“Georgians know best how to spend their money, not the government,” said Governor Kemp. “That’s why we’re committed to being good stewards of those dollars and putting more of them where they belong—in Georgians’ pockets—at a time when other states are having to raise taxes.”

Previous special refunds were issued in 2022, 2023, and 2025. To be eligible, Georgia taxpayers must have filed both 2024 and 2025 individual income tax returns, have paid into the system, and not owe the State Department of Revenue.

An individual filer’s refund amount will depend on their tax liability and is capped at:

• $250 for single filers and married individuals filing separately

• $375 for head of household filers

• $500 for married individuals filing jointly “Our team is ready to deliver these refunds efficiently and securely to Georgia taxpayers,” said DOR Commissioner David Burge. “We’ve built a process that prioritizes accuracy and speed so eligible filers can receive their money as quickly as possible.”

Taxpayers can check their eligibility using the Surplus Tax Refund Eligibility Tool, available through the Georgia Tax Center, by filling in their tax year, Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number, and Federal Adjusted Gross Income.

For more details, including Frequently Asked Questions and refund tracking, visit: https://dor.georgia.gov/georgia-surplus-tax-refund.

Valedictorian Sinclair is the daughter of Chris and Amanda Sinclair and she has one sister, Bayleigh.

She has served on and participated in numerous boards and clubs. She is a four-year participant and officer of Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), served as vice president of both public relations and finances, is a four-year participant in BETA, served on the superintendent advisory council as a sophomore and the Hospice Satilla Junior Board as a junior. She currently serves on the First Southern Bank Junior Board where she serves as treasurer. She is a three-year participant of the school’s math team and has placed both individually and with a team in multiple competitions. She is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). She served as a junior usher and assisted with organizing and planning graduation including grad practices, honors night and the graduation ceremony (junior). She is a fouryear player on the high school’s varsity golf team and won three area championships and three state championships. She is an active member of her church, First Baptist Church of Blackshear, specifically the youth program, through which she has served in numerous events benefiting the community. She has volunteered as a buddy at baseball games through the Miracle League of the Okefenokee for many years now, connecting through the golf team, BETA and church groups. She has been active in the local St. Illa Chapter of Junior Cotillion for many years as well. She was a student in the program (5th-7th grade) until she was able to become an assistant in the program (8th grade-senior), a position in which she helped lead events, such as balls and dinners and instructed classes of students in lessons surrounding ballroom dance, table manners, etiquette, and respect. Through her community involvement, she has volunteered time towards local fundraisers (Cowboys for Kids, Southeast Cancer Unit, etc.) and given materially towards local drives (Southeast Georgia Women’s Center, nursing homes, relief centers for hurting families, dog shelters, churches, etc.).

Academically, her honors include being a Georgia Certificate of Merit recipient (top 5% of junior class), STAR student for the Pierce County school district and highest average in Honors Literature, Geometry, Chemistry, World History, Adv Pre-Calc & Algebra, and Biology, as well as French I, and DE College Algebra (Math 1111). In the community, she has been honored as Exchange Club Student of the Month (October 2025). Her peers voted her on the school’s Homecoming Court (2025) and for the Most Intellectual Senior Superlative. She has received Coach’s Award (2023) and Academic Award (20242025). She made All Area Team in 2024.

Working towards her goal of a career in the education field, Sinclair plans to attend Georgia Southern University. After acquiring her bachelor’s degree in secondary education from GSU, she hopes to find an upper secondary teaching position as a math teacher. While working, she plans to complete a master’s degree in math as well. This degree will qualify her to teach college level math courses through local high schools.

Sergent is the daughter of David and Celesta Sergent. She has one brother, Walker, last year’s salutatorian, and two sisters, Emma and Kayla.

Sergent has been a starter in tennis and swim for four years. She received the most improved and coaches award for both. She is a part of the first-ever PCHS girls relay team to swim in the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) State championship in Atlanta. In her tennis career, she has been to the Elite 8 one year, the final four two years, and is heading to the state championship match this week. Over the four years, she has received awards for Most Improved, Coach’s Award, and Highest GPA. She has also played trumpet for marching band and concert band for four years, as well as bass guitar for jazz band for one year. In band she has received the Merit Award all four years, and has served as band chaplain all four years.

She scored a perfect score on the algebra EOC, and she received the highest average in at least one subject for the past several years.

She is an active member of Central Baptist Church and the Solid Rock Student Ministry.

She has been in Beta for four years and participated in the Math team for one year. She has also regularly attended FCA every year.

Sergent plans to attend Georgia College and State University to study Education in the fall. After college she plans to move back to Pierce County, be a teacher and start a family.

Several local houses of worship participated in the the recent National Day of Prayer event at two different locations in Pierce County.

The noon time Offerman Day of Prayer service, originally scheduled to take place outdoors, was moved indoors to Offerman Baptist Church due to possible inclement weather.

By 7 p.m. the skies had cleared and the Blackshear Day of Prayer event took place on the steps before the Pierce County Courthouse.

Approximately 75 people gathered to hear music from the Blackshear Church of God Praise Team and very specific prayers from various religious leaders for a variety of purposes; families, the country, the military, the educational system, local businesses and more.

Pastor RB Gaskins of Living River Church of God, Pastor Servando Lopez of Iglesia Cristiana Rios De Vida, Pastor Bob Jernigan of St. John Church Pastor Mitch Hall of Mershon Baptist, Pastor John Williams of Blackshear Church of God, Pastor Randy Corsby of Ward Memorial Church and Pastor Mike Jones of Abundant Life all took turns at the microphone to lead those gathered in prayer.

Pastor Jimmy Thrift of Yeomans Chapel Baptist was scheduled to conduct the call to worship prayer and lead the Pledge of Allegiace, but had to cancel due to medical issues. Lay leader Chad Bristow filled in for Pastor Thrift.

In Offerman, the Day of Prayer event was moved inside to Offerman Baptist Church due to the threat of inclement weather last Thursday, but the rain showers were welcome and didn’t dampen the Spirit of this year’s National Day of Prayer.

