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tizing spending that serves the best interest of the people whom I serve. Thirdly, I will use the acronym V.I.S.A to explain my third reason: V is for the vision that I will bring to the office of County Commissioner. A vision to explore new industries that can be brought to the county for growth to make it an attractive place to live. I is for integrity by being fair, just, and honest. S is for structure. I pledge to work hard with the board to make sure things are done as stated in 1 Corinthians 14:40: 'decently and in order.' A is for accountability. I will work tirelessly with the board to make sure that we are accountable for every dollar spent, every promise kept, and every act accomplished.

3. Three issues that I feel currently facing the people of Montgomery County include the following: Infrastructure — My discussion of infrastructure highlights unpaved roads to be specific. I will work closely with members of the County Commission to make an effort to make sure all roads, especially roads along school bus routes, are safe for the transportation of the student population.

Streetlights — I've spoken with some residents in the county who are concerned about proper streetlights in certain areas in the county. As a county commissioner, I represent my district, but I feel that we are elected to serve all the people in Montgomery County.

County Taxes — I will work continuously to become informed about how taxes are used and paid reasonably, based on income and property value. There should be transparency in the process, I feel. Taxes have always been a challenge and will continue to be; however, as a servant of the people of Montgomery County, I pledge to be fair and forthright when it comes to solving tax issues.

4. Three goals that I want to accomplish while in office are as follows: 1. Keeping Property Taxes Low: I will work tirelessly to ensure that property taxes remain low, providing relief to families and businesses in our community.

2. Effective and Efficient Use of Tax Dollars: I am committed to making sure that every dollar spent is used effectively and not wasted, ensuring that our county’s resources are utilized to their fullest potential.

3. Humble and Collaborative Leadership: I will serve with humility, always listening to your concerns and working together to find the best solutions for our community. Teamwork and collaboration will be at the core of my approach.

As your County Commissioner, I will ensure that our district’s needs are met. I am dedicated to representing all residents of District 2 and working hard for the entire county. Commissioner – District 3

Ginger Byrd Morris (R) (Incumbent)

1. I graduated from Montgomery County Schools, attended Brewton- Parker College and obtained my advanced educational degrees from Georgia Southern University. I hold an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership. I retired as an Assistant Superintendent for the Vidalia City School System and now serve part-time as a School Improvement Specialist in the Montgomery County School System. I am a member of First Baptist Mount Vernon and teach Sunday School. I serve as a Trustee for Brewton-Parker College. I am a past Chair of the Greater Vidalia Chamber of Commerce. I am the daughter of Tommy Byrd and the late Virginia Byrd. I am married to Allen Morris, have two daughters, Jade Morris Wells (Trent) and Jesslen Morris Holcomb (Randall). As a commissioner, I am a member of the Association of County Commissioners (ACCG) and serve as a statewide committee member on the Lifelong Learning Committee which serves to develop courses for new commissioners.

2. I am seeking reelection as commissioner because I believe there is still work to be done. We have moved our county forward but there is still a lot to accomplish. This office requires the ability to work well together, to have a vision for the future, and to be able to execute that vision. My entire life has been of service to others in my role as an educator. I believe my skill set and expertise as an educator and administrator serves me well in working with others and within a budget to meet the goals and needs of our community. In my roles as teacher, building level administration and system level administration, I have developed a strong skill set in working as a team, listening to the needs and concerns of the public, creating and executing visions for our future, and working within a budget to meet the needs of our community. As a previous Federal Programs Director, I understand funding, grants, and maximizing federal/ state funding for our community. I know that my training and experience as a current commissioner will continue to benefit our county and communities going forward in working with local, state and national officials.

3. Three issues facing our county that I will prioritize as commissioner are property tax concerns, infrastructure, and safety. Our community is concerned with property taxes. Last spring, I spoke in a community forum regarding my concerns that this issue was not just a local issue but a state issue that needed to be addressed at that level. Listening to my constituents, I spoke with state leaders and ACCG leadership and asked that this be addressed at that level. Our voices were heard and House Bill 581 was sent to the Governor for his signature and will now go before the people in a referendum in November. Our citizens need relief, and I will work to seek funding from diverse sources and not just property owners. Infrastructure is a main responsibility of county commissioners. It is our responsibility to see that all roads within our jurisdiction are maintained and open for travel and business in our county. Helene has proved that to do business, roads have to be open. I will continue to prioritize upkeep of the roads, replacement of pipes and maintaining ditches to ensure the safe travel of our citizens.Lastly, I will prioritize public safety. This includes the Sheriff’s office, 911, Emergency Medical Services and fire protection. This is a top responsibility and concern as a commissioner. My goal is to guarantee the safety needs of our citizens in a quick and efficient manner by addressing the needs of our public safety departments to perform effectively.

