The Troup Lowdown
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THE TROUP LOWDOWN NEWSLETTER


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The Troup Lowdown
Archives
THE TROUP LOWDOWN NEWSLETTER

Mike Gray
Feb 17, 2026
Visit Troup County Ga What's Happening-What Matters-Right Here |
Welcome to The Troup Lowdown — your weekly scoop on what’s happening around town, what’s worth checking out, and what you don’t want to miss. The Troup Lowdown is here to make your life easier. Instead of digging through a dozen websites and social pages trying to figure out what’s going on, you can find it all right here in one place. In this edition, we’ve rounded up events and activities that really feel like this region — small-town festivals, outdoor gatherings, local markets, performances, and those simple moments where neighbors come together. Some are longtime favorites you might already circle on the calendar. Others are one-time happenings you’d probably miss if someone didn’t point them out. Whether you’re planning your weekend or just like staying in the loop, this newsletter keeps things straightforward and useful. No hype. No fluff. Just what you actually need to know about what’s happening in and around Troup County. Let’s see what’s going on. |
Word Of The Day |
Today’s Word of the Day is: deceleration, meaning “reduction in speed or rate.” Thanks to Shannon from West Point for a suggestion worth slowing down and taking note of. Submit another Word of the Day. Submit Here. |
Ahoy-hoy. The US’ longest-running sitcom, The Simpsons, aired its record-extending 800th episode on Fox last night. Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie have now been on-air for nearly 40 years. If you missed last night’s episode, it predicted that you’d read this newsletter. |
SOME NATIONAL FACTS |
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Dining Guide: Exploring Downtown's Culinary Scene |
Grand Market & Café – This cozy little café has a great reputation with locals, rating super high and perfect for a relaxed lunch or a bite that feels homemade and good. Reviews are glowing even with few mentions online, which usually means the regulars love it. Karvelas Pizza Company – Classic local pizza joint with respectable reviews, great brick-oven pies and wings, friendly vibe, and solid casual dinner energy. Good for family nights or grabbing a slice with a cold drink. If you want a wildcard, Nachos Mexican Grill is a fun Tex-Mex spot that gets good buzz for margaritas and bold flavors, and JJ's Wings & Things Inc. is the go-to for wings and quick bites. (tripadvisor.com)
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LOCAL EVENTS |
The first round of applications closed Saturday, January 31st, but it's not too late to apply to be a vendor at this year's festival! We'll be notifying our first round of accepted vendors in the next few weeks. We have received so many great applications already! We'll have returning favorites, and some exciting new vendors this year as well!
Accepted vendors will be emailed an invoice via QuickBooks by the notification date. This will serve as your official acceptance notice. Submmitting an application does not guarntee acceptance. Payment is Non-Refundable. Failure to pay within 2 week may result in your booth being offered to another vendor.
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Lace up your running shoes and register for Point University's Skyhawk Community 5K on Saturday, April 18. Run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines -every step supports Point University and our community. See you at the starting line!
Point.edu/5K
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For West Point, GA:
These are the kinds of events where you’ll bump into neighbors, sip coffee, and feel that small-town vibe at its best — not big festivals, but exactly the sort of thing people talk about around town. Keep this calendar in your back pocket for your next newsletter or social post!
FOR HOGANSVILLE
Grammy Award-Winning Rebirth Brass Band at the Royal Theater – On Saturday, February 28, 2026, this legendary brass band hits the historic Royal Theater stage in Hogansville for a night of high-energy music and local culture. It’s a hometown-vibe kind of event that folks love — live music, community spirit, and something a little special to break up the winter slow-season. The Royal Theater is a real gem here, often hosting gigs, concerts, and community events. This one looks like a blast if you enjoy live performances with locals and visitors alike.
Event by Wild Leap Brew Co. and Wild Leap LaGrange
308 Main St, LaGrange, GA, United States, Georgia 30240
Duration: 6 hr
Public Anyone on or off Facebook
• Chica’s Empanadas • Jalapeño Express • Midnyt Burger The Venus Kings bringing the energy all afternoon • Danielle Evans Permanent Jewelry Pair it all with cold craft beer, drink specials, and plenty of space to kick back with friends. Dress in your purple, green, and gold and make a day of it—this is one Mardi Gras celebration you won’t want to miss!
