ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 – 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.]

WILLIAMSON - Investigators have identified Darren Jenkins (aka Scoldy Montana) as being involved with the car theft yesterday in Williamson. Arrest warrants have been obtained for the charges of theft by taking motor vehicle and armed robbery. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Parks & Recreation Authority (PCPRA) will hold its regular meeting on December 17, 2018 at 6:00pm at the PCPRA Complex in Baseball Press Box on Twin Oaks Road. Chairman Ryan Landry will call the meeting to order. On the agenda is the following: Approval of the minutes for the November 13, 2018 regular monthly meeting, Treasurer Report - Kevin Teate, Director’s Report - Kevin Teate, Sports/Programs Report, Youth sports registration fee waiver request from Shelia Smith, Approve/Deny vendor & 3 year contract for Athletic Field Lawn Care from 2019 thru 2021 for fertilization and weed & ant control, Approve/Deny to change the payroll work week from Tuesday through Monday to Monday through Sunday at the request of the county, Donation to the Dylan Thomas Foundation, Approve/Deny baseball/softball fields’ infield lip removal project to be paid from Concession Funds, FY 2017/18 Audit Report, Park Master Plan Report, and Other Business. The public is welcome to attend this meeting.

ZEBULON - There will be a special called meeting of the J. Joel Edwards Public Library Board, Friday, December 21, 2018 at 4:30 p.m. at the J. Joel Edwards Library Meeting Room. The public is welcome to attend this meeting.

WILLIAMSON - An early morning report of a stolen car in Williamson on Vaughn Lane has lead to the arrest of Austin Brazel, 20 years of age, Rodney Miller, 19 years of age, Tristian Montfort, 21 years of age, and Travis Hoard, 22 years of age. Click here for more.

GRIFFIN - On December 13, just after 1130 hours, uniform patrol officers of the Griffin Police Department responded to the Dollar General (1019 Memorial Drive Griffin, Ga.) in reference to an armed robbery. Click here for more.

Jackie K. Cooper's 2 Minute Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. You can also view Jackie's Guide to the Movies 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.

WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Representatives Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.) and Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) and U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) and David Perdue (R-Ga.), applaud House and Senate passage of their bill to designate a United States Post Office in Columbus, Georgia, as the “Richard W. Williams, Jr., Chapter of the Triple Nickles (555th P.I.A.) Post Office.” Click here for more.

Mr. James Leon Mobley, age 65, of Concord, passed away December 11, 2018, at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

GRIFFIN - The GRIP has confirmed that an arrest has been made in the Feb. 19, 2018, hit and run that took the life of 37-year-old Shaun Wright. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Volunteer personnel from the Pike County Fire Department have been on the scene of several incidents since Sunday morning. Deputies and emergency personnel have been on the scene as well. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: If you would like to receive Breaking News Alerts when they go out--instead of several hours later or the next day, read the note below the article or ask me about when you see me! Thanks for supporting Pike County Times!]

Mr. Herschel Andrews, age 90, of Griffin, passed away December 11, 2018, at his residence. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

THOMASTON - The Georgia Department of Transportation has announced it awarded contracts for road improvements projects in Upson and Talbot Counties in November, 2018. Click here for more.

Mr. Julius Allen Stephens, age 61, of Thomaston, passed away December 11, 2018 at Providence Nursing Center. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

MEANSVILLE - At approximately 10:00 a.m. Sunday morning, PCFD personnel along with City of Meansville Fire Department responded to reported structure fire at 2565 Pine Valley Road, Meansville. Click here for more.

THOMASTON - Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) maintenance crews throughout north and central Georgia will brine-treat state highways and interstates tonight in anticipation of possible black ice conditions during the overnight hours. Within District 3, the Georgia DOT's west central region, nine counties will have state highways and interstates treated, starting at 7:00 p.m. Click here for more.

YATESVILLE - You can help make a difference this season by partnering with theHis Love Extended Christmas Dinner campaign sponsored by Reconciliation House Inc. (RHI). Beginning the week of Dec 21st through Christmas Day on the 25th, RHI is asking for volunteers to help with all stages of preparation to ensure many of Monroe County’s residents have a full holiday meal on the table. Click here for more.

