In his remarks, U.S. Army Sgt. and Vietnam veteran Rudy Hicks urged attendees to remember both the sacrifices made by America’s military and the responsibilities of those still living. IAN TOCHER/Staff

In his remarks, U.S. Army Sgt. and Vietnam veteran Rudy Hicks urged attendees to remember both the sacrifices made by America’s military and the responsibilities of those still living. IAN TOCHER/Staff

Memorial Day: Ceremony recognizes Putnam County’s fallen veterans

Ian Tocher
On Monday morning, under gray skies in downtown Eatonton, veterans, families, and community members gathered at Putnam County Wall of Honor Park to honor local service members who never returned home. The annual Memorial Day ceremony featured remarks from U.S. Army Sgt. Rudy Hicks, a Vietnam…

Short; not so sweet

News Staff
Dear editor,I am totally opposed to the rock quarry here in Putnam County. I live on Lake Sinclair and do not want any more noise or anything to poison our air, land, or water from runoff into the lake, or additional truck traffic. I could go on and on, but you get the point.Best regards, Tim Moore…
Steve Hersey

Steve Hersey

Hersey, Ray, Olson win GOP nominations for BOC

Josh Lurie
The Putnam County Board of Commissioners was set to have a new look in 2027, regardless of the election, as Chairman Bill Sharp and Commissioner Jeff Wooten chose not to run for re-election.After the results were counted Tuesday night, the three candidates who campaigned together for change will…
Corey A. Hickey

Corey A. Hickey

Judge sentences Putnam man to five life sentences, plus 220 years

Lynn Hobbs
When Corey Andrew Hickey was arrested in October, Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills described the criminal acts he was accused of as “vile and disgusting.”A Putnam County jury and a Superior Court judge appeared to share that assessment. On Thursday, May 21, the 38-year-old Hickey was found guilty…
Ronda Rich/Columnist

Ronda Rich/Columnist

Rich: World War II heroes

Ronda Rich
Tink and I were at lunch recently with a friend who began talking about his grandfather’s bravery and the medals he earned during World War II.When the war began, his grandfather was initially deferred because he was in college. A few months later, he was drafted. Once in service, he requested…
Eatonton Messenger/File Photo

Eatonton Messenger/File Photo

Summer at The Plaza: creativity, performance, and fun for young artists

News Staff
Families looking for enriching summer activities for children and teens will find a wide range of creative opportunities at The Plaza Arts Center. From theater to visual arts camps, this summer’s activities are designed to help students explore artistic talents, build confidence, and connect…
Putnam County’s RJ Hines (second from left) recently signed to continue his football career at Cumberland University. CONTRIBUTED

Putnam County’s RJ Hines (second from left) recently signed to continue his football career at Cumberland University. CONTRIBUTED

Putnam’s Hines signs with familiar program

Lance McCurley
RJ Hines has had a busy few weeks.This past Friday, he walked at Putnam County High School’s graduation ceremony, and a few weeks earlier, he made his college decision, signing to play football at Cumberland University, an NAIA program.Hines will play defensive back for the Phoenix and plans to…

Hope for local elections to stay local

News Staff
Dear editor,I wish to extend my sincerest gratitude to all those who supported and voted for me in the primary election. It was a very close election.I have been involved in local political campaigns for over 20 years and have never witnessed so much outside money trying to influence our local…

Thanks for political support

News Staff
Dear editor and residents of Putnam County, As a proud resident of Putnam County for 23 years, I am incredibly humbled and profoundly grateful for the trust you have placed in me as your Republican nominee for District 4 Commissioner.This victory does not belong to me — it belongs to“us.”It belongs…

Considering quarry risks vs. benefits

News Staff
Dear editor,The important question for Putnam County citizens regarding the quarry is, “What is the upshot? What are the risks vs. benefits?Reduction in size does nothing to reduce the dangers. Silica dust causes cancer and can travel up to 18 miles in the air from the quarry site. Reduction in…
Eatonton Messenger/File Photo

Eatonton Messenger/File Photo

Putnam BOE addresses school staffing and budget updates

Alivia Blanton
The Putnam County Board of Education convened on May 11 to discuss mental health resources, staffing updates, and budget planning.After Board Chair Dr. Steven Weiner called the meeting to order, Putnam County Schools Superintendent Derick Austin reviewed minutes from the April 13 work session and…
The Eatonton Messenger e-Edition
Miriam Hatcher expresses concern about a proposed rock quarry coming to Putnam County. IAN TOCHER/Staff

Miriam Hatcher expresses concern about a proposed rock quarry coming to Putnam County. IAN TOCHER/Staff

Eatonton city council hears quarry concerns

Ian Tocher
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
The Eatonton City Council moved quickly through a varied agenda Monday evening that included public...
A chain hangs from the overturned Nissan as Hurt’s Towing prepares to remove it from the woods at the end of East Sumter Street Monday. LYNN HOBBS/Staff

A chain hangs from the overturned Nissan as Hurt’s Towing prepares to remove it from the woods at the end of East Sumter Street Monday. LYNN HOBBS/Staff

Stolen car crashes while fleeing police

Lynn Hobbs
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
A man accused of fleeing authorities after allegedly committing a crime in Washington County hit a...
In his remarks, U.S. Army Sgt. and Vietnam veteran Rudy Hicks urged attendees to remember both the sacrifices made by America’s military and the responsibilities of those still living. IAN TOCHER/Staff

In his remarks, U.S. Army Sgt. and Vietnam veteran Rudy Hicks urged attendees to remember both the sacrifices made by America’s military and the responsibilities of those still living. IAN TOCHER/Staff

Memorial Day: Ceremony recognizes Putnam County’s fallen veterans

Thursday, May 28, 2026

On Monday morning, under gray skies in downtown Eatonton, veterans, families, and community members gathered at Putnam County Wall of Honor Park to honor local service members who never returned home. The annual Memorial Day ceremony featured remarks from U.S. Army Sgt.

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Georgia Benjamin-Smith called recent Putnam High grad Amario up from the audience to share a little of his story as he prepares for college life. IAN TOCHER/Staff

Georgia Benjamin-Smith called recent Putnam High grad Amario up from the audience to share a little of his story as he prepares for college life. IAN TOCHER/Staff

MAC banquet celebrates community service

Ian Tocher
Thursday, May 28, 2026
Approximately 100 community members gathered Saturday evening in the banquet hall of Eatonton First...
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Obituaries 

Eatonton Messenger/File Photo

Eatonton Messenger/File Photo

Dr. Carlisle Driggers

News Staff
Thursday, May 28, 2026
Dr. Benjamin Carlisle Driggers, Jr., went home to meet his Savior on Monday, May 18, 2026.
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