ZEBULON - 2020 is going to be a big election year with the Presidential Primary and Election occurring as well as local, non-partisan, state, and federal elections. Here is a list of everyone who has qualified up through Tuesday afternoon. Click here for more.

Early Voting for the Presidential Primary began on Monday. Voters can cast their vote on the new voting machines at the Board of Election and Registrars located at 81 Jackson Street beside the Sheriff's Office. The Mandatory Saturday Vote Day will be held on March 14, 2020, and March 24, 2020 is Election Day.

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. 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 - County Manager Ron Alexander wrote a letter regarding the closure of public offices in Pike County earlier today. An accompanying public notice was given to all offices to hang on their doors and a notice was sent out about the cancellation of the next night meeting at the end of the month. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: I am leaving this article up top for easy access. I will update it as information becomes available to me. A lot more teleworking will be going on during the Governor's Shelter in Place Order through the 13th. Please call before you go to an office to find out their policies.]

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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 Sheriff’s Office has received numerous phone calls with questions regarding the recent orders passed down by Governor Kemp. I understand that we all face a trying time that can leave us anxious for answers. All of our citizens should be reassured that we are here for you and will continue to perform our duties. Our citizens have, and continue, to exercise an example for others to follow. The elected officials of Pike County have worked tirelessly to address issues as they arise. Numerous posts made to social media are simply untrue and only add fuel to the fears of people. The use of common sense by all is a powerful tool to assure order amid the chaos.

The rules set forth by the Governor are an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. The effort is to alleviate the pressure on our health care system. Most businesses are allowed to stay open with the use of social distancing. Groceries, medications, gas, and household goods can still be purchased. Churches can still worship while following social distancing at their facility. We are all in this together and we will prevail through faith in God, prayer and determination.

Sheriff Jimmy Thomas

ZEBULON - The Library Board Meeting for the month of April has been canceled. This cancellation is due to Governor’s recommendation for Shelter-in-Place.

ZEBULON - The next blood drive in Pike County is scheduled at the A. B. Edwards Senior Center located at 2488 Highway 19 North in Zebulon, GA 30295 on Monday, April 6, 2020 from 2-7 p.m.

From the website: "Donating blood products is essential to community health and the need for blood products is constant. As part of our nation’s critical infrastructure, healthy individuals can still donate in areas that have issued shelter in place declarations. The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need." Click here to find out more about giving blood during the Shelter in Place Order that has been issued for the state of Georgia.

ZEBULON - County Manager Ron Alexander released the following statement regarding the Governor's Shelter in Place Order. "The citizens of Pike are good reasonable people, and I trust that we all understand the intent of the order. If we all shelter in place for this period of time, I do believe it will make a difference. As such, I would advise our citizens to please comply with the directives set forth in the order, and remain strong during these troubled times."

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners has cancelled their regular scheduled meeting for Wednesday, April 8, 2020, 9:00 a.m. meeting. This cancellation is due to Governor’s recommendation for Shelter-in-Place.

GRIFFIN - With the enactment of Governor Brian Kemp’s shelter-in-place executive order, the curfews imposed by the city of Griffin and Spalding County are no longer in effect. Click here for more.

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 - Why am I running for Commissioner? I have been a resident of Pike County for almost 15 years. I am married to Rusty Gwyn and we have 3 beautiful daughters. I currently work alongside my husband at his company, General Machine Diecron, Inc that is located in Pike County and I have been an agent at McLeRoy Realty for 15 years.

My desire is to create a strong board of commissioners who work closely, and who will allow all of Pike to grow in a positive manner. I want to sit at the table with the school board and help resolve the issues that growth has placed before them. I want all forms of Pike Leadership to come together annually to talk about each of their issues and priorities, and then work on ideas to resolve them. I want to find the most effective ways to reach these resolutions and to seek savings that could ease our current budget.

I want to involve the citizens of the 4th district and keep them informed, via social media, emails or phone calls. Topics such as current board agendas, rezoning applications, and other items they want answers for. I want to see the community conversations be about resolutions and being united on preserving Pike County as the wonderful place we all cherish. I want to have an open-door policy where people can communicate with me about their ideas and concerns within our district and engage them in the discussion to help plan for the future of our area. I want to be your County Commissioner and I want your vote! Email issues that matter to you: PCGADistrict4@gmail.com. What you have to say matters to me! [Note from the Editor: You can visit Tricia's Facebook by clicking on her red ad below. It also has her phone number.]

ATLANTA - Today Governor Brian P. Kemp issued a shelter in place order for the state of Georgia. The order will be effective beginning Friday, April 3rd, at 6:00 PM and expire Monday, April 13th, at 11:59 PM. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - As coronavirus has upended our daily lives, pushed many into quarantine, and caused chaos in the economy, elections in Georgia have changed - temporarily - to meet the unique moment all Americans are facing. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - McKinley Road East of Williamson-Zebulon Road (close to the Boy Scout Hut) will he closed for 2 days to make necessary repairs to the culvert. The county will advise when the road is re-opened.

ATLANTA - Today Governor Brian P. Kemp provided an update on COVID-19 in Georgia by giving the following address to Georgians... "Tomorrow, I will sign a statewide shelter in place order, which will go into effect on Friday and run through April 13, 2020, in line with our public health emergency order. Dr. Toomey and I are finalizing the order to make sure it keeps our citizens – in every zip code – safe and healthy. We are taking action to protect our hospitals, help our medical providers, and prepare for patient surge. This action will ensure uniformity among jurisdictions for Georgians sheltering in place and help families and businesses comply with its provisions. We will publish the order tomorrow and issue detailed guidance so Georgians can get prepared. We will continue to monitor the data and make adjustments as needed, keeping members of the public informed every step of the way." Click here for more.