LAGRANGE (From the District 4, Georgia Department of Public Health) - The Influenza-like illness (ILI) intensity indicator for Georgia during Week 48 was high = 8, on the scale of 1-10, and the Georgia ILI Geographical Dispersion was local. This is down from 9 last week. There have been 2 confirmed influenza-associated deaths in Georgia (both in the 65+ age range) and 111 influenza-associated hospitalizations in the eight county metro Atlanta area.

WASHINGTON DC - (United States Flags Should Remain at Half- Staff Until Sunset on December 30, 2018 in Honor of George H.W. Bush. There Has Been an additional Proclamation for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. United States Flags at Half-Staff Friday, December 7, 2018 in Honor of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.)

Today, we honor those who perished 77 years ago at Pearl Harbor, and we salute every veteran who served in World War II over the 4 years that followed that horrific attack.

On December 7, 1941, America was attacked without warning at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, by the air and naval forces of Imperial Japan. Just before 8:00 a.m., Japanese aircraft ripped through the sky, dropping bombs on ships of the United States Pacific Fleet and on nearby airfields and bases. The attack took the lives of more than 2,400 American service members and wounded another 1,100 American citizens. The brutal surprise attack halted only after nearly two hours of chaos, death, and destruction.

Despite the shock and confusion of the moment, American service members and first responders on the island of Oahu mounted an incredibly brave defense against insurmountable odds. American pilots took to the air to engage enemy aircraft, sailors took their battle stations, and medical personnel cared for the wounded. Many witnesses to the events of that day perished in the attacks, leaving countless acts of valor unrecorded. Nevertheless, 15 Medals of Honor were awarded - 10 of them posthumously - to United States Navy personnel for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.

Although the United States Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor was badly impaired, America did not falter. One day after the attacks, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt declared to the Congress: "No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory." And, in the weeks, months, and years that followed the brutal attack at Pearl Harbor, Americans united with a steadfast resolve to defend the freedoms upon which our great Nation was founded. Millions of brave men and women answered their country's call to service with unquestionable courage. These incredible patriots fought, bled, sacrificed, and ultimately triumphed for the cause of freedom.

We are blessed as a Nation to have as examples the incredible heroes of World War II, who fought so valiantly to preserve all that we hold dear. Earlier this year, I had the tremendous honor of meeting Mr. Ray Chavez, who was the oldest living Pearl Harbor veteran. Ray passed away only a few weeks ago at the incredible age of 106. But his legacy is forever etched into our country's rich history, along with the legacies of all our brave veterans. They tell of the mettle of the American spirit under fire and of the will of our people to stand up to any threat. The selfless bravery and dedication of these extraordinary Americans will never be forgotten.

Today, we remember all those killed on the island of Oahu on that fateful Sunday morning in 1941, and we honor the American patriots of the Greatest Generation who laid down their lives in the battles of World War II. America is forever blessed to have strong men and women with exceptional courage who are willing and able to step forward to defend our homeland and our liberty.

The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December 7 of each year as "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2018, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. I encourage all Americans to observe this solemn day of remembrance and to honor our military, past and present, with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I urge all Federal agencies and interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff in honor of those American patriots who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.
DONALD J. TRUMP

GRIFFIN - The Sellers Law Firm is presenting Free Photos with Santa on Saturday, December 8, 2018 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Lowe's in Griffin. Bring your children to see Santa. They've been good this year, right?! Capture a Christmas memory!

ZEBULON - Monday morning, Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Michael Rogers picked three Pike County juries to resolve remaining cases on the trial calendar in front of the Honorable Christopher Edwards. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Moody-Daniel Funeral Home in Zebulon will be celebrating their third year assisting with “Operation Toy Soldier,” a holiday toy drive that gives back to the local community’s service men and women and their families. As a partner of Veterans' Funeral Care, Moody-Daniel Funeral Home supports Veterans and their families in any way possible to thank them for their service. Click here for more.