4. Three goals I want to accomplish this term include road improvement, updated recreational facilities, and county/city cooperation. Good roads are important for the safety of our citizens and for economic viability. I will work with other commissioners and the Road Department to develop and execute a plan for tackling road concerns in a timely and efficient manner. I will work to secure grants at the federal level giving us more funds to work on additional road issues such as full depth reclamation and resurfacing of existing paved county maintained roads without costing our citizens money. The $3 million dollar funding will allow us to upgrade to a state of the art recreational facility that will be able to host athletic events at the regional/state level and other community events that will boost our economy and businesses in the community. It will also provide activities for all citizens increasing the health and well-being of our community at no cost to the taxpayer! Lastly, to grow as a county, it requires working together as a county and individual cities within the county. While commissioners have no jurisdiction in cities, we must have a spirit of cooperation for the good of the county. In doing so, I will prioritize working with city and county leaders to develop and maintain our comprehensive plan where each city is heard, and where needs are addressed and prioritized so that we can all benefit in our county. As I have said before, “Working together, we all achieve more!” Linda Jackson Page (D) 1. I obtained my GED at 18 years old, and ultimately earned my doctorate in Education Administration and Supervision several years later from Northcentral University. I was married to my husband, Charles, for 40 years until his passing recently. I am involved in many local organizations or have worked with many great charities. It is impossible to name them all here. I am a proud member of the Vidalia, Montgomery and Treutlen County Lions Club and serve as the Vendor Coordinator for the Vidalia Lions Club Arts and Crafts Show. I am a member of the McGregor Presbyterian Church in McGregor.

2. As a child I moved frequently. My mother and stepdad (#4) moved to Vidalia when I was 15 (10th grade), my 27th School move between 4th & 10th grade. I longed for a home and stability as I had known my first 6 years of life, growing up in my grandparents’ house. Once grown, I married a military man, and lived in several different locations before my then-husband was assigned to a local recruiting station. We returned to Vidalia, where we lived several years before divorcing. I remarried a local man and after our four children were grown, we moved back to Montgomery County, where I had longed to be since 1976. Montgomery’s “good folks” reeled me into a sincere and great love for the regular folk, like me. I want to be the voice of the many, not the few! I want my grandchildren and great grandchildren to live and thrive here in this wonderfully rural area.

I love this County and especially interactions with our citizenry. I want to be your Voice, listening to everyone who wants to be heard and joining a Conversation that leads to a productive future of growth and employment opportunities for future generations. 3. First, it is my priority to make it well known that I am accessible and my main focus is on Our Country's citizens, especially in my district and work to solve issues and answer their questions. If I have to do research to find answers for them I will get back to them after my research is completed as thoroughly as possible. Commissioners are not elected to serve the few but to walk beside All Our citizens listening, intently to them and seeking the best resolution to all issues.

Secondly, I will push forward to create Tax Initiatives that will support all citizens and their taxes as we move forward into the uncertainty of our County’s tomorrows with a large group of aging citizens. MOCO’s government isn’t but should be a Government of the People of MOCO not a select few who don’t see the people who pay the taxes as the reason they are in office. We need to change that this election season.

Thirdly, but as important as others, I will assure our County moves into this digitally controlled age so that our county is transparent Online using the digital age’s technology effectively to keep citizens informed.I will push and work with my colleagues to assure that all the County’s business (not covered by laws with regard to individual personnel), is easily accessible online from an individual's phone or laptop.

