Debbie Lurie-Smith

Jones County was having a perfect year without any fatal accidents until August, when fatalities occurred in two separate motorcycle accidents.By November there had been four fatalities, the same number of traffic deaths as 2023.The first fatality of 2024 took place Aug. 10 on Bethlehem Church Road. The time of the accident was estimated at 9 p.m. A report of the accident by Jones...

The popularity of CBD and vaping products (above) is evident in many Jones County convenience stores, with racks and racks of a variety of products. The investigator’s offices at the Jones County Sheriff’s Office were filled with seized items from stores found in violation (below), including all cash on the premises. CONTRIBUTED

Local leaders gather to decide on steps forward in the community branding process.

The Gray Fire Department celebrated accomplishments and recognized the dedication of members at its annual Christmas party, which includes promotions and awards. Fire Chief Keith Eiesle welcomed attendees to the Dec.

Jones County Chief Tax Appraiser Tony George (right) speaks to the Board of Assessors. He also faced tough questions from commissioners in the same room throughout the Fall. FILE PHOTO

Commissioners John Wood, Chairman Chris Weidner, Sam Kitchens and Wendy Vaughn discussed their choices with Gray Councilman David Tufts, Mayor Ed Barbee and Haley Watson. DEBBIE LURIE-SMITH/Staff

Jones County commissioners take their oaths of office from Probate Judge Lewis Patterson.

Legion Commandant Russell Curry (center left) presents a check to Holly and Jeramie Frasure for the benefit of Bellablue Farm and their work training service dogs for veterans. CONTRIBUTED

Jones County Board of Commissioner members take their oaths of office from Probate Judge Lewis Patterson at a work session held prior to their first meeting of 2025, Jan. 7. The 3:30 p.m. ceremony was the first of three sessions, with the final one beginning at 6 p.m. DEBBIE LURIE-SMITH/Staff

A Jones County man received a 20-year sentence for a shooting that took place in 2023, following his guilty plea.Alex McCater Coats was in Jones County Superior Court Jan. 5 to enter his plea to the charge of aggravated assault. He received 20 years with the first four years in confinement with credit for time served from Dec. 19, 2023. The remainder of sentence is to be served on probat...