ZEBULON - There will be an election on February 9 for District Attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit which is composed of Spalding, Fayette, Upson, and Pike Counties. There are two candidates to choose from. Pike County Times will prepare a Voter Information Page as soon as it has received information from both candidates, but website information is listed until then.

Pike County Residents: Early voting will begin on Tuesday, January 19 and go through the 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and continue January 25-29 and February 1-5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Those in other counties should contact your Voter Registrar to obtain early voting locations and hours.) There will probably not be a Saturday voting day. Election Day will be Tuesday, February 9 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Marie Broder is currently serving as District Attorney and is the Incumbent. She is running on the Republican ticket. She was appointed to this position in March of 2020 to fill the vacancy left when the former District Attorney Ben Coker was sworn in as Superior Court Judge for the Griffin Judicial Circuit. Find out more at Click here for more information.

Reverend Dexter Wimbush is running on the Democratic Ticket. His website cites that he is "private attorney practicing criminal and civil litigation while serving a community advocate." Find out more at Click here for more information.

[Note from the Editor: This post will remain at the top of the page until after the election.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, January 26, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - Pike County senior cheerleader Reese McNair was awarded the Elpis Athlete Award during halftime of the basketball game on January 19th. Click here for more.

Mr. Gordon Arnold Sheriff, age 70, of Zebulon, passed away January 23, 2021, at Upson Regional Medical Center. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

THOMASTON - Thomaston Police Department is currently investigating a Homicide that occurred at the Wellington Place Apartments, in Thomaston, Georgia. During a home invasion on the evening of December 1st, 2020, two men entered a residence on Wellington Dr. to commit a robbery at which time they shot and killed the victim, Michael Gates. Click here for more.

THOMASTON - Pike County Times has been contacted by readers with both complaints and praise for local hospitals during this time of COVID-19. Pike County Times reached out to both Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) and Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital to inquire about their visitation policies. This is the interview from Upson Regional Hospital that was conducted last week with Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Lane Harrington. Click here for more.

Jackie K. Cooper's Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. Jackie also has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com along with reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows and columns on life and living in the South.

ATLANTA – State Representative Beth Camp (R-Concord) was sworn into office as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives on Monday, January 11, 2021, which was the first day of the 2021-2022 legislative term. In addition to being officially sworn in, the Georgia House of Representatives’ Committee on Assignments named Rep. Camp to the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications and State Planning & Community Affairs committees. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Old Zebulon Road just south of New Road was closed for several days to allow for a replacement of a big culvert pipe. The culvert replacement is complete, and the road is back open.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times has been covering internet and broadband initiatives in Pike County. Yesterday, a new possible outlet for internet was pointed out to Pike County Times online. Here is the result of a quick couple of emails to Erin Cook, Director of Marketing/Member Services Southern Rivers EMC:

"Southern Rivers Energy has been working on a plan to build a fiber network with a partner that will provide reliable, affordable high-speed internet to all of our members. We are still in discussions but have signed a non-disclosure agreement so we cannot share any other details at this time. We hope to be in a position to share more about the plan as well as a timeline, sometime after the first quarter."

Many thanks to Southern Rivers for being open with this. Pike County Times will provide more information as it becomes available since it is working from old DSL lines like so many other customers throughout the county.

ZEBULON - On Monday, January 11, 2021, newly elected members of the Georgia General Assembly from across the state gathered at the State Capitol for the first day of the 156th Legislative Session. Click here for more.

Karen Ann Donato Coker, age 67, of Thomaston, passed away January 16, 2021, at Upson Regional Medical Center. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - We are accepting nominations for the "Saints in Light Award" and "Prayer Power Faith Award / Scholarship" for the 2021 year. Click here for more.

Mr. Myron Scott Lackey, age 57, of Warner Robins, passed away January 17, 2021, at his home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - Zebulon Police Department made the following arrests:
1. Fisher, Timothy 21 year old black male from Knoxville for Speeding, and driving with out a License.
2. Harrison, Cody 29 year old white male from Brooks for Speeding, driving with out license, Reckless driving, fleeing, improper lane change, and no insurance.
3. Pollard, Billy 40 year old white male from Molena for suspended registration, and suspended license.
4. Foster, Inman 29 year old black male from Thomaston for child safety belt, and suspended license.
5. Jones, Eric 19 year old white male from Thomaston for poss. of seclude 4 drugs, drugs kept in original container, dui refusal, and failure to maintain lane.
6. Wright, Wesley 35 year old from Zebulon for VOP, and headlight requirements.
7. Farlow, Justin 41 year old white male from Zebulon for VOP Zebulon.
8. Fuller, Newton 50 year old white male from Griffin for VOP Henry County.

