About The Jenkins County times. (Millen, Ga.) 2023-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 8, 2023)
Page 8 - Wednesday, November 8, 2023 The Jenkins County Times j enkinsc ountytimes .com Painting Party Delights Ladies at the VFW Hut Bv Sarah Saxon, Reporter for The Times The VFW I [ut on Community Drive was filled with laughter, creativity, and camaraderie on Saturday, October 28, as several ladies gathered for a delightful painting party organized by the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. The attendees were greeted with a plethora of painting options, allowing them to choose from fall. Thanksgiving, and Christmas-themed designs. Each participant was given a canvas and a palette of vibrant colors, transforming the room into a lively studio buzzing with artistic energy. The atmosphere was not just limited to artistic pursuits; the array of treats provided the perfect accompaniment. Among the attendees were Shelley Smalley Wolfe, Jessica Wolfe, and Ann Smalley, who enthusiastically embraced the creative process, painting with passion and enthusiasm. Nikki Nelson, and Laura Howard, also showcased their artistic talents, adding to the vibrant and colorful ambiance of the event. The event's success can be attributed to the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary's dedication to fostering a sense of community and creativity among local residents. Laura Howard, one of the organizers, encouraged those interested in joining the ALA or participating in future painting parties to reach out. She can be contacted at 912- 692-5991 providing a valuable resource for anyone keen on getting involved in these engaging and artistic gatherings. For those who missed this event, there is undoubtedly anticipation building for the next painting party, promising another evening of artistic exploration and community bonding. The American Legion Ladies Auxiliary is open to both Jenkins and Screven counties. JCHS Wins Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award During halftime (from left to right) Planters EMC Assistant General Manager Norman Williams and Planters EMC Director Horace Weathers by, III present the GHSA Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award trophy to JCHS Principal Rob Gray and JCHS Athletic Director Chuck Sanders. (Photo credit: Whitney D. Zeagler) By: Randy Hill, Special Contributor by The Times High school students face a multitude of challenges from navigating their future paths to balancing academics and extracurricular activities. For those involved in sports, the pressure extends beyond the classroom with a spotlight on their actions both on and off the field. In Georgia, high schools are committed to nurturing these student-athletes, ensuring they not only excel in their sports but also embody sportsmanship and class. The Georgia High School Association (GHSA) and Georgia Electric Membership Cooperatives, including Planters Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) recognize the leaders of tomorrow with the Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award. The awards are presented annually to GHSA-member high schools with a winner in each of the 64 regions from the eight classifications. “Congratulations to all of the region winners of the GHSA Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award for 2022-2023,” says Dr. Robin Hines, GHSA Executive Director. “It is an honor for these member schools to be selected by their regions for this award. The characteristics of good sportsmanship are critical to the development of our young people as they transition into productive adults. The GHSA applauds our schools on this accomplishment and appreciates Georgia’s EMCs for their support of this outstanding recognition program.” Planters EMC Assistant General Manager Norman Williams and Planters EMC Director Horace Weathersby, III, presented the Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award to Jenkins County High School Athletic Director Chuck Sanders and Jenkins County High School Principal Rob Gray at halftime during a recent home football game. Introduced in 2006, the Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award program reinforces GHSA’s philosophy which states: “Student athletes, coaches, spectators, and all others associated with high school activity programs should adhere to the fundamental values of respect, fairness, honesty and responsibility.” Schools such as Jenkins County High School have shown exemplary sportsmanship across a variety of athletics, ranging from athletes to spectators. The Award also extends to anyone involved in the athletic event, which honors the school and is a tribute to the entire community. The directors and employees of Planters EMC congratulate Jenkins County High School for receiving the Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award. Planters EMC is a member-owned cooperative providing electricity and related services to 12,900 members in Bulloch, Burke, Effingham, Emanuel, Jenkins, Richmond and Screven counties. * JENKINS ^ COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM Historic Welcome Center