Macon Touchdown Club Honors Week 8 Standouts Across Middle Georgia

FPD’s Brady McHugh, Rutland’s Tyson White, Mount de Sales’ Caleb Linder, and Jones County’s Junior Holloway headline this week’s honorees.

MACON, Georgia – (41NBC/WMGT) – The Macon Touchdown Club honored its Week 8 Players of the Week on Monday night, recognizing standout performances from across Macon. Backs of the Week went to Brady McHugh of First Presbyterian Day and Tyson White of Rutland. McHugh, a senior running back and defensive back for FPD, rushed 22 times for 100 yards and…

GHSA Sets New Ruling on Playoff Seeding Starting in 2026

New formula ranks Georgia’s top 32 teams by strength of schedule, ending region-based playoff selection.

ATLANTA, Georgia – (41NBC/WMGT) – The Georgia High School Association is changing how playoff teams are selected, moving from region-based standings to statewide seeding. Starting this season, the top 32 teams in each classification will be seeded statewide, regardless of where they finish in region play. The new ranking formula multiplies a team’s winning percentage by that of its opponents…

Mercer Tennis Classic Serves Up $100K Tournament Featuring World-Class Talent

The 12th annual Macon event returns Oct. 13–19 with top-ranked pros, community support, and a growing national reputation

MACON, Georgia – (41NBC/WMGT) – The Mercer Tennis Classic returns Oct. 13–19 with one of the largest prize purses on the U.S. pro circuit, offering $100,000 in total prize money for a second consecutive year. Mercer Men’s Tennis coach and Tournament director Eric Hayes said the Macon-based event, held at the John Drew Smith Tennis Center, is one of only…

Soft lockdown, counseling support in place after deadly weekend shooting in Treutlen County

Superintendent Susan Stone says schools are focusing on safety, support and unity as the community mourns a student killed in Sunday’s shooting.

(Photo Credit: Fiona King/41NBC)Treutlen County Schools Soft lockdown SOPERTON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Treutlen County community is reeling after a weekend shooting left one student dead and another hospitalized, prompting local schools to enact a soft lockdown this week.  Law enforcement said Monday two arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, which happened Sunday on New Street. 20-year-old…

Georgia Democrat Olu Brown talks bid for governor

Former pastor and current small business owner Olu Brown is turning to politics, eyeing the governor’s mansion.

(Photo Credit: Taylor Gilchrist/41NBC)MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Former pastor and current small business owner Olu Brown is turning to politics, eyeing the governor’s mansion. “I’m offering myself for governor because I believe leaders go first and when we see a problem we want to be a part of that solution,” Brown said. Brown says one solution he hopes to provide…

Dr. Otha Hall named next superintendent of Laurens County Schools

Dr. Otha Hall, a former West Laurens teacher and administrator, will begin his role as superintendent in January following Clifford Garnto’s retirement.

Laurens county new superintendent (Photo: 41NBC/Bre’Anna Sheffield)LAURENS COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Laurens County Board of Education has named Dr. Otha Hall as the district’s next superintendent. He’s set to begin his term in January 2026. Dr. Hall has a lifelong connection to Laurens County schools. He served as a history teacher and administrator at West Laurens High School before…

12 arrested in Peach County child sex exploitation operation

Byron Police and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office worked with Covenant Rescue Group in a two-day operation targeting online predators.

Photos: Peach County Sheriff’s Office/Byron Police DepartmentBYRON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Twelve men are facing charges after a two-day child sex exploitation operation in Peach County. According to a news release from Byron Police, the operation, called “Operation Not Here,” happened October 2 and 3 and was conducted by the Peach County Sheriff’s Office and Byron Police Department. Investigators say they…

Conditions stay warm and muggy Tuesday

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Above average temperatures and elevated humidity are expected Tuesday. This Evening It’s overall been a mostly cloudy start to the week however some clearing has happened this afternoon. Showers are becoming more widespread as the evening progresses. While thunderstorm activity is not expected a rumble of thunder cannot be ruled out. These should taper off as…

Forsyth woman killed in motorcycle crash on Georgia Highway 19

Deputies say 44-year-old Katie Sykes died after a Saturday crash on Highway 19 in Monroe County.