4. My goals are to create transparency in our county government, develop a comprehensive plan to make sure that the government is available to the people, and be a servant leader of constituents. I want to be a true Community leader that works with all organizations and citizens to build a Coalition that will stand together and work diligently to make everyday life better for everyone in Our County. We have many people who are in need. The needs of our Community are complex but yet simple. There are those who need someone to help them understand how to apply for aid that is readily available to those in need but don’t know who and what is available to help them. Together we can bring positive change continued from page

for Our future.We need to create a group/s that will reach out to one another to garner what needs are specifically needed and the who, where and how we organize our Montgomery County Helpers Society to aid every citizen in their quest to live a good and productive life in our midst. Uvalda City Council Special Election Tonya M. Donaldson

1. I am a graduate of Brewton-Parker College with a Business Degree. I retired after 20 years with the Georgia Department of corrections. I am a member of several genealogical organizations, historical organizations, Daughter of American Revolution, United Daughters of Confederacy, Daughters of the War of 1812 and Georgia Salzburger’s. I am single with a Yorkie named Ellie Mae.

2. I decided to run for city council to help improve Uvalda. I feel I would be an asset in revitalizing our city and working wih the county to provide resources our citizens need. I feel with my business background I can help with a plan to move our city forward.

3. If elected I would like to work with the council in updating our ordinances, policies and plans for improvement. I would like to clean up our city and make it more pleasing for the people who pass through. Our roads need work and the downtown needs updates.

4. One of the goals I would like to active it to clean up the city cemetery. The trees need to be removed, the graves cleaned around and overall make it a nice place for our loved ones. I would like to update the downtown area. Work with the store owners to restore the buildings. Work on grants to update and restore the buildings. Since the storm I would like to clean the brush and downed trees for those that need help. I would request an inmate crew for a week to come in and help to remove and clean up.

Stephanie Kerr

At the time of press, Kerr had not submitted a questionnaire.

Toombs County

Sheriff

Jordan Kight (R)

1. I am Jordan Kight, a lifelong resident of Toombs County. I graduated from Toombs County High School and obtained a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. I completed the Professional Management Program for GBI at Columbus State University, Command Staff training by the Georgia Sheriff’s Association, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development program, and Greater Vidalia Leadership Training. My wife Natalie and I have three children. In 2002, I began working with the GBI as a Drug Agent and was later promoted to Assistant Commander. In 2015, I began working with the Toombs County Sheriff’s Office, overseeing investigations and daily operations.

2. I was blessed with a deep desire to serve our community in hopes of making it a better place. Law enforcement has been a rewarding experience that continues to fuel my passion to serve our community. From the beginning of my career, I have taken advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow in this profession. I was afforded immense leadership and management training through the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Georgia Sheriff’s Association, along with the mentorship I received from my supervisors with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Sheriff. During my role as an Assistant Commander and now as a Captain with the Sheriff’s Office, I am tasked with oversight of operations, personnel, grants, budget, expenditures, and equipment. Additionally, I have maintained a working relationship with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to expand our capabilities. I will utilize my leadership abilities to extend my vision and core values to our staff through training and leading by example. This will help the Sheriff’s Office better serve our community.

3. Violent crimes stemming from gangs in our cities are at an all-time high. I will work to strengthen our ability to combat the gangs. Continuing to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to increase our resources and abilities is a must. I will seek grants that will help provide more manpower and training to make us more effective.

Mental health issues are increasing, and state and federal resources are overwhelmed. This has mainly put the liability of handling citizens suffering from mental health issues on our local law enforcement. We have made great strides at the Sheriff’s Office to find additional resources for help and for training of our entire staff to include Jail Officers, Dispatchers, and Deputies. We must continue to seek opportunities and plan to become self-sufficient. We cannot rely on the state or federal government to help us; we must be proactive in looking for more solutions.

Drug addiction affects the community in more ways than our citizens realize. It has a direct impact on increasing crime, increasing the homeless population, causing a breakdown in home life, damage to property, and loss of life. All these issues cost the taxpayer as well. This is why the Sheriff’s Office has taken a proactive approach by partnering with our community to obtain grants that have allowed us to put together community organizations to address these issues. I will continue to advocate and help build our support system to help people with addiction become productive citizens.

4. The Sheriff’s Office must invest in our youth and the community surrounding them. Children are introduced to drugs, violence, and sexual content well before they are mature enough to understand the dangers associated with them. It is vital that the Sheriff’s Office works with community organizations to develop new ideas and ways to reach and protect our youth. The goal is to build a trusting relationship that will allow the Sheriff’s Office to lead our youth in the right direction.

