January

Jan. 4

Rep. Sam Watson, a Moultrie Republican; Mary Weaver-Anderson, a Cairo Democrat; and John H. Monds, a Cairo Libertarian, qualified to replace state Sen. Dean Burke, who resigned Dec. 22 to take a job with the state Department of Community Health. Watson resigned his state House seat to run for the Senate, and Colquitt County Administrator Chas Cannon was the only candidate to qualify for Watson’s seat. … A 21-year-old Tifton man died after sustaining injuries in an ATV accident Dec. 27 on the outskirts of Colquitt County. … Colquitt County School Superintendent Ben Wiggins was selected as one of 25 Superintendents to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association. … Prom night is one of many memorable moments in a student’s high school career. The Breathe Organization is promising the community just that as it announces a Night to Shine will return to Moultrie in February.

In its final tune-up before the Jan. 7 Region 1-7A duals, the Colquitt County wrestling team turned in its most impressive performance of the season. The Packers got first-place finishes from Eric Henson, Randy Smith and Michael Bledsoe to win the Raider Invitational held Dec. 28-29 at West Laurens High School. … Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame member Ed Pilcher, who led Thomas County Central to five state championships in the 1990s, died on Thursday, Dec. 29, at his home in Nashville. Pilcher had a record of 250-161-1 over his 30-year career, including a 169-54-0 record during his 17 years as the head of the Yellow Jackets program.

Jan. 11

Renovations and demolitions to Willie J. Williams Middle School and C.A. Gray Junior High School could start within the next five years if voters approve the Colquitt County School Districts’ upcoming ESPLOST. … 73-year-old Brenda Smith has lived at her Funston residence 42 years, until fire destroyed it Dec. 18. … Moultrie businessman Dennis W. Futch announced Jan. 5 that he plans to run for the Georgia State Republican Party Chairman position.

Five members of Colquitt County’s 2022 state semifinalist football team have been named to the Georgia High School Football Daily’s All-State team, including a pair who made the first team. Wide receiver Ny Carr and safety Jack Luttrell were selected for the Class 7A first team and quarterback Neko Fann, running back Charlie Pace and tight end Landen Thomas received honorable mention.

Jan. 18

Moultrie residents should remain cautious and practice washing their hands and other illness-preventative measures as COVID-19 cases still linger, according to local medical officials. Last October, Colquitt County began to see a rise in cases of the three viral illnesses – COVID-19, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial viral infections (RSV). … North Florida — South Georgia Veterans Health System and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association partnered with the Dream Foundation to help terminally ill veteran David Chapman III visit war memorials in Washington, D.C. … The City of Moultrie broke ground Jan. 12 on improvements to a parking lot in the downtown area. … A Berlin woman was charged after allegedly embezzling $28,000 due to “falling in hard times,” according to a Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office investigator. … An abandoned house on Fourth Street Southeast was destroyed New Year’s Day in a structure fire. Six days later a house on Third Street Southeast was damaged after an apparent arson, according to fire officials. … A Moultrie man is accused of vandalizing and attempting to commit arson at Culbertson Head Start’s cafeteria and kitchen Jan. 7, according to law enforcement. … Moultrie City Manager Pete Dillard introduced Bonnie Kudela as the city’s new clerk during the Moultrie City Council’s Jan. 3 meeting. Her addition to the city staff follows previous City Clerk Tina Coleman’s promotion to director of finance in October. … A Colquitt County elderly woman was scammed out of more than $10,000 by a trio posing as the “Publishers Clearing House,” according to the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office. … Colquitt County deputies have one person in custody and are looking for a second after the couple allegedly furnished their home with items stolen from a nearby storage facility.

The Moultrie YMCA gymnastics parents club hosted its 18th annual Red, White and You Invitational with 159 girls competing from Georgia and Florida. Several gymnasts have qualified for the state meet already. … The Colquitt County wrestling team was unable to advance at the Class 7A duals prelims on Saturday at West Forsyth, but the Packers did win their match against Peachtree Ridge. The Packers, the No. 4 seed from Region 1, fell to West Forsyth, the No. 1 team from Region 6, 48-24 in their first match.

Jan. 25

For those who were concerned about how Gibson Stuckey has reacted since the July 23 accident in which he suffered a significant spinal cord injury, get this: In early November, just three weeks after being released from The Shepherd Center in Atlanta, the Colquitt County 14-year-old competed in the Colquitt County Art Center’s half-marathon, completing the entire 13.1-mile course in his wheelchair. … Former Hope House volunteer Leslee Adams is leading the effort to build Mustard Seed Cottage, a residence for expecting mothers whose home lives are unstable. … A Colquitt County man was injured during a shooting in Ellenton Jan. 17, sheriff’s officials said. Further investigation led to warrants against a 19-year-old suspect. … Colquitt County Hospital Authority member and former chairman Maureen Yearta, Ed.D., was elected to the Board of Trustees of the Georgia Hospital Association. … Colquitt Regional Medical Center announced in January that Dr. Lisa Rudolph-Watson has been named medical director of the newly opened Colquitt Regional Geropsychiatric Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit. … A Facebook post by Moultrie police brought in a tip that led them to arrest two suspects in a Jan. 17 stabbing incident on Farmers Market Boulevard. … A late January disruption in Windstream internet and phone services hit many residents and businesses, but it also hit the county’s E-911 center. The center was never fully offline, Director Theresa Warburg said, but its operations were affected. Windstream blamed the outage on both storm damage to its network in Griffin and on a fiber cut north of Atlanta. … Ja’Naisha McIntosh of Okapilco Elementary School overcame all her opponents in 11 rounds to win the Colquitt County District Spelling Bee Jan. 13 at Southern Regional Technical College.

Former Colquitt County and Valdosta head football coach Rush Propst, who has 295 career victories while leading high school programs in Alabama and Georgia, was introduced as the associate head coach and athletic director at Coosa Christian in Gadsden, Ala. … After a year coaching in Cobb County, Reggie Stancil is heading back to his familiar Gwinnett County after being named head football coach at Dacula. … The Colquitt County wrestling team rode first-place finishes from Eric Henson, Michael Bledsoe and Russell Flowers to finish sixth in the fourth annual George Mulligan Memorial held Jan. 21 at Bay High School in Panama City, Fla. … Colquitt County’s Jacob Brightwell and Hardin Roberts placed fourth in the first GHSA bass fishing tournament of the season held Jan. 21 and the pair have qualified for the state championship.

February

Feb. 1

The Georgia State Patrol is investigating two fatal wrecks that both occurred Jan. 25. One accident occurred when a small SUV struck the back of a farm tractor in the rain near Hartsfield. The other took place during a police chase in Moultrie that night. … A Colquitt County judge has set bond at $150,000 for each of two murder suspects. Bond hearings were held Jan. 25 for Tony Bernard Wilson and Katelyn Lillie Marie Ireland, accused in two unrelated homicides late in 2022. … Bart Davis of Colquitt County was named the Georgia Farmer of the Year during the University of Georgia 2023 Georgia Ag Forecast event Jan. 27. … Moultrie Police Chief Sean Ladson had little trouble picking his Officer of the Year when the Moultrie Rotary Club asked who they could honor in their annual recognition program. MPD Officer Nathaniel Hendry was shot in the line of duty in August but remained at his position to provide cover for other officers until backup arrived. … The United Way of Colquitt County kickstarted the new year by moving into a new location and exceeding its fundraising goal of $585,000. As of Jan. 9 the organization had moved to Room 203 of the Southwest Community Action Council.

The 2022 state semifinalist and Region 1-7A champion Colquitt County football team was honored by an appreciative community Jan. 29 at the program’s annual banquet at the high school cafeteria. … The Moultrie YMCA gymnastics team competed in the Gym Force Classic Invitational held at Tully Gymnasium on the Florida State University campus. There were four MG records broken and some gymnasts broke their own personal records.

Feb. 8

Few Colquitt County residents spoke during a public hearing Feb. 6 about the Board of Education’s facility update proposals. The proposals include renovation plans for C.A. Gray Junior High School, Willie J. Williams Middle School and Colquitt County High School. The district will also move forward on the construction of a new Colquitt County Canning Plant and Ag Facility. … Community members from across the county gathered Feb. 1 to commemorate the opening of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Behavioral Health Center. … The Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce is planning four new awards when it holds its 113th annual meeting in March. … Colquitt County Schools officials are planning an election for March 21 in which voters will decide the fate of a new Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. … A suspect surrendered peacefully after a stand-off Feb. 2 in the 1000 block of Peachtree Street in Doerun, according to the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office. … Southern Regional Technical College announced strong student enrollment growth for the Spring 2023 semester. … Three juveniles and a 17-year-old are charged in the burglary of Peking House, 611 S. Veterans Parkway, on Jan. 30. … Not many people can say they were published authors while in fourth grade, but De’Arri Williams of the G.E.A.R. Center can. … The Colquitt County High School Robotics Team brought home a first-place trophy after dominating their opponents during a regional competition.

