Claude Burgess moved from Walker County into history. The LaFayette native is currently the archivist assistant at the Thomaston-Upson Archives in Upson County, Ga., and is an A+ performer — literally. Burgess, along with his colleague Bonnie Smith of Thomaston, was nominated by the director of the archives, Penny Cliff, for the honor of A+ Performer in Upson County government. A brand new recognition and the brainchild of County Manager Kyle Hood, Burgess and Smith were among the first to be recognized by Hood as employees who have given exceptional service internally and to the public.

In the nomination statement by Cliff, she said that “Claude goes above and beyond in helping researchers. In addition, in June and July of this year, Bonnie noticed three times individuals who were overcome by the heat and with the assistance of Claude, they went outside to render assistance.”

In addition, because of his exceptional and diligent research for several out-of-state patrons, Burgess has had many books donated to libraries and archives in his name with thanks from the researchers.