Sarahlyn Joines 2013/14 Marching Chiefs Drum Major

Sarahlyn Joines, the Eastman Examiner’s Assistant Editor and Grammar Guru , has been chosen to lead the 2013/14 season of the Dodge County High School’s Marching Chiefs Band as Drum Major.

Sarahlyn began her band career in the Sixth Grade playing clarinet at Dodge County Middle School, under the teachings of Leanne McMichen. Because of her older brother’s role in the High School Band, she spent many hours acquainting herself with the Marching Chiefs’ lifestyle.

Naturally, she continued her band career in high school, under the leadership of Band Director Bob Clardy and Assistant Band Director Quint Bush.

In the 10th and 11th grades, Sarahlyn served as the clarinet section leader. She competed in tryouts at the end of last school year and was selected to serve as Drum Major. In June 2013, she spent a week at the University of Georgia’s prestigious Drum Major Band Camp. The skills she obtained there, are now being put into practice, as the Marching Chiefs ready themselves for their first show.

When asked about her new role, Sarahlyn said, “I’m sad that this is my last year in band, but I see great potential and pray that I can help lead my band to greatness. The only advice I have to give is to never let anything stand in the way of your dreams. Having had four knee surgeries, severe asthma, and a 40% hearing loss, I was told I should never be able to do many things, including marching band. Now, I’m Drum Major and ready to set new goals for myself. Never Give Up!!!”

Sarahlyn is the daughter of Jimmy and Susan Joines of Eastman, granddaughter of Jim and Sandy Joines of McRae and the late Russell and Sara Prickett, also of McRae. We are all so proud of her.

The uniform was designed by Sarahlyn herself and was handmade by her mother Susan Joines and cousin Patti Walker of McRae