News Roundup for July 24, 2025

A Tift County grand jury has returned a massive indictment against cemetery monument sellers accused of defrauding grieving families. ThunderCon 2025 is set for September 13 at ABAC with voice actors, vendors, cosplay, and more. Irwin County Hospital officials dispute a report claiming they’re at risk of closure. Georgia’s Main Street programs brought in over $824 million in investment last year, with Tifton among the standout cities. Tift County schools start August 1 with a new cell phone ban and extended school day. In DeKalb County, a major meth bust nets federal charges for two mechanics. Georgia’s film industry got a big boost from the new Superman movie, which brought in over $100 million in spending. The U.S. Education Department is releasing $1.3 billion in frozen after-school program funds. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is pushing to eliminate Georgia’s income tax, drawing political battle lines ahead of 2026. And finally, the invasive spotted lanternfly has been found in Fulton County, threatening Georgia crops.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tifton-talks--6578576/support.---Voicemail: https://tiftontalks.com/voicemailEmail: [email protected]:  229-234-1307 Get full access to Tifton Talks at tiftontalks.substack.com/subscribe