Colquitt County divers Bo Bridges and Ruth Anne McCranie won their second-straight Georgia High School Association Class 7A 1-meter state championships Feb. 7 at the Westminster Schools in Atlanta. Colquitt also had two state runners-up when Tuck Gregory placed second in the boys event and Shannon Icard came in right behind McCranie in the girls championship.

Feb. 15

The victim of a Feb. 7 shooting died from his injuries two days later. Zykeivon Jalin Taylor Porter, 19, was shot in the 1400 block of South Main Street, police said. Jason Doan Ho, also 19, was charged with felony murder and other charges. … The Colquitt County School district honored retired choir teacher Bill Caldwell Feb. 11 by naming the stage at Withers Auditorium in his honor. … Heritage Church of Moultrie was booming while kids and adults with special needs danced the night away at its Night to Shine dance Feb. 10. … The Kiwanis Club of Moultrie revealed the Colquitt County School District’s STAR Student and Teacher at its Feb. 9 meeting. STAR Student Jonah Hagin chose his mother, Susan Hagin, as his STAR teacher. … Norman Park’s effort to improve water service will require the removal of antennas atop the town’s water tower that provide communications to all first responders in that part of the county. … On Feb. 5, PCOM’s Brothers in Medicine facilitated “Barbershop Talk,” a conversation-style discussion panel specifically geared towards providing African American and other minority men an opportunity to discuss topics such as emotional health, manhood and fatherhood in a relaxed, casual environment. … An individual and two teams from the Colquitt County FFA placed in state events in February. The Agricultural Sales Team placed second and the Floriculture Team placed third in their respective competitions, and Dawson Hurst placed sixth in the State Lawnmower Operations and Maintenance CDE. … Fannie Mae Fulton of Omega celebrated her 100th birthday Feb. 13. Fulton herself was unable to attend the celebration held at 11 a.m. at Moultrie’s Hampton Inn, a family member said, but dignitaries sent congratulations to her family. … Following a thorough evaluation and review of alerting systems, Colquitt County has implemented CodeRED, a high-speed emergency mass notification service provided by OnSolve, LLC.

Colquitt County’s Russell Flowers and JaQuavian Daniels won Sectional championships Feb. 11 and went on to lead a group of five Packers to the following week’s state championships in Macon. … Colquitt County sophomore Hannah Huante earned bronze medals in the 100-yard breaststroke and the 50-yard freestyle in the Region 1-7A swim meet held Jan. 26 in Douglas. The finishes earned Huante honorable mention on the All-Region 1-7A swimming team.

Feb. 22

After 30 years of service to the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, H. William Craver, III, DO, FACOS, will retire effective April 30. Craver has served as dean and chief academic officer of PCOM South Georgia for the last three years and said that establishing PCOM South Georgia is one of his greatest professional points of pride. … Colquitt County High School is seeking a recent college graduate to serve as its college adviser and provide the school with a “college-going culture.” … The City of Moultrie and Colquitt County have received funds from a multi-state settlement in a lawsuit against several major pharmaceutical companies for their role in the opioid crisis.

Colquitt County’s JaQuavian Daniels reached the championship round at the GHSA’s Class 7A state wrestling tournament on Feb. 18, but came up just short of winning a title against a high school All-American. … Assistant coach Da’Nas Andrews, seventh grade life science teacher at Willie J. Williams Middle School, is completing his first year working with the varsity Colquitt County boys basketball team, though he has been bleeding gold and black for most of his life. … Pickleball players from all over Georgia and Florida will be congregating at the Moultrie YMCA on Feb. 25-26 for the second annual South Georgia Classic tournament.

The Bible contains 66 books, 929 chapters and 31,102 verses — 783,137 words, if you’re using the King James version. Now multiply all that times 1,000 to know how much the Rev. Shelvie Summerlin will have read when he hits his goal later this year.

March

March 1

Courtney Azar, a battalion chief with the Moultrie Fire Department has been chosen as the new director of the Humane Society of Moultrie and Colquitt County. … The Moultrie Housing Authority was recently awarded more than $1 million to fund its property improvement plans, but the authority is facing another challenge to getting the projects done: Getting bids for them. … Colquitt County School District is the latest recipient of a large shipment of Lysol Wipes from Frontline Impact Project. The donation is valued at $142,500 and contains 40,000 packs of wipes. … Byron Mejia, 32, of Colquitt County, entered a guilty plea Thursday in Colquitt County Superior Court and was sentenced to 20 years for a 2020 aggravated assault case.

Some 200 young divers — including about 40 representing Moss Farms Diving — will take to the boards the first week of March in the annual Moose Moss Invitational. … The Colquitt County girls basketball team’s only senior, Carliss Johnson, wraps up her four-year career as the fourth-highest scorer in Lady Packers history with 1,387 points. … The South Georgia Classic pickleball tournament held Feb. 25-26 at the Moultrie YMCA drew 150 players. … The Colquitt County middle school boys golf team won the season-opening Baby Packer Invitational in sudden death Feb. 23 at Sunset Country Club. … Colquitt County’s Stan Luttrell, in his first year in charge of the Packers weight room, has been named the Georgia Coach of the Year by the National High School Strength Coaches Association.

March 8

Colquitt County School District is one of several school systems across the country experiencing long-lasting effects from the national teacher shortage. … A ribbon cutting March 7 marked the opening of a new cemetery in Moultrie. Northwest Memorial Gardens is located at 1212 Northside Drive. … A Colquitt County jury took about an hour Tuesday to find Brian Scott Collins guilty as a party to a crime in an assault case from 2019. … On March 3, a Norman Park police officer saw a truck that had been reported stolen. When the ensuing chase ended, a Norman Park man was facing multiple charges. … The Moultrie Service League launched its much anticipated coffee table book “Moultrie Masterpieces: A Local Art Collection” during a reception held Feb. 26 at the Arts Center of Moultrie. … The Moultrie Observer was recognized with one award in the 2022 Best of CNHI journalism awards. Observer Editor Kevin C. Hall was named Designer of the Year in Division III, which includes the company’s smallest newspapers. In addition, Moultrie Scene magazine, which has won Magazine of the Year honors the previous two years, was a finalist in that category this year. It lost to Cullman Magazine in Cullman, Ala.

Led by five outstanding veteran girl divers who finished in the top 12 in points, Moss Farms won the women’s team title and led the local team to a second-place overall finish in the Moose Moss Invitational. … The Colquitt County School System has added another opportunity for its female students to participate in a competitive sport. The school board on Feb. 27 approved the addition of flag football to its roster of sports. Kirk Woodall will be the coach of the first team, which will begin play this fall. … Despite missing six games early in the season because of a serious ankle injury, Colquitt County’s Carliss Johnson bounced back to perform at a high level and has been named the Region 1-7A girls Offensive Player of the Year. … The Moultrie YMCA gymnastics team broke 21 team records while competing in the recent Rose City Invitational held at the Butler Mason YMCA in Thomasville, Ga. … Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority recently hired Jason Goldman-Petri as tennis director to grow their program by offering lessons and organizing tournaments throughout the year.

March 15

The Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office assisted in a multi-agency operation that targeted online child predators in surrounding counties. Four male suspects were arrested over a three-day period beginning March 2. … Two influential Moultrie women have been named to the National Register of Women in American History. The John Benning Chapter National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution, based in Moultrie, held a ceremony at the Moultrie Federated Woman’s Clubhouse March 9 recognizing Myrtle NeSmith Lofton and June DeEtta Aderhold Maule’s nominations. … A ministry that has been in the works since late 2020 is about to open its doors. Crossroads for Her, 1614 Second Ave. S.E., held a ribbon cutting March 7 to mark the center’s opening, and it will welcome the community at an open house March 19. … A new scholarship opportunity for Colquitt County High School agricultural students was announced by Mike Gay, a class of 1970 alumnus, who named it in honor of teachers Richard “Dickie” Coleman and William “Bill” Yearta.

Not only was Andy Blanton playing in soggy, rainy conditions in the final round of the 68th Pot o’ Gold Pro-am at Sunset Country Club, he bogeyed the first two holes on his home course. But he rallied, buoyed by an eagle on his second-to-last hole, to shoot a 3-under 69 for a three-day 11-under-par 205 to claim the event’s low amateur honors for the third time. … Former Brunswick News sports editor Murray Poole was presented the J.B. Hawkins Humanitarian Award Feb. 25 at the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame induction banquet at the Macon City Auditorium. Poole, a 1960 Moultrie High School graduate, was recognized for his 54 years of covering sports in the state of Georgia for The Brunswick News and Bulldawg Illustrated.

The Arts Center of Moultrie and Sowega Council on Aging are working to turn a pilot project into a long-term partnership that will help meet the needs of senior citizens in Colquitt County.