ZEBULON - Please be advised that Pike County offices will be closed on Monday, January 18, 2021 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Offices will reopen for regular business hours on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

ZEBULON - Pike County Parks & Recreation will hold its regular monthly meeting on January 19, 2021 at 6:00 pm at Pike County Parks & Recreation Complex in Baseball Press Box. The call to order will be given by Chairman Chris Childress. The following items will be on the agenda: Approval of the Agenda, Approval of the minutes for the November 17, 2020 regular monthly meeting, Treasurer Report and Director’s Report from Kevin Teate, Sports/Programs Report, Review and Approve/Deny the Inter-governmental Agreement between PCPRA and Pike County Board of Commissioners regarding Pike County BOC Financial Support of the Soccer Complex Improvements Phase 1a, Root Design Studio Revised Proposal for Soccer Complex Improvements Phase 1a – Construction Documents and Administration, Approve/Deny United Bank’s Construction Loan Terms for Soccer Complex Improvements Phase 1a, Report on the new revised Impact Fee percentages, CBIZ appraisal of PCPRA Complex, and Other Business.

ATLANTA January 13, Sen. Marty Harbin (R - Tyrone) was appointed to serve as Chairman of the Senate Government Oversight Committee. Click here for more.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has begun a new nationwide public awareness campaign, “Be Your REAL ID Self” to promote awareness of the REAL ID requirements and encourage the public to act before the October 1, 2021 full enforcement deadline. Be Your REAL ID Self. Just over 8 months remain until the October 1, 2021 REAL ID full enforcement deadline goes into effect at all federally regulated airports, federal facilities, and nuclear power plants. Click here for more.

Jackie K. Cooper's Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here along with reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows and columns on life and living in the South.

Ms. Nancy Marie Calvert Gordy, age 52, of Thomaston, passed away January 14, 2021, at home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - There will be an American Red Cross Blood Drive at Georgia Farm Bureau on Monday, February 1, 2021 from 2 - 7 p.m. Georgia Farm Bureau is located at 7664 US-19 North, Zebulon, GA 30295. Click here to sign up

ZEBULON - The Pike County MLK. Jr Day committee cordially invites everyone to the annual MLK parade celebration on January 18, 2021. Due to COVID-19 there will not be a program following the parade.

The theme for the celebration is “Good Trouble is our New Beginning”. The grand marshal is Zebulon City Councilman Mr. Claude Hollis. The parade will consist of vehicles only; no walkers will be allowed because of the pandemic and no decorating supplies will be available this year. Everyone is encouraged to participate as we continue to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Line up starts at 9:30AM and the parade will leave the Fullers Chapel United Methodist Church parking lot at 10:00AM. For additional information please contact Regina Bridges at 678-588-4058, Patricia Beckham at 770-468-4937, Edward Alexander 770-567-8991 or Veronica Evans at 770-567-3225.

Mrs. Elaine Hawkins Boyd, age 82, of Thomaston, passed away January 12, 2021, at her residence. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

CARROLLTON – On Wednesday, December 16, 2020, the GBI West Metro Regional Drug Enforcement Office, along with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office, and the Clayton County Police Department, executed a series of search warrants. Click here for more.

Mr. Harold Oscar Jennings, age 93, of Zebulon, passed away January 11, 2021, at his home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

WASHINGTON DC - As a sign of respect for the service and sacrifice of United States Capitol Police Officers Brian D. Sicknick and Howard Liebengood, and all Capitol Police Officers and law enforcement across this great Nation, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, January 13, 2021. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fifth.
DONALD J. TRUMP

Mr. James Edward "Jimmy" Hopkins, age 74, of Zebulon, passed away January 9, 2021, at Upson Regional Medical Center. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

MOLENA - Introducing the first sponsor of Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! Click here for more. Please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! at www.firstbankofpike.com/. Tell them Pike County Times sent you!

GRIFFIN - Thank you to Food Depot for advertising with Pike County Times! There are two convenient locations at 1201 West Taylor Street and 816 North Hill Street. Click here for more great deals from Food Depot. Please tell them that you read about this and other deals on Pike County Times!

GRIFFIN - District Attorney Marie Greene Broder is proud to announce her candidacy for election as District Attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit in a special election on February 9, 2021. Appointed in March of 2020 to fill the vacancy left when the former District Attorney was sworn in as Superior Court Judge, Broder is recognized as a fierce advocate for justice. Click here for more.

BARNESVILLE – After consultation and approval from the University System of Georgia (USG), Gordon State College will adjust the start of spring semester classes to Monday, January 25, 2021. Click here for more.

Mrs. Gayle Evelyn Mittelsteadt Burkett, age 74, of Concord, passed away January 5, 2021. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Jackie K. Cooper's Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. Jackie also has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com along with reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows and columns on life and living in the South.

ZEBULON - SJ Land Surveying specializes in land surveying, planning, and subdivision design. Thank you to SJ Reeves Land Surveying for helping provide your news for free on Pike County Times!

Call Steve J. Reeves RLS at 770-584-5203 or email him at sjreevessurveying@gmail.com and tell him that you saw his ad on Pike County Times!

ZEBULON - Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the Tax Commissioner being quarantined, the Tax Commissioner's Office will be closed tomorrow and Friday for cleaning and will be open only limited hours next week.

