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Vol 1 No 47 January 31, 2024
Quality News That Affects You
IMillen, Georgia $1.25
Tragic House Fire Claims
Life in Jenkins County
The War Eagles tackled a Dooly County player during the game
that resulted in the fines levied by the GHSA. Photo by Danielle
McBride Davis.
By Joe Brady, Editor
for
The Times
A devastating house fire on Marie Road has ended the life of one and sent another to the Joseph M. Still
Burn Center in Augusta. The mid-morning call came into emergency personnel on Monday, Jan. 22. The
tragedy leaves the community in mourning and emergency responders grappling with the tragic loss of
life. Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames engulfing the side of the
structure.
Emergency responders from Engine 51 swiftly deployed two 1 3/4 hose lines and courageously entered
the burning structure to contain the fire. The occupants on the scene informed firefighters that a 53-year-
old male, bedridden, was inside the residence. He has been identified as Michael Anthony Hill.
Delores Bunch, who also resided in the home, recounted the harrowing moments when she attempted to
rescue the bedridden individual. Bunch revealed that upon entering the bedroom, she discovered a space
heater turned over on its side, with flames rapidly spreading. Despite her brave efforts to assist Mr. Hill,
smoke and fire overwhelmed her, rendering her unable to rescue him.
The fire personnel, battling the intense blaze, successfully extinguished the flames, allowing them
to locate the body of Mr. Hill. Firefighters diligently waited for the arrival of the Fire Marshal, who
subsequently oversaw the removal of Mr. Hill's body from the scene.
In the fire's aftermath, Delores Bunch, who showed great bravery, was transported to the bum center
in Augusta by EMS for medical attention. The extent of her injuries and current condition remains under
medical care.
The entire community is left grappling with the loss of a life and the somber aftermath of a residential fire.
The heroic efforts of the emergency responders are acknowledged, with their commitment to containment
and rescue during the chaotic and dangerous situation. The fire is currently under investigation.
Local Hero
Marie Taylor
Honored for
Transformative
Dog Training
Program
By Joe Brady, Editor
for
The Times
GHSA Addresses
Complaints Against
Dooly County
By Joe Brady, Editor
for
The Times
The conclusion to a story reported in the Jenkins County Times on
November 21 has been unveiled, as Dr. J.P. Heam, Superintendent of
Jenkins County Schools, revealed the resolution at the monthly Board
of Education meeting.
"The Georgia High School Association (GHSA) has addressed our
complaint," Dr. Heam explained. A letter from Dr. Robin Bines, the
executive director of the GHSA, stated, "Your concerns were presented
to Dooly County on November 20, 2023, and penalties were given to
Dooly County on November 27, 2023, based on sportsmanship and
institutional control."
The GHSA's swift response reflects their commitment to upholding
the standards of sportsmanship and maintaining institutional control
within member schools.
A glimpse into Dooly County's history with the GHSA, as reported
on their website, reveals a series of fines. In 2022, they were fined
three times, twice in 2023, and now, once again, due to the recent
incident involving Jenkins County.
The 2022 infractions included failure to meet conditions of game
contracts ($250 each) on Sept. 14,2022, and Oct. 10, 2022, in softball.
On Oct. 31,2022, they were fined $250 for a coach or player ejection.
In 2023, fines were imposed on January 26 for unsporting behavior
by players, coaches, or administrators ($750) and on Feb. 27 for
players fighting ($500).
The specific amount of fines related to the incidents involving
Jenkins County will not be disclosed until the end of the year. Dr.
Hearn emphasized, "Disciplinary actions have been enforced, so if
we have another problem with Dooly County, the incidents have been
documented."
The Jenkins County Board of Education remains vigilant in
ensuring that the principles of sportsmanship and institutional control
are upheld, and that disciplinary measures are taken to address any
violations. The documentation of incidents serves as a proactive
approach to maintain a fair and respectful athletic environment for all
schools involved.
Marie Taylor, a Jenkins County native, has recently
been recognized for her outstanding contributions to
the dog training program at Core Civic Correctional
Center. Taylor was presented with the Courage and
Distinguished Service Award in acknowledgment of
her remarkable efforts in implementing and nurturing
the training program.
In her third year spearheading the
initiative, Taylor's dedication has
resulted in the successful adoption of
over 120 dogs. The program not only
benefits the dogs but has a positive
impact on both the facility's staff and
inmates.
"This is our third year offering this
program in this facility. We have
adopted over 120 dogs. The program
benefits the staff, inmates, and the
rescue," Taylor explained.
Currently, 21 dogs are enrolled
in the program, with each canine
undergoing training in over 13
different commands. Comprehensive
training includes essential skills such
as potty training, leash training, and
crate training, ensuring that the dogs are well-prepared
for their future homes.
To foster a strong bond between the inmates and the
canines, each dog is kenneled beside their trainer in
their beds. The unique approach involves the animals
staying with their trainer twenty-four hours a day for
10-12 weeks before being adopted out to loving homes.
"I don't know who benefits the most, us, the inmates,
or the dogs. We all help each other," Taylor concluded,
emphasizing the reciprocal positive impact of the
program.
To celebrate Taylor's
remarkable achievements,
a luncheon was hosted
in her honor at Rounds
on Winthrope. The event,
organized by her sisters
Linda Jackson and Joan
Brown, brought together
community members and
family to express gratitude
for Taylor's compassionate
work in transforming the
lives of both inmates and
dogs through the power of
training and care.
Taylor's commitment to
making a difference in her
community shines through
the success of the dog training program, showcasing
how initiatives rooted in compassion and collaboration
can create a positive ripple effect for all involved.
Bryan Lanier, Jr.: A Star
Student Shining Bright
with Aspirations
By Debbie Hearn, Reporter
for
l i 11 : Times
Jenkins County native, Bryan
Lanier, Jr., the son of Bryan and
Patricia Lanier, has been named
the 2023-2024 Star Student,
marking a moment of pride
for his family and the entire
community.
Bryan's
academic
achievements
and involvement
in various
pursuits have
rightfully
earned him
this prestigious
recognition.
Bryan's passion
for learning is
evident in his
favorite subjects,
chemistry and
math.
As a dedicated
student, he
actively
contributes
to the school
community by
being a member
of both the Tommy Johnson & Bryan Lanier
Science Club
and the FFA (Future Farmers
of America). His multifaceted
engagement showcases not only
his academic prowess but also
his commitment to exploring
diverse fields of interest.
Looking towards the future,
See STAR STUDENT Page 11
Bryan aspires to attend Georgia
Southern University, although,
at this moment, he remains
undecided about his major. The
uncertainty adds an element
of excitement to his journey,
highlighting
the potential
for growth
and
discovery in
his academic
pursuits.
In a
heartfelt
decision,
Bryan chose
Mr. Tommy
Johnson
as his Star
Teacher. Mr.
Johnson, a
seasoned
educator
with over
20+ years
of teaching
experience,
shared
insights
into his
educational
journey. A graduate of Burke
County High School in 1988,
he pursued his higher education
at Georgia Southern University,
obtaining a BA in History in
1992 and an MEd in Social
Sciences in 2000. When asked