March 22

Colquitt County voters cast ballots on a sales tax referendum March 21 and during a three-week early voting period. The Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax passed with 1,055 votes in favor and 164 opposed. … Whether you’re searching for local mental health organizations or resources to work against underage drinking and substance abuse, STEP Up Colquitt has a place for you. … The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced March 17 that remains found near Omega in 2020 had been identified as Crystal Hendrix, who was reported missing April 25, 2013. … PCOM South Georgia celebrated its first-ever Match Day as members of its first graduating class of physicians learned which residency programs they matched with and in which specialty they will spend their next three to five years. … A group of Colquitt County High School students gained and honed skills in the Project Purpose GET2Work Boot Camp, held in partnership with Southern Regional Technical College, the Moultrie Chamber of Commerce, and the Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority.

Asher Fountain, from Moultrie’s South Georgia Barbell, swept the boys U13 division in weightlifting with three gold medals at the 2023 Arnold Sports Festival, hosted by the Greater Columbus Convention Center in early March. Also competing in the festival from South Georgia Barbell were Neil Fountain, Gunner Griffin, Emma Meads, Elizah Demott, Deb Woods and Deborah Fountain.

March 29

Ninth grader Kalia Register’s perseverance and growth through life-altering hardships has led her to be named the Boys & Girls Club of Moultrie-Colquitt County’s 2023 Youth of the Year. … Bobby Ruis, Funston city councilman and former water superintendent announced his retirement, although he’ll continue to serve on the city council. The city honored him with a reception in March. … Kim Blackstock, a Tifton woman who works for Southern Care Hospice in Moultrie and volunteers with the Alzheimer’s Association, returned March 21 from meeting with staff of Rep. Austin Scott and Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock to encourage them to push for a new Alzheimer’s drug to be covered by Medicare. … John Benning Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, began its annual observance of Vietnam War Veterans Day by presenting the DAR Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award to Sgt. Major Thomas R. Davis, U.S. Army, Retired. … The Middle South Georgia Soil and Water Conservation District recognized Summerlin & Sons Farms as Colquitt County’s Conservationist of the Year during the group’s Conservationist of the Year Banquet held March 16 at The Fitzgerald Pillars in Fitzgerald.

Colquitt County’s Carson Tyler scored 99 points on his fifth dive and went on to win the platform diving title at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships March 25 in Minneapolis.

April

April 5

The Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce presented an expanded slate of awards March 30. Mark Fleetwood was named Man of the Year, Jean Eaton Gay was named Woman of the Year, and Larry Sloan was named Agribusiness Person of the Year. Four new awards were also presented: Colquitt County Rock Star — Small Business of the Year, Mike Wilson Plumbing Company; Partners in Progress Award, Ameris Bank and its Market President Dave Buckridge; Committed to Colquitt County, Lazarus department store; and Heart of Colquitt County, Hero House, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Colquitt County. … Postal clerk Ellen Whitaker retired after more than 42 years with the Postal Service, almost 40 years of that in Colquitt County. … Southern Regional Technical College President Jim Glass has announced that Dr. Victor Burke will serve as vice president for academic affairs of the college as of April 2023. SRTC’s former VPAA, Dr. Ron O’Meara, has accepted the title of SRTC’s vice president for economic development, a position previously held by the late Dennis Lee. … Withers Auditorium should receive equipment upgrades and the CCHS Young Farmers program should receive a new tractor in the near future following the Colquitt County School District Board of Education’s approval on March 27. … Two Tift County men have been arrested in connection with the March 19 shooting of an Omega man in Hazlehurst. … PCOM South Georgia’s first class of students, who started in 2019, have all matched with residency programs after graduation. … A City of Moultrie public works crew found what appeared to be human remains along a drain ditch on 11th Street Southwest. Moultrie police requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation assist in the case. … Phoebe and Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC) have formalized a partnership aimed at addressing the region’s critical nursing shortage by boosting the number of nursing students at the college and opening new training opportunities for those students at Phoebe.

After winning their last two games of the 2023 Region 1-7A season, the Colquitt County boys varsity soccer team took first place after an undefeated season. They will be going into the state tournament as the top seed from the region. … The Colquitt County boys golf team continued its strong 2023 season by winning its own Packer Invitational by 8 shots on April 1 at Sunset Country Club. … Former Colquitt County head football coach Rush Propst was named the new leader of the Pell City High School program in Alabama. … The Colquitt County High School hosted the Bautista Martial Arts Battle of the Warriors tournament April 1 where students from Tifton, Valdosta and Moultrie ranging from 4 years old and up gathered to compete. Those who competed from Colquitt County brought in a combined total of over 70 medals. … Four Moss Farms divers earned Junior Nationals berths by taking first-place finishes at the Y Nationals at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center in March. Luke Hernandez and Elli-Reese Niday won on all three boards; Ruth Anne McCranie took the gold medal on 3-meter; and Austin Taylor won on platform. … Three South Georgia Barbell athletes from Moultrie competed in the age 35-plus Masters Nationals weightlifting tournament held at the Valley Forge Casino in Valley Forge, Pa. Getting a personal record in both events, Ian Smith lifted 106 kilograms (233.69 pounds) in the snatch and 154 kilograms (339.5 pounds) in the clean and jerk for a total of 260 kilograms (573.2 pounds) giving him the necessary qualifications for Masters Pan Ams. Though they both had already qualified for Masters Pan Ams, Deb Woods and Deborah Fountain also competed.

The C.A. Gray Junior High School reading bowl team excelled during the most challenging competition of the season in Gainesville March 14. Tomecon, the culminating event for participants of the Tome Society, is held on the campus of the University of North Georgia each year. … Jared Lee Collum of Moultrie, Georgia, is the recipient of the Spring 2023 President’s Award for Academic Excellence for the Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration at Valdosta State University.

April 12

The Southern Arts Music Ensemble, founded in 1995, will salute its originator, the late Michael Ryce, during a concert April 15 at the Arts Center of Moultrie. … The Moultrie-Colquitt County Boys and Girls Club “Family Fun Cookout” had a major turnout April 7 as kids competed in an Easter egg hunt, played in an inflatable bounce house and participated in games with their families. … The Georgia General Assembly has replaced a law that endangered funding for state-sponsored charter schools, including Coastal Plains Education Charter High School, which serves students in Colquitt County. … A Tift County man, who was charged last month in a Hazlehurst shooting, has been charged in Colquitt County following child sexual misconduct allegations, according to authorities. … Intrie Capital broke ground on its new brewery project, Bandwagon Brewing Company, April 1, at 33 W. Central Ave. in Downtown Moultrie. … Harry Thompson, a Colquitt County native, was recently named the vice president of the Georgia Cattleman’s Association Region 14.

Jay Ward has a challenging task ahead of him. After clocking his thousand hours as a Colquitt County High School Packer (2016-2019) and Louisiana State University Tiger (20192023), Ward announced his entry in the 2023 NFL Draft last December and participated in the NFL Combine held March 3. Now, Ward’s only task remaining is to sit around and wait while his agent Kevin Conner, CEO and President of Universal Sport and Entertainment Management LLC, advocates on his behalf to help him reach his ultimate goal of signing with one of the 32 NFL teams. … Carliss Johnson ends her Lady Packer basketball career as an honorable mention for the 2022-23 Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) 7A All State Basketball Team.

A J.M. Odom Elementary School student has won the District Poster Contest sponsored by the Middle South Georgia Soil and Water Conservation District. The poster by Natalia Hernandez, a third grader at the school near Berlin, will be submitted to compete in the State Poster Contest, according to a press release from the conservation district. … Denerick Simpson, a Moultrie native, is one of 13 inaugural recipients of a $25,000 scholarship through the Chick-fil-A Community Scholars Program.

April 19

Amy Johnson, the City of Moultrie’s downtown economic development and public relations director, said the 19th annual Spring Fling and Backyard BBQ Festival was the largest ever. … A group of local Christians has created a safe space for people seeking fellowship and devotional time with their weekly meetings. The gathering known as “Prayer in the Parking Lot” began about two years ago with Justin Murphy, the owner and founder of J & J Roofing and Construction, as an outlet for his employees. … A Norman Park Elementary School teacher resigned March 24, one day after she was charged with drug offenses. … Investigators with the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Moultrie resident that a Cobb County woman said had been stalking her periodically over the past eight years. … Colquitt County residents assisted law enforcement this week in a foot chase near a local retail store, according to an incident report. A sheriff’s office official later said officers always appreciate residents’ help, but in that particular incident the deputies temporarily quit the chase out of concerns for the civilians’ safety.

Moultrie native Ja’Quain “Jay” Blakely is finishing his first year with the Orlando Guardians of the XFL. … Moultrie’s Cavin Hall shot a 4-over-par 148 to win the boys 12-13 age group in the Southeastern Junior Golf Tour’s Sunset Country Club Junior Classic held April 15-16 at Sunset. … The Colquitt County Spring Special Olympics had over 360 athletes and unified partners participating in its local games and more than 150 student volunteers helping run events and helping out at Olympics Town March 31. … Both of Colquitt County’s tennis teams finished fourth in the Region 1-7A tournament at Camden County and will be on the road for the start of the state tournament.