Mr. Jerry Lamar Corley, age 56, of Meansville, passed away December 6, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - The Run off for Secretary of State and Public Service Commission was held on Tuesday, December 4, 2018. According to the Secretary of State's website, here are the unofficial results from Tuesday's election. This also includes the election summary from Pike County. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Pike County Economic Development Director Ginny Blakeney advised today by email that the Zebulon Christmas Parade has been cancelled due to the weather forecast. "Saturday is a complete wash, which is our day to prepare for the event, and Sunday is now projected at a 90% chance of rain and very low temperatures. We are very sorry that the weather has affected the event, but we wanted to act in a timely manner for our vendors and parade participants to ensure that we could give proper notification," she wrote. "All of the event planners and coordinators have family engagements and holiday events starting the following week, so we will not reschedule the event. It feels as if we are "Cancelling Christmas" but please know that our hearts are broken to do so - we look forward to this event and invest a lot of time and preparation into it, and we are sad that we will not get celebrate this joyous time of year with our community."

She ended by saying, "I am so appreciative of the response that we received this year from our vendors, parade participants, and spectators. All of you are what make this day so special and sweet. Let us all begin praying for better weather at the 2019 event! I hope that everyone enjoys the holiday season and that you are able to spend cherished time with family and friends celebrating such a wonderful occasion as the birth of Christ. Please continue to follow our Facebook page, "Hometown Holidays and Events - Pike County, GA" for posts and updates about other upcoming festivals and events that you may be able to attend or participate in. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas (despite being the bearer of bad news)."

ZEBULON - On Sunday, 11 November 2018, the Pike County American Legion Family hosted the Pike County Veterans Day Program and 100th Anniversary Celebration of the WWI Armistice at the south side of the Pike County Courthouse Square in Zebulon, Georgia. The Pike County Middle School 8th Grade Band played beautifully, and 12 year old Sara Jones read her essay, "What Veterans Day Means to Me.” Click here for more.

ATLANTA – On Tuesday, December 4, 2018, the polls will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM in all 159 counties for Election Day with two state-wide run-off elections and various local elections on the ballot. Secretary of State Robyn A. Crittenden encourages all eligible voters who have not already voted to make their voices heard in these important contests. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Someone was towing a 10X12 metal building Saturday evening and it fell off of the trailer in the middle of New Hope Road. Click here for more.

Jackie K. Cooper's 2 Minute Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. You can also view Jackie's Guide to the Movies 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. James Allen “Jimmy” Parks, age 72, of Zebulon, passed away December 1, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - The Development Authority of Pike County will meet on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 in the Development Authority Conference Room at 8:00 AM until finished for the purpose of General Business. The public is invited to attend.

Mr. Leroy John Versemann, age 69, passed away November 30, 2018, 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!

Mr. James "Jimmy" Parks, age 69, passed away December 1, 2018, at Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

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!

Mrs. Hazel Harden, age 99, of Williamson, passed away December 1, 2018, at her residence. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Mr. Gary Keith “Hollywood” Redding, age 58, of Griffin, passed away November 27, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

WASHINGTON DC - It is my sorrowful duty to announce officially the death of George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first President of the United States, on November 30, 2018.

President Bush led a great American life, one that combined and personified two of our Nation's greatest virtues: an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to public service. Our country will greatly miss his inspiring example.

On the day he turned 18, 6 months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, George H.W. Bush volunteered for combat duty in the Second World War. The youngest aviator in United States naval history at the time, he flew 58 combat missions, including one in which, after taking enemy fire, he parachuted from his burning plane into the Pacific Ocean. After the war, he returned home and started a business. In his words, "the big thing" he learned from this endeavor was "the satisfaction of creating jobs."

The same unselfish spirit that motivated his business pursuits later inspired him to resume the public service he began as a young man. First, as a member of Congress, then as Ambassador to the United Nations, Chief of the United States Liaison Office in China, Director of Central Intelligence, Vice President, and finally President of the United States, George H.W. Bush guided our Nation through the Cold War, to its peaceful and victorious end, and into the decades of prosperity that have followed. Through sound judgment, practical wisdom, and steady leadership, President Bush made safer the second half of a tumultuous and dangerous century.

