Bennett was named as Superior Court Judge for the Waycross Judicial Circuit Monday and becomes the first woman to hold the position in the circuit.

Governor Brian Kemp made the announcement Monday afternoon.

Word of the appointment leaked Friday and was published on a Douglas news website, but The Times received official word of the appointment from the governor’s press office Monday afternoon.

Bennett and Bacon County State Court Judge and Attorney William J. “Sam” Edgar were named as finalists for the position in August.

Judge Gillis retired February 5 after serving 25 years on the bench, including the last 18 as chief judge. Judge Jeffrey Kight succeeded him as chief judge since he has the most seniority. Gillis’ position on the bench is vacant, however.

Bennett and Edgar were interviewed by the Georgia Judicial Nominating Commission last month and the commission recommended them to Governor Brian Kemp.

Governor Kemp then conducted interviews with Bennett and Edgar and made the appointment.

Bennett currently serves as district attorney for the Waycross Judicial Circuit in 2022 and is running unopposed for a second term in this year’s election.

Bennett will fill the position left vacant by the February resignation and retirement of Chief Judge Dwayne Gillis.

Prior to being elected District Attorney, she was as a Senior Assistant District Attorney in the Waycross office, serving as the lead trial attorney on major felony cases. Before working in Waycross, Bennett prosecuted in the Brunswick Judicial Circuit and in central Florida, where she handled a range of felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile offenses. During this time, she developed a strong passion for prosecuting crimes against children.

Additionally, Bennett worked as a civil attorney in both Georgia and Florida, focusing on family law, contracts, civil litigation and alternative dispute resolution. She has also served as a court-appointed guardian ad litem.

Originally from Mississippi, Bennett graduated with honors from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2006 and from the University of Mississippi School of Law with a Juris Doctor in 2008. She and her husband of 18 years, Jim, a Pierce County native, have three children. They are active members of First Baptist Church. Bennett is a member of the Waycross Exchange Club and Waycross Bar Association, an organization for local attorneys.

With Bennett’s appointment to the bench, the Waycross Judicial Circuit’s District Attorney position is now vacant.

A special election or gubernatorial appointment will fill that position. There is no word on when that will take place.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend. A business meeting will be held at 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch which will be served at 12:45 P-m.

Bring your favorite covered dish and beverage. Meats (ribs, chicken, sausage) and ice will be provided as well as utensils for eating.

For more information contact Barry Lee at 912614-1036.

Deal Family

The 56th annual J.C. Deal family reunion will take place Saturday, October 17, at the Long Branch Community Center, 3419 Long Branch Rd., Bristol, in Appling County.

The center will open at 11 a.m. for those who would like to come early and visit with relatives. A short business meeting will convene at noon with lunch to follow.

All those attending are asked to bring a covered dish and something to drink. Plates, cups, eating utensils and paper goods will be provided.

For more information, call (803) 645-4306 or email jkdrew2@msn.com. mailto:jkdrew2@msn.com

Editor, The Times: The use of Flock (or any other automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras) for surveillance is a violation of the 4th amendment of the U.S. constitution. It doesn’t matter if law enforcement officers (LEO’s) deem it as the greatest tool for law enforcement that has ever been created. The fact remains it is an unlawful invasion of personal rights guaranteed by the fourth amendment. Blatant capturing of surveillance images/ video without probable cause is akin to a fictional society in the movie Minority Report, where people were hunted down based on probability or premise of committing a crime. There have been countless horror stories of people across the country mistakenly accosted by Gestapo LEOs because a camera system identified their vehicle as “possibly” suspicious activity attached to crime. Unfortunately, machines and AI specifically make mistakes quite often and the recourse from the LEO community is “Oh well our Flock camera made a mistake”.

LEOs have an almost impossible job to do. I understand that and I sympathize with their frustration. But, in the end it’s their job to protect and serve, not predict and acost.

I urge the community to continue to oppose the use of the ALPR camera systems in our area. The concerns about our rights are just the tip of the iceberg. Other questions remain with concerns to the data that is captured by the systems. Our departments do not own the data nor do they own the cameras. My concerns are where is the data stored? Who has access to it? Flock systems are privately held companies and therefore retain rights to the cameras and the data it captures. What is preventing access from the highest bidder? These are just some questions I’m not sure that our community was presented with at the time of the adoption of the cameras.

I’ll end this with the 4th amendment: The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Eddie Murray Blackshear

That’s all I really heard. It gave me an air of honor and dignity and made me sit up straight and try to assume a regal posture — or at least as best I could while lying down.

At last, finally, maybe I would get a little recognition for my work as a journalist.

Sometimes it probably doesn’t look recognitionworthy with grammatical and spelling errors on occasion.

I have no delusions about being perfect. My errors are in black and white on the page for perpetuity.

But, really, honestly, I do try to do my very best, my dead-level best, to be timely, accurate and fair in my news writing and reporting.

I know some of you don’t agree and that’s fine. I’ve always said if the complaints and criticisms are even on both sides, I’ve done my job.

Sometimes, folks let you know rather bluntly that, for lack of a better description, “you suck”.

• There’s the time someone hoped I met an untimely demise because I reported her husband was thinking about running for public office. Apparently, he had not told her.

• Or, the guy who called up here and announced he was going to come punch me, because I reported Pierce County installed metal detectors at the courthouse and the Nichols Street Annex. I was just the messenger, but he was fanatical about the second amendment.

• Or, there was the time, I was told I was not a minister and probably not even a Christian simply because I reported that you can’t deny a zoning request because you don’t like, don’t agree with, are not the same race, religion or creed of the applicant. Last time I checked, that was still accurate with the U.S. Constitution. And, I know the Word says: Love one another. It’s not optional.

I have kidded myself and everyone around me for years that all of this reveals the immense power that I have — through the ink pen and keyboard. Having fun with it, I have declared myself the “King of all Media.”

In all these cases, I’m just the messenger. I have opinions and ideas about how things should be done, but I’m only one man. My vote counts the same as yours.

But, that day, I was hearing validation of that “king of all media” moniker.

“You need a crown.”

It would have been funny if my jaw hadn’t hurt so bad. Not just pain, but the kind of pain that you could feel down in your toes — all radiating from a bad molar in the back of my mouth.

My dentist, Dr. Hugh, is a good guy. He is cousin of Bulldog legend Stetson Bennett IV, and he was telling me I needed a crown.

I thought maybe being the king — of all media and otherwise — would not only entitle me to expensive dental work, but maybe even some cash incentives, which as the late great Yogi Berra used to say, “is just as good as money”.

But, no. My dentist told me that it would be expensive to have said bad molar crowned. It had to be done and I appreciate he and his staff looking out for me. They were good to me.

I managed to gargle warm salty water, use a mouth rinse and take ibuprofen for the next seven days until I could get it seen about and fixed.

Mercifully, that day finally arrived. My friend Dr. Hugh told me the needle was going to hurt and the gum was going to be sore. Neither was true. I told him — and it was the honest truth — that even after the needle and the jackhammer he used on the tooth — my mouth felt the best it had in a full week when he put my teeth to sleep. It felt instantly better the next day.

And, for all that pain and trouble and effort, I ended up with a brand new crown.

Not only am I the king of all media, I now have the bling to show for it.

I just have to open up and say Ah! for you to see it.

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

Those first three words are important: “From that time.” From what time? What happened that caused people who had been following Jesus to suddenly turn around and leave Him?

Earlier in John 6, a great multitude followed Jesus because they had seen His miracles. As the day progressed, the people became hungry. With only five barley loaves and two small fishes, Jesus miraculously fed more than 5,000 men, besides women and children. Everyone ate until they were filled and 12 baskets of fragments remained.

The people were so impressed that they wanted to make Jesus their king.

They loved a Jesus who healed the sick. They loved a Jesus who multiplied bread. They loved a Jesus who met their physical needs.

But Jesus knew their hearts.

The next day they came looking for Him again, and Jesus said, “Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled” (John 6:26).

They wanted another meal. Jesus wanted to give them eternal life.

They were interested in the bread He could provide, but Jesus told them, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35).

As Jesus continued teaching, His words became more difficult for them to accept. Finally, many responded, “This is an hard saying; who can hear it?” Jesus asked them, “Doth this offend you?” That became the turning point.

The crowd that wanted to crown Him when He filled their stomachs began abandoning Him when He confronted their hearts.