The week of January 11, the Tax Commissioner's Office will only be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wayne H. Brown, 74, of Griffin, GA, passed away on January 5, 2021. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - These are the complete and unofficial results from the January 5, 2021 Election with all precincts reporting. 9,628 of 13,991 registered voters made their voices heard in this election for a 68.82% turnout. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - Judge Chris Edwards signed an order for a Limited Declaration of Judicial Emergency and Emergency Order on Extension of Deadlines and Other Time Schedules concerning Pike County Magistrate Court on January 4, 2021. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - Yesterday morning, a Pike Countryside Sanitation trash truck was involved in an accident on Highway 19 near Hugh Frank Drive (past Pike Plaza). The vehicle was northbound and rolled several times. The driver, Quinton Booker, was transported by air ambulance to Atlanta Medical Center. The cause of the accident is under investigation.

GRIFFIN – On Tuesday, January 5, 2021, the GBI arrested Gregory Ryan Edge, 41, of Williamson, GA, for six counts of felony theft by deception. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Georgia Military College Zebulon Campus will be holding an American Red Cross Blood Drive from 12 to 4 p.m. on January 7, 2021. GMC is located at 7818 Highway 19 South in Zebulon, GA 30295. Appointments are needed. Schedule online or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

ATLANTA - Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has taken action to crack down on political organizations and advocacy groups that use “line warming” as a loophole to conduct political activity in violation of state law. Secretary Raffensperger sent out an Official Elections Bulletin (OEB) reminding county elections officials to enforce the buffer zone outside of polling locations and near voters in line to cast their ballot in order to ensure voters can cast their ballots without political interference or harassment. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Spalding County Election Supervisor Marcia Ridley on Saturday received an email threatening acts of violence against the Elections Office and local polling sites. Click here for more.

Mrs. Evelyn Jeanette Johnson Sanders, age 76, of Zebulon, passed away December 31, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - Georgia Military College Zebulon Campus will be holding an American Red Cross Blood Drive from 12 to 4 p.m. on January 7, 2021. GMC is located at 7818 Highway 19 South in Zebulon, GA 30295. Appointments are needed. Schedule online (30295) or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The City of Zebulon Police Department has made the following arrests:
1. Mason Montgomery, 18 year old white male from Butler, for DUI refusal and Open container.
2. Mitchell Miller, 30 year old white male from Jackson, for Hands free, Suspended license, Possession of Meth, and Drug related object.
3. Jykobie Brown, 20 year old black male from Americus, for Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of a firearm during crime.
4. Quendariour Hightower, 18 year old black male from Americus, for Headlight requirement, No license, Possession of marijuana, and Possession of firearm.

ZEBULON - Thank you to Jewelry Box Full of Bling for supporting hometown news. Jessie Holton is a local Independent Paparazzi Consultant, CJD #369326. $5 and $25 lead and nickle free jewelry is available in her stock inventory on her website!

Check out Jewelry Box Full of Bling by clicking here. Please tell Jessie that you read about her site on Pike County Times!

ZEBULON - Pike County Family Connection will meet via Zoom on Thursday, January 7, 2021 from 9 AM - 10:00 AM. A link will be made available late Wednesday. Read more about it by clicking here.

ZEBULON - Make a resolution. Reach out to others. Do something nice for someone--and don't tell them who did it!

Are you ready to leave the past behind and start again?

We have a new slate. What are you going to do with it?

ZEBULON - Please be advised that Pike County offices will be closed on Friday, January 1, 2021 in observance of New Year’s Day. Offices will reopen for regular business hours on Monday, January 4, 2021.

GRIFFIN - Pike County Times has attempted to follow up with the Secretary of State's (SOS) Office on the Spalding County case regarding ballot envelopes and voter information in the trash but has had no luck. Click here for more.

John Alfred (Al) Hudson, Jr., 64, of Yatesville, GA, passed away December 29, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Mr. Kevin Thomas (Lee) Botsford, age 56, of Zebulon, passed away December 15, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

CONCORD - Concord Road opened back up today. It had been closed since March 5th for repairs. Click here to find out why it took longer than expected.

Pike County Christian Ministerial Association will be holding Prayer Times at the Pike County Schools. The prayer events will be open to anyone who wants to join us in prayer. This coming Monday, January 4, 2021 at 8:00 am, we will have our Prayer at School in front of the Pike County High School.

From an earlier article: "The Prayer Time is not a school function, but a PCCMA community function, and we do not want to interfere with any traffic or school functions," Eberle said. "It is vital to attend, promoting unity in our community, and blanketing our schools, students, and staff with God's divine power. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us at pccma2017@gmail.com."

ZEBULON - Inmate Adrian Oliver escaped from the Pike County Jail this afternoon. Inmate Oliver was in jail for theft by receiving stolen property. Click here for more.

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” - Luke 2:8-14

Jackie K. Cooper's Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. Jackie also has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com along with reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows and columns on life and living in the South.

Mr. Jimmie Jefferson (JJ) Garrett, age 86, of Griffin, passed away December 23, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Jackie K. Cooper's Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. Jackie also has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com along with reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows and columns on life and living in the South.

ZEBULON - Public Works will not be starting work on Old Meansville Road until next week due to the death of a co-worker. (Wayne Gibson worked for Public Works.) [Note from the Editor: Please keep the family of Wayne Gibson and his co-workers at Pike County Public Works in your prayers.]