Even with all he accomplished in service to our Nation, President Bush remained humble. He never believed that government - even when under his own leadership - could be the source of our Nation's strength or its greatness. America, he rightly told us, is illuminated by "a thousand points of light," "ethnic, religious, social, business, labor union, neighborhood, regional and other organizations, all of them varied, voluntary and unique" in which Americans serve Americans to build and maintain the greatest Nation on the face of the Earth. President Bush recognized that these communities of people are the true source of America's strength and vitality.

It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of one of America's greatest points of light, the death of President George H.W. Bush.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, in honor and tribute to the memory of President George H.W. Bush, and as an expression of public sorrow, do hereby direct that the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on 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 for a period of 30 days from the day of his death. I also direct that, for the same length of time, the representatives of the United States in foreign countries shall make similar arrangements for the display of the flag at half staff over their embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

I hereby order that suitable honors be rendered by units of the Armed Forces under orders of the Secretary of Defense.

I do further appoint December 5, 2018, as a National Day of Mourning throughout the United States. I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President George H.W. Bush. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.

DONALD J. TRUMP

ZEBULON - Pike County Times received a letter by certified mail on November 21, 2018 from Stephen G. Waldrop of Waldrop and Trite, LLC, the attorney of George Randall Veal, in regard to Mr. Veal's arrest by the Pike County Sheriff's Office in March of this year. The letter requested that a "favorable retraction be printed on the front page with regards to the story you printed on March 20, 2018" and stated that the allegations made against Mr. Veal were "false." Click here for more.

CONCORD - While awaiting the special guest of honor, gather around crackling fireboxes with friends old and new, pony rides for the children or visit our Christmas Bazaar to pick up those last minute Christmas gifts! Sing along with live entertainment! Santa will arrive at 6:30 p.m. to visit with children in the Strickland Building. Santa’s photographer will be on site to capture that special moment with your child! In order to be courteous to all Santa’s visitors and keep the line flowing, pictures with Santa will be limited to the professional photographers options of 1) a 4x6 for $7, 2) a digital photo (email) for $10 or 3) a maximum of 2 photos taken with your device for a $5 donation to the city to support future Lighting of Concord events. Yes, the Grinch will be a featured guest as well and visitors are invited to dress up like characters from The Grinch Who Stole Christmas!

ZEBULON - As many of you may be aware the Boy Scouts of America has two major fundraisers each year: Camp Cards in the spring and Popcorn in the fall. With each of these fund raisers these BSA Scouts are learning several skills without even realizing it including learning how to interact with strangers, how to accept rejection, and how to become self-sufficient in earning their own way financially in their scouting career. Click here for more.

ATLANTA (November 28, 2018) - The Georgia General Assembly was ordered by Governor Deal to convene for a Special Legislative Session beginning on Tuesday, November 13, 2018. The purpose of the special session was to allocate money from the fiscal year 2019 amended budget to go towards relief efforts in southwest Georgia, where Hurricane Michael devastated acres of land and infrastructure. The Senate convened for a five-day special session, adjourning Sine Die on Saturday, November 17th. Click here for more.

Mr. John Monroe Adams, age 60, formerly of Dublin, passed away November 29, 2018, at Eternal Hope Hospice in Griffin. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Roy Collier Harkness, Jr., 90, of Zebulon, Georgia, passed from this life into the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at 10:34 p.m. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Mr. Michael Heald “Mike” Bowser, Sr., age 69, of Williamson, formerly of Morrow, passed away November 27, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 27, 2018 – 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, November 14, 2018 – 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.

GRIFFIN - The 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Georgia National Guard has been activated to go to Afghanistan. Included in that unit are one member of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office and one member from Pike County Public Works. Click here for more.

Mr. Jerry Allen Matthews, age 55, of Brentwood, TN, passed away November 20, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

Mr. Austin Madison “Red” Huggins, Jr., age 84, of Williamson, passed away November 22, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ZEBULON - It's that time of year again. Time for family, friends, football, kids everywhere, and great food. In this time of Thanksgiving, let's not forget to give thanks for our many blessings including public safety personnel, those in hospitals, and soldiers who cannot be home to celebrate like we are today. Let's reminisce with those who are missing loved ones this year and Thanksgiving just isn't the same too. It's a time of love and sharing and making new memories as we live each day for itself. Happy Thanksgiving to you from Pike County Times!

