Feb 2, 2017 — Gwinnett Daily Post

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Former ExxonMobil CEO new secretary of state • 5A

POWER MOVES Gwinnett sends 22 players to Power 5 schools • Sports, 8A

Gwinnett Daily Post THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017

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Vol. 47, No. 82

GCPS gets national credit for case study

BY KEITH FARNER

keith.farner@gwinnettdailypost.com

Gwinnett County Public Schools is receiving national attention for a test that it first piloted in 2014 to measure how students perform in a global economy using international benchmarks.

A case study was released this week from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development to monitor students’ academic outcomes and inform shifts in policy and teacher practice to meet See GCPS, Page 7A

Mill Creek kicker Brenton King, center, has a laugh with teammates during a National Signing Day event at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. King signed to play football with Georgia Tech. (Staff Photos: Jason Braverman)

Just peachy

BY PAUL THOMAS

Georgia colleges land fair share of Gwinnett prospects on Signing Day

NORCROSS

Cops: Teen to be charged as adult in murder

paul.thomas @gwinnettdailypost.com

There is no such thing as an unhappy parent on National Signing Day. But the parents of 32 Gwinnett County seniors may be a little happier than the rest this year. Of the 144 Gwinnett football players who signed football scholarships on Wednesday, 30 will be staying in the Peach State for college.

Georgia State led the way with five signees and a preferred walkon. Reinhardt University signed five, Georgia Tech had four, Mercer had three and Georgia had one signee and two walk-ons.

“I’m excited about that because that hopefully at least lets me go watch them play here or there whenever I have an opportunity,” said Mill Creek head coach Shannon Jarvis, who had six players sign scholarships to Georgia schools. “A lot of these kids had opportunities at maybe a higher level school on paper out-of-state, that elected to stay in-state. I think that’s a tribute to the family atmosphere we have at Mill Creek. They come from good families and they want to be surrounded by people in-state.

“I think it’s a reflection of that, and I think it’s a reflection, too, of how good our in-state programs are becoming with Mercer, Reinhardt, Kennesaw State, Georgia

Former Gwinnett principal John Campbell serves as a facilitator for the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development test in Gwinnett County Public Schools, which measures students’ academic outcomes and inform shifts in policy and teacher practice to meet students’ learning needs. (File Photo)

BY CAILIN O’BRIEN cailin.obrien@gwinnettdailypost.com

North Gwinnett’s Chris Sibilia has a laugh while talking to reporters during Wednesday’s National Signing Day event at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. Sibilia has signed to play football with Georgia State University.

State, all those schools. It’s great football.”

Georgia State, with the help of former Buford head coach Jess Simpson, who will recruit Gwinnett for the Panthers moving forward as the defensive line coach, hauled in some talented players on the defensive side of the ball

in Mill Creek linebacker Victor Heyward, Dacula defensive back Jaylon Jones and Grayson defensive lineman Steven Banks, who agreed to a preferred walkon spot.

Offensively, GSU added See SIGNEES, Page 3A

MORE ONLINE Visit gwinnettdailypost.com for a photo gallery.

MORE INSIDE See ‘Power Moves’...........8A ‘New Signing day’............8A See complete lists of signees.....................10/11A

A 15-year-old accused of choking his mother to death Tuesday night has been charged as an adult with her murder, police said.

Detectives confirmed that Norcross teen Patrick Gibson has mental health issues, said Gwinnett police Cpl. Deon Washington. He was arguing with his mother, Faith Haynes, 47, when he allegedly killed her around 5 p.m. in their Oakwood Vista Apartment.

Haynes’ nephew found her body when he returned home that night. Gibson had already fled the apartment.

“A short time later, he was detained by police near the front of the apartment complex,” Washington said.

Investigators taped off the the area around Gibson and Haynes’ apartment building. The flurry of crime-scene activity brought out several concerned neighbors, who said they weren’t expecting a murder in the relatively quiet complex.

“When I saw it, I was like ‘What?’ I’m shocked,” said Sheena Shamna, who has lived in the complex for almost two years.