ZEBULON - The City of Zebulon Police Department as made the following arrests:
1. Riggins, Tiera 28 year old black female from Austell for DUI, and speeding.
2. Tucker, Robert 41 tear old black male from Griffin for Suspended license, and wanted from city of Morrow.
3. Hogan, Leroy 69 year old white male from Zebulon for DUI, and speeding.
4. Culverhouse, Daniel 35 year old white male from Zebulon for Violation of Probation.

Mr. Keith Eugene Andrews, age 62, of Milner, passed away December 20, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Mr. James Wayne Gibson, Sr., age 63, of Meansville, passed away December 19, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Chief Petty Officer USN (Ret.) James Richard “Jim” Boswell, age 85, of Zebulon, passed away December 21, 2020, at his home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - This is a list of the Board of Commissioners Meetings. Morning meetings begin at 9 a.m. and evening meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. Town Hall meetings are held 15 minutes prior to each regular meeting.

Click here for more.

ATLANTA – Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is condemning the firing of poll managers and whistle blowers Suzi Voyles and Bridget Thorne by Fulton County elections officials and is calling on Fulton County to rehire them to work future elections. Voyles and Thorne raised concerns about the execution of the November elections. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Zebulon Downtown Development is announcing the inaugural Downtown Holiday Craft Sale. The show will be in the newly-renovated lower showroom of the 1828 Coffee Company in downtown Zebulon on Saturday. Click here for more info.

ZEBULON - 1,835 voted early in Pike County this week in the January 5 election. Early voting will be at the Pike County Registrar's Office from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will continue on Monday the 21 and go through Wednesday the 23, and the final week of early voting in person will begin on Monday the 28 and run through Thursday the 31. No Saturday vote day. No voting on Monday, January 4. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the January 5. Get educated and make your voice heard at the ballot box.

Mr. William Levie (W. L.) Collins, Jr., age 80, of Griffin, passed away December 18, 2020, at his home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - Notice is hereby given that a Special Election shall be held in Fayette, Pike, Spalding, and Upson Counties on February 9, 2021 to fill the office of District Attorney, Griffin Judicial Circuit, due to the appointment of The Honorable Ben Coker to the Superior Court of the Griffin Judicial Circuit. A run-off, if needed, shall be held on March 9, 2021. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - James Fowler first came to work for the Little White House in Warm Springs in 1982. He lived on the grounds and spent the summer as a tour guide. For a history teacher, this was a dream job come true! He left to begin a teaching career at East Coweta High School in October of 1982, but he hoped to return to the Little White House at a later time. That return began a career of its own! Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Please be advised that Pike County offices will be closed on December 24 - 25, 2020 in observance of Christmas. Offices will reopen for regular business hours on Monday, December 28, 2020.

Mr. James Willard Godwin, Jr., age 49, formerly of Jackson, passed away December 14, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - The county has scheduled the culvert replacement on Old Meansville Road south of Whitfield Walk to begin Monday December 21, 2020. It is expected to be reopened late on Wednesday December 23, 2020. They are in the process of getting adequate signage installed warning motorists of the closure. Hopefully the weather will be cooperative so this can be finished as quickly as possible.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 5343 Hwy 19 at 9:05 p.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2020. Upon the arrival of fire department personnel, the duplex was fully involved, and there was a report of a person trapped inside. [Note from the Editor added 12.17.20: Pike County Times was contacted by multiple sources about an "explosion" that occurred in this fire. I contacted the entity from which that press release was issued as well as the Fire Chief here in Pike County who explained what happened on the scene of the fire. The following paragraphs explain in detail exactly what happened. (FYI If a propane tank had exploded, any volunteers in close proximity to it would likely have ended up in the hospital.) That being said, our volunteer firefighters and the fire auxilliary never hear thank you enough for the job they do for free here in our county. To all who came out to fight this fire and attempt to save the victim as well as those who have gone on countless fires over the years, THANK YOU.] Click here for more.

Mr. Ward Yearwood, age 90, of Concord, passed away December 16, 2020, at his home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

CONCORD - City of Concord invites you to the annual Lighting of Concord on Friday, December 4. Festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. Gather around crackling fireboxes with friends old and new, enjoy pony rides for the children or eat tasty food offered by Pike County High School Pirate Regiment (marching band). And sing along with live entertainment! Click here to see pictures.

ZEBULON - The family of Joanna Silver presented Station 8 on Gresham Road with a check from the "Joanna Silver Memorial Fund" on Saturday, December 5, 2020. Friends and family of Joanna donated in her honor in lieu of flowers earlier this year. Click here for more info.

ZEBULON -The Pike County Parks & Recreation Authority Board meeting scheduled for December 15th has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

ATLANTA - Members of the Georgia Senate have been flooded with calls about the past election. There was a hearing at 10 a.m. with the Senate Government Oversight Committee and a 1 p.m. meeting with a Subcommittee of the Senate Judiciary. The Senate Government Oversight Committee met to “evaluate the election process to ensure the integrity of Georgia’s voting process.” A subcommittee of the Senate Judiciary met to “take testimony of elections improprieties and to evaluate the election process to ensure the integrity of Georgia’s voting system.” Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The J. Joel Edwards Public Library will be hosting a series of Winter programming throughout the month of December for patrons of all ages. Each program is free, open to the public, and guaranteed to be a good time for all participants. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at 9 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, November 19, 2020 – 6:30 p.m. (Meeting date changed from November 24, 2020 to November 19, 2020) at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. [Note from the Editor: The solar farm was approved with stipulations that included additional setbacks and a 5 year 3rd party review of decommission bond. I have not finished up on this meeting yet. It was 2 hours long.] Click here for more.