About 30 people were in attendance for the event. The Rev. James Lightsey of Offerman Baptist Church served as emcee and prayers were offered by the Rev. Robbie Gill, Floyd Gill and Jack Tyre. The theme for this year’s observance is “Glorify God Among the Nations, Seeking Him in All Generations,” based on 1 Chronicles 16:24. This year’s observance marks the 75th National Day of Prayer which was first commemorated in 1952.

The Pierce County Class of 2026 will have its graduation ceremony at 8 p.m. this Friday, May 15.

Valedictorian Belle Elizabeth Sinclair and Salutatorian Jasmine Elise Sergent will lead the class. (See related story.)

Graduation will take place at 8 p.m. this Friday, May 15.

This ceremony will be held at Bear Stadium and will be open to the public.

Valedictorian, Belle Elizabeth Sinclair and Salutatorian, Jasmine Elise Sergent will lead the class of 2026. Contingency plans are in place for inclement weather. (See related story.)

The 209 member PCHS Class of 2026 includes 54 honor graduates.

In addition to Sinclair and Sergent, honor graduates include: Chloe Ray-Ann Lynn, Andrew Palmer Mattox, Rachel Ellis Tyrone, Lana Joyce Harto, Class Officer, Lilah Abigail Hall, John Chadwick Nimmer Jr., Kayla Elizabeth Ward, Allie Brooke Stokes, Aaden Samuel Carlson, Mattie Ann Lee, Kade Merritt Meeks, Reegan Colee Smith, Class Officer, Nevaeh Grace Grant, Parker John White, Marlee Claire Drury, Joseph Reid Flynn, Maya Olivia Cochran, Ansleigh Makayla Cyr, A’Layna Debrasha Bell, Jacob Rowan McCrea, Albert Thomas Lucas, Carley Ann Sloan, Class Officer, Jacob Wayne Dixon, Broden Nicolas Colbert, Olivia Brannon Bennett, Jacey Morgan Ryals, Addison Bella Brown, Noah Malik Scott, Britton Abbott Morgan, Agatha Lynn Wolfe, Maggie Grace Thrift, Nathan Ryan Barnhill, Jocelyn Bree Edenfield, Keira Marie Emmons, Martin Ernesto Escobar, Mason Acosta McIntosh, Ana Lorena Llamas-Diaz, Riley Ann Martinez, Noelia Aguirre, William Grayson Rodgers, Class Officer, Shyanne Elizabeth Luce, Carson Walker Sweat, Rilyn Leah Richey, Jason Eulis Bradley, Rheanna Laney Herrin, Carter Mitchell Mattox, Emma Claire Murray, Ashlyn Jade-Louise Woolsey, Lily Anna Braddock, Mary-Madeline Shuman, Danica Helaina Salas and Davis Marshall Dyal.

At the graduation ceremony, seniors will enter to “Pomp and Circumstance.” Lana Harto will give the welcome, followed by Reegan Smith leading the pledge to the flag. Kallye Gay will give the inspiration.

Jasmine Elise Sergent will then deliver the salutatory address. The class song, “Take on the World' will then be presented by the senior class. Belle Elizabeth Sinclair will then deliver the valedictory address. After the address, Carley Sloan will offer a special recognition.

“Don’t Blink” dedicated to parents of the graduating class, will then be performed by a senior ensemble. Members of the ensemble includes: Addie Brown, Briley Harris, Lily Hays, Abagail Hicks, Adrianna Howard, Samarious Joyce, Mattie Lee, Riley Martinez, Kymber Minchew, Saharah Minott, Madisyn Moore, Jacey Ryals and Hallie Thomas.

Senior class advisor Rebecca Baldree and Audio/Visual Technology Instructor John DuPont will present the Class of 2026. Superintendent Dara Bennett and Principal Dr. Brandi Todd will present the graduates their diplomas.

Grayson Rodgers will give the benediction.

