The latest delay will push the project to late in the year.

Statewide Engineering of Douglas, the county’s engineer for the project, placed a revised bid advertisement in this week’s edition. The new deadline Monday, July 27.

The latest delay is due to “unbalanced bids” according to Statewide. Engineers determined the prices submitted were unable to be awarded.

A delay in May was caused by a glitch in the upload link for the bids. In the first bidding process in March no companies gave a price on the project.

Sources told The Times in March prospective contractors were concerned about the deadline for the work. The county had previously set a September 1 deadline for completion to be ready in time for the recreation department’s fall sports.

The latest delay will likely push the improvements to after the fall sports season.

Improvements will include upgrades to the football and soccer fields, resurfacing the walking track, improving and adding parking and sidewalks that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Under the latest re-bid, the project will be divided into two phases, a southern part and a northern part.

The southern portion will include the walking track and parking lot with work slated to begin in September.

The northern portion includes the ball field, drainage, fencing and parking lot construction with work slated to begin December 1, after football season ends.

The commission has committed up to $1 million in improvements at the field. The monies for the improvements will come from a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant and from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) and from the county’s general fund.

Plans for improvements at Tiger Field have been in the works for the last three years.

Tiger Field has been in use in the county since 1958, when it was built as part of the facilities for Blackshear High School. Blackshear High School merged with Patterson High School to form Pierce County High School in 1982.

The county has used the field for recreation facilities since that time.

Emmanuel Baptist Church will host a fireworks display in observance of Independence Day Sunday, July 5. The fireworks show will begin at dark.

The fireworks will begin at dusk and will originate from the large field Emmanuel Baptist Church owns located between the sanctuary and Strickland Avenue, at the rear of the Pierce County Courthouse.

The 20-minute display should be visible throughout the downtown Blackshear area.

“We are honored to make this gift to our community as we celebrate the birth of our great nation,” said Pastor Mike Stone, pastor of the church.

“We encourage citizens to gather in any open area around town. We think the fireworks will be visible anywhere in town.”

Special to The Times Six Chinese nationals were sentenced in federal court to prison time and will be deported after their release in connection to one of the largest drug busts in Pierce County’s history.

Chen Hui Shu, 36, Jin Peng Ma, 35, Lecai Huang, Wei Sheng Deng, 41, Zhu Sheng Bing, 65, and Zhi Yong Ma, 54, were all sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood during proceedings in U.S. District Court last week.

Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, made the announcement last Thursday.

• Shu, of Hunan, China, and Deng, of Guangzhou, China, were sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

• Huang, of Taishan City, Guangdong, China, and Bing, of Taishan City, were each sentenced to 30 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

• Jin Peng Ma, of Taishan City, Guangdong, China, was sentenced to 29 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

• Zhi Yong Ma, 54, of Taishan City, was sentenced to 29 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

There is no parole in the federal system. Upon completion of their prison terms, each defendant will be delivered to a duly authorized Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer for deportation proceedings.

“The successful takedown of this network sends a clear message that our law enforcement partners remain united and unwavering in the effort to identify, investigate, and dismantle organizations that threaten the safety of our neighborhoods,” said Jae W. Chung, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “This operation highlights the power of collaboration at the federal, state, and local levels.”

“This case highlights how the actions of steadfast law enforcement officers led to the discovery and dismantling of a massive drug distribution operation in southern Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “Our exceptional partners in law enforcement have contributed greatly to their community by eliminating this large-scale, illegal marijuana growing factory.”

As described in court documents and testimony, after multiple reports of the smell of marijuana originating from a specific property in Pierce County, an investigation was launched in July 2023, which thereafter expanded to another property in Brantley County.

The marijuana growing operation had an estimated street value of $22.3 million.

Deputies from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office and several state agencies served a search warrant at 6888 U.S. Highway 84 between Patterson and Offerman in February, 2024. The property is located between Cal-Maine Foods and Progress Rail.

Law enforcement said at the time the operation was “elaborate” with a “growing room” set up. The marijuana was being cultivated in four different growing rooms inside a structure on a tract of land at the location.

A similar bust occurred at HG LLC’s location on Plantation Circle, just off Georgia Highway 110 East, south of Atkinson and Waynesville.

During the course of the investigation, including extensive surveillance, a search of the properties revealed two large-scale indoor marijuana grows, complete with irrigation, grow lights, and multi-stage production facilities. In total, between the properties in Pierce and Brantley Counties, law enforcement seized approximately 15,000 marijuana plants.

The proceeds of this operation were traced internationally.

The properties located in Pierce and Brantley Counties were subsequently forfeited to the United States in March The Drug Enforcement Agency, Brantley County Sheriff’s Office, and Pierce County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation of these cases, which were prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia G. Rhodes, Tara M. Lyons, J. Bishop Ravenel and Darron J. Hubbard.

Pierce Countians cast ballots for six Republican runoffs, including nominees for governor and U.S. senator, with local results matching state-wide results in four of the six match-ups.

Pierce County voters preferred Mike Collins for U.S. Senate, Greg Dolezal for Lieutenant Governor, Tim Fleming for Secretary of State and Josh Tolbert for District 5 on the Public Service Commission.

However, local Republicans preferred Burt Jones for Governor and Fred “Bubba” Longgrear for State School Superintendent. Statewide, Rick Jackson won the nomination for governor and Incumbent Richard Woods won the Repubican nomination for state school superintendent.