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SPONSORED PETS |
Adopt a loving pet right here in Troup County You can visit the Humane Society during their adoption hours, meet some furry faces in person, and apply to take one home. They handle the entire process — from meeting the pet to processing the adoption paperwork. Another local group that’s focused specifically on cats is RescueCats. They’re a nonprofit no-kill rescue that focuses on kittens and cats, making sure they’re spayed/neutered and cared for until they find their new homes. Appointments are usually required to meet the kitties, which makes it a nice, relaxed experience for both people and pets. |
THINGS FOR LADIES |
FOR YOUR BOUGIE FRIEND
If you’re all about pampering and self-care, LaGrange has your back: Mix in a sweet treat or two while you’re out: For social sips and scenic weekends: And if your crowd loves markets and local flavors:
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THE WEATHER (subject to change) |
The article discusses the recently released Spring 2026 forecast by The Old Farmer's Almanac. The forecast predicts a warm and dry spring for most of the United States, with some regions experiencing higher-than-average temperatures. The Almanac also anticipates decreased precipitation levels in the western and central states, potentially leading to drought conditions. Additionally, the forecast mentions the possibility of increased hurricane activity along the East Coast during the spring season. Overall, the Spring 2026 forecast suggests that people should prepare for warmer and drier conditions in many parts of the country. Read More... |
According to astronomy and the Groundhog Day tradition, spring 2026 will officially begin on March 20th. This date is determined by the vernal equinox, when the sun crosses the celestial equator and day and night are approximately equal in length. In contrast, Groundhog Day falls on February 2nd every year, when Punxsutawney Phil makes his famous weather prediction based on whether he sees his shadow. Both methods offer different perspectives on the arrival of spring, with astronomy focusing on the Earth's position in relation to the sun and the Groundhog Day tradition adding a fun and lighthearted twist to the seasonal transition. Read More... |
The article discusses the spring outlook and how a weakening La Niña can impact weather patterns for March, April, and May. La Niña typically brings cooler and wetter conditions in the northern U.S. and warmer and drier conditions in the southern U.S. However, as La Niña weakens, there may be a shift in these patterns. Meteorologists are monitoring various factors, such as sea surface temperatures and atmospheric conditions, to predict how this weakening La Niña will affect the upcoming spring months. This information can help individuals and communities prepare for potential changes in weather patterns. Read More... |
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LOCAL MARKETS |
17 Inch Blackstone Griddle(price reduced)$100
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If you’ve had a Blackstone griddle on your “someday” list, this is one of those rare deals where someday should probably be today. No mental gymnastics required. Here’s the setup: a Blackstone 17-inch griddle, barely broken in (used exactly twice), paired with a 17-piece accessory kit that actually covers the essentials instead of filler junk. It also includes two brand-new propane tanks and a carrying case, which makes it ideal for camping trips, tailgates, RV life, or easy transport to wherever food glory is needed next. All in, this package is worth well north of $200. The price is $100 cash, firm, fair, and refreshingly straightforward. Pickup is at the selRead Moreler’s home in LaGrange, GA. No shipping, no holds, no trades. First serious buyer wins, full stop. It’s clean, ready to cook, and perfect for burgers, breakfast spreads, backyard cookouts, or casually showing up friends who are still using a grill from 2009. Interested buyers can reach the seller directly through Facebook Marketplace. Read More... |
THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK |
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GOOD TO KNOW |
The article compares Google Maps and Waze, two popular navigation apps, highlighting Waze's unique features like real-time crowd-sourced data and police alerts. While Google Maps excels in reliability and accurate directions, Waze stands out for its community-centric approach and ability to route drivers around traffic. Ultimately, the author concludes that Waze is the better choice for those looking to avoid delays and receive timely alerts during their commute. However, for users who value simplicity and trustworthiness, Google Maps remains a strong contender for navigation needs. Read More... |
Gardeners are being encouraged to spray their patios and paths with vinegar until November to prevent unwanted vegetation growth. This method is said to be more effective than using harmful chemicals and can save time and money. Vinegar acts as a natural weed killer and can be easily applied with a spray bottle. By regularly spraying vinegar in areas where weeds typically grow, gardeners can keep their outdoor spaces looking tidy without resorting to harsher methods. This eco-friendly approach is gaining popularity among those looking for a safe and efficient way to maintain their gardens. Read More... |
The article discusses how the job market saw growth in January, with 467,000 added jobs surpassing expectations. However, the unemployment rate increased slightly to 4%, partially due to people entering the workforce in search of new opportunities. Industries like leisure and hospitality, professional and business services, and retail all saw job gains. In addition, wages continued to rise, indicating a positive trend for workers. Overall, the job market showed resilience and potential for continued growth in the coming months. Read More... |
The article is about Peachy Airport Parking, a service that offers convenient and affordable parking near Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Customers can book parking spots online using the provided link, which guarantees a reserved space upon arrival. The service aims to make airport parking stress-free by providing shuttle services to and from the airport. Customers can also track their shuttle in real-time for added convenience. Overall, Peachy Airport Parking strives to provide a reliable and efficient parking solution for travelers flying out of Atlanta. Read More... |
TRAVEL TIPS |
Here’s the truth nobody talks about 👇
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AFFILIATE LINKS THINGS TO BUY |
Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablet
Echo Dot (5th Generation)
**Heads up — all links are Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission. Same price for you, helps keep the lights on around here. |
SPONSORED ADS |
Turn Your Travel Dreams Into Effortless Reality Travel should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With Traveling With Mike Gray, you get more than a booking—you get a seasoned travel partner who handles every detail so you can focus on the fun. From cruises and European getaways to once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Mike brings expert destination knowledge, personalized planning, and insider value you won’t find on booking sites. No endless tabs. No guesswork. No stress. Just smart recommendations, tailored itineraries, and real human support before, during, and after your trip. When plans change or surprises pop up, you’ve got an expert in your corner—saving you time, money, and headaches. Stop planning trips. Start enjoying them. Plan smarter. Travel better. Go with Travel With Mike Gray. Contact: Website: mikegray.cruisebrothers.com/cb |
Check out this article about Thumb Magic, a company that offers innovative solutions for online businesses. Read More... |
TECH INFO |
Google's AI called Gemini is scanning emails for important information. Users can opt out of this feature by following a few simple steps. Gemini scans emails to offer suggestions and updates, but some may find it invasive. To stop Gemini from reading emails, users need to go to their Google account settings and turn off the AI's access to their emails. This process may vary depending on the device being used. Users concerned about privacy can take control of the situation by disabling this feature. Read More... |
Cracker Barrel has implemented a new dining rule requiring all customers to wear face masks while not seated at their table. The rule applies to all locations across the country and is aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of both customers and employees. The restaurant chain continues to follow health guidelines and regulations to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Customers are encouraged to comply with the new rule and work together to create a safe dining environment for everyone. Read More... |
New here or know a local who should be? EMAIL ME A BUSINESS CARD AND I'LL ADD IT TO THE SPONSOR SECTION |
Quote Of The Day |
"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Or better yet, add some vodka and make a party!" |
That’s the Lowdown for now. Until next week, take care and stay curious.
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