Statesboro Magazine - July/August 2026

ONE OF THE GREATEST THINGS ABOUT EDUCATION IS THAT IT NEVER REALLY ENDS. LONG AFTER WE'VE LEFT THE classroom, we continue learning from the people we meet, the stories we hear, and the experiences that shape our communities. Every issue of Statesboro Magazine offers an opportunity to discover something new, and this Education issue celebrates learning in all its forms.

Our cover story, Living History, takes readers to the Brier Creek Battlefield where three dedicated members of the Sons of the American Revolution are keeping Revolutionary War history alive. Through historically accurate uniforms, authentic equipment, and engaging demonstrations, Lee Herron, Ted Walker, and Steve Burke volunteer countless hours portraying the Patriot ancestors who fought at Brier Creek. Their commitment ensures that an important chapter of Georgia's history is not simply remembered but experienced by new generations.

Learning begins early, and our feature Keep Chasing Wonder introduces readers to Brandi Perossa, whose passion for childhood curiosity has inspired both a new book and an innovative way for families to grow together. Her upcoming children's book, Bebe & Bailey Believe, and her Magic Minutes subscription encourage parents and children to slow down, connect, and create meaningful moments that become lifelong memories. It is a reminder that some of life's greatest blessings happen at home.

In The Community Builder, we celebrate Robert Tanner, whose 55-year career in real estate has been about far more than buying and selling property. His story is one of growing up in Statesboro, investing in the community he loves, and helping shape its future one relationship at a time. His life demonstrates that leadership is built through integrity, service, and a genuine commitment to others.

Our special Senior Living section, The Good Life, explores the many opportunities available for older adults who call Statesboro home. From cultural events and recreation to healthcare, dining and lifelong friendships, this feature highlights the vibrant lifestyle that makes our community an exceptional place to enjoy every season of life.

This issue also includes two valuable educational resources for our readers. The Bulloch County Board of Education 2026 Annual Report provides a look at the achievements, progress and vision of our local public schools, while our eight-page showcase of Ogeechee Technical College highlights the many programs, partnerships and workforce opportunities preparing students for successful careers throughout our region.

That's what this issue is really about. It's about people who teach, people who serve, people who preserve our past, and people who inspire our future. We hope you'll enjoy every page and come away reminded that learning is a voyage on which you're never too young or too old to embark.

ESTABLISHED MARCH 1, 2000

EDITOR

Jenny Starling Foss

SENIOR CREATIVE

DIRECTOR

Melanie Schmermund

DIRECTOR OF

SALES & MARKETING

Mindy Boyette

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHER

Frank Fortune

Statesboro Magazine is proudly produced by:

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, PLEASE E-MAIL: mboyette@ StatesboroMagazine.com

FOR EDITORIAL QUESTIONS, PLEASE E-MAIL: editor@ StatesboroMagazine.com

MAILING ADDRESS: P. O. BOX 1084 Statesboro, GA 30459 p: 912.489.2181

PHYSICAL ADDRESS: One Herald Square, Statesboro, GA 30458 f: 912.489.8613

CIRCULATION & COPYRIGHT

Statesboro Magazine is published bi-monthly (six issues a year) at a $25.00 annual subscription rate by Morris Multimedia, P.O. Box 1084, Statesboro, GA, 30459. Periodical postage paid at Statesboro, Georgia. Postmaster send address changes to Statesboro Magazine P.O. Box 1084, Statesboro, GA 30459. The cover and contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Statesboro Magazine. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited inquiries, manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials. They will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. Address letters and editorial contributions to Statesboro Magazine, P.O. Box 1084, Statesboro, GA 30459. Copyright © 2026 by Morris Multimedia. All rights reserved.

FRANK FORTUNE

Frank is the national award winning freelance photographer who holds the distinction of shooting 26 years’ worth of covers for Statesboro Magazine. He retired from Georgia Southern after having been responsible for capturing the University’s history on film and video for 30 years. Throughout his career Frank’s enjoyed all aspects of photography, including sports, still-life, landscape, and architecture. He and his wife, Mandy, are the proud parents of Jack and Cate.

LAZAR BROWN OGLESBY

Lazar Brown Oglesby is the owner of Honey Catering and Dolan’s BBQ both located in Statesboro. Lazar attended Ogeechee Technical College where she earned a Culinary Arts degree. In 2012 Lazar followed a lifelong dream and opened Honey Catering and Café. She enjoys cooking Southern food with an adventurous twist! Lazar is known for her famous cheesecakes of which she has over 100 flavors. Lazar recently started the Honey Blog to share her recipes and stories. Visit her at Dolan’s & Honey’s new location on South Main Street.

Jaime Riggs is the Director of Marketing for East Georgia Regional Medical Center, where she works to share the story of how the hospital provides quality, compassionate healthcare close to home. Jaime graduated from GSU with a BS in Recreation, OTC with a CIS diploma and has an MBA in Organizational Leadership from Ashford University. In addition to her professional career, Jaime is active in service and ministry. She is past president of the Rotary Club, and serves as a volunteer and youth leader at Metter Methodist Church. Jaime is passionate about promoting the incredible work of healthcare providers and serving her community.

MELANIE SCHMERMUND

Melanie is Statesboro Magazine’s Senior Creative Director. Owner of Schmermund Design Studio, LLC, she is an experienced freelance graphic designer specializing in editorial design & branding. She is also a frequent contributing designer to Savannah Magazine. She holds a degree in Art from Auburn University and loves traveling & exploring the world, always looking for new places to visit. Her knowledge & passion are invaluable assets ensuring that each project she works on is of the highest quality.

BENJY THOMPSON

Benjy was born and raised in nearby Millen but spent much of his childhood visiting family in Brooklet. He is a Double Eagle graduate of Georgia Southern University and received his Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina. After spending 16 years in faculty and administration roles at Georgia Southern and Ogeechee Technical College, Benjy transitioned to economic development and his present role as CEO of the Development Authority of Bulloch County. Benjy and his wife Delaine have two children, Lucas and Sarah Kate. He is a longtime partner in the “Downright Brothers Band” with Frank Fortune and a member of the Dark Desert Highway Band.

Since 2005, John Waters has been the lead pastor of First Baptist Church Statesboro. Raised in a military family, he spent his childhood years in Tokyo, Japan, and Selma, Alabama. He earned a master’s degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctorate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. As a teenager, he once worked a weekend as a circus clown but now enjoys collecting fountain pens, reading across many genres, and visiting the great cathedrals of the world. His wife, Cynthia, is a retired elementary school teacher, and they have two married adult daughters and five grandchildren.

VIRGINIA ANNE FRANKLIN WATERS

Virginia Anne Franklin Waters is a fourth generation Bulloch Countian and loves all things about her hometown of Statesboro. She graduated from UGA and is a CPA. She spent her career in the hospitality industry. Her passions include entertaining friends at home and working in her gardens. Virginia Anne enjoys everything Gardening—planting seeds, arranging flowers, using raised beds, protecting native plants, propagating camellias and even pulling weeds. She has been a member of the Sprig-N-Dig Federated Garden Club since 1985. Virginia Anne has served on numerous philanthropic boards in our community and is currently the Executive Director of the Bulloch County Historical Society.

ABOUT THE COVER

Lee Herron, Steve Burke and Ted Walker are descendants of Patriots who fought at the Battle of Brier Creek in Screven County. Together with the SAR they reenact the skirmish and represent the sacrifice, teaching future generations about living in the 18th century & about pursuing freedom for everyone. Happy 250 Birthday America! Captured by award winning photographer Frank Fortune. #TheFortuneImage.

FRIDAYS –TUESDAYS @ 10:00 P.M.

STATESBORO MAIN STREET MARKET2GO

Order the season’s freshest local fruits, vegetables and homemade baked goods, preserves, jams, jellies, candies and relishes. You’ll also find locally sourced meat, seafood, spices, dairy and eggs. Home and garden items, honey and locally grown flower bouquets.

Shop online Friday – Tuesday at 10:00 p.m. @ https://statesboromarket2go.locallygrown.net. Pick-up on Thursday afternoons at the Statesboro Visitors Center, 222 South Main Street or in Sylvania at the Victory Garden General Store, 124 West Telephone Street.

SATURDAYS THROUGH

THANKSGIVING

STATESBORO MAIN STREET FARMERS MARKET

9:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.

FREE, FUN, FAMILY EVENT!

You’ll find the most delicious and fresh

food available at the Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market! Produce, meat, cheese, and eggs are brought to you straight from local family farms. While you’re here, browse unique, handcrafted items while enjoying fresh coffee or homemade lemonade and live music. Family fun for everyone! If you are interested in becoming a vendor at the Statesboro Farmers Market, please download an application here www.visitstatesboro.org/ farmers-market or stop by Visit Statesboro and pick up one in person. Email all potential applications to: marketmanager@ visitstatesboro.org or drop off at Visit Statesboro! See you Saturday at the Market!

SECOND SATURDAY

Visit Statesboro! & the Downtown Merchants Association invite you and your family to explore downtown Statesboro on Second Saturdays starting at the Main Street Farmers Market, where you will find the area’s freshest fruits & vegetables, homemade goods, artisans &craftsmen and food trucks! Take a stroll downtown, shop local boutiques, enjoy restaurants & cafes, and visit salons & service providers. Shop, stroll, sip & explore one of America’s Best Communities. www.VisitStatesboro.org.

JULY 3

LET FREEDOM SING! COMMUNITY CONCERT CELEBRATING 250 YEARS OF AMERICA 7:00 P.M.

FREE, FUN, FAMILY EVENT!

EMMA KELLY THEATER AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS Community members, local performers, and civic organizations will come together for a special community concert celebrating the 250th anniversary of America. The event will honor the nation’s history, culture, and spirit through music, storytelling, and song. This performance is produced entirely by members of the community. The program will include patriotic favorites, contemporary American music, tributes to military service members, and performances highlighting the cultural traditions that have shaped the nation over the past 250 years. The concert is free to the public and welcomes attendees of all ages. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy a $10 chicken plate dinner before the concert begins. Proceeds from the meal fundraiser will benefit the American Legion Dexter Allen Post 90 and support its ongoing service to local Veterans and the community. www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

JULY 4

HAPPY 250 BIRTHDAY AMERICA! THE 2026 STATESBORO FIRECRACKER FEST

5:00 P.M.

FIREWORKS AT 9:15 P.M.

FREE, FUN, FAMILY EVENT!

MILL CREEK REGIONAL PARK

1388 GA HWY 24 | STATESBORO

Join in the community celebration of Independence Day! Games will be open from 5:00 - 8:30 p.m. Inflatable games are available free of charge! There will be wet and dry ones so come prepared to get wet! It is summer in South Georgia so the kids will want to cool off! Tattoo Art and Games– Available free of charge to anyone interested! Firetruck–Available for kids to look and explore from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Frog Jumping & Greased Pole contests. Live music, full concessions and food vendors throughout the event.

JULY 11

16TH ANNUAL SUMMER JAM AT THE BLUE ROOM

7:00 P.M. (DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 P.M.)

$10/PERSON (EARLY BIRD GENERAL ADMISSION) THE BLUE ROOM

1830 CHANDLER ROAD STATESBORO

The 16th Annual Summer Jam will feature John Wood Band, Olympic Blvd, and more to be announced soon. The event will be hosted at The Blue Room on and will feature two stages! For tickets visit: www.bigtickets.com/events/ theblueroom/16th-summer-jam/

JULY 16

STATESBORO-BULLOCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS HOSTED BY FRANKLIN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP AT FRANKLIN TOYOTA

5:00 P.M. – 6:30 P.M. FREE CHAMBER MEMBER EVENT! 500 COMMERCE DRIVE | STATESBORO Join Chamber members for an afternoon of business networking, food and fellowship, hosted by Franklin Automotive Group. A monthly Chamber event! Join the StatesboroBulloch Chamber of Commerce by visiting www.Statesboro-Chamber.org or calling 912-764-6111.

JULY 17 - 19

THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER: THE MUSICAL

7:00 P.M. JULY 17 | 3:00 P.M. JULY 18 & 19

$15-$20/PERSON | EMMA KELLY THEATER AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is the irresistible story of a fourteen-year-old boy growing up in the heartland of America, based on the classic novel. Filled with foot-stomping, toe-tapping songs by Don Schlitz (“The Gambler”) and with a book by Ken Ludwig, this musical adventure is a tale of thrilling escapes, comedy and inspiration for the whole family. Set in 1840 Missouri, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is the tale of young Tom Sawyer and the never ending mischief of which he so often finds himself a part; whether it’s matching wits with Aunt Polly, tricking his friends into whitewashing a fence for him or narrowly escaping the clutches of a murderous villain. Along with his best friend, Huckleberry Finn, and his love interest, Becky Thatcher, the greatest Tom Sawyer exploits are plucked from the book and plopped onto the stage. Aside from having one of the most recognizable titles from literary history, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is a superb family-friendly show. For tickets visit www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

JULY 24

AN EVENING WITH GRAMMY & EMMY WINNER JOHN BERRY

7:30 P.M. | $33 - $38/PERSON

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Grammy and Emmy award-winning singersongwriter rose to stardom on the country charts of the 1990s with such mega hits as Your Love Amazes Me, Standing on the Edge of Goodbye, and She’s Taken a Shine. His annual Christmas tours brighten the holidays for thousands, as does his electrifying rendition of O’ Holy Night. During his starmaking decade, John placed 20 singles on the county charts, 6 of which went Top 5, with Your Love Amazes Me, scoring a #1 on the Billboard and Radio & Records Country Chart as well as Standing on the Edge of Goodbye and She’s Taken a Shine earning the #1 slot in Radio & Records. He has earned multiple Gold and Platinum records over the years. John was nominated for the ACM Top New Male Vocalist

in 1994, won a Grammy Award in 1996 for his participation in Amazing Grace: A Country Salute to Gospel Vol. 1, was nominated for another Grammy in 1995 for his smash hit Your Love Amazes Me and was nominated for the CMA Horizon Award and Top Male Vocalist Award in 1995. In 1997 he was nominated for Vocal Event of the Year for Long Haired Country Boy with Charlie Daniels and Hal Ketchum. In 2013, John was nominated for the Mainstream Country Male Artist by the ICM Awards. And thanks to the miracles of modern technology, he even sang a duet with the late, great Patsy Cline. For tickets visit www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

JULY 26

PITTMAN PARK UMC

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING

5:00 P.M. | FREE, FUN, FAMILY EVENT!

PITTMAN PARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

1102 FAIR ROAD | STATESBORO

Help us celebrate 70 years by going back in time! The sanctuary will fill with song for the Old Time Gospel Sing. Just like at the summertime camp meeting revivals and hymn sings of the past, we will enjoy lifting our voices together. The event will be led by the combined music ministry from Pittman Park’s contemporary and traditional services. Register on Facebook at the Old Time Gospel Sing.

JULY 31

13TH ANNUAL ROCKIN’ OUT ALZHEIMER’S CONCERT

THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO BON JOVI: WANTED LIVE

7:00 P.M. | $30/PERSON | THE BLUE ROOM 1830 CHANDLER ROAD | STATESBORO All proceeds will go to benefit the Rockin' Out Alzheimer's Disease Foundation.

