Friday, September 18, 2026

Tifton, Georgia

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DERRICK LAMAR BRITT JR.

DOMINIQUE SHAROD BUTLER

ROBERT LOUIS 'LOUBO' BROWN

AIYAH JZAYNAY FOSTER

TIFT GRAND JURY INDICTS FOUR IN 'BURNING CAR' SHOOTING DEATH

By FRANK SAYLES JR.

Tifton Grapevine

Four Tifton residents were indicted this week by a Tift County Grand Jury in the death of a Tifton man who was shot, his body dumped in a ditch, and his car set afire in July.

Three of the defendants were indicted on murder charges related to the death of Joshua John Gillis, 36, of Tifton.

Derrick Lamar Britt Jr., 33; Robert Louis "Loubo" Brown, 41; and Dominique Sharod Butler, 36, are each charged with both malice and felony murder, aggravated assault, and two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

The trio, along with Aiyah Jzaynay Foster, 25, are all also charged with conspiracy to commit abandonment of a human body, abandonment of a human body, arson in the second degree, and tampering with evidence.

Britt is also charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, stemming from his April 18, 2024, conviction of cocaine possession.

Brown is also charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon for his Sept. 21, 2023, conviction of Fentanyl possession.

The charges are related to Gillis' death on or about July 23, according to the indictments.

The indictments state that Gillis was shot repeatedly and his body was taken to a remote location and dumped in a ditch near the intersection of Arnold and Branch roads. The defendants are charged with setting Gillis' vehicle on fire and burning evidence.

TIFT COUNTY HIGH'S SOUTHEAST TEACHER OF YEAR IN CAREER-TECH, ADVANCES TO NATIONAL CONTEST

Tifton Grapevine Staff Reports

Dr. Melissa Busbin, business and computer science teacher at Tift County High School, has been named the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) Region II Teacher of the Year, advancing to national competition in December.

ACTE is organized into five geographic regions nationwide, with each regional Teacher of the Year advancing as a finalist for the national honor. Region II encompasses states and territories across the Southeast, making Busbin one of five regional Teacher of the Year finalists from across the nation.

Busbin received the honor this month during the ACTE Region II Conference in Lexington, Ky. The Teacher of the Year award recognizes excellence and innovation in career and technical education, and educators who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to student achievement, leadership, and preparing students for future education and careers.

For Busbin, the recognition reflects the students, colleagues, families, and community who have been part of her journey as an educator. “This is our celebration and our success,” Busbin said, referencing her students.

“Awards like this don’t happen because of one teacher. They happen because of what takes place in a classroom every day — the ideas we try, the projects we build, the risks we take, the mistakes we learn from, and the moments when students surprise us with what they are capable of doing.”

Busbin teaches courses in computer science, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, programming and emerging technologies at Tift County High School. Her classroom emphasizes hands-on learning, industry credentials, real-world applications, and opportunities to explore rapidly changing technology fields.

Those opportunities will expand again next spring when Busbin’s students participate in the NEON program, through which Arizona State University will offer cloud computing to her students. The opportunity builds upon Tift County’s existing work in cloud computing while expanding students’ access to advanced learning and preparation for technology careers.

Busbin’s work extends beyond the high school classroom. She serves as an adjunct professor in leadership, technology, & workforce development at Valdosta State University and previously served as a Georgia Department of Education virtual specialist for computer science, supporting computer science education and educators across the state.

She has also led and supported initiatives designed to expand computer science, artificial intelligence and digital literacy opportunities throughout Tift County Schools.

During the recent ACTE Region II Conference in Kentucky, Busbin was a conference presenter, sharing practices with fellow career and technical education professionals through sessions focused on artificial intelligence and preparing educators to bring emerging technologies into the classroom.