Mrs. Eleanor Sue Lifsey Quinn, age 86, of Meansville, passed away March 31, 2020, at her home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - Effective immediately, Zebulon City Hall is closed to public access. You can pay your water bill by mail, by utilizing the white drop box located outside of city hall, or you can pay your water bill online at www.zebulonpayments.com. Outstanding tickets can be paid at www.EZcourtpay.com.

Thank you for your understanding as we try to ensure everyone's safety during this time.

Mr. Clyde L. Lacy, age 87, of Concord, passed away March 30, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

LAGRANGE – We anticipate more positive cases given the additional testing by Georgia Department of Public Health and private providers. This increase will occur irrespective of current control measures being put in place by local and the State governments, likely until past Easter. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - Over the next few weeks, Governor Brian P. Kemp and Georgia National Guard Adjutant General Tom Carden will activate and deploy over 100 Guardsmen to any long-term care facility - assisted living facility or nursing home - with COVID-19 cases. The Governor and Adjutant General will send troops to specific locations to implement infection control protocols and enhanced sanitation methods to mitigate COVID-19 exposure among vulnerable residents. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - Public health recommendations have been updated to accommodate new scientific evidence, evolving epidemiology and the need to simplify risk stratification. [Note from the Editor: Pike County Times was advised that the CDC changed the period of exposure risk from “onset of symptoms” to “48 hours before symptom onset.] 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.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Commissioners would like to thank the residents of Pike County for adhering to the guidelines set forth by Governor Kemp as we seek to reduce of the spread of COVID-19. Because citizens are exercising our own extreme measures to help flatten the curve, Commissioners and other county leaders do not see the need to impose a curfew or shelter in place restriction at this time.

Thank you for all you are doing during these days of social distancing; our sacrifices today will help us resume our normal routines as quickly and safely as possible.

ZEBULON - The regularly scheduled April 1st, 2020 meeting will be postponed and the Development Authority of Pike County will reconvene at the May 6th meeting.

ZEBULON - Pike County now has 2 official, positive cases of COVID-19. Upson has 5, Lamar has 4, and Spalding has 12. The number of positive tests by a commercial lab is 2,507, and the number of postive tests by the Georgia Public Health Lab is 302 for a total of 2,809 positive confirmed cases with 707 hospitalizations and 87 deaths throughout the state of Georgia. Click here for more information. This website is updated at noon and 7 p.m. every day.

ATLANTA - With so many people staying home to slow the spread of COVID-19, access to telecommunication has become more crucial than ever. Georgia Relay and the Georgia Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (GCDHH) remind Georgia residents who have difficulty using a telephone – including those who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or have difficultly speaking – to take advantage of free resources that remain available to make conversing by phone easier. Click here for more.

MACON - The COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis is forcing people to distance themselves from others, work remotely, and spend time indoors and online. While social distancing is a good health practice to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, it may be helping scammers. Research from the Better Business Bureau, the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, and the Stanford Center on Longevity found that people are more likely to lose money to a scam when they are socially or physically isolated from others, if they are actively engaging online, and if they are financially vulnerable. Click here for more.

NEWARK, N.J. – A Georgia man will appear in court today for his alleged role in a conspiracy to defraud federally funded and private health care benefit programs by submitting fraudulent testing claims for COVID-19 and genetic cancer screenings, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times is in the process of uploading candidate information on the Election Page above. Each contested race will have a link to the candidates and a 500 word or less statement on why they are running for office. At this time, the election date is scheduled for May 19, but it may move to June because of the coronavirus pandemic in our state. Pike County Times will keep readers up to date on all voting dates.

Click here for information on County Commission District 3 candidates.

Click here for information on Georgia House of Representatives District 131 candidates.

CONCORD - I’m Beth Camp, Republican candidate for the vacated seat in the Georgia House of Representatives District 131 for Lamar, Upson & Pike Counties. This election is unlike any other in our American history. I would knock on your door if I could and ask you for your vote. I would smile warmly as I shook your hand at a political forum or event answering any question you have regarding my position on upholding the Constitution, prioritizing education, and rural economic development. I would come to your organization or church and discuss the importance of Christian conservative values in our society.

For now, those activities are on hold so we can continue to protect our most vulnerable citizens. I care about you, your needs, and the needs of this community we all love. As the only candidate in this race with a voting history, my record of being a fiscal conservative is fact, not promises.

I can’t speak with you face to face to ask for your valuable vote, so please accept this as my formal invitation to support and vote for me in the Republican Primary on May 19th either at your voting precinct in person or using absentee ballot. I need your vote!

Learn more about me, my family, my experience, and my platform at www.CampForGeorgia.com and feel free to join my Facebook page Elect Beth Camp for Georgia House of Representatives District 131 for immediate information updates.

ZEBULON - From Pike Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Jimmy Totten: "This email is to inform you of Pike County’s first positive case of Covid 19. We knew this day would happen, and we know we will have more citizens test positive for covid 19. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Crews with a project to resurface the asphalt on US 19/Georgia 3 in Upson, Pike and Spalding Counties will be starting the project in the Zebulon Square area next week, Monday, Mar. 30 through Friday, Apr. 3, 2020 from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day. Click here for more.

WASHINGTON DC - Since older Americans are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus (COVID-19), I wanted to let you know the steps we’re taking to help our Medicare beneficiaries cope with the pandemic. We’re warning Medicare beneficiaries that scammers may try to use this emergency to steal their Medicare number, banking information, or other personal data. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Director Brad Vaughan from the Pike County Office of Planning & Development issued the following statement: Due to CDC guidelines regarding public gatherings, the following meetings have been cancelled for the month of April from the office of Planning & Development: April 9th, 2020 – Planning Commission – NO MEETING and April 16th, 2020 – Board of Appeals – NO MEETING. All pending agenda items will be postponed until it is possible to gather for a regularly scheduled meeting. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office at 770-567-2007. Click here to find out more about openings, closings, and contact info for offices in Pike County.