The R.O.A.D Foundation proudly presents its 13th annual concert, featuring Wanted: A Bon Jovi Tribute! Tickets are on sale now! All proceeds support education and research towards the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Email The R.O.A.D. Foundation if you are interested in sponsoring or donating! Contact: Info@rockinoutalzheimers.org. For tickets visit: www.bigtickets.com/e/ theblueroom/13th-Rockin-Out-Alzheimers/ RSVP to Facebook event.

AUGUST 8

SEAN OF THE SOUTH

7:00 P.M.

$43 - $53/PERSON

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, humorist, multiinstrumentalist, and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Newsweek, Southern Living, Reader’s Digest, Garden and Gun, and his column appears weekly in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored eighteen books and over four thousand columns. He makes appearances on the Grand Ole Opry, his work has been featured on the Today Show, and he’s a really nice guy. For tickets visit www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

AUGUST 14

COMBAT 360 COMEDY TOUR: FIGHTING VETERAN SUICIDE, ONE LAUGH AT A TIME

7:30 P.M.

$23 - $28/PERSON

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Combat Zone 360 is a Veteran-led organization producing comedy shows by Veterans, for Veterans nationwide. Our mission is simple: laughter heals. Too many of our brothers and sisters return home carrying invisible wounds like PTSD and face silence or isolation. We’re changing that by bringing Veterans together through shared humor, camaraderie, and community. This tour is more than entertainment — it’s a movement to bring communities together, raise awareness, and support our fellow Veterans through the healing power of laughter. For tickets visit www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

AUGUST 22

SKYNFOLKS: THE AUTHENTIC LYNYRD SKYNYRD EXPERIENCE

7:30 P.M.

$33/PERSON

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

SkynFolks was formed as a result of some very devoted musicians who wanted to bring a little more to the game than what they’d seen of Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. They also knew how discriminating and tough real Skynyrd fans can be, so they set their performance bar high, really high. Brought together by luck, fate, devotion and drive, the members of SkynFolks pledged to create a band that would exactly reproduce the music of Lynyrd Skynyrd. No improvisation allowed - every part had to be played exactly like the original recordings. What emerged when they finished has never been done since the days of the original Skynyrd lineup. Totally authentic, accurate renditions of the music on the first 5 Lynyrd Skynyrd albums. It's been a labor of love for SkynFolks to provide the kind of highquality, authentic experience that honors the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd. SkynFolks provides a home for hardcore Skynyrd fans, and as those fans will attest. For tickets visit www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

Skynfolks:

The Authentic Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience

AUGUST 28

JAMIE KIMMETT LIVE!

7:00 P.M. | $23 - $28/PERSON

EMMA KELLY THEATER

AVERITT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Jamie Kimmett is a gifted singer-songwriter and speaker from Scotland. Known for his beautiful voice and rhythmic guitar style. Jamie is passionate about Jesus and sharing the gospel with audiences across the world. His debut EP “Prize Worth Fighting For” (Sony Music) has 50 million streams, two Top 40 songs and a single that was a global hit reaching Top 10 on the Billboard Christian Airplay Charts. With a reputation as a stellar live performer and communicator Jamie has toured extensively with acts such as Casting Crowns, Kari Jobe, Zach Williams, Cochran & Co and more. Jamie is known for his Scottish accent, sense of humor and boldness for the Gospel. He has a big heart for others and each live event is full of fun, authenticity, and clear bible teaching. Jamie’s passion for God is infectious and his guitar work, vocals & storytelling an experience like no other.

Jamie is a graduate of the Cornhill Bible College (Proclamation Trust) in London and has preached in prisons, open-air festivals and many church denominations. For tickets visit www.AverittCenterfortheArts.org.

SEND US YOUR EVENTS! Email your event, with one image, to editor@statesboromagazine.com for possible inclusion in next month's calendar.

PORTAL STUDENT

KATIELYN YATES

ELECTED TO GEORGIA FFA REGIONAL LEADERSHIP ROLE

A local high school student will help lead and promote agricultural youth events across the state for the next school year.

Katielyn Yates, a rising senior at Portal Middle High School, is the new Central Region Area 4 Vice President for the Georgia FFA Association. Elected to the role by her area FFA peers, Yates will represent members of Portal’s National FFA Organization chapter and all other high school chapter members

in Area 4. She will help lead large events and promote agriculture and FFA throughout Georgia during the upcoming school year.

As a candidate for the post, Katielyn and the other candidates had to complete a detailed application and submit a resume. They also had to take a test about FFA facts. During the area awards banquet in May, Yates campaigned and gave a speech to those in attendance. Students chosen as delegates from each school in the area then voted for their favorite leaders. The adult leaders picked the winners by combining the scores from the application, resume, test, and the final vote.

Georgia FFA divides its schools into North, Central, and South regions. Each of those three regions has two smaller sections called areas. Yates already has a lot of leadership experience in her hometown. She served as the Portal FFA Parliamentarian from

2024 to 2025. She was the chapter President from 2025 to 2026, and members elected her as president again for 2026-2027. Yates has also worked to earn multiple FFA degrees and honors: Greenhand Degree; Star Greenhand; Chapter Degree; and Chapter Star Farmer; and she placed fourth in the state in the Agricultural Education Career Development Event. Yates also holds a perfect 4.0 grade point average.

Outside of the classroom, Yates stays busy with her own farming project, which is called a supervised agricultural experience. She raises and shows Market and Breeding Lambs and Goats at shows all over Georgia. This year, she will care for three sheep and two goats. Yates also shows great talent in agricultural competitions, placing fourth in the state for the Agricultural Education career development event this year.

SEB HIGH STUDENT KAMRYN WILLIAMS TO LEAD GEORGIA FCCLA

STUDENT’S FACULTY ADVISOR ALSO ELECTED TO STATE FCCLA BOARD

A Southeast Bulloch High School student and her faculty advisor have both been elected to serve in top leadership positions for Georgia’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

Kamryn Williams, a rising junior at Southeast Bulloch, was elected State President of Georgia FCCLA. She is the daughter of Gerald Williams and Jordan Wright of Brooklet and the granddaughter of Elizabeth Williams, who chairs the Bulloch County Board of Education.

Charity Masters, an Early Childhood Education teacher at the school and the faculty advisor for its FCCLA chapter, has been elected as the Adviser Representative to the Georgia FCCLA Board of Directors. The announcements were made during the 2026 Georgia FCCLA State Leadership Conference which was held March 25-27 in Columbus at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center.

“This power-duo victory marks a significant milestone for Bulloch County

Schools,” said Bethany Gilliam, director of the school district’s Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education program. “Having one of our educators and one of our students both placed at the helm of one of the state’s largest Career and Technical Student Organizations is historic.

Masters will serve a three-year term as a vital liaison between local chapter advisers and the state association’s leadership. In this role, she will contribute to strategic decisions affecting thousands of educators and students across Georgia.

“Leadership is about impact, influence, and inspiration,” said Masters. “I am excited to represent Georgia FCCLA and help our members and advisers find their voice. To see that work also reflected in Kamryn’s success makes this moment even more rewarding.”

Kamryn was elected by her student peers from across the state to serve a one-year term as state president. Known for her tenacity and dynamic presence, Williams will lead the State

Executive Council and represent more than 25,000 student members. Her presidency will focus on advancing student engagement and strengthening the connections between local chapters and state-level opportunities.

“This is an incredible honor and opportunity,” Kamryn said. “I am excited to serve Georgia FCCLA and work alongside members to make a meaningful impact this year. Having Ms. Masters by my side at the state level is a testament to the support I’ve had at Southeast Bulloch.”

STATE SELECTS STATESBORO HIGH FOR TWO HONORS

State School Superintendent Richard Woods has named 316 Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools from 110 school districts for 2026, and Statesboro High School is among those receiving two honors.

“These schools demonstrate a strong dedication to academic excellence by challenging students and supporting them as they rise to meet high expectations,” said State School Superintendent Richard Woods in a statement issued by the Georgia Department of Education. “By expanding access to advanced coursework, they are helping ensure more Georgia students have the opportunity to graduate prepared for college, careers, and a successful future.”

Statesboro High received honors in two of the eight categories: AP STEM School and AP STEM Achievement School, which it also received in 2024 and 2025. The Georgia Department of Education selected winners for each category based on the number of AP courses a school offered and its students’ achievement in those courses and on their exams. Statesboro High offers 12 in-person AP courses, the most of any public or private high school in Bulloch County.

AP exams are administered by the College Board, which also administers the SAT. AP courses are one of several ways Georgia students can access college-level learning while in high school; students who earn a score of 3, 4, or 5 on an AP exam may receive college credit.

Georgia ranks in the top third nationally and exceeds the national average for the percentage of students passing AP exams, according to data released by the College Board earlier this year. Georgia continues to outperform most Southern states in AP success, with students scoring higher than their peers in Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

The Georgia Department of Education began recognizing AP Honor Schools in 2008.

TORIAN WHITE, PHD, IS THE SOLE FINALIST FOR BULLOCH COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

During a called special session on May 18, the Bulloch County Board of Education voted unanimously to name Torian White, PhD, as its sole finalist for superintendent of schools.

In accordance with state law, the Board announced White as its finalist at least 14 days before a final vote on a contract which is scheduled for June 11 during the Board’s regular session. Pending final approval, White would begin after the new fiscal year begins on July 1, 2026.

In White, the Board believes it has identified a finalist who closely matches both the qualifications for the position and the feedback it received from the community survey. Respondents most strongly valued principal experience as the most important background for a candidate, closely followed by teaching experience. This suggests a clear preference for leaders with firsthand knowledge of classroom instruction and school operations. Respondents also valued visible, relational, and student-centered leadership qualities. The highest priority identified was a visible leadership style accessible to the community, staff, and students, indicating a strong preference for leaders who are present, approachable, and engaged.

“Overall, the survey results pointed to the community’s clear preference for a highly visible, communicative leader who can balance strong academic leadership with sound financial management while guiding improvement and innovation,” said Elizabeth Williams, the Board’s chairperson. “The responses reflected a desire for a leader who is inclusive, locally aware, attentive to staff and student needs, and mindful of the broader community context in which the school system operates.”

As a finalist, White is “locally aware.” His children attended school in the district. He previously served as a principal in Bulloch County and has also served as an adjunct faculty member for Georgia Southern University’s Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, as well as on other College of Education committees over the past eight years.

“Having lived, worshipped, and led in Bulloch County for five years, I understand its values and its people - insight that will be valuable as the district enters its next strategic planning cycle,” White said in a letter to

Williams as part of his application. “With that foundation in both the community and the district, I am prepared to return with broadened experience, a strategic perspective, and the systems-level leadership necessary to advance the Board’s key priorities.”

This is the second time that a nationwide search for public school leadership in Bulloch County has led to White. He previously served as the principal of Southeast Bulloch Middle School from 2014 to 2019, before transferring to become the principal of his alma mater, South Effingham High School, where he currently serves. When he was hired for the SEBMS principal role, there were 35 applicants from across the United States.

White is a veteran educator with 23 years of experience, 14 of which were as a middle and high school administrator, assistant principal and principal. He understands the school district’s strengths and opportunities for improvement. He has a proven record of leading administrative teams, prioritizing clear communication, being visible, and providing prompt support.

“With a strong college and university presence, proximity to two military bases, and continued business and industry growth, Bulloch County offers rich opportunities for students to graduate ready to be employed, enlisted, or enrolled in postsecondary education,” White added in his application.

White is a native of Effingham County. He earned a doctorate in philosophy in curriculum and instruction from Mercer University in 2014. He also holds a specialist degree in leadership from Cambridge College and a master’s degree in education from Troy University. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in education, specializing in teaching mathematics, from the University of Georgia. White would succeed Charles Wilson, who retired on March 31, 2026, after 30 years of service, 14 of which were as Bulloch Couty superintendent of schools.

GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY JOINS THE GEORGIA RESEARCH ALLIANCE

Georgia Southern University has been named a member of the Georgia Research Alliance (GRA), joining a group of leading research universities including the University of Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology and Georgia State University.

“This is an ideal moment for Georgia Southern to join GRA,” said Georgia Southern University Kyle Marrero. “Our institutional momentum aligns closely with GRA’s mission to expand Georgia’s research capacity and economic competitiveness. As we continue our trajectory toward becoming a nationally recognized public impact research university, we are committed to advancing innovation, developing talent and addressing the critical needs of Southeast Georgia through research that strengthens communities, drives economic development and improves quality of life across the region.”

The GRA is a nonprofit, public-private partnership affiliated with the University System of Georgia and Georgia’s Department of Economic Development. Founded in 1990, the organization aims to drive research impact and entrepreneurship across the state.

In fiscal year 2025, the alliance secured more than $1 billion in external public-private funding for research. That funding helped create more than 3,000 new jobs in laboratories and start-ups, according to their website.

Georgia Southern’s admission is a milestone for its growing research enterprise.

In recent years, multiple faculty members have been awarded Fulbright Scholarships, and one was named a fellow in the National Academy of Inventors.

Georgia Southern has experienced record growth and momentum in recent years, with projected FY 2026 annual research expenditures surpassing $56 million. This trajectory puts the University on track to achieve Carnegie R1 classification in the upcoming review cycle. Carnegie R1 is the nation’s highest designation for doctoral research universities.

Georgia Southern has developed research strengths in fields like environmental science, early childhood education and advanced manufacturing and logistics. These strengths have directly benefited Georgia and the region, while showing potential to do the same on a national scale and global scale. The GRA can provide resources to help the University continue its current efforts and fulfill that potential.

Membership privileges include the

Ogeechee

Technical College’s two-person team of Andrew Mitchell and Austin

“AJ” Redman, won Gold in the Cybersecurity competition held at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta on June 1-5, 2026.

“From day one, Andrew and AJ have impressed me with their passion for cybersecurity, their drive to succeed, and their

commitment to excellence,” said Terry Hand, Cybersecurity Instructor. “They are both incredible individuals and I am honored to have been their instructor.”

The annual SkillsUSA conference was a showcase of career and technical education where more than 6,800 outstanding career and technical education students, all state contest winners, competed hands-on in 115 different trade, technical and leadership categories. All contests are run with the help of industry, trade associations and labor organizations, testing competencies set by industry for entry-level workers.

The Cybersecurity team from OTC has won GOLD at the national level twice in the last four years and brought home a silver medal in 2024.

ability to recruit researchers from the GRA’s Academy of Scholars. In a show of support, the Georgia General Assembly has appropriated the funds for Georgia Southern’s inauural Eminent Scholar, the top level of talent within the Academy.

As members of GRA, Georgia Southern also qualifies to join the GRA Core Exchange, a nationally unique program that allows researchers from any member university to access research equipment and facilities at fellow member institutions without paying external administrative fees.

David C. Weindorf, Ph.D., vice president for research and economic development, says the combination of these factors makes it an ideal time for Georgia Southern to join.

“We are excited to bring our distinct perspective to the GRA,” Weindorf said. “I’m grateful for their support of our vision, and I can’t wait to deepen our partnership with fellow members, as we continue to pursue research that will improve our communities and our world.”

“Amazing things are happening in the world of Cybersecurity here at OTC,” said Hand. “To be national champions two out of the last four years proves that we have one of the best programs in the country.”

As a team of two, the competition is open to active SkillsUSA members enrolled in programs with Cybersecurity, Information Security, or Systems and Networking Security Architecture. Students were tested on the elements of the NIST Publication 800-181 Cybersecurity Workforce Framework categories, including Securely Provision, Operate and Maintain, and Protect and Defend.