They liked His provision, but not His preaching. They wanted His miracles, but not His message. They enjoyed His benefits, but rejected His truth. They wanted what was in His hand more than they wanted Him.

Then we read those heartbreaking words: “From that time many of

his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.”

Jesus turned to the 12 disciples who remained and asked, “Will ye also go away?” That question still deserves an answer today.

It is easy to follow Jesus when the bread is multiplying. It is different when His Word begins confronting us. It is easy to praise God when prayers are answered exactly as we hoped. But what happens when the answer is no? What happens when we do not understand what God is doing? What happens when Scripture challenges our lifestyle, attitude, priorities or desires?

Will we also go away? Peter gave one of the greatest answers in Scripture: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.”

Peter did not say he understood everything Jesus had taught. He simply knew who Jesus was.

And perhaps that is the difference.

Some followed Jesus primarily because of what He could give them. Peter followed because he knew who Jesus was.

Think about everything Jesus has already done for you.

Think about the prayers He has answered, the needs He has supplied, the valleys through which He has carried you, the tears He has seen and the mercy He has shown.

Most importantly, think about Calvary.

Romans 5:8 says, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

When we were guilty, He loved us. When we were lost, He came seeking us. When we could not save ourselves, He gave Himself for us.

So when life becomes difficult, do not leave Him. When you do not understand, do not leave Him. When His Word corrects you, do not leave Him. When others walk away, you stay.

Jesus still asks, “Will ye also go away?” After all He has done for us, may our answer be Peter’s:

“Lord, to whom shall we go?” There is nowhere better to go, than to Jesus!

Jimmy Barrett is a resident of Blackshear and pastor of Southside Baptist Church in Waycross.

The designation was announced last week by Pierce County Industrial and Building Authority (IDBA), in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD).

The GRAD Certification program helps establish a portfolio of pre-qualified industrial sites across Georgia which are “shovel ready” for new business and facilities to establish themselves.

The industrial park’s new “GRAD Select” classification provides an additional seal of approval that can make it especially attractive for future industrial development. The Pierce location is one of only 20 across the state to feature rail access.

“We are thrilled that the Pierce County Industrial Rail Park has been approved as a GRAD Select site. We believe this is one of the premier sites in the state that lies within one of the premier communities in our area,” said IDBA Executive Director Blake James.

The Pierce County Industrial Rail Park site is familiar to most local residents, located directly off U.S. Highway 84 and immediately identifiable by new signage installed this year. The site boasts approximately 360 acres with an existing rail spur off the CSX mainline with six-days-a-week rail service. The site is less than 50 miles from the coastal Interstate Highway system and the Port of Brunswick.

“Pierce County is open for business. Pierce offers a strategic location, competitive incentives and a streamlined permitting process to support the growth of almost any enterprise,” said PCIDBA Board Chairman Steven Paul. “Investors and project managers looking for a seamless experience with the resources and support they need to succeed should partner with us.”

To qualify for GRAD status, a site must meet the program’s due diligence standards, be reviewed by a third party and earn the final approval of a board of advisors comprised of public and private sector economic development professionals. The GRAD Select status indicates a site such as Pierce’s industrial park has met or exceeds even more rigorous certification requirements.

For more information about the Pierce County Industrial Rail Park, please visit pcgeorgia.com/pcida-about-us/

The Lady Bears (16-4 overall, 5-2 region) had their four-game winning streak snapped Monday, September 14 with a 9-4 road at to Class AA 10th-ranked Jeff Davis.

PCHS came right back a day later handing region foe Tattnall County (5-11, 0-6) an 80 victory in five innings. Pierce County finished off the Lady Warriors, who have dropped four straight, winning 15-7 in Reidsville Thursday, September 17.

The Lady Bears square off with top-ranked and unbeaten Appling County this week. They played Game 1 of the series Tuesday, September 22 in Baxley. The finale is Thursday, September 24 in Bearville at 6 p.m.

PCHS travels Monday, September 28 to Lyons to face Robert Toombs Academy at 6 p.m. The Lady Bears close out the week with a home-and-home series against region foe Islands. Pierce County is on the road Tuesday, September 29 with the Lady Sharks visiting Thursday, October 1.

No. 10 Jeff Davis .............9 No. 5 Lady Bears ............4

HAZLEHURST — The host Lady Yellow Jackets used three three-run rallies to beat PCHS in the non-region affair.

Jeff Davis overcame a 1-0 deficit with a three-run third in taking the lead for good at 3-1. The Lady Yellow Jackets extended the margin to 6-1 through four innings.

After the Lady Bears cut the deficit to 6-3 in the fifth, Jeff Davis plated three runs in the sixth for a 9-3 lead.

Pierce County broke through with a run in the third inning to claim a 1-0 advantage. Riley Chambliss (1-for-3) drew a twoout walk, stole second and scored on Kaylee Figueroa’s (2for-3) ensuing double.

Jeff Davis responded with three runs against Bailey Barboza (3 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 0 ER, 0 K, 1 BB, 1 HBP) taking advantage of three consecutive two-out errors, the last scoring two runs, in opening up a 3-1 lead.

The Lady Jackets’ three runs in the fourth were off reliever Sofia White (3 IP, 3 H, 6 R, 3 ER, 0 K, 3 BB, 1 HBP). The home team scored on a bases loaded sacrifice fly and a twoout error, which allowed two runs to cross the plate for a fiverun advantage.

PCHS plated two runs in the top of the fifth. Maelee Childers (1-for-3) singled and raced to third on Lanie Mai’s (3-for-4) double. Both scored on a throwing error by the Jeff Davis catcher cutting the margin to 63.

Jeff Davis put the game away with a three-run sixth getting a leadoff homer and a two-out, two-run single with the bases loaded.

The Lady Bears plated a final run in the top of the seventh. Mai reached on a one-out, infield hit After stealing second and third with two outs, she trotted home on Figueroa’s single for the 9-4 margin.

No. 5 Lady Bears...........................8 Tattnall County.............................0

BEARVILLE — Barboza and White combined on a two-hit shutout in the region matchup with the Lady Warriors.

Barboza (3.1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 K, 4 BB, 1 WP) worked into the fourth inning leaving with one out and the bases loaded. White (1.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 3 K, 0 BB) worked out of the jam sitting down five of the six batters she faced.

A leadofff error set up PCHS’s two run third inning. After Caden Coldren (1-for-2) reached on the miscue, Childers (1-for-2) slapped a single.

Following a groundout by Mai (1-for-3) advancing the runners, Chambless drove home Coldren with a groundout. Figueroa (2-for-3) lined the ensuing pitch into center driving home Childers for a 2-0 lead.

After White escaped the bases loaded jam in the top of the fourth, the Lady Bears doubled their margin with a two-run rally to build a 4-0 lead.

Leeanna Davis (2-for-3) started the inning with a single, stole second and scored on Coldren’s one-out double. Coldren stole third and scored on Childer’s groundout for the four-run advantage.

PCHS ended the game in the bottom of the fifth pushing home four runs for the “mercy rule” win.

Figueroa followed a Chambless leadoff walk with a two-run homer, her teamleading fifth of the season, upping the margin to 6-0. After a four-pitch walk to Parker Sinclair, who was removed for courtesy runner Lilly Wright, Davis lined a single to right with both players advancing an extra base on the throw back to the infield.

Hope Larson’s (1-for-3) ensuing runscoring single and a sacrifice fly by Coldren ended the game.

No. 5 Lady Bears..........................15 Tattnall County .............................7

REIDSVILLE — PCHS scored runs in all but one inning racing out to an early 8-0 lead en route to completing the series win.

The Lady Bears scored three times in the first inning to get the game started. Mai (3-for-4) singled, stole second and scored on an error for the quick 1-0 lead.

Sinclair (1-for-5) reached on an error to keep the inning alive. A single by Shelby Braddy (3-for-5) and an error scored White, courtesy running for Sinclair. A single by Davis (3-for-5) plated Braddy.

Mai raced around the bases scoring on a two-out, inside-the-park homer in the second for a 4-0 advantage.

PCHS plated four runs in the fourth to extend the lead to 8-0. Chambless (2-for-5) singled home two runs, stole second and scored on Figueroa’s (2-for-4) triple. Figueroa scored on Sinclair’s groundout to cap the inning.

Tattnall County scored six times in the fourth. against Chambless (.2, 1 H, 5 R, 0 ER, 0 K, 3 BB) and Barboza (6.1, 4 H, 2 R, 0 ER, 4 K, 0 BB, 1 HBP) to close the deficit to 8-6.