Gibson is being held in the Rockdale Regional Youth Detention Center. He’s charged as an adult with felony murder and aggravated assault.

Lanier High receives nearly $18K for commitment to STEM education Foundation grant will be used to establish a clusterwide robotics tournament at Lanier Middle. Lanier High was Lanier High School’s selected to receive the grants sustained momentum toward based on its academic reputaSTEM education received a tion and top performances by rocket boost of cash recently students in computer science in the form of a pair of grants and robotics competitions, from the State Farm Founda- as well as its use of products tion and Nordson Foundasuch as Autodesk Engineertion. ing software.

The grant from State Farm State Farm gave $15,000, will be used to bolster the ro- and Nordson gave $2,500.

Teacher Mike Reilly said Students and teachers from Lanier’s Center for Design and botics program at the school’s Technology celebrate receiving nearly $18,000 in grants to Center for Design and one reason for State Farm to be used for STEM and robotics programs. (Special Photo) Technology. The Nordson be involved is to connect fuBY KEITH FARNER

keith.farner @gwinnettdailypost.com

ture employees to them, and 30 Lanier students visited the company’s headquarters last year. Reilly said they’re also excited to host the State Farm Hackathon, Feb. 24 to 26.

The State Farm money also allows Lanier students to put on community events like the Sugar Hill Maker Fest set for April 22.

For several years, Lanier’s CDAT program, and the cluster as a whole, has received attention and accolades from across the state and country.

Most recently, it was

recognized last year by the Technology Association of Georgia for exemplary instruction.

The CDAT Program is state STEM-certified, and last year White Oak Elementary School became the first statecertified STEM elementary school in Gwinnett. The Lanier cluster previously received the Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Innovation and Transformation Award for its success with STEM classes and project-based learning.

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Prune landscape plants with purpose in mind One of the most important cultural practices for maintaining woody ornamental plants is pruning. It helps to produce attractive, well-formed plants. Pruning is the process of removing plant parts to improve their shape, to reduce plant size, and to remove damaged or diseased parts. Each plant species in the landscape has its unique growth habit and specific pruning requirements.

Proper pruning requires a basic understanding of how plants respond to the process. The terminal bud on the end of the branch secretes a hormone that suppresses the growth of the lateral buds. When removed, the lateral buds and shoots begin to grow.

The most vigorous new growth occurs within six to eight inches below the

Gardening in Gwinnett

Tim Daly pruning cut.

Often, a shrub is pruned by shearing the new growth to control its size and shape. However, the regular shearing results in dense, thick, new growth being produced near the outer portions of the canopy. Less light reaches the interior portions of the plant, leading to sparse foliage with a leggy or hollow appearance which can increase the risk of harm from environmental

stresses and pests. Thinning involves removing an entire shoot or limb to its point of origin on the main branch or lateral branch, while not pruning some of the shoots, which allows for the plant to develop a more natural growth form.

Thinning cuts shorten the branches, improve light penetration and direct the growth of shoots or limbs.

It encourages new growth within interior portions of a shrub, reduces the plant size and creates a denser, more attractive plant.

Often a shrub is overgrown, and it needs renewal or rejuvenation pruning to bring the plants back under control. Renewal pruning involves heavily pruning the plant back several feet or close to the ground. Early spring, late February through March, is the best time of the year

to do it. As the weather warms up, the plants have a huge flush of growth that will quickly cover the bare branches. Avoid renewal pruning in the fall or winter as this will cause the shrubs to have an ugly, barren appearance until the new spring growth occurs. It can also make the plant more susceptible to cold injury. Most broad leafed ornamentals, such as ligustrums, hollies, crape myrtles, and cleyera respond well to renewal pruning. However, boxwoods recover slowly and can die when subjected to severe pruning. Narrowleafed evergreens, like junipers, Leyland cypress, and arbovitaes should never be pruned in such a manner since they do not regenerate new growth from the old wood and could perish.