For more information about the Cybersecurity program at Ogeechee Tech, visit ogeecheetech.edu/cyber.

WRITTEN

BY

JENNY STARLING FOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

FRANK FORTUNE

THE PINE FOREST IS QUIET TODAY.

Towering pines cast long shadows across the sandy soil as Brier Creek winds through the cypress swamp before emptying into the Savannah River. Deer move through the undergrowth. Birds fill the silence. To an unknowing visitor, it’s like any other corner of rural Georgia.

Yet beneath those pines lies one of the most significant Revolutionary War battlefields in the South.

On March 3, 1779, nearly 250 years ago, British forces launched a surprise attack on Patriot troops camped along Brier Creek after destroying Miller’s Bridge during their retreat from Augusta. The devastating defeat halted Patriot momentum, secured Georgia for the British Crown and prolonged the Revolutionary War in the South by at least another year. More than 150 Patriots were killed, many in a brutal bayonet massacre after the fighting ended. Others drowned trying to escape across the Savannah River. Their graves remain somewhere beneath the pine forest floor.

Every spring, the quiet gives way to the boom of cannons, the crack of muskets and the voices of men dressed exactly as soldiers would have appeared nearly two and a half centuries ago.

To some, they are reenactors.

To Richard “Lee” Herron, Steve Burke, and Ted Walker, they are descendants of the Patriots who fought at Brier Creek and caretakers of America’s early history.

Together, the three men have devoted years to preserving the battlefield, educating the public, and ensuring that one of Georgia’s most important Revolutionary War sites is never forgotten.

The annual March reenactment is only part of their mission.

Herron, president of the Brier Creek Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, has spent years working alongside others, including former U.S. Congressman Max Burns, to gain state and national recognition for the battlefield. Those efforts helped lead to archaeological investigations, preservation work and recognition of the 2,686-acre battlefield within the Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Area.

Ground-penetrating radar and LiDAR technology have helped identify troop positions, battlefield features and possible burial locations without disturbing the site. Patriot graves have been located, but their exact locations remain undisclosed until they can be properly protected and memorialized. Future archaeological work may even make DNA identification possible, allowing more descendants to be connected with the soldiers

who fought there nearly 250 years ago.

“I had an ancestor in the Brier Creek battle,” Herron said. “Looking over the river, it brings home to me the struggles they went through trying to gain freedom from England. It was a special place to be.”

Herron doesn’t simply portray an eighteenth-century frontiersman. Wearing the distinctive animal skins and skunk cap of the elite Skunk Brigade, he helps visitors understand how early Americans adapted to life on the frontier.

“Native Americans already used skins for hats and things,” he explained. “The pioneers adopted some of that culture. There weren’t a lot of places to buy clothing in the backwoods, so people made their own. They made hats to keep their heads warm.”

He hopes every visitor leaves with a better appreciation for the sacrifices that created the nation.

Steve Burke shares that same passion.

A retired Georgia Power Company and Planters Electric Membership Cooperative employee from Garfield, Burke has participated in historical reenactments for 35 years, including 26 years portraying Revolutionary War soldiers. A member of the Wiregrass Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, he serves as a Continental artillery officer during demonstrations and has spent five years as chapter president.

His connection to Brier Creek is deeply personal.

One of his ancestors, Captain James Lambert, fought in the battle and escaped by

swimming the Savannah River with fourteen fellow soldiers after the Patriot lines collapsed. Lambert was fighting in what was then his home county.

“Because of the historical significance,” Burke said when asked why he became a reenactor. “I’m a practicing survivalist who was recruited to participate in the Brier Creek enactment and other events throughout the state.”

That background as a survivalist gives Burke unusual insight into what Revolutionary soldiers actually endured.

Long before modern medicine, disease claimed more lives than enemy fire.

“Up until 1938, when penicillin was invented, most war casualties came from illnesses or disease,” Burke said. “That killed far more soldiers than bullets.”

He explains how soldiers carried salted pork or beef, drinking water, bedrolls, oats for horses and military equipment that included muskets, swords, pistols, powder horns, lead balls and the tools needed to cast ammunition in camp. They often carried molasses in their water kegs, a practice that sometimes contributed to deadly illness. Animal skins became valuable trade goods with Creek Indians who supported the Patriot cause. The Cherokee largely sided with the British, another complicated chapter of Southern history that Burke believes deserves honest discussion.

“I’m a survivalist,” Burke said. “I understand the way those soldiers had to live and fight.”

His equipment reflects that commitment

Native Americans

already used skins for hats and things. The pioneers adopted some of that culture. There weren’t a lot of places to buy clothing in the backwoods, so people made their own. They made hats to keep their heads warm.”

- RICHARD “LEE” HERRON

For me it’s important to bring attention to our history. We need to look at it, learn from it, and understand it. The causes and effects. How people were affected.”

- TED WALKER

to authenticity. Burke makes many of his own period implements using natural materials such as deer sinew. Hanging from his uniform is a spent friction primer, evidence that he has fired one of the group’s full-scale reproduction cannons.

Those cannons are another labor of love.

Herron and Burke, along with fellow reenactors, helped build the artillery pieces used during demonstrations. One cannon was constructed in a friend’s cabinet shop after being cast by Hern Iron Works in Idaho as a full-scale reproduction of a three-pound Verbruggen cannon. Today the group owns nine working cannons used during living history events across the Southeast.

This year alone, the Semiquincentennial has them traveling almost every weekend. During Independence Day celebrations, they’ll fire eight or nine cannons at Truist Park before an Atlanta Braves game, sharing Revolutionary history with thousands of baseball fans.

For Ted Walker, education is the reward.

A Vietnam veteran who served as an Air Force aircraft mechanic and recruiter, Walker portrays a Patriot militiaman wearing a red vest, tricorn hat, powder pouch, hatchet, knife, canteen and other equipment representative of an eighteenth-century soldier. He belongs to the Wiregrass, Brier Creek and Little River chapters of the Sons of the American Revolution and previously served as president of the South Carolina Society of the SAR.

When schoolchildren visit the encampments, Walker doesn’t begin with battles. He begins with everyday life.

He shows them period toys, explains how soldiers cooked, demonstrates military equipment and invites them to experience history with their own hands.

“I enjoy sharing life in the eighteenth century with students most,” he said.

Walker’s own family history reaches back to Revolutionary preacher Thomas Maxwell, who established 13 Baptist churches along Georgia’s Cherokee frontier after moving south from Virginia. Maxwell was once jailed for preaching the Baptist faith before being defended by Patrick Henry. Henry’s son later married Maxwell’s daughter, intertwining two remarkable Revolutionary families.

“For me this is personal,” Walker said. “I have skin in the game.”

That personal connection extends beyond the Revolutionary War. His father served as a Fleet Marine during the battles of Guadalcanal and Okinawa. Walker himself served during the Vietnam War. Today he remains active with the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Sons of Confederate Veterans, historical societies and the Pilgrims Society.

“For me it’s important to bring attention to our history,” he said. “We need to look at it, learn from it, and understand it. The causes and effects. How people were affected.”

That shared commitment unites

all three men.

Each spring they pitch canvas tents beneath the pines. They cook, camp and live as eighteenth-century soldiers did. Their uniforms are hand sewn. Their weapons are historically accurate. Their demonstrations are carefully researched. They don’t simply wear costumes. They become living interpreters of a pivotal moment in American history.

Their work extends far beyond the battlefield.

The Brier Creek Chapter partners with neighboring Sons of the American Revolution chapters, the Daughters of the American Revolution and local schools to present educational programs, memorial services, color guard ceremonies and living history events throughout the region. Their long-term vision includes a visitor center, museum and walking trail that will help future generations understand why this battlefield mattered and why it still does.

The Battle of Brier Creek may have ended in defeat for the Patriots, but nearly 250 years later, its story continues to inspire those determined to preserve it.

As cannon smoke drifts once more through the pine trees each spring, Herron, Burke and Walker remind visitors that history isn’t confined to books or museums.

The blood of their Patriot ancestors still runs through their veins.

So sometimes, history puts on a uniform, shoulders a musket, and walks back onto the battlefield so the rest of us never forget. S

1776-2026

Bulloch County was St. Philip Parish before and during the Revolution-1765-1783. is list of Soldiers who fought in the Continental Army was compiled from records of the Daughters of the American Revolution and other veri ed documents and it is not to be considered all-inclusive. e regiment is indicated where known. ese soldiers settled in Bulloch County. Most of them relocated here after the war and many received land grants.

TIME LINE OF

the American Revolution

March 22, 1765

THE STAMP ACT

March 5, 1770

THE BOSTON MASSACRE

December 16, 1773 THE BOSTON TEA PARTY April 19, 1775

THE BATTLES OF LEXINGTON AND CONCORD July 4, 1776

SECOND CONTINENTAL CONGRESS ADOPTS THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE September & October 1777

BATTLES OF SARATOGA— FRANCE BECOMES A FORMAL ALLY September & October 1781

SIEGE OF YORKTOWN AND THE BRITISH SURRENDER

LOCAL SOLDIERS WHO FOUGHT IN THE CONTINENTAL ARMY

Daniel Alderman NC

David Alderman NC

Joseph Anderson SC

Nicholas Ancianx

French Army, Friend of Lafayette, Founded Arcola

Clifton Bowen NC

William Brannen NC

Nathaniel Miles Cannon SC

William Henry Cone NC

William Denmark NC

John Everett (Evritt) NC

John Groover (Gruber) GA

Joshua Hodges NC

John Holloway NC

William Holloway NC

James Jernigan NC

Bridger Jones NC

James Jones GA

Lewis Lanier NC

David Lee SC

Charles McCall SC

John Mikell, Jr. SC

William Monk GA

John Neville GA/SC

John Shears Olliff NC

Henry Parrish NC

Benjamin Richardson

Thomas Rigdon SC

John Roberts GA

William Sheffield GA

John Stanford GA

Hustus Studstill GA

John Tillman NC

John Tomlinson SC

Frederick Williams NC

James Williams GA

Seth Williams GA

Samuel Williams SC

Charles Zetterower (Zittrauer) Opposed the Tories September 3, 1783

TREATY OF PARIS RECOGNIZES THE 13 COLONIES AS A SOVEREIGN NATION.

William Wise GA/SC

Before a child learns anything, they learn to wonder. They ask questions. Why? What if? Their imagination is so active.

Keep Chasing

URING THE UNCERTAINTY OF COVID, BRANDI PEROSSA FOUND HERSELF RETURNING to a dream she had carried for years. She wanted to write children’s books.

Like many aspiring authors, she imagined the traditional path. Write the manuscript. Find a publisher. Place the finished book into the hands of young readers. For two to three years, she worked on developing her story, convinced the book itself was the destination. What she discovered was that the book was only the beginning.

Today, Perossa is preparing to launch her first children’s picture book series featuring Bebe and Bailey, a curious little girl and her

rescue puppy. Along the way, that original dream has grown into something larger than she ever imagined: a mission to help families reconnect through everyday moments and a growing online community known as Magic Minutes Club.

The journey from manuscript to mission wasn’t always clear.

“There was a learning curve,” said Perossa. “I needed a brand, a social media platform, and a way to get the book into the hands of the people I wanted to reach.”

The turning point came through an unexpected connection.

Perossa met Tracey Shell through her mother. Shell had spent 25 years as a brand

manager with the well-known Atlanta communications firm Jackson Spalding before launching her own public relations and marketing company. Perossa became her first client. Looking back, she sees the meeting as one of several moments that arrived at exactly the right time.

“I believe all great things come from God,” she said. “Looking back, none of this journey would have been possible without the people put in my path.”

As the two women began discussing the project, Shell posed a question that would ultimately shape everything that followed.

“What is the heart of the book?”

Parents have plenty to do and are often exhausted, Magic Minutes gives them a tool to make the small moments with their children matter.

The answer required Perossa to think beyond publication.

She realized her goal was never simply to tell a story. She wanted to encourage parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers to connect more intentionally with children. The book was important, but the deeper purpose was creating opportunities for meaningful interaction.

That realization led Perossa to spend time reflecting on what mattered most to her.

She identified two guiding principles. The first was encouraging families. The second was helping people discover that real connection between parents and children can happen through ordinary moments.

Those ideas became the foundation for Magic Minutes Club.

Families who join the free online community receive weekly activities designed to encourage conversation, imagination, and interaction. The activities are intentionally brief and flexible because Perossa understands the reality of modern family life. Parents are busy. Schedules are full. Meaningful connection often gets pushed aside by the demands of the day.

“Parents have plenty to do and are often exhausted,” said Perossa. “Magic Minutes gives them a tool to make the small moments with their children matter.”

The activities themselves are simple by design. One encourages conversation. Another sparks imagination. One even helps families slow down and reset together. Rather than adding pressure, Perossa hopes they create opportunities for genuine interaction.

“It’s not complicated, or even perfect,” she said. “Definitely not something to be added to the to-do list.”

For Perossa, the work is about something deeper than activities.

It is about wonder.

Her personal motto is “Keep Chasing Wonder,” a phrase that appears throughout her work and serves as the guiding philosophy behind both Magic Minutes Club and the Bebe and Bailey books.

She believes children begin learning long before they memorize facts or master academic skills. They learn through curiosity. They ask questions adults may never think to ask. They imagine possibilities without worrying whether they are practical. They approach the world with an openness that often fades as they grow older.

Perossa wants to preserve that.

“Before a child learns anything, they learn to wonder,” she said. “They ask questions. Why? What if? Their imagination is so active.”

That belief also shapes the way she thinks about education.

“The goal of education isn’t simply to raise kids who know the answers,” said Perossa. “I want kids to keep asking all the great questions.”

It is a perspective that feels especially relevant in a world filled with screens, distractions, and constant noise. Research shows that with technology comes isolation, closing children off to the natural world.

“God created us to connect with each other,” she said. “We are losing that during the digital age. I want us to remember that through one small act, we can bring positive change to someone else.”

This fall, readers will finally meet the characters who started it all.

Perossa’s upcoming picture book series includes Bebe & Bailey Believe, Bebe & Bailey Belong, and Bebe & Bailey Are Brave. The stories follow a young girl and her rescue puppy as they navigate challenges, build friendships, and discover important truths about themselves and the world around them.

In the first adventure, Bebe and Bailey set out to help a loved one find a missing bracelet. Along the way, they discover that challenges

are easier to face with support from others. The story introduces themes of perseverance, teamwork, and selfconfidence, while encouraging children to embrace their own sense of possibility. Those themes mirror the values Perossa hopes children carry into everyday life.

Believing in themselves.

Knowing they belong.

Finding the courage to be brave.

The books and the activities may take different forms, but they share the same purpose.

“Ultimately, it’s about small connections,” said Perossa. “When families connect, families thrive, kids thrive and everyone is reunified.”

The response has already been encouraging. Perossa has been invited to share advance readings of Bebe & Bailey Belong at Statesboro First United Methodist Church Preschool, Lake Oconee Church, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Each visit gives her another opportunity to share the message that first inspired her to begin writing years ago.

Throughout the process, faith has remained at the center of her journey. She often returns to Hebrews 10:35-36, “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”

For Perossa, with God’s timing, the dream that began with a manuscript is unfolding exactly as it should.

Ultimately, it’s about small connections. When families connect, families thrive, kids thrive and everyone is reunified.