Gracie White, a biology major from Moultrie, was recognized as the top student in Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College’s School of Arts and Sciences. … The Tyron Spearman Agricultural Scholarship was awarded the first time during the Spring 2023 semester to William “Trace” Lamberth, a freshman crop production major from Sale City.

April 26

Dozens of residents attended the Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Eggs & Issues conversation. … Tommie Beth Willis, president of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce, will leave that position to become regional director of a nonprofit lending organization that is expanding into South Georgia. … Elizabeth Huckaby was named the Colquitt County School District’s Employee of the Year during its BRAVO ceremony April 18. … Colquitt Regional announced that gynecologic oncologist Margarett Ellison, MD, MHA, FACOG, FACS, has joined Edwards Cancer Center and will begin seeing patients May 1. … The Moultrie-Colquitt County Humane Society is working to reorganize its facility operations after the board agreed to implement a 30-day stray hold policy. … Students in grades 4-9 at Colquitt Christian Academy presented self-conducted science experiments at the first CCA Science Fair on April 18.

After five years of being the Colquitt County High School baseball student manager, senior Olivia Morse is forced to close that chapter in her story as the 2022-2023 season completes. … For the first time, the Colquitt County bass fishing program will send three of its two-man teams to compete for a state championship. … Colquitt County second baseman Neko Fann and pitcher Mason Moore have been named to the All-Region 1-7A baseball first team and relief pitcher Kale Hopper has received the Academic Player of the the Year Award. Moore also was named to the All-Region second team as an outfielder. Joining him on the second team are first baseman Jake Walker, left fielder Landon Griffin, pitcher Christian Hill and catcher Hayden Hembree.

A University of Georgia professor with Moultrie ties has received the university’s top public service award. Dr. Doris Miller, professor and associate director of State Governmental Relations for the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine, received the 2023 Walter Barnard Hill Fellow Award April 17.

May

May 3

First National Bank hosted the annual Women in Workforce luncheon April 28 at First Baptist Church for any women in the community who wanted to attend. The luncheon centered around the key speaker, Vera Stewart of VeryVera Cookbooks and the VeryVera Show, and two local speakers. … The Colquitt County Career Achievement Award was presented May 9 to F. Blanton Bessinger, MD, MBA, a respected physician who was born in South Carolina but grew up in Moultrie. … Local law enforcement and crime victim advocates gathered May 2 to fellowship with crime victims for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. … Tommy Thornton, a Moultrie native now living in California, was recently recognized as a Top-5 finalist for the 2023 Technology Marketing Toolkit Better Your Best Competition. Thornton is CEO of Automates, a national leader in IT managed services. … Colquitt County Board of Education member Trudie M. Hill, a retired educator, has been selected to serve on the 2023 Georgia School Boards Association Governmental Operations Committee. … The Moultrie chapters of the American Legion and Masonic Lodge held their third annual Poker Run June 3 with proceeds benefiting the American Legion, other veterans groups, the Moultrie Masonic Lodge and other local charities. … Colquitt Regional Medical Center recently received its 16th “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit upholding the standard of patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. … Eyvone’s Porch In-Centive Incorporated (EPIC) is partnering with local leaders and organizations to provide an upcoming clinic to Moultrie residents offering resources to assist with life planning. EPIC is a non-profit, community- based, youth-driven mentoring project designed to advocate, motivate and accentuate children aged 5 to 18 founded by Carol Simpson. The charity values the humanities and anything to help make life better for community members, Simpson said. … Sunset Elementary student Nathan Grady Handfield is a regional winner in the Young Georgia Authors Writing Competition. … The Moultrie City Council has voted to remap the city’s voting districts in response to population changes noted by the 2020 Census. … The Moultrie Police Department has issued a BOLO — a Be On the Look Out notice — for three male suspects accused of using counterfeit money. … The City of Moultrie has recently received a high-bond rating from a private banking company. S& P Global, a private banking company headquartered in Manhattan, NewYork, assigned an “AA-” rating to the City of Moultrie based on its existing revenue bonds.

Dr. Frederick Powell of Moultrie was among 30,000 people who ran in the 127th annual Boston Marathon April 17, on the 10th anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombing. … After 27 consecutive years, head soccer coach Jimbo Jarvis was officially retired as one of the longest running Colquitt County High School varsity coaches in history. … Former Colquitt County High and LSU defensive back Jay Ward was taken in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He was the 134th player selected.

May 10

A Moultrie man died of a self-inflicted gunshot May 4 after he killed his mother, grandmother and an assistant manager at McDonald’s in Moultrie, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said as it continued its investigation into the deaths. The GBI identified the suspected shooter as Kentavious White, a 26-year-old Moultrie, Georgia man. On May 6, community members held a prayer gathering at the Colquitt County Courthouse Square to pray for healing in the community. … Fifty-three students prepared to make history May 25 when they would become the first doctors of osteopathic medicine to graduate from PCOM South Georgia, which opened its doors in Moultrie in the fall of 2019 as the only medical school in Southwest Georgia. … George Wallace, 46, of Moultrie, was one of five people who died in an automobile crash May 6 in Lubbock, Texas. … John Bridwell, 44, of Moultrie, died May 7 following a single-vehicle ATV accident in Thomas County. … A year of career exploration and skills preparation activities culminated in a job fair attended by more than a hundred Colquitt County High School students. … A “mini-roundabout” project the Georgia Department of Transportation planned for South Main Street has been paused, but the Moultrie City Council has decided to move forward on two others. … CCHS hosted its second annual Georgia Future Educators Signing Day May 9 to celebrate students who’ve chosen to pursue teaching as their careers. The cafeteria was full of students, teachers and family members who supported their signee throughout their high school career. … The John Benning Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, presented Ellen Alderman with the Excellence in Historic Preservation Award in recognition of the restoration and preservation of the Chapel at Sundown Farms. The award was presented at the chapter’s Historic Preservation Luncheon with Georgia State Society NSDAR regent Betty Harrah as the guest speaker.

Norm Joyner, acting COO at the Moultrie YMCA, will be inducted into the YMCA Hall of Fame July 10 in Atlanta. … The turnout for the first tryouts for Colquitt County’s new flag football program on May 15 is expected to be so large that head coach Kirk Woodall has had to enlist some help from fellow coaches of other sports. Woodall said 105 had signed up as of the preceding Friday and more could show up for the five days of spring practices. … Colquitt County brothers Austin and Logan Paradice have earned All-America honors with fourth-place finishes in USA Wrestling’s U.S. Open Championships. … The 2023 Ms. Health and Fitness contest is currently underway, and Moultrie native Sherry Evans is in the running. … Among the eight teams participating in the Relay for Life on May 5, the event raised almost $37,000 for the American Cancer Society. … There were 112 pickleball players registered for the tournament from all different skill levels and divisions in the YMCA Smash Out CF Tournament May 6 and 7; Moultrie residents won 29 medals in the competition.

May 17

Dr. Robert Lloyd became interim dean of PCOM South Georgia in Moultrie on May 1 following the retirement of Dr. William Craver on April 30. … The Moultrie-Colquitt County Humane Society is slowly decreasing its intake numbers but keeps experiencing hardships. … On May 2, Moultrie Rotary Club President Julian Griner opened the organization’s third annual “Salute to Service” ceremony recognizing Colquitt County High School students who will enter the military following graduation in the upcoming weeks. … On April 26, PCOM South Georgia mentors spent their last day in a celebration with their mentees at C.A. Gray Junior High School. … Medical officials warn local residents that “COVID-19 hasn’t gone away,” as a global organization declares May 11 the end of the public health emergency.

Moss Farms Diving was the first place overall team, boys team and girls team at USA Diving’s Junior Region 3 Championships held May 4-7 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. But more importantly, the team was able to ensure that 25 of its divers will advance to compete in the Zone B Championships to be held June 16-18 at the Rosen Aquatic Center in Orlando. … The Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority, in partnership with the Colquitt County Cycling Club, hosted its inaugural Bike Rodeo at the Goff Complex, and MCCPRA Director Maggie Davidson said the event went “really well.” … Saying he wants to be closer to his home in Moultrie, Kevin Giddens has resigned from his job as an associate director of the Georgia High School Association.

Hope House CEO Katrina Bivins announced her retirement in May. … Sunset Elementary student Nathan Grady Handfield received Honorable Mention in the state competition for Young Georgia Authors. … Jared Lee Collum of Moultrie is the recipient of the 2022-2023 Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration Outstanding Student Award at Valdosta State University. Collum was recognized during VSU’s annual Academic Honors Program on April 27.