ATLANTA - On March 14, 2020, Governor Brian Kemp authorized the activation of up to 2,000 members of the Georgia National Guard in order to combat COVID-19. At this time, over 170 service members are activated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They have mobilized to support requests from the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) and Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - The Spalding County Board of Commissioners has voted to ratify a declaration of a state of emergency and enacted a curfew. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - Today Governor Brian P. Kemp issued Executive Order 03.26.20.02 closing public elementary and secondary schools for in-person instruction through April 24, 2020. Students may return to school on Monday, April 27, 2020. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - There are 117 confirmed cases COVID-19 in District 4. This includes Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup and Upson Counties. Click here for more.

LAGRANGE - District 4 Public Health has issued a retraction on yesterday's COVID-19 case count that included Pike County with three positive cases. According to the press release issued this morning, there are 76 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in District 4 and there are NO positive cases of COVID-19 in Pike County. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - The City of Griffin has imposed a curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. that is effective immediately. Click here to read this legislation in its entirety including those who are exempt from the curfew.

BARNESVILLE - First-year students applying to Gordon State College for the Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 semesters can be admitted without an ACT or SAT score with the required 2.0 GPA. In light of the decision made by the College Board and ACT to suspend the availability of testing during the COVID-19 virus pandemic, prospective students applying for admission in Fall 2020 will not be required to submit an ACT or SAT score. Click here for more.

LAGRANGE - [Note from the Editor: District 4 Public Health has issued a retraction on yesterday's COVID-19 case count that included Pike County with three positive cases. According to the press release issued this morning, there are 76 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in District 4 and there are NO positive cases of COVID-19 in Pike County...] There are now 184 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in District 4, which includes 3 confirmed cases in Pike County today. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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!

ATLANTA - Secretary of State Raffensperger is taking unprecedented steps to protect the public health of Georgia voters while also upholding the integrity of the vote. These temporary steps are being made because of the COVID-19 pandemic threatening public health in Georgia and around the world. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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!

ATLANTA - This is the text of Governor Brian Kemp's announcement earlier today. Highlights include: how many cases we have here in the state as well as those who have succumbed to this coronavirus, how many tests have been conducted as well as new testing sites, and how the state is working to get needed items to those who are working on the front lines. An executive order will be issued to the Department of Public Health "requiring certain individuals with an increased risk of complications from COVID-19 to isolate, quarantine, or shelter in place." Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The information page on the upcoming elections is finally beginning to get updated to go online. Click here to read "Election Information on District 3 County Commissioner." Look for more updates from the original article at the top of the page through today and upcoming days.

[Note from the Editor: If you are running for local or state office and have not sent your candidate statement to me at editor@pikecountytimes(dot)com yet, please send a 500 word or less statement on why YOU are the best person for the job, the reasons for YOUR candidacy, and your contact information including website, etc. I will NOT be printing candidate rants against your opponents per my regular political policy.]

ATLANTA - The FBI is once again asking for the public’s help in identifying a dangerous serial armed robber who has hit an additional four dollar stores and has escalated to violence. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - I imagine at some point this week you thought, if only for a moment, that the world was unraveling. We listen for the daily count of those that are infected and those that have died. Plans with our friends and family are being cancelled indefinitely. We worship behind computer screens. We aren’t supposed to hug our parents or our children. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - On March 18, 2020, Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that Georgia has received an official statewide disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This declaration will provide assistance in the form of SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans to impacted small businesses in all 159 counties in Georgia. Click here for more.

THOMASTON - The Georgia Department of Transportation has announced it awarded contracts for five projects in District 3 (West Central Georgia region). The project bids were received on Feb. 21, 2020 and the contracts awarded to the lowest qualified bidders on Mar. 6, 2020. 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.

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.

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 - On March 14, 2020 The Honorable Harold D. Melton, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia entered an Order Declaring a Statewide Judicial Emergency created by COVID-19. Prior to the Chief Justice’s Declaration, your judges of Pike County and the Griffin Judicial Circuit were already taking proactive steps, lead by the Chief Judge C. Edwards. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Parks and Recreation Authority (PCPRA) released a notification tonight that the park including the walking track, playground, and ball fields are now closed to public access. Opening Day is also postponed indefinitely at this time. Click here for more.

Mrs. Donna Jean Howard Worshum, age 59, of Concord, passed away March 18, 2020, at her home. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times received this letter from Pike Countryside Sanitation, Inc. this afternoon in regard to the Transfer Station and Recycling Center. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - As a precautionary measure to guard against the Coronavirus COVID-19 and to help ensure the health and safety of the public and our employees: The Pike County Tax Commissioner's Office will be closed to the public and walk-in customers from March 19-27. We will reevaluate the situation at that time. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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 - As of yesterday, the following Environmental Health offices are closed to walk-in services. Please call in for over-the-phone payments, or use the email provided for your particular office for applications, complaints, or concerns.
• Coweta County - Phone: 770-683-7345 // Email: stephanie.mapp@dph.ga.gov
• Fayette County - Phone: 770-305-5415 // Email: Robert.kurbes@dph.ga.gov
• Henry County - Phone: 770-288-6190 // Email: tammy.combs@dph.ga.gov OR Kenya.moore-perrin@dph.ga.gov
• Pike County - Phone: 770-567-8972 x3 // Email: ben.trotter@dph.ga.gov
• Upson County - Phone/Emails:
• Jalesa Dixon Jalesa.dixon@dph.ga.gov 706-647-5749 for food service and facilities questions
• Shanna Glanton: shanna.glanton@dph.ga.gov 706-647-5749 office for all questions, document requests, applications, complaints, payments over the phone.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.) today announced changes to the operating status of her Georgia and Washington, D.C. offices amid the coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Just in case you were wondering, I asked Pike County Manager Ron Alexander whether Pike offices were looking at closing because of COVID-19. He said, "Not at this time. We are closely monitoring the conditions."