Pierce County Democrats voted in support of the nominees except for secretary of state and the first district U.S. Congressional seat.

Statewide Democratic nomination winners included Josh McLaurin for lieutenant governor, Penny Brown Reynolds for secretary of state, Keisha Sean Waites for insurance commissioner and Nikki Porcher for labor commissioner.

For First District U.S. representative, Amanda Hollowell won the Demo-cratic nomination, though more Pierce County Democrats voted for Joyce Marie Griggs.

Local Democrats also supported Dana Barrett over Reynolds for secretary of state.

Turnout was a low 16.7 percent as just 2,188 of Pierce County’s 13,079 active, registered voters turned out to vote. There were no local races on the ballot.

Voter turnout was 28.57 percent (3,737 voters) in the May 19 primary.

A super majority of local voters chose Republican ballots (2,082) while only 106 chose Democratic ballots.

The Republican and Democratic slates are now set for the November 3 general election.

Meanwhile, a recount is scheduled for today for the Republican nomination for District 5 on the Public Service Commission.

Fitz Johnson was declared the winner in the May 19 primary, but he only defeated Brandon Martin by about 2,900 votes statewide out of about 776,500 votes cast.

Pierce County voters preferred Martin in the primary.

Gina Matarazzo of Blackshear, was among the undergraduate and graduate students recently awarded degrees at Adelphi University in Garden City, New York, including those who completed degree requirements.

Adelphi held its 130th commencement ceremonies to recognize graduates on May 21 at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, NY.

University of Alabama

Hannia Martinez Torres of Patterson was named to the spring, 2026 semester dean’s list at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, students must have an academic record of 3.5 (or above).

The University of Alabama is the state's flagship university.

Mercer University

Three Pierce County residents graduated at Mercer University during commencements held in May in Macon and Atlanta.

Local graduates included: Gautham Mudireddy of Blackshear, School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine and Raegen Cauthen, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Science and Jonathan Herrin, School of Business, Master of Business Administration, both of Patterson.

Mike Collins................................1,515 Derek Dooley ................................523

GOVERNOR

Rick Jackson .................................777 Burt Jones ..................................1,297

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR Greg Dolezal ...............................1,102 John F. Kennedy..........................926

SECRETARY OF STATE

Tim Fleming ..............................1,046 Vernon Jones ................................919

STATE SCHOOL SUPT.

Fred “Bubba” Longgrear ............1,217 Richard Woods (I) ........................797

PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER DIST. 5 Bobby Mehan................................705 Josh Tolbert................................1,163

DEMOCRATIC U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, DIST. 1 Joyce Marie Griggs.........................68 Amanda Hollowell..........................36

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR Josh McLaurin................................56 Nabilah Parkes................................47

SECRETARY OF STATE

Penny Brown Reynolds ..................40 Dana Barret ................................... 63

STATE INSURANCE COMMISH DeAndre Mathis .............................48 Keisha Sean Waites.........................55

STATE LABOR COMMISSIONER Nikki Porcher .................................57 Michelle Michi Sanchez..................45 Turnout for the Early Voting period and Election Day runoff was 16.7 percent with 2,188 of Pierce County’s 13,079 active, registered voters casting ballots.

The agreement allows eligible students who complete the Associate of Science in Education at SRTC to transfer coursework toward SGSC’s Bachelor of Science in Elementary/ Special Education. The partnership is designed to help students transfer credits more smoothly, avoid repeating coursework, and move easily from a technical college program into a bachelor’s degree program.

Through this agreement, SRTC graduates who meet the outlined requirements may continue their education at SGSC as they work toward becoming classroom teachers. Students must apply and be admitted to SGSC and meet all applicable admission, program, and graduation requirements, including standards set by the University System of Georgia and the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.

“This agreement reflects SGSC’s commitment to expanding access to bachelor’s degree opportunities while supporting the teacher workforce needs of South Georgia,” said Dr. Greg Tanner, President of South Georgia State College. “By working with Southern Regional Technical College, we are helping students continue their education in a way that is efficient, affordable, and focused on their future goals.”

The articulation agreement outlines approved course equivalencies between the SRTC Associate of Science in Education and SGSC’s Bachelor of Science in Elementary/ Special Education program. It also establishes a collaborative relationship between the two institutions to communicate with students, provide advising, and support program completion.

“This is a great day for students across our region. Through this partnership, students can earn an associate degree with us at Southern Regional Technical College and then continue their education at South Georgia State College to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education,” says SRTC President Jim Glass. “We are excited about this opportunity and the relationship we are continuing to build with South Georgia State College.”

The agreement was signed by representatives from both institutions, including from SGSC’s Interim President Dr. Greg Tanner and SRTC’s President Mr. Jim Glass.

For more information about South Georgia State College and its academic programs, visit www.sgsc.edu.

For as long as we’ve known each other, my best, and very good friend on Johnson Street, has given that gentle admonition to me.

I value his opinion, but alas, I didn’t heed it. Not this time. Not Saturday anyways.

Nay, Saturday was like the children's book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst, but, Alexander was me.

That’s how it ended up. It didn't start that way, though.

I actually had a very nice lunch with Mama and Aunt Nancy at a restaurant on Plant Avenue in Waycross.

