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When I arrived in Blackshear for a book signing at “Christi’s Downsouth Living,” the whole town was abuzz with patronizing offerings regarding their hometown hero, the aforementioned Setson IV. “We just love that boy.”
“Is that not the greatest story ever?” And “He has shore put our little ole town on the map.” Ruminations in a vernacular with a local flavor that emanate from down home folk who are button popping proud for what Stetson has brought about for his hometown. On a table there was a sign with a poignant message that is commonplace in this part of the world. “Wash your hands and say your prayers. Jesus and germs are everywhere.”
A book about Stetson’s serendipitous success will make it into print down the road, and if he can lead his team to two more victories, surely someone with a Hollywood connection will come calling. Might happen anyway. After all, he will soon wear two of the important rings a Georgia boy could possess— a national championship ring from 2021 and another for winning the recent SEC championship.
Everybody loves a winner. That the Stetson Bennett story is playing out as it is over the state but especially in Deep South Georgia will warm your heart even if you hang your hat a half day or more away.
Blackshear is the home of the Pearce County Bears, and the local citizenry has a downtown statue of a Bear, which Stetson once was, dressed in Stetson’s white No. 13, Georgia jersey. All throughout the towns and counties in this state, you will find Georgia’s logo. Blackshear is proud of the Bulldogs, Stetson, and his heritage as a Pearce County Bear.
Local pride is especial when it comes to small towns. They like it when one of their own achieves headlines such as Stetson has done. It is a point of pride that he can be seen on SportsCenter but when he comes home, he hangs out in places like the Circle K station in Hoboken. He might even stop in Christie/s Downsouth Living and shop with Christi Pitts, the proprietor. After all, he is that type.
