This year, Roger Hawke is creating plaques carved from wood for Jones County’s veterans. DEBBIE LURIE-SMITH/Staff
July 1, 2026
Multiple tug-of-war competitions were among the highlights at the June 25 Independence Day Extravaganza held at the Vallant Bank Recreation Complex that ended with an amazing fireworks display. SEE MORE PHOTOS >> PAGES A6-7 BRAD HARRISON/Staff
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Extravaganza
Javian Gibson was awarded the Gray Alpha Scholarship given by Donald Black. Javian will attend the College of Costal GA this fall. He plans to become a teacher of middle school students. Pictured are members program participants who are members of Middle GA graduate chapters of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Rev. LeQuint Caswell, Donald Black, Javian Gibson, Dr. Rufus Johnson and Joseph Lindsey.
President-elect Tom Jones of the Jones County Kiwanis Club presented a check for $750 to Cindi Gaskins, founder and director of Jay’s Hope. Also present to receive the donation was Kylie Seitz, who started out as one of the many children helped by Jay’s Hope and currently is a staffer there. Cindi is a resident of Jones County. The Kiwanis club donates annually to this outstanding organization, which helps so many children who are fighting cancer along with their families.
St. Paul A.M.E. Church-Clinton recently celebrated Senior Day. The theme as Divergent Paths – Your Choice. Dr. Rufus Johnson was the guest speaker. Pictured: Rodshune Head – Leadership Spaulding County, Javian Gibson, Quamillia Daniel, and Destiny Curry. Not present were De’Ajah Farley and Keith-Grazier Demond McCrary.