“I am willing to walk through any door that God opens for me,” she said.

The goal was never simply to publish a children’s book.

It was to help children hold onto the curiosity that makes them ask “Why?” and “What if?” long before anyone teaches them the answers. Afterall, wonder is not something children outgrow. And imagination is only the beginning.

Whether through a story about a little girl and her rescue puppy or a conversation shared around the dinner table, Perossa hopes families discover that meaningful moments don’t have to be elaborate to matter.

Sometimes all it takes is a little time, an imagination set free, and a willingness to keep chasing wonder. S

AT 13 YEARS OLD, ROBERT TANNER HAD ONE DREAM.

“I wanted to be a major league baseball player,” he said. “That was my only dream.”

Like many childhood dreams, that one faded when the Atlanta Braves didn’t call. What replaced it wasn’t a carefully mapped career plan.

“I had no plans for anything in my life,” Robert said. “When that didn’t happen, I just worked hard at whatever opportunity was available to me. It has worked out okay for me.”

For Robert Tanner, opportunity has always come wrapped in relationships. One friendship led to a career. Another introduced him to his wife. A conversation sparked a business idea. A trusted banker financed a restaurant. A church Sunday school class produced lifelong friendships. Those relationships became the foundation for a remarkable 55-year career in real estate, entrepreneurship and community leadership that helped shape the Statesboro generations know today.

Long before he became one of Statesboro’s best-known Realtors, Robert was simply a little boy growing up across from Georgia Southern.

His family moved into a white house on U.S. Highway 301 South across from the main entrance to Georgia Southern College when he was just nine months old. Robert lived in the same house with his parents until graduating from college. His mother, Mattie Barlow Tanner, (who later lived to be 102 years old), worked for the Welfare Department.

“She dropped me off at school in the morning,” Robert recalled. “And I walked home or rode in Tater Rooker’s mule wagon.”

He attended Statesboro Elementary School on West Grady Street, where the Statesboro Police Department now stands. After school, like so many children of his generation, he headed to the StatesboroBulloch County Recreation Department.

The Recreation Department became one of the first places that helped shape Robert’s life. At just five years old, he became the first child to register there when it opened on April 1, 1948. Years later he returned as an employee, working there through high school and college until 1970. During those years he watched a pavilion locals affectionately called the “Pav-a-lon” become the gathering place for teenagers. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, a local radio station played music for dancing. Friday

nights belonged to a local band - the Cyclones.

The Recreation Department also introduced Robert to Max Lockwood, who would later play another role in his life when Robert returned home looking for work.

Sports remained a constant.

Robert earned a second college degree in Public Recreation. He later coached baseball at Statesboro High School. Although Georgia Southern is now known for football, Robert remembers when basketball was the school’s biggest sport. Even today, golf with longtime friends remains one of his favorite pastimes. Ask him about dessert afterward and he’ll quickly answer, “Lemon custard ice cream.”

Growing up also meant learning the value of hard work.

His father owned a trucking company that hauled just about anything.

“Daddy would haul anything,” Robert said. “Peanuts to Alabama; watermelons.”

His father also loaded students, professors and administrators onto trucks for hayrides to Magnolia Springs every fall. In the summer, he’d haul truckloads of watermelons to Georgia Southern.

Robert drove one of those trucks himself one summer hauling fertilizer for Eddie Rushing’s father. He worked four years at a service station while attending Georgia Southern. He sold the Atlanta Journal and Atlanta Constitution in the college dining hall with a friend. Of every job he ever held, however, one remained his favorite.

“Working tobacco,” he said without hesitation. “I worked hard with those guys and loved it.”

His family cooked in an outdoor kitchen behind their home from 1954 until 1965, gathering friends around for chicken or fish fries on Friday and Saturday nights.

Those experiences grounded him long before he ever entered a boardroom or a closing attorney’s office.

After graduating from Georgia Southern in 1965 with a business degree, Robert accepted a position with General Electric in Atlanta before joining Crawford & Company as an insurance adjuster.

“I transferred four times within two weeks,” he laughed. “I was in Toledo, Ohio, when I decided to come home to Statesboro.”

Coming home didn’t immediately come with a career.

“In 1971, I had four vocations that hadn’t worked out for me,” Robert remembered. “I parked my car at First Baptist Church

and walked up and down the Main Streets knocking on doors looking for a job.”

One of those doors belonged to Joe Johnston.

Johnston hired Robert to manage the real estate side of Johnston Insurance & Real Estate.

“I was the first person in Statesboro whose entire job was real estate,” Robert said.

The friendship between the two men became one of the defining relationships of Robert’s life.

“Joe told me that I would only get paid when I sold something,” Robert said. “He and I became great friends.”

Real estate looked much different in those days. There was no multiple listing service. Many contractors sold homes themselves. Every Monday Robert climbed into his car and drove around Bulloch County looking for houses under construction, commercial projects and properties coming on the market. Builders like Alvin Rocker became part of the growing network of relationships that fueled his business.

He eventually purchased a house on South Main Street and converted it into offices. A travel agency occupied the front while Tanner Realty operated in the back. At one time, Tanner Realty became the largest real estate company in Statesboro. In 1984, he opened what was then the smallest Coldwell Banker office in the United States. In 2005, he handed the keys to Jack Conner, who continued operating the company as Caldwell Banker Tanner Realty before eventually renaming it to Caldwell Banker Conner Realty, when the company updated their logo.

“I’ve been in real estate for 55 years,” Robert said. “Most of my success comes from opportunity, not planning.”

Opportunity had a way of finding Robert because he never stopped paying attention.

One evening he stopped by Franklin’s Restaurant hoping to get something to eat. It was closed.

“I wanted something to eat late at night,” Robert said. “I decided then that Statesboro needed a 24-hour restaurant.”

That simple observation became Statesboro’s first Huddle House franchise on South Main Street in 1983. Three more followed, including locations in Rincon, Springfield and across from Paulson Stadium. At one point, the Rincon restaurant became the highest-producing Huddle House in the entire chain.

Before opening that first restaurant, Robert visited First Bulloch Bank CEO Red Bell seeking financing.

“Red said, ‘What do you know about restaurants?’ I said, ‘Nothing.’”

He laughed then, just as he does now.

Robert finally got the financing and the risk paid off.

But Robert’s entrepreneurial spirit reached far beyond restaurants.

He opened American Fast Photo in College Plaza before digital cameras changed the photography business. He brought Heel Sew Quick to Statesboro. He opened a Meineke franchise. He operated a construction company. He and Martha Ann briefly owned a Hallmark store before selling it to former Mayor Bill Hatcher, who relocated to the Statesboro Mall. Along the way he facilitated the purchase of land on U.S. Highway 301 South for the J.C. Lewis Ford dealership.

“I’m not a salesman,” Robert said. “I’m more of a facilitator. I bring the right people together to make something happen.”

That philosophy defined far more than his business career.

Relationships also shaped his personal life.

Marcus Seligman, one of Robert’s closest friends since the eighth grade, owned Tilly’s women’s boutique. When Martha Ann established an account there, Marcus decided the two should meet.

He arranged a blind date.

The rest is family history.

“I got married late at age 41 because I could never find anyone I wanted to marry, who wanted to marry me,” Robert joked.

Martha Ann brought two children into the marriage. Today son Kevin Palmer is a principal architect with DPR Architecture. Daughter Shelley Harris serves as Facility Compliance & Privacy Officer and Health Information Management Director at East Georgia Regional Medical Center. Robert and Martha Ann now enjoy four grandchildren pursuing careers in education, architecture and construction management while the youngest attends Southeast Bulloch High School.

Throughout every chapter, friendships remained one of Robert’s greatest blessings.

He remembers the late Roy and Deborah Thompson with affection. He still plays golf with Robby Turner, who taught the First Baptist Sunday School class they attended together. Wallace Wright has been his best friend for more than 40 years. Jimmy Wiggins and Perry Smith remain regular golfing companions.

Community service naturally followed. Robert spent 45 years in Rotary. He was

a Jaycee until aging out as what members jokingly call an “exhausted rooster.” He became a charter member of the Lions Club. He coached baseball. He supported Georgia Southern athletics. Through business, civic organizations and friendships, he quietly helped connect people with opportunities that benefited the entire community.

Today Robert is officially retired. He still holds his real estate license, although he admits he’ll probably let it expire when continuing education becomes necessary.

Appropriately, his final closing took place at 10 o’clock on the very morning of this afternoon interview. His first closing had been handled decades earlier by attorney Avant Edenfield, who later became a Southern Georgia District federal judge. His last closing was handled by attorney Marc Bruce.

Between those two closings stretches a remarkable life built one relationship at a time.

The businesses he opened, the land he helped develop and the organizations he served all tell part of Robert Tanner’s story. The friendships he cultivated tell the rest.

Taken together, they reveal the legacy of a man who spent 55 years building far more than a career.

He built a community. S

Robert Tanner Through the Years

A FEW OF THE HATS HE’S WORN

First child to register at the Statesboro-Bulloch County

Recreation Department (1948)

Recreation Department employee

Georgia Southern graduate, twice

General Electric employee

Insurance adjuster

Real estate broker

Founder of Tanner Realty

Coldwell Banker broker

Huddle House franchise owner

American Fast Photo owner

Hallmark store co-owner

Heel Sew Quick franchise owner

Construction company owner

Licensed stock broker

Statesboro High School baseball coach

Rotary member for 45 years

Jaycee Exhausted Rooster

Charter member of the Lions Club

Lifetime Golfer

Husband

Stepfather

Grandfather

# 1 Top Producing Agency

IN BULLOCH COUNTY FOR OVER 20 YEARS.

OTC Takes Center Stage on TheCollegeTour

On a typical summer day in southeast Georgia, an Orlandobased film crew unloaded cameras and lighting equipment across Ogeechee Technical College’s campus, preparing to capture a week of footage for OTC’s episode of The College Tour. Less than a year later, that footage is now available to a global audience.

Now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, The College Tour was created by host and executive producer Alex Boylan after discovering that many students and families could not afford to travel and visit colleges across the country. Now in its 16th season, the nationally recognized series gives prospective students an authentic look at colleges and universities through the voices and experiences of their students.

OTC became just the second technical college in the nation to be featured on the series. According to the production crew, the week included several firsts for the show—from learning the ins and outs of Funeral Service Education to filming raccoon releases and even a few games of pickleball. Boylan, who has visited hundreds of colleges and universities through

the series, said OTC stood out for its strong sense of purpose. “Ogeechee Tech offers the perfect blend of opportunity and value. You can really feel how everyone — faculty, staff, and students — is working together toward the same goal: helping students launch successful careers in the local workforce,” said Alex Boylan, host of The College Tour.

“You can really feel how everyone — faculty, staff, and students —is working together towards the same goal: helping students launch successful careers in the local workforce.” - Alex Boylan, TCT Show Host

Filmed during the first week of the fall semester, the episode follows students from a variety of academic programs as they share their personal journeys, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing OTC. Their stories showcase the hands-on training, supportive faculty, and welcoming campus environment that define the OTC experience.

OTC celebrated the launch of the episode with a premiere event at the historic Emma Kelly Theater in downtown Statesboro before the episode debuted globally on Amazon Prime Video on June 16.

STREAMING NOW

“In my 15 years in higher education marketing, this is one of the most meaningful projects I’ve had the opportunity to be part of,” said Sean Payne, Executive Director for Public Relations and Marketing at OTC. “We have incredible students at this college, and this episode allows them to tell their stories in their own words. It’s a powerful reminder of what determination, hard work, and opportunity can achieve.”

SHINING BRIGHT

Like a Diamond

At Ogeechee Technical College (OTC), the true brilliance of technical education is reflected in its people, whose achievements shine like diamonds in distinction across both internal and external communities. This year, OTC proudly celebrates excellence by honoring two exceptional groups of leaders: the dedicated faculty and staff members recognized internally by their peers for advancing the college’s mission, and the outstanding alumni who have leveraged their OTC credentials to make a profound impact locally and nationwide. Together, these award recipients embody the ultimate success attainable through Ogeechee Tech, proving that whether on campus or out in the workforce, OTC diamonds consistently shine bright.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

SarahSingletary|Echocardiography ~2012

A dual graduate of Georgia Southern University and Ogeechee Technical College (OTC), Sarah completed OTC’s Echocardiography Program in 2012. Following a distinguished decade-long clinical career in cardiovascular imaging and mentorship, she returned to OTC in 2024 as an Echocardiography Instructor. Her rigorous, hands-on instruction led her students to a 100% first-time pass rate on national registry exams.

INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR

MichaelTwisdale

BusinessTechnologyInstructor

Business Technology Instructor Michael Twisdale was named Ogeechee Technical College’s 2026 Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction recipient. Drawing from 23 years of industry experience, Twisdale was honored for his dedication to mentoring adult learners and making complex business concepts accessible and engaging.

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI

TiffanyUnderwood|Esthetician~2022

After earning a biology degree from Georgia Southern University, Tiffany studied esthetics at Ogeechee Technical College (OTC), nominated for Student of the Year in 2022. She now owns SkinCo, a successful practice that earned her national honors recognition. Despite battling Hairy Cell Leukemia during her training, she persevered and later founded Tiff Tiff’s Chemo Bags, a nonprofit supporting cancer patients nationwide.

LEADERSHIP AWARD

MichelleFields

AssistantDirectorforAdmissions

The Leadership Award honors an exceptional employee who drives Ogeechee Technical College’s mission through dedication, professionalism, and compassion. As a tireless worker, Michelle steps in during staffing shortages and challenges without hesitation. Thoughtful and giving, she balances hard work with a commitment to well-being, frequently reminding colleagues to recharge and practice self-care.

2026 GOAL WINNER

CarolineGraham ASNGraduate

Caroline Graham, an Associate of Science in Nursing graduate at Ogeechee Technical College, has been named the 2026 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner. Celebrating five years of sobriety, Graham credits the college’s supportive environment and flexible schedule with helping her overcome past addiction and homelessness to discover her potential as a future nurse.

DIAMOND AWARD

EliseBoyett

AssistantDirectorforFinancialAid

The Diamond Award honors an exceptional employee exemplifying excellence in customer service, innovation, teamwork, and community service. Supportive and dedicated, Elise quietly helps colleagues and students with grace and joy. She truly walks the walk, epitomizing an Ogeechee Tech Diamond.

STUDENT IMPACT AWARD

AnneJohnson

StudentSuccessCoach

Ogeechee Technical College has honored Student Success Coach Anne Johnson as its first-ever recipient of the Technical College System of Georgia’s Student Impact Award. Recognized for her compassionate, solution-focused approach and over a decade of higher education experience, Johnson was celebrated for her profound dedication to student success.

SUPPORT STAFF OF THE YEAR

AmandaWhite

DataQualityManager

The Support Staff of the Year Award honors an outstanding employee who advances Ogeechee Technical College’s mission while highlighting the vital role of support personnel. Proven as an exceptional leader, Amanda serves with distinction through an unwavering, bright dedication that withstands any challenge.

DUAL ENROLLMENT The Ultimate Headstart

Like many high school students, Cooper Lee wasn’t exactly sure what his plans after graduation would look like. What he did know was that he enjoyed working with his hands, spending time outdoors, and figuring out how things worked.