As crime continues to rise, it is imperative that law enforcement be more proactive. We must continue seeking and implementing the latest training for our deputies. Maintaining relationships with our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies will ensure that we have the manpower and resources to battle crime effectively. Community policing is another key element in combating crime. We need the public’s help to do our jobs. Community policing helps us build relationships and trust with our citizens, allowing law enforcement to receive information and tips about crime. This also helps citizens feel safe coming forward with information that aids us in solving or stopping crime.

Most functions of law enforcement are dependent on tax funding. We will work with our county government to keep the budget low without sacrificing service. Utilization of grants and cost-effective spending will help the Sheriff’s Office save tax dollars and still implement the latest technology. We must go to great lengths in researching items or services we purchase to ensure they are cost-effective.

Rodney Wardlaw (Write-In) 1. I have dedicated 14 years to a career in law enforcement, currently serving as a supervisory deputy at the Toombs County Sheriff’s Office. My educational journey includes graduating from Toombs County High School and obtaining degrees in Law Enforcement and Liberal Arts from Thomas University. My extensive community involvement spans over 20 years, during which I have worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of families and our community’s youth. On a personal note, I am happily married to my best friend Ariel, and together we are blessed with five amazing boys.

2. “Safety First, Community Always: Upholding Integrity and Transparency in Every Action” is my mission statement and the driving force behind my decision to run for sheriff. Toombs County is my home, and it and the people within our community are near and dear to my heart and I am committed to serving and protecting the people of our great community with integrity. After recently enduring a community-changing disaster, I have an even greater desire to serve to ensure the safety and prosperity of the place we all call home.

Leadership is not just about directing, but inspiring and empowering others. My leadership qualities have been demonstrated through my ability to lead teams in high-pressure situations, make critical decisions, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. I have consistently shown that I can guide a department towards excellence, ensuring that every member feels valued and motivated to serve the public to the best of their ability. It is a dedication that goes beyond the call of duty, seeing public service not just as a job but as a calling. It is about being there for the community during their most challenging times and celebrating during their moments of triumph.

3. Once I am elected as your sheriff, there are three things I would implement to promote positive change: community outreach programs, advanced training for all levels and recruiting and retention.

Community Outreach Programs: I believe in the power of community policing, where law enforcement and citizens work hand-in-hand. To this end, I will introduce innovative outreach initiatives such as town hall meetings, youth mentorship programs, citizen’s academy, and public safety workshops. These programs will not only educate and engage citizens but also provide valuable feedback to shape our policing strategies.

Advanced Training:

Operationally, I would require more advanced training for deputies at all levels. Currently, advanced training is reserved mostly for administrative staff, while front line deputies are only required to complete the 20-hour state mandated training. Training for deputies is crucial because they interact more frequently with the community. It is imperative that our frontline deputies have the right temperament and are equipped with the knowledge and expertise necessary to ensure positive interactions with our citizens daily.

Recruiting and Retention: Attracting and retaining the best talent is crucial for maintaining a high standard of policing. I will implement a comprehensive recruiting strategy that emphasizes diversity, professionalism, and community service. We will offer competitive benefits, continuous professional development, and a supportive work environment that values each member’s contributions. By recognizing and rewarding excellence, we will ensure that our deputies are not only skilled but also committed to long-term service.

4. As a citizen and with 14 years in law enforcement, I understand the challenges our community faces. My goals in office include reducing crime, increasing transparency, and addressing substance abuse and mental health.

Reduce Crime

Restore Agency Relationships: I will prioritize rebuilding relationships between the Sheriff’s office and local, state, and federal agencies to create a unified response to crime.

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Force: I plan to establish a task force with officers from Lyons PD, Vidalia PD, and Toombs County Sheriff’s Office to target gang, drug, and violent activity.

Jail Diversion: I will integrate vocational programs in jail, helping inmates earn GEDs and trade certifications, which will reduce crime by aiding their reintegration into society.

Increase Transparency Body Cameras: Deputies will be required to wear body cams to ensure transparency and accountability.