May 24

GEAR Site Coordinator Kristyn Nelms performed the Heimlich maneuver to save a fifth-grade student who was choking in the school lunchroom. … The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation recently awarded Mark and Connie Fleetwood of Moultrie with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for their tens of thousands of hours of unpaid acts of volunteer service benefitting others. … Colquitt County residents got a preview of the Georgia Tandem Rally, which hit Thomasville May 18. Twenty-five teams of tandem bicyclists arrived in Moultrie May 15 for a “pre-tour,” Ride Director Roger Strauss said. … Staff of Colquitt County government have been working behind the scenes for months to lay the groundwork for a major renovation at the Colquitt County Jail. Discussions at a county budget meeting May 18 touched upon some of their struggles. … Two major subdivisions will soon expand within city limits following the Moultrie City Council’s approval May 16. … The Moultrie Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority was awarded a $1.8 million grant by Gov. Brian P. Kemp May 18. The money will be used to improve facilities at the William Bryant Park complex. … Jeff Tucker, who is an HVAC contractor in Moultrie, has been nominated for the cover of Muscle and Fitness Magazine, but the only way for him to win is from votes from the public. … An article in the April issue of Vegetable Growers News profiled Chill C Farms in Colquitt County.

May 31

On May 25, 53 osteopathic medicine students and seven master of science degree program in biomedical sciences students walked across the stage to graduate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine’s South Georgia campus. … Sedrick Demetrius Moore, 48, has been in prison since his conviction in February 2002 for a rape that was committed in 1993, but in May a judge granted Moore a new trial. … It’s been ten years since Alaina Riley was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Now she’s paving a path for others while advocating for Type 1 diabetics. … Colquitt Regional Medical Center recently announced the opening of its new six-bed inpatient pediatric unit. … Colquitt County native Kathryn Maxwell was honored as Georgia’s Most Outstanding AmeriCorps Member for her work with the Cook County 4-H Program. … Colquitt County Board of Education members approved a proposed tentative budget for the upcoming academic year May 29. It includes a significant increase in spending, but most of that increase will be covered by an increase in state funding. … Mental health organizations and representatives made several connections to Moultrie and Colquitt County faith leaders during the We 4-C Healing luncheon May 25. … Jane Cagle Simpson received the Evelyn King Vereen Service Award during the Arts Center of Moultrie’s annual State of the Arts meeting. Simpson served as curator, program director and executive director for a total of more than 30 years, but the award recognized her for teaching classes, serving on the acquisition committee and serving as a historical resource for the staff, all after she retired from the Arts Center.

Carlos Bautista has taken the position of Colquitt County High School Lady Packers varsity soccer head coach for the 2023-24 season. … A new way to achieve a full body strength workout under 30 minutes has recently come to the Moultrie YMCA.

June

June 7

A longtime Moultrie pastor and leader in local education and health care died May 25 in Montgomery, Ala. The funeral service for the Rev. Alfred Jones will be held Monday, June 5, 2023 at 2 p.m. at Heritage Church in Moultrie. … A woman and man have sustained injuries following a shooting over the Memorial Day weekend, authorities said. … Camp Invention, a one-week STEAM-based day camp, kicked off June 5 at the Colquitt County Achievement Center with 96 campers. … The Serenity House celebrated its 21st anniversary by honoring its executive director, Haley Clark, and hearing an abuse survivor’s testimony. … Community leaders and college representatives gathered May 24, the day before commencement, for an awards reception at PCOM South Georgia to honor graduating students, including those in the campus’ first doctor of osteopathic medicine class. … Students within the Colquitt County School District and from neighboring school systems gathered June 5 to explore the cyber security field during the second Colquitt County High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC CyberCamp. … Sen. Sam Watson of Moultrie has been named to a Senate committee studying the Local Option Sales Tax. … The Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office is working to provide an additional resource to local residents with troubled youth. The Youth Intervention Program is to be under the supervision of Cpl. Caitlyn Blakely and is intended for children ages 10 to 17.

Head coach Kirk Woodall is preparing his team for the inaugural season of the CCHS flag football program. “Fast, focus, fun,” Woodall said. “That’s what we are trying to do this year. The game is fast so the girls will have to learn speed. There are a lot of rules and techniques to learn in a short timeframe, so they have to focus. And mostly, I just want it to be fun for everybody.” … Miller Tompkins won the 10th Man award and Most Valuable Player award and Kale Hopper earned the Angie Davis Memorial Scholarship at the Colquitt County High School baseball team’s annual banquet.

With violin music, candles, flowers and speeches, PCOM South Georgia osteopathic medicine and biomedical sciences students recognized the lives and selfless contributions made by 12 people who donated their bodies to science. Family members of the donors were invited to the service.

June 14

For over 20 years, Lamar and Valerie Burkett have given a home to numerous children with nowhere else to go. Lamar Burkett is the current pastor of Bridge Creek Primitive Baptist Church. He and his wife Valerie have lived in Colquitt County since the early 2000s. Their journey with foster parenting began shortly after their move from Florida. … The Moultrie Observer was named one of the top newspapers in Georgia Friday evening at the Georgia Press Association’s annual banquet. The Observer received first place honors in the General Excellence category for weekly newspapers with a circulation between 2,000 and 3,799. … A Colquitt County jury took about half an hour to find a former Willie J. Williams Middle School coach guilty on two of four charges leveled against him. Nicholas Edge, 45, of Moultrie, was convicted of sexual contact by employee or agent in the first degree and of sexual battery against a child under 16. The jury found him innocent of child molestation and criminal attempt to entice a child for indecent purposes. … Southern Regional Technical College began the inaugural session of its Summer Law Enforcement Academy in early June. About 26 students, ages 16 to 19, were given a one-week opportunity to learn about criminal justice, network and interact with various agency professionals and gain certifications.

Before he was the Southeastern Conference Player of the Year and later the head coach of the University of Georgia football team, Ray Goff was an outstanding quarterback at Moultrie High School. And on June 9 he was honored for his prep accomplishments when he was selected for inclusion in the Georgia High School Football Hall of Fame. … Bryce Giddens was the center on the 2010 Colquitt County football team’s offensive line that helped lead the Packers to their first state championship game appearance in 16 years. Giddens, now in his second season as the Packers offensive line coach, says he believes the 2023 offensive line that is being built this summer, could be the 2010 group’s equal — or even better. … Forty-seven Colquitt County girls registered for the youth volleyball camp hosted by the Lady Packer volleyball program, held over the summer at Colquitt County High School. … A little over a year ago, Colin Kirkland accepted his first baseball head coaching job, taking over a Centennial High program that had gone a combined 18-38 over the previous two seasons. Twelve months later, the former Colquitt County infielder and son of former Packers coach Tony Kirkland had led the Knights to a school-record 29 wins, a Region 6-5A championship and a berth in the Final Four.

June 21

Intermittent storms have brought the threat of severe weather to Colquitt County every day for more than a week. Some days saw multiple rounds of storms while other days had little or no rain despite the forecast. The most serious storms to actually materialize were on June 14, when thousands of residents lost power and widespread damage was reported due to wind, hail and fallen trees. … On what would have been her 100th birthday, Willie Belle Irvin-Partridge, a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal recipient and member of the U.S. Army’s 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, was celebrated by several friends, family members, and city representatives in a June 16 ceremony at the Museum of Colquitt County History. … The Colquitt County Courthouse Square was full of Moultrians, vendors and performers Saturday as they all gathered to celebrate the annual Juneteenth holiday. … The Moultrie Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce held a luncheon to honor nurses and participants within the Farmworker Family Health Program. The Farmworker Family Health Program is celebrating its 30th anniversary, according to Dr. Judith Wold, the Emerita Clinical Professor and distinguished professor for Educational Leadership at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University. … A Norman Park teenager was transported by helicopter to a nearby hospital after a crash June 15 on Cool Springs Road that also injured two other people. … The John Benning Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution celebrated Flag Day June 14 with awards celebrating local flag displays and with a presentation about Betsy Ross. As part of the celebrations, Linda Jackson, chair of the chapter’s Flag of the United States Committee, presented a flag appreciation certificate to Hayden Gliemmo, business manager of Lasseter Motors in Moultrie, in honor of the 30-foot by 60-foot flag the business displays each day, and to Alisha Story for her creative presentation of stars and stripes using large round hay bales in addition to several other patriotic displays at her home on Georgia Highway 133 South.

Longtime community activist and Colquitt County football supporter David “Bull” Durham is taking over as president of the Packer Touchdown Club. … Calling it a bittersweet decision, John Fox is leaving Moss Farms Diving to become the head diving coach at Auburn. … Kyle Black, who has been choreographing professionally for over 10 years all over the United States, came to Colquitt County High School from June 12-14 to teach the Lady Packer competition cheerleading squad the routine they will compete with during the 2023 season. This year, the Lady Packers wanted a theme: a boxing match.Parishioners, family and friends of St. Mark’s Anglican Church in Moultrie gathered June 11 for a special service installing a new rector (senior pastor), the Rev. James Thomas.