Pike County Times will keep readers apprised of changes as soon as notifications are given. The J. Joel Edwards Library is closed for now. See article dated 3.17.20 for more info. The Tax Commissioner's Office is closing to in office traffic tomorrow. See the Breaking News article dated 3.18.20 for more info.

In the meantime, wash your hands and avoid being too close to people around you if you have to leave your house, and make sure that you say thank you to those who have to work in the service industry--from county government to grocery stores to much more--and those who work in emergency services from local law enforcement, volunteer fire fighters, and emergency medical services workers!

ZEBULON - Pike Assembly of God will will have food pantry distribution on Friday, March 20, 2020 from 9 am to 12 noon. Pike County Assembly of God is located at 4990 Hwy 19 in Zebulon. If you have not picked up from this food pantry before, there is a form to fill out for this food pantry that asks personal info like address, wages, assistance received, etc. However, they don't give based on income or anything. And if you are picking up for a friend, then they'll have to fill out the same form as well. You can fill out the paperwork while you are waiting in line for pick up.

STAY IN YOUR CAR PLEASE. All boxes will be distributed in a car line. They will have them ready for you do drive up, and they will load them in your vehicle. NO ONE WILL NEED TO COME INSIDE FOR PICKUP.

ZEBULON - Tanya Perkins, Director/Animal Control Officer for Pike County, advised that another animal has been tested and come back positive for rabies in Pike County. Click here for more.

BARNESVILLE - This information update has been issued to Gordon State College students from President Kirk Nooks as of today regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - According to Dr. Ashton Harris, an epidemiologist with the Georgia Department of Public Health, there is no confirmed case of COVID-19 in Spalding County... However, there is now one confirmed case in Lamar County, bringing the total for District 4, which includes Spalding County, to 12. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The J. Joel Edwards Public Library in Zebulon is closed to the public until further notice. Materials may be returned through the drop box. ALL materials returned during this time will incur NO LATE FEES. Any holds received during this time will be held until the library is again open to the public. The library staff will be glad to assist you by phone during regular business hours. If you have questions regarding your account (renewals, holds, fines, etc.), please have your account number available when you call. 770-567-2014. Click here for to download audio books.

ZEBULON - We have decided to cancel all classes at this time. No childcare until further notice. The gym is still open and staffed. Thank you to Racquethause South for supporting hometown news.

Mrs. Mary Virginia Coventry Cochran, age 92, of Meansville, passed away March 15, 2020, at Riverside Nursing Center in Thomaston. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - The following arrests have been made over the past week:
1. Curtis, Corey 29 year old black male from Zebulon for warrants out of Butt's county.
2. Goodman, Michael white male from Houston for VOP.
3. Cook, Nicholas 31 year old white male from Covington for warrants out of Newton county.
4. Frieson, Mickel 52 year old black male from Stone Mt. for Susp. Registration, and susp. License.
5. Varner, Keisha 34 year old black female from Jackson for Expired tag, and Susp. License.
6. Lewis, Billy 50 year old white male from Lamar for Disorderly Conduct.

ATLANTA - In accordance with newly issued federal guidance, Governor Brian P. Kemp signed Executive Order 3.16.20.01 closing all public elementary, secondary, and post-secondary public schools in Georgia from March 18, 2020 to March 31, 2020. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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!

MEANSVILLE - On March 15, 2020, at 5:10 p.m. Pike County Deputies responded to a 3 vehicle accident on Hwy 109 at Kings Road. A Mercedes Benz (driven by Bennie Wilkins) was traveling east on Hwy 109. A Chevrolet Blazer (driven by David Ingram) was attempting to turn left onto Kings Road from Hwy 109 and hit the Mercedes Benz head on. The Mercedes then made contact with a second vehicle (a Ford F-150). Bennie Wilkins was taken to Grady Memorial by life flight with an arm and back injuries. Mr. Wilkins's two minor children were transported to Spalding Regional with non-life threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported at the scene. David Ingram (driver of Chevy Blazer) was cited for failure to yield.

ZEBULON - Give blood at the A. B. Edwards Senior Center located at 2488 Highway 19 North in Zebulon, GA 30295 on April 6, 2020 from 2-7 p.m. Sign up at www.redcrossblood.org.

GRIFFIN - In an ongoing effort to safeguard the health and wellbeing of both the Spalding County community and Spalding County Sheriff’s Office employees, we will be making temporary changes to the way that we respond to some non-emergency calls, calls for crimes that are not in progress or have already occurred, and civil matters. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - Today Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Health Care Association issued the following joint statement regarding measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and personal care homes, after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued new guidance: Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Pike Post 197 American Legion will host the Zebulon 5K/10K Fun Run/Walk Benefiting Youth Programs on Saturday, 18 April 2020. The event location will be Pike County American Legion Post 197, 645 Meansville St, Zebulon, GA 30295, and the event will be held from 8:00 -11:00 a.m. Click here for more. *This may be postponed until June. I'll keep an eye on it.

ATLANTA -- In light of the public health emergency posed by COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, in-person voting presents increased risk to voters and poll workers. Governor Kemp has declared a public health emergency. President Trump has declared a national emergency, said Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. "Events are moving rapidly and my highest priority is protecting the health of our poll workers, their families, and the community at large." Click here for more.

BARNESVILLE - Dr. Kirk A. Nooks, Ed.D., President of Gordon State College, sent out an update on COVID-19 with the college and the two students who may have been exposed to COVID-19 while off campus earlier this week. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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!

