region 13, where she was appointed as the child abuse specialist. In 2016, Daniel transferred to the GBI’s Commercial Gambling Unit, where she was assigned until her recent promotion.
Daniel obtained a bachelor’s degree in justice studies from Georgia Southern University in 2001. In 2003, she received a master’s degree in public administration with an emphasis in justice administration from Columbus State University.
Daniel has been a P.O.S.T. certified instructor since 2016, providing instruction in defensive tactics, use of force, and advanced law enforcement rapid response training (ALERRT).
The GBI is comprised of three divisions: the Georgia Crime Information Center, the Crime Laboratory, and the Investigative Division. The agency has more than 820 employees and a budget of $98.8 million. ASAC Daniel is assigned to the investigative division.
Upson COVID-19 Update
Published 7-16-2020
Upson County reported 393 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 45 deaths and 49 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 13 from the 380 confirmed cases, increase of two deaths from 43, and an increase of three from the 46 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 32.
Upson’s infection rate is 149.6 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 5.0 from 144.6 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is less than half the increase of 12.2 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 120,569 cases (23,505 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 17,647) as of noon Tuesday, with 13,476 hospitalized (up 1,557/prior week’s increase was 1,095) and 3,026 deaths (up 148/prior week’s increase was 94).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 254 (120.8 per 10k) and three deaths, 27 hospitalized; Monroe with 232 (83.7 per 10k) and 19 deaths, 32 hospitalized; Lamar, 149 (77.0 per 10k) and six deaths, 16 hospitalized; Pike, 116 (61.5 per 10k) with three deaths and 13 hospitalized; Talbot, 94 (152.6 per 10k) with three deaths and 15 hospitalized; Crawford, 56 (45.8 per 10k) with no deaths and seven hospitalized; and Taylor, 36 (45.2 per 10k) with two deaths and 11 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased three from 174 to 177 during the same one-week period, with one new resident death for a total of 32, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (102 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 35 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 17 resident deaths (up one). Providence (75 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (65 residents/65 tested) has reported its first two resident cases, along with three positive cases (up one) 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 or ncov/index.html.
Upson County reported 393 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 45 deaths and 49 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 13 from the 380 confirmed cases, increase of two deaths from 43, and an increase of three from the 46 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 32.
Upson’s infection rate is 149.6 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 5.0 from 144.6 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is less than half the increase of 12.2 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 120,569 cases (23,505 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 17,647) as of noon Tuesday, with 13,476 hospitalized (up 1,557/prior week’s increase was 1,095) and 3,026 deaths (up 148/prior week’s increase was 94).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 254 (120.8 per 10k) and three deaths, 27 hospitalized; Monroe with 232 (83.7 per 10k) and 19 deaths, 32 hospitalized; Lamar, 149 (77.0 per 10k) and six deaths, 16 hospitalized; Pike, 116 (61.5 per 10k) with three deaths and 13 hospitalized; Talbot, 94 (152.6 per 10k) with three deaths and 15 hospitalized; Crawford, 56 (45.8 per 10k) with no deaths and seven hospitalized; and Taylor, 36 (45.2 per 10k) with two deaths and 11 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) increased three from 174 to 177 during the same one-week period, with one new resident death for a total of 32, according to Georgia’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Report from the Georgia Department of Community Health.
The report shows Harborview (102 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 35 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 17 resident deaths (up one). Providence (75 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (65 residents/65 tested) has reported its first two resident cases, along with three positive cases (up one) 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 or ncov/index.html.
Rolling Stones Tribute Band Slated Aug. 15
Published 7-9-2020
Jumping Jack Flash, a Rolling Stones tribute band, is scheduled to headline a downtown Thomaston concert Saturday, Aug. 15, according to Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lori Showalter Smith.
The Wildflowers, a Tom Petty tribute band, also will perform.
Tickets to the concert are $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the event. Gates open at 5 p.m. and music begins at 6 p.m. on the square. Outside drinks and coolers will be prohibited, but outside food will be allowed.
