At the recent Sheriff’s Auxiliary Luncheon on August 29, Sheriff Mitch Ralston honored four individuals for their bravery and service. Bartow County Fire/Rescue Lt. Matthew Atkins received the Distinguished Service Cross for rescuing a trapped motorist on August 3. Gordon County Deputy Owen Towe and Jailer A.R. Kinsey earned the Meritorious Service Medal after saving an inmate who was choking on August 10. Deputy Gavin Phillips was awarded the Commendation Medal for his role in drug and weapons-related arrests.
Tragedy struck on August 23 when a head-on crash on Hwy. 53 in Calhoun claimed the life of 49-year-old Donald Brandon Franks. His wife and son remain hospitalized with severe injuries. A GoFundMe has been launched to help the family with medical and daily expenses. Link to donations.
Just a week later, on August 30, the Georgia State Patrol investigated a crash involving an 11-year-old on a 4-wheeler in Calhoun. The child, who was wearing a helmet, was seriously injured after colliding with a Mercedes-Benz and was airlifted by Life Force helicopter.
Meanwhile, the Gordon County Board of Commissioners has tentatively adopted a 2025 millage rate of 9.042 mills, representing a 9.89% property tax increase. Public hearings are scheduled for September 2 and 16 at the Judicial Building Assembly Room in Calhoun. Officials note that homeowners with a Homestead Exemption are not expected to see an increase. More details are available at gordoncountyga.gov.