After that, it all went down hill. There was a gathering storm I was unaware of, too, and then I made a series of miscalculations and unforced errors. It made for an exasperating day.

It was also a somber day as I was attending the memorial service for my former co-worker, Rose Aldridge.

When lunch ended, I had about 10 minutes to get to Grace Episcopal Church downtown. There was plenty of time. I was just a few minutes away.

Then, I wasn’t. I turned my trusty ol' Equinox out onto Plant Avenue and Kerblam! And then I noticed the passenger side was much lower than the driver’s side and the whole chassis began to shake and shimmy a la Shakira, but not nearly as attractive.

No, this was ugly. Like, ugly to the bone.

I managed to get the hobbling SUV to the parking lot at Edward Jones.

My right front tire was, as Grandma would say, “flat as a flitter.”

I did what any normal grown man would do. I called Mama. While she couldn’t exactly help me with the tire, she and Aunt Nancy came to be my taxi to the church.

On the way, I called my insurance’s emergency roadside assistance service. My vehicle was indeed on the roadside and to me a flat tire while you are on the way somewhere and dressed up in church attire and need it fixed is an emergency. So, I deducted assistance is what I needed.

Said service asked me to fill out my emergency roadside assistance request on my phone where my fat fingers caused me issues, but I managed to get it done.

I paid proper respects and homage to our precious Rose.

In the meantime, my phone, set to silent, buzzed every 10 minutes to update me on the insurance company’s efforts to get me emergency roadside assistance.

I visited with Rose’s family after the service, and I am that much kin to my Daddy in that I don’t want anyone to go home without being talked to. I looked around. Everyone who could have conveyed me back to my vehicle had already left. The skies began to be dark and mean and screamy and the cumulonimbus clouds carried deep purple bruises. (I’ve secretly always wanted to use the term cumulonimbus clouds in a sentence. Now I have. You are welcome.)

I started down Mary Street and turned on the sidewalk at Plant. Lightning bolts began to snap, crackle and pop around me.

I did what any normal person would do, I ran screaming to the nearest shelter I could find, which was the wagon in front of Callie Kay’s Western Wear. I ducked behind it. I felt like Marshal Matt Dillon except I wasn’t as brave. The phone rang. The emergency roadside assistance people informed me they weren’t coming to my roadside in my emergency with assistance — at least not for “hours.”

“Hours?” I asked. “What exactly do you mean by hours?”

“We can’t give you a time,” she said.

“Forget it,” I said. “I will deal with this emergency by myself. That’s what Deal’s do. We deal with stuff.”

Calls to several wrecker services and two tire places yielded nothing.

A break in the weather let me get to the car wash at Plant and Riverside Avenues before the storm picked up again. I hid under the tin shelter at the car wash while the wind and rain were coming sideways.

I had taken off my church coat. My socks were soaked and my feet squished in my shoes when I walked.

The passing of the storm finally allowed me to get back to the car.

I proceeded to get the jack out and get the tire repair started.

I found the skink that got loose in my car in June, 2023. He was perfectly mummified by the tire tool in the wheel well.

He and I were, well, pitiful.

And then, the very first good thing happened in this sequence. The Fletchers pulled in. I didn’t know them. They didn’t know me. Mr. Fletcher asked me if I needed help.

“Very much,” I said. He had the tire fixed in no time.

I tried to offer them something for their trouble.

The Lord told them to help me, they said.

The Lord is the very best emergency roadside assistance. I know that.

I’m thankful for it as a perfect ending for the terrible, no good, very bad day.

• Jason Deal is News Editor for The Blackshear Times. Reach him at jdeal@blacksheartimes.ne ws.

Editor, The Times, I am writing to inform the public that March 10, 2026, the Pierce County Board of Commissioners received notice that the City of Blackshear will assume responsibility for building permits and construction inspections within the city limits.

The Mayor and Council of the City of Blackshear adopted Resolution No. 2026-10 March 10, authorizing the Mayor to provide notice and coordinate the transition of these duties with Pierce County. Effective July 1, 2026, the City of Blackshear will be responsible for:

• issuing building permits within the municipal limits of Blackshear;

• conducting inspections required under the State Minimum Standard Construction Codes; and

• issuing Certificates of occupancy and certificates of completion for construction projects within the city.

The Pierce County Planning and Codes Office would like to inform residents and contractors that, beginning July 1, 2026, they should contact Blackshear City Hall for information regarding permits, inspections, and related services.

For additional information, please contact Blackshear City Hall at (912) 449-7000.

Thomas Sauls Interim County Manager Blackshear

Industrial park timber: Previously, at the regular May meeting, the board unanimously approved a bid by Beach Timber Company to harvest timber from the industrial park at a rate of $4 per ton for hardwood.

Work on the project began the Friday prior to the board’s regular June meeting (May 29). IDBA Executive Director Blake James said the project was estimated to take between 2-3 weeks to complete and at that time looked as if it might be done in closer to 2 weeks.

Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) certification application submitted: James informed the board that the final application for GRAD certification has at last been submitted to state officials in Atlanta.

The lengthy GRAD certification process, which involves various site preparation requirements and various tests and assessments, including core samples of soil, and clearance by experts saying the location is not archaeologically significant or will not negatively impact endangered animals or environments, was previously begun under the tenure of former Executive Director Matt Carter.