ZEBULON - These are the results from election here in Pike County. This final report shows a total of 10,753 ballots cast. 2,662 were cast on election day, 6,616 were cast by those voting advanced in person, and 1,475 ballots were cast by absentee ballot. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - These are the minutes from the October 30, 2020 meeting concerning the 2020 Tax Levy for both the county and school system. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - These are the minutes from the November 5, 2020 meeting to approve the issuance of Alcohol License without having a designated agent to Saifullah Bhamani d/b/a The Rock Store. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - There will be an Executive Session of the Pike County Board of Commissioners on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 4 p.m. There is only one item on the agenda which reads as follows: County Manager requests Executive Session for consultation with the county attorney, or other legal counsel, to discuss pending or potential litigation, settlement, claims, administrative proceedings, or other judicial actions brought or to be brought by or against the county or any officer or employee or in which the county or any officer or employee may be directly involved as provided in O.C.G.A. § 50-14-2(1); germane to Alcohol Licensing.

ZEBULON - Whenever Pike County Times begins to write on a topic, the first question that is normally addressed is, “Where did this begin?” For Pike County Times, the beginning of the Madden Solar Project was in early 2017 when there were public hearings and the approval of the first property. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - The lack of internet throughout the county is an issue that is regularly discussed on social media and can even be a deciding factor for someone moving into Pike County. Options have been few and far between over the years with some options of late, but there is a new outlook on internet access that brings a second look to a necessity that many in the big city take for granted… until they move to a location where there is no internet access or that access is less than stellar. Something exciting is happening in Pike County that has been tried before but never made it to the level that might be possible now. Broadband internet may be coming to a city near you! Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - Pike County Times attended the Industrial Development Authority meeting by telephone on October 7, 2020 at 8 a.m. Those present included... Phone: Becky Watts, Dr. Duncan, Kevin Brown-Attorney (Bond Counsel), and Amanda Fields-Project Manager. In person: John Edwards, Sonny Gwyn, Ginny Blakeney, Briar Johnson, Chairman Bryan Oglesby, David Nix, John Barker, Dee McLeRoy, Executive Director Ginny Blakeney, County Manager Brandon Rogers, and Treasurer Stewart Esary. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2020 – 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - There will be a Board of Commissioners Special Called Meeting on Friday, October 30, 2020 at 9 a.m. in the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, located at 16001 Barnesville Street, Zebulon, Georgia. *We encourage that attendees follow recommended Covid-19 guidelines which include staying home if you are ill/not feeling well, washing your hands, maintaining social distancing, and wearing a face covering (recommended but not required)*
1. CALL TO ORDER - Chairman Briar Johnson
2. INVOCATION - Silent Invocation
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE -. Chairman Briar Johnson
4. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA - (O.C.G A. 50-14-1 (e) (1))
5. NEW BUSINESS
a. Consider Resolution to adopt Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Pike County Tax Levy.
b. Consider authorization for the Chairman to sign the Resolution to adopt the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Pike County Tax Levy.
6. ADJOURNMENT
Agenda subject to revision.

ZEBULON - Yesterday, Fire Chief Rick O’Barr sent out a message to members of the Pike County Fire Department over their 911 texting app at 12:23 p.m. The message was then posted on social media around 5 p.m. by a "friend of a firefighter" where a number of people from the community chimed in with questions and complaints. Pike County Times decided to ask some questions to find out exactly what was going on. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This article was updated at 6:30 p.m. tonight.]

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - These are notes from the October 15, 2020 Board of Appeals meeting submitted by new Guest Columnist Cassandra Hettermann. Pike County Times cannot be everywhere so this is a way to help the community know what is going on prior to the Board of Commissioners meetings. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 5 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Although current conditions have prevented in-house group gatherings, the library continues to provide regular programs for its patrons. All story programs are virtual and can be viewed on the library’s Facebook page. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times was contacted on Wednesday by concerned citizens when solar powered cameras began cropping up along roadways throughout the county. A few phone calls, emails, and an in-person interview with Major David Neal of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office solved the mystery of these cameras. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. You may join the meeting electronically via ZOOM Meeting ID: 646 718 0067 Password: 6nve0c Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Called Meeting on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. at the Board of Commissioners Office Conference Room, 331 Thomaston Street, Zebulon, Georgia. The public is invited to attend this meeting. You may join the meeting electronically via ZOOM. Meeting ID: 995 9302 7476. Password: 6nve0c
Commissioners will consider use of the courthouse grounds from Holly Ortiz of the Pike County Republican Party on Sunday, September 27 from 2-5 p.m. for Republican Trump Rally/Meet and Greet for Candidates. Agenda subject to revision. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - A groundbreaking ceremony was held on September 11, 2020 to celebrate the providing of the utilities and the construction management of the new Veterans Administration (VA) Clinic in Zebulon. The property is located just north of Freshway and is projected to be wrapped up by September of 2021. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Although current conditions have prevented in-house group gatherings, the library continues to provide regular programs for its patrons. All story programs are virtual and can be viewed on the library’s Facebook page. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, September 10, 2020 – 4:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 – 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 – 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: Some of the items on this agenda include representatives from Ameripro EMS and Veterans Medical Transport, discussion of the ambulance contract, opening sealed bids for auditing services for the county, a public hearing for the proposed condo for 55 and up on Hwy 19, and more. This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - Pike County Times became acquainted with Clayton Kuhles from MIA Recoveries, Inc. because of his work to bring home the airmen from the "Hot as Hell" crash that brought WWII Bombardier 1st Lt. Robert "Eugene" Oxford home to Concord in 2017. Kuhles discovered the crash site in 2006 in a remote part of India and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) brought home remains from 1st Lt. Oxford. You can read more about his long journey home to Concord in 2017 by clicking here.