Sponsors include Richard Bishoff, Hannah’s Mill Animal Hospital, Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, Central Georgia Heating & Cooling, TenCate, Tidal Wave, Colony Bank, The Peoples Bank of Georgia, United Bank, West Central Georgia Bank, Hughston Clinic, Thomaston Family Medicine, Planet Fitness, Georgia Power, Southern Company, Upson County, Fun 101 FM, and The Upson Beacon.
Jumping Jack Flash, a Rolling Stones tribute band, is scheduled to headline a downtown Thomaston concert Saturday, Aug. 15, according to Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lori Showalter Smith.
The Wildflowers, a Tom Petty tribute band, also will perform.
Tickets to the concert are $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the event. Gates open at 5 p.m. and music begins at 6 p.m. on the square. Outside drinks and coolers will be prohibited, but outside food will be allowed.
Sponsors include Richard Bishoff, Hannah’s Mill Animal Hospital, Fletcher-Day Funeral Home, Central Georgia Heating & Cooling, TenCate, Tidal Wave, Colony Bank, The Peoples Bank of Georgia, United Bank, West Central Georgia Bank, Hughston Clinic, Thomaston Family Medicine, Planet Fitness, Georgia Power, Southern Company, Upson County, Fun 101 FM, and The Upson Beacon.
Upson COVID-19 Update
Published 7-9-2020
Upson County reported 380 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 43 deaths and 46 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 32 from the 348 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, and an increase of two from the 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 25.
Upson’s infection rate is 144.6 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 12.2 from 132.4 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is more than the increase of 9.5 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 97,064 cases (17,647 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 13,489) as of noon Tuesday, with 11,919 hospitalized (up 1,095/prior week’s increase was 871) and 2,878 deaths (up 94/prior week’s increase was 136).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 218 (103.7 per 10k) and three deaths, 25 hospitalized; Monroe with 207 (74.7 per 10k) and 18 deaths, 28 hospitalized; Lamar, 133 (68.7 per 10k) and six deaths, 15 hospitalized; Pike, 104 (55.1 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 82 (133.2 per 10k) with three deaths and 15 hospitalized; Crawford, 54 (44.2 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 38 (47.8 per 10k) with two deaths and 11 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) held steady at 174 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 (95 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 35 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (75 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (66 residents/66 tested) has reported no resident cases and only two positive cases (no increase) 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 380 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 43 deaths and 46 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 32 from the 348 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, and an increase of two from the 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The positive case increase during the previous one-week period was 25.
Upson’s infection rate is 144.6 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 12.2 from 132.4 per 10k for the previous period. The per capita increase is more than the increase of 9.5 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 97,064 cases (17,647 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 13,489) as of noon Tuesday, with 11,919 hospitalized (up 1,095/prior week’s increase was 871) and 2,878 deaths (up 94/prior week’s increase was 136).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 218 (103.7 per 10k) and three deaths, 25 hospitalized; Monroe with 207 (74.7 per 10k) and 18 deaths, 28 hospitalized; Lamar, 133 (68.7 per 10k) and six deaths, 15 hospitalized; Pike, 104 (55.1 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 82 (133.2 per 10k) with three deaths and 15 hospitalized; Crawford, 54 (44.2 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 38 (47.8 per 10k) with two deaths and 11 hospitalized.
Total number of positive cases among residents and staff at local long-term health care facilities (including Harborview, Providence and Riverside) held steady at 174 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 (95 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 35 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (75 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (66 residents/66 tested) has reported no resident cases and only two positive cases (no increase) 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.
Happy 99th Birthday
Evelynn Mitchell celebrated her 99th birthday Tuesday, June 30.
Upson COVID-19 Update
Published 7-2-2020
Upson County reported 348 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 43 deaths and 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 25 from the 323 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, and an increase of one from 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The 25-case increase is less than the increase of 28 from the previous one-week period.