Growing up in Statesboro and attending Portal High School, Cooper spent much of his free time hunting, fishing, and taking things apart just to see if he could put them back together. Those interests eventually pointed him toward a career path he may never have discovered without Ogeechee Technical College’s Dual Enrollment program.

With encouragement from his mother, Cooper chose OTC’s Accelerated Career pathway, one of several options available through Dual Enrollment in fields such as healthcare, industry, education, and technology. The program allowed him to complete his high school requirements while earning college credentials in welding and diesel technology. Instead of spending his junior and senior years exclusively in a traditional high school setting, Cooper became a full-time OTC student.

“The

instructors wanted to help you succeed, and before I knew it, I had graduated from college before I even walked across the stage at my high school graduation.”

“I was scared to death at first because it was college, and I was only 16,” Cooper recalled. “But once I got out here, it was amazing. The instructors wanted to help you succeed, and before I knew it, I had graduated from college before I even walked across the stage at my high school graduation.”

Today, Cooper is putting those skills to work as a Millwright with K Machine Industrial Services. The position has already taken him to job sites in Washington, D.C., and New York City, experiences he never imagined having while still in high school. “I get to travel, learn new things, and work with great people,” he said. “I’m only 18, and I had a job before I even graduated. That first paycheck was pretty amazing, too.”

Stories like Cooper’s are becoming increasingly common as more students discover opportunities to earn college credit, technical certificates, and workforce credentials before graduating high school.

“Dual Enrollment gives students the chance to explore career options, gain real-world skills, and get a headstart on their future without taking on college debt,”said Christy Rikard, VP for Student Affairs.“Whether students plan to enter the workforce immediately or continue their education, they’re gaining valuable experience and saving both time and money.”

BUILDING A WORKFORCE READY FOR INDUSTRY TRANSFORMATION

When Ogeechee Technical College broke ground on the Georgia Training Center for Industrial Operations (GTCIO) in November 2024, the vision extended far beyond constructing a new building. College and community leaders envisioned a regional hub where students could launch careers in industrial operations while employers could continuously upskill their workforce to meet rapidly evolving industry demands.

That vision becomes reality this fall as the 40,000-square-foot facility welcomes its first students and trainees.

Designed to provide nearly 460,000 hours of instruction annually, the $27 million center will serve as one of the most comprehensive industrial training facilities in the state, offering both academic programs and customized workforce development opportunities for employers across the region.

“This facility is truly unique for our state because it creates a direct pathway for anyone interested in entering the industrial and automation workforce, regardless of their experience level,” said Jan Moore, VP for Economic Development at OTC. “At the same time, it gives existing employers access to stateof-the-art training in an environment designed to meet the demands of an increasingly automated production environment.”

The facility will also serve as the home of Ogeechee Tech’s new Industrial Operations Technology diploma program, launching in August. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in modern environments of industrial automation by teaching foundational skills in mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems before advancing into robotics, programmable logic controllers, sensors, and intelligent technologies.

“In short, the Industrial Operations Technology program is designed to equip students with the expertise needed to succeed and grow professionally in today’s automated industrial environments,” Moore said. “We are surrounded by industries that are looking for employees with these skill sets. The jobs pay well, offer excellent career growth opportunities, and the demand continues to increase. It is predicted as one of the most in-demand occupations for decades to come. Our region and its residents are extraordinarily lucky to have a training facility of this caliber in their back yard.”

Employers will be able to customize workforce development programs tailored to their operational needs. Additionally, the center will also serve as an instructional training and certification site for instructors from this region, around the state, and across the country. The center will include 12 industrial labs, classrooms, and meeting spaces, and is slated to have 12 full-time instructors and additional support staff onsite.

“I cannot stress enough what an asset this will be for Bulloch County and the surrounding region,” said Benjy Thompson, CEO of the Development Authority of Bulloch County. “The training will range from foundational skills in industrial operations to that of an automation engineer. Finding that under one roof is almost unheard of. It will be life changing for many of our residents.”

As industries continue to embrace automation, robotics, and smart technologies, the GTCIO is positioned to become a cornerstone of workforce development for the region, preparing the next generation of industrial operations professionals while helping today’s workforce stay ahead of tomorrow’s demands.

in Statesboro Life Good The

WRITTEN BY JENNY STARLING FOSS

There was a time when retirement was defined by slowing down.

Today, many seniors are redefining what those years look like. They are traveling, volunteering, attending concerts, cheering from the stands, learning new skills, and discovering interests they never had time to pursue during their working years.

For those living in Statesboro, opportunities to stay active, connected, and engaged are never far away.

Whether you’ve lived here your entire life, recently retired, or are considering making Bulloch County your new home, Statesboro offers a blend of recreation, culture, education, healthcare, and community that continues to attract older adults looking for a fulfilling place to live.

A Community Designed for Connection

One of the greatest advantages of life in Statesboro is its sense of community. Neighbors still know one another. Churches remain active gathering places. Volunteer organizations welcome new members. Local nonprofits provide opportunities to serve while building meaningful friendships.

That spirit of connection extends to several senior living communities throughout the area. Residents can choose from a variety of options including The Lodge & Cottages at Bethany, Southern Manor Senior Living, The Gardens Senior Living & Memory Care Community, and Willow Pond Senior Care & Cottages. Each offers its own approach to helping residents maintain independence while enjoying the benefits of community living.

For many seniors, those relationships become just as important as the services themselves.

Lifelong Learning Never Stops

One of Statesboro’s unique advantages is the presence of higher education opportunities at Georgia Southern University and Ogeechee Technical College.

Many retirees enjoy attending lectures, performances, and special events hosted by the University and the College throughout the year. Others take advantage of continuing education opportunities and community programs that allow them to continue learning and participating long after retirement.

Georgia Southern also provides access to NCAA Division I athletics. From football Saturdays at Paulson Stadium to basketball, baseball, and softball competitions throughout the year, Georgia Southern sporting events offer seniors an opportunity to stay engaged while supporting one of the region’s most important institutions.

The excitement of game day remains just as enjoyable at 70 as it was at 20.

Arts, Culture, and Entertainment

The Averitt Center for the Arts continues to serve as one of downtown Statesboro’s cultural anchors.

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy concerts, theatrical productions, art exhibitions, lectures, and special performances that bring local and regional talent to the community. The center’s galleries and educational offerings provide opportunities for both participation and appreciation.

Creative seniors can also explore opportunities ranging from painting classes to pottery and ceramics workshops. Many local businesses offer hands-on experiences that encourage creativity while providing opportunities to socialize with friends and neighbors.

The result is a community where cultural experiences remain accessible and enjoyable.

gardeners, and outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of reasons to spend time outside.

Many seniors also enjoy exploring downtown Statesboro, where locally owned shops, restaurants, and seasonal events create opportunities to explore while supporting local businesses.

Dining and Gathering

Food has always been one of the ways communities come together, and Statesboro offers no shortage of gathering places.

From longtime local favorites to newer restaurants, residents can enjoy everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Coffee shops provide informal meeting places for friends. Local diners and cafes offer quiet spaces for breakfast, lunch, dinner and conversation.

For many retirees, lunch with friends becomes one of the week’s most anticipated activities.

It’s less about the meal and more about the relationships built around the table.

Exploring the Outdoors

Retirement often creates something many people have not enjoyed in years: time. Statesboro offers numerous ways to spend that time outdoors.

The Blind Willie McTell Trail provides a scenic setting for walking, exercising, and enjoying nature. Local parks offer additional opportunities for movement and recreation. The warm climate means that golfers can enjoy area courses, while birdwatchers,

Healthcare Close to Home

As people age, access to quality healthcare becomes increasingly important.

Fortunately, Statesboro offers a wide range of medical services that allow many residents to receive care without traveling long distances. Healthcare providers, specialists, rehabilitation services, pharmacies, and

wellness professionals work together to help seniors maintain active lifestyles. Organizations such as Ogeechee Area Hospice provide compassionate support during difficult seasons, while facilities like Eagle Health & Rehabilitation offer skilled nursing and rehabilitation services when additional care is needed.

From orthopedic care and neurology to pharmacy services and preventive health, residents benefit from a healthcare network designed to support every stage of life.

Planning for the Future

Building The Good Life also means planning wisely.

Many seniors and their families work closely with financial advisors, insurance professionals, estate planning attorneys, and other trusted experts to prepare for the future.

Whether the goal is preserving assets, managing investments, securing long-term care plans, or ensuring legal documents are in place, professional guidance can provide peace of mind and confidence.

Statesboro is home to numerous professionals who specialize in helping families navigate these important decisions. Rachel Edwards at Wright & Edwards, PC, and Elliott Marsh at Merrill Lynch, specialize in keeping seniors well covered.

More Than a Place to Retire

The best retirement communities offer more than housing. The best hometowns offer more than services. They offer opportunities.

In Statesboro, seniors can spend an afternoon attending a Georgia Southern baseball game, enjoy an evening performance at the Averitt Center, meet friends for lunch downtown, walk the Blind Willie McTell Trail, volunteer for a local cause, or simply enjoy the company of neighbors who have become friends.

Life may look different during the autumn years, but that doesn’t mean it slows down.

For many seniors, it becomes a season filled with new experiences, deeper relationships, and the freedom to enjoy the community they call home.

And in Statesboro, there is plenty to enjoy. S

Live music. Lasting impact.

Friday, July 31, 2026

912.871.3101

https://advisor.ml.com/sites/ga/statesboro-ga/manack-marsh-and-

AGRICULTURE & TOURISM

BULLOCH COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

VOTING DISTRICT 1

Lannie Lanier

lalanier@bullochschools.org

912.531.5231 (H)

Term: 1/1/2025 – 12/31/2028

VOTING DISTRICT 5

Glennera Martin

gmartinsugarhill@yahoo.com

912.531.1332 (C)

Term: 1/1/2015 – 12/31/2030

VOTING DISTRICT 2

Elizabeth Williams

ewilliams@bullochschools.org

912.682.2615 (H)

Term: 1/1/2023 – 12/31/2030

VOTING DISTRICT 6

Jimmy "Jay" Cook, Jr.

jlcook@bullochschools.org

912.512.3796 (H)

Term: 1/1/2015 – 12/31/2026

BOARD MEMBER-ELECT

Sharon Draeger

Term: 1/1/2027 – 12/31/30

VOTING DISTRICT 3

Jennifer C. Mock

jcmock@bullochschools.org

912.225.6101 (W)

Term: 1/1/25 – 12/31/28

VOTING DISTRICT 7

Lisha Nevil

lnevil@bullochschools.org

912.682.4014

Term: 1/1/25 – 12/31/28

VOTING DISTRICT 4

Donna Clifton

dclifton@bullochschools.org

912.536.3466 (H) 1/1/2023 – 12/31/2030

VOTING DISTRICT 8

Maurice Hill

hillmaurice@yahoo.com

912.764.7134 (W & H)

Term 1/1/2005 – 12/31/2028

BOARD SECRETARY

Mandy Motes

912.212.8500

mmotes@bullochschools.org

Board email: boe@bullochschools.org

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS

Visit bullochschools.org/board for a schedule of meeting dates and times, maps of the areas that each Board member represents, Board agendas and meeting packets, and official minutes of meetings. Board meetings are held in the boardroom of the school district’s Central Office located at 150 Williams Road, Suite A, in Statesboro, Georgia.

WATCH BOARD MEETINGS LIVE OR LATER

Board meetings can be watched live or later. They are live streamed online at bullochschools. org/board , and an archived video is uploaded to the website within 24 hours of each meeting.

OPEN RECORDS REQUESTS

The public may direct all open records requests to Mandy Motes, the Board of Education’s secretary and custodian of records at 912.212.8508 or recordscustodian@bullochschools.org

TO VIEW OUR STRATEGIC PLAN

Welcome, Dr. Torian White!

The Board of Education unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. White as our school district’s superintendent of schools on June 11, 2026, and he officially began his service on July 1.

One DistrictOne VisionOne Bulloch

As Superintendent, it is my honor to serve alongside a dedicated Board of Education, committed employees, supportive families, and community partners who share a common goal: preparing students for success.

Bulloch County is blessed with many strengths, including outstanding community partnerships, thriving businesses and industries, institutions of higher learning, healthcare providers, and a rich tradition of service. Yet our greatest resource remains the nearly 11,000 students who enter our schools each day.

We believe our students are capable of remarkable things, and it is our responsibility to provide the support, opportunities, and learning experiences that help them reach their fullest potential. Our work is rooted in a simple belief:

“Every student deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths and develop the knowledge and skills needed for the future path they choose.”

From Pre-K through graduation, we are committed to preparing students for their postsecondary goals, whether through employment, enlistment in military service, or enrollment in a technical college or university.

Our Board of Education is committed to providing safe, supportive learning environments where students are challenged, encouraged, and known. Through responsible planning and careful stewardship of resources, the Board helps ensure our teachers, support staff, and leaders have the tools they need to serve students well.

The excellence of Bulloch County Schools is built each day by the people who serve children. Together, we will continue building on a strong foundation while creating even greater opportunities for students and families.

Thank you for your support of public education and for the trust you place in our schools.

In Service, Dr. Torian White Superintendent of Schools

Georgia Department of Education

Statesboro High School

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

STEM & STEM ACHIEVEMENT SCHOOL

Georgia Department of Education

Brooklet Elementary & Nevils Elementary

TITLE I

DISTINGUISHED SCHOOLS

Georgia Department of Education

Mattie Lively Elementary & Julia P. Bryant Elementary

TITLE I REWARD SCHOOLS

BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS AT-A-GLANCE

SCHOOLS

15 Schools (total)

9 Elementary Schools (PK-5)

3 Middle Schools (6-8)

2 High Schools (PK, 9-12)

1 Middle-High (6-12)

13 of the schools are Title I schools (86.70%)

STUDENT WELLNESS & SUPPORT LEARNING PROGRAMS

• Transitions Learning Center (6-12)

• Graduation Performance Academy (9-12)

• Cedarwood (GNETS – 4-12)

FACULTY & STAFF

• 2,700+ Total full-time, part-time, contracted services, seasonal and substitute employees

• 998 Certified Faculty

• Bulloch County’s 2nd Largest Employer

TRANSPORTATION

• 115 School Bus Routes

• 125 drivers, 33 bus monitors, and 7 mechanics make up our driving force

• 5,700+ student bus riders; Ride 2x daily

• 6,300 miles bus drivers travel each day

• 1.5 million miles bus drivers travel annually

• Drivers conduct daily pre-route and post-route bus inspections

• Every 20 days buses are serviced & inspected by a qualified mechanic

SCHOOL NUTRITION PROGRAM

• All students receive free breakfast

• 12 schools qualify for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Community Eligibility Provision which permits all students at those schools to also receive free lunch regardless of family income.