The Lady Bears responded with the next seven runs over the final three innings. PCHS scored twice in the fifth after two outs and nobody on base with a run-scoring single by Mai and an RBI double by Chambless pushing the lead to 10-6.

A three-run sixth extended the margin to 13-6. Larson (1-for-5) lined a two-run single with Mai’s groundout two batters later scoring Childers (2-for-4).

Figueroa led off the seventh with a homer, her sixth of the season and second in the series. Coldren (1-for-5) delivered a two-out, run-scoring single to finish off the PCHS scoring.

The Lady Warriors took advantage of a leadoff error in the bottom half of the inning to score.

BEARVILLE — Secondranked Pierce County tuned up for its upcoming battle against top-ranked Toombs County with a dominating 48-6 home win over Johnson-Savannah in the Region 3-AAA opener on Recreation Night.

Senior Jae’Veon Williams tied a school record with six touchdowns, all in the first half, finishing with 301 yards on 17 carries for his third consecutive 300-yard game. Williams scored on runs of 60, 34, 13, 1, 51 and 41 yards to tie the mark of D.J. Bell set October 21, 2022 in a 49-14 home win vs. Windsor Forest, also scoring all six times in the first half.

Williams’ first score set the school record for consecutive games with a rushing touchdown at 16 besting Bell’s mark of 15. Williams also holds the school mark with 16 consecutive games of scoring at least two touchdowns.

The victory marks the Bears’ eighth (five straight) 4-0 start in nine years and their 12th consecutive win in region openers since a 17-16 loss at Cook High in 2014.

PCHS raced out to a 480 halftime lead en route to a second game (55-0 vs. Coosa Christian) being shortened in the second half. Friday’s game was cut to two 10-minute quarters with a running clock. The Bears’ season opener in Gadsden, AL, was played with two sixminute periods and a running clock.

“I’m glad we didn’t overlook them (Atomsmashers) in the first half,” said head coach Ryan Herring of the potential trap game sandwiched between Class AA 10thranked Swainsboro and top-ranked and unbeaten Toombs County. “It’s easy to look ahead and play sloppy, but we (coaches) challenged the players all week to keep their foot on the gas, and they did that.”

The offensive pedal was pressed for the opening 24 minutes. PCHS scored on all seven of its first-half possessions to build a 480 halftime advantage.

Pierce County piled up 326 yards on just 18 snaps. The Bears finished with 366 yards on 26 plays and faced just one third down play all night, that coming with a running clock near the sixminute mark in the final period.

The Bears’ defense allowed just 11 yards in the first half, forcing six punts which included a block by Noah Delaney. Four of Johnson’s seven first-half offensive series were three-and-outs.

“The starters didn’t give up a point,” said Herring. “That’s always a good thing. The only negative thing from tonight was guys playing just one half. You don’t get in better shape playing just one half. A positive to that is we got some No. 2s on film so we (coaches) can look and see where they are at.”

The Atomsmashers’ lone score came on a 63yard pass play in the third snap of the third quarter against backups.

The game was over one play after the coin toss. PCHS won and opted to receive.

On the game’s first snap, Williams bounced through a hole at left tackle and sped 60 yards scoring just 20 seconds in. Peyton Perez hit on the first of his six PATs for a 7-0 lead with 11:40 showing on the clock.

The score steadily got worse from there.

After the first of six punt attempts, PCHS strung together its longest possession of the night with a six-play, 60-yard drive in 2:41. Dylan Johnson covered the final 23 yards off left guard going in untouched on his only carry upping the lead to 13-0 with 6:35 remaining in the first quarter. Perez doinked the PAT off the left upright.

Johnson-Savannah’s first three-and-out was followed by a 53-yard scoring series. Williams carried on all four plays with the final attempt a 34-yard jaunt off left tackle with 2:24 to play in the opening stanza. Perez split the uprights extending the margin to 20-0.

Delaney’s block of an Atomsmashers’ punt with 30 seconds to play in the period set up a one-play score. Williams drug Atomsmasher defenders the final five yards on the 13-yard run for the score on the final play of the first period. Perez kicked the margin to 27-0.

Johnson’s 26-yard return of a 29-yard punt in the second period set PCHS up at the Atomsmashers’ 29. Williams did the rest scoring on the third snap with his shortest run of the game — a one-yard plunge — with 9:50 left in the first half. Perez tacked on the PAT as the lead increased to 34-0.

PCHS followed Johnson’s next punt return of 13 yards with a one-play, 51-yard scoring jaunt from Williams off right tackle with 5:10 showing on the second quarter clock. Perez was true with the PAT pushing the margin to 41-0.

The Bears’ would score one more time before intermission following a final three-and-out by the Atomsmashers. Williams needed two carries to cover the 50-yard distance with the touchdown run covering 41 yards just 1:13 before intermission. Perez closed out the PCHS scoring with the PAT for a 480 advantaged.

Johnson-Savannah scored on its third snap of the third period when quarterback Shamari King hooked up with Jayden Young on a 63-yard go route with 7:35 showing on a running clock. King’s pass for the conversion fell incomplete in the back of the endzone.

Pierce County’s only offensive series of the second half consumed 11:55 of the 20 minutes played. The Bears moved from their own 45 to the Johnson-Savannah one. PCHS had a 36-yard touchdown run by Colton McCook (five carries, 49 yards) negated by a penalty.

Three plays later, facing the only third down play of the night, an interception ended the possession.

PCHS (17-9 overall, 5-0 Region 3-AAA) knocked of homestanding Frederica Academy Tuesday, Septemer 14 in a best-of-five match winning 25-8, 25-9, 25-13.

The Lady Bears swept regionmate Brantley County Thursday, September 17 in Caney Bay and needed a third set to hold off Long County. PCHS recorded a 25-14, 25-16 decision against the Lady Herons and followed with a 25-18, 17-25, 15-11 victory over the Lady Blue Tide.

Lady Bears............25-25-25 Frederica Acad. .......8- 9-13 ST. SIMONS ISLAND — PCHS had a relatively easy time in beating the Lady Knights.

Ansley Hutcheson finished with a team-leading 14 assists. Addyson Echols and Daisy Thigpen followed with eight and six respectively.

Azalea Mobley topped the team with eight kills. Isabella Marx recorded five with Nylah Jackson and Mollie Carter credited with four apiece.

Wynn Hodges led the team in digs with eight. Marx (six), Jackson (five) and Mobley (four) followed.

It was a good night of solid hitting and aggressive serving,” said head coach Robbie Spires.

Lady Bears.................25-25 Brantley Co ................14-16 CANEY BAY — The Lady Bears overcame its sluggishness to get past Brantley County.

PCHS, holding a 14-9 lead in the first set, reeled off eight consecutive points to take control and garner the win.

The Lady Bears trailed 14-13 in the second set before a 5-0 run gave them the lead for good.

Marx had a team-high 14 kills to go along with three digs. Zayleigh Raithel and Carter followed with three each.

Hutcheson was credited with a team-high 12 assists. Thigpen finished with seven.

Carter led the way in digs with nine. Brewer recorded eight.

Lady Bears.............25-17-15 Long County ..........18-25-11 CANEY BAY — Pierce County held off the challenge of the Lady Blue Tide to earn the hardfought victory.

PCHS put together an aggressive offensive attack led by Marx, Mobley, Carter and Yeomans to capture the first set. Long County capitalized on getting the Lady Bears off balance on defense in the second set to force a third set.

Pierce County battled back from a 6-4 deficit taking the lead on the aggressive serves of Caroline Davis and amazing defensive saves by Raithel and Carter.

Marx topped the team in kills with eight. She was followed by Mobley and Jackson, who finished with four apiece.

Thigpen topped the team in assists with nine. Davis was credited with eight assists.

Brewer recorded 10 digs to lead the team. Marx and Mobley finished with nine each.

PCHS traveled Monday to Brooklet to face host Southeast Bulloch and Faith Baptist Christian Academy in a make-up of an August 13 cancellation due to a power outage in the last away match of the regular season.

Wayne County and Thomas County Central visited Bearville Tuesday, September 22. Region foe Tattnall County and Tift County visit Thursday, September 24.

West Laurens and Wayne County come to Bearville Tuesday, September 29. Regionmate Toombs County and SEB close out the regular season Thursday, October 1 for Senior Night.

The Lady Bears totaled 33 points in defeating the field comprised of conference teams. Khlare Hewatt led the way finishing first with a time of 14:03.