Upson’s infection rate is 132.4 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 9.5 from 122.9 per 10k for the same period. The per capita increase of 9.5 per 10k is less than the increase of 10.6 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 79,417 cases (13,489 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 7,514) as of noon Tuesday, with 10,824 hospitalized (up 871/prior week’s increase was 631) and 2,784 deaths (up 136/prior week’s increase was 154).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 177 (84.2 per 10k) and two deaths, 22 hospitalized; Monroe with 156 (56.3 per 10k) and 17 deaths, 26 hospitalized; Lamar, 112 (57.9 per 10k) and six deaths, 13 hospitalized; Pike, 88 (46.7 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 69 (112 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized; Crawford, 39 (31.9 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 28 (35.2 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 one from 173 to 174 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 (95 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 35 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (71 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (65 residents/65 tested) has reported no resident cases and only two positive cases (up one from last week) 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 348 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 43 deaths and 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 25 from the 323 confirmed cases, no increase in deaths, and an increase of one from 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The 25-case increase is less than the increase of 28 from the previous one-week period.
Upson’s infection rate is 132.4 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 9.5 from 122.9 per 10k for the same period. The per capita increase of 9.5 per 10k is less than the increase of 10.6 per 10k from the previous one-week period.
Georgia jumped to 79,417 cases (13,489 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 7,514) as of noon Tuesday, with 10,824 hospitalized (up 871/prior week’s increase was 631) and 2,784 deaths (up 136/prior week’s increase was 154).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 177 (84.2 per 10k) and two deaths, 22 hospitalized; Monroe with 156 (56.3 per 10k) and 17 deaths, 26 hospitalized; Lamar, 112 (57.9 per 10k) and six deaths, 13 hospitalized; Pike, 88 (46.7 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 69 (112 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized; Crawford, 39 (31.9 per 10k) with no deaths and four hospitalized; and Taylor, 28 (35.2 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 one from 173 to 174 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 (95 residents/99 tested) with 52 resident cases (no increase), 35 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (71 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 49 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (65 residents/65 tested) has reported no resident cases and only two positive cases (up one from last week) 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 COVID-19 Update
Published 6-25-2020
Upson County reported 323 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 43 deaths and 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 28 from the 295 confirmed cases, an increase of three deaths, and a decrease of one from 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The 28-case increase is four times the increase of seven from the previous one-week period.
Upson’s infection rate is 122.9 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 10.6 from 112.3 per 10k for the same period. The per capita increase of 10.6 per 10k is more than 5.5 times the 1.9 per 10k increase from the previous one-week period.
Georgia grew to 65,928 cases (7,514 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 5,917) as of noon Tuesday, with 9,953 hospitalized (up 631/prior week’s increase was 576) and 2,648 deaths (up 154/prior week’s increase was 286).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 154 (73.3 per 10k) and two deaths, 21 hospitalized; Monroe with 137 (49.4 per 10k) and 15 deaths, 26 hospitalized; Lamar, 91 (47.0 per 10k) and six deaths, 12 hospitalized; Pike, 81 (42.9 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 62 (100.7 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized; Crawford, 36 (29.4 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 17 from 156 to 173 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 (94 residents/216 tested) with 52 resident cases (up 17), 34 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (76 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 46 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (64 residents/64 tested) has reported no resident cases and only one positive case 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 323 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 43 deaths and 43 hospitalized at noon Tuesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health website, an increase of 28 from the 295 confirmed cases, an increase of three deaths, and a decrease of one from 44 hospitalized at noon Tuesday one week earlier. The 28-case increase is four times the increase of seven from the previous one-week period.
Upson’s infection rate is 122.9 per 10,000 residents, an increase of 10.6 from 112.3 per 10k for the same period. The per capita increase of 10.6 per 10k is more than 5.5 times the 1.9 per 10k increase from the previous one-week period.
Georgia grew to 65,928 cases (7,514 increase from same time last week/prior week’s increase was 5,917) as of noon Tuesday, with 9,953 hospitalized (up 631/prior week’s increase was 576) and 2,648 deaths (up 154/prior week’s increase was 286).