FORSYTH, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A Forsyth woman died over the weekend in a motorcycle crash on Georgia Highway 19, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. In an email, a spokesperson said deputies responded to the crash south of Hill Road on Saturday. The victim was identified as 44-year-old Katie Sykes of Forsyth. The sheriff’s office said the crash remains…

Macon house fire that left woman dead Friday night still under investigation

Firefighters say heavy flames were coming from the back of the home when they arrived just before midnight.

Photo: Coroner Leon JonesMACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A woman died in a house fire Friday night on Columbus Road in Macon. According to the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department, firefighters responded around 11:30 p.m. Friday to a reported structure fire at 2882 Columbus Road. Crews arrived to find heavy flames coming from the back of the home. Firefighters began putting out…

Two arrested after shooting kills teen, injures another in Soperton

Police say a 15-year-old died and a 17-year-old was injured in a Sunday afternoon shooting on New Street.

SOPERTON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Two people are facing murder and assault charges after a Sunday afternoon shooting in Soperton that left one teenager dead and another in critical condition. According to a Monday afternoon news release from Soperton Police, officers responded around 3:40 p.m. Sunday to the 100 block of New Street after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, officers…

Southeastern Reptile Rescue Brings Education and Adventure to Georgia National Fair

The Georgia National Fair is home to plenty of thrills, and one show is slithering its way into the spotlight.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Southeastern Reptile Rescue is giving visitors an up-close look at some of nature’s most misunderstood creatures. From snakes to alligators, the group’s live demonstrations are designed to educate fairgoers and help them see reptiles in a new light. Founder and CEO Jason Clark says their goal is to replace fear with fascination. “Snakes are probably the…

Band of the Week: Stratford Academy

This week’s 41NBC Band of the Week spotlight shines on the Stratford Academy Spirit of Stratford Marching Band. Band Director Lewis Watson says he’s excited about this year’s program, entitled “Revolution,” and proud of the dedication his students bring to every rehearsal and performance. Watson adds that their commitment, creativity, and teamwork truly capture the spirit of Stratford. Congratulations to…

West Laurens sophomore killed, twin brother and mother hospitalized after crash

Investigators say a northbound truck crossed the center line on State Route 31 and hit a car carrying a mother and her twin sons.

DEXTER, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A West Laurens High School student was killed and two family members were seriously injured in a head-on crash early Sunday morning. According to Georgia State Patrol, the crash happened around 12:44 a.m. Sunday on State Route 31, just south of State Route 117. Investigators said a green Ford Ranger traveling north crossed the center line…

THE END ZONE HIGHLIGHTS: FPD takes on Stratford in our Game of the Week

The Vikings (5-2, 1-0 in 6-AAAA-AAA) beat Stratford 28-14 last year and had beaten Stratford two straight seasons. The Eagles (5-1, 0-1) led the overall series over FPD, 25-23.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The FPD Vikings battled the Stratford Eagles on Friday night for our Game of the Week on The End Zone in Week 8. The Vikings (5-2, 1-0 in 6-AAAA-AAA) beat Stratford 28-14 last year and had beaten Stratford two straight seasons. The Eagles (5-1, 0-1) led the overall series over FPD, 25-23. Justin Dierkes has the…

THE END ZONE HIGHLIGHTS: Mount de Sales battles Tattnall

The Cavaliers (1-6, 0-1 in 6-AAAA-AAA) last beat Tattnall in 2020. The Trojans (0-6) had won four in a row vs. Mount de Sales and led the overall series 37-10.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Mount de Sales Cavaliers took on the Tattnall Trojans at Jack Baynes Field on Friday night. The Cavaliers (1-6, 0-1 in 6-AAAA-AAA) last beat Tattnall in 2020. The Trojans (0-6) had won four in a row vs. Mount de Sales and led the overall series 37-10. Here’s Tucker Sargent with the highlights. Categories: End Zone, Local…

THE END ZONE HIGHLIGHTS: Northeast visits Bleckley County

The Raiders (5-1, 5-0) had won five in a row with four straight shutouts. Northeast also edged out Bleckley County last season, 33-30. The Royals (5-1, 4-1) had won four in a row and came into this game after a 50-0 win over Jefferson County last week.