ATLANTA - The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the Gold Dome for the eighth week of the 2020 legislative session on Monday, March 2. My colleagues and I were in session for four days last week, and we passed more than 40 bills and resolutions on the House floor. With “Cross Over Day” coming up in a few days, we spent our time this week preparing for this important deadline by voting on more legislation on the House floor and in our committees. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Director of the Pike County Parks & Recreation Authority advised that the Parks & Recreation Board of Directors has made the decision that the beginning of the 2020 baseball/softball season will be postponed until March 28 over concerns of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. "The safety and well being of all our participants and their families is our first priority. Our hope is to hold all of the opening day activities on March 28," he said in the letter to parents of participants. "Effective tomorrow, March 13, all baseball & softball activities are suspended through March 22. At the earliest, activities will begin back on March 23. Coaches & Parents will be contacted on when activities can begin again. This is an ever changing situation and updates will be sent out as warranted. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work through this situation."

ZEBULON - Pike County Soccer was advised by the President, Russel Rankenburg, and the Georgia Soccer Board of Directors that all soccer activities are suspended through April 30, 2020. "This is an unprecedented and unfortunate situation and we are truly sorry to have to make this announcement. Georgia Soccer has determined this action is necessary to allow our affiliates and their members to exercise as much caution as possible given the acceleration of this virus not only in our state but across the country. We will remain vigilant and up to date on the circumstances involving this situation by participating in weekly calls with our governing authorities. This decision was made in accordance with our governing bodies, information published by local and federal medical professionals, and actions taken by many other large sports organizations."

The letter closed with an apology and said, "We recognize the impact this decision will have on the spring season and soccer programs across the state. Georgia Soccer will work diligently, in partnership with our affiliates and their members, to lessen its effects. Our goal is to resume play as soon as possible. If information and circumstances allow us to resume play prior to April 30, we will immediately communicate that information."

ATLANTA - Following President Trump’s national emergency declaration today, Governor Kemp issued the following statement:

“Based on President Trump's emergency declaration, I will declare a public health emergency for the State of Georgia tomorrow morning. This declaration will greatly assist health and emergency management officials across Georgia by deploying all available resources for the mitigation and treatment of COVID-19. In accordance with state law, I will call for a special session of the General Assembly to convene at the State Capitol at 8 AM on Monday, March 16, 2020 to ratify this action through a joint resolution. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - The Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer finds that cancer death rates continued to decline from 2001 to 2017 in the United States for all cancer sites combined. Click here for more.

WASHINGTON DC - President Trump on Friday declared a national emergency over the coronavirus, freeing up additional resources and funding as federal, state and local governments attempt to combat the rapidly spreading disease. Click here for more.

ATLANTA – Federal agents have arrested twenty-four individuals for their involvement in a large-scale fraud and money laundering operation that targeted citizens, corporations, and financial institutions throughout the United States. Business email compromise schemes, romance fraud scams, and retirement account scams, among other frauds, duped numerous victims into losing more than $30 million. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN AND THOMASTON - Southern Crescent Technical College has made the decision to suspend all classes for the week of March 16. Here is a message from SCTC President, Dr. Alvetta Thomas:

"In light of the current health issues and concerns resulting from the Coronavirus (COVID-19), Southern Crescent Technical College has made the decision to suspend all classes (including online) and activities for the week of March 16, 2020 with the exception of allied health clinical rotations which will continue as scheduled. Students should contact their instructor regarding any concerns with clinicals.

All campus locations will be closed to students and guests during this time. It is our goal to provide our customers with the highest level of service, therefore the College will maintain customer service hours via phone and email..." Click here to read the rest of this public information document.

ATLANTA - The Georgia General Assembly will suspend the 2020 legislative session indefinitely after Friday, March 13, the 29th Legislative Day. The suspension is out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of health and safety of members, staff and the public given the prevalence of the Coronavirus. Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan and Speaker of the House David Ralston have mutually agreed to suspend the session and resume at a future date to be determined. Click here for more.

DUBLIN - David L. Whitmer, FACHE Director of the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center, issued notification that there are new guidelines in place for those visiting the Dublin VA Medical Center. Click here for more.

BARNESVILLE - Gordon State College will temporarily suspend all instruction until Monday, March 30, 2020 in accordance with the University System of Georgia guidance. Additionally, Gordon State College's theater production of "Our Town" is cancelled for Thursday, March 12, 2020 and all athletic events through March 29, 2020 are also postponed or cancelled. Click here for more.

ZEBULON -The Pike County School System put out the following notice on social media this evening as well as notifying parents of students in the district. The notice read as follows: "In his press conference today, Gov. Kemp granted local school districts the option to close schools if they felt it was in the best interest of their community. This is uncharted territory for all of us and we are making every effort to meet the needs of our students and their families while also being mindful of the health concerns for all involved."

School is closed tomorrow, Friday, March 13, 2020. We will take tomorrow to thoroughly clean our schools and gather the information needed to make decisions about how we proceed moving forward. We understand that school closings create challenges for our families, but our first priority is the safety of our students and staff. We are grateful for your understanding and for your support.

Central Office and School Administrators report.

ZEBULON - The Pike County School System sent out a letter to students and their parents regarding the Coronavirus on March 5, 2020. A letter was also sent out to students and parents yesterday regarding perfect attendance and the Coronavirus. Click here for more.

CONCORD - Tanya Perkins, Director/Animal Control Officer for Pike County, was advised today by Ben Trotter, Environmental Health County Manager for Pike and Upson Counties from the Georgia Department of Public Health, that a bat sent for rabies testing yesterday came back positive. Click here for more.

Thank you to First Bank of Pike for sponsoring Pike County Times’ Breaking News Alerts! 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!

ATLANTA – Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger reminds Georgians that early voting and absentee ballots are ways to avoid crowds and minimize possible exposure to the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19. 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.

SHARPSBURG - Greetings from the Capitol! With 'Cross Over' day fast approaching, my colleagues and I are seeing even more legislation presented on the floor to be voted on. In the midst of the busy schedule of hearings, meetings, and votes I remain committed to keeping you informed. 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.

ZEBULON - Patricia Beckham, President of the Pike County Branch NAACP/Concerned Citizens of Pike County, is shown here making a donations of school supplies to Pike County Primary School in Zebulon, Georgia. Click here for more.