Mr. Walter Ozzie Henning, Jr., age 65, of Williamson, passed away November 18, 2018. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

On Monday, November 5, 2018, Beverly Rae Nebergall passed away at the age of 87. For more information about visitation and the service or sign the guestbook go to Moody-Daniel Funeral Home.

ATLANTA - (November 16, 2018) Today Georgia Secretary of State Robyn A. Crittenden certified the election results of the November 6, 2018 General Election. In accordance with judicial orders and state law, counties have submitted their certified election results.

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 21-2-499, after receipt of certified election results from all county election superintendents, the Secretary of State has tabulated, computed, canvassed, and certified the votes cast for all federal and state officers and questions voted for by voters of more than one county. Click here for more.

ATLANTA – (November 16, 2018) In order to ensure compliance with a federal court order, Georgia Secretary of State Robyn A. Crittenden required every county to review all rejected absentee by mail ballots to confirm that they had not been rejected solely due to an error or omission involving date of birth on the oath envelope. If any absentee ballots had, Secretary Crittenden directed county officials to count those ballots and re-certify their election results. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - On Monday, November 12, Bobby Bickley, the incoming county manager, was the guest speaker at the Pike County Republican Party meeting. Bobby and his wife Maryann met everyone and gave some insight to why county commissioners chose Bobby for this position in Pike County government. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - I attended the November 8, 2018 meeting of the J. Joel Edwards Public Library. Many Library Board members were present at the meeting as well as Library Manager Rosemary Bunn and the Flint River Regional Library Representative Natalie Marshall. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - It has been 12 years since I uploaded my first article about a Pike County Commission meeting on what began as a blog of sorts to watchdog how the commissioners were spending our money. Since then, my coverage has expanded to local, state, and sometimes even national news, and I have began selling advertising to help counter the monthly costs of upkeep as well as the time that I spend working on my newspaper. I have even added a way for subscribers to get breaking news alerts so you can get the breaking news articles before those articles hit my front page.

Working in politics is a joy for me most days, and I truly enjoy what I do here in Pike County. Thank you to my advertisers who help provide your news for free, thank you to those who make donations throughout the year, and thank you to my Breaking News Alerts subscribers. Thank you to everyone who has sent in an article or news tip through email, Facebook, phone, or text message as well. All of us working together is what makes this a community newspaper. Here's to another year! Thank you for allowing me to do what I love.

Jackie K. Cooper's 2 Minute Entertainment Rundown for this week can be found by clicking here. You can also view Jackie's Guide to the Movies 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 J. Joel Edwards Public Library in Zebulon appreciates its loyal patrons – those who return their checked out items in a timely manner, those who donate gently used books and DVDs for cataloguing or sale, those who attend library-sponsored events, and, yes, those who pay their fines in a hassle-free manner. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - On Sunday, 11 November 2018, the Pike County American Legion Family will be hosting the Pike County Veterans Day Program and 100th Anniversary Celebration of the WWI Armistice at the south side of the Pike County Courthouse Square in Zebulon, Georgia. The public is invited to attend this special event commencing at 2:00 p.m. Click here for more.