COCHRAN, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Bleckley County Royals welcomed the Northeast Raiders to Royal Stadium in Week 8 of The End Zone. The Raiders (5-1, 5-0) had won five in a row with four straight shutouts. Northeast also edged out Bleckley County last season, 33-30. The Royals (5-1, 4-1) had won four in a row and came into this game…

THE END ZONE HIGHLIGHTS: Houston County battles Northside

The Bears (6-0, 1-0 in 2-AAAAA) beat Veterans 49-10 last week. Houston County was scoring 42.3 points per game. The Eagles (0-6, 0-1) lost to Coffee 28-7 last week. Northside was only scoring only 11.2 points per game before playing Houston County.

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Houston County Bears took on the Northside Eagles at McConnell-Talbert Stadium in Week 8 of The End Zone. The Bears (6-0, 1-0 in 2-AAAAA) beat Veterans 49-10 last week. Houston County was scoring 42.3 points per game. The Eagles (0-6, 0-1) lost to Coffee 28-7 last week. Northside was only scoring only 11.2 points…

THE END ZONE HIGHLIGHTS: Peach County hosts Dougherty

Dougherty (2-4, 1-0 in 1-AAA) lost to Peach County last season, 49-14. Peach County (6-0, 1-0 in 1-AAA) beat Westover 42-14 last week and were scoring 34.5 points per game while allowing just 12 per game.

FORT VALLEY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Peach County Trojans hosted the Dougherty Trojans on Friday night. Dougherty (2-4, 1-0 in 1-AAA) lost to Peach County last season, 49-14. Peach County (6-0, 1-0 in 1-AAA) beat Westover 42-14 last week and were scoring 34.5 points per game while allowing just 12 per game. Check out the highlights from Trojan Stadium. Categories:…

THE END ZONE HIGHLIGHTS: Dublin travels to ACE

The Fighting Irish (4-2, 4-1 in 2-A Div 1) lost to Northeast 20-0 last week. It was the first time they had been shut out in three seasons. The Gryphons (4-2, 3-2) lost to East Laurens last week and had lost two in a row.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Dublin Fighting Irish went on the road to take on the ACE Gryphons on Friday night. The Fighting Irish (4-2, 4-1 in 2-A Div 1) lost to Northeast 20-0 last week. It was the first time they had been shut out in three seasons. The Gryphons (4-2, 3-2) lost to East Laurens last week and…

Robins Financial Credit Union offering financial relief to members during government shutdown

“This will relieve the burden and the stress of wondering when the next paycheck will be or how bills will be paid.”

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – As the government shutdown stretches into its third day, some Middle Georgia residents are feeling the strain of reduced federal services and financial uncertainty.  Trudy Kenworth, says she was unable to obtain a Red, White, and Blue replacement Medicare card at the local Social Security office. Staff directed her to the Medicare website, as in-person…

478 Music Awards unite community, celebrate local talent

Organizers BP and Snap Hughes say the event will feature live performances, award presentations and recognition of local artists.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The 4th annual 478 Music Awards are set for this weekend in Macon and are expected to bring the community together in celebration of local talent. The event will be held Sunday, October 5, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. in Macon. Organizers BP and Snap Hughes say the event will feature live performances, award presentations…

New attractions make their debut at the Georgia National Fair

The Georgia National Fair is back in Perry, and this year organizers are rolling out several new attractions for visitors to enjoy.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Georgia National Fair is underway, and it features plenty of new attractions this year, including rides. Reithoffer Shows, the company responsible for bringing in the rides, introduced a brand-new attraction from Italy. Standing 136 feet tall, the ride reaches speeds up to 80 miles per hour. President and CEO Richard Reithoffer said it’s “the ultimate…

Morning Business Report: Air travel risks, jobs report delay, record markets, and Halloween spending boom

Experts warn that the longer the current government shutdown continues, the greater the risk of disruptions to U.S. air travel.

(LILAMAX)- Experts warn that the longer the current government shutdown continues, the greater the risk of disruptions to U.S. air travel. Roughly 13,000 air traffic controllers are still working but will not be paid until the government reopens. About a quarter of the 45,000 employees at the Federal Aviation Administration face furloughs, halting services such as rulemaking and safety oversight….