June 28

The local healthcare field was not exempt from experiencing a workforce shortage, according to local healthcare officials. Colquitt Regional Medical Center CEO and President Jim Matney previously presented the hospital’s community update, which named the nurse staff shortage as its sole challenge within the healthcare workforce. … The City of Moultrie closed the intersection of Second Street and Fifth Avenue Southeast June 26 as construction began on a new roundabout. … Leslee Adams, director of Mustard Seed Cottage, called on Colquitt County residents to help raise money for the charity’s maternity supportive housing residence with a fundraising event at Surcheros Fresh Grill and “Dancing with the Moultrie Stars,” a show planned for August. … Two firefighters were injured on the scene of an abandoned structure fire June 20, fire officials said. … The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners approved a slate of proposals June 20, including a $25.5 million budget. … Seven Colquitt County School District schools were awarded $24,472 in grants of up to $4,000 per school to acquire mathematics tools and materials to support mathematics instruction, according to a press release from the district. The Opportunity Grants are from the Georgia Department of Education. … Eyvone’s Porch In-Centive – EPIC, by Carol Simpson, founder and president, and Bridges Solutions & Consulting, Laquita Smith Bridges, owner and operator, joined forces to commemorate the celebration of Juneteenth. The outdoor event was a day of commemoration and community involvement, organizers said in a press release.

July

July 5

A long-time, family-run funeral home, Cobb Funeral Chapel and Cobb Suncrest Memorial Gardens, was sold to Park Lawn Corporation, a Canadian-based business. Ellen Cobb-Robinson and Jamie Robinson, who have been managing the funeral home since the passing of founder Bobby Cobb, will continue to manage the business. … Amy Johnson, Downtown Economic Development and Public Relations director, received the Georgia Municipal Association’s Starr Award. The award is given to an individual who has made a significant contribution toward creating a unique and vibrant environment in the downtown area of a city in Georgia. … The Colquitt County Grand Jury issued true bill indictments to a father and son who were involved in a felony murder case in early 2022. … The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners held a meeting with representatives of local cities and authorities to plan for continuation of SPLOST ahead of a November vote. … Connie Fritz steps down from the Arts Center of Moultrie executive director position. … A marker is commissioned by Bill McLean and the John Benning Chapter NSDAR along with the City of Moultrie and the Colquitt County Commission to honor 62 pilots, who died at Spence in World War II.

The Colquitt County football team starts the 2023 ranked No. 20 in the Max-Preps Top 25. … One hundred twenty-eight golfers participated in the 26th Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, which was played at the Sunset Country Club. … The Colquitt County softball team won both of its games in the Vereen Midsummer Classic held June 27 and June 28 at the Magnolia Sports Classic. … The U14 Moultrie Soccer Academy’s boys team won first place in their division June 24 at the Sweet Feet 3V3 Tournament held at The Boys and Girls Club Sports Complex in Valdosta.

July 12

Jim Matney, president and CEO of Colquitt Regional Medical Center, is presented with the Georgia Hospital Association’s leadership award at its annual summer meeting. … The Colquitt County Board of Education names several new administrators including Katie Strickland, Allen Edwards, Michelle Daniels, Kristyn Nelms, Brian Beaty, Dr. Josh Purvis, and Jennifer Turnbull. … Brad E. Barber, president & CEO of First National Bank, Bainbridge, has been elected to serve as chairman-elect of the Georgia Bankers Association. … The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) honored Korean War veterans July 3 during the local chapter’s Independence Day celebration.

Titans Swimming Academy (TSA) earned a first place finish June 24 in the 2023 GRPA ABC District 3 swim meet. … Needmore Speedway ran a special event honoring the late Michael “Big Mike” Davis, a Moultrie native who was a lover of dirt track racing. … Softball teams take wins in first day of Vereen Midsummer Classic, defeating Thomas County Central 10-5 and Lanier County 5-4. … The Lady Packers basketball program hosts a two-day team camp featuring 10 schools the first day and 12 the second.

July 19

The 50th Regiment Marching Band prepared its 2023-2024 “Artificial Intelligence” show at band camp. … The Arts Center of Moultrie was awarded a Project Grant by Georgia Council for the Arts to fund outreach projects. … Colquitt Regional awarded the 26 recipients of its healthcare scholarships at the seventh annual Colquitt Regional Medical Foundation Scholarship Luncheon.

Former Packer athlete, Mack Crosby, returned to fill the role of catching coach for 9th-12th graders beginning with the 2023 season. … Cleve Edwards, the AD for Colquitt County High School, shed some light on just what exactly it is he focuses on through the year to help the athletic program be successful. … The Moultrie YMCA announces that they are introducing club soccer to their list of programs with plans to start in the fall. … Former Packer, Ty Megahee, was named assistant baseball coach at Florida State University. … Ex-Packers starting quarterback Xavier Williams transfers to UCF to play in the fall.

July 26

A group of seven PCOM South Georgia doctor of osteopathic medicine students serve on a two-week medical mission trip in Cambodia. The students participated in medical internships in three hospitals. … Few Colquitt County residents had much to say about the Colquitt County School District’s branding guide proposal during the Board of Education’s meeting. … Representatives of two local organizations share plans for construction projects they’d do if a sales tax extension is approved by voters. … The Moultrie Police Department hosts its annual backpack giveaway drive with each student receiving a backpack filled with school supplies. … Downtown Moultrie launches its Christmas in July initiative, a week-long initiative for community members to share their thoughts on the city’s Christmas celebrations. … The Agricultural Education and Communication Department at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is named best in Georgia. … Dr. Maureen Yearta stepped down as the Moultrie-Colquitt County Humane Society Board of Directors Chairperson during the monthly board meeting.

Three tennis players representing the Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority won championships at the GRPA state tennis tournament held July 19 in Bainbridge. The winners included Bailee Fountain, Odessa Dixon and Candace Moses. … The Colquitt County High School varsity competitive cheer squad, along with the varsity and JV spirit squads, hosted their annual mini cheer camp fundraiser. … Moultrie-Colquitt County’s Parks and Recreation Authority’s Shaw Gym on Fifth Avenue Northwest was the location for the Ball 4 It All two-day basketball tournament.August

Aug. 2

The Moultrie City Council announces qualifying dates in late August for the City of Moultrie mayor and three council seats. … Southern Regional Technical College holds a commencement ceremony at SRTC-Bainbridge for spring and summer graduates. … An education staffing service looks to employ support staff throughout the Colquitt County School District campuses. … Hope House announces new CEO Anna Chappell will replace Katrina Bivins.

Fans to get preview of the Colquitt County Packers football team with a game against the Peach County Trojans. … Kickoff Coaches meeting is held ahead of 2023-24 school year with everyone involved in the sports programs from both the middle school and high school in attendance. … New video scoreboard to be in place on Tom White Field at Mack Tharpe Stadium this season. … For the second year in a row, ElliReese Niday of Moss Farms Diving takes the gold medal on the 3-meter and 1-meter springboards and on platform at USA Diving’s Junior National Championships.

Aug. 9

The Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority holds groundbreaking ceremony at William Bryant Complex to acknowledge the history of the complex as well as explain the renovations they plan with a newly awarded grant. … Colquitt Regional Medical Center sees a small uptick in cases as national COVID-19 hospitalizations have surged. … Strike Zone 10, a bowling alley entertainment business, opens its doors. … The Arts Center of Moultrie Board of Directors announces Jenny Dell as the part-time interim director.

The Pack wins the annual preseason scrimmage on Tom White Field at Mack Tharpe Stadium, 40-10 over Peach County. … Four Packers named to All-State team including Landen Thomas, Ny Carr, Brett Fitzgerald and Tyshon Reed Jr. … Columbus golf-team of Adam Cooper and Jared Garrity win 69th Ramsey Pidcock Invitational. … Colquitt County’s varsity softball team dominates its scrimmage against Fitzgerald at Packer Park. … Flag football team shares excitement for inaugural season.

Aug. 16

The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine South Georgia faculty and staff welcomes about 76 incoming doctor of osteopathic medicine and biomedical students to campus. … Colquitt Regional and Vereen Rehabilitation Center announces that two of their employees, Jaclyn Donovan and Kathleen Rubino, received recognition at the state level from the Georgia Athletic Trainers Association.

Packers to open season with the Dutch Fork Silver Foxes of Irmo, S.C., on Tom White Field at Mack Tharpe Stadium. … Jersey numbers 6 and 99 were reissued in remembrance of Lavasky King and Darby Dalton to Markese Wilson and Islann Alvarado, respectively. … Packers Ny Carr and Landon Thomas named to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Super 11.

Aug. 23

The City of Moultrie opens roundabout at Fifth Avenue and Second Street Southeast and and starts construction on another one at Fifth Avenue and First Street Southeast. … Gov. Brian Kemp signs a law to allow state tax credits to help fund local law enforcement. … The United Way of Colquitt County sets campaign goal at $610,000.

Aug. 30

Several local organizations closed due to Hurricane Idalia including Colquitt County Schools, Colquitt Christian Academy, Southern Regional Technical College, The Arts Center of Moultrie and The Moultrie Observer. … Colquitt County School District officials say students were approaching pre-pandemic levels after reviewing results from the Georgia Department of Education Milestones tests that students took last year. … The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners set a variety of property tax rates that were lower than previous year. … The City of Moultrie’s qualifying period opened Monday, Aug. 21, for the mayor’s position and three council seats. Mayor Bill McIntosh and council members Cole Posey (District 2, Post 2) and Cecil H. Barber (District 3, Post 4) qualified without opposition and incumbent Lisa Clarke Hill qualified for the District 1, Post 1, seat alongside two other candidates, Eddie Warren and Jeron Bridges. … The Colquitt County School District’s Board of Education approves reduced millage rate.