MEANSVILLE - Brittany Miller (Meansville City Council), Janet Minter (Meansville City Council) and Claude Hollis (Zebulon City Council) attending Elected Official Training at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia campus in Athens. Click here for more.

Traci Lane Durham, age 53, of Williamson, passed away March 6, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Mr. Hoyt Lester Swaney, age 89 of Williamson, passed away March 6, 2020, at Brightmoor Hospice. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

WILLIAMSON - Pike County Deputies responded to a motor vehicle collision on Highway 362 at Williamson/Zebulon Road this evening at 6:34 p.m. 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. 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!

Mrs. Glenda Engle, age 79, of Thomaston, passed away March 6, 2020, at Brightmoor Hospice in Griffin. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - Here is the updated list of road closures in Pike County. (Thank you to County Manager Ron Alexander for getting these out today!) We have had a tremendous amount of rain in such a short time that there is simply no place for it to go. Here is the list that I am updating as I receive notification.
• Dripping Rock Road
• Sunset Drive (the county is working on it)
• Milner Road north of Bottoms Road - REOPENED
• McKinley Road east of Williamson/Zebulon Road - REOPENED
• Hunter Road - REOPENED
• Concord Road just past Bottoms Road on the south side where Bottoms and Concord Road meet

If you see water over the road, do NOT drive over it and call 911 to let know get in touch with Public Works to block off the area. Same goes for downed trees, etc. And if you have some pictures, send them to me on Facebook, text them to 770-468-7583, or email them at editor@pikecountytimes.com, and I'll upload with your name on them!

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.

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.

Ms. Thelma Marie Robinson White, age 72, of Thomaston, passed away March 4, 2020, at her home. 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 - The Zebulon sidewalk project will begin again tomorrow. There have been some delay due to the tremendous amount of rain that we have been experiencing since the beginning of the year. Due to ongoing construction, Head Street will be closed most of the day on Friday and Saturday. Franklin Street will also be closed at least part of the day on Friday. Please take care when traveling through this area on the highway.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times was uploading qualification information and noticed that there were only two judicial seats up for re-election in the Griffin Judicial Circuit instead of three. Judge Mack Crawford’s resignation was effective on March 1, 2020, and it should have been listed as available for qualification as well but was not.

Pike County Times contacted Candice Broce, the Director of Communications and Chief Deputy of Executive Counsel for Governor Kemp, and asked for confirmation that Governor Kemp was going to appoint someone to this position. She advised that "The Governor will appoint someone to fill the vacancy." Pike County Times does not have a timetable on this but will keep the public apprised of changes as soon as notice is given to the press.

ZEBULON - On Monday, February 24, the House reconvened for the start of the seventh week of the 2020 legislative session, and my colleagues and I met on the House floor all five days to vote on important legislation. We also convened with the Senate for a joint session to hear Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Harold D. Melton deliver the annual State of the Judiciary address. By the end of this eventful week, we reached Legislative Day 21 and passed the half-way point of the legislative session. Click here for more.

Mr. Jimmy D. Silver, age 76, of Thomaston, formerly of Sharpsburg, passed away March 4, 2020, at Providence Healthcare in Thomaston. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - I got verification from the County Manager (County Clerk Angela Eskew Blount is awesome to get my answer at 4:55 p.m.!) that we have two road closures in Pike County at this time. Dripping Rock Road is closed due to rising flood waters. (Thank you to JT Nicholson for letting me know!) And Sunset Drive is closed because the county is working on it.

If you see waters over the road, do NOT drive over it and call 911 to let know get in touch with Public Works to block off the area. Same goes for downed trees, etc.

ZEBULON - Note on Brent Taylor's Kickoff Event that had been scheduled for Saturday... "We have decided to postpone our Kickoff Event due to the cold weather expected Saturday. We will host another event when the weather warms up a bit. I look forward to seeing all of you then. We will update you on the new date as soon as it is set in stone. Thanks!!" brentforprobate.weebly.com.

ZEBULON - Early Voting for the Presidential Primary began today. Voters can cast their vote on the new voting machines at the Board of Election and Registrars located at 81 Jackson Street beside the Sheriff's Office. The Mandatory Saturday Vote Day will be held on March 14, 2020, and March 24, 2020 is Election Day.

Go to the Board of Elections and Registrars' page at https://www.pikecoga.com/registrar for more information.

ZEBULON - Rep. Ken Pullin placed an announcement on Facebook to advise that he will not be running for re-election yesterday. The announcement read as follows: " Today, I’m announcing I will not be seeking reelection to the Georgia House of Representatives for the 2021-2022 term.

I have been so honored and humbled to be able to serve District 131 and the State of Georgia for the past 2 years. I will never forget all the friends I’ve made and the support you have given me and my family. I pray that we can continue our friendships over the upcoming years.

I also want to thank my wife, my children, and my mom for all their help, support, and love. Serving is a team effort and I've got a great team! I love you all so much!

God Bless, Ken

THOMASTON - I am proud to announce that I will be running for Georgia House Representive Seat for our District 131. It will be an honor to serve the people of Pike, Lamar, and Upson Counties.

I thank Representative Ken Pullin for his service and respect his decision not to run in this next election cycle. I am asking for your support, your prayers, and your votes. I treasure your thoughts and comments. kennycoggins@hotmail.com

Sincerely, Kenny Coggins.

ZEBULON - I am excited to announce my candidacy for District 131 Georgia House of Representatives. My past experience lead me to this decision along with many prayers and the loving support of family and friends.

I look forward to meeting everyone in the District to serve the entire area’s interests.

Sincerely, Beth Camp

You can find out more about Beth on her Facebook page by clicking here.

ZEBULON - Pike County Times received an update on the VA Clinic from Zebulon City Administrator Larry Mitchum. He advised that a memorandum of understanding has been signed to provide water and sewer to the facility. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on February 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: The meeting is complete.]