Pike County Times reported that the DPAA awarded a high bidder with a contract for Northeastern India Recovery Work in 2017. The solicitation was specifically to follow up on recovery of remains of WWII service members from sites in Northeast India where Kuhles had a lot of experience in recovery and a bid that was $428,000 less than the company who was awarded the contract. Kuhles placed a complaint with the Naval Inspector General, and Pike County Times placed a FOIA for information pertaining to this contract.

Pike County Times received an emailed letter from the Department of Defense FOIA Division advising that it regretted the delay in completing the request and asking if Pike County Times would still like to receive the information that has been requested along with its current caseload of 3,486 requests on August 28, 2020. (This request was one of 2,961 open requests on July 9, 2019.) The letter read as follows: "...we understand that due to the passage of time and changing needs of requesters, it is possible that you no longer have an interest in the documents you requested. Therefore, we ask that you review your enclosed request and confirm your continued interest in the requested information September 30, 2020." Pike County Times sent a letter authorizing the continuation of this FOIA by email today. When the information is finally received, Pike County Times will review and update the article. Click here to read the original articles. Part I is at the bottom of the page with Part II at the top as an update.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Called meeting on Monday, August 24, 2020 – 5:00 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. The public is invited to attend this meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss an application for a private condo community for independent senior living restricted to age 55 and up.

This meeting was attended by all of the commissioners, County Clerk Angela Blount, County Manager Brandon Rogers, and County Attorney Rob Morton. There were about 10 people in the audience. It was a fact-finding meeting only, and no decisions were made in the meeting. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.] Click here for more information including minutes from the Board of Appeals meeting held on Thursday night.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Items of note on the agenda include the opening of sealed bids for ambulance service in Pike County and awarding of the bid on the Concord Road Culvert. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 – 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 – 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. [Note from the Editor: The Grady Contract will be discussed in the Executive Session.] Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times has walked through the hiring of many county managers over the years. Some employments have gone smoothly, and some have not. Pike County has a reputation as a bit of a revolving door of late with the exception of John Hanson staying for six years with Bobby Bickley staying six months before resigning and Ron Alexander resigning after only five months on the job. There was no exposé after Bobby Bickley left; it just wasn’t a good fit for him as county manager. But there were rumors of problems while Ron Alexander was here as county manager. Click here for more. This is the first of a completed three part series.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! If you want to find out about how you can get Breaking News Alerts, click here. Thanks for reading and supporting Pike County Times.com!

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

Commissioners Tim Guy, Tim Daniel, Jason Proctor, and Chairman Briar Johnson were present at the meeting along with County Clerk Angela Blount and County Attorney Rob Morton. Commissioner James Jenkins was not present at the meeting. An Interim County Manager was named in this meeting. Click here to read more.

1. CALL TO ORDER .................................................................................... Chairman J. Briar Johnson
2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA - (O.C.G A. § 50-14-1 (e) (1))
3. NEW BUSINESS: WORKSHOP – FY 2020-2021 Budget
4. ADJOURNMENT

The public is invited to attend.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 – 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on April 28, 2020 – 6:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.] Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting on Monday, April 20, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. PLEASE NOTE: Pike County Board of Commissioners will be following and enforcing the Executive Orders issued by Governor Brian Kemp due to the COVID-19 virus. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - If you appreciate hometown news from www.PikeCountyTimes.com, please consider donating to help pay for the time that goes into the in depth reporting that you see there. If you are interested in becoming a breaking news subscriber, click here for all of the details that you need to know. An annual donation of $25 or more will get an email or text message sent to you with breaking news as it happens. There is a link in purple at the bottom of each page on www.PikeCountyTimes.com that enables donations through PayPal. Donations can also be sent through the mail to Pike County Times, PO Box 843, Zebulon GA 30295, delivered in person, or you can call me with a credit card and I can email or mail a receipt to you.

Are you a business owner? Pike County Times can showcase your business and business events for a price that is very competitive with readers in several counties. Pike County Times is free to read for anyone who would like to read about news that affects Pike County, but there are costs that go with this business. And that doesn't include the amount of time that it takes to do in-depth reporting and put info into an article for readers. Do you like what you're reading? Please make a contribution to support it. As always, thanks for reading and supporting your hometown online newspaper!