Celebrates Its Rich Legacy By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times The Sylvania Welcome Center, the oldest state visitor center in the United States, continues to receive recognition and accolades for its outstanding services and unique offerings. Recently, it was nominated for the prestigious title of "Retail Center of the Year," and its manager, Jessica Godbee, was honored with the "Customer Service Award" by the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites. Since its opening in 1962, the Sylvania Welcome Center has been a beacon of hospitality and a testament to the enduring importance of showcasing Georgia's culture, history, and hospitality. This iconic landmark has become a must-visit destination for travelers and locals alike. Jessica Godbee, who has been the dedicated manager of the center, is at the forefront of its success. She, along with assistant manager Justin Brannen, welcomes an average of 200 visitors per day. Their commitment to providing top- notch customer service and promoting Georgia's local products has not gone unnoticed. The center proudly offers a variety of Georgia Grown products, including magnolia loom t-shirts made from 100% Bulloch County cotton. These unique shirts come with a QR code that allows customers to view a photo of the exact field where the cotton was grown. Additionally, visitors can explore award-winning Woodpecker Trail olive oil from a 6th-generation Glenville family farm, moonshine pickles, Stuckey's items, local honey, and more. Surprisingly, the most requested item at the center is not a product but rather good old-fashioned paper maps. Jessica explains, "Younger people, especially, say they want to see a bigger picture than what's offered on their phone screens." This demand for traditional maps reflects the timeless appeal of physical guides in an increasingly digital world. Jessica is a native of Burke County and began her illustrious career with the visitor center in 2007, while Justin joined the team in 2018. Their dedication and passion for their work have contributed significantly to the center's continued success. Situated along U.S. Highway 301, the Sylvania Welcome Center is a living testament to the vision of Governor Ernest Vandiver, who believed that tourism could enhance Georgia's image and serve as a catalyst for economic growth. This visitor center predates the interstate highway system and once served as the "short route" to Florida for visitors from coastal states. Nestled behind the center is a charming park complete with picnic tables and grills, providing a serene and picturesque spot for visitors to enjoy. Notably, the Sylvania Welcome Center is the only visitor center in the state that still offers free Coca-Cola products and Georgia Peanuts. Visitors are even known to snap pictures with "Cousin Jimmy," a cardboard cutout of former President and fellow Georgian, Jimmy Carter, adding a touch of local charm to the experience. As the Sylvania Welcome Center continues to uphold its legacy and receive accolades for its contributions to Georgia's tourism, it remains an enduring symbol of Southern hospitality and a gateway to the state's rich history and culture. Name Address Phone Number Mail To: Jenkins Co. Times P.O. Box 1448 Mi Men, Ga. 30442 Or Call: (912)451-NEWS (6397 or (478)401-5007 $24.95 1 year $45.00 2 year 1 year outside of Ga $42.00 Hydrant Flushing and Flow Testing Planned in Millen By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times The City of Millen Utility Department has announced a vital initiative to improve water quality and maintain the efficiency of its water supply system. From November 14th to November 16th, the utility department will be conducting hydrant flushing and flow testing throughout the town. The primary objective of this operation is to remove settlement build-up and harmless impurities that may have accumulated in the water distribution system over time. Wnile these impurities do not pose any health risks, flushing the hydrants and conducting flow tests is essential to ensure clean, safe, and high-quality water for the residents of Millen. During this three-day period, residents and businesses in Millen may experience temporary inconveniences such as discolored water and lowered water pressure. To minimize these disruptions, the City of Millen Utility Department recommends that residents refrain from doing laundry between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on these specific days. This precaution will help prevent any potential staining of clothes due to discolored water. If residents have any questions or concerns regarding this operation or its impact on their water supply, the Utility Department is available to assist. You can contact the Utility Department at 478-982-6100 for any inquiries or to report any issues related to the hydrant flushing and flow testing. City officials encourage residents to be understanding and patient during this necessary maintenance process. The efforts to maintain and improve the water supply system will ultimately contribute to a cleaner and safer water supply for all residents of Millen.