Candidates for graduation for the PCHS class of 2026 include: Matthew Elijah Adams, Buck Michael Aldridge, Alyssa Abagail Katherine Allen, Aniston Olivia Allen, Cenchezz Daijuan Armstrong, Beau Carter Aspinwall, Elijah Matthew Bailey, Jerrie Marie Baldwin, Jacob Wallace Christopher Bennett, Natalie Anne Boyett, Gracie Leanne Branson, Nigel Lee Brown, Serene Marie Burnham Ferraiuolo, Preston Micheal Burrows, Steven Jerod Byrd, Suzanna Marie Carrin, Landon Cade Carter, Zane William Cason, Julian Castillo, Isaiah Ishmael Chancey, Dereck Lamar Clark Jr., Jacob Allen Clark, Elisha Daniel Coar, Jackson Randall Courson, Aibhilin Marie Cribb, Cooper Franklin Davis, Dean Matthew Davis, Sage Mackenzie Delille, Carlos Diaz, Charley Alexis Dieringer, Lander Morris Dixon, Mayson Renee Dixon, Ava Breann Doss, Drake Morris Dowling, Alyssa Lenora Durrance, Nathaniel Lee English, Brody Mason Feagin, Lily Mae Flowers, Dewey Aaron Leo Fowler, Andrez DeJesus Garcia, Alejandro Garcia-Gabriel, Abagail Marie Gay, Kallye Alexandria Gay, Class Officer, Chyenne Michelle Geary, Zimya Kapree Godwin, Alyssa Brooke Golding, Amaralis Gomez, Amber Leah Guy, Sarah Alaine Guy, Nathaniel Ryan Gyesky, Emmitt Troy Hall, Gracelyn Marie Harrell, Briley Maddison Harris, Gisselle Harrison, Aniyah Elise Hayes, Landon Isaiah Hayes, Lily Jane Hays, Madison Riley Head, Aiden Sean Henderson, Carly Ellen Herrin, Gabriela Laraina Herrin, Serena Nicole Hickox, Abagail Miranda Hicks, Carson Andrew Hope, Adrianna Lynette Howard, Syler Rayen Jacobs, Houston Forrest Johnson, Hanna Elizabeth Jordan, Samarious Jermaine Tyreek Joyce, Kingston Walsh Kicklighter, Thomas Kamden Kicklighter, Trinity Brooke Kiser, Christian James Klink, Emily Marie Larisey, Zachery Lee Lastinger, Kalleigh Jade Lavender, Chloe Michelle Lee, Jermarlin Jamal Lee, Zachary Donnel Lee, Marquez Dashawn Leggett, Shane Isaiah Ethan Little, Alexis Kathryn Lively, Alexis Cheyenne Mason, Braxton Reed McCook, Jikeyse Jermaine McGauley, Sariah Juleena McMillan, William Joseph Kelly McQuaig, Nathan Daniel McSwain, Trinity Dianne Loreta Melton, Kymber Grason Minchew, Saharah Alecia Minott, Cielo Victoria Miravete-Suhr, Milek Keir Moody, Madisyn Michelle Moore, Jayce Alexander Moran, Lucy Adriana Morgan, Kimberly Alexis Mullis, Shianne Rain Mullis, Caroline Abigail Norman, MaKenzie Niyah Ogletree, Alexandra Ortiz Boyle, Riddhe Patel, Yug Sureshbhai Patel, Jason Douglas Phillips, Jazmin Pimentel, Ryan Daniel Pittman, Tyler Mason Ramey, Parker Lane Raulerson, Kellen Scott Roberts, Braden Eric Roe, Luis Rojas-Sanchez, Briar Whytt Rozier, Gregory Tyron Sallet, William Edward Samble IV, Camson Andrew Sapp, Kale Ryan Scott, Nasir Mekhi Sealy, Zahara Kariee Sheltz, Archy Felton Shuman, Williams Sierra, Mylee Anna Simmons, Aniyah Reve’ Smith, Brenslie Ann Smith, Richard Bryson Tyler Smith, Garrett Thomas Stevenson, Jonathan David Stone, Sarah Ellington Stone, Gabriel Levi Strickland, Thomas Briar Sweat, Albert Trevon Thomas, Hallie Maxine Thomas, Luke Michael Thomas, Jennifer Marie Thompson, Evlyn Michelle Thrift, Jason Grant Thrift, Taylor Ansley Tomlinson, Shaun Gabriel Traxler, Caroline Olivia Tuttle, Nicole Velazquez Serafin, Reese Carolyne Walker, Shavez Zy’Angelo Warren, Elizabeth Anne Wasdin, Dalton Blaine Weathersby, Kater Ashston Taylor White, Ashlea Brianna Williams, Mollie Madison Williams, Ralph E Williams IV, Jaleia Addison Williamson, Phenelope Wilson, Kaiden Reign Wolfe, Angela Tally Wynns, Karen Xu, Daulton Davion Yohn and Elah Jade Young.

Thomas Kenneth “Kenny” Bowen III, reportedly had outstanding arrest warrants, pulled a firearm and pointed it at the deputies during a May 7 traffic stop, according to the GBI’s preliminary information of the investigation released Friday, May 8.

BCSO deputies arrived at a home on Pat Harris Road in the Raybon Community north of Nahunta to arrest Bowen on the outstanding warrants at approximately 5:35 p.m.

As the deputies arrived, Bowen got into his truck, which had a boat and trailer in tow. Bowen then fled the home, which initiated a pursuit south on Pat Harris Road and Hoke Road.

Pat Harris Road runs north and south between Raybon Road West and Hoke Road just off of U.S. Highway 301.

Bowen stopped the truck on Hoke Road, exited and attempted to release the trailer. Deputies approached Bowen and gave several verbal commands.

After Bowen refused to comply, deputies attempted to tase him. Bowen continued to resist, pulled a firearm from his waistband and pointed it at the deputies.

Deputies then fired shots toward Bowen, hitting him. Medical assistance was provided to Bowen by the deputies. EMS was called, with Bowen dying at the scene.

Bowen’s body was taken to the GBI Crime Lab in Pooler for an autopsy.

No deputies were physically injured, the sheriff’s office said.

Brantley County Sheriff Len Davis requested the GBI to conduct an independent investigation. The deputies involved have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues, which officials said is standard procedure in cases like this.

“Any time an incident like this occurs, it is tragic for everyone involved,” Davis said in a press release.

The GBI will conduct an independent investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI’s Regional Investigative Office in Kingsland, GA, at (912) 729-6198.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submittips- online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

Once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.

Friday, we will celebrate you — the Class of 2026. Over the past four years, you have made memories that will last a lifetime.

Those memories will be of the anxiety of passing the big test, the joy of athletic triumphs and the countless moments of laughter and learning with your teachers and your friends and classmates. You’ve discovered success is not just about grades or trophies, but about growth, kindness and the courage to keep moving forward. Now, you are ready to step out in to the future.

As you open this next chapter—whether it’s college, the workforce, the military, or another path—remember to always trust God and to lean on your family and friends.

On behalf of our entire community, we applaud your achievements and look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will make in our community, our state and our world.

Congratulations, graduates of 2026! God bless you!

The death of Bobby Cox, perhaps the greatest manager the Atlanta Braves have ever had, passed away Saturday in Marietta. He was 84.

I never had the privilege of meeting him in person, but I felt like I knew him.

His passing has brought back a flood of memories as I’ve watched the countless tributes and reflections to “the skipper”.

I go back to that magical “worst-to-first” season when I was in high school in 1991.

I and my family followed baseball in passing— but that year made us fans.

For all the years before then, we had a vague knowledge of the Atlanta Braves, known as “America’s team” and accessible nationwide through the superstation, WTBS. The team was owned by another notable Atlanta citizen, the late Ted Turner, who also died last week.

Back in those days, though, few people ever showed up at the ball park and the Braves teams of that era were, shall we say, mediocre at best. Most of those years, the Braves were out of contention for the pennant by the national anthem of the second game of the season.

That all changed in that Miracle Season of 1991. National League Cy Young winner Tom Glavine, MVP third baseman Terry Pendleton, and young pitchers John Smoltz and Steve Avery all became household names, along with outfielders Ron Gant, David Justice, speedster Otis Nixon and clutch performer Mark Lemke.

