Problems at the Macon Water Authority's treatment plant sent more than twenty-one million gallons of partially treated sludge into the Ocmulgee River according to an MWA spill report.

It said the spill was discovered Monday and that electrical problems affected gear that treats sludge before it is released into the river.

Terry Forrest, director of waste management says the equipment was out of order for four days, which means the sludge did not meet normal treatment standards before flowing into the Ocmulgee River.

The incident, however, does not affect drinking water. Macon Water Authority Executive Director Tony Rojas said the in take for Macon and Bibb County's drinking water, is upstream from where the partially treated water was spilled.

Rojas also said those downstream from the spill are in no danger, since there are no other permits to use the river water for public consumption.

On May 14, unplug the TV and take the kids out to the park for a day of games, nutritious food, healthy tips and giveaways. Strong4Life Unplugged is a free festival promoting healthy and active lifestyles as part of the region-wide Central Georgia Unplugged initiative to promote more activity and less screen time.

The Central Georgia chapter of the American Red Cross honored 12 hometown heroes Thursday, members of the Hero Army making a difference in their community.

13WMAZ's Frank Malloy welcomed the crowd at Macon State College.

Members of the community nominated others they say make a difference through acts of courage or giving to others.

Each hero received a trophy.

8-year-old Winn Murray, who helped build a well for kids in Africa, was recognized as a 'Paving the Way Youth Hero,' and Judy Samuels was awarded the 'Fire Rescue Hero.'

She says she enjoys going into classrooms and teaching kids about fire safety.

"It makes me feel like I've served my community. I'm very honored for it, and it's for all our firefighters. It's not just my award. It's for all of them," Samuels says.

Winn Murray says, "I was learning about water scarcity in my REACH class and I wanted to do something about it."

Other winners included: