Community supports Peach Co. deputies by selling ribbons

BYRON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Byron Tire Company’s fixing cars on a Monday morning just like they always do.

“It’s just another day–but again, it’s not another day,” said owner Chris Hodges.

But trying to mend hearts–that’s something new.

“You never know if they’re coming in to get a tire repaired, their oil changed or if they want a ribbon.”

Hodges owns the shop.

His buddy Caleb Brown thought of the idea to sell black and blue bows to help Sgt. Patrick Sondron and Deputy Daryl Smallwood’s families.

“We’ve got people from Macon, Centerville, Warner Robins, not just Byron, Fort Valley, Peach County per say–that are coming out and glad to buy the bows and wanting to have them and show our support for our community,” said Hodges.

With a simple 10 dollars, you can help the Smallwoods and the Sondrons–something Byron Tire Company customer Mark Goodman is thankful to do.

“It’s nothing that’s going to replace what’s happened, but their future’s being built from this, and what a great way to have that to be able to start,” said Goodman.

The community suffers right alongside the families for two men who were well known.

“Everything you hear about them, there’s nothing negative being said about either one of the guys,” said Goodman.

And that’s why Hodges says they’re so deserving–the sacrifice was huge.

“I hope that the support for our law enforcement continues–not just here, but nationally,” said Hodges.

“It’s a heartbroken community right now. But with everyone coming together like this, it’s just a natural mending for everyone,” said Goodman.

A mending for the heart that bleeds black and blue.

If you want a bow, head over to Brown’s Facebook page–you’ll need to add him as a friend.

Also, you can buy one at Byron Tire Company at 299 New Dunbar Street in Byron.