Pending approval of the application, the Pierce County Industrial Park will be shortlisted as a site ready for rapid development by project managers and business investors.

James says a an official response to the application is expected in about two weeks.

Budget for 2027: The board has not yet voted to approve the IDBA’s budget for fiscal year 2027.

James said that he is still working on the budget and has a few things left to finalize before presenting it to the board. The proposed budget was promised to be ready for review by the board’s next meeting in June.

Partnership update (Pierce County): County Manager Thomas Sauls delivered a brief update on various county-related issues, specifically the recent news that the county’s assessments would be going up.

Sauls said it was “nothing we were excited about” but explained it as a necessity to continue qualifying for funds from state and federal sources as well as public utilities. His best advice was for those impacted by the newly assessed property values to make sure they file for homestead exemptions.

Sauls also said there would be public hearings on the matter and wanted “to see all our Facebook fans, see their faces, the whites of their eyes.” The county manager said he is not one to get into arguments on social media and preferred directly engaging with them in a public forum.

Partnership update (Chamber of Commerce): Executive Director Christi Pitts was not available for the regular June meeting’s partnership update.

The chamber’s newest ambassador Joe Biagini was on hand to introduce himself to the board and outline some of his long term goals for the chamber, hoping to help make it a clearing house of local information and foster greater cooperation between chamber members. His first project, already underway, will be to completely overhaul the chamber’s welcome packet.

Originally from New York, Biagini is a veteran and the finance officer for the local AmVets chapter. Biagini has lived in Pierce County for the last three years and says he is eager to help the chamber and to become more involved in the local community.

Closed session: The IDBA board went into a 56 minute closed session for the purposes of discussing real estate. No action was taken following the session.

Minutes/Finances: The PCIDBA’s minutes and financials were both unanimously approved and entered into the record with no comments or questions.

Next meeting: The PCIDBA’s next meeting is tentatively scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 1 in the Chamber of Commerce boardroom, located in Blackshear’s Historic Train Depot, pending final approval.

Chairman Steven Paul said that, while he understands summer is a busy time for many member’s families, he feels once you miss or skip one meeting it gets easier to do it again and recommended having the meeting as usual.

Council comments: Council members made several comments. One asked if the brick room at Eagle Station has been completed. Mayor Dedi Thomas said chandeliers are going up air conditioning will be completed soon. In response to another question, it was reported no progress has been made on repairing a leak at the Patterson Gym. Another council member asked that the city’s generators be cranked regularly to make sure they are in working order in case of emergencies. Fire Chief Tyler Stokes assured the generators are cranked and allowed to run for a time each month. There was no old or new business at the meeting.

Department reports: Fire Chief/Public Works superintendent Stokes reported public works is continuity renovation work on the forestry unit building on Georgia Highway 32. The building will eventually house the city’s public works and police departments. Stokes also said public works has been busy working at the city’s recreation park, Patterson Lion’s Park, on Georgia Highway 32. He also reported the department is doing grass management during the summer and repaired several minor water leaks. Stokes said the fire department responded to five fire calls and three medical assist calls during May. Stokes said the fire department has five new recruits that have completed requirements for certification as firefighters. He also reported his department conducted four training events for a total of eight hours of accredited training. Police Chief Nick Strickland reported his department responded to a total of 19 calls in May including 12 calls for service, two traffic accidents, five traffic stops and two citations. City Clerk Laura Kate Dixon had nothing to report.

Brief meeting: The meeting was very brief, lasting only five minutes.

Next meeting: The next regular monthly meeting will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 9, at Eagle Station.

A meeting of the Southern Georgia Regional Commission (SGRC) Council is scheduled for 11 a.m. tomorrow, Thursday, June 25. The meeting will be held at the SGRC Waycross Office located at 1725 S. Georgia Parkway W., in Waycross.

An Executive Committee Meeting will be held prior to the regular meeting at 10 a.m. Both meetings are open to the public.

Applications sought for PCHS council Pierce County High School (PCHS) is currently accepting applications for the 20262028 School Council.

The council meets four times per year.

Those wishing to nominate someone or themselves to serve a two-year term, are asked to apply in person at the front desk this week. Deadline is Thursday, June 25.

PCHS accepts nominations/ applications from parents or business members.

If more than two candidates are nominated, there will be a vote Wednesday, July 8.

Those who nominate or self-nominate, can contact the school July 7 to see if there is a need for a vote.

To vote for a nominee, please go to the front desk at PCHS to cast your ballot by noon July 8.

Since 1997, Fortune has collaborated with Korn Ferry to determine the World’s Most Admired Companies list. This year 685 companies across 51 industries and 29 countries were analyzed. The top-rated companies were rated by executives, directors and analysts on nine criteria: innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, longterm investment, quality of products and services, and global competitiveness.

“We’re proud to be part of an organization recognized among Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies,” said Memorial Satilla CEO Damon Barrett. “Here in our community, that means showing up for our patients with compassion and delivering highquality care.”