Confirmed cases for counties bordering Upson were Meriwether with 154 (73.3 per 10k) and two deaths, 21 hospitalized; Monroe with 137 (49.4 per 10k) and 15 deaths, 26 hospitalized; Lamar, 91 (47.0 per 10k) and six deaths, 12 hospitalized; Pike, 81 (42.9 per 10k) with three deaths and 10 hospitalized; Talbot, 62 (100.7 per 10k) with two deaths and 14 hospitalized; Crawford, 36 (29.4 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 17 from 156 to 173 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 (94 residents/216 tested) with 52 resident cases (up 17), 34 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 16 resident deaths (no increase). Providence (76 residents/83 tested) reports 64 resident cases (no increase), 46 resident recoveries, 28 staff cases (no increase), and 15 resident deaths (no increase) from last week. Riverside (64 residents/64 tested) has reported no resident cases and only one positive case 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.
URMC Updates COVID-19 Policies
Published 6-11-2020
The latest COVID-19 updates at Upson Regional Medical Center include the following:
•Screening all who are entering the hospital - public, employees, providers, others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Screening all who are entering clinics and offices - public, employees, providers, and others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Effective June 8, all URMC physician practices will be back to full scheduling availability.
•Effective June 8, hospital visitation will be modified to allow one visitor per patient. All visitors will be screened, masked, and temperature checked upon hospital entry. Visitors will be restricted to the room of the patient they are visiting. No visitation will be allowed for COVID-19 positive patients, or patients under investigation for COVID-19.
•No visitors under age 18.
•Beginning June 15, URMC looks forward to the return of hospital volunteers. Volunteers will follow the same guidelines as employees and will be screened with temperatures checked upon entering the hospital. Volunteers will wear masks while inside the building and must adhere to distancing guidelines.
•URMC is now allowing all surgeries, including elective inpatient surgeries.
•Beginning June 15, the Wellness Center of URMC will be open for all members including senior citizens and those members with medical conditions. Current spacing restrictions and equipment/facility sanitizing procedures will be continued.
•Beginning June 15, the cardiac rehab program will reopen.
•A link is accessible on the URMC Home Page, urmc.org, which contains real time details of the latest COVID-19 mitigation details.
The latest COVID-19 updates at Upson Regional Medical Center include the following:
•Screening all who are entering the hospital - public, employees, providers, others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Screening all who are entering clinics and offices - public, employees, providers, and others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Effective June 8, all URMC physician practices will be back to full scheduling availability.
•Effective June 8, hospital visitation will be modified to allow one visitor per patient. All visitors will be screened, masked, and temperature checked upon hospital entry. Visitors will be restricted to the room of the patient they are visiting. No visitation will be allowed for COVID-19 positive patients, or patients under investigation for COVID-19.
•No visitors under age 18.
•Beginning June 15, URMC looks forward to the return of hospital volunteers. Volunteers will follow the same guidelines as employees and will be screened with temperatures checked upon entering the hospital. Volunteers will wear masks while inside the building and must adhere to distancing guidelines.
•URMC is now allowing all surgeries, including elective inpatient surgeries.
•Beginning June 15, the Wellness Center of URMC will be open for all members including senior citizens and those members with medical conditions. Current spacing restrictions and equipment/facility sanitizing procedures will be continued.
•Beginning June 15, the cardiac rehab program will reopen.
•A link is accessible on the URMC Home Page, urmc.org, which contains real time details of the latest COVID-19 mitigation details.
Peaceful Demonstration Slated June 20
Published 6-11-2020
A peaceful demonstration will be held in Thomaston Saturday, June 20 starting at 9 a.m. to show solidarity and opposition to circumstances surrounding George Floyd’s May 25 death in Minneapolis, Minn., according to area organizers.
Local business owner Trennis Dumas, who attended a planning meeting alongside Stonewell Worship Center Pastor Coleman Dumas, III and his wife Daphne, shared her thoughts regarding the purpose of the demonstration.