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners held a special called meeting on Thursday, April 2, 2020 – 5:00 p.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on January 8, 2020 – 9:00 a.m. at the Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street in Zebulon. There will be a 15 minute Town Hall Meeting prior to the meeting where members of the public can address commissioners prior to the start of the official meeting without getting on an agenda prior to the beginning of the meeting. The public is invited to attend this meeting. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - Pike County Times has covered news for Griffin and Spalding County when time allowed over the past several years. This investigation began because the Griffin Police Department (PD) began issuing press releases only on Facebook and not to the press at the end of January of 2019. The policy has since changed, then changed back, and then changed again, but lately Griffin PD has begun issuing regular press releases to the press again. In the course of this discussion over whether something can be called a “press release” if it is not issued and sent to the press, Pike County Times decided to investigate whether there was a difference in how the local and Atlanta media were treated as well as seeing if any news media were singled out for special treatment. This is the first part of a four part series of articles. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Do you enjoy reading Pike County Times for FREE? Please say thank you to those who advertise with me and provide this service to you. How can you say thank you? You can help Pike County Times by doing business with each of these advertisers and making sure that they know that you appreciate their support of your free, independent online newspaper -- Pike County Times.

THOMASTON - Danny Shumate from CGA Comp is the webmaster for Pike County Times. Danny designed Pike County Times as you see it today and has taught me how to hand code this entire website. (He truly has the patience of a saint because I am NOT a programmer.) He helped me with a complete revamp of Pike County Times in 2007 and again in 2011. Danny can put together a website for your business. From a basic website to a website full of bling, CGA Comp can help you promote your business on the world wide web at a price that is right for your budget. Danny Shumate at CGA Comp can be reached at 706-741-5929. Tell him that the Pike County Times sent you!

ZEBULON - Standing in line at a business counter and need something to do? How about looking at the ads on the screen provided by Southern Digital Captive Audience Advertising. This advertising combines digital signage with advertising for your business in local businesses on a big screen tv. For more information about how you can showcase your business through captive audience advertising, call 770-616-5412. Tell them that the Pike County Times sent you!

ZEBULON - NO WEEDS. NO BUGS. NO PROBLEMS. Pike Pest Management is owned and operated by Mark Andrade. Pike Pest Management has a special for Pike County Times readers. Mention that you saw their advertisement on Pike County Times and ask for 10% off of your initial service. Call Pike Pest Management at 770-567-FLEA (3532) for all of your pest control needs! Tell them that the Pike County Times sent you!

BARNESVILLE - Looking For a Good Chiropractor? Mid Georgia Chiropractic is owned by Mark Fink from Pike County. His business is located on 818A College Drive, Barnesville right down from Subway. I have been going to him for more than fifteen years. Mid Georgia Chiropractic is now open on Thursdays and closed on Fridays. New hours are: Mondays 10 a.m. to 12 noon and 2 to 6:30 p.m.; Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 to 3 p.m.; and Wednesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 2 to 6 p.m. Mid Georgia Chiropractic is now closed on Fridays and remains closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Call Mid Georgia Chiropractic at 770-358-2003 for more information. Tell them that Pike County Times sent you!

ZEBULON - Prayer Power of Georgia, Inc. is a faith based 501(c)3 private foundation dedicated to developing and maturing the spiritual lives of those in our community, as we aspire to fulfill the Great Commission. Through educational materials, instructional programs, and community leadership in discipleship, Prayer Power of Georgia shall demonstrate and promote a richer more fulfilling spiritual and prayer life in our community. Prayer Power sponsors the annual National Day of Prayer and Pike County Baccalaureate Graduation event each year as well as awarding the Saints in Light and Faith Awards each year. Click here to find out more about Prayer Power of Georgia, Inc. and get signed up to receive daily devotionals.

ZEBULON - The Moody-Daniel Funeral Home is independent and locally-owned by the Moody Family and has been serving families since 1982. Currently, owned and operated by Terrell and Sherri Moody and Tim Daniel, the firm was founded by Terrell’s parents, Charles and Betty Moody. Tim Daniel joined the Moody family in 2012, and the funeral home became Moody-Daniel Funeral Home and Cremation Services. It continues to be a family-centered firm. The words, “our family serving your family” are at the heart of everything we do." For more information about Moody-Daniel Funeral Home, click here or call 770-567-8642. Tell them that you read about Moody-Daniel Funeral Home on Pike County Times!

ZEBULON - Pike Countryside Sanitation, the oldest and largest sanitation service in Pike County, is available for all of your recycling and sanitation needs. Pike Countryside Sanitation. It specializes in 20, 30, and 40 yard industrial roll-off containers and has 2, 4, 6, and 8 yard front load containers too. Pike Countryside Sanitation provides curb and home pick up in Pike, Meriweither, and Spalding Counties. Call 770-884-0088 and tell them that Pike County Times sent you!

ZEBULON - Racquethause South Fitness Club provides total healthcare fitness in Zebulon. You won't get the body that you want overnight, but with hard work and dedication, you will get it soon enough. Let us help! Racquethause South offers equipment to work out at your own pace, trainers, and classes of all types to fit all kinds of lifestyles. Step class, Yoga, Crossfit, Spin, Bootcamp, and Silver Sneakers are just a few of the classes that we offer! You can check out Racquethause South on Facebook or drop by and see what they have to offer at 11500 Hwy 19 North in Zebulon. Call Racquethause South at 770-567-4487 to find out what specials they are running for new members. Tell them that Becky Watts at Pike County Times sent you! You may even see me there!