ATLANTA - In order to assist in the reporting of accurate information, Secretary of State Robyn Crittenden offers the following clarification:
- The time period to verify provisional ballots ended on Friday, November 9. See. O.C.G.A. 21-2-419(c). The only exception is provisional absentee ballots rejected due to a non-matched signature, which can be verified until county certification pursuant to a court order from District Judge Leigh Martin May.
- While state law requires counties to certify their election results no later than 5 PM Tuesday, over half of Georgia counties have already certified their results. Counties that have certified their results have uploaded all results, including provisional ballots, to the Secretary of State’s Election Night Reporting website. You can view the counties that have already certified in the Results by County tab of that site. You can view the number of provisional ballots that a county has accepted in the Contest Details. The site will continue to be updated as additional counties certify their results. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Investigators from the Pike County Sheriff's Office have arrested Justus Hughley, 22 years of age, for the charge of Computer Theft after a report of a fraudulent Go Fund Me account that was accepting money on behalf of the family of Dylan Thomas. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Major David Neal of the Pike County Sheriff's Office advised that they received a call about an individual in a vehicle pointing a handgun at occupants of another car on Highway 19 earlier today. Shortly before 7 p.m. tonight, deputies found the suspect's vehicle and located a pistol in the vehicle. Malcolm Henry, from Molena, is in jail for pointing a pistol at another. [Note from the Editor: Thank you to Kelly Herring for the tip to led to this article. Thank you to Major Neal for answering my request for information on this tonight.]

ZEBULON - Out of 12,212 voters in Pike County, 8,552 voters cast their ballots in this election. That is a phenomenal turnout of 70.03% in Pike County! There were 13 provisional ballots that could affect the final count on this election when the election is certified by the Secretary of State's Office next week. Click here for more.

ADDED 11.7.18 at 4:55 p.m. - SEE ARTICLE BELOW "Secretary of State Issues Tabulation Update" FOR UPDATE ON COUNTING ELECTION BALLOTS

BARNESVILLE - On Thursday, November 1, 2018 at approximately 12 p.m. a security officer at Gordon State College advised Gordon State College police officers that a student had seen a tall black male with a weapon on campus. The male was also reportedly wearing a Jason type Halloween mask. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners deliberated for a little over an hour and has made a decision on a new County Manager for Pike County. The applicants were Ron E. Alexander, the Community Development/Planning & Zoning Director for Garden City, and James Robert (Bobby) Bickley, formerly of SouthCrest Bank in Thomaston. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 8:30 a.m. in the Conference Room at 331 Thomaston Street in Zebulon. The only item on the agenda is as follows: "Interim County Manager requests Executive Session for discussion or deliberation on the appointment, employment, compensation, hiring, disciplinary action or dismissal, or periodic evaluation or rating of a county officer or employee as provided in O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(6) germane to the County Manager position." [Note from the Editor: This meeting is complete.] Click here for more.

ZEBULON - ZEBULON - Two candidates for County Manager were named at the September 25, 2018 meeting of the Pike County Board of Commissioners. A month later, both candidates had withdrawn their names to work in neighboring counties. The Pike County Board of Commissioners will meet tomorrow to discuss county manager candidates and name the finalist for our county. Here is an indepth introduction to our final two applicants. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Jared Busby has organized a benefit ride for the Thomas Family in honor of Dylan. Riders will meet at the Pike County Primary School located at 7218 US Hwy 19 in Zebulon on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 11 a.m. $25 per rider and $5 per passenger. Kick stands will go up at 12 p.m. for a 42 mile ride down Hwys 109, 18, Concord Road, Hwy 362, Williamson Road, Hwy 18 to 109 and back to Hwy 19 to the Primary School. The Pike County Sheriff's Office will provide an escort for the entire ride. #dylanstrong32

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 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 - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 30, 2018 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 announced two finalists for the office of County Manager of Pike County today. This is round number two of the search for County Manager. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Hurricane Michael hit the coast of Florida as a Category 4 hurricane that was almost a Category 5. It left a path of destruction in its wake as it churned its way across the Florida Panhandle, east across the state of Georgia, and finally went back out to sea. The devastation has left many without power and even homes to go back to. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This page was updated today (10.12.18) with additional ways to help out from relief items to going as part of the Chainsaw/Clean up Brigade.]

GRIFFIN - Spalding County Manager William P. Wilson Jr. announced today the appointment of Michelle Irizarry as Spalding County Assistant County Manager. The appointment, effective December 4, 2018, concludes an exhaustive search that identified several competitive and qualified candidates. Click here for more.

Thomaston - Aviano's has new owners, Danny and Carly Shumate, but the food has not changed. Danny has worked in the kitchen at Aviano's for 3+ years before buying the restaurant. "We use the same exact recipes that everyone has loved for the last 21 years," Danny said. "Pete and Toula still come in and help out and prep. We are still working together as a restaurant family to make this the best it can be. We look forward to serving you."