The best time to prune varies with plant species and should be done to complement the growth characteristics, flowering, and other objectives you desire. Prune spring flowering shrubs, like forsythias, flowering quince, and azaleas after flowering because pruning before flowering will remove the flower buds.

Summer-flowering plants, such as vitex (chaste tree), tea olive, roses, and crape myrtles can be pruned in the dormant season because they flower on the new growth.

If you would like to learn more about pruning, Gwinnett County Extension will have a program on the proper pruning techniques for the home landscape. It will be held on Thursday, Feb. 16, 6:30 to 7:30 pm in the second-

floor conference room Gwinnett County Government Annex Building, 750 S. Perry St., Lawrenceville, GA 30046. Please register

by Feb. 14 by contacting the Extension office.

The 2017 annual Gwinnett County Extension Plant Sale offers several plants, including blueberries, apples, figs, native azaleas and other plants at affordable prices. To download an order form, go to the Extension website at www.ugaextension. org/gwinnett/. You can also contact the Gwinnett County Extension office for one to be mailed to you.

Timothy Daly is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent with Gwinnett County Extension. He can be reached at 678-377-4010 or tdaly@ uga.edu.

Downtown Lawrenceville travel lanes to close for new film project

BY ERIKA WELLS

erika.wells @gwinnettdailypost.com

Lawrenceville residents who travel through the downtown area should be prepared for traffic changes due to a film project near the historic courthouse today, according to city officials.

The single lanes of Clayton, Pike and Perry Street closest to the building will be closed.

The filming may be for the Netflix drama series “Ozarks” starring Jason Bateman, according to a casting call shared by Casting360.

The request calls for “new faces only, or repeats OK if you have worked in ‘Ozark’ scenes,” — particularly extras who are booked with their car.

The single lane on Clayton, Pike and Perry Street closest to the historic courthouse in downtown Lawrenceville will be closed for a film project Thursday, according to the city. (Staff Photo: Erika Wells)

Film equipment has been set up, and parking spaces surrounding the courthouse along the three streets were blocked off Wednesday.

The city took to its Facebook page to ask residents to plan ahead when traveling in the area this week. No

additional information was provided.

Like many parts of the state, Lawrenceville has become a popular place for filming. Episodes for the Fox series “Sleepy Hollow” were filmed on the square in 2015 and 2016.

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Gwinnett Braves mascot Chopper starts last year’s Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint at Suwanee Town Center Park. Registration is underway for this year’s race, which will be held Feb. 11. (File Photos)

Rotary Club signing up runners for Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint

BY CURT YEOMANS curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Props to the folks who run a 5K race in February while dressed as Cupid.

The Rotary Club of Buford/North Gwinnett has opened registration for its sixth annual Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint. The 5K sprint, which is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race, will be held at 10 a.m. on Feb. 11, on the Suwanee Creek Greenway. The race will begin and end at Suwanee’s Town Center Park.

In keeping with the romantic holiday theme, runners are encouraged to wear Valentine’s-themed costumes.

Organizers said costumed runners could be eligible for prizes.

Sprinters can sign up by visiting www.suwaneesweetheartsprint.com/home.html and paying advance registration rates of $28 per individual runner and $45 for every couple or pair. Race day

Thomas Ward gets a high five as he crosses the finish line during last year’s Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint at Suwanee Town Center Park. Registration is underway for this year’s race, which will be held on Feb. 11. (File Photo)

on-site registration will begin at 9 a.m., but the fees will be raised to $35 per individual and $55 per couple or pair on that day.

And, yes, runners are allowed to bring strollers and dogs with them during the race.

Organizers will hand out awards to the top overall male and female runners, the top male and female masters runners, the fastest dog, the

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“most senior” finisher and the top three male and female runners in each age group.

The runners will also get some swag, such as longsleeve Dri-fit style race shirts and special chocolate treats, for participating in the race.

If the February air gets too nippy, race planners have a plan for that: They’re going to serve hot chocolate and cookies to the runners after the race.

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Thursday, February 2, 2017 • 3A

State, AAA urging caution during Super Bowl partying take steps to stay safe this weekend.