She was followed by Jaciee Neal (third; 14:43), Irene Sanchez (sixth; 15:53), Cali Jones (10th; 15:58) and Kaylee Carpenter (13th; 16:06) for the team score.

The Bears finished with 24 points with all five runners placing in the top seven spots. Paxton Cochran recorded a time of 12:30 to finish second.

Following Cochran were Phoenix Usher (4th; 12:46), Nate Carlson (5th; 12:47), Max Warren (6th; 12:55) and Cam Yeomans (7th; 13:08).

TheUnisonBehavioralHealthBoardofDirectors will hold a meeting noon, Thursday, September 24, in the Board Room Room located at 1007 Mary Street, Waycross, Georgia. For more information, please contact Emily Sirmons at 912-449-7101.

AmVets to form auxiliary, host fish fry Sept. 26 AmVetspost1857willhostameetandgreet and fish fry Saturday, September 26.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. at the Pierce CountyChamberofCommerce,200SWCentral Avenue, Blackshear.

The AmVets post is looking for mothers, wives, widows, grandmothers, sisters, daughters, step-daughters and granddaughters of American veterans and female veterans to form the first-ever Ladies Auxiliary.

The auxiliary is a national volunteer and service organization made up of dedicated women whose focus is to support American veterans,theirfamiliesandtheirlocalcommunities. Those who have no military association are also welcome to join as honorary members.

For more info, contact Commander Guylee Washington at guyleewashington@gmail.com or call 912514-1093.

This meeting is open to the public.

Big City Lights, Bear Country Pride is the theme for this year’s homecoming.

The parade will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, September 28.

PCHS homecoming is set for Friday, October 2. The Bears will face off against the Islands of Savannah. The culmination of homecoming week will be the crowning of the queen at halftime.

The annual homecoming dance will be held after the game in the PCHS Courtyard. Tickets are $20 for students and $25 for guests.

Students must meet eligibility requirements to participate, including having no more than five absences, no major discipline referrals and no outstanding fines. Non-PCHS guests must be pre-approved by the administration.

The parade will start at Emmanuel Baptist Church at the corner of W. Carter Avenue and Gordon Street and will travel down Main Street (Georgia Highway 15/121) and conclude at the Board of Education office/ Tiger Field on Main Street.

Parade entry forms are available by emailing mwetherington@pierce.k12.ga.us or by picking one up at the office at PCHS.

There is no cost to enter the parade but entry forms are required to participate in the parade. Entry forms are due by 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19.

General rules for the parade include:

• No semis or other big/tall vehicles that have limited ground visibility or braking issues are allowed.

• All entries must be decorated in the parade theme.

• No spinning out, excessive noise, dangerous or boisterous behavior is allowed.

• Live animals must be pre-approved and must be bagged - no waste can be left in staging areas or along parade route.

• No trash, debris, etc. can be left in the staging area.

• Smoking is not allowed in the staging areas or along the parade route.

• Participants must provide their own vehicles and drivers. Insurance and liability are the sole responsibilty of participants.

• All groups with more than five participants MUST meet off-site and arrive at the parade staging area as a group with entry fully decorated and ready for lineup.

All parade entries (not just floats) must be decorated. Units not decorated will be turned away.

A number of activities are planned for the week at PCHS. Details on those will be included in future editions.

There are athletes who seek team goals more than individual accolades. Pierce County head coach Ryan Herring calls them “special.”

Pierce County senior running back Jae’Veon Williams is in that mold. He was a Class AA all-state running back last season after posting 1,797 yards and 30 touchdowns. He entered this year as a 2026 Class AAA pre-season all-state selection.

The 5-foot-9, 190-pound bullish-style back is living up to the hype having gained 878 yards — third best in the state for all classifications — with 10 touchdowns. He’s had back-to-back 300-plus yard rushing nights and consecutive four-touchdown efforts.

It’s his last performance which has gained state-wide notoriety. Williams rushed for a school-record 382 yards and four touchdowns shredding a talented Swainsboro defensive unit in the Bears 35-7 victory September 11.

The performance earned him the Georgia High School Football Daily/Atlanta Journal-Constitution Varsity Player of the Week honor sponsored by Alpha Insurance. He joins fellow PCHS players D.J. Bell (2021) and Caden McGatha (2023) to capture the honor.

The award put Pierce County in rarefied company as the sixth school to win the award three times. The other five are Collins Hill, Gainesville, Lee County, Milton High School and Rabun County.

Ted Langford, representing GHSFD, and Leanne Davis, of Alpha Insurance, were in Bearville last Wednesday morning (September 16) to present the award.

“This is our 18th year we’ve been publishing a digital newsletter,” Langford said of GHSFD. “There are more than 400 high schools in the state of Georgia, and 1,000s and 1,000s of players. Our editors review all the top individual performances to determine who had the biggest and best game in the most important matchup from the previous weekend.

“This past week (September 11 games) was particularly tough, probably the toughest one we’ve had in terms of picking a state player of the week because there were so many great performances.”

Langford mentioned players from Central-Carrollton (WR/DB Jake Ivester; 10 receptions for 253 yards, two touchdowns; clinching interception in a 73-66 victory over Houston County), from Northeast High School (QB Jordan Wiggins was 22-of-29 passing for 379 yards and six touchdowns; rushed for 115 yards on 17 carries and two touchdowns in a 58-40 victory over Perry), and from Houston County (RB Austin Stinson rushed for 411 yards and six touchdowns on 27 carries; returned a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown in a 73-66 loss to Central of Carrollton) received consideration.

“In all the meetings we (writers) had, one player’s name kept coming up in every discussion,” said Langford. “That player was running back Jae’Veon Williams. Just a phenomenal effort. Jae’Veon broke the school record by more than 50 yards.”

Langford read a quote Herring delivered about his running back.

“Jae’Veon is as good as they come tackle-to-tackle running through the smoke,” Herring said. “He has a knack for finding creases most running backs can’t see. At the same time, he also can bounce it outside and stretch the field.

Friday night, he ran through the ‘smoke’ as good as I’ve ever seen.”

Running through the ‘smoke’ describes a player lowering his head, trusting their vision and exploding directly through the mess to gain positive yardage.

Langford praised the work of offensive linemen Trent Kennedy, Dathan Thornton, Lee Thornton, Logan Spivey, Leland Williams, Ocean Henderson and D.J. Moody, sniffers Noah Delaney and Luke Stone and wide receivers Chance Williams, Demontrey Clark and Jashun Faison.

“Trust me, those guys never get the credit they deserve,” said Langford. “They do a lot to make a team successful.”

Williams also had high praise for his teammates.

“They’ve been working hard in practice and its carried into our games,” he said. “I just trust them.”

Herring added its easy for linemen to provide blocking for a hard-running player.

“When the running back is running through the ‘smoke’,” said the coach, “it’s easy for them to want to block well when you’re playing as hard as he’s playing.”

Williams said at the snap, he trusted his blockers and his mind.

“Whatever I saw, I just went,” said Williams. “Everything just felt smooth ... just felt perfect.”

He added the game slowed down and felt like everything and everyone was in slow motion.

Williams is the first back under Herring with consecutive 300-yard rushing nights. He was 18 yards from becoming his second back in nearly 25 years with a 400 yard night. “I would have liked to have seen him get 400,” Herring said. “That would have been cool.” With at least seven games remaining and a possible run to a state championship of five games, the single season rushing record held by Bell of 2,228 in 2022 could be threatened. Williams needs 1,351 yards for the mark. He needs 25 more touchdowns to break Bell’s record of 34 in 2022.

The only thing Williams wants, though, is to lead his team to Atlanta and win a championship. After hoisting a trophy, he would like to get a full ride (scholarship) and play collegiately.

Do you see any future champions among them?

Born May 21, 1943, in Bainbridge, he was the son of the late Frederick Winston Barber Sr. and Ruth McDowell Barber. He made his home in Blackshear, where he became a respected pharmacist, community servant and friend to countless people throughout the Southeast.

He was a gifted athlete from an early age. A 1961 graduate of Bainbridge High School, he excelled in football, baseball and track. He was a scholar student as well. During his high school career, he earned numerous honors including All-State Halfback, All-Southern and All-American recognition, among other honors. He finished his high school football career with 3,357 rushing yards and 42 touchdowns, establishing himself as Bainbridge High School's Hall of Famer. He earned his Eagle Scout and God and Country award in high school as well.

