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THE TROUP LOWDOWN NEWSLETTER

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The Troup Lowdown

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THE TROUP LOWDOWN NEWSLETTER

THE TROUP LOWDOWN NEWSLETTER
THE TROUP LOWDOWN

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

 

  1. The United States Has 63 National Parks
    From the geothermal wonderland of Yellowstone National Park to the jaw-dropping cliffs of Grand Canyon National Park, America now officially has 63 national parks. That doesn’t even count the 400+ additional national sites like monuments, battlefields, and historic trails. Translation: You could take one epic trip a year and never run out of bucket-list spots.

  2.  
  3. The U.S. Has the World’s Largest Economy
    The American economy is the largest on the planet, powered by innovation, technology, agriculture, entertainment, and good old small business hustle. From Wall Street to Main Street, it’s a giant, complicated engine that keeps the country moving.

  4. Alaska Is Bigger Than You Think


  5. Alaska is so large it could fit Texas inside it… twice. And it still wouldn’t be crowded. It also has more coastline than all the other U.S. states combined. Big land. Big wildlife. Big adventures.

  6. The U.S. Has Five Territories Most People Forget


  7. Beyond the 50 states, the U.S. also includes territories like Puerto Rico and Guam. They’re part of the American family but often overlooked in everyday conversation. Each has its own unique culture, history, and flavor.

 

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)

 

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.
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
*Registration is required to participate.

 

For West Point, GA:


Nearby on Saturday, February 21, 2026, there’s a community-oriented session called “Translating Love Language” at The Coffee Gin Co. (803 3rd Ave, West Point) starting around 9:00 AM — super approachable and perfect for locals looking for something meaningful and social.

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.

 

 
308 Main St, LaGrange, GA, United States, Georgia 30240
 
Duration: 6 hr
 
Public Anyone on or off Facebook
🎭 Laissez les bons temps rouler! Celebrate Mardi Gras with us at Wild Leap LaGrange for an all-day party packed with bold flavors, great music, and festive vibes.
🍴 Food on site:
• Chica’s Empanadas
• Jalapeño Express
• Midnyt Burger
🎶 Live music by:
The Venus Kings bringing the energy all afternoon
💍 Pop-up vendor:
• 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!

SPONSORED PETS

    Adopt a loving pet right here in Troup                                 County
If someone is ready to open their heart and home to a dog or cat, the first stop is LaGrange ‑ Troup County Humane Society. This local rescue works closely with the city shelter and pulls animals that need a little extra medical care or training so they’re ready for a forever home. All pets adopted through the society are typically spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before they go home — which makes the transition smoother for both the animal and the adopter.

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


• Check out the local art scene with a visit to the 🎨 LaGrange Art Museum, the charming 809 Gallery of Art, or the eclectic Cochran Gallery. These spots showcase local artists, rotating exhibits and are perfect for catching up over shared creativity.
• Pop into Lamar Dodd Art Center or Annie Greene Arts if you’re feeling artsy or want to support local talent — and maybe pick up a piece that speaks to you.

If you’re all about pampering and self-care, LaGrange has your back:
• Treat yourselves to a glow-up at West Georgia Spa- LaGrange's Best Facial for skin-deep luxury or Tranquil Xscape Spa for a relaxing massage.
• Hit up The Beauty Bar LG or Magic Touch Salon & Spa for hair, nails, and beauty boosters — perfect for a “girls’ glam day.”
• Or keep it chill at Pure Wellness Day Spa or Thrive Wellness Center with Massage, where wellness and tranquility are the main vibes.

Mix in a sweet treat or two while you’re out:
• Grab coffee, pastries, or dessert together at Cafe Brûlée & Dessert Bar — a cozy spot to linger and chat.

For social sips and scenic weekends:
• Go wine tasting or take a vineyard walk at Nutwood Winery Tasting Room & Vineyard Cafe — it’s a classy, laid-back way to catch up with friends or celebrate an occasion. (Visit LaGrange Georgia)
• Even local boutique tasting events or small pop-ups (check the LaGrange event calendar) can turn a regular weekend into a friendship celebration.

And if your crowd loves markets and local flavors:
• Don’t forget La Grange Farmer's Market — fresh produce, artisan goods, chatting with vendors, and that kind of Saturday morning energy that just feels good.

 

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...

 

 

LOCAL MARKETS

17 Inch Blackstone Griddle(price reduced)

$100

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

Sleep: Sometimes, all it takes to get a solid eight hours of sleep is the right PJs.**

Reset: Did you know you can program a rest day in your Apple Watch rings?

Spell check: Witches say Etsy has stopped letting them offer spellcasting services.

Be well: See which states flu-like illnesses have peaked in.

Crystal clear: These tiny hearing aids from hear.com help make speech sharper and noise quieter. Don’t let background noise muddle February’s highlights. Try them for 45 days at no-risk.*

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 👇
YES — it’s verifiable.
There are bag fees seniors NEVER have to pay… but airlines will not volunteer a single word of it.
Why? Because baggage fees bring in billions.

Now here’s where it gets fun:

🔥 Veterans Delta, United, American — they all publish free-bag policies for qualifying veterans. Agents won’t mention it.
But if you ask, they can apply it on the spot.

🔥 Medical Gear
This one is federal. Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines must allow: CPAPs, Mobility devices, Walkers, Medication coolers
Assistive gear

ALL free of charge.
No bag fees.
No exceptions.
No upsell.

Most seniors never ask… and airlines profit from the silence.


 

AFFILIATE LINKS

THINGS TO BUY

Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
Love reading but hate hauling books around? This is the gold standard. The Kindle Paperwhite is lightweight, glare-free (even in bright sun), and holds thousands of books in one slim device. Battery life lasts weeks, not hours, which makes it a favorite for travelers, beach days, and bedtime readers alike. Once people switch to this, they never go back to paper stacks.

 

Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablet
This one punches way above its price. The Fire HD 8 is perfect for streaming shows, checking email, browsing recipes, planning trips, or entertaining the grandkids. It’s simple to use, surprisingly fast, and one of Amazon’s most gifted items for a reason.

 

Echo Dot (5th Generation)
The Echo Dot plays music, answers questions, sets reminders, controls smart home devices, and keeps life organized hands-free. It’s great for kitchens, bedrooms, offices, or even as a travel companion in rentals. Small, affordable, and wildly useful — classic impulse-buy territory.

 

**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:
Phone: 302-260-2084
Email: travelwithmikegray@gmail.com

Website: mikegray.cruisebrothers.com/cb

Check out this article about Thumb Magic, a company that offers innovative solutions for online businesses.

They provide tools to help increase website traffic and engagement, ultimately leading to improved sales and conversions.

With their unique approach, Thumb Magic aims to revolutionize the way we think about digital marketing.

If you're looking to take your online business to the next level, be sure to give them a try.

This article highlights their services and how they can benefit your brand.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to boost your online presence with Thumb Magic's cutting-edge strategies.Thumbmagic - The #1 AI Thumbnail Maker for YouTube


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...

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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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The Troup Lowdown

© 2026 The Troup Lowdown.

The Troup Lowdown is your easy guide to what’s going on aroundthe county — local news, fun events, great places to eat, and stories that matter to the people who live here. No fluff, just the good stuff, shared with hometown pride and a little personality.

© 2026 The Troup Lowdown.