Corey Aaron Allen, Francisco Javier Alvarez, James Arzate, James William Barbour, Marquis Landal Barron Jr., Christopher Thomas Beasley, Albenis Darbel Bermudez-Fernandez, Jacob Ryan Black, Tabitha Lynn Boyd, Timothy Glen Bratcher, Gavin Micheal Bryant, Sonoma Frandricous Bryant, Cherie Antoinette Bullard, James David Bullard, Deldrick Tyrone Burch, Darryl Wyane Byrd, Fred Chancellor Jr., Zebulan Thomas Chancey, Jorge Anibal Chulde, Randy Luther Clark, Michael Edwards Clopper, Layden Dewayne Cochran, Dalton James Colby, Avery James Courson, David Christian Craig, Joshua Trey Crews, Anthony Scott Crocker, Jose Luis Cruz, Angelo Patrick Dasher, Brandon Andrew Davenport, King Michael Davidson, Walter Lucious Dixon III, Joel Allen Douberly, Brady Douglas Dubose, Cameron Ellis Eblin, James Tommy Eidson Jr., Eric Anthony Emerson, Michael Scott Emmons, Danny Timothy Ensch Jr., Carlos Joaquin Garcia Espana, Latristany Brishea Faulk, Marylynn Kaitlynn Ferrell, Vaneshia Fields, Jermaine Andre Green, Jeremy Paul Griffin, Bob Christopher Harper, Walter Payne Hayes, Priscilla Marie Howe, James Adam Hunt, Johniel Johnson Jr., Tabitha Leann Jordahl, John Micaiah Jukkala, Christopher Glenn King Michael Brandon Lee, Tyler Scott Lee, Michael Allen Lightcap, Jett James Markwith, Dylan James Martin, Cecilio Jesus Martinez-Garcia, Nicholas Gene McCumbers, James Patrick McTier, Matthew Edwin Mobley, Roger Eugene Moody, Colanthia Dalphine Moore, Jacob Lee Morgan, Gabriel Earl Mortier, Thomas Eugene Mott II, Joseph Andrew Padgett Sr., Kelvin Javan Peterson, Kama Shante Petit, James Edward Presley, Lucas Neria Rebolledo, James Thomas Roach, Allen Russell Roberson, Isaac Walter Roberson, Tyler Joseph Robinson, Yoseph Xavier Robinson, Anthony David Roff, Jeannie Elaine Rouse, Hayden Chadwick Royal, Immanuel Runyon, Dwayne Curtis Ryan, Alfonzo Santiz, Donald Leslie Sellers Jr., William Edgar Sharpe, Jason Thomas Shivar, Gavyn Bruce Sillman, Stangabee Lee Smiley, April Lynn Smith, Stacey Nichole Steedley, Kevin Dewayne Stevenson, Tyler Shane Stokes, Brandon Michael Strickland, Roger Lee Taylor, Anthony Stuart Thigpen, Justin Caleb Thornton, Kenneth Dewayne Tillman, Levi Tolbert, Mark Anthony Tongel, Caleb Austin Trusdell, Matthew Blake Turner, Kevin Bradley Waldron, Matthew Devon Walsh, Malcolm Zabad Washington, Christina Joann Watkins, John Douglas Williams, Noah Monroe Williams, Ronnie Joe Williford and Mary Ann Young.

*Some inmates may be held locally for other law enforcement agencies.

Final approval of 2026-2027 budget: The Blackshear City Council held its second and final reading of the ordinance approving the city’s budget for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year. There was no public comment made during the allotted time prior to the budget being unanimously passed.

The city’s enterprise fund is budgeted for $2,635,500. The city’s special funds are budgeted for $7,045,750.

City cemetery camera ordinance: The agenda of the city’s June 2 work session was amended at the last minute to include a proposal for a new ordinance governing who can and cannot post cameras and other monitoring or recording devices in the city cemetery.

Following an incident about which not much has been made public, the city council found it in the best interest of the city and the public to officially outline a new policy regarding “the placement of unauthorized structures, equipment, cameras, signs and other personal property within municipal cemeteries which may interfere with cemetery operations, maintenance activities, public safety and the privacy of cemetery visitors.”

Effectively immediately upon the ordinance’s passing “no person shall place, erect, attach, install, maintain, conceal, or operate any camera, trail camera, video recording device, audio recording device, motion-activated camera, surveillance equipment, monitoring device, or similar electronic equipment within any municipal cemetery without the prior written authorization of the City of Blackshear.”

Any such devices discovered in any municipal cemetery under the city’s authority can be removed at any time without prior notice.

City selects firm for County Farm Rd. well: In a unanimous vote, the city appointed Hofstadter & Associates, Inc. of Macon to provide engineering services for a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Grant for the County Farm Road well project.

Mayor Keith Brooks said the council reviewed all bids for the project and graded each one based on a set of criteria to determine the best choice. The scoring was based upon the various firms’ ability to provide required disciplines, relevant project experience, knowledge of the community, staff expertise and experience with federally funded projects.

Hofstadter & Associates, Inc. received the highest overall ranking and was determined to be the most qualified to provide the required engineering services.

Purchase of new tractor loader postponed: The council unanimously voted to temporarily table a vote on the purchase of a new compact tractor loader.

Mayor Brooks said the council required more time to evaluate the available bid documents for the prospective purchase before making a final decision.

Department Reports Blackshear Police Dept. Report: BPD reported 14 vehicular accidents in the month of May, 4 with injuries. Five warnings, 115 citations and 2 ordinance violation were recorded.

There were only 7 arrests in May, all adults, which still is a 75% increase from May, 2025.

Blackshear Volunteer Fire Dept. Report: BFD responded to 30 different events in May. BFD workers and volunteers completed a total of 210 cumulative hours of activities and training.