Her presentations included "AI-ready Classrooms," presented with Tift County Schools CTAE Director Dr. Donald Gilman; and "Teaching AI with Food, Chatbots, and Mad Libs," an interactive session demonstrating approachable ways educators can teach concepts such as machine learning, training data, bias, large language models and responsible AI use.

The Region II recognition continues a series of state and national honors for her. Busbin was named the 2025 Georgia ACTE Teacher of the Year and received a 2026 Cyber.org Educator Award during its EdCon 2026 conference in Reno, Nev. The national award recognized her work expanding computer science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity opportunities for students

“Every student who has walked through my classroom, challenged me, trusted me, learned with me and allowed me to be a small part of their journey has also been part of mine,” Busbin said. “I am incredibly proud to represent Tift County High School, our CTAE program and, most importantly, my students. We did this together.”

GEORGIA IS 6th-BEST STATE FOR TEACHERS, NEW REPORT SAYS

By FRANK SAYLES JR.

Tifton Grapevine

Georgia is the sixth-best state for teachers and No. 2 in the South behind Virginia, based on several metrics including average salaries, according to a new national report.

Personal-finance company WalletHub released its report this week on the Best & Worst States for Teachers in 2026, to help educators find places to work with good teaching environments and above-average compensation.

WalletHub analyzed the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 24 key metrics, ranging from teachers’ income growth potential to the pupil-teacher ratio to public-school spending per student.

Georgia received the overall rank of sixth in the nation and, with Virginia at No. 3, is the only other state in the South with a rank above 15th.

Among Georgia's metric rankings:

• 1st in the nation in "Existence of Digital Learning Plan," which considers the presence of state comprehensive digital learning strategies for schools deploying technology, a series of trainings for teachers, and instructional resources for building remote lesson plans.
• 5th in average starting salary for teachers (adjusted for cost of living)
• 6th in the projected number of teachers per 1,000 students by year 2034.
• 7th in average salary for teachers (adjusted for cost of living)
• 16th in a 10-Year change in teacher salaries
• 22nd in teachers’ income growth potential
• 28th in public-school spending per student
• 29th in pupil-teacher ratios

“Despite having one of the most crucial jobs in America – educating the next generation – teachers are often underpaid and under-appreciated," said Chip Lupo, an analyst with WalletHub. "The states that make a teaching career the most rewarding are those that compensate educators well, invest heavily in educational resources, pass laws that improve school-system quality, and provide supportive conditions that lead to low turnover.”

According to the report, the best states for teachers in 2026 are Washington, New York, Virginia, Illinois, and Utah. The worst states are New Mexico, Maine, Montana, and Hawaii.

Florida is ranked 17th; Mississippi, 21st; Alabama, 22nd; and South Carolina, 24th.

FIESTA DEL PUEBLO ART EXHIBIT SHOWCASES YOUNG ARTISTS

By FRANK SAYLES JR.

Tifton Grapevine

The Tifton Council for the Arts opens an exhibit today at the Syd Blackmarr Arts Center in conjunction with the annual upcoming Fiesta del Pueblo.

The exhibit, "Art, Culture & Landscapes in Spanish-Speaking Countries," celebrates the beauty, diversity, and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world through the eyes of our region’s young artists.

The Fiesta del Pueblo exhibit features artwork by artists ages 9–17. Through paintings, drawings, sculpture, and more, the young artists showcase the vibrant cultures, customs, landmarks, and landscapes of Latin America, Spain, Puerto Rico, and beyond.

Visitors are invited to view a variety of two- and three-dimensional works, vote for their favorite piece in the People’s Choice Award, and celebrate the achievements of these local young artists.

At a free Community Craft Night from 5:30-7 p.m. Saturday, folks may create their own papel picado, the colorful paper banners traditionally used during celebrations throughout Mexico and other parts of Latin America. The family-friendly activity is open to all ages, with all supplies provided.

A free opening reception for the exhibit will be held 2-4 p.m. Sunday at The Syd.