He attended the University of Georgia, where he played football from 1962 through 1964. Among the highlights of his collegiate career was scoring the first touchdown for Vince Dooley against Florida, a game Georgia won 7-0. He remained especially proud of having played for Coach Dooley and being his first running back.

He was a member of the University of Georgia Lettermen's Club, the University President's Club and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In 2006, he received the University of Georgia Post-Graduate Scholar Award from the National Football Foundation and is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

After earning degrees from the University of Georgia in pharmacy, he established Barber's Pharmacy, which he owned and operated for 50 years.

He had a deep passion for pharmacy. He was a member of the Georgia State Board of Pharmacy for 10 years. He served on the Georgia Pharmaceutical Association and served on its Board of Directors. His professional affiliations included the National Community Pharmacists Association and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.

His commitment to his community was equally strong. He had a heart for the Lord and was a member of First Baptist Church of Blackshear and the Enriched Sunday School class. He served as President and Board member of the Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, President and Board member of the Blackshear Rotary Club and was a Paul Harris Fellow. His commitment to helping people and his community was endless and whatever was needed, he helped.

His service extended to numerous other organizations, including the American Cancer Society Board of Directors, Southeast Georgia Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America, Okefenokee Swamp Council, Pierce People for Safe Progress, Leadership Pierce and Fellowship of Christian Athletes Pierce County Chapter.

As much as he loved football, hunting and his community, he also loved his family deeply. He was a dedicated father and he cherished every moment he shared with his wife, kids and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Priscilla Bailey.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Julie Musgrove Barber, Blackshear; his children, Fredrick Winston Barber III (wife, Sarah), Johns Creek, Downing Musgrove Barber (wife, Candace), St. Simons Island and Heidi Lyneath Barber, Charleston, SC; six grandchildren, Mary Brooke Barber, Nashville, TN, Downing Musgrove Barber Jr., St. Simons Island, Buck McDowell Barber, John Stanley Barber and Clay Naomi Barber, all of Johns Creek and Hap Heimel, Mt. Pleasant, SC; his sister, Brenda Martin, Bainbridge and several other relatives.

Visitation will be from 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at the First Baptist Church of Blackshear.  

Funeral services will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, from the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Bill Young and the Rev. Steve Timmer officiating.

An additional visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 28, at the Sexton's House at the Oconee Hill Cemetery in Athens.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 28, in the Bulldog Haven section of the Oconee Hill Cemetery in Athens with the Rev. Jerry Varnado officiating.

Honorary pallbearers will be members of the First Baptist Church Enriched Sunday School Class, Georgia Football Lettermen, Jimmy Walker, Andy Day, Patrick Jones, Dennis Bloodworth, George Allen, Dari Thomas, Hugh Thompson, Travis Harrison, Stetson Bennett, Ted Welch and Teddy Welch.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pierce County Touchdown Club, P.O. Box 433, Blackshear, GA 31516 or the YMCA of Waycross, In Memory of Fred Barber, 1634 Plant Avenue, Waycross, Georgia 31501 or at ymcawaycross.com.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.

Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.

Deputy Jack Golub and Deputy Judah Hodges responded to an area in Pierce County that resulted in Sweat’s arrest.

• Eli Benjamin Chancey, 26, was arrested Saturday, July 11, and charged with two counts felony - criminal attempt to commit a felony, two willful obstruction of law enforcement officers, five counts aggravated battery against law enforcement officer, five counts misdemeanor obstruction of law enforcement officers, criminal trespass and two counts removal or attempted removal of weapon from public official.

Deputy Hunter Griffin and Deputy Jack Golub responded to a residence in Pierce County that resulted in Chancey’s arrest.

• Austin Lee Campbell, 24, was arrested Monday, July 27, and charged with felony - possession of scheduled I controlled substance, misdemeanor possession of drug related objects and driving under the influence (DUI).

Sgt. Michael James responded to an area in Pierce County that led to Campbell’s arrest.

• Michael Allen Musgrove, 29, and Brandy Alicia Wynn, 48, were arrested Monday, July 27, and were charged with felony possession of methamphetamine.

Sgt. Michael James responded to a residence in Pierce County that led to the arrest of Musgrove and Wynn.

• Chloe Morgan Rowell, 24, and Hayden Fisher Beckelheimer, 25, were arrested Sunday, August 2, and charged with felony - possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor - possession of drug re lated objects.

Rowell was also charged with possession of scheduled IV controlled substance. Beckleheimer was also charged with possession of scheduled I controlled substance and misdemeanor - driving with license suspended/revoked.

Deputy Landon Ryals and ACE Unit Investigator Jacob Holmes responded to an area in Pierce County that led to Rowell and Beckelheimer’s arrest.

• Jack Carlos Cox, 48, was arrested Friday, September 4, and charged with felony possession of methamphetamine, possession of firearms by first offender probationers, battery and misdemeanor - possession of drug related objects.

Aggressive Criminal Enforcement (ACE) Unit Sgt. Greg Nettles and Sgt. Michael James responded to a residence in Pierce County that led to Cox’s arrest.

Sheriff Ramsey Bennett encourages anyone with information on any illegal drug and/or criminal activity to contact the A.C.E. Unit at 912-807-2677, TIP Line at 912-807-8477, or download the free Pierce County Sheriff’s app and send an anonymous tip.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Blackshear Times receives the Sheriff’s Report from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office. We are not at liberty to change any facts in the reports that are sent to us. If there is an error in the report, contact the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office.

Her hometown of Patterson kicked off the celebration a little early last week, honoring its native daughter with a party and a presentation of its own.

Patterson Mayor Dedi Thomas and members of the Patterson Historical Commission presented a plaque to Mrs. Whitehead in honor of the occasion during a reception at the Richard Griffis Brick Room at Eagle Station last Thursday afternoon.

Mrs. Whitehead’s nephew, retired local educator Daniel Washington, accepted the award for his aunt.

A large gathering of Washington family members were in attendance and about a dozen of those will be making the trip to see Mrs. Whitehead at her home in a Greenville, PA assisted living facility.

Those in attendance also signed a commemorative card that relatives will present to Mrs. Whitehead on her birthday.

A plaque commemorating Mrs. Whitehead will also be on display at Patterson City Hall inside Eagle Station.

Mrs. Whitehead was born September 26, 1910 near Patterson to Douglas and Pauline Washington.

She is the widow of Sylvester Whitehead, who died in 1979. During the decades that followed, Whitehead endured the loss of her three sons and the siblings who shared her childhood. After the death of her last surviving son in 2011, Mrs. Whitehead moved to Pennsylvania, where she now resides at St. Paul’s Senior Living Community near Greenville.

Whitehead is known for her excellent memory and gift for singing hymns.

Her favorite was “Take Your Burden to the Lord and Leave It There,” a gospel classic written by Charles Albert Tindley.

Family members often credit that faith, along with a lifetime of discipline and healthy living, for helping her reach 116 years of age. They say she never smoked, rarely sat idle and always placed God at the center of her life.

BEARVILLE — The biggest Class AAA matchup of the season takes place Friday in Lyons, as secondranked Pierce County travels to “The Pit” to face topranked Toombs County in a Region 3-AAA showdown.

Both teams enter the contest 4-0 overall and 1-0 in region play. Pierce County comes in off a 48-6 win over Johnson-Savannah, while Toombs County overpowered Beach 76-7. “We’re going to face the best team in the state,” said head coach Ryan Herring. “It’s a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup being played in a great environment and basically a new stadium up there. I’m anxious to see where we stand against the best team in AAA and perhaps the best team in the state.” The game features two of the state’s top five rushing leaders. PCHS’s Jae’Veon Williams has accumulated 1,185 yards (12.6 yards per attempt) with 16 touchdowns. Williams has scored at least two touchdowns in 16 consecutive games dating back to the 2025 season opener.

He has rushed for at least 301 yards in three straight games with 10 touchdowns. Williams scored six times in PCHS’s last game.

Toombs County’s Donterrius Mincey (5-foot-10, 195 lbs.) has racked up 858 yards (11.0 yards per carry) and scored a state-leading 19 touchdowns. Mincey enters with three consecutive 200-yard performances totaling 692 yards and 15 touchdowns.

He ran roughshod over Beach (eight carries, 230 yards, four touchdowns vs. Beach) in Friday’s win. Mincey has scored at least four touchdowns in all four games including seven against Swainsboro.

“Mincey has great top end speed,” said Herring. “If he breaks out he’s gone.”