Public Works Dept: Last month, the department conducted 30 water and sewer locates and 3 sewer main repairs. There were also 2 meter and meter box replacements and 3 meter lid and valve replacements. There were 60 leak checks, locating 45. There were also 25 read checks, 20 close outs, 38 service cut offs, 25 services cut back on and 20 new consumers connected in May. There was one incident of consumer tampering during the reporting period. Public works also performed routine grass maintenance, replaced damaged street signs, conducted routine cleaning of storm drains, repaired potholes and performed routine limb trimming and did routine grass maintenance at the cemetery.

Main Street Program: The Main Street/Better Hometown program had $18,758.53 dollars in operational expenses during May. Five events were held in the downtown area, but the primary event was Beats and Eats, featuring the Zac Brown tribute band 20 Ride. The total estimated attendance for all three events was approximately 1,200 and a total of 80 volunteer hours were estimated to have been used.

Two new businesses opened during the reporting period, Rouse Realty and Tranquil Pines.

Attendance: All members of the city council except Mitch Hall and City Attorney Adam Ferrell were present for the regular meeting.

Next meeting: The council will hold its next work session, meeting at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 2 and its next regular meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 9.

• Phone: (912) 282-7473

mailto:bertiecornerblktime23b7@gmail.com

Hello!

Summertime is here! Are you ready for the heat, rain, hurricanes or even a tornado? It is time to get your emergency plan together and stock up on water, canned goods and batteries. Remember when using candles to be very careful. We do these things when the lights are out. We will always remember Hurricane Helene. We were not ready.

It is summer time and with it we are doing all kinds of activities. Let’s be safe and watch out for our children.

*****

To our community: To the family of Colleen L. (Brown) Noble: We will keep your family in our prayers. Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, also believe in me. John 14:1 *****

Independence Day is coming up Saturday, July 4. It will be the 250th anniversary of the United States.

*****

Session Hill Community Center Summer program will be held from 10 a.m.-noon every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from now until July 31. The theme is Learn, play, grow, succeed! Programs will be held at the center located at 3105 Allen Ave., Blackshear. Activities include financial literacy, games and light refreshments. Volunteers are also encouraged to participate in the program. Thanks to our sponsors Prime South Bank and Owl Care. Come learn, grow and have fun this summer! There will be a special incentive for participants who successfully complete the entire summer program. They will be awarded a trip to Summer Waves Jekyll Island. For more information contact Stephon Collins 404-492-2632.

*****

Pierce County Concerned Citizens monthly meeting is held every first Monday of each month at 623 Sycamore Street, Blackshear.

*****

Everyone is invited to worship with us at Faith Temple Holiness Church Inc, 218 Hall Street, Blackshear. Services as follows: 1st Sunday early service is at 8:30. Breakfast will be served. Services will be every Sunday 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sunday. Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. Morning services at 11 a.m. Looking forward to see you at worship. Pastor is Cynthia Welch.

*****

Ministers Alliance: All pastors, elders and ministers of God are asked to meet for prayer at 9 a.m. every first Monday of the month at Southern Roost on U.S. Highway 84, Blackshear.

*****

Bible study is held at 10 a.m. every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Rainge Funeral Home, 505 Ware Street Blackshear. All are wel Kingdom Faith Church has services every Sunday at 10 a.m. and Bible Study every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Kingdom Faith is located at 6014 Homestead Road in Blackshear. Elder Tony Reynolds is the pastor.

*****

Your entire family is invited to worship with Fourth Mount Olive Church during weekly worship services. We are located at 900 Yeomans Street, Blackshear. We are blessed to be able to provide opportunities for all to learn how to love God and each other as we worship God our Father, Jesus Our Savior and the Holy Spirit our Comforter and Guide. We start promptly at 10 a.m. Come see for yourself, you will be glad you did.

*****

Positive Thoughts: You can’t make a cloudy day a sunny day, but you can embrace it and decide it’s going to be good day after all.

*****

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

— Psalms 46:1

*****

If you have any news for Bertie’s corner, please call me at (912) 282-7473 or email bertiecornerblktime23b7@ mailto:blktime23b7@gmail.com gmail.com.

I’ll be glad to hear from you and write up your news.

AMVETS exists to enhance the quality of life for all veterans, their families and survivors. Their motto is “veterans serving veterans.”

Membership in AMVETS is open to anyone who honorably served or is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves.

For more information, please contact Commander Guylee Washington at guyleewashington@ mailto:leewashington@gmail.com gmail.com or call 912-514-1093.

AMVETS meets 6 p.m. every first Monday at 200 SW Central Ave in Blackshear. College of Charleston

Jackson Gambrell of Blackshear, recently graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Accounting from the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC.

Gambrell was also named to the College of Charleston Spring 2026 dean’s list.

Students named to the president’s list are Rodrigo Alcaraz, Lanie Dawson, Danielle Brooker and Allison Lanier.

To qualify for the president’s list, a student must earn 12 or more credit hours (or six or more credit hours in summer) in courses at the 1000 level or above and achieve a term gradepoint average of 4.0.

Students named to the dean’s list are Ethan Arnold, Zachary Myers and Bethzy Mendez.

To qualify for the dean’s list, a student must earn a 12 or more credit hours (or six or more credit hours in summer) in courses at the 1000 level or above and achieve a term GPA of 3.50 to 3.99.