“The main point of the meeting was to see what needed to be done to plan a peaceful demonstration in the City of Thomaston, not to point fingers at our law enforcement, but rather to show our solidarity as members of the community that we oppose what happened in Minneapolis to George Floyd,” Trennis Dumas stated.
Members of the Thomaston Police Department, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Mayor J.D. Stallings, some members of city council and about 15 concerned citizens attended the meeting, she said.
The demonstration will begin at Matthews Field and participants will march to the courthouse in downtown Thomaston.
“There will be a short program to express concerns, fears and sincere desire to do a better job to work together to avoid having situations like the growing accounts of police brutality against African American males coming to our community,” Dumas concluded.
A peaceful demonstration will be held in Thomaston Saturday, June 20 starting at 9 a.m. to show solidarity and opposition to circumstances surrounding George Floyd’s May 25 death in Minneapolis, Minn., according to area organizers.
Local business owner Trennis Dumas, who attended a planning meeting alongside Stonewell Worship Center Pastor Coleman Dumas, III and his wife Daphne, shared her thoughts regarding the purpose of the demonstration.
“The main point of the meeting was to see what needed to be done to plan a peaceful demonstration in the City of Thomaston, not to point fingers at our law enforcement, but rather to show our solidarity as members of the community that we oppose what happened in Minneapolis to George Floyd,” Trennis Dumas stated.
Members of the Thomaston Police Department, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Mayor J.D. Stallings, some members of city council and about 15 concerned citizens attended the meeting, she said.
The demonstration will begin at Matthews Field and participants will march to the courthouse in downtown Thomaston.
“There will be a short program to express concerns, fears and sincere desire to do a better job to work together to avoid having situations like the growing accounts of police brutality against African American males coming to our community,” Dumas concluded.
Upson Census Participation Creeps Higher
Published 6-11-2020
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 60.4 percent as of June 7, just behind the national average of 60.7 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 56.9 percent rate, which ranks 35th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state. Tract 103 (in the western third of the county from Molena to south of Adam’s Ferry Road, as far east as Hightower Lake/Basin Creek) leads the county with a 64.1 percent response rate.
In the municipality listing on the census website, there are 539 towns and cities in Georgia. Thomaston ranks 83rd with a 58.9 percent response rate, and Yatesville 325th at 44.4 percent.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 62.3 percent, Lamar at 60.7, Monroe at 57.8, Meriwether at 52.9, Crawford at 49.5, Taylor at 33.8 and Talbot at 32.7 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 60.4 percent as of June 7, just behind the national average of 60.7 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 56.9 percent rate, which ranks 35th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state. Tract 103 (in the western third of the county from Molena to south of Adam’s Ferry Road, as far east as Hightower Lake/Basin Creek) leads the county with a 64.1 percent response rate.
In the municipality listing on the census website, there are 539 towns and cities in Georgia. Thomaston ranks 83rd with a 58.9 percent response rate, and Yatesville 325th at 44.4 percent.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 62.3 percent, Lamar at 60.7, Monroe at 57.8, Meriwether at 52.9, Crawford at 49.5, Taylor at 33.8 and Talbot at 32.7 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson Census Participation Passes 60%
Published 6-4-2020
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 60.2 percent as of May 31, just behind the national average of 60.5 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 56.6 percent rate, which ranks 34th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 61.9 percent, Lamar at 60.4, Monroe at 57.4, Meriwether at 52.7, Crawford at 49.3, Taylor at 33.5 and Talbot at 32.5 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 60.2 percent as of May 31, just behind the national average of 60.5 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 56.6 percent rate, which ranks 34th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 61.9 percent, Lamar at 60.4, Monroe at 57.4, Meriwether at 52.7, Crawford at 49.3, Taylor at 33.5 and Talbot at 32.5 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson’s Census Participation up Slightly to 59.8%
Published 5-28-2020
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 59.8 percent as of May 24, just behind the national average of 60 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 56.2 percent rate, which ranks 35th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 61.5 percent, Lamar at 59.9, Monroe at 56.9, Meriwether at 52.3, Crawford at 48.8, Taylor at 33.2 and Talbot at 32.2 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 59.8 percent as of May 24, just behind the national average of 60 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 56.2 percent rate, which ranks 35th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 61.5 percent, Lamar at 59.9, Monroe at 56.9, Meriwether at 52.3, Crawford at 48.8, Taylor at 33.2 and Talbot at 32.2 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
URMC Announces Implementation of Updated Coronavirus Plan
Published 5-21-2020
Upson Regional Medical Center has released an updated status report on the facility’s COVID-19 plan preparations and implementation as of Monday, May 18.