HAMPTON - Full Blown Firearms is a faith-based Christian company that is family owned, family oriented and kid friendly. Call Brad Ward at Full Blown Firearms at 678-463-8155 for all of your firearm needs or check out http://www.fullblownfirearms.com for more details about training and gunsmithing and follow Full Blown Firearms on Facebook.

Full Blown Firearms is located at 1074 Bear Creek Blvd, Suite L in Hampton just south of the racetrack. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 8 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Call Brad Ward at Full Blown Firearms at 678-463-8155 for all of your firearm needs. Tell him that you read about Full Blown Firearms on Pike County Times.com!

MOLENA - Introducing the first sponsor of Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! First Bank of Pike has been serving customers in Pike County and the surrounding area since 1901 and offers Personal and Business banking with a personal touch. Services include checking, savings, money market, certificates of deposit, and IRA’s. Mobile Banking and Bill Payment services are also available! Click here for more. Please let First Bank of Pike know that you appreciate their sponsorship of Breaking News Alerts on Pike County's only FREE online newspaper! at www.firstbankofpike.com/. Tell them Pike County Times sent you!

GRIFFIN - Thank you to Food Depot for advertising with Pike County Times! There are two convenient locations at 1201 West Taylor Street and 816 North Hill Street. Click here for more great deals from Food Depot. Please tell them that you read about this and other deals on Pike County Times!

ZEBULON - SJ Land Surveying specializes in land surveying, planning, and subdivision design. Thank you to SJ Reeves Land Surveying for helping provide your news for free on Pike County Times!

Call Steve J. Reeves Land Surveying at 770-584-5203 or email him at sjreevessurveying@gmail.com and tell him that you saw his ad on Pike County Times!

CONCORD - Let us be your 1st Choice for all of your electrical, heating and air conditioning, commercial refrigeration, alarm systems and more! We also install and service alarm systems for the discriminating building owner. 1st Choice Mechanical provides residential and commercial HVAC and electrical installation and service.

We are licensed and insured. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - The Sellers Law Firm is located at 100 South Hill Street Ste 502 in Griffin, Georgia and specializes in Criminal Defense/DUI, Family Law, Personal Injury, Simple Wills, Social Security Disability and Worker's Compensation.

Please tell them thank you for supporting Pike County Times! Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Need tires? Call 770-567-8333 and see what Rooster's Garage can do for you. They can mount and balance your tires right here in Zebulon. Looking for a car or truck that is reasonably priced right here in Pike County? Do you need an oil change or have a windshield that needs to be replaced? Do you need brake work? What about paint and body on your vehicle? Rooster's Garage is the place to go! Thank you to Pike County Times' newest advertiser who is helping keep Pike County Times FREE to readers. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - Looking for a complete wellness care for your cats and dogs including preventative and diagnostic services? Look no further than North Griffin Animal Hospital located at 1799 North Expressway, Griffin, GA 30223. Does your pet need surgery including spay or a neuter, urgent care, or dental work? The experienced vets and techs of North Griffin Animal Hospital would love the opportunity to provide this much-needed care for your beloved pet.

Call NGAH at 770-227-4125 to set up an appointment. Click on their advertisement on the right side of the page to read more about them on their website. Tell them that the Pike County Times sent you!

MOLENA - If you need some work done around your house from decks and porches to flooring and handmade cabinets, all Anthony Reagan at Reagan Remodeling. He has 40 years of experience that he can put to work for you! Click here to see examples of his work.

If you're looking for quality work, look no further than Reagan Remodeling. Anthony Reagan from Reagan Remodeling has 40 years of experience. And he's local! Give Anthony a call at 404-886-8508 for an appointment or estimate. Tell him that you saw his work on Pike County Times!

GRIFFIN - Tina Winder is a Vacation Specialist with Wishing On A Star Travel, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and has helped make many dreams come true over the past three years. Tina lives in Griffin, Georgia, is married to a wonderful husband who loves Walt Disney World as much as she does, and they have 4 adult daughters and 8 grandchildren. “Creating those ‘Once in a Lifetime’ moments with my family is something I deeply love.”

Planning a Disney vacation can be stressful and overwhelming so Tina’s goal is help take that stress away so that you can enjoy your vacation without having to worry about all the details! Click here for more. Thank you to Wishing On A Start Travel for supporting hometown news.

ZEBULON - Darcy Reinagel is a Licensed Pastoral Counselor who specializes in individual counseling, family counseling, marriage counseling, and anger counseling. She also specializes in stress, anxiety, and trauma counseling. She uses a variety of methods including Temperament, Cognitive Behavioral, and a non-verbal Sandtray method for when life simply cannot be put into words.

"I understand it may not be easy to ask for help, but it can bring clarification, encouragement, and often reduces the time it takes to reach your goal. Thank you to Finding Freedom Christian Counseling LLC for supporting hometown news.