Sweat Memorial Baptist Church’s Choir and Orchestra will present “Patriotic Praise” Sunday, June 28, in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

It will be featured at the 10:30 a.m. worship service.

The program will feature a choir and orchestra presentation of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”, a salute to the armed forces and Indivisible. The service will close with soloist Sarah Tatum singing “God Bless America”.

The church is located at 510 West Blackshear Avenue in Waycross.

A nursery is provided. The public is invited to attend.

For more information, call (912) 283-7270.

Jaelyn Taylor of Blackshear made the dean’s list.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, a student must earn a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Benjamin Crews of Blackshear and Katherine Denison of Patterson made the Spring 2026 academic achievement list.

To be eligible for the Academic Achievement List, a student must previously earn at least 12 credit hours at GSW, be enrolled in 3 to 11 hours of courses, and earn a 3.5 or higher GPA.

Crews earned a bachelor of business administration in accounting summa cum laude and Abigayle Smith of Blackshear, earned a master’s degree in business administration at the end of the Spring 2026 semester.

Georgia Southwestern State University is a public, four-year unit of the University System of Georgia with approximately 4,000 students.

New Hampshire State University

Two Blackshear residents were named to the spring 2026 president’s list at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) in Manchester, NH.

Kathryn Bytnar and Mary Riggins, both of Blackshear, were named to the president’s list.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum gradepoint average of 3.7 and above for the reporting term are named to the president’s list. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16week term or paired 8week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

SNHU is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 93-year history of educating traditionalaged students and working adults.

University of North Georgia

Travis Lariscy of Blackshear made the spring 2026 dean’s list at the University of North Georgia (UNG) in Dahlonega for achieving at least a 3.5 grade-point average, carrying 12 or more credit hours in one semester and having no grade lower than B.

Lariscy was among those to earn degrees from UNG in spring 2026, with a bachelor of arts in modern languages and a concentration in Spanish language and literature.

The University of North Georgia is a University System of Georgia leadership institution and is The Military College of Georgia. With 20,317 students, the University of North Georgia is one of the state's largest public universities. The university offers more than 100 programs of study ranging from certificate and associate degrees to doctoral programs.

Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville has announced its honors recognition for spring 2026 term.

Students native to Pierce who made the president’s list from the College of Health Sciences are Gracee Richey and Mary Emma Moore, both of Blackshear.

Averette Steedley, of Blackshear was named to the president’s list for the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology.

College of Arts & Sciences students named to the president’s list are Randy Mcintosh, Benjamin Stovall and Hannah Gilleon, all of Blackshear.

To earn distinction on the president’s list, undergraduate students must earn a 4.0 semester GPA while completing at least 12 hours of coursework.

Khiya Williams, of Bristol, was named to the dean’s list for the College of Arts & Sciences.

Ellie Mattox, of Blackshear, was named to the dean’s list for the John H. Lounsbury College of Education.

To earn distinction on the dean’s list, undergraduate students must achieve a minimum 3.5 semester GPA while completing at least 12 hours of coursework.

Christy Markette, of Blackshear, recently participated in Georgia College & State University's spring 2026 commencement ceremonies recently in Milledgeville.

A master’s candidate in the College of Arts & Sciences, Markette majored in Music Education.

South Georgia State College

South Georgia State College, with campuses in Waycross and Douglas, has announced its academic recognition lists for spring semester 2026.

Pierce County residents honored include: President’s list: Sarah Chancey, Carrie E. Crews, Emma K. Dyal, MaKayla A. Fields, Kelsey M. Fuentes, Arlette M. Gonzalez, Trent J. Griffin, Macy B. Herrin, Jones O. Herrin, Marleigh A. Johnson, Zoie E. Johnson, Natalie A. Johnson, Ezekiel G. Mattox, Meaveen McKeon, Kierstin N. Robinson, Dalton J. Robson, Jessica Smart, Aaron A. Smith, Kalyn M. Strickland, Emma F. Thomas, Amber L. Turner, McKenzi F. Whitley and Zoey M. Yarbrough.

Students enrolled in 12 or more semester hours of study with a grade point average of 4.0 are placed on the president’s list for the semester.

Dean’s list: Kyle S. Bowen, Ella G. Briscoe, Dathan L. Cochran, Ashlee Crosby, Evelyn J. Daskam, Elizabeth Griner, William B. Inman, Saylor A. Kicklighter, Preston D. Lloyd, Carson Long, Jessica Long, Anslee C. Neugent, Avalise Nolen, Kerri Parr, Ethan Ritch, Nathan D. Rupright, Allyson L. Sapp, Kaitlyn E. Sapp, Lily M. Spivey, Cole Tanner and Adeline E. Tuttle.

Students with a semester average of 3.5 to 3.9 on 12 or more semester hours of study are placed on the dean’s list for that semester.