“If you are hosting a party this weekend, make your guests hand over their keys when they arrive and only give them back if they are sober to drive when they leave,” Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Director Harris Blackwood said in a statement. “We also urge party hosts and bars to offer free nonalcoholic drinks to designated drivers and to compliment them for their selfless act of keeping impaired drivers off Georgia roads.”

AAA announced on Wednesday that it is part-

nering with Budweiser to offer its Tow To Go from Friday through Monday to help intoxicated drivers get home without putting themselves or other drivers at risk on the roads.

The free service is frequently rolled out at holidays such as New Years, and AAA officials said they have helped get 24,000 impaired people off the road since 1998 as a result. The idea behind it is to offer a safety net for drivers who don’t plan ahead and arrange a designated driver before consuming alcohol.

“Although there is

no way to guarantee in advance who will be the winner of Super Bowl LI, those who get caught driving impaired on Georgia roadways will be guaranteed a night or more behind bars, ” AAA’s Georgia Public Affairs Director, Garrett Townsend, said in a statement.

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety said alcohol is factor in one out every four fatal crashes.

The office also pointed out that studies show the chances of a driver being involved in an alcohol or drug-related crash increase on Super Bowl Sunday.

The fact that the Atlanta Falcons are playing in the big game for the first time since 1999 means there’s a little more excitement locally for the game this year. Public safety and AAA officials are being extra vigilant as a result.

“We join the rest of Georgia in saluting the Atlanta Falcons on reaching the biggest football game in the world,” Blackwood said. “We know fans began making their Super Bowl plans not long after the team’s NFC championship victory, and those plans need to include a safe ride home if they are plan-

ning to go out and drink alcoholic beverages while watching the game.”

Gwinnett drivers can call 855-2-TOW-2-GO to use the service, which will provide them and their car with a ride to a safe location that is up to 10 miles away from wherever they are picked up.

“Fans don’t let fans drive drunk,” AAA Traffic Safety Advocacy Managing Director Amy Stracke said in a statement. “If you’re going to be celebrating the big game with alcohol, please plan ahead so you and your loved ones get home safely.”

The legislation, if ultimately enacted, would end Georgia Health News a decades-long struggle for expanding services for A House committee dental hygienists. Georgia unanimously approved now is one of three states legislation Tuesday (Alabama and Missisthat would allow dental sippi are the others) that hygienists to practice have the strict requirement in school clinics, nursabout having a dentist ing homes and safety-net present in these situations. locations without having a Rep. Matt Hatchett, dentist present.

R-Dublin, The passage of House one of the Bill 154 by the House bill’s sponHealth and Human Sersor, said vices Committee comes a the proyear after posal was the sudden a hardcollapse fought of similar comMatt Hatchett legislapromise tion in among the stakeholder the 2016 groups. The bill, he said, General “allows for a lot more Assembly opportunities’’ to care for Sharon Cooper session. seniors and children, many Last year, the Georgia of whom currently lack acDental Association sigcess to dental services. naled support for the pro“Mountains have been posal, but it later died in moved with the Dental Asthe House Rules Commit- sociation and the hygientee after lobbying by den- ists,’’ Hatchett, the son of a tists. That wave of opposi- dentist, told the panel. tion created friction with There’s a different lawmakers, including the version of the legislation panel’s chair, Rep. Sharon pending in the state Senate.

Cooper, R-Marietta.

Cooper said the proposal But in Tuesday’s hear“would expand dental care ing, the executive director to our neediest citizens in of the Georgia Dental As- the state of Georgia.” sociation said, “We totally Last year, a Georgia support’’ the new House Tech researcher reported bill. that hundreds of thousands “I truly believe that we of Georgia children have have an excellent bill here problems getting access to for patient safety,’’ Frank a dentist in the state.