• 78.48% of the school district’s 10,841 students qualified for free or reduced-price school meals

• Bulloch County ranks 75th out of Georgia’s 159 counties for children with the lack of consistent access to food in order to live an active healthy life

• 1,802,238 total meals were served to students in 2025-2026

• 55,828 total meals were served during the summer of 2025 PER-PUPIL EXPENDITURES

Georgia Department of Education

Nevils & Portal Elementary Schools

Southeast Bulloch Middle School

LITERACY LEADER SCHOOLS

Georgia Department of Education

Mattie Lively Elementary School

Portal, Southeast

Bulloch & William James Middle Schools

MATH LEADER SCHOOLS

Georgia Department of Education

Bulloch County Schools School Nutrition Services

GEORGIA FARM TO SCHOOL AWARD

BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS AT-A-GLANCE

SCHOOL DISCIPLINE & SAFETY

• 3,681 Total discipline incidents

• 0% of incidents involved weapons; No guns

• 1% of incidents involved drugs/alcohol

• 6% of incidents involved vapes

• 5% of incidents were attendance related

• 71% of incidents involved harm to person

• 1,620 Students involved in incidents

• 29.5% Led to out-of-school suspension

• 42.9% Led to in-school suspension

• 1.1% Led to expulsion

• 0.3% Expulsion rate

• 8.4% In-School Suspension Rate

• 6.0% Out-of-School Suspension Rate

• 72.7% of incidents involved males

• 27.3% of incidents involved females

STUDENT SUPPORT PROVIDERS

School Social Workers for District: 4

School Psychologists: 6

School Counselors (Full-Time): 27

School Resource Officers: 12

School Safety Director: ........................................... 1

TOTAL STUDENTS ENROLLED

• 11,428

• 85.5% Economically Disadvantaged Students

• 16.4% Students with Disabilities

• 4.2% Students receive English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services

• 11.8% Students receive Gifted Services

STUDENT MOBILITY RATE

• 16.5% District Average

STUDENT DIVERSITY

• 24 Nationalities

• 18 Languages

• 45.7% Caucasian

• 38.6% Black

• 8.8% Hispanic

• 1.8% Asian/Pacific Islander

• 0.2% American Indian

• 4.9% More than one race

ACCOUNTABILITY DATA

Bulloch County Schools seeks to provide transparency and access to important information about the performance and progress of the school district and each of its schools. It is our goal to remain compliant with all federal education accountability requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act and with state requirements to report student achievement, school climate, and financial efficiency data. In collaboration with the Georgia Department of Education and the Governor's Office of Student Achievement, we provide a data dashboard on our website to help you better engage with the education of our community's children. Find it at bullochschools.org/data.

FOUR-YEAR GRADUATION RATE

CLASS OF 2025 GRADUATION RATES

742

Number of Class of 2025 graduates; 344 of whom (47.12%) were eligible for Georgia’s HOPE Scholarships.

422

Number of graduates from the Class of 2025 who enrolled in a postsecondary institution within 16 months of graduation.

2.6%

Dropout Rate for Grades 9-12 (89 Students)

ACT

The Class of 2025 had 50 test takers.

Composite Score Avg.: Bulloch: 19.8

Georgia: 21.4

United States: 19.4

SAT

The Class of 2025 had 209 test takers.

Mean Score Avg.: Bulloch: 1074

Georgia: 1029

United States: 996

DEMOGRAPHIC SUBGROUPS

2025 GEORGIA COLLEGE & CAREER READY PERFORMANCE INDEX

THE GEORGIA MILESTONES ASSESSMENT SYSTEM MONITORS STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AND GROWTH. Third through eighth grades take the end-ofgrade tests, and ninth through twelfth grades take the end-of-course tests. The tests measure how well students have learned the knowledge and skills within Georgia’s English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies content standards. Georgia Milestones serves as a key component of the state's accountability system – the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI). The CCRPI features five key indicators: Content mastery, progress, closing learning gaps, readiness and graduation rates. These are the most recent 2025 CCRPI results. New results are released each October.

READING PROFICIENCY

• 66.67% of Elementary Students Read on Grade Level or Above

• 64.70% of Middle School Students Read on Grade Level or Above

• 63.76% of High School Students Read on Grade Level or Above Proficiency is reading on or above grade level and above the Lexile midpoint. Studies show that children who are not reading on grade level by the end of 2nd grade are likely to stay behind grade level through 5th grade. This severely limits their ability to read for content and comprehension across all subjects.

GEORGIA SUPPORT & IMPROVEMENT SCHOOLS

• In 2026, no schools in the Bulloch County School System were added to Georgia’s lists of Comprehensive or Targeted Support Schools.

• In 2024, Langston Chapel Elementary School and Stilson Elementary School were placed on the state’s Additional Targeted Support and Improvement List (ATSI). This status will continue for three years, until the fall of 2026, when the state will re-evaluate the schools for possible removal. The schools received this designation due to the performance of their students with disabilities in grades 3–5 on the Spring 2023 Georgia Milestones Assessment System. Both schools continue to benefit from targeted, data-driven support provided by the school district and the Georgia Department of Education. These efforts aim to improve academic outcomes and address the needs of the identified student subgroups.

CAREER READY BULLOCH HOSTS 5TH ANNUAL CAREER WORKFORCE SUMMIT

EVENT

CONNECTS EDUCATORS WITH BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY

Bulloch County School’s College & Career Program, Career Ready Bulloch, invited local leaders and educators, business owners, and industry partners to connect at the 5th Annual Career Workforce Summit on January 21, 2026, at the Jack Hill Building on the campus of Ogeechee Technical College in Statesboro. The annual summit serves as a premier opportunity for community stakeholders to network and collaborate on building a robust local talent pipeline.

GEORGIA LAUNCHES NEW WORKBASED LEARNING DIPLOMA OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS WHO PLAN TO ENTER HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS

The Georgia Department of Education announced in June 2026, that it is launching a new Work-Based Learning Diploma for students who plan to directly enter high-demand careers right after graduation. The new diploma maintains Georgia’s 23-credit graduation requirement while creating a pathway for students to complete focused Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) coursework and extensive work-based learning experiences aligned to high-demand careers. Students pursuing the diploma will complete two High Demand CTAE or Academic Career Pathways and at least four work-based learning courses in a paid position connected to one of the pathways.

FIRST ANNUAL ADMINISTRATOR INDUSTRY BUS TOUR

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT LOCAL EMPLOYERS

Bulloch County School’s College & Career Program, Career Ready Bulloch, hosted its inaugural bus tour for school administrators in June 2026. The leaders toured two local manufacturers: Briggs & Stratton and SECO Ecoplastics. It was an opportunity to network with industry partners who employ our graduates and learn more about modern manufacturing practices and skills. The Development Authority of Bulloch County also spoke with the group during a working lunch. “Strong workforce development can’t happen in isolation,” said Bethany Gilliam, director of Career, Technical & Agricultural Education for Bulloch County Schools. “Collaborating with local employers helps us build a highly educated, skilled, and efficient workforce.”

13 Career Clusters

34 Career Pathways

98.06% CTAE Graduation Rate

78% passed End of Pathway Assessment

WORK-BASED LEARNING

1,491 students taking at least one CTAE course at one high school

1,321 student members of Career Technical Student Organizations

609 participants in Dual Enrollment

44 Identified as Accelerated Career Diploma students

461 pathway completers

EVENTS

9 events

1,338 students

23 event partners

STUDENT SUCCESS HIGHLIGHTS

EIGHT STUDENTS COMPLETE YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

During the 2025-2026 school year, eight students completed the Youth Apprenticeship Program. They each logged a minimum of 720 hours of hands-on work at job sites directly related to their career goals. They also earned an industry-recognized credential. We appreciate these students and our industry partners who mentored them: Bradley Brown , H3 Home Services, LLC; Abbie Cowart , Serenity Day Spa & Salon; Aries Dalgo, Pittman Park Educational Center; Garrett Hickman , Cartee Construction & Utilities; Hayden Harville, Waters Family Farms; Collan Hitchcock , Will Anderson Farms; Erica Sirmans , Bulloch County Recreation & Parks Afterschool Program; and Blaine Akin , Watts Up.

SALLIE ZETTEROWER ELEMENTARY PRE-K STUDENT WINS MONEY FOR COLLEGE

Jentry Evans, a Pre-Kindergarten student at Sallie Zetterower Elementary School, is one of only four state winners of the 2026 Georgia Path2College 529 Savings Account Sweepstakes. Nominated by her mother, who is a Pre-K teacher at the school, Jentry received $1,529 deposited into a Path2College 529 savings account. Sallie Zetterower’s Pre-Kindergarten program also received $1,529.

CHARLIE'ANN

ALDRICH

Southeast Bulloch

High School

S.E. Region WorkBased Learning Student of the Year

Georgia Association for Career & Technical Education

JAYDON LUKE

Statesboro High School

2026 Emerging Farmer of the Year

Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce

71 GRADUATES RECEIVE CAREER READY DIPLOMA SEALS

The Class of 2026 had 71 graduates who secured official state credentials by earning Career Ready Diploma Seals for Leadership Skills and Distinguished Career Pathway Skills. These seals bestowed by the State of Georgia are awarded to high school students who engage in activities, courses, and experiences that foster career readiness. And further prove they are ready to be enrolled, enlisted, or employed. Ten students earned Leadership Skills Seals, and 61 earned Distinguished Pathway Skills Seals.

TWO BULLOCH

COUNTY STUDENTS SELECTED FOR STATE SUPERINTENDENT’S ADVISORY COUNCIL

Two Bulloch County high school students were selected to serve on the State Superintendent’s Advisory Council during the 2025-2026 school year. Gracie Autry of Portal Middle High School and Ella Faye Rountree of Southeast Bulloch High School are two of just 79 students who were selected from a pool of 1,235 applicants statewide to serve on the prestigious council. Throughout the academic year, the duo traveled to Atlanta to meet with State School Superintendent Richard Woods, acted as ambassadors for their schools and provided direct feedback on how state education policies impact local classrooms.

GREYSON HITCHCOCK

Southeast Bulloch

High School

Heavy Equipment

Operators Dozer School

Champion & State

Champion Runner-up

Georgia Highway Contractors Association

KAMRYN WILLIAMS

Southeast Bulloch High School

Elected 2026-2027

State FCCLA President

Georgia Family, Career and Community Leaders of America

KATIELYN YATES

Portal Middle High School

Elected Central

Region Area 4 FFA

Vice President

Georgia FFA Association

GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

BULLOCH LAUNCHES GENERATIVE AI FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TEACHER-GUIDED AI LEARNING ADDED FOR GRADES 9 TO 12; GOAL IS TO EXTEND TO MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Bulloch County Schools has expanded its use of digital resources by adding access to Generative Artificial Intelligence, known as Gen AI, for high school students. The goal is to extend it to middle grades in Fiscal Year 2027.

The implementation is limited to two Gen AI tools: Google Gemini and Notebook Language Model (LM). Each is housed within the protected online space, like a “walled garden,” of the school district’s Google App Suite of learning tools with which students are already safe and familiar.

“Gen AI is a specific kind of AI technology that focuses only on creating new, original things such as text, images, video, audio and software code,” said Teresa Phillips, the school district’s assistant superintendent of teaching and learning, who put together an extensive district-wide team of teachers, principals, technology administrators, and support staff who worked toward this launch goal for two years. “Gen AI will

always work best when partnered with human skills, so we prioritized AI-readiness for both staff and students to guide its safe and effective use,” Phillips added.

The district acknowledges that the technology is new, so it’s important teachers, parents, and students work together to become good digital citizens of its use. Just as previous generations learned to use computers, the internet and email to help them be more successful, we now must responsibly teach Gen AI to students as this era’s resource tool.

“This means we are all learning how to use Gen AI as a helpful tool while always staying in charge of and accountable for what we create and use,” said Phillips. “By teaching these skills, we will help students be better prepared for future jobs where knowing how to use technology wisely and ethically will be a superpower.”

Student safety is Bulloch County Schools’ top priority. The school district’s use

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

If families have any further questions or concerns about the launch of Gen AI in Bulloch County Schools, please email them to webster@bullochschools.org. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found at bullochschools.org/GenAI or scan the QR code.

of a “walled garden” approach with the digital learning tools it uses helps ensure employees and students remain in compliance with federal and state laws, school board policies and the student code of conduct.

“Keeping personal information safe and private is our most important job,” said Phillips. “The time we’ve taken to plan this launch and train our teachers first, will help us better model for students how to protect personal privacy and spot any unfair biases a Gen AI program may generate.”

The school district teaches students to question what they see and learn on other digital platforms like the internet and social media, so it wants to teach them to question what Gen AI tells them as well, so that they become smarter researchers and better problem-solvers who double-check everything to make sure it is true and fair.

Students are being taught to view Gen AI as a “thought partner” and “brainstorming buddy” rather than a replacement for thinking. Teachers are communicating clear academic expectations which helps students understand when and how it’s appropriate to use Gen AI for an assignment.

“Our students are being taught to use Gen AI to expand their ideas while learning the essential habit of citing their sources accurately,” Phillips added.

High school students have access to Gemini and NotebookLM at school, as well as at home through their student Google accounts. The school district flags any misuse at either location. Parents are encouraged to engage with these tools at home with their child.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION HELPS LAUNCH PROJECT SEARCH

NATIONAL PROGRAM EMPOWERS YOUNG ADULT STUDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL & DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

Project SEARCH, a national program empowering young adult students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve competitive employment in our community, launched in Bulloch County Schools in the 2025 to 2026 school year.

Thanks to a partnership between Bulloch County Schools, Georgia Southern University, and Statesboro High School the program successfully served its first six students. The school district plans to expand the program to Portal and Southeast Bulloch high schools and increase the number of available intern spaces and work sites.

Project SEARCH is designed as a one-year program that serves special education students, known as interns, who are ages 19 to 22 and in their final year of high school. It equips interns with the essential skills needed for community employment. The program is housed in classroom space provided by Georgia Southern’s College of Education and is led by Jessica Elmore, a well-respected and passionate special education teacher in the school district, with assistance from Bernice Joiner, a paraprofessional and skills trainer.

“This is the most fulfilled that I have ever been in my career,” shared Elmore, who holds bachelor's and master’s degrees in special education and has served for 22 years as an educator.

Program interns must have an individualized education plan and parent permission to participate. The Project SEARCH school year is structured into three 10-week sessions. During these sessions, interns rotate through various work sites, which were initially established on the Georgia Southern campus. Interns work from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, followed by an additional hour with Mrs. Elmore to discuss job skills and challenges.

Georgia Southern has established a range of work-based learning sites that provide opportunities in clerical, food service, customer service, document scanning, custodial, event set-up and scheduling, library services, and inventory control. Elmore strategically places interns, coordinating closely with site supervisors to help develop specific skills for each individual. Beyond technical skills, the program

heavily focuses on critical “soft skills” for employment, such as communication, physical stamina, time management, and even navigating the university's campus bus system and mobile app. Bulloch County Schools plans to expand the program to serve 10 internship spaces and partner with 10 to 15 work sites in the community and on Georgia Southern's campus, providing more young adults with a path toward competitive employment and community integration.

COMMUNITY VOTES TO EXTEND E-SPLOST

E-SPLOST VI CONTINUES FUNDING FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS

Registered voters in Bulloch County cast their votes in the General Election on November 4, 2025, and approved to extend the one-penny education sales tax for five more years. Bulloch County Schools is currently in its fifth E-SPLOST cycle, which ends on December 31, 2027. At its August 14, 2025 regular session, the Board of Education voted to place the E-SPLOST VI referendum on the ballot early to be active January 1, 2028 through December 31, 2032. The Board of Education has used E-SPLOSTs since 2003, to fund capital improvement needs for local public schools such as constructing new schools, facility renovations, athletic facilities, playground equipment, safety and technology infrastructure, school buses, and other equipment. For more information about how these funds will be used visit bullochschools.org/ESPLOST

1.

