George Franco is much more than the host of the Possum Drop, he is a driving force behind the event’s growth into West Georgia’s largest family celebration and one of the best Family New Year’s Eve events in the state. As a longtime Atlanta broadcast journalist, professional auctioneer, and media strategist, George brings together storytelling, live production, and fundraising expertise that few community events can match. With more than 30 years in television news, including his role as a reporter at FOX 5 News Atlanta, George has witnessed both the challenges and triumphs of communities across the region. That experience shaped his commitment to using media and live events for good. Today, he works with nonprofits across the country to help raise funds and awareness for their causes, applying the same skills that make the Possum Drop such a powerful platform for community impact. As Founder and CEO of Tiger Eye Media, George leads a team that produces high-quality live and recorded content, helping organizations tell their stories in compelling ways. For the Possum Drop, this means professional live streaming that reaches thousands beyond the crowd in Tallapoosa, strategic social media campaigns, and polished on-stage production that keeps families engaged from start to finish. His ability to understand unique audiences and craft messages that resonate is a key reason the event now draws 12,000–14,000 in-person attendees plus thousands more online. George is also among an elite group of auctioneers who hold the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) designation from the National Auctioneers Association—a distinction earned by only 3% of auctioneers nationwide. As a certified bilingual auctioneer, he knows how to inspire generosity, highlight community needs, and maximize fundraising results. This expertise directly supports the Possum Drop’s ability to attract sponsors, engage donors, and channel resources back into local families and organizations. For the Possum Drop, George Franco is not just the voice on stage, he is the strategist, producer, and storyteller who helps turn a small-town tradition into a region-wide celebration with real economic, tourism, and social impact. His dedication to community, combined with top-tier media and fundraising skills, makes him an indispensable part of why the Possum Drop continues to grow and serve West Georgia year after year.