This will be Pierce County’s 14th game in program history versus a top-ranked team (2-11) in Georgia’s recognized polls. It’s the fourth time during the Herring era. PCHS is 1-10 in road game matchups and 12 when entering as a Top 10 member.

The Bears picked up their first victory in school history over a No. 1 team in the 1981 season opener in Homerville beating Clinch County 22-14. They lost their first-ever playoff game 33-14 at Vidalia in a 1981 Region 2-AA playoff game.

Friday’s meeting marks the 10th game between the two programs with Pierce County holding a 6-3 series lead following five consecutive victories. The Bears escaped 17-14 in their last trip to Lyons in 2023.

“We’re going to face a team that his six Power 4 signees on defense after one of their (Bulldogs) defensive backs committed Thursday to Iowa,” Herring said. “The most we have faced is when Crisp County had five the year (2020) we beat them in the semifinals.” Toombs County’s list of signees with Power 4 schools includes senior 2025 Class A DI First Team All-State defensive back Alex Scott (5-foot-11, 180 lbs.), who is headed to North Carolina State, senior linebacker Kareem Palmer (6-2, 215), an Auburn commit, and senior defensive lineman Nick Frazier (6-5, 260), a Colorado State commit).

Still not signed with Power 4 schools are 2025 First Team Class A DI All-State defensive lineman Jamarcus Johnson (6-5, 308) with offers from Georgia, Florida, Miami, Auburn, Oregon, Southern California, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida State, and junior defensive back Nick Carroll (511, 171) with offers from Ohio State, UCLA, Georgia, Florida, Florida State, Oregon and Georgia Tech.

Other defensive players are senior defensive lineman Hayden Bullard (6foot, 260), junior defensive lineman Zaylen Davis (6-foot, 230), who already has an offer from Reinhardt, senior linebacker Slade McDonald (5-8, 180), senior defensive back Deon Moore (59, 145), who has offers from McPherson, Point Skyhawks), senior linebacker M.J. Burton (5-9, 200), senior linebacker Kyrell Williams (6-foot, 198) and Mincey, who had offers from Rice, Tulsa, Mercer, Florida A&M, Marshall, Citadel, Liberty, Kennesaw State, Cornell, Dartmouth, Gardner Webb and Georgia State as a defensive back before his break season on offense.

“They play a 3-4,” said Herring of the Toombs County defensive scheme. “The nose (Johnson) has offers from every major college in the country. To me, their (Bulldogs) best player is the defensive end (Bullard). They also have a linebacker (Palmer) going to Auburn. They have some other great players.

“For us, we’ve got to identify their look in the box. We’ve got to stay on schedule.”

Pierce County’s defense, which is allowing 108.5 yards per game, will be severely tested by a Bulldogs’ offense that enters averaging 475.1 yards per game including 500 yards vs. Class 5A fourth-ranked Benedictine and 539 yards against rival Vidalia.

PCHS has surrendered just 19 yards on the ground on 79 attempts (0.24 yards per rush), one touchdown and 4.7 yards per game. Toombs County enters averaging 281.1 yards a game, 8.9 yards per attempt and has scored 24 touchdowns.

The Bulldogs generate 194 yards through the air on the arm of senior quarterback Joseph Owens (6foot, 175), who has completed 43-of-58 (74%) passes for 752 yards and three scores to go with an interception.

“It’s a very balanced offense that is so dangerous,” said Herring. “It’s about 70-30 (run to pass). They love to run counter and when you key on stopping the run the passing game is wide open. If you try to stop the pass then they gash you.

“The quarterback manages the offense. They do things with an RPO-like scheme. They also have a ‘check with me’ at the line of scrimmage after seeing what the defense is line up in.”

Carroll, a five-star recruit on defense, and senior Brandon Stevens (5-11, 160) are the top two receivers. Stevens has a team-high 21 catches for 409 yards and one touchdown while Carroll has pulled in 15 catches for 225 yards and a team-high two scores.

“That No. 3 (Stevens) will be the fastest player on the field Friday night,” said Herring. “Both, though, are very talented. Overall, Toombs is as fast as anybody on the perimeter on both sides of the ball with their skill players going both ways.”

The coach added the Bulldogs’ offensive linemen, led by senior R.J. Langston (5-11, 352), who has offers from Erskine and Reinhardt, do not play on the defensive side.

“The key for us is not allowing the big play through the air or on the ground,” said Herring. “They are going to score ... we just have to make them drive the ball and earn the touchdowns.”

PCHS vs. No. 1 1981

at AJ/WP-Clinch Co. .22-14 at AJ/AC-Vidalia .....#12-33 1991

at AJC-Clinch Co. ........0-31 1994

at AJC/WP-WaCo.....$3-28 2000

at WP-Swainsboro ......0-49 2005

at WP-Charlton ...........6-28 2006

at AJC/WP-Charlton...7-54 2007

WP-Charlton Co...........7-31 2011

at WP-Clinch Co.........13-14 2014

at AJC/WP-WaCo. .%35-62 2020 PCHS No. 6 AJC-ELCA .................20-13 2021 PCHS No. 3 AJC-Rabun County ...21-28 2025 PCHS No. 5

at AJC-Carver-Col. ...%7-44

# - Region 2-AA playoffs $ - 1st Round state % - State Quarterfinals AJ - Atlanta Journal; AC - Atlanta Constitution; AJC - Atlanta Journal-Constitution; WP - Ga. Sportswriter’s Poll

PCHS vs. TCHS Bears lead series 6-3 PCHS TCHS 1996...................14.......50 1997...................20.......53 2002 ...............#47.......26 2010...................13.......35 2011...................35 ........6 2014...................41 ........6 2015...................41 ......20 2022 .................31 ......28 2023...................17 .......14

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^{*Customers must have an Advanced Xfinity Gateway to have access to all features.}

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That question is a hot button issue across the country right now and last week it came front and center at the Pierce County Commission meeting.

Blake Edwards addressed the board during public comments asking commissioners to use their powers to block use of the cameras in Pierce County.

Edwards characterized the use of the cameras as unauthorized surveillance and a violation of American’s 4th amendment right protecting citizens from unfair and unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. He cited several examples of misuse and abuse of the cameras, including recent arrests of four law enforcement officers in the Savannah area “Unless I’m mistaken, every single one of you has a big “R” (Republican) in front of your name. That R should mean something. It should represent a set of values, including being the party that stands up for and defends the U.S. Constitution. I have taken the oath of office, it’s something I take very seriously,” he said.

Edwards called on commissioners to defend their oath and also protect and defend their constituents from any infringement on their constitutional rights. “There is no doubt in any true conservative’s mind that this camera system is another tool for mass government surveillance. The system is clearly being abused. It is the most sweeping surveillance system in American history, and we don’t have any way of knowing who accesses the data, how securely the data is being stored or how information requests are being processed.”

Edwards did say he could possibly understand FLOCK cameras being used at major intersections, but he pointed to intrusion in to his grandmother’s neighborhood as a major violation.

“...The fact that we have these cameras in residential neighborhoods, including one pointing right at my grandmothers house behind the recreation department on an extremely low-traffic road, I have a serious problem with that. Why do we need mass government surveillance in the middle of residential neighborhoods?,” he asked.

Edwards asked commissioners to meet with the sheriff and the chiefs of police in the county and investigate and ask questions. He asked how many crimes have been solved, how many missing children have been found and how many searches or data requests have been made. He also asked for the vetting process and for assurances the camera data is not being misused for personal gain or illegal searches.

However, Edwards still asked commissioners to end the use of Flock cameras in Pierce County.

Edwards closed his remarks with a quote by Ben Franklin.

“Those who give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.”

Sheriff Ramsey Bennett then addressed commissioners urging them to “not throw the baby out with the bath water.”

The sheriff acknowledged abuses of the system by some law enforcement officers including those cited by Edwards.

“Have some officers misused them? Yes. But, those officers are being prosecuted for (those abuses) as well they should.”

Bennett asked commissioners to keep the Flock cameras.

“This is one of the greatest tools for law enforcement to help protect citizens and keep them safe and prosecute the bad guys.”

Bennett said the sheriff’s office uses 10 Flock cameras installed at entrances to the county at county lines. He said he did not have any in residential areas, though he couldn’t speak for the city police department. Bennett said the county’s cameras have been in place about three years. There are strict guidelines for use of the cameras and the data is stored for 30 days and then purged. The image includes only vehicles and license plates and identifying marks such as bumper stickers.