HAMPTON - Full Blown Firearms is moving to a store location at 1074 Bear Creek Blvd, Suite L in Hampton. Hours will be 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. Thank you to Full Blown Firearms for helping keep Pike County Times FREE to readers since 2015!

ZEBULON - The Pike County Commission is going back to the drawing board when it comes to County Manager candidates. Interim County Manager Rob Morton advised by phone that both candidates have withdrawn their applications here in Pike County. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - Two candidates for County Manager were named at the September 25, 2018 meeting of the Pike County Board of Commissioners. By this time next month, a new county manager could be attending meetings here in Pike County. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - “After careful deliberation, the Pike County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce that there are two finalists for consideration related to the position of County Manager for Pike County. Click here for more.

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at 6:30 PM 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.]

BARNESVILLE - Pastor Kevin is organizing an emergency First Response Team to begin restoration efforts in North Carolina. Monday, September 24 through Thursday, September 27, 2018. He will be accompanied by Tommy Truitt and others from our District. If you are interested in being a part of that First Response Team, contact Pastor Kevin ASAP. You also need to go on-line to https://www.ncm.org/florence and click on the “Volunteer” button. The process of registration is very easy. You can read more about efforts to help those in North Carolina by clicking here.

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!

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 8, 2018 – 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 Tuesday, July 31, 2018 – 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 Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 5:00 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 - Please welcome Pike County Times' newest advertiser The Sellers Law Firm located at 100 South Hill Street Ste 502 in Griffin, Georgia. Specialties there include Criminal Defense/DUI, Family Law, Personal Injury, Simple Wills, Social Security Disability and Worker's Compensation. Free Consulation. Please tell them thank you for supporting Pike County Times! Click here for more.

ZEBULON - [Note from the Editor: This is from the Post Agenda from the Board of Commissioners.] The Pike County Board of Commissioners held its Special Called Meeting on Tuesday, July 17, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. in the Conference Room of the Board of Commissioners Office, 331 Thomaston Street, Zebulon. Chairman Briar Johnson convened the meeting and Commissioners Tim Daniel, Tim Guy, Tommy Powers and James Jenkins attended. County Attorney Rob Morton and County Clerk Jo Ann Wrye were also present. An Executive Session was held for "discussion or deliberation on the appointment, employment, compensation, hiring, disciplinary action or dismissal, or periodic evaluation or rating of a county officer or employee as provided in O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(6) germane to the Board of Commissioners office." The meeting was adjourned with no further motions at 6:22 p.m.

ZEBULON - An Executive Session was held at the beginning of the Pike County Commission Meeting today. It began like an ordinary meeting, but the announcement at the end of the meeting today was a shock for those sitting the audience. Chairman Johnson announced that County Manager Hanson has accepted another position and will be leaving as Pike County Manager in four weeks. Click here for more. [Note from the Editor: This article has been updated to include CM Hanson's new employment.]

ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, July 11, 2018 – 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 - Pike County Times has followed the May 23, 2017 complaint of inappropriate contact between Brian Crow, who is no longer a teacher in the Pike County School System, and a female student since the story became public in May. Crow has since resigned from the Pike County School System, the case was presented to the Grand Jury and No Billed due to a lack of cooperation from the alleged victim in this case according to the District Attorney, and the case has gone before the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) to determine whether there would be sanctions against Crow's teaching certification. The PSC met this month and made a decision on this case. Click here for more.

JAPAN - A contract was issued for bid out of the NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka, Site Singapore (FLCYS) for Archeological Survey and Remains Recovery Work in Northeast India late last year that was awarded in May of 2017. The solicitation was specifically to follow up on recovery of remains of WWII service members from sites in Northeast India. [Note from the Editor: This article came about because I have been covering the recovery of 1st Lt. Robert Eugene Oxford from the WWII crash site for "Hot as Hell" in India for the past 10 years.] 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!

WILLIAMSON - 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. 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.