Neko Fann and Ny Carr lead Colquitt County to a 47-27 victory over Stockbridge and a 2-0 record to start the 2023 season. … Moss Farms diver ElliReese Niday won the gold medal on the 3-meter springboard in the 11-and-under age group at the PanAm Junior Diving Championships held in Lima, Peru.September

Sept. 6

Hurricane Idalia storms through the area but Colquitt County fares well. … Gov. Brian Kemp and other state leaders visit storm-damaged Valdosta.

Neko Fann becomes Colquitt County’s all-time touchdown pass leader after throwing for five scores in a 40-2 victory over Tift County at Brodie Field. … The Packers to face Lee County again. …Darius Townsend earns dream job as the Packer’s video coordinator. … The Colquitt County varsity volleyball teams start their 2023 season strong, undefeated after their first two matches against Grace Christian and Thomas County Central.

Sept. 13

Gov. Brian Kemp announces that 25 additional counties were included in an expanded disaster declaration related to Hurricane Idalia. Colquitt County is among them. … The Moultrie City Council approves a small decrease in the millage rate for the 2023-24 budget Sept. 5. … Colquitt County Commissioners vote to call for a special election in November so that voters can weigh in on the continuation of a 1% sales tax. … The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners put off making a decision on a rezoning request for property on Cool Springs Road. Cleveland and Sam Morton want to have their land rezoned from agricultural to residential so they can build three duplexes to rent out.

Packers beat Lee County 37-20, raising record to 4-0. … All five Region 1-7A teams get victories in week four of the season. … The Lady Packer softball team splits its last two games. … Colquitt County Sports Hall of Fame member Reggie Stancil gets his first win as the head football coach at Dacula High.

Sept. 20

Arrangements for the dedication of the Spence Field Memorial Historical Marker are finalized for Tuesday, Sept. 26. … The Colquitt County School Board votes to seek a construction manager for projects recently approved by voters in a sales tax referendum. … A Cappella Choir alumni to meet to celebrate 90 years of the group’s continued presence in the community on Oct. 13 and 14. … A Colquitt County resident is shot at but not injured, as he pursued two men he said robbed him. … Matthew “Matt” Littleton is appointed by the Superior Court Judges of the Southern Judicial Circuit of Georgia to become the Chief Magistrate Judge of Colquitt County. … On the morning of Monday, Sept. 11, Southern Regional Technical College announces it had achieved record student enrollment for the 2023 fall term with 5,070 students.

The Packers prepare for the Cedar Grove Saints football team. … The Colquitt County middle school and high school competitive cheerleading squads hold showcase. … Colquitt County softball team sweeps a Region 1-7A doubleheader in Camden County. … Georgia coach Kirby Smart praises ex-Packer Daijun Edwards after a victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks. … The Lady Packers varsity volleyball team gains their first region win after facing the Camden County Wildcats at Colquitt County High School.

Sept. 27

A real estate marketing group proposes using the former Riverside Manufacturing facility to temporarily house about 200-300 refugees who would work in the community. … United Way of Colquitt County holds its annual Day of Action on Sept. 23. … The 11th Annual Teen Maze event will be held in October at C.A. Gray Junior High School. … Police detain two suspects in three drive-by shooting incidents and seek other suspects. … A husband is arrested for driving under the influence after his wife falls from vehicle, due to door malfunction; she has to be airlifted to a Tallahassee hospital. … The Moultrie-Colquitt County Humane Society’s executive director, Courtney Azar, appeals to the county commissioners for additional funds.

Packers hold off Cedar Grove with a 50-42 victory on Tom White Field at Mack Tharpe Stadium. … Boys and Girls Club of Moultrie introduces new soccer program. … The Colquitt County softball team splits double-header with Lowndes. … Tommie Lee Jackson Jr. and Jud Campbell are inductees for the Georgia Aquatic Hall of Fame.October

Oct. 4

The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners announces in a Facebook post that a proposal to house refugees on the former Riverside Manufacturing property will not move forward. … The Colquitt County District Attorney’s Office files a murder charge against the alleged driver, Colin Anthony Terrell of Moultrie, in a police chase that claimed the life of another motorist, Verna Louise White, 44, of Moultrie. … The Colquitt County Board of Education receives an update on three upcoming construction projects by Travis Petitjean of Altman and Barrett architects, at the board’s meeting Sept. 25.

Packers blow past Lincoln High of Tallahassee in a 56-16 victory on Tom White Field at Mack Tharpe Stadium. … Colquitt County’s Hudson Champion wins his third title with aims at conference championship. … The Colquitt County High School competitive cheerleading squad brings home the first place trophy after the Southern Spirit Showcase held at Lowndes High School. … The Colquitt County softball team rallies for a Senior Night 9-8 win against Berrien.

Oct. 11

A Moultrie man is free — with all charges against him dismissed — after serving 21 years in prison in connection with a 1993 rape/robbery case in Moultrie. … The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners enact a 90-day moratorium on new alcohol licenses at its Oct. 3 meeting. … The Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition will celebrate its 45th Anniversary show Oct. 17-19. … Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office apprehends a 35-year-old male for public indecency, among other charges. … A routine traffic stop due to improper parking results in a 52-year-old man being arrested by the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office after he allegedly fled the scene and attempted to swallow evidence. … The Moultrie City Council approves rezoning land near Stringfellow Elementary School for duplex units.

Eighth-grade Packers win a conference title on Tom White Field at Mack Tharpe Stadium against Coffee Middle School. … The Colquitt County Lady Packers flag football team’s season officially begins when they travel to Warner Robins for a tri-match against both Warner Robins and Veterans, where they won both games by shut-out. … Bob Griffith, who was the first football coach after schools were consolidated and the Packers represented Colquitt County High School rather than Moultrie High, dies Oct. 2, 2023, in Statesboro. He was 79. … The Lady Packers varsity volleyball team defeats Lee County 3-0 in its final regular-season game of the season.

Oct. 18

Four buildings on Third Street Northwest catch fire on Oct. 10, completely decimating three of them. … Colquitt County High School’s seniors record another historic graduation rate in 2023. … Steve Cobb of Lake City, Ark., is the winner of the Sunbelt Ag Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year award, announced at the 45th Annual Willie B. Withers Sunbelt Ag Expo Luncheon. … Many residential homes and businesses were left without power when a substation in the northeast section of Moultrie stopped working. … On Oct. 12, the Women’s Federated Club in Moultrie hosts a public forum for the 2023 District 1 City Council candidates to answer questions directly from the citizens they would be serving. Of the three candidates, only incumbent Lisa Clarke Hill was present. … A Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office officer is injured after a high speed chase that began in Morven and ended on Highway 133 in Moultrie where a spike strip was deployed. … Friends and loved ones gathered to attend the Serenity House annual Candlelight Vigil. … Early voting begins for the Nov. 7 special and municipal elections.

Colquitt County defeats Camden County 37-16 at Chris Gilman Stadium. … The Colquitt County Lady Packers Flag Football varsity team continues their shutdown streak after beating Dougherty 33-0 in their first area game of the season. …

Oct. 25

Felicia Richardson is named Colquitt County School District Teacher of the Year at a ceremony in Withers Auditorium. … The 45th Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition comes to a close with another successful event, said executive director Chip Blalock. … The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Georgia Department of Agriculture and the University of Georgia Extension launches a statewide collaboration at the Sunbelt Ag Expo to address mental health in the farm community. … Moultrie Police Department arrests four men in the Southeast portion of town for possession and intent to sell multiple narcotics.

Neko Fann becomes Colquitt County’s all-time leader in passing yardage in a game against Lowndes county, where the Packers won 52-34. … The Colquitt County girls cross country team has just one full-time runner, but the Lady Packers have two trophy-winning performances to their credit as they prepare for the Region 1-7A meet. … In order to raise funds to assist each Colquitt County resident currently undergoing cancer treatment, Lemongrass Spa Products hosts the first annual Dink for Pink Pickleball Tournament.

November

Nov. 1

Two Colquitt County physicians, Woodwin “Woody” M. Weeks, DO and Michael A. Thayer, MD were honored with prestigious awards during the annual Medical Association of Georgia (MAG) House of Delegates meeting. … Two South Georgia pharmacies are among the first three in Georgia to be licensed to sell low-THC cannabis oil to eligible patients. Independent pharmacies in Warner Robins, Tifton, and Omega are the ones licensed. … Two Moultrie residents were taken to Colquitt Regional Medical Center after being wounded by bullets during one of several weekend shootings. … The Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office won the first place prize of $5,000 in the department competition during the 4th Annual Moultrie First Responder Association Shooting Competition.