But, number 6 was the leader. Having served in the front office and working hard to put the pieces in place, Bobby traded the front office for the field, donned his metal cleats and went to work.

We knew then, Bobby Cox, our manager, our skipper, was someone special.

We were on a firstname basis with him, even if we never met him. Everybody knew who Bobby was.

Known as a “players’ manager,” my Daddy often pointed out how much he respected Bobby for mentoring, encouraging, looking after and always standing up for his guys.

You could hear him from the dug out as the network microphones would pick up him cheering on his players.

He proved that he was dedicated to his guys, most notably by holding the major league record for most ejections from ball games.

But, Bobby Cox was the best in so many other categories. He had played third baseman during his professional career, but it was as the long-tenured manager of the Braves that he made his mark and entered the history books.

He led the Braves to an unprecedented 14 straight division championships.

His Braves won the 1995 World Series with the Atlanta Braves.

He was named National League Manager of the Year four times and he was unanimously elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2013. The Atlanta Braves retired his jersey #6 in 2011.

He finished his career with 2,504 wins, which ranks fourth in Major League Baseball history.

He also drafted Chipper Jones and managed a stellar rotation that included Glavine, Smoltz and Greg Maddux among others.

We got spoiled by all that success during those years. It was something amazing and the likes of which we may never see again.

Thank you skipper for all the memories.

You were always a class act.

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

The question is not simply, “Have we failed?” The question is, “What do we do with our failures?”

One of the clearest examples in Scripture of someone who failed is Simon Peter. Peter loved the Lord. He followed Christ. He had left his nets, heard Jesus preach, seen miracles, walked on water and confessed, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Peter was sincere, but Peter still failed.

In Luke 22:31–32, Jesus said, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”

Those words were spoken before Peter denied the Lord. Jesus knew Peter would fall, but He also knew Peter would get up again. The Lord knew Peter would fail, but He also knew Peter would be restored. That gives us hope: failure does not have to be final when it is brought to the Lord.

So when we do fail (and we will) what do we do?

First, we must realize our failure. Peter’s first problem was not denial; it was self-confidence. He told Jesus, “Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.” Yet before the night was over, Peter denied the Lord three times. Often failure does not happen all at once. It begins with distance, compromise, fear and self-reliance. Healing begins when we quit pretending, quit excusing, and honestly say, “Lord, I failed.”

Second, we must repent of our failure. After Peter denied the Lord, Luke 22:61–62 says, “And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter… And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.” Those were not casual tears. Peter was broken. There is a difference between regret and repentance. Regret says, “I wish this had not happened.” Repentance says, “Lord, I have sinned.” Regret may grieve over consequences, but repentance grieves over sin.

Third, we must receive grace after failure. On resurrection morning, the angel said in Mark 16:7, “But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter…” Those two words, “and Peter,” are full of mercy. Peter had denied the Lord, but the risen Christ had not forgotten him. Peter may have felt disqualified, but grace still knew his name. Grace does not pretend failure is harmless, but grace says failure is not the final word.

Fourth, we must return to faithfulness beyond failure. In John 21, Jesus met Peter by a fire of coals. Peter had denied the Lord by a fire, and Jesus restored him by a fire. Three times Jesus asked, “Lovest thou me?” and then told him, “Feed my sheep.” Peter still had work to do. Failure had not canceled his future. He later stood on the day of Pentecost and boldly preached Christ.

Finally, we must remember the faithfulness of Christ. Jesus said, “But I have prayed for thee.” Before Peter ever denied Him, Jesus was praying for him. Peter’s failure was great, but Christ’s intercession was greater. Second Timothy 2:13 says, “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.”

Maybe you are carrying failure. Bring it to the Lord. Do not defend it. Do not deny it. Do not drown in it. Confess it, receive His grace and take the next right step.

Peter failed, but he was not finished. Peter fell, but he was not forsaken. Peter denied the Lord, but the Lord did not deny Peter.

Failure is not final when it is brought to Jesus Christ.

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

Next Tuesday, May 19, is the general primary election day in Pierce County as well as across the state.

One of our most sacred and fundamental rights as Americans is the privilege to choose those who will lead us and make decisions for us.

This right and privilege has been earned by the struggle to “form a more perfect union” and has been paid for by the blood and sacrifice of those who have served to give us those things.

That’s why it is particularly troubling that voter turnout so far is so poor. Pitiful. Paltry.

With a week to go for early voting and election day May 19, only 884 residents have bothered to show up. To those 884, we say thank you and we applaud you.

To the over 12,000 of you who haven’t, get up off your seat and go vote.

It’s simple. It’s easy. And, it is fundamental to our country.

Participation should be as close to 100 percent as possible. We are always puzzled why it’s not.

We get it. Politics can be a dirty business. Personally, we would like to see candidates be more specific about issues and offer a vision for where they want to lead us in the future and spend less time mud slinging and tearing each other down.

Still, we can have influence on making that better, simply by expressing our choices and using our right to vote.

Some may feel that one vote doesn’t make a difference, but history tells a different story. Countless elections—from local school boards to national offices—have been decided by just a handful of ballots. Your single vote could be the one that tips the scale toward lower taxes, better roads, safer neighborhoods or fairer policies.

Choosing not to vote is, in effect, letting others decide your future for you. But when you cast your ballot, you claim your stake in the decisions that affect you, your family, your livelihood, your bank account and your neighborhood.

Let’s not sit on the sidelines. Let’s show up. Don’t delay. Do it now. Your voice matters.

See you at the polls.

Stone (1-for-3) drew a bases-loaded walk in the first inning and added a two-run double in the second as the Bears jumped out to a 6-0 lead.

Osbourne twirled five innings, allowing both hits—a two-out single in the third and a one-out single in the fourth. He fanned one, walked four and hit two batters in his 68-pitch outing.

Brogdon worked two innings of hitless ball, retiring six of seven batters on 21 pitches. He recorded two strikeouts, walked one and uncorked a wild pitch.