CONCORD - A little after 7 a.m. this morning, an 18 wheeler with a trailer was traveling on Hwy 18 toward Concord. As the big rig driver came along at Bottoms Road and Hwy 18 by the Dollar General, a vehicle driven by a juvenile pulled in front of the tractor trailer causing the driver to lock down on the brakes to avoid hitting the vehicle driven by the juvenile. Click here for more.

Adalynn Kate Norton, the infant daughter of Taylor and Sibley Norton of Concord, was born February 23, 2020. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ATLANTA – Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger reminded Georgians Monday that they have just days to register to vote to be able to participate in the March 24 Presidential Preference Primary. Advance voting begins March 2, but the last day to register is Monday, Feb. 24, according to Georgia law. Click here for more.

LOCUST GROVE HIGH SCHOOL - Operation Lunchbox has one mission—feed hungry kids. The Sellers Law Firm, LLC, is humbled to be a part of organizing the Operation Lunchbox Charity Bash to help feed hungry students in our community. This event is bringing local businesses together to provide an opportunity for all ages to be entertained by athletes and entertainers, including wrestling superstars, a former 2x World Champion boxer, film extras from The Walking Dead, & stand-up comedians, all in an effort to bring more awareness to the mission of Operation Lunchbox. Click here and scroll down to the bottom of the page for more information including tickets.

ZEBULON - This is the current list of closings. Roads are starting to open back up as the water recedes. Pike County Times will update as the information is released. Click here for more including photos. [Note from the Editor: There are some fantastic pictures of the waters receding on Elkins Creek courtesy of JT Nicholson.]

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. 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!

MEANSVILLE - Pike County Sheriff’s Deputies captured two suspects from an armed carjacking that took place in Dekalb County. Deputies attempted to stop a stolen Nissan Rogue at 8:08 p.m. last night. The driver refused to stop and a pursuit ensued on Highway 19 southbound through Zebulon 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. 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 - On Thursday, February 20, 2020, between 8:00 and 8:15 pm, Officers with the City of Griffin Police Department Uniform Patrol Division were dispatched to Marco’s Pizza on Highway 16 West in reference to a robbery that occurred in the area of Turner Street. Click here for more.

BARNESVILLE - Gordon State College has announced plans to develop a club football team that will begin competition in Fall Semester 2020. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The J. Joel Edwards Public Library announces two new free programs for youngsters that began this month. Click here for more.

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!

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 - As a proud citizen of Pike County, I am very excited about my campaign for Clerk of Superior Court. My platform will include not only my vision, but also a collaboration with the citizens of Pike County.

Rebekah is an active member of the Pike County community and committed to serving others with excellence. As a Conservative Republican, Rebekah will serve the growing Pike community with a sound fiscal policy while focusing on moving the office of Clerk of Superior Court forward in to the decade.

Please stay tuned in the coming weeks as I unveil my 2020 campaign platform on March 6th!

Please vote Rebekah Hanson May 19!

Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Virginia “Ginny” Blakeney of Williamson officially announces her candidacy for the 2020 Pike County Probate Judge Election. Ginny is a lifelong resident of Pike County who stays actively involved with the community and is dedicated to public service.

With almost 6 years of experience working with the local government she is committed to meeting the needs of the citizens in a conservative and sincere manner.

As the community continues to experience rapid growth it will be imperative that the Probate Office move forward with new energy and a fiscally responsible approach that will both enhance and increase the services provided into the future.

Ginny would appreciate your VOTE for PROBATE JUDGE on May 19!

Click here for more.

I am Brent Taylor and I am seeking the office of Probate Judge for Pike County because once again, God has placed this on my heart. I am married to Clint Taylor and I have 2 children and 2 stepchildren, 3 of which attended Pike County schools. I received my paralegal certification with the University of Georgia’s paralegal certification program in 2008. I recently discovered that my 4 times great grandparents (Ancel Kitchens and Mary Harris) were married in the Pike County Probate Court on January 1, 1843. I find this amazing that after 177 years, I have come full circle back to the place they were married and hopefully become the next Pike County Probate Court Judge.

I have served as a paralegal for our Pike County Administrator for 11+ years. During this time, I have gained experience in the probate process from start to finish. I have assisted many families who were faced with settling their loved one’s estate and affairs during a very difficult period in their life. I have assisted with guardianships of adult and minor Wards of the court managing their income and expenses which provided me valuable insight and capability in completing court mandated reports. I have experience in general management and office management which I will use to efficiently and effectively operate the Probate Court within the budgetary guidelines set by the County Commissioners. I can assure the citizens of Pike County that the Probate Court office will be up to date as our county is quickly growing.

I am past chapter leader and current member of the steering committee for The Compassionate Friends of Central Georgia, a self-help support group for bereaved parents and families who have lost a child, I am a member of Oak Hill Baptist Church where I serve on the bereavement missions committee and serve as Vice Chairman of the Pike County Board of Appeals. I also served as chairman and vice-chairman of the Pike County Republican Party from 2010-2018 and have worked on numerous boards over the past 20 years including the SPLOST committee, Pike Middle PTO officer and Slow Exposures. I promise integrity and I earnestly ask for your vote and support in electing me as your next Pike County Probate Judge on May 19, 2020. Click here for more.

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!

ATLANTA - HB 28 was passed last year in the Georgia Legislature. This will resulted in the appointment of a 5th Superior Court judge to the Griffin Judicial Circuit that is comprised of Pike, Spalding, Upson, and Fayette Counties. Click here for more.

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 - This Library Board Meeting was attended by Gillian Appleton (Chair), Joy Walker, Patty Talley, Anthony Vinson (Secretary), Kathy Zellner, Library Manager Rosemary Bunn, and FRRLS Representative Natalie Marshall. Patsy Page came in after the meeting started. Attempted to bring Cynthia in by phone. Visitors: Rhonda Morgan, Becky Watts. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: I have not attended Library Board meetings for some time--and it's a good thing! Read through this meeting to the note in blue and you will understand why. They are doing a great job!]