Capaldo of the Dental AsNicoleta Serban told sociation told the panel. state lawmakers at a hearThe bill would allow ing that there are more than dental hygienists to prac500,000 Georgia children tice in schools, safety-net who are not eligible for the clinics, nursing homes public insurance programs and in private dentists’ Medicaid and PeachCare practices under “general but whose parents cannot supervision.’’ That means afford dental care. a dentist would not have to In addition, Serban’s rebe present in these settings search indicated that more but would have to have than 600,000 children eligiven approval for the hy- gible for those government gienists to clean teeth and programs need to travel apply sealants and fluoride farther than state standards there.

(30 miles in an urban area,

45 miles in a rural area ) to reach a dentist to serve them.

Children with poor oral health have much higher school absentee rates due to dental pain, Polly McKinney of Voices for Georgia’s Children said Tuesday at the House hearing.

The need for dental care is also great for many Georgia seniors, according to the proposal’s supporters. Nearly one-third of older adults have untreated tooth decay. “We see this as an important step to bring better oral health care’’ to seniors, Vicki Johnson of the Georgia Council on Aging told the House panel.

Supporters of the proposal have pointed out that dental hygienists are already allowed to clean teeth in Georgia public health departments without having a dentist present if they are authorized by a supervising dentist.

Rep. Cooper said there had been “misinformation’’ that the previous proposal would allow dental hygienists to practice independently. That was never the case, she said, because a dentist would have to agree to authorize a hygienist to work in designated settings.

The new legislation would allow general supervision in private practice, so that dentists could be on sick leave or vacation and not have to close their practices, because hygienists could still see patients for some basic services.

After the hearing, Cooper told GHN that dentists “used a lot of political capital’’ last year in fighting the dental hygienist bill.

“We’ve come up with a good compromise,’’ she said. “We’ve spent a lot of time on this. We’re not going down this road again.”

U.S. Rep. Rob Woodall was picked this week to lead one of the subcommittees of the U.S. House’s Rules Committee, putting him in a key position in political environment where Republicans control the legislative and executive branches.

Woodall, R-Ga., was picked by Rules Committee Chairman Rep. Pete Sessions, R-Texas, to lead the Legislative and Budget Process Subcommittee. Meanwhile, another Georgia congressman and Republican, Rep. Doug Collins, was picked to lead the Rules and Organization of the House Subcommittee.

“As a senior member of the committee, Congressman Rob Woodall has played an integral role in the operation of this organization,” Sessions said in a statement. “His thoughtful and deliberate approach has been the hallmark of his success at the committee, and I look forward to his continued service as subcommittee chairman.”

The Legislative and Budget Process Subcommittee is tasked with tackling any legislation that deals with the relationship between the president and Congress.

Woodall will be joined on the subcommittee by Reps.

Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., Michael Burgess, R-Texas, Bradley Byrne, R-Ala., Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., Alcee Hastings, D-Fla., and Jared Polis, D-Colo.

“It’s such an honor to serve with the men and women of the House Committee on Rules, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to lead the Rules Subcommittee on Legislative and Budget Process during the 115th Congress,” Woodall said in a statement.

“A good product requires a good process, and I’m grateful for the leadership

Political Notebook

and partnership of Chairman Sessions as we work together to achieve both.”

Isakson, Perdue support cabinet candidates The U.S. Senate is in full confirmation mode this week as senators, including both from Georgia, vote on whether to approve President Donald Trump’s cabinet picks.

Sens. Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, both R-Ga., were among the senators who voted in favor of confirming Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State on Wednesday. Tillerson’s appointment to the position was confirmed by the Senate in a 56-43 vote.

On Tuesday, Perdue and Isakson were also among the senators who voted to confirm Elaine Chao as Trump’s transportation secretary. Chao was confirmed by the Senate in a 93-6 vote.

Isakson also voted in favor of sending treasury secretary nominee Steven Mnuchin and health and human services secretary nominee, Rep. Tom Price, to the full Senate for confirmation votes on Tuesday.

Senators also support Trump’s Supreme Court nominee Trump’s announcement of nominating Judge Neil Gorsuch to replace Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court was only announced Tuesday, but the U.S. Court of Appeals judge already has backers in both of Georgia’s sena-

tors.