The top-seeded Bears (30-3), making their third quarterfinals appearance in five years and 14th overall, stretched their record winning streak to 23 games while tying the school mark for victories. The 2012 team set the mark during a 30-9 run to the championship series vs. Appling County. The 2022 team tied the mark, going 30-6, falling in the semifinals to Redan.

Callaway (22-14) was making its seventh appearance in 11 years in the quarterfinals and first since 2022. The Cavaliers reached four consecutive quarterfinals from 2018-22.

Osbourne wiggled his way out of first inning trouble of his own doing. He walked the leadoff batter, hit the next batter on the ensuing pitch and issued a one-out walk loading the bases.

The right-hander got the fifth-place batter to hit a chopper to third baseman Chance Williams, who stepped on third and threw across the diamond for the inning-ending double play.

The Bears, who entered ranked No. 1 in MaxPreps, No. 2 in ScoreAtlanta and 11th overall for all classifications by MaxPreps, scored the only runs they would need in the bottom of the inning.

Williams (3-for-3) lined a leadoff single and stole second ahead of a walk to Beck Hodges (1for-3). Jack McClellan (3-for-4) dropped down a perfect bunt loading the bases with nobody out.

Stone’s ensuing walk plated Williams and ended the afternoon for the Cavs’ Jax Campbell just four batters in. Campbell was one of three pitchers Callaway used to record the first six outs of the game.

Reliever Brennan Swanson walked the first batter he faced, Dylan Johnson, forcing home Hodges for a 2-0 lead. A 5-2-3 double play grounder was followed by a groundout, limiting Pierce County’s damage.

PCHS broke the game open with a four-run second scoring after two outs and nobody on base.

Williams kept the inning alive with an infield hit and error, allowing him to slide safely into second. Hodges ripped a double to left-center, scoring Williams for a 30 advantage.

McClelland reached on an infield hit in the hole between short and third. Stone followed ripping a two-run double down the leftfield line. Stone continued onto third when the ball was mishandled in the infield and scored when the throw to third skipped away, doubling the advantage to 6-0.

The Bears left the bases loaded in the third inning. Osbourne (1-for-3) legged out an infield hit. After courtesy runner Garrett Stevenson advanced to second on Bryson Smith’s sacrifice bunt, consecutive walks to Grayson Arington and Williams loaded the bases.

Callaway escaped, turning its second double play of the game.

Osbourne worked his way out of a second bases loaded situation in the fourth. A one-out single and consecutive two-out walks loaded the bases for the Cavs before the third out was recorded.

PCHS scored its final run in the fourth. Johnson’s two-out walk kept the inning moving. Brantley Willis (1-for-4) followed with a firstpitch, run-scoring single with Johnson speeding around the bases to score for a 7-0 advantage.

Callaway didn’t threaten over the final three innings, leaving a runner at first in the fifth and another at first in the sixth. The Cavaliers went in order in the seventh.

PCHS (31-3), the top seed, set the school record for wins in a season while running its winning streak to 24 games, while improving to 6-8 in quarterfinal series. Pierce County’s “Elite 8” twin blanking of eighthseed Callaway (22-15) was their second in two years in the third round. The Bears blanked Crisp County last season with two “run-rule” victories.

PCHS also set a new mark for fewest runs allowed through three rounds with three eclipsing the mark of seven set last year. The Bears’ pitching staff has tossed four shutouts in six games. They recorded five shutouts in six games last year through the quarterfinals.

Pierce County will host regionmate Cook (22-12), seeded 12th, in a “Final Four” matchup scheduled to begin today (Wednesday, May 13) with a doubleheader starting at 4 p.m. The “if’ game is slated for Thursday, May 14 at 5 p.m.

The Hornets, who have won 10 of their last 12 outings, swept 21st-seed Jackson in the first round. They upset fifth-seed Columbus winning the “if” game. Cook then ousted fourth-seed Redan with a two-game sweep.

PCHS, making its sixth “Final Four” appearance and third in five years, has dominated the Hornets, who are meeting for the third time in the playoffs dating back to 1997. Pierce County has posted victories in each of the last 10 matchups. Cook won that first round meeting taking the “if” game.

The Bears swept the two-game regular season series in 2013. They followed with a sweep of the 2025 three-game regular season series and 2025 second round playoff series. PCHS also captured the 2026 three-game regular season series.

Pierce County, 3-2 in the semifinals, will be trying to advance to its fourth state title series. The Bears advanced in 1994, beating Gainesville in an “if” game, 2012 beating Lovett in an “if” game, and 2017 with a sweep of Coahulla Creek.

The Bears lost the “if” game at home to Redan in 2022 and was swept in 2025 at eventual champion Rockmart.

Second-seed Morgan County (304), winners in seven of its last nine games after having a 20-game winning streak snapped, will meet 19th-seed Franklin County (20-14) in the other semifinal series, beating sixth-seed Appling County 11-5 in an “if” game.

Pierce County’s scoring burst was fueled by the first six batters recording two hits apiece to lead the 14-hit attack.

For the second straight game, the Bears scored the only run they would eventually need in the first inning. Beck Hodges (2-for-4) lined a one-out single and was erased on Jack McClellan’s (2for-4) fielder’s choice groundout.

Jonathan Stone (2-for-2, double) followed with a first-pitch single with McClellan racing to third. Dylan Johnson (2-for-3) ripped a 1-2 offering to left, scoring McClellan for the early 1-0 lead.

After Brantley Willis (4 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 K, 0 BB, 2 HBP) pitched around consecutive one-out singles in the bottom of the first, PCHS took charge in the top of the second, sending 10 batters to the plate and scoring six runs for a 7-0 lead.

Christopher Osbourne (1-for-4) stroked a leadoff single. He advanced to second on Bryson Smith’s sacrifice bunt. The fireworks started two batters later with a Chance Williams (2-for-4, two doubles) run-scoring double starting a string of six consecutive batters reaching. A routine fly ball by Hodges for the third out was dropped with Williams scoring for a 3-0 lead. Hodges, who chugged into second on the miscue, scored on McClellan’s single.