ZEBULON - With a comment from the public before the meeting and some discussion regarding legalities in the official meeting, the Pike County Board of Commissioners voted this morning to approve a resolution declaring Pike County as a Second Amendment Sanctuary County. The vote was approved with all five commissioners voting yes. 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. 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 - Dingers for Dee will be a day filled with fun and fellowship as baseball and softball players of all ages battle it out in a Homerun Derby at Pirates Stadium in Dee's honor. Vendors will circle the track with plenty of food and entertainment to keep everyone going strong throughout the day. Vendors spots are available and there will be no duplicates (contact Rachel McDaniel or Amber Shoemake for details). Be sure to purchase an event t-shirt and all proceeds from shirt sales will go to the family! Pre-order shirts by Jan. 31 to have them the day of the derby! Or shirts can be ordered the day of!

There will be five age categories for both baseball and softball athletes (6U, 10U, 14U, 18U and 19 and older) as well as men's softball. There are only 15 slots available per age group. Each player will get two minutes (and as many pitches as possible in that time) to hit as many homeruns as possible. The entry fee is $20 per player and in the first round only, homeruns can be purchased for $30. All batters 18 or under must wear batting helmets. Sponsors are being sought to support the costs involved in hosting the derby. Let's support Dee and her family as she fights! (contact Rachel McDaniel or Amber Shoemake for details on sponsors). Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Robert (Mack) Crawford stood before Judge Maureen Gottfried in the Superior Court of Pike County in order to agree to a plea in State of Georgia vs. Robert M. Crawford. Mack had been charged with one count of felony theft by taking and two felony counts of violation of oath of office by the state of Georgia. Without a plea agreement, this case would have gone to a jury trial on Monday. 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. 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! [Note from the Editor: This article was updated today with a note in blue to include information and a comment from Attorney General Chris Carr's Office.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on January 28, 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. [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.]

ZEBULON - We are accepting nominations for the 2020 Prayer Power Faith Award / Scholarship. Each year we award a graduating high school senior from Pike County, the Prayer Power Faith Award / Scholarship. They may be in public school, private school, or homeschool. They must have shown growth and maturity in their spiritual life during their four-year high school experience. Nominations must be received no later than April 1, 2020. You may obtain information and requirements at www.prayerpower4u.net, by email at prayerpower4u@bellsouth.net, or by mail at Prayer Power, PO Box 1263, Zebulon, GA 30295.

ZEBULON - Prayer Power is accepting nominations for the 2020 “Saints in Light Award” which is to be presented to a non-clergy individual serving in Pike County who has been a spiritually inspiring, motivating, and encouraging influence in the community, and who openly and with love works for the betterment of the community and the people they come in contact with. By reflecting the true meaning of love and service in the community, they inspire and empower others to do the same. Nominations must be received on the proper forms by the first day of April. You may obtain information and requirements at www.prayerpower4u.net, by email at prayerpower4u@bellsouth.net, or by mail at Prayer Power, PO Box 1263, Zebulon, GA 30295.

ZEBULON - HB 734 is entitled the "Ethics in Journalism Act" and is supposed to create journalism ethics board that will govern media entities throughout the state of Georgia. This letter basically walks through my reasons that the legislation is bad and encourages any who are already signed onto this legislation to walk away from it. This legislation is in clear violation of not one but two constitutions, and it deserves a very loud rebuke in the public square. Click here for more.

[Note from the Editor: This editorial was written last year and still stands against this terrible legislation that is in the hopper for this year. I sent my Entreaty for Common Sense every single co-sponsor on this legislation and did not receive even one response. You can monitor this legislation through Georgia General Assembly by clicking here.]

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.

ZEBULON - The Georgia Department of Transportation has announced it awarded contracts for five project in District 3 (West Central Georgia region). The project bids were received on Nov. 22 and the contracts awarded to the lowest qualified bidders on Dec. 6, 2019. C. W. Matthews Contracting Company of Marietta, Georgia will resurface Georgia 3/US 19 from Atwater Road in Upson County to just north of Georgia 7 in Spalding County for the amount of $13.9 million. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. The largest single investment contract awarded within this round was to the Georgia 3 resurfacing project in Pike, Spalding and Upson Counties within the West Central Georgia region. Information on schedules, lane closures and detours will be made available in advance of construction activities.

UPSON AND TAYLOR COUNTIES - On Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020 (weather permitting), road construction crews will start a project to mill and lay new asphalt on nearly 14 miles of US 19 / Georgia 3 in Taylor and Upson Counties, from the Flint River Bridge in Taylor County to Cook Road in Upson County. The project is scheduled to be active seven days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. each day, until Tuesday, Mar. 31, 2020. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN- This is the fourth in a series of articles about the Griffin Police Department and its interactions with the local media. It would be helpful for readers to read Parts I, II, and III prior to reading Part IV. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - This is the continuation of an in depth series investigating interactions between the Griffin Police Department and the media. It would be helpful for readers to read Parts I and II prior to reading Part III which is based on an interview of Chief Yates of the Griffin Police Department. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - Pike County Times had some issues receiving press releases from the Griffin Police Department (PD) earlier this year. In the course of trying to work with the PD to obtain these press releases by email, the public information officer (PIO) for the PD made a derogatory comment about a member of the local news media complaining of being treated unfairly. 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 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!

CONCORD - 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!

SJ Reeves Land Surveying is located at 11491 Highway 19 North in Zebulon. 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!

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!

WILLIAMSON - Has the recent rain made your driveway a mess? Do you need rock or sand for a foundation or other project around your home or barn? Call Brad Armistead at (678) 588-9465 and find out how easy it is to have a delivery made! Southern Rock, Sand, and Gravel is locally owned and operated. Click here for more.