Scalia’s seat on the court has been vacant since he died last year. Former President Barack Obama attempted to nominate his own pick for the seat, but Republicans in the Senate refused to hold confirmation hearings, saying they wanted to leave the pick to Obama’s successor.

“Judge Gorsuch shares the late Justice Antonin Scalia’s commitment to starting all constitutional analysis with the actual text of the Constitution,” Isakson said in a statement. “In addition, Judge Gorsuch’s distinguished service on the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals provides vital, relevant experience for service on our nation’s highest court.”

Perdue added: “Judge Gorsuch has led a remarkable career both in the private and public sectors and demonstrated a keen understanding and appreciation of the law. He clerked for two Supreme Court Justices, worked at the Department of Justice under President Bush, and has served admirably on the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals for the last ten years. I look forward to confirming Judge Gorsuch and returning to a complete high court.”

Deal to proclaim this Friday ‘Falcons Friday’ The fervor over the Atlanta Falcons playing in this weekend’s Super Bowl game has reached the executive branch of the state’s government.

Gov. Nathan Deal is expected to announce a proclamation setting Friday as “Falcons Friday” across Georgia as a show of support for the team.

The Falcons will play the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl on Sunday.

Political Notebook appears in the Thursday and Sunday editions of the Gwinnett Daily Post.

Gwinnett signees • Georgia P Brooks Buce, GAC^ ATH DeAngelo Gibbs, Grayson* DE Kolby Wyatta, Shiloh^ Georgia Military College TE Ben Johnson, South Gwinnett DL Brandon Jones, Dacula OL Nathaniel Wellington, Collins Hill • Georgia Southern DE Jason Johnson, Peachtree Ridge DB Garbentz Josue, Mountain View • Georgia State DL Steven Banks, Grayson^ LB Victor Heyward, Mill Creek OL Jalen Jackson, Grayson DB Jaylon Jones, Dacula WR Tamir Jones, Norcross OL Chris Sibilia, North Gwinnett* • Georgia Tech DB Zane Ashley, Peachtree Ridge K Brenton King, Mill Creek DB Da’Meon Williams, Norcross LB TD Roof, Buford • Kennesaw State LB Jack Ness, Buford

• LaGrange LB Gabriel Nieves, LaGrange • Mercer WR Edmond Graham, Mill Creek DB Jamar Hall, Mill Creek DB Davis Markham, GAC • New Rock Prep Academy ATH Vern Bellamy, Central Gwinnett LB Paul Brewer, Central Gwinnett QB Nick Partlow, Central Gwinnett • Point University DB Emmanuel Nnaife, Peachtree Ridge K Eric Riveria, Meadowcreek • Reinhardt University LB Malik Carrassco, Central Gwinnett DB Omari DeBose, Grayson RB Anthony Presto, Mill Creek WR Dondre Sanderson, Peachtree Ridge WR Ace Williams, Mill Creek • Valdosta State OL Dez Ikpa, Dacula DB Jarius Jones, Central Gwinnett *= January enrolee ^= Walk-on

By Curt Yeomans

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Drivers who are planning to enjoy an adult beverage or two while watching the Super Bowl on Sunday are being urged to think ahead about how they get home safely.

Super Bowl Sunday has long been synonymous with partying as friends gather to watch the big game together. Part of that partying often involves alcohol, which is why state safety officials, as well as AAA — The Auto Club, are urging drivers to

Rob Woodall picked for influential House panel begins another quest for a dental hygienist law House subcommittee chairmanship

By Andy Miller

•From Page 1A

and Georgia Tech defensive coordinator Ted Roof is 6-foot-1 Norcross receiver responsible for recruiting Tamir Jones, Grayson offen- the county, and this year he sive lineman Jalen Jackson landed an important prospect, and North Gwinnett offensive his son and Buford standout lineman Chris Sibilia. Sibilia linebacker T.D. Roof. He also enrolled at Georgia State reeled in Norcross cornerin January and said it could back Da’Meon Williams. be interesting with so many Thanks to late flips of Gwinnett connections on the Peachtree Ridge safety Zane roster.