10

“WHERE WE SERVE MEALS AT SCHOOL, NOT SCHOOL MEALS.” Reasons to Eat Meals at School

Breakfast is free for all students, and lunch is free for all students at 12 of 15 schools by using the U.S.D.A’s Community Eligibility Program.

3.

Our Farm-to-School program is adding more locally-sourced produce and proteins, grown by farmers we know, to our school meals.

5.

Our School Nutrition Services uses the Food Guide for Better School Purchasing to ensure that we only purchase food products with safe ingredients.

7.

Our School Nutrition Services director is a member of the Healthy Kids Collaborative, an invitation-only program of the Culinary Institute of America that seeks to accelerate innovation and deepen technical and professional expertise in K-12 school food. She is one of only two school nutrition directors in Georgia who are members.

2.

Our digital menus and mobile meal application allow families to see the ingredients in our foods and set up alerts to be notified when menus include known allergens.

4.

6.

TOTAL MEALS SERVED IN 2025-2026: 1,802,238 BREAKFAST: 656,419 LUNCH:

1,145,819

We host taste testing events with student focus groups to gather input from our customers.

Our School Nutrition Services is one of only three programs in Georgia to be selected to pursue an Eat Real Certification. The two-year certification process for K-12 food service leaders consists of 10 evidence-based standards that measure 34 key performance indicators in a school district’s menu plans and procurement practices to make sure that their menus are more delicious, nutritious, and responsibly sourced.

9.

Each of our school kitchens is inspected regularly by the Department of Public Health, and we consistently score 98-100.

TOTAL SUMMER MEALS JUNE 2025: 55,828

AVERAGE NUMBER OF MEALS SERVED PER DAY: 10,307

8.

We are one of the largest restaurants in Bulloch County with 85 employees who prepare and serve more than 1.8 million meals annually across 16 school cafeterias.

10.

We use an offer-versusserve method. This means our food service staff will encourage and offer students to try food items, but students are allowed to refuse any food items they do not want. The offer-versus-serve method reduces our food costs by decreasing waste.

Food Expenditures with Local Farmers: $85,379.04

Number of School Nutrition Employees: 85

State Financial Efficiency Rating

It's important to note that Bulloch County Schools made a decision more than 20 years ago to maintain its community schools in Portal, Stilson, Nevils, and Brooklet rather than make facilities plans which favored consolidation. The strong community engagement enjoyed by these schools was determined to be a local value to be preserved; however, this does keep a higher number of schools, which are each cost centers. This is one factor which makes our school district's financial efficiency rating lower and our per-pupil expenditures higher.

Annual Audit Results in No Findings & State Award

The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts completed its annual independent audit of the Bulloch County Board of Education for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, and again it resulted in no findings and an award of excellence.

We received an unmodified audit opinion on both our financial statements, our major federal programs, and the special purpose local option sales tax. An unmodified audit opinion is the best audit opinion that can be received. In addition, we received no financial statement findings and no federal award findings. We once again received the state’s Award of Distinction for Excellent Financial Reporting. Bulloch County Schools 2027 Fiscal Year began July 1, 2026. The Board of Education works with the superintendent and district leadership to annually adopt an operating budget by June 30. The school district's budgets and audit reports are available online at bullochschools.org/budget.

GENERAL FUND HIGHLIGHTS ($ MILLIONS)

For complete budget information on all Bulloch County Board of Education funds, capital projects, E-SPLOST and state audit reports, visit bullochschools.org/budget.

The overall Fiscal Year 2027 Budget consists of five funds with total revenues of $211,786.383: General, Special Revenue, School Nutrition, Capital Projects, and Debt Service funds. FISCAL YEAR 2027 ALL FUNDS BUDGETED TOTAL ALL FUND EXPENDITURES – $283,203,669 Instruction: $109,305,632

Maintenance & Operations of Plant: $17,062,083 Student Transportation Services: $10,800,261

JOHN HENDRIX

Portal Middle High School

Georgia STEM

Teacher of the Year

Georgia Air & Space Forces Association

KACIE CRAIG

Southeast Bulloch High School

Georgia’s New FBLA Advisor of the Year

Georgia Future Business Leaders of America

CHARITY MASTERS

Southeast Bulloch High School

Elected to the Georgia FCCLA Board of Directors

Georgia Family, Career and Community Leaders of America

BETHANY GILLIAM

Central Office 2026 Graduate Leadership Southeast Georgia

ALISON HARDIN

Brooklet

Elementary School

2025-2026

Bulloch County Teacher of the Year

Bulloch County Schools

ASHLEY B. WRIGHT

Southeast Bulloch High School Teacher of Excellence Award

Georgia Southern University College of Education

2026-2027 SCHOOL-LEVEL

TEACHERS

OF THE YEAR

These teachers will be honored during the 2026-2027 school year, and those eligible will compete for the Bulloch County Schools

Teacher of the Year title and possibly advance to the Georgia Teacher of the Year and the 2028 National Teacher of the Year competitions.

Ciara Sims

Melissa Bazemore

Grayson Ray

Taylor Elkins

Colleen Winslette

Katina Archie

Haven Ackerman

Sarah Earls

John Hendrix

Elise Golieb

Brooklet Elementary

Julia P. Bryant Elementary

Langston Chapel Elementary

Langston Chapel Middle

Mattie Lively Elementary

Mill Creek Elementary

Nevils Elementary

Portal Elementary

Portal Middle High

Sallie Zetterower Elementary

Anna Swint ......................................................................

Southeast Bulloch Middle

RENEE ROGERS

Southeast Bulloch High School

Teacher Hero Award

Grace Ed Technologies

CHRIS CLARK

Central Office; Langston Chapel Elementary Teacher of Excellence Award

Georgia Southern University College of Education

JESSICA AUTRY

Portal Elementary School

Georgia Mentor Teacher Award for the Southeast P-20 Regional Education

Collaborative

Georgia Association of Colleges for Teacher Education

PLYSHELTIA

DRAYTON

Mattie Lively Elementary School Teacher of Excellence Award

Georgia Southern University College of Education

2026 BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS RETIREES

THESE 53 RETIREES DEVOTED A COMBINED TOTAL OF 1,148 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE CHILDREN OF BULLOCH COUNTY.

Karla Anderson

Jennifer Bailey

Denise Bearden

Alison Boatright

Denise Borck

Thomas Borck

LaSonya Brunson

Scott Chapman

Larry Childers

Paul Driggers

Cathy Futch

Jeff Giddens

Priscilla

Gordon-McClain

Patricia Hagins

Marilyn Jones

Sandra Kirby

Sharmane Lee

Runnette Lewis

Vicki Lewis

Pete Marshall

Anne McCord

Debra Mitchell

Julie Mizell

Valerie Morton

Enola Mosley

Tony Natson

Lori NeSmith

Lawana

Pennington

Ginny Smith

Serena Smith

Lisa Southwell

Vernetta Staten

Suzette Stills

Tammy Sutton

Dee Dee

Thompson

Jack Thornton

Phillip Tremble

Marianna Voiselle

Judy Ware

Cyndi Williams

Julie Williams

Diana Johnson

Raymond Mendoza

Southeast Bulloch High

Statesboro High

Melvin Hamilton

Christy Inman

Farrah Reddick

Delenah Rogers

Michael Williams

Charles Wilson

Joanna Mosely ...........................................................................

Zach Barrow

Stilson Elementary

William James Middle

Steven Jarrell

Sandy Johnson

Paige Rountree

Monica Skaarup

Bobby Woods

Celentria Young

The Bulloch County Foundation for Public Education (Foundation) is a 501 (c)3 charitable organization which provides college scholarships for students and competitive grants and teacher of the year monetary awards for faculty in Bulloch County Schools. The Foundation provides a way for individuals, businesses, industries, and local civic organizations to invest in local education programs that benefit public, charter, private, and home schooled students.

BULLOCH COUNTY FOUNDATION FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL EDUCATION

A charitable foundation that supports these worthwhile education programs

REACH GA SCHOLARSHIPS | STAR STUDENT/TEACHER INNOVATION GRANTS | TEACHER OF THE YEAR

• Since 2006, the Foundation has funded nearly 320 innovative teacher grants totaling more than $406,087 to fund learning experiences for Bulloch County children.

• Since 2013, the Foundation has been the underwriting sponsor for Bulloch County Schools’ REACH Georgia Scholars program, providing annual seed capital to ensure that the district’s selected scholars, now totaling 67, receive a $10,000 college scholarship upon graduation and successful completion of the program. To date the Foundation has invested $90,000 in this endeavor, which has helped make college possible for graduates, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college.

• Since 2009, the Foundation has provided $26,500 in monetary awards to Bulloch County Schools’ district-level and school-level teachers of the year.

• The Foundation is also the underwriting sponsor for the STAR Student/STAR Teacher program for Bulloch County’s five participating public and private schools.

The Foundation’s major fundraising campaigns are the Statesboro 5K Turkey Trot and Bulloch County Schools’ payroll deduction option for its employees. Make a tax deductible contribution by contacting the Foundation by telephone or mail or use the online donation button on the Statesboro 5K Turkey Trot's race website at bullochschools.org/ Foundation or the QR code below. 150 Williams Road, Suite A

www.bullochschools.org/foundation

150 Williams Road, Suite A | Statesboro, GA 30458

T: 912.212.8500 | F: 912.212.8529 www.bullochschools.org | boe@bullochschools.org

Donate to the Foundation or register for the 19th Annual Statesboro 5K Turkey Trot.

WRITTEN BY LAZAR BROWN OGLESBY

LEven More Honey

IFE HAS BEEN A LITTLE BUSIER FOR ME LATELY. I REOPENED HONEY CAFE IN MILLEN THIS PAST October and it’s been an answered prayer and a big blessing! I closed the restaurant portion of Honey in Millen in 2020 after the onset of COVID and some personal health struggles. The Millen kitchen remained my headquarters for catering, cheesecakes, and casseroles. This same building was also the home of Dolan’s BBQ for a brief period before the Statesboro location opened. I don’t know how my tiny walk-in cooler survived two restaurants in one location! Talk about growing pains!

When Dolan’s moved to Statesboro the place felt empty. The steady flow of customers was gone, my sister, Mary Beth was completely consumed with running Dolan’s new location, and the Dolan’s employees who were like family were missing from my daily life. I devoted all my energy to my family, catering, and cheesecakes. My health was in such a mess at this point I focused on making it through each day. I still don’t know or understand why I felt so badly, but that’s a story for another day. I never wanted my customers to feel like I abandoned them but I had to take some time to feel better.

I used the front portion of the building for storage and boxing cheesecakes for shipping during this healing season. I’m not a naturally organized person. I thrive in active chaos, but the emptiness and catch-all state of my no longer open dining area drove me nuts! I knew that space was meant for more!

Every summer during our slow season I get antsy and bored. I felt so sad when I walked through the front of our beautiful building. It was a silent, dark, and cluttered space that was once full of laughter, happy customers, and delicious food. I rolled the idea of reopening Honey Café around in my mind for a few months. I thought everyone would say, “Are you nuts??” I casually brought it up with my Honey crew over lunch and they immediately said, “YES”!! I was surprised and encouraged.

Vidalia Onion Dip

INGREDIENTS:

1 large Vidalia Onion

2 8 oz. blocks Cream Cheese

½ c. Duke’s Real Mayonnaise®

1 c. Grated Cheddar Cheese

PREPARATION:

2 c. Grated Mozzarella Dash Worcestershire Salt & Pepper

Chop onion into small piece and place in a medium size mixing bowl. Add softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup cheddar, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined. Place in a greased 8 x 8 casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bake at 350˚ for 20-30 minutes. Serve with crackers or corn chips.

BLT Wedge Salad

INGREDIENTS:

1 head Iceberg Lettuce

1 c. Duke’s Real Mayonnaise®

1 c. Sour Cream

1 Fresh Tomato (diced)

3 Green Onions (chopped)

PREPARATION:

1 packet Dry Ranch Dip Mix

1 lb. Bacon (cooked & crumbled)

1 c. Grated Cheddar Cheese

½ c. Honey Roasted Peanuts (chopped)

Core the iceberg lettuce. Wash and drain. Cut the head of the iceberg into 4-6 wedges. Put the lettuce in refrigerator covered with a damp paper towel until ready to plate. Combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, diced tomato, ranch mix, and green onion. You can refrigerate the dressing for 3-5 days. You can plate each wedge individually or on a platter. I usually use a platter. Place all the wedges on a platter and top with a spoon full of dressing, bacon, cheddar, and peanuts. Serve immediately.

Blackberry Jelly

INGREDIENTS:

6 c. Blackberry Juice (approximately 4 quarts of blackberries)

10 c. Sugar

12 oz. Liquid Pectin

TO PREPARE THE JUICE:

Wash and sort fully ripe berries. Crush the berries and strain juice through a fine mesh strainer or jelly bag.

TO MAKE THE JELLY:

Place juice and sugar in a heavy bottom pot. Bring to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.

Add the pectin and bring back to a full rolling boil. Boil hard for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and skim off foam. Pour jelly immediately into sterilized jars and add lid seals to the mouth of the jars. This recipe makes fifteen 8 ounce jars.

I don’t know why I was surprised because these wonderful people are always ready to support me in every way! Later that weekend I told my husband, Johnny, my thoughts on reopening and he agreed it was a great idea. We all felt it was such a waste of a perfectly good building! We were there cooking 3-5 days of the week anyway, so we knew we could easily welcome customers again.

We reopened with a simple sandwich shop concept. Everything is packaged in to-go containers. We have seating and encourage folks to sit and eat! Think cute, casual roadside market vibes. We wanted to offer many of Honey’s specialties without the full scale restaurant we had before. We offer all 5 flavors of chicken salad, pimento cheese, turkey, ham, clubs, and of course the bee’s knees (ham or turkey, pimento cheese, and pepper jam on a croissant). We also offer daily specials including: “blue plates”, original Honey menu items, soups, and seasonal favorites.

As always cheesecake remains a huge part of our business. We have whole, mini, and slices of cheesecake available every day! My heart sings when I walk up front and see the cheesecake case lit up with slices of our most popular product!

The first few months were a learning curve and we charged head on into the holiday season in 2025. My heart was so full! The faithful customers returned and loved us with open arms. It is great to feel needed and loved. My hope has always been that Honey would be a bright spot in someone’s day, because every customer who walks through the door makes my day better! Even the grouchy ones!

We added shelves of specialty food products, candles, a freezer full of casseroles, and a fridge full of pints of chicken salad and pimento cheese. One of my favorite areas is the gift basket table. I love creating custom food inspired gift baskets for customers complete with custom Honey ribbon.

I started with a vision and we are slowly and carefully achieving it! I didn’t want to rush things or make it overwhelming for me or my employees.

We added fresh produce this spring. It’s been so much FUN! I love the produce community! Farmers always hold a special place in my heart. All of my produce vendors have been so kind and helpful.

The building has come back to life. The transformation did not stop with the building!! I feel lighter, brighter, and better. There are days when I am tired to the core but I firmly believe the Lord designed our lives to be filled with meaningful work that is a blessing to others. I sing the refrain below on particularly trying days.

I will work, I will pray,

In the vineyard, in the vineyard of the Lord; I will work, I will pray, I will labor ev'ry day, In the vineyard of the Lord.