Blackshear Police Chief Chris Wright says the city utilizes Flock cameras, but he declined to say how many. The Times has learned the number is less than a dozen.

“(The cameras) are one of the best law enforcement investigative tools that we have,” Chief Wright said. “We have solved numerous crimes including a stolen vehicle case just last week. We also have used it to exonerate individuals who have been a accused of crimes.”

Wright said the city cameras are audited regularly — at least once per month. He also said there are strict guidelines in place for use of the cameras to guard against abuse.

Patterson Police Department does not currently have any cameras.

The sheriff cited more than a dozen cases where the Flock cameras assisted in solving crimes, apprehending fugitives, intercepting narcotics and other illegal drugs, recovering stolen items and locating missing children and Alzheimer’s patients who had gotten lost.

He cited an arrest and prosecution of a vehicular homicide case and the arrest and life sentence guilty plea of a man accused of “sexual crimes of a heinous nature”, both of whom were caught using Flock cameras.

Bennett said some of the information Edwards cited in opposition to the cameras was circulated by the left wing “No Kings” movement and a Chinese individual with Communist Party links.

Bennett asked commissioners to keep the Flock cameras in use in the county.

“Jesus healed 10 lepers and only one came back to thank him,” he said. “The same thing applies here. If it just solves one crime or helps us locate just one person who is missing, it is worth it.”

Members of the two Georgia Power chapters recently partnered to repair and replace playground equipment at Blackshear Elementary. The project is part of a larger effort to create an updated playground space for BES students, made possible through the support of Georgia Power, local families, the community and the Pierce County Board of Education.

The playground project represents more than new and improved equipment. It represents an investment in the experiences and memories students will carry with them for years to come.

“This is about so much more than a playground,” said Jamie Roberts, a BES teacher and niece of beloved former Blackshear Elementary Principal the late Lanna Denison. “It is about creating a place where our students can laugh, grow, make friendships, build confidence and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

The project also carries special significance for the Blackshear Elementary community through the school’s L3 Initiative, which stands for “Love Like Lanna”. The initiative honors the legacy of Denison, who was known for her commitment to love, kindness, inclusion and ensuring that every child felt valued and knew they belonged. Denison passed away in 2023.

The playground's purple elements serve as a tribute to Denison and her lasting impact on the school and its students.

“Lanna believed deeply in the power of love, kindness and inclusion, and in making sure every child knew they belonged,” Roberts said. “This playground will carry that legacy forward as a place where all kids can play, laugh, learn and grow together.”

The L3 Initiative is rooted in a simple but powerful message: Every child belongs. Every child matters. Every child deserves a place where they can thrive.

Roberts said the project is a meaningful way to see that vision continues to take shape at the school.

“We are so proud to see the L3 vision come to life, and we know Lanna would be so proud to see the joy this playground will bring to generations of Bears,” Roberts said.

The school community hopes the playground will serve generations of Bears, providing a space where children can build friendships, develop confidence and create lasting childhood memories.

Blackshear Elementary expressed its appreciation to the Brunswick and Tifton Citizens of Georgia Power chapters for their partnership and service to the school, as well as to the parents, community members and Pierce County Board of Education whose support has helped move the project forward.

“Thank you, Georgia Power, for helping us build something that will make a difference for our students for years to come—and for being part of a legacy that is so much bigger than a playground,” Roberts said.

The funds will be used for street and drainage improvements in the Red Oak Loop area in the Farr’s Community.

The total project cost is $841,256 with $186,000 in match and leverage funding.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) announced the awards last week. Pierce County was one of 42 Georgia communities selected to receive a CDBG grant. The 42 grants total more than $40.9 million distributed statewide.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development allocates these funds annually to Georgia’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which is administered by DCA.

Georgia’s CDBG program is available to non-entitlement local governments and specifically targets rural communities. After a competitive and thorough evaluation process, applications are scored, rated and ranked. Grants are awarded based on overall merit.

“When our communities thrive, so do their citizens. Community Development Block Grants give rural Georgians access to resources that improve neighborhood infrastructure, enhance vital community facilities, and improve overall quality of life,” said Commissioner Christopher Nunn. “These grants allow local governments to make targeted, critical investments to the benefit of their citizens.”

“Community Development Block Grants are crucial for addressing aging infrastructure throughout Georgia,” said Kimberly Carter, Deputy Commissioner of Community Development and Finance. “This year’s grantees will be able to use these awards to bolster their infrastructure and housing needs.”

Trenton Conner of Patterson was arrested Tuesday, Sept. 8, in connection with the case.

Patterson Police Chief Nick Strickland announced Conner has been charged with two counts of armed robbery, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, cruelty to children in the second degree and aggravated assault.

The Patterson Police Department and Pierce County Sheriff’s Office investigated the incident which occurred at about 6 a.m. Monday, August 31. The Neighborhood Grocery is located at U.S. Highway 84 and Tyre Bridge Road, Patterson.

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office’s Aggressive Criminal Enforcement (ACE) Unit assisted with the investigation.

Warner was also charged with possession of scheduled I controlled substance.

The Pierce County Sheriff's Aggressive Criminal Enforcement (ACE) Unit Investigator Wayne Mercer, Sgt. Greg Nettles, Investigator Landry Lloyd and Investigator Jacob Holmes conducted a traffic stop in Pierce County. The traffic stop led to the arrest of Douberly and Warner.

• Misty Lee Downs, was arrested Monday, July 27, and charged with felony possession of fentanyl, trafficking in methamphetamine or amphetamine and misdemeanor -possession of drug related objects.

ACE Unit Investigator Wayne Mercer, Sgt. Greg Nettles, Investigator Landry Lloyd and Deputy Landon Ryals conducted a traffic stop in Pierce County that resulted in Downs’ arrest.

• Michael Ray Smith, 61, and Haley Rae Smith, 40, were arrested Thursday, August 27, and both were charged with felony possession of schedule I controlled substance and misdemeanor possession of drug related objects.

ACE Unit Investigator Wayne Mercer and Investigator Landry Lloyd responded to a residence in Pierce County that resulted in the arrest of M. Smith and H. Smith.

• Gaige Linton Gilliard, 30, was arrested Friday, August 21, and charged with felony - possession controlled substance.

ACE Unit Investigator Wayne Mercer assisted State Probation Officers in executing a Fourth Amendment Waiver at a residence in Pierce County which led to Gilliard’s arrest.

• Bobby Scott Lewis, 48, was arrested Thursday, August 27, and charged with felony possession of methamphetamine.

ACE Unit Sgt. Greg Nettles and Investigator Wayne Mercer served a felony parole warrant at a residence in Pierce County that led to Lewis’ arrest.

Sheriff Ramsey Bennett encourages anyone with information on any illegal drug and/or criminal activity to contact the A.C.E. Unit at 912-807-2677, TIP Line at 912-807-8477, or download the free Pierce County Sheriff’s app and send an anonymous tip.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Blackshear Times receives the Sheriff’s Report from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office. We are not at liberty to change any facts in the reports that are sent to us. If there is an error in the report, contact the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office.

***** We are ready for Fall to get here. It has been so hot. A cool down is on the way. It is time to plant your garden and rake leaves. It is time for beautiful colors of leaves. Let’s enjoy the Fall. ***** To our community: There is a time of sadness in our hearts. To all going through bereavement, you are in our prayers. God will give strength to the family.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 ***** Piney Grove Freewill Baptist Church warmly invites the entire community to join us for our Annual Church Homecoming Service at 3 p.m. Sunday, September 20. Our theme is “Welcome Back Home.” We are excited to welcome family, friends, former members, neighboring churches and community members as we come together for an afternoon of worship, fellowship, remembrance and celebration. Our guest speaker will be Pastor Marcus Nix of Macedonia Baptist Church, Patterson. Come home and worship with us as we celebrate God’s faithfulness and the blessings He has poured out upon our church and community. Come home to worship, fellowship and celebrate. Piney Grove Free Will Baptist Church is located at 2808 Piney Grove Road Blackshear. Everyone is welcome! ***** Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church will observe its 160th anniversary this year with a commemorative book.

The church is currently offering advertising opportunities in the book. Full page is available for $100, half page for $50 and quarter page for $25.

Ad submission deadline is October 1. For more information, send an email to contact@thepinkgroupgirls. com. Payments can be made on the cash app at $MMBC160. Checks are also accepted. Please make checks out to Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church and mail to P.O. Box 386, Patterson, GA 31557. For more information, call (202) 253-1886. ***** 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 welcome.