Hospital procedure will include the following:
•Maintaining distance from each other - at least six feet apart at all times.
•Wearing isolation masks when in public and make sure it covers the mouth and nose.
•Appropriately covering coughs and sneezes.
•Washing hands frequently, using sanitizer foams or gels when unable to wash.
•Eliminating any group gatherings.
•Staying at home unless it is essential to go out.
•Public access into the hospital will be the main entrance from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays only and emergency department 24/7.
•All minors may have one visitor for the duration of their stay or visit.
•Patients having outpatient surgery may have one visitor to assist with arrival and registration, and the visitor may stay in ambulatory surgery room to wait for patient.
•No visitors under age 18.
•Labor and delivery patients can have one visitor throughout the patient’s stay.
•Patients at the end of life receiving hospice care may have one visitor in the room.
•Strategically allowing elective surgical cases.
•Screening all who are entering the hospital - public, employees, providers, others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Screening all who are entering our clinics and offices - public, employees, providers, and others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Eliminating gatherings of large employee or community groups within any area of the organization.
•Posting a link accessible on our URMC home page that contains real time details of our latest COVID-19 mitigation details.
•Changes in cleaning schedules.
•Changes in how the café functions from a public and staff dining perspective.
•Daily COVID-19 operational call to assess the situation, prioritize needs, and establish direction for the next 24 hours.
Upson Regional Medical Center has released an updated status report on the facility’s COVID-19 plan preparations and implementation as of Monday, May 18.
Hospital procedure will include the following:
•Maintaining distance from each other - at least six feet apart at all times.
•Wearing isolation masks when in public and make sure it covers the mouth and nose.
•Appropriately covering coughs and sneezes.
•Washing hands frequently, using sanitizer foams or gels when unable to wash.
•Eliminating any group gatherings.
•Staying at home unless it is essential to go out.
•Public access into the hospital will be the main entrance from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays only and emergency department 24/7.
•All minors may have one visitor for the duration of their stay or visit.
•Patients having outpatient surgery may have one visitor to assist with arrival and registration, and the visitor may stay in ambulatory surgery room to wait for patient.
•No visitors under age 18.
•Labor and delivery patients can have one visitor throughout the patient’s stay.
•Patients at the end of life receiving hospice care may have one visitor in the room.
•Strategically allowing elective surgical cases.
•Screening all who are entering the hospital - public, employees, providers, others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Screening all who are entering our clinics and offices - public, employees, providers, and others - for exposure history, symptoms, and temperature.
•Eliminating gatherings of large employee or community groups within any area of the organization.
•Posting a link accessible on our URMC home page that contains real time details of our latest COVID-19 mitigation details.
•Changes in cleaning schedules.
•Changes in how the café functions from a public and staff dining perspective.
•Daily COVID-19 operational call to assess the situation, prioritize needs, and establish direction for the next 24 hours.
Upson’s Census Participation in State’s Top 16%
Published 5-21-2020
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 59.4 percent as of May 17, just behind the national average of 59.6 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 55.7 percent rate, which ranks 35th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 60.9 percent, Lamar at 59.5, Monroe at 56.3, Meriwether at 51.9, Crawford at 48.3, Taylor at 32.6 and Talbot at 31.7 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 59.4 percent as of May 17, just behind the national average of 59.6 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 55.7 percent rate, which ranks 35th among all states.
Upson ranks 24th among 159 Georgia counties, placing it inside the top 16 percent of the state.