Ashley from Mercer and Mill “It could kind of be rough Creek kicker Brenton King talking smack between our from Old Dominion, the high schools, but besides Yellow Jackets landed four that I think we’ll all come Gwinnett prospects. together pretty well,” he said.

“I think it’s great,” T.D. Central Gwinnett grad Roof said of the Gwinnett

Curt Yeomans

Signees quartet. “I think anytime Georgia Tech gets kids from in-state it’s good, because it’s always a rivalry between Georgia and Georgia Tech.

We need to get kids in-state and keep them in-state. I think it’s just great that we’ve been able to do that this year.”

Georgia landed just one Gwinnett player, but it was four-star athlete DeAngelo Gibbs from Grayson. The 6-foot-2, 204-pounder could play receiver or safety for the Bulldogs. Georgia also added some depth in 6-foot-3, 240-pound Shiloh defensive

end Kolby Wyatt and secondteam all-county kicker/punter Brooks Buce of Greater Atlanta Christian.

Mercer signed the trio Mill Creek receiver Edmond Graham and defensive back Jamar Hall to go with GAC defensive back Davis Markham. Georgia Southern landed a pair of talented defenders in Jason Johnson from Peachtree Ridge and Garbentz Josue of Mountain View.

Georgia Military College, Kennesaw State, LaGrange, New Rock Prep Academy, Valdosta State and Point University all signed Gwinnett prospects on Wednesday as well.

“As a high school coach, I can tell you when I first started you didn’t have that many opportunities for them (in-state),” Jarvis said.

“I’m as happy for the state, for Georgia, being a high school coach that you have those opportunities. It’s great football, great coaching staffs and academically, so I think it’s going to bode well for the future of the state of Georgia for high school football and college football.”

• 2017 In-state

4A • Thursday, February 2, 2017 To Your Good Health

gwinnettdailypost.com

today

20%

Keith Roach

Trouble swallowing needs to be investigated DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 54-year-old female. In the past year, I have developed difficulty swallowing.

I usually do not have this in the early morning, but as the day goes on, especially in the evening, I find that when I eat, I have to labor to swallow. This occurs mostly with harder foods such as meat, salad, apples. Every so often, it feels like the food is getting stuck and as if I will choke.

This, of course, causes a big scare for me. Other than mild heartburn, I am a very healthy individual. What could be some reasons that this is happening? Eating has become an unpleasant activity, no matter how hungry I am.

— C.S. ANSWER: Dysphagia (from the Greek roots “dys,” for “bad,” and “phagia,” for “eat”) is a common concern, with many causes, some of which are serious.

Dysphagia to liquids is more consistent with a neurological condition, achalasia, whereas when I hear that the dysphage is from harder foods like meat, I think more of mechanical blockages to swallowing. The esophagus can develop a stricture or a web — both structural problems that cause food to get literally stuck in the esophagus. Sometimes the food eventually passes, but in more severe cases the food is regurgitated undigested.

The most concerning cause of dysphagia to solid foods is cancer of the esophagus. People with heartburn are at higher risk for this condition. This is a symptom I take seriously, and I almost always refer my patients with this issue to a gastroenterologist, who can perform an upper endoscopy. However, a dye study, such as a barium swallow or a CT scan, is another way of evaluating this issue. This should get evaluated soon.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I am an 84-year-old woman in reasonably good health. My problem has confused my doctors. I get a slight feeling of nausea and the feeling goes into my face and head, leaving my face feeling flushed and giving me a headache for hours. My doctors think it is acid reflux but do not understand feeling it in my face and head. It leaves me feeling ill for the rest of the day.

It happens randomly with no apparent reason. I would appreciate your insight.

— M.R. ANSWER: Facial flushing is a common symptom, but its combination with nausea in an 84-year-old makes me consider some serious conditions.

