Linda Bragg Jim Hite wins sixth place in triathlon

Jim Hite took sixth place in age-group 75-79 at the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Duathlon (run/bike/run) Championships held at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C., on Sept. 26. Running and cycling in light to extremely heavy rain with temperatures in the low 60s, Hite covered the 10K (6.2 miles) run/40K (25 miles) bike/5K run in three hours, 13 minutes, and 57 seconds on a course that included the speedway track itself and hilly roads around the Speedway.

Over 700 athletes from 30 countries had signed on to take part in races for elites and professionals as well as age-groupers, but the weather caused a good number of no-shows at the start line. Also, the tough weather conditions and difficult bike course led to several crashes resulting in injuries and a couple of ambulance rides to the hospital.

On Sept. 30, Hite received a Tri-the-Parks first-place series medal in duathlon for winning the 75-79 age group in all four duathlons held at Georgia state parks during the summer. The award was presented at the end-of-season banquet held at the Concourse Athletic Club in Atlanta.

Steve Burke Linda Bragg attends forum

Linda F. Bragg of Millen, a Modern Woodmen of America representative, has completed a five-day educational program at

Modern Woodmen's home office in Rock Island, Ill.

The program focused on comprehensive financial services for families and small businesses. Using a computer software program, participants also studied the impact of social security benefits and inflation on a client's financial plan. In addition, attendees learned the products and processes to incorporate mutual funds and variable products, where appropriate, when evaluating financial needs.

Pvt. Brianna Joiner graduates basic

combat training

Army National Guard Pvt. Brianna M. Joiner has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and field training exercises.

She is the daughter of Georgina Joiner of Perkins Greenfork Road, Millen, and sister of April Harrison of Dublin.

Joiner is a 2009 graduate of Jenkins County High School.

Steve Burke speaks to Millen Rotary Club

Steve Burke presented a program to the Millen Rotary Club on Oct. 7 on the Civil War Sharp Shooters. (Photo contributed)