Participation levels of other nearby counties are Pike at 60.9 percent, Lamar at 59.5, Monroe at 56.3, Meriwether at 51.9, Crawford at 48.3, Taylor at 32.6 and Talbot at 31.7 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Woodard Awarded ROTC Scholarship
Publsihed 5-14-2020
Upson Lee NJROTC Battalion Commander Brittney Woodard was awarded the Presidential Preparatory Navy ROTC Scholarship at Tuskegee University in Alabama. The scholarship provides full tuition, fees, room and board for one year as a midshipman candidate.
Upon successful completion of her first year, she will be awarded an additional four-year, fully funded Navy ROTC national scholarship. The total value of her scholarship exceeds $200,000.
Brittney plans to major in chemistry and become a surface warfare officer upon graduation.
Upson Lee NJROTC Battalion Commander Brittney Woodard was awarded the Presidential Preparatory Navy ROTC Scholarship at Tuskegee University in Alabama. The scholarship provides full tuition, fees, room and board for one year as a midshipman candidate.
Upon successful completion of her first year, she will be awarded an additional four-year, fully funded Navy ROTC national scholarship. The total value of her scholarship exceeds $200,000.
Brittney plans to major in chemistry and become a surface warfare officer upon graduation.
Lilly Jane Jewels Raises More Than $2,000 for Tornado Relief
Kaylee Neighbors is seen with Jason Weeks, pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church.
Published 5-14-2020
While searching for a way to support her community during a time of chaos and uncertainty, Kaylee Neighbors, owner of Lilly Jane Jewels, decided to have T-shirts made. Proceeds from the T-shirt drive were donated to the Upson Ministerial Association to support locals who were affected by the recent tornado. “People from North Georgia all the way to Arizona contributed to help our community,” commented Neighbors.
More than $2,000 was raised toward the Tornado Relief Fund. Shirts were printed at Kota Kolors Screenprinting & Gifts in Thomaston.
While searching for a way to support her community during a time of chaos and uncertainty, Kaylee Neighbors, owner of Lilly Jane Jewels, decided to have T-shirts made. Proceeds from the T-shirt drive were donated to the Upson Ministerial Association to support locals who were affected by the recent tornado. “People from North Georgia all the way to Arizona contributed to help our community,” commented Neighbors.
More than $2,000 was raised toward the Tornado Relief Fund. Shirts were printed at Kota Kolors Screenprinting & Gifts in Thomaston.
Upson Census Participation Exceeds 58%
Published 5-14-2020
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 58.2 percent as of May 10, just behind the national average of 58.6 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 54.7 percent rate, which ranks 34th among all states.
Upson is tied for 23rd with Lamar among Georgia’s 159 reporting counties, topped in the area by Henry County ranked 10th with 62.5 percent and Pike County at 20th with 59.8 percent. Spalding County is 29th with 57.5 percent, Monroe 39th with 55.1 percent, Meriwether 64th with 50.8 percent, and Crawford 83rd with 47.3 percent.
Taylor and Talbot Counties are 145th and 146 respectively, with 31.5 and 30.9 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.
Upson County’s participation in the 2020 U.S. Census has increased to 58.2 percent as of May 10, just behind the national average of 58.6 percent, according to local census officials. Upson remains ahead of Georgia’s 54.7 percent rate, which ranks 34th among all states.
Upson is tied for 23rd with Lamar among Georgia’s 159 reporting counties, topped in the area by Henry County ranked 10th with 62.5 percent and Pike County at 20th with 59.8 percent. Spalding County is 29th with 57.5 percent, Monroe 39th with 55.1 percent, Meriwether 64th with 50.8 percent, and Crawford 83rd with 47.3 percent.
Taylor and Talbot Counties are 145th and 146 respectively, with 31.5 and 30.9 percent.
Census takers currently are scheduled to begin door-to-door visits Aug. 11 for those homes which have not responded. The process can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and impacts funding decisions for resident services for a 10-year period. Legislative districts also are determined by census results.