La Fiesta del Pueblo will be held in Fulwood Park from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26. Last weekend, Janet Pineda (photo at left) was crowned Miss Fiesta del Pueblo 2026 at the Tift Theatre.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES IMPORTANT FOR ALL, NOT JUST ELDERLY, ROTARY TOLD

By BONNIE SAYLES

Tifton Grapevine

One of the misconceptions about advance directives is that they’re not just for the elderly, Tressie Mathis, Southwell’s director of Hospice and Palliative Care, told the Tifton Rotary Club on Wednesday. 

(Mathis poses in photo with Tifton Rotary President Dr. Israel Martinez-Franco.)

Anyone can and should have an advanced directive, which is a legal document that provides guidance that helps family members and others know what someone’s wishes are if they become incapacitated and cannot speak for themselves.

“Things can happen unexpectedly,” Mathis said. “It helps to reduce the burden on family members.” 

Also, the decisions are not permanent. There are several ways to make a directive, and the latest copy can preempt a previous directive.

“You should give a copy of the completed form to any facility where you are receiving care or routinely receiving care,” Mathis said. “Put it on file at the hospital.” Family members should know about it, and a primary care physician or cardiologist should have a copy. 

The document has to say who has the authority to make medical decisions, Mathis said. A health care power of attorney is not the same as a financial power of attorney, although both are legal designations.

The advance directive has four parts. The first 14 pages are instructions, Mathis said. 

“Treatment preferences would be if you are in a terminal condition or in a state of permanent unconsciousness,” she said. One section contains guidance for physicians, and one section is for witness signatures and designating the healthcare agent. A witness cannot be a healthcare agent. 

The Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care form and instructions for documenting your health care preferences may be accessed at mysouthwell.com/directive, Mathis said.

From left are Prince Automotive representatives Jay Prince, Alan McLendon, and Bobby Tosh; Willie DeBruce, SRTC automotive division chair; Stephen Mathis, SRTC industrial technology dean; Heather Prince Stripling of Prince Automotive.

PRINCE AUTO DONATES $378,240 IN PARTS TO SRTC

Tifton Grapevine Staff Reports

Prince Automotive Group has donated automotive parts valued at $378,240 to Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC), split between Prince of Tifton ($208,370) and Prince of Albany ($169,870).

The donation will support SRTC's automotive technology program, giving students hands-on access to real parts, components, and technical applications used in the industry today.

The partnership helps bridge the gap between classroom instruction and the day-to-day realities of working in the automotive field, allowing practical experience .

"Prince Automotive Group is proud to make this donation to SRTC and invest in students who are preparing for careers in the automotive industry," said Heather P. Stripling of the automotive group. "This donation matters to us because we are supporting our local technical school and helping provide students with the hands-on experience they need to succeed in the automotive workforce."

SRTC President Jim Glass said the college is "truly grateful to Prince Automotive Group for their generous donation of automotive parts to Southern Regional Technical College. Their support shows a strong commitment to workforce development and community growth. With this contribution, we're giving our automotive technology students hands-on experience they need to succeed in the field. Thank you, Prince Automotive Group, for making a meaningful difference in our students' lives"

SRTC's automotive technology associate degree program prepares students for careers in automotive service and repair through a combination of theory and hands-on application. Over five semesters, students develop the academic, technical, and professional skills needed for job acquisition, retention, and advancement, graduating as qualified entry-level technicians.

MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION AWARDS TIFTON WELL-BEING GRANT FOR CITY EMPLOYEES

Tifton Grapevine Staff Reports

The City of Tifton has been awarded a 2026 Well-Being Grant by the Georgia Municipal Association. The grant supports Tifton’s commitment to facilitating positive change in workplace culture and going the extra mile for employees’ health wellness. 

Tifton was formally awarded the $9,000 grant on Sept. 9.

The Municipal Association makes awards statewide to participating employers enrolled in one or more medical plans through the Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit Services' Life and Health Insurance Fund. 