***** 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: Be mindful, be grateful, be positive, be true, be kind. ***** Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart. – Proverbs 3:3 ***** If you have any news for Bertie’s corner, please call me at (912) 282-7473 or email bertiecorner-blktime23b7@ gmail.com. I’ll be glad to hear from you and write up your news.

Pessimism has spread. A PEW research study found that 74% of Americans believe their children will be worse off than their parents. Gallup’s Economic Confidence Index revealed only 24% of the population view conditions as good or excellent.

That’s the bad news. Some good news favors a brighter outlook.

First, the U.S. economy is strong. With only 3% of world population Gross Domestic Product for 2026 is estimated at $32.4 trillion, one quarter of total world economic output, the largest on the planet and 55% larger than China’s. In 1900, the average American’s share of the nation’s economic output was around $200 per year. Today it approaches $85,000 to $90,000.

Second, people are living longer. Life expectancy in 2024 rose to 79, a new record. Age-adjusted mortality rates have fallen by 17% since 2000 and 30% since 1980. Death rates from heart disease have declined 39% since 2000 and 62% since 1980; from cancer by 31% since 2000 and 33% since 1980.

Third, crimes and criminal activity are falling. The Council on Criminal Justice reports that in the first half of 2026 homicides fell another 18%. Data from the FBI show a substantial decline of criminal activity in the United States, in particular violent crimes and homicide. Carjackings are down by 47%.

Fourth, the rights and opportunities of American women have steadily expanded. After decades of struggle and agitation, women gained the right to vote in 1920 with passage of the 19th Amendment. They now have rights and privileges their grandmothers could not imagine. As late as 1950 fewer than one woman in three were members of the workforce. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that by 2015 73.5 million women were working, 46.8% of the labor force.

Fifth, worldwide more people have access to clean water. In 2015 68% of the population had access. By 2024 that figure had risen to 74%. Still too low but improving.

Sixth, people living on three dollars or less per day are deemed to be in extreme poverty. The World Bank reported the number of povertystricken people has declined by two thirds since 1990.

Seventh, the war against a collection of deadly diseases has been a success. Smallpox, as the result of global vaccinations, has been completely eradicated. Polio was reduced by 99%. Other diseases which routinely killed or disabled millions have become rare or preventable. UNICEF estimates that the global under-five mortality rate fell by 60% between 1990 and 2024. Put another way, the risk changed from approximately 1 child in 11 dying before age five in 1990 to about 1 in 27 in 2024.

Eighth, we still see and read of earthquakes, floods, famines and loss of life. But according to studies by the United Nations, the per-person risk of dying in a natural disaster has steadily declined since mid-20th century. Time was when natural disasters would kill tens of thousands, even millions. That no longer holds. Thanks to better weather forecasting, stronger buildings, faster transportation and markedly better communications.

Ninth, no one can ignore modern life’s conveniences that did not exist at turn of the 20th Century: electricity, cars and trucks, television, the internet and on and on. Ninety-four percent of the population own mobile phones.

President Franklin Roosevelt said, “The trend of civilization is upward.” The foregoing evidence is proof.

Sources: Wall Street Journal, Aug.28; The New York Times, Aug.30; Open AI (2026) ChatGPT.

• Retired attorney Jim Thomas lives in Atlanta. Email jmtlawyerspeak@ yahoo. com

Paul told Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:12, “...be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” Paul did not merely tell Timothy to tell others what a Christian ought to be. He told him to show them.

Our testimony is the visible evidence of the invisible work God has done in our hearts.

First, our testimony has value. Proverbs 22:1 says, “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” A good testimony cannot be purchased. It is built over time through faithfulness, honesty, kindness, consistency, and godly decisions.

Daniel had that kind of testimony. His enemies searched for something they could use against him, but Daniel 6:4 says, “...they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful.”

What a tremendous thing when even those who may not agree with us can still say, “I know that person lives what he believes.”

Unfortunately, a testimony that takes years to build can be damaged in moments. One careless decision, angry outburst, dishonest action or sinful choice can hurt our influence. God forgives sin, but forgiveness does not always remove every consequence. That is why we should value and guard our testimony.

Second, our testimony has a voice. Second Corinthians 3:2 says, “Ye are our epistle... known and read of all men.” People are reading our lives every day.

They listen to our words. They watch our actions. They observe how we react when things go wrong.

There should not be one version of us at church and another version everywhere else. Our Christianity should follow us home, to work, into the store, onto social media, and everywhere we go.

Sometimes our testimony speaks the loudest when life is hardest. Anybody can praise God when everything is going well, but people notice when a Christian continues trusting God through disappointment, sorrow or difficulty. A light is most noticeable in the darkness.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Finally, our testimony requires vigilance. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

We must guard our hearts, control our reactions, and remain faithful.

Not every insult deserves a response. Not every disagreement needs an argument. Sometimes protecting our testimony means walking away, remaining quiet, or giving ourselves time to pray before responding.

And if we have failed, failure does not have to be the final chapter. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again.” We can confess our sin, make things right where possible, and begin walking faithfully again.

The question for each of us is simple: If someone watched our life for a week without ever hearing us say we were Christians, would they eventually know?

Our testimony has value. Our testimony has a voice. Our testimony requires vigilance.

May we live in such a way that when others look at our lives, they see evidence that Jesus Christ truly makes a difference.

Jimmy Barrett is a resident of Blackshear and pastor of Southside Baptist Church in Waycross.

Flock cameras: Blake Edwards came before the commissioners and asked for the board to approve a resolution to discontinue the use of the cameras. He said the cameras are an invasion of privacy and violate the constitutional rights of citizens. Edwards made the comments during public participation. (See related story.)

Millage rate: Commissioners approved the proposed millage rate of 9.784 mills for 2027 and adopted a resolution to approve the 2027 tax levy. The millage rate is about 0.613 mills lower than last year’s rate of 10.397 mills. A called meeting on the proposed budget and levy was scheduled for last night, Sept. 15.

Excavator and mulcher: Commissioners approved the purchase of Caterpillar Model 309 Hydraulic Excavator and Torrent Mulcher from Yancey Brothers of Waycross in the amount of $178,150.

Mowing services: Wright Outdoors of Blackshear was the low bidder for mowing services at the recreation department in the amount of $21,915. The only other bidder was North Florida Lawn Maintenance of Callahan, FL, at $71,500.

Zoning requests: Commissioners approved a rezoning request from Allen and Griffis Construction on a parcel on Dean Still Road for the construction of a subdivision. Commissioners tabled a variance request for the installation of a new mobile home on Christie Circle in the Farr’s Community. Public hearings were held prior to the regular meeting. No input was received on the rezoning request. Chairman Neal Bennett and Commissioner Randy Dixon expressed concerns about granting the variance request since the property in question will have two mobile homes on eight tenths of an acre. The county’s code requires one per one acre of land. Fourth district Commissioner David Lowman asked for the item to be tabled to allow commissioners to get more information on the request.

Tiger Field: Commissioners approved submitting a pre-application to obtain funds from the land and water conservation fund for improvements at Tiger Field.

Animal control: Kimberly Lawson of Patterson addressed commissioners asking for animal control in the county. Lawson said she had recently had a pack of wild dogs roaming through her neighborhood and called the sheriff’s office only to be told there was no animal control ordinance locally. Lawson asked commissioners to investigate ways to prevent wild dogs from roaming free and to check on implementing leash laws and spay and neuter programs. She encouraged the county to check with local sources, including local dog training facilities, for input on animal control efforts.

Pierce Transit application: The board approved a routine, annual application with the United States Department of Transportation and the Georgia Department of Transportation for operation of Pierce Transit.

Technical services: The commission approved an agreement with the Southern Georgia Regional Commission to provide technical assistance to the county for the land and water conservation grant. The services will be charged at an hourly rate.

County manager report: Interim County Manager Thomas Sauls gave an update on various county departments in his report. Sauls reviewed line-by-line highlights from the seven page report. In the financial report, the county showed revenues of $12.5 million and expenditures of $8.6 million as of July 31.

Invocation leader: The Rev. Edmund Thrift of Shady Grove Baptist Church led the invocation at the meeting.

Pledge leader: Sheriff Ramsey Bennett led the pledge of allegiance.

Next meeting: The next regular commission meeting will take place at 6 p.m. Tuesday, October 6, at the Southeast Georgia Regional Agriculture Center in Blackshear.