The Jenkins County times. (Millen, Ga.) 2023-current, August 30, 2023, Image 1
Cjty Cj'oJt on the Page 2 Page 3 Page 8 EAGLE NOTES Page 4 • MILLEN • PERKINS • RED HILL • SCARBORO • BUTTS • EMMALANE • THRIFT • BIRDSVILLE • FOUR POINTS • Vol l No 26 August 30, 2023 Quality News That Affects You Millen, Georgia $1.25 SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL Motorcycle Accident on South Herndon Road Lands Driver in Hospital with Serious Injuries By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times A late-night motorcycle ride took a distressing turn for Loren W. Buckner of Grovetown, Georgia, last Tuesday, August 22, as a loss of control led to a crash on South Herndon Road, resulting in Buckner sustaining a major chest injury. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. near the intersection of Bullhole Road in Jenkins County. Buckner, 47, was southbound on South Herndon Road, navigating the darkened stretch of asphalt on his 2004 Yamaha motorcycle when the situation took a perilous turn. According to reports, he lost control of the motorcycle, veering onto the east shoulder of the roadway. Travelling approximately 130 feet after losing control, Buckner's trajectory culminated in a collision with a tree. The impact with the tree caused significant damage to both the motorcycle and Buckner himself. Despite the severity of the collision, he managed to walk to a nearby residence and requested assistance. Emergency services were alerted, and paramedics swiftly responded to the scene. Buckner, who had sustained a major chest injury as a result of the crash, recounted the details of the incident to the medical responders. He informed them that he had remained on the motorcycle until it eventually came to a halt. Following the initial assessment and stabilization by the paramedics, Buckner was transported to AU Medical for further evaluation and treatment. The extent of his injuries and his current condition have not been disclosed at this time. The circumstances surrounding the crash are under investigation by local authorities. Factors contributing to the loss of control and subsequent collision remain under scrutiny. Law enforcement officials are expected to assess elements such as road conditions, potential mechanical issues, and any external factors that might have played a role in the accident. This unfortunate incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with nighttime motorcycle rides. Reduced visibility and potential hazards on the road can create challenging conditions for riders. The incident also underscores the importance of safety measures and caution when operating motorcycles, particularly during hours of limited visibility. Four Mayoral Candidates Set for Lively Municipal Election in November By Joe Brady, Editor far The Times The qualifying period for the highly anticipated municipal electioninNovemberhasofficially concluded, revealing an engaging lineup of candidates ready to vie for leadership positions within the city. With the emergence of four distinct mayoral candidates and opposition to several district incumbents, the electoral landscape is primed for a spirited democratic showdown. In the mayoral race, the stage is set for an intriguing competition as Mike R. Dann, Terry Hearn, and Giovanni R. Shumake challenge the incumbent, A. King Rocker. Each candidate brings a unique perspective and platform to the table, promising a robust discourse on issues that matter most to the community. The presence of multiple contenders for the mayoral position signifies the community's engagement and desire for change. From local governance to urban development, each candidate aims to bring their vision to fruition and secure a prosperous future for the city's residents. Notably, the election fervor extends beyond the mayoral race. In District 1, incumbent Robin Scott faces opposition as Stephen Thompson and Joel Carter, Sr., have successfully qualified. Meanwhile, in District 2, Shanelle Carr is gearing up to challenge incumbent Darrel Clifton. This contest offers voters a choice between continuity and change, as Carr puts forth her ideas to shape the district's future trajectory. As the election approaches, citizens are reminded of their civic duty to participate in the democratic process. To ensure that their voices are heard, residents are encouraged to verify their voter status. They can conveniently do so by visiting the official government website at georgia.gov/register-vote. By confirming their eligibility, citizens can contribute to the vitality of their city and make an informed decision at the ballot box. The November municipal election is poised to be a landmark event for the city, one that will determine its direction for the years to come. With a dynamic field of mayoral candidates and competitive district races, the city's future is in the hands of its engaged and empowered citizens. For further updates and information on the candidates, residents are encouraged to stay tuned to The Jenkins County Times and community forums. Editor’s Note: Dr. G.R. Shumake has resigned his District One City Council seat to qualify as a mayoral candidate. Jenkins County Elementary School Calls for Parent Volunteers to Foster "Great Readers" By Joe Brady, Editor far The Times Jenkins County Elementary School (JCES) is reaching out to parents with an exciting invitation to participate in their "Grow Great Readers" initiative. This engaging program aims to enhance the reading experience for students by involving parents as guest readers in their child's homeroom class. JCES recognizes the vital role of parents in fostering a love for reading and hopes to create a collaborative environment that celebrates literature. As part of the "Grow Great Readers" program, JCES will randomly select one parent each month to be a guest reader in their child's homeroom class. The selected parent will have the honor of reading a specially chosen book to the class, contributing to a shared reading experience that can inspire and excite young minds. Jenkins County Elementary School is See READERS page 6 Polls Take Notice After Johnson County Victory By Brad Asbury, Sports Editor for The Times One sportswriter had Jenkins County ranked #3 in an early preseason poll. Other polls, including Max Prep had the team just outside the top 10. Locally, fans knew how special this team could be. Friday night, the team traveled to Johnson County a team that finished in the final four in the GHSA State Playoffs last season and was a preseason top 10 in every poll. In the end, the War Eagles were victorious in a come-from- behind victory winning 28-26. Max Preps, in their latest rankings, propelled the War Eagles from outside the top 10 all the way to number 5 in the state rankings. Georgia High School Football Daily, part of the Atlanta Journal Constitution ranked the War Eagles number 10. They made note that this is the first time since 1999 that Jenkins County has been ranked in the AJC/GHSF Daily Poll. In addition, GHSF Daily will be at Jenkins County High School in the days ahead naming the Jenkins County War Eagles the “Team of the Week. The Jenkins County Times will have all the details on Facebook when this story breaks and in next week’s edition of Jenkins County Times Sports. Community Youth Hip-Hop Event Brings Uniting Message of Faith and Fun Oak Hill, West Millen, Connections, and Millen Baptist Youth Pastors Collaborate to Host Unforgettable Evening By Christian Walton Contributor for The Times Jenkins County — In a remarkable display of unity and creativity, youth pastors from Oak Hill, West Millen, Connections, and Millen Baptist churches in Jenkins County joined forces to organize an engaging community-wide youth hip-hop event. The event took place last Wednesday at the Pal Theater, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of young individuals eager to experience an evening of music, fellowship, and faith. The driving force behind this spirited gathering were Ashley and Branden Kinard, Patrick and Heather Irvan, Cam Wiggins, and Christian See HIP HOP page 6 The War Eagles are now ranked in the top 10 by two separate state polls. Max Preps has them ranked #5 and the AJC/GHSF Daily Poll has the War Eagles at #10! Photo by Christina Coleman. JOIN US AND DONATE POWERADE L TO JENKINS COUNTY SPORTS r* Local Living „2 Faith & Family „3 Perspectives ..4 Lunch Menu ...8 Obits ... 5 Sports ..9-10 News Across Georgia „7