Two house fires, zero injuries

Two houses sustained some fire damage recently, but were not a total loss due to quick thinking of the people who reported the fire and quick response by fire fighters, according to Putnam County Fire Chief Thomas McClain. A driver traveling along U.S. Hwy.

Grand Pearls

Members of Putnam Chapter #34 Order of the Eastern Star received the honor of Grand Pearl during the 122nd Grand Session, PHA, held in Augusta, Georgia June 14-17, 2022.

Ambulance patient killed in crash with log truck

An elderly woman lost her life when the ambulance that was taking her to the hospital turned in front of a logging truck around 3 p.m. Monday, July 25. Betty Gentry, 79, of Eatonton, succumbed to her injuries at Putnam General Hospital, according to Eatonton Police Sgt. Harold “Buddy” Bowman.

School system safety director, candidate arrested for DUI

Kenneth Austin Vance, who is the school safety director for Putnam County Charter School System and also a Republican candidate for the Georgia House District 133 seat, was arrested last month for DUI.

New laws set stage for contentious start to school year

A trio of Georgia education laws that took effect a few weeks ago have set the stage for a possibly contentious opening to Georgia’s school year next month. The laws address how teachers talk about potentially divisive topics in the classroom and parental control over education.

Men of Lake Oconee becomes Neighbors Helping Neighbors

The non-profit organization Men of Lake Oconee has announced it is changing its name after less than two years. President Bob Massey told members at a meeting Tuesday night the group quickly discovered that the success of the program includes the assistance and support of women.

Babysitter shoots at vehicle thief; suspect nabbed

An Eatonton man with an extensive criminal history is once again in jail after he tried to bust into the home of a woman who was babysitting young children and then stole her vehicle.

Art Camp

Archa Raiyani, Riley Simmons, Lucy Swymer, camp instructor Linda Erskine and Ellie Wofford work on their paper collages/sandwiches during Art Camp held at The Plaza Arts Center. SEE FULL COVERAGE >> PAGE C6 LENA HENSLEY/Staff

City Council refuses Jimmy Davis Park

In a tersely written resolution, the Eatonton City Council has made it absolutely clear that they do not want Jimmy Davis Park. The park is located inside the city limits and originally belonged to the city.

Bookkeeper in prison for more than $150K in fraud

A Putnam County woman who stole almost $157,000 from small, local businesses was sentenced to prison by a federal judge July 12 and ordered to pay restitution to the victims. Alicia Merritt, 48, of Eatonton, admitted to stealing $156,734.