Stone and Johnson were each hit loading the bases. All three runners scored on a Brantley Willis (2-for-4, double) single and an error, pushing the lead out to 7-0.

PCHS put two on in the third with a one-out single by Grayson Arington (1for-2) and double by Williams. Arington was tagged out at the plate, trying to score on Hodges’ fly ball to left.

The Bears tacked on a run in the fourth. McClellan lined a leadoff single and scored from first on Stone’s double to left, upping the margin to 8-0.

After leaving two stranded in the fifth, Pierce County put the game on ice with a two-run sixth.

Stone drew a leadoff walk and was removed for courtesy runner Garrett Stevenson. After Johnson followed with a single, a passed ball advanced both runners. Willis ripped a 3-2 offering for a two-run double for the final runs of the game.

Stone and Emmitt Hall each worked an inning apiece in relief of Willis. Stone retired the side in order in the fifth fanning one. Hall surrendered a leadoff hit before setting down the next three batters, one via strikeout.

PCHS is looking to become just the 12th public school (33 private schools) to sweep titles. Pierce County can join Bleckley County (2017), Telfair County and Brantley County (2025) as the only public schools to accomplish the feat since the GHSA (Georgia High School Association) went to the team format in 1995.

The top-seed Lady Bears (231), winners of five straight matches with four coming in the state tournament, earned their first-ever bid to the championship match, overpowering the fourth-seed Lady Bulldogs (12-10) 3-0.

Pierce County will face 6thseed regionmate Appling County (17-2), winners of nine straight matches, today (Wednesday, May 13) in the championship match at the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College at 9 a.m. The Lady Bears won the March 17 regular season Region 3-AA match 3-2 in Baxley.

The Lady Pirates have knocked off 27th-seed Shaw, 11th-seed Sumter County, third-seed Columbus and 15thseed Stephens County.

PCHS (1-4 in the semis) was making its fifth all-time appearance (2012 vs. Westminster, 2013 - Woodward Academy, 2023 - Berrien, 2025 - Columbus) in the “Final Four”.

The top-seed and defending state champion Bears (22-2) stretched their winning streak to 14 consecutive matches with a hard-fought 3-2 win over the Bulldogs (17-4). It marked the fifth 3-2 victory for PCHS against two losses this season.

Pierce County was making its second consecutive appearance in the semis and third overall (2014 - Woodward Academy, 2025 Sonoraville). PCHS, 2-1 in the “Final Four”, has won in nine consecutive rounds during the state tournament over the past two seasons.

The Bears will meet 3rd-seed Columbus (195), winners of six straight matches, in a finals rematch of the 2025 championship, played in Bearville. PCHS escaped with a 3-2 victory to claim its first-ever state title in tennis.

The Blue Devils advanced to the finals, beating 30th-seed South Atlanta, 14th-seed Rockmart, sixth-seed Murray County and seventh-seed Appling County.

No. 1 Lady Bears................................3 No. 4 Morgan County ........................0

Pierce County, which has not dropped a set in the state tournament, lost just three games in its three victories and seven total with two matches pulled.

Marlee Kate Wetherington posted a 6-1, 61 decision at No. 1 singles over Lyssa Schafer. Mattie Lee’s No. 2 match against Makenna Cannington was pulled with Lee up 6-0, 4-1. Jasmine Sergent led 6-3, 5-0 at No. 3 over Lilianne Piche when play was stopped.

Neither doubles duo had any trouble. The No. 1 team of Eva Horne and Abby Higginson blanked Lindsey Yang and Julia Maddox 6-0, 6-0. The No. 2 tandem of Addie Brown and Riley Chambless rolled 6-1, 6-0 over Georgia Yinger and Nolie Simmons.

No. 1 Bears ........................................3 No. 4 Morgan County ........................2

J.C. Nimmer’s third-set tie-breaking win at No. 1 singles supplied the winning point for the Bears against Morgan County.

Nimmer outlasted Massimo Polano 6-3, 36, 7-6 (7-3). Jeb Bradley dropped his three-set marathon at No. 2 with Aiden West falling 64, 0-6, 6-4. Aaden Carlson held off Leyton Hull at No. 3 winning 6-2, 6-4.

The No. 1 doubles duo of Kellen Roberts and Colby Coates outlasted Charlie Arnold and Landon Behrndt 6-4, 6-3. The No. 2 team of Greyson Rodgers and Thomas Lucas fell 6-4, 6-4 to Lachlen Behrndt and Peyton Houser.

Both the Lady Bears and Bears will be joined by 11 other programs, who finished in the Top 3 in Area tournaments, in the 36-hole event, which concludes Tuesday, May 19.

The Lady Bears, the Area 2 champions, are attempting to reach rarefied air with a fifth consecutive state title and eighth overall (2000, 2005, 2019, 2022-25). Only four schools have won five or more consecutive titles.

Small school power Lake Oconee Academy (2018-25) leads the way with a current streak of seven (split by COVID in 2020) across Class A Public and Class A DII.

Class 6A Lambert has won the last six titles (2019-25) in the highest classification (Class 6A, Class 7A). Vidalia (Class 2A 2013-17) and Lambert (Class 6A, Class 7A - 2013-17) had streaks end at five.

The Lady Bears, who shot the second-lowest score in the Area tournaments with a 158, will be joined by Area 1 teams Columbus (171), Morgan County (178) and Pike County (194). Burke County (172) and Appling County (187) qualified out of Area 2.

The Area 3 representatives are Coahulla Creek (192), Sonoraville (197) and Union County (198). Area 4 champions Hart County (153) posted the lowest score in Area competition. The Lady Bulldogs will be joined by Stephens County (182) and Drew Charter (195).

The Bears are seeking their first title since 2017 and fifth overall (1988-89, 2009). PCHS (320) finished third at the Area 2 tournament behind Thomson (316, lowest in Area tournaments) and Burke County (319).

Area 1 will be represented by Pike County (332), Morgan County (334) and defending champion Columbus (343). Schools from Area 3 are Sonoraville (327), Coahulla Creek (335) and Ringgold (335).