Academic Honors List: Payton M. Beam, Jade R. Bennett, Rainee G. Bennett, Lucy E. Bond, Samuel G. Braddock, Holly M. Broadhead, Holly A. Carbaugh, Rachel A. Cason, MaryBeth E. Chancey, Amanda Davis, Madilynne D. Distin, Mollie K. Dixon, Macy C. Dowling, Caden M. Edwards, Ellie Everson, Lyla R. Gerard, Callie D. Gill, Tobi R. Howell, Griffin D. Hull, Addie E. Johnson, Byron Lin, Hannah C. Millwood, Mackenzie Minchew, Gabrielle L. Miranda, Davin P. Nolen, Ana Claire Peacock, Alli E. Perkins, Abigail E. Rozier, Emma Rusev, Austin M. Sikes, Tiffney P. Starling, Jalynn R. Strickland, Riley E. Thomas, Ansley C. Tippins, Ryder C. Tippins, Taya M. Vaughns and Zachary Winn.

Students enrolled in 5 to 11 semester hours of study with a grade point average of 3.5 or better are listed on the academic honors list for that semester.

This two-man scramble tournament will include lunch, range balls and cart fees with cash prizes awarded to the top gross and net teams. Registration begins 11 a.m.. Lunch will be served at noon and the shotgun start begins 1 p.m.. A silent auction will also be held during the event.

Businesses looking to increase their community visibility while supporting an important cause can choose from several sponsorship levels ranging from par dponsor ($1,000) to vhampion dponsor ($7,500), with benefits including sponsor recognition, social media promotion, hole signage, team entries and more.

All proceeds benefit Magnolia House and the services they provide to our community. The sponsorship deadline is July

10.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to register a team, contact Magnolia House at 912-5848296 oremail mhcc@magnoliahouseshelter.com.

U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock (D, Georgia) announced nearly $90 million in additional relief for Georgia last week. Satilla REMC received the largest amount among the 11 counties and other entities receiving funds.

The funds are in addition to the $6 million in recovery projects the cooperative has already received.

To date, Senator Warnock has helped secure over a billion dollars in disaster related federal funding owed to the state.

Satilla REMC serves Pierce County. Much of its power distribution system was destroyed by Hurricane Helene.

FEMA also recently approved an additional $10.3 million in funding to support disaster recovery in Georgia.

The funding comes from FEMA’s Public Assistance program, which has already provided $1.5 billion to help Georgia recover and rebuild after Hurricane Helene. The Public Assistance program provides funds for state and local government response and recovery work at no less than a 75% federal cost share.

Elvis Presley will soon be back in Waycross. The Okefenokee Heritage Center is commemorating the 70th anniversary of “The King’s” February 22, 1956, Waycross appearance with a special presentation.

OHC is bringing Elvis Tribute Artist and Georgia native Jordan Poole to the CC McCray City Auditorium Saturday, September 26, for an evening of old-time rock and roll.

Advanced tickets for the 70th Anniversary “Elvis Returns” event are available for $30 at the Okefenokee Heritage Center located at 1460 N. Augusta Ave., or online at www.okefenokeeh eritagecenter.org. Tickets will be $40 at the door. Doors will open at 5 p.m. The opening act (TBA) will begin at 6 p.m., and Elvis will take the stage at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 912-285-4260 or email okeheritage@ gmail. com .

Poole, who hails from Sylvester, has won several awards for his portrayal of Presley, most recently being named the 2025 Tupelo Ultimate Elvis Champion in the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo, Mississippi.

Elvis’ stop in Waycross was part of a grueling tour during which he performed “Baby Let’s Play House,” “Tutti Frutti,” “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Blue Suede Shoes.”

BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Contact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be (scheduled at a later date). If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. /s/ Michelle B. Deal, Chief Clerk of the Probate Court By: Michelle B. Deal, Chief Clerk of the Probate Court 3550 W US-84 31 Blackshear, GA 31516 912-449-2029 C/FR/6-10=7-1/413 |

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF PIERCE COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA IN RE: ESTATE OF MARK ALLEN JACOBSEN,

DECEASED ) ESTATE No: 2026-ES-036 PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION NOTICE TO: All Interested Parties and to whom it may concern: KRISTINA JACOBSEN has petitioned for KRISTINA JACOBSEN to be appointed administrator of the estate of MARK ALLEN JACOBSEN, deceased, of said county. (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, and/or grant of certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12261.) All interested persons are hereby notified to show cause why said petition should not be granted. All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections, and must be filed with the Court on or before July 6, 2026.

BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Contact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. /s/ Moye Howard, Judge of the Probate Court By: Michelle B. Deal Chief Clerk of the Probate Court 3550 Hwy 84 West, Suite 1 Blackshear, GA 31516 Address (912) 449-2029 P/5-27=7-1/404

Three Pierce County residents were among 4,000 students who earned certificates or degrees from Georgia State University in Atlanta during the Spring 2026 semester at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students were recognized during the university's 111th commencement exercises in May 2026.

Graduates from Blackshear include: Alexus Shaw, earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, John Cason, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Maggie Payne, earning a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree with a concentration in Arts & Sciences.

Kenan Grant of Blackshear was named to the Spring 2026 president’s list at Georgia State University in Atlanta.

To be eligible for the president’s list, degree- seeking students must have earned a GPA of at least 4.0 for a minimum of nine semester hours of academic credit taken at Georgia State during the fall or spring term with no incompletes for the semester. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for all classes taken at Georgia State.

Alexis Cason and Makayla St. Val, both of Blackshear, were named to dean’s list.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, degreeseeking students must have earned a GPA of at least 3.5 for a minimum of nine semester hours of academic credit taken at Georgia State during the fall or spring term with no incompletes for the semester. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for all classes taken at Georgia State.