Packers defeat Valdosta 44-28 in front of a large Senior Night crowd to claim their second-straight Region 1-7A championship. … The Lady Packer competitive cheerleading squad wrapped up its regular season with a first place finish in the Worth County Last Chance Cheer Competition. … The Colquitt County girls finish fourth in the Region 1-7A cross country meet at Freedom Park and have qualified for the state meet. … The Colquitt County Lady Packer varsity flag football team continues their shutout streak during their first officiated home match at Mack Tharpe Stadium when they beat Camden County 45-0. … The Georgia High School Football Daily names the Packers front line as its Offensive Line of the Week and representatives from the publication and sponsors Alfa Insurance and the U.S. Army presents the team with a plaque. … The Colquitt County softball team falls 7-6 to Parkview and is eliminated from the Super Regional at East Coweta.

Nov. 8

Colquitt Regional Medical Center President and CEO Jim Matney is named CEO of the Year by The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals at its 40th Annual Conference. … For people who have lost Medicaid benefits, a Georgia Enroll workshop is held at Southern Regional Technical College to offer some options to move forward. … After fleeing authorities in a high-risk speed chase that went throughout the City of Moultrie, a 15-year-old driver crashes the vehicle after he jumped a curve, causing the car to nose-dive and disabling the front end. … Supporters of Hero House gather to celebrate related milestones for the county’s child advocacy center. First Presbyterian Church had given the charity the deed to the First Street Southeast lot where its building sits and the charity received a grant to help build a soundproof room for interviews. … Colquitt Regional receives its 17th “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit upholding the standard of patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers.

For the second year in a row, Colquitt County easily defeats Richmond Hill to finish the regular season with a 10-0 record. … The Moultrie YMCA gymnastics team competes in the Sunbelt Shindig held at the Moultrie YMCA and breaks three team records. … Sixth-grader Taylnn Cook takes a first-place finish in an event she had never competed in before and leads the Colquitt County middle school swim teams to an overall third place finish in the Tift County Middle School swim meet. …The boys 400-yard freestyle relay team takes a first-place finish and the girls team places second overall as Colquitt County opens its season in the Tift County Swim Meet.

Nov. 15

Colquitt County High School JROTC Cadet Michael Marshall receives the highest award for achievement in the Marine Corps JROTC for the Southeast Region of the United States during CCHS Packers football game. … The Colquitt County School District receives a Safer Georgia Schools grant totaling $250,000, which is the maximum that’s awarded. … The Fall Moultrie Automotive Swap Meet and Car Corral is in its 33rd year at Spence Field and is held Nov. 17-19. … Students from across the region participate in the Associated General Contractors of Georgia Skills Challenge and win awards. … The annual Veterans Day ceremony is held at the amphitheater on the courthouse square. … The 2023 Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen (REACH) Scholars are Joseph Hullett, Nadiya Moore, Leah Vining, Justese Walker, and Ny’Aysia Zeigler. … The Arts Center of Moultrie is awarded a total of $100,000 from two grants that are earmarked for building improvements. … At the work session of the Colquitt County Commission a request is made by Sheriff Rod Howell to purchase three cameras that employ license plate recognition technology.

Colquitt County scores two touchdowns in the final 40 seconds of the first half and goes on to a 51-25 first-round Class 7A state tournament victory over Parkview, but had to play the second-half without record-setting quarterback Neko Fann. … After winning 24-19 over Lowndes, the inaugural Colquitt County flag football regular season ends with an area title. … Three Colquitt County High School and Moss Farms senior divers accomplish their goals and sign scholarship paperwork. The divers are Bo Bridges, Nyla Thompson and Ruth Anne McCranie. … Darrell Strange, Colquitt County football game broadcaster, is honored during Packer football game. … Sports Hall of Fame member Carolyn Grantham Booth dies Nov. 12, 2023.

Nov. 22

Jack Norman Gay, one of the early leaders and past presidents of what is now Southern Regional Technical College, dies on Nov. 14, 2023. … Moultrie native, Fielding Thomas, designs the downtown Christmas ornament, which features Griner’s Jewelry building. … Only 25 minutes after the theft of an $80,000 2023 Yukon, the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office arrests two men, both in their mid to late 20s.

Packers eliminate the Westlake Lions 38-19 to send them to a quarterfinal meeting at Milton. … Colquitt County’s Russell Flowers goes 4-0, taking a first-place finish in the 165-pound weight class at Raja Bryan Memorial Invitational at Ola High School. … Maris Hopper selected softball Player of the Year by region coaches and six Lady Packers are named to the all-region team. … Colquitt County girls basketball team gets a 43-30 season-opening victory at Westover. … Allie Mobley earns a pair of silver medals to help lead the Colquitt County middle school swim team to a third place overall finish at Tift Middle School Meet. … Packers placed in proposed Region 1-6A by the Georgia Highs School Association. … Two Colquitt County girls relay teams turned in performances in the Packer Invitational that qualify them for the state swim meet.

Nov. 29

Holiday crash kills five people on Hwy. 111 and a GoFundMe is set-up to help the families. … Fiber internet provider Kinetic announces plans to make 70% of Colquitt County — more than 17,000 homes and businesses — “fiber ready” next year. … County commission discusses updating zoning ordinance in light of concerns about a loop-hole that would allow a refugee facility. … Gov. Brian Kemp appoints Colquitt Regional Medical Center Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Services Dena Zinker, MSN, RN, NE-BC, FACHE, to the Georgia Board of Nursing. … A 2-year old child is kidnapped from a gas station on Highway 133 South and was missing for several hours before being located and secured by the Moultrie Police Department and Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office.

December

Dec 6

Following an incident that threatened to take a student’s life, the Colquitt County School System is declaring war on electronic smoking devices. … A 19-year-old woman was shot in rural Colquitt County Dec. 2. She was reported in critical but stable condition two days later. … Craig and Hannah Kirkland share the joy of Christmas with the community through a yard full of Christmas lights, visits from Santa Claus and collections to benefit the needy. … The Ameris Bank Medical Education Center at Colquitt Regional Medical Center opened its doors Nov. 30. … The Joint Commission’s Maternal Levels of Care (MLC) Verification program, offered in collaboration with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), has named Colquitt Regional Medical Center as a Level II maternal care verified facility. … The Arts Center of Moultrie Board of Directors announced the hiring of Joy Yost as the organization’s next executive director.

The 2023 Area 14 Winter Special Olympics took place in Moultrie the Friday before Thanksgiving, with opening ceremonies held at Colquitt County High School. … Colquitt County wide receiver Ny Carr and tight end Landen Thomas will join Packers head coach Sean Calhoun next month in San Antonio, Texas, for the 2024 All-American Bowl. … Moultrie’s John Glenn had a long career as a professional baseball player, although only 32 games of it came in the major leagues. But Glenn, who died at 93 on June 4, 2023, in Delran, N.J., did not complain.

Dec. 13

The Colquitt County Board of Commissioners approved an ordinance allowing them to file a tax lien if a landowner doesn’t clean up nuisance property. In December, they were forced to consider whether to actually do so; commissioners instead urged County Administrator Chas Cannon to continue working with the homeowner and her neighbors to get the mess cleaned up. … Marla DePolo Golden, DO, MS, FACEP, has been named dean of the osteopathic medicine program at PCOM South Georgia.

Dec. 20

On Dec. 15, 1923, the Moultrie Observer announced the opening of Crystal Pharmacy with the headline “New Drug Store One of the Finest in the State” and, now, 100 years later, the business is still going strong in Moultrie. … Colquitt County Medical Society presented its inaugural awards to five local medical professionals: Destiny Sciuva, the Medical Student of the Year; Ellen Sutton, Colquitt Regional Medical Center’s medical staff coordinator; Jessica Rivenbark, Colquitt Regional’s vice president of medical education; Dr. D.W. Adcock, an orthopedic surgeon for 24 years; and Dr. Anthony Moser, who joined the hospital staff in 1998 and retired in the fall of 2023.

Dec. 27

Eyvone’s Porch In-Centive plans its first Put the Guns Down Rally Dec. 30 to educate Moultrie’s youth about choosing a non-violent path. … Pearl Collins, a resident at Legacy Village at Park Regency, celebrated her 107th birthday on Dec. 24. … Hugh B. Ward, D.Min., was named the 2023 recipient of the Walter E. Harrison, Jr., MD, Humanitarian Award. … A 74-year-old Colquitt County resident was rushed to the Thomasville trauma center after being shot in the leg during an altercation with his 59-year-old neighbor.

Former Packers Ryan Fitzgerald and Daijun Edwards will face one another Dec. 30 at the Orange Bowl. Edwards is the starting running back at the University of Georgia, and Fitzgerald is the redshirt junior kicker for Florida State. … Six Colquitt County senior football players used National Signing Day to confirm where they plan to continue their educations and football careers. … Eleven-year-old Moultrie golfer David Herndon was named a tour champion for the fifth time on a junior golf tour when he was named 9-11-year-old champion of the Under Armour Middle Georgia League.