Hart County (332), Drew Charter (340) and Stephens County (346) will represent Area 4.

The fifth-seed Lady Bears’ (13-4) had their 13match winning streak and 13-match scoreless streak ended by the fourth-seed Lady Blue Devils (13-5), who won their ninth consecutive match.

PCHS’s bid for its firstever “Final Four” appearance was the fifth attempt in program history. The Lady Bears have reached the quarterfinals the last three years.

Host Columbus broke through for three goals over the final 20 minutes of the first half on goals by Sophia Bussey, Clara Fuller and Bryleigh Fekete for a 30 halftime advantage.

The Lady Blue Devils received goals from Savannah Adams and Maddie Maholick in the second half.

Columbus will meet top-seed defending champion Pike County in the semifinals. Union County, seeded 14th, travels to second- seed Coahulla Falls in the other semifinal matchup.

The region champion Lady Bears had nine players recognized for all-Region 3-AA honors by region coaches. Maya Cochran was tabbed the Most Outstanding Player of the Year with head coach Abby Cuneo receiving Coach of the Year honors.

Four players were named First Team all-Region. The list includes Liza Thornton, Brylee Walker, Kaylee Figueroa and Addie Jordan.

Sylvie Branch, Jayli Sierra and Isabella Marx received Second Team all-Region recognition. Emma Strickland earned honorable mention status.

Both meetings will be held at 201 Arnold Road in St. Simons Island. For more information, please contact Emily Sirmons at 912-4497101.

Daylily Society Garden Tour and Luncheon South Georgia Daylily Society will hold its traveling garden tour and annual luncheon 8:30 a.m. Saturday, May 16. Fried chicken will be provided and everyone is asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

The start and end location will be at the Tanners, 5120 Allen Walker Road, Blackshear.

Dress is casual. The menu will be finger foods, grazing tables, desserts and refreshments. No alcohol will be served, but BYOB is welcome.

The cost is $50 for singles and $95 for couples. Deposit is $25 per attendee by July 17 with the balance due September 30. Payment by Venmo or Cashapp preferred. Venmo: @classof1991pchs. Cashapp: $Classof1991pchs.

If another payment method is needed please contact keelydowling@gmail.com

Mary Kathryn Tomberlin of Bristol, Georgia, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at Georgia Southern University.

Membership in Phi Kappa Phi is by invitation only to the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and 7.5 percent of juniors. The Society’s mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.”

For more information, please visit www.PhiKappaPhi. org.

University of Georgia Five Pierce County residents will be among the 9,477 graduates of the University of Georgia in spring semester, 2026.

Graduates include Knox Bennett, Fairol Carbaugh, Jerry Jarrell, Kenneth Bennett and Luke Bennett, all of Blackshear.

“We are excited to recognize the achievements of our University of Georgia students in the Class of 2026,” said President Jere W. Morehead. “Commencement represents a chance to celebrate outstanding accomplishments and honor the families and friends who supported these students on their journeys. We look forward to seeing the many ways these graduates will continue to represent the University of Georgia as proud alumni.”

DJ Shockley, highly awarded former UGA and Atlanta Falcons quarterback, will deliver the undergraduate address.

The University of Georgia in Athens is the state’s flagship university.

Pierce County voters will vote in the Republican, Democratic and non-partisan primary election next Tuesday, May 19.

Turnout during the early voting period has been low. At press time Monday, only 884 residents had cast ballots, out of a total of active, registered voters.

Those numbers are significantly lower than the 1,046 who had voted by this point in 2024 and the 1,150 who had cast ballots by the same point in 2022. Turn out in both those elections was less than 25 percent.

Voters are encouraged to cast ballots in the election.

In the only county-wide race on the ballot, Incumbent County Chairman Neal Bennett will face challenger Austin Boatright.

In district two, retail manager Jason Christmas, former Blackshear Mayor Dick Larson and contractor Jerry Ed Rich Jr. will be on the Republican ballot.

If no candidate receives 50 percent plus one, a run-off election will be held Tuesday, June 16.

The winner of the Republican race will succeed current second district commissioner Graham Raley. Raley announced earlier this year he is moving out of district two next year and would not run for reelection.

Voters in district four will choose between incumbent David Lowman and challenger Austin Moore.

All candidates are running as Republicans, meaning the races will be settled May 19 or by June 16, if a run-off is necessary in district 2.

Voters will also make their choices for Republican and Democratic nominees on a number of federal, statewide and district offices including U.S. Senate, the first District seat for U.S. Congress, Governor, Lieutentant Governor and all state constitutional offices.

Early voting for the May 19 primary election is already underway.

Early voting will be held from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. through this Friday, May 15. All early voting will take place at the Courthouse Annex, 312 Nichols St, Blackshear.

There will be no early voting Monday, May 18.

Election Day will be May 19. Polling places will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Pierce County Gym on College Avenue in Blackshear and Eagle Station on Williams Street in Patterson. Voters can check their polling place at mvp.sos.ga.gov.

Voters are also reminded to bring a physical photo identification. Cell phone photos taken of the identification will not be acceptable.

For more information, please call the board of elections office at (912) 4492028.

The ceremony is scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday, May 15 in Bear Stadium.

According to PCHS principal Dr. Brandi Todd, the start time may be adjusted earlier or later in the event of inclement weather. If weather forces a delay until Saturday morning, the ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m. (weather permitting).

“If we are unable to have the ceremony on Saturday morning, plans will be announced for an inside ceremony,” said Todd.

All rescheduling updates will be posted on the PCHS Facebook page and sent to parents and students through ParentSquare. The ceremony will be livestreamed on NFHS Network.

All traffic will enter the campus from one of the two roundabouts on County Farm Road. No other entrances to the high school will be open. Local law enforcement will direct parking, filling every space as visitors arrive. If you need handicapped parking, please arrive early as these spaces will fill quickly. Guests needing handicapped parking should enter the campus from the roundabout nearest the middle school and notify the officer on duty of his or her need for handicapped parking. Regular parking for this event will fill up as well, so please arrive early.