The Health Wellness Program helps Municipal Association members embrace a variety of skills, mindsets, and cultures to encourage well-being through workplace health wellness initiatives. Officials say these initiatives have a demonstrated track record of improving employee well-being and quality of life,while reducing medical claims and improving workplace morale.

TIFTON-TIFT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTINGS

Tift County Government Annex

211 N. Tift Ave., Tifton

Sept. 14

Tift County High School MultiPurpose Pavilion

1 Blue Devil Way Tifton

Sept. 15

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YOUR GUIDE

TO ACTIVITIES

THIS WEEKEND

IN THE GREATER

TIFTAREA

Today, Sept. 18, is National POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring and remembering all U.S. military personnel who were prisoners of war or are still missing in action. The day was first observed in 1979 when Congress and President Jimmy Carter made it official. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), more than 80,000 Americans are still unaccounted for from past conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts. The DPAA continues recovery and identification efforts.

Born on September 18: Samuel Johnson, English scholar & lexicographer, 1709-1784; Herschel Vespasian Johnson, 41st governor of Georgia, 1812-1880; Eddie "Rochester" Anderson, comedian & actor "The Jack Benny Show," 1905-1977; Greta Garbo, actress, silent film star, 1905-1990; Jack Warden, actor, 1920-2006; Fred Willard, actor & comedian, 1933-2020; Robert Blake, actor, 1933-2023; Frankie Avalon, singer & actor, 1940–; Dr. Ben Carson, secretary of Department of U.S. Housing & Urban Development, 1951–; Rick Pitino, basketball coach, 1952–; Tommy Turbeville, football coach & U.S. senator, 1954–; James Gandolfini, actor "The Sopranos," 1961-2013; Jada Pinkett Smith, actress, 1971–; Lance Armstrong, cyclist, Tour de France champion, 1971–; Jason Sudeikis, comedian-actor "Ted Lasso," 1975–.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 18

• Art Exhibit: La Fiesta del Pueblo, hosted by Tifton Council for the Arts, Noon-6 p.m., Syd Blackmarr Arts Center, Love Avenue, Tifton

• Tiftarea Academy Panthers football @ Southwest Georgia Academy Warriors, 7:30 p.m., Damascus

• Fitzgerald High Purple Hurricane football @ Worth County High Rams, 7:30 p.m., Sylvester

• Irwin County High Indians football vs. Berrien County High Rebels, 7:30 p.m., Ocilla

SATURDAY, SEPT. 19

• Community Garden Volunteering, hosted by Keep Tift Beautiful, 9:30-11 a.m., 1413 Central Ave. N., Tifton

• Kickin' Out Kids Cancer, Kickball & Home Run Derby Day benefitting local families facing childhood cancer, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tift County Recreation Department baseball field, 401 Victory Drive, Tifton

• Free Craft Night: Celebrate La Fiesta del Pueblo, learn the tradition of Papel Picado, 5:30-7 p.m., Syd Blackmarr Arts Center, Love Avenue, Tifton

• Ramble Tamble: Creedance Clearwater Revival Tribute, 7 p.m., Tift Theatre for the Performing Arts, Downtown Tifton

SUNDAY, SEPT. 20

• Exhibit Opening Reception: La Fiesta del Pueblo Youth Art, hosted by Keep Tift Beautiful, 2-4 p.m., Syd Blackmarr Arts Center, Love Avenue, Tifton

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TIFTON GRAPEVINE'S DOG OF THE WEEK

"Whispers" is about a year old, weighs under 30 pounds, and is ready to find her forever family. She came as a stray, so not much is known about her life before the animal shelter, but one thing is sure – she has never met a stranger! This little girl loves people and is happiest when she’s getting attention and affection. Come meet Whispers and see other pets available for adoption between 1-6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at the Tift County Animal Shelter on Highway 125 South, or call 229-382-PETS (7387).

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