About The Jenkins County times. (Millen, Ga.) 2023-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 29, 2023)
We’re the team “SOLD on being the Difference! amss 912-489-0067 110 S. Zetterower Ave, Statesboro, G A30458 www.greatgarealty.com Mason Davis, i Realtor Jessica Herrmann, • Broker/Owner Amy Cowart, Realtor ^m • MILLEN • PERKINS • RED HILL • SCARBORO • BUTTS • EMMALANE • THRIFT • BIRDSVILLE • FOUR POINTS • co m 01 Oi o co o co Lf) * SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL Vol 1 No 38 November 29, 2023 Quality News That Affects You JVfillen, Georgia $1.25 Burnman and LaSwan distribute the turkey and hams at Monday’s giveaway. Photo by Sarah Saxon Amidst the distribution of hams and turkeys, the Spells family and their helpers informed each car passing by about the Miracle Temple House of the True and Living God's initiative of dispensing free produce to the community. Acting on this information, approximately 136 bags filled with a diverse array of fresh produce were generously handed out to those directed to the location by the Spells family. Elijah Coney, the food bank manager at the church, shed light on the motivation behind this generous giveaway. Coney mentioned that the church had received a donation of food from Golden Harvest that had a limited shelf life, which wouldn't endure until the end of the month. In a gesture of proactive community support, they chose to distribute the produce to individuals who availed themselves at the designated location. The convergence of these efforts not only ensured that families and individuals received traditional Thanksgiving staples from Spells Backhoe Services but also provided an additional bounty of fresh produce, extending the support and blessings within the Millen community. The selfless actions of both the Spells family and the Miracle Temple House of the True and Living God exemplify the power of collective goodwill and communal support, reaffirming the bonds within the community. Norfolk Southern Awards City of Millen $54,000 Grant By Joe Brady, Editor The Times Millen — Norfolk Southern has generously awarded the City of Millen a Safety-First Grant amounting to $54,000. This grant is designated for the purchase of crucial Public Safety Equipment, enhancing the city's ability to maintain and improve public safety services. The funds will be utilized to address two pressing needs within the City of Millen's Public Safety Department. Firstly, the city plans to replace its Dispatch Radio System, which was recently rendered inoperable due to a lightning strike. This radio system serves as a critical communication link between the city dispatcher and the police and fire departments, ensuring swift and coordinated responses to emergencies. Secondly, the grant will contribute to the replacement of a computer server for the Millen Police Department. The existing server has reached a point where it can no longer be updated, posing potential challenges in maintaining an efficient and up- to-date police force. The new server is expected to significantly enhance the department's technological infrastructure. Expressing gratitude forNorfolk Southern's support, Mayor King Rocker acknowledges the positive impact this grant will have on the Public Safety Department. Mayor King Rocker emphasized the importance of such contributions in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the city's police and fire personnel. The upgraded Dispatch Radio System, funded by the grant, will enable the city dispatcher to simultaneously monitor multiple conversations, leading to more efficient dispatching of personnel during emergencies. This improvement is a vital step towards bolstering the city's emergency response capabilities. Mayor King Rocker's persistent efforts in reaching out to Norfolk Southern's governmental relations advisor, Connor Poe, over the past year played a crucial role in securing this grant. The ongoing communication and collaboration between the City of Millen and Norfolk Southern underscores the commitment to fostering positive relationships for the betterment of the community. In a statement, Mayor King Rocker expressed his appreciation for Norfolk Southern's continued support, stating, "The Safety-First Grant from Norfolk Southern is a testament to their commitment to community safety. We are grateful for their generous contribution, which will undoubtedly enhance the capabilities of our Public Safety Department and improve the overall safety of our residents." The City of Millen looks forward to implementing these upgrades promptly and anticipates the positive impact they will have on the city's ability to respond effectively to public safety concerns. The collaboration between Norfolk Southern and the City of Millen stands as an example of how private and public entities can work together for the greater good of the community. Spells Backhoe Extends Thanksgiving Blessings to Millen Community By Sarah Saxon, Reporter far The Times In a heartwamiing display of community spirit and generosity, Bumian and LaSwan Spells, proprietors of Spells Backhoe Services in Millen, orchestrated a remarkable Thanksgiving giveaway that drew a massive crowd on Monday, November 20. The streets of Millen were abuzz with anticipation as a substantial crowd congregated, eagerly lining up to partake in the special Thanksgiving blessing orchestrated by the Spells couple, “with the intention of sharing the abundance they've received from the Lord throughout the year, the Spells duo decided to give back to their community in a significant way.” Over a hundred hams and seventy-five turkeys were generously distributed among those who patiently waited in line, their faces reflecting gratitude for the unexpected gesture. The palpable excitement revealed the high value placed on these items, particularly the hams, considering the soaring prices in the market. The event not only showcased the benevolence of Spells Backhoe Services but also received support from Mt. Olive Church and Jenkins County Times. Bumian and LaSwan Spells' act of kindness resonated deeply with the attendees, underscoring the essence of Thanksgiving - a time for giving, sharing, and fostering a sense of togetherness within the community. As the recipients left, laden with their Thanksgiving provisions, the air was filled not only with gratitude but also a profound sense of unity and goodwill. The impact of this initiative extended beyond tangible gifts, leaving an enduring impression on the spirit of the community. The event stands as a testament to the transfomiative power of generosity and communal support, reflecting the essence of the holiday season - a time for coming together and spreading joy and blessings to those around us. “We are so appreciative of all the support we have received. We gave out over 120 ham and turkeys. Next year, we are planning to move the giveaway to the school parking lot.” Bumian explains. The heartfelt efforts of Spells Backhoe Services serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that goodwill and generosity can have on fostering a stronger, more unified community. Updates at Jenkins County Recreation Department By Shakenya Adams, Special Contributor for The Times We Are proud to announce that PARKS* JCRD now offers Online Registration. Due to the holidays, registrations for Youth basketball for 10U and 12U will be extended until Friday, December 1, 2023. We are doing things a little different with our seasons. We are now offering pre- season training days to help our athletes explore the sport(s) we are offering and to understand the positions and basic fundamentals for that particular sport. Any parent/guardian that wishes to sign up their children please visit our website at JENKINSCOUNTYREC.COM The fee for youth athletes who register by Dec 1st will be $40. Anyone who registers after will have a $10 late fee. Adults who wish to play in our 3 on 3 Half-Court leagues can also register on the website listed above. JCRD would also like to give a special thanks to U.S. Silica, East Ga Tree Service, M.I. Metals, Eagle Pharmacy, Planters EMC, A&A Bus Line, and East Ga Constmction for sponsoring our 2023 Football teams. We would also like to recognize and thank the following Coaches because without their hard work and dedication this season would not have been so successful. Tyler Kirkland, Chris Oglesby, Marty Bowen, Will Tyler, Keith Washington, Pershawn Jeff, Joel Carter, Lakeisha Williams, Drew Allen, Jakestal Lee, Joshua Graham Sr, Gerald Graham, TC Herrington, and Chris Crockett. As always thank you for all you do. Miracle Temple distributes fresh produce for holiday By Sarah Saxon, Reporter for THE TIMES h . w '^1 i ■ 1 I E wWKii' i I