“If you can carpool, please do so,” said Dr. Todd.

Todd also reminds all guests to be courteous and respectful at the ceremony.

“We would like to remind you that this is a dignified ceremony. Please do not bring air-horns into the stadium. Waters will be sold in the concession stand, cash only,” she said.

Senior honors night will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 14 in the PCHS Gym.

This event is invitationonly. Only students who are honor graduates or who will be recognized individually will attend. Honors night is a formal ceremony. Participating students will wear full cap and gown attire. The event will be livestreamed on the NFHS Network.

Born and raised in the Forks of the Hurricane in the shadow of Beulah Baptist Church, Gene, now 87, spent his boyhood working on the farm with his parents, Elmer and Myrtle Davis, and siblings, Huey, Paul and Linda. A natural talent on the piano, Gene and his high school buddies, under the sponsorship of Mr. S.V. Lee, won the FFA State String Band Championship in the year of his graduation, 1955. The contest judge was Jerry Reed.

After serving in the U.S. Army, Gene returned to Southeast Georgia to hone his legendary piano skills.

He married a Bacon County girl, Marjorie Ellen Carnes, and they raised their four children in Alma, where Gene also started a small business specializing in floor covering. All enjoyed the get-together, and everyone could tell it did Davis much good to be back home in Blackshear with family and friends.

Gene commented thatboth the company and the seafood buffet were outstanding. And it was good to have one of Pierce County’s favorite sons back in town!

The seventh-seed Bears (14-5) were making their second “Final Four” appearance, and first since 2023. They lost 5-0 to Providence Christian.

PCHS meets fourthseed and Region 3-AA champion Savannah Arts Academy (16-6) today (Wednesday, May 13) at 7:30 p.m., on the St. Pius X Catholic School campus.

The Panthers shutout PCHS 2-0 during the April 3 regular season meeting in Savannah.

“We have long believed that Region 3 was the most competitive region in Class AA,” said Bears’ head coach Tommy Doss. “Wednesday, Region 3 will have won the AA state championship three of the last four years. We just hope it will be us who wins it.”

Tattnall County won its first-ever title in 2023 with Toombs County following in 2024 with its first. For PCHS and Savannah Arts Academy, it will mark their first championship

‘Final Four’ semifinals No. 7 Bears ..............2 No. 6 Pike Co. ..1 (SD) 

McQuaig’s goal in the second sudden death penalty kick phase proved to be the winner when a Pike County attempt sailed over the crossbar.

Pierce County fell into a 1-0 first-half hole against the Pirates.

“We knew we would, again, be facing a similar challenge to the Hart County game (“Elite 8”, 10 win),” said head coach Tommy Doss. “They (Pirates) were by far the biggest/ tallest group of players we have faced, with several players between 6-foot-1 and 6-foot-3 in height.”

According to Doss, Pike County’s greatest strength was their long throwins/ set pieces.

“They also had a player who could throw the ball over halfway across the field,” he said. “This provided them many opportunities to score.”

Despite trailing 1-0 at intermission, Doss said the team felt confident in how they were playing in the last part of the first half.

After being denied on attacks at the net in the second half, Alex Lacot finally found the back of the netting late in the match to even the score at 1apiece.

Neither team scored the rest of regulation or in the two 10-minute overtime periods, sending the match to penalty kicks.

PCHS scored on three of its five kicks, getting scores from Kade Meeks, Fleming Cochran and Lacot. Pike County scored three times with goalie Lucas Sapp blocking two.

The Bears missed on their first sudden death kick with Sapp making a huge save, forcing a second sudden death period.

‘Elite 8’ No. 7 Bears...............1 No. 15 Hart Co. ........0

BEARVILLE — Lacot’s goal 10 minutes into the matchup with Hart County stood the test of time, helping PCHS reach its second “Final Four” match in program history.

Lacot banged home a 20-yard kick past the Bulldogs’ goalie for an early 10 lead.

Doss said the PCHS defense displayed a bend, but don’t break mentality in beating Hart County.

“Their (Bulldogs) most dangerous threats came from long throw-ins combined with a height advantage,” said Doss.

The defense, composed of Austin Branch, Alejandro Perez, Harrison Dia, Meeks and Sapp at goalie kept Hart County at bay despite the pinball action in the box.

Sponsorship forms can be obtained by emailing manager.coralcove@gmail.com. In addition to sponsorship opportunities, the family is also raising funds by selling Pepsi products. If interested, please contact them at the email address listed above for more information.

Rains across the state in recent weeks have helped to curb the high wildfire danger risk, but the Georgia Forestry Commission has kept a burn man in effect for the southeastern part of the state.

The burn ban was put in place Wednesday, April 22, in response to ongoing wildfires in South Georgia including a large 22,000-plus acre fire in neighboring Brantley County.

A similar, large 30,000 acre wildfire is also raging in rural, sparsely populated areas of Clinch and Echols County near the Georgia-Florida line.

The burn ban prohibits all types of burning including prescribed burns as well as the burning of yard debris and agricultural material.

Those violating the ban are subject to arrest or fines. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office has already made one arrest and issued two citations in connection with illegal burning in violation of the ban.

Three eighth grade students from Pierce County Middle School received top honors: Hadley Arington — Small Specialty Animal, Area 6 Winner, Braylee Oliver — Poultry, Area 6 Winner and Jackson Ferrell — Environmental & Natural Resources, Area 6 Winner and State Winner.

FFA members participated in leadership sessions, competitions and career development events alongside other FFA students from across the state.

“These students demonstrated outstanding dedication and excellence in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects and represented their local FFA program at a high level. Middle school agriculture students gain real world experience through SAE record books,” said Dr. Krista Morris. “Students track information related to hands-on projects in areas like animal care, plants and agribusiness while recording expenses, time and skills gained.”

The SAE program is meant to help build responsibility, organization and financial literacy, connecting classroom learning to real-life experiences. Projects may include gardening, raising animals, and small business ventures that help students explore future career paths.