Sheriff’s Advisory Board: A board of 12 citizens will provide feedback on community concerns and help implement beneficial programs.

Community Briefing:

A yearly event where the public will be briefed on past and future projects, and the budget will be reviewed.

Open Door Policy: I am committed to being accessible to all citizens from day one.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Substance Abuse: I will focus on prevention, education, and rehabilitation programs in collaboration with local organizations to address substance abuse and its related criminal behaviors.

Mental Health: Otherwise often overlooked in public safety, I will ensure deputies receive training in crisis intervention and mental health awareness to handle situations with care and professionalism.

Treutlen County

Sheriff

Tommy Corbin (Incumbent) (R)

At the time of press, Corbin had not submitted a questionnaire.

Kyle Strickland (D)

1. I have been a resident of Treutlen County for most of my life. I attended Treutlen County Schools, where I graduated in 2004. I went on to join the Sheriff’s office as a Jailer, then I went to work in the Nuclear Power Circuit until I returned home in 2015. I then went back into law enforcement with the Soperton Police before going to Adrian Police, where I later became Chief. I am married with a son who also just graduated from Treutlen. I am a member of many organizations that serve people, which I have dedicated my life to.

2. I am a highly trained LEO with thousands of hours of training, I am a P.O.S.T certified Instructor, P.O.S.T certified speed detection device operation instructor, P.O.S.T certified Field Training Officer, along with many more certifications. I am on track to graduate in November from the University of Phoenix with a Degree in Criminal Justice. I am up to date on case law and criminal procedure.

3. I will implement stricter training policies for the entire department, instead of just the bare minimum each year. I will run an honest and transparent department by having accountability and keeping the public informed. I will develop a social media platform as well as be open and transparent to any and all news outlets. I will ensure all employees of the Sheriff’s Office are professional at all times. I will implement a civilian review committee to further assist in accountability to the citizens. I will ensure that all of our schools, churches, and rehabilitation facilities are well trained and organized in case of emergencies.

4. My main goal for the Sheriff’s office is honesty and transparency. The whole purpose in a public service is as it says”To serve the public”, I will ensure that is done every single day. I would like to see the department be operated more efficiently, through the better use of resources. I plan for the deputies to be more visible both day and night, and to reduce the call for service response time significantly. Iplan to have our Sheriff’s office move from the 19th century into the 21st century of policing. This will be accomplished by developing a highly trained and motivated staff who actually love what they do and seeking out the best possible use of resources within the department. I will utilize federal, state and private entity grant funds to help relieve the burden from our taxpayers.

Linda Jackson Page

Tonya Donaldson

Jordan Kight

Rodney Wardlaw

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH —Sally D. Meadows Elementary has announced Students of the Month for September. These students show pride at Sally Meadows and model how to walk the Brave Way. They do a great job of representing the PBIS motto and schoolwide expectations: Be Respectful and Value Everyone. (L to R): Back Row: Hope Williamson, Luke Sasser, Thiago Vazquez Briones, Keon Thrower, Brinley Lowery, Hannah Murray, Mason Edge, Rosalie Croft, Elijah Wiggins, Middle Row: Ellie Wall, MeCarly Powell, Camden Richardson, Adella Lumley, Journee Wideman, Herschel Sellers, Ryleigh Smith, Jeniyah Phillips, Parks Glenn, Gavin Phillips, Riley HIll, Front Row: Brody Boston, Bailey Brown, Cameron Grillon, Lee Harrison, Amiyah Taylor, Chloe Kennedy, Kayge Merrit, Mia Martinez, Rayson Fountain, Mason Anderson, and Charlie Sharpton. Not Pictured: Lora Vanness, Laney Martin, Hadleigh Akins, Carter Whisler, and Jaycee Moye.

Mrs. Bridges’ fourth grade science students learned ALL THINGS ABOUT SPACE for the first several weeks of the school year. They created solar system projects, made moon phases with Oreo cookies, designed star posters, and discovered various forms of space technology such as telescopes, space probes, and observatories. The students discovered how the orbit and tilt of the Earth determines the seasons and how the rotation of the Earth

gives us night and day. These boys and girls have been very busy this year and are excited to continue exploring fourth grade science. Left photo: Russlan Purvis, Right photo: A’lreanna Wright.

Kyle Strickland