I have had an abundance of fresh produce at my fingertips this spring/summer season. These are a few recipes that we have enjoyed. S

THE ALWAYS IN STYLE— Southern Fern

IN SOUTH GEORGIA’S WARM, HUMID CLIMATE FERNS ARE MORE THAN JUST FILLER PLANTS. THEY’RE A STAPLE OF SHADED PORCHES, PATIOS, AND GARDEN beds, offering lush green texture during long, hot summers. But not all ferns behave the same way. If you’ve ever wondered which fern is best suited for your space, here’s a closer look at four popular choices: Boston fern, Kimberly Queen fern, Macho fern, and Kangaroo fern. You can purchase these ferns at all local plant stores, big box stores and even at the grocery store. I bought some at the FFA sale at Southeast Bulloch High School this spring.

BOSTON FERN ( NEPHROLEPIS EXALTATA )

The classic Southern porch plant, the Boston fern is beloved for its graceful, arching fronds and full, feathery appearance. It thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity—conditions that South Georgia naturally provides for much of the year. However, Boston ferns can be a bit high-maintenance. They require consistent watering and don’t tolerate drying out. In hanging baskets, they may need daily watering during peak summer heat.

That said, their softness and movement are unmatched. For those seeking a classic Southern porch aesthetic, few plants make a statement quite like a lush Boston fern. They also benefit from occasional misting or a humid environment, making them ideal for covered porches rather than fully exposed areas.

KIMBERLY QUEEN FERN ( NEPHROLEPIS OBLITERATA )

If Boston ferns are the belle of the ball, Kimberly Queen ferns are the reliable, no-nonsense cousin. Their upright, sword-like fronds give them a more structured appearance, making them perfect for flanking doorways or anchoring container arrangements.

One of their biggest advantages is durability. Kimberly Queens are more tolerant of sun and drought than Boston ferns, though they still prefer partial shade in South Georgia’s intense summers. They’re also less prone to shedding, which makes them a cleaner option for indoor use or tidy outdoor spaces.

For gardeners who love the look of ferns but don’t want to fuss over daily care, Kimberly Queen is right for you. When planted in the ground, these ferns will return season after season, even when we have a hard freeze. I have had them to naturalize and become somewhat of a nuisance.

MACHO FERN ( NEPHROLEPIS BISERRATA)

True to its name, the Macho fern is bold and oversized. Its fronds are broader, longer, and more dramatic than those of a Boston fern, giving it a tropical, almost jungle-like presence. If you’re trying to make a bold statement on a patio or in a shaded garden bed, this is your plant.

Macho ferns thrive in partial shade to full shade and appreciate consistently moist soil, though they are slightly more forgiving than Boston ferns if you miss a watering. They also perform well planted

WRITTEN BY

VIRGINIA ANNE FRANKLIN WATERS

directly in the ground in Zone 8b, where they can spread and create a dense, eye-catching mass. I’ve planted several this year in the ground both in full sun and morning sun. I’ll let you know how they do over the hot summer months in the Boro.

Because of their size, Macho ferns need space. They’re not ideal for small hanging baskets but shine in large containers or landscape settings where they can really stretch out.

KANGAROO FERN ( MICROSORUM DIVERSIFOLIUM )

For something a little different, the Kangaroo fern offers a unique twist on the traditional fern look. Its glossy, leathery leaves—often shaped somewhat like a kangaroo’s paw—set it apart from the softer, feathery varieties.

Kangaroo ferns are more tolerant of lower humidity and can handle indoor conditions better than most other ferns on this list. Outdoors, they prefer shade and well-drained soil. Unlike the others, they don’t like to stay constantly soggy, so good drainage is key.

Their growth habit is more spreading than upright, making them excellent for mixed containers or as a groundcover in shady areas. They bring a modern, slightly exotic feel to garden designs.

Choosing the Right Fern for Your Space

In South Georgia, all four of these ferns can thrive with the right placement and care. The key differences come down to maintenance, appearance, and intended use.

• Choose Boston ferns for classic beauty and lush hanging baskets—but be ready to water often.

• Go with Kimberly Queen ferns for structure, durability, and lower maintenance.

• Opt for Macho ferns when you want bold, tropical impact in larger spaces.

• Try Kangaroo ferns for something unique, especially in mixed containers or indoor settings.

With their varied textures and growth habits, these ferns can easily complement one another, creating layered, visually rich plantings. Whether you’re dressing up a shaded porch or filling in a garden bed, there’s a fern perfectly suited to your South Georgia landscape. S

The Intimacy of Betrayal

WRITTEN BY REV. DR. JOHN WATERS

BETRAYAL IS AN UGLY THING. BUT IT IS ALSO AN INTIMATE THING.

Few wounds cut as deeply as betrayal. The people who have the greatest ability to hurt us are often the very people we love, trust, and welcome closest into our lives. Strangers may disappoint us, but betrayal usually comes from those who know our stories, our struggles, our secrets, and our hearts.

The betrayal of Jesus by Judas reminds us of this painful truth. Judas did not identify Jesus with a weapon or a shout from a distance. He identified Jesus with a kiss. There is a sobering lesson in the reminder that only those close enough to embrace us are close enough to betray us.

Betrayal leaves behind hurt, brokenness, and disappointment. It can fracture marriages, divide friends, damage businesses, and strain families. Many people carry scars from promises broken, trust violated, and relationships wounded. The pain can linger long after the event itself.

Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (LUKE 23:34).

The church I pastor is filled with people who have struggled with betrayal in one form or another. Sometimes it comes to us in our business dealings, or it may rear its head in friendships, marriages, or trusted relationships. But whenever and wherever betrayal is found, it leaves a trail of brokenness, hurt, and pain. Jesus faced betrayal, so I suppose we will face it in this life as well.

Yet the story of Jesus does not end with betrayal, and neither does yours. Regardless of the pain and hurt, God’s grace can write a different story.

Jesus understood the sting of being abandoned and deceived by someone he loved. He knew the sorrow of false accusations, rejection, and injustice. But he chose the path of grace anyway. Even as he suffered on the cross, he prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34).

That may be the most important lesson of all.

When betrayal enters our lives, our first instinct is often anger, retaliation, or bitterness. We want justice. We want explanations. We want those who hurt us to feel the pain they caused. Yet the example of Christ points us toward a different response, one characterized by grace.

Not because betrayal is acceptable. Not because wounds are insignificant. Not because trust should never be rebuilt carefully. But because refusing to forgive allows the offense to continue controlling our hearts.

Forgiveness is not pretending the hurt never happened. It is releasing our right to revenge and placing justice into God’s hands. It is choosing freedom over bitterness. It is deciding that someone else’s sin will not determine the condition of our own heart and soul.

Our community is filled with people who have experienced betrayal. Friends estranged. Families divided. Relationships strained. Some wounds are fresh. Others are decades old.

What would happen if grace became our first response instead of our last resort?

What would happen if we remembered that every one of us has needed forgiveness at some point in life? What would happen if mercy was extended as freely as criticism, and understanding offered as readily as judgment? Might that change our marriages? Our churches? Our community as a whole?

Betrayal may be part of the human story, but so is redemption. The cross reminds us that even the deepest wounds do not have the final word. God’s grace is greater than our failures, his mercy stronger than our bitterness, and his forgiveness powerful enough to heal even the hurts we never imagined we could overcome.

Betrayal hurts, but grace heals. And in a world where betrayal is far too common, forgiveness and grace are needed now more than ever. Family members, friends, and business associates may be close enough for the kiss of betrayal, but they’re close enough to be forgiven as well. S

IOFTEN TALK ABOUT CHANGE IN MY PIECES HERE. CHANGE IS PART OF THE JOB WE DO AT THE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, HOPEFULLY IN WAYS that make lives better for the people who live in our community, either now or in the future. Among the most obvious changes we have seen in recent years is an increase in retail opportunities in Statesboro. A quick drive down Northside Drive reveals examples in a block or two (e.g., Lowe’s, Harbor Freight, Jim and Nick’s, Texas Roadhouse, Dutch Bros., and the upcoming Raising Cane’s). I frequent this area of town often, and the changes there are amazing to behold for someone who’s lived in Statesboro for over 40 years.

When people find out what I do for a living, their first inclination is often to ask me about whether we’re getting a particular retailer soon. For the first few years after I started in 2010, the first question was usually “can you get our Publix back?” As a matter of fact, one of the first things the Development Authority and Chamber started working on was getting the attention of a Publix or Kroger grocery store. It seemed our community, or at least a loud part of it, wanted to improve our grocery store selection.

The important thing about Publix to us, however, wasn’t just the store and its selections – although the Publix Sub and fried chicken are outstanding! Bringing a Publix to Statesboro indicated our community was becoming a little more…something. A little bigger, a little more active, a little wealthier. It suggested we were becoming more of a target for these types of retailers.

In my time on Georgia Southern’s faculty, I was involved in accreditation and strategic planning activities. It was during these times I began to hear and understand the importance of benchmarking, of looking to our Peers and Aspirants as a way of determining if we were succeeding. We would look at Universities with similar programs and enrollments as Peers, and we would examine institutions who were a little bigger or more successful in certain areas as Aspirants – those Universities that we’d like to become more like.

The Development Authority often benchmarks other communities, comparing ourselves to see how other places are succeeding. And, as we become more active in retail and other business recruitment and support, we consider the types of businesses we’d like to have here which are not yet here. We call these types of businesses “aspirant retail” –

Aspirational Retail

WRITTEN BY BENJY THOMPSON

much as Publix was for us in 2010. Those aspirant retailers might include a Target store, or other business we may see in a larger city, or a more upscale location.

The driving criteria for these businesses is how successful they can be in a particular location. For retailers, it’s how many sales can they make here versus somewhere else. Unfortunately, the data that suggests retail success can be a hindrance to Statesboro-Bulloch County. Our per capita income rates, poverty level, and other demographics make us a difficult sale for some retailers. However, we have to make the case that the data isn’t a good indicator of success here. For example, our financial demographics are substantially affected by the large ratio of college and university students living here. So, we have to make other pitches to retailers, such as the fact Statesboro’s Publix store is one of the most visited in the entire company.

Our move towards more activity with retail and other business support is part of the next iteration of the Development Authority’s strategy, and the evolution of Statesboro-Bulloch County. Aspirational retail is one of the things keeping us on an upward path, along with better and more “livability assets” (parks, recreation facilities, entertainment). We will pursue this primarily through bringing the City of Statesboro’s Business Recruiter Alan Gross on board and continuing to support and leverage the great work he’s been doing. And as we work harder in the retail space, we are confident these efforts will support recruitment of new investments and large businesses, and continued success of our legacy businesses already in Bulloch County.

In the meantime, and as always, we will remind ourselves, our retail community has been very successful for years, for generations even, due to the presence of strong and innovative local retailers. L.A. Waters Furniture & Mattress Center, Walker Pharmacy & Boutique, RJ Pope Men’s & Ladies Apparel and the Sir Shop Men’s Clothing are among the iconic local businesses that have led our community to become a shopping hub in our region. Our hope and our effort will be to continue to build on the legacy of local retail and support even more opportunities for our future. S

THE TAMS LIVE!

Statesboro Downtown Concert Series | Thursday, June 11, 2026 | 7:00 p.m.

BY

Breaking the Silence on Men’s Health

WRITTEN BY JAIME RIGGS

DOWN HERE IN THE SOUTH, WE KNOW A FEW THINGS ABOUT TAKING CARE OF OUR OWN.

THE MEN IN OUR LIVES KEEP OUR ENGINES tuned, our lawns manicured, and our porch swings repaired. They check the oil in the truck, the pressure in the tires, and they always ask our neighbors how they’re doing. But when it comes to their own health, a lot of men have a habit of slamming the door and throwing away the key.

As summer settles in and life moves at its usual fast pace, it’s a good time to have a real, straight-from-the-hip conversation about something some of us would rather leave unmentioned: men’s urological health.

WHEN TOUGHNESS NEEDS A TUNE-UP

Let’s be honest for a minute. For most Southern men, admitting something hurts, or that their bodies aren’t working the way they used to, feels a whole lot like a hit to their pride. Men are taught to be tough, to “walk it off” and never complain. Because of this, conversations about prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, and enlarged prostates gather dust in the corners of our minds, right next to unread instruction manuals.

But hiding from these issues doesn’t make them go away. It just gives them time to grow.

“There’s an unspoken rule among men that talking about ‘down there’ is off-limits, even though these issues affect millions of men every year,” says urologist Thomas Sorbera, M.D. “Erectile dysfunction is incredibly common, and it’s often an early warning sign for underlying cardiovascular issues. And for prostate cancer, early detection is quite literally the difference between life and death.”

The statistics are something we can’t just sweep under the rug. Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in American men. Yet, if caught early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100 percent. Similarly, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)—the medical term for a natural, age-related enlargement of the prostate—affects about half of men by age 60, and up to 90 percent by age 85. It can make a man’s life challenging, causing urinary urgency, frequency, and sleepless nights of pacing the hallway.

DON’T IGNORE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT

As we age, the plumbing system may need a little maintenance. Erectile dysfunction (ED), for instance, shouldn’t just be brushed off as an inevitable part of men getting older.

“ED is a quality-of-life issue, but more importantly, it is often the ‘check engine light’ for heart disease or diabetes,” explains Dr. Sorbera. “Men shouldn’t feel embarrassed to seek medical care. They should consider it an opportunity to improve their well-being and evaluate any other conditions that may need attention — before they become bigger issues.”

While talking with your primary care provider or urologist about ED may be difficult, modern medical interventions or simple lifestyle changes can help restore intimacy, reduce stress, and boost your confidence.

A GAME-CHANGER: NEW THERAPY FOR ENLARGED PROSTATE

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate, makes it difficult to urinate and fully empty the bladder. Unfortunately, many men avoid treatment if surgery is recommended due to concerns about potential side effects.

Fortunately, medical science has hit some home runs in urological care. For men dealing with symptoms of an enlarged prostate, there is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure being used by top urologists called transurethral waterjet ablation or prostatic hydroablation. This procedure uses heat-free, robotic-assisted waterjet technology with real-time ultrasound guidance to precisely remove only the tissue restricting the urethra in order to relieve symptoms – accuracy that helps to avoid the potential for unsettling side effects.

“Waterjet ablation is a total game-changer for BPH care,” says Dr. Sorbera. “Because the waterjet is heat-free, we can target and remove the exact tissue causing the blockage while actively avoiding the sensitive areas that control sexual functionality and continence. It gives men long-lasting relief with significantly fewer sexual side effects.”

The procedure typically takes about an hour in the hospital, and the recovery time is shorter than traditional surgeries, getting you back to fishing, golfing, or sitting on the porch with your loved ones much sooner.*

TIME TO TAKE ACTION

Taking care of your health isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s the smartest, most responsible thing a man can do for himself and his family. Ignoring your symptoms doesn’t make you a tough guy; it just makes things harder on yourself and the people who care about you.

Whether it’s an uncomfortable conversation with your doctor about ED or a screening for prostate cancer, the first step is always the hardest. If you’re experiencing a weak stream, frequent urges to urinate, or any other urological concerns, pick up the phone and make an appointment with your primary care provider or urologist today.

Your health is your greatest asset. It’s time to break the silence and start living well.

*Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment. S

EDITOR'S NOTE:

To learn more about treatment options like waterjet therapy or to find a specialist in your area, visit www.eastgeorgiamedsurgassociates.com/urology-care