Some things that are common in others but not likely in you include menopause, a reaction to certain foods (especially with the additive MSG) and alcohol use. I am sure you would have told me had it been any of these.

Certain substances released into the bloodstream by benign or malignant tumors can cause a flushing sensation. In the carcinoid syndrome, the face, neck and sometimes chest can turn red with a flushing sensation, sometimes alongside abdominal pain, wheezing and diarrhea. Pheochromocytoma, a condition I frequently look for but seldom find, sometimes has symptoms of flushing and headache, usually in association with a high blood pressure.

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saturday

sunday

monday

tuesday

wednesday

20%

0%

50%

10%

20%

60%

57

53

57

65

68

67

36

47

38

41

solunar tables

The solunar tables for lakes are based on studies that show fish and game are more active at certain times during the lunar period.

Major

The Gwinnett Daily Post (UPSP 921-980, ISSN 10860096) is published Wednesday through Friday and Sunday by SCNI, 725 Old Norcross Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30045. Periodical postage paid at Lawrenceville, GA 30044. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gwinnett Daily Post, P.O. Box 603, Lawrenceville, GA 30046-0603.

5:09-7:09 a.m.............5:34-7:34 p.m.

Minor

11:05 a.m.-12:05 p.m.

pollen counts Trees: Moderate Weeds: Low Grass: Low

Lake

50

41

54

lake levels

Full Yesterday

Lake

Allatoona (840.0) ......... 827.95

Full Yesterday

Lanier

(1071.0) .......1060.93

Blackshear (237.0) ......... 237.05

Nottely

(1779.0) ....... 1761.78

Blue Ridge (1690.0) .......1669.31

Oconee

(435.0) .......... 434.9

Burton

(1865.0) .......1865.18

Seminole (77.5)............. 78.2

Carters

(1072.0) .......1069.13

Sinclair

Chatuge

(1927.0) ....... 1917.61

Thurmond (330.0) ........ 320.75

(339.8) ........ 338.72

Harding

(521.0) ........ 520.73

Tugalo

Hartwell

(660.0) .........650.18

Walter F. George (188.0)...189.24

(891.5) ........ 889.95

Jackson

(530.0) .......... 529.2

West Point (635.0) ........ 629.79

today in history

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TODAY’S HISTORY: In 1790, the Supreme Court of the United States convened for the first time.

In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, ending the war between the United States and Mexico.

In 1887, the first official Groundhog Day celebration was held at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. In 1913, the current Grand Central Terminal opened in New York City.

In 1943, the Russian victory at Stalingrad was concluded when German forces surrendered to the Soviets.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS: Solomon R. Guggenheim (1861-1949), businessman/philanthropist; James Joyce (1882-1941), author/poet; George Halas (1895-1983), football coach/ team owner; Ayn Rand (1905-1982), author/philosopher; Elaine Stritch (1925-2014), actress/comedian; Stan

Getz (1927-1991), jazz musician; Tom Smothers (1937- ), comedian/actor; Graham Nash (1942- ), singer-songwriter; Farrah Fawcett (1947-2009), actress; Christie Brinkley (1954- ), model; Shakira (1977- ), singer-songwriter.

TODAY’S FACT: Since the release of the popular movie “Groundhog Day” in 1993, crowds of up to 30,000 have visited Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania each year on Feb. 2 to see whether Punxsutawney Phil observes his shadow.

TODAY’S SPORTS: In 1876, the National League of Professional Baseball Clubs, now known as the National League of Major League Baseball, was established.

TODAY’S QUOTE: “The demand that I make of my reader is that he should devote his whole life to reading my works.” — James Joyce

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Couple confused by polyamorous friends Dear Amy: My husband and I recently discovered that our closest friends (another couple) are having an open relationship. They say they are “polyamorous.”

I am having a very hard time accepting this. They were in our wedding, and we were in theirs. In the last 10 years I can’t remember having a single disagreement with them, but I can’t seem to get past this.

They didn’t even tell us about it. We found out because the husband was hanging all over another woman very publicly at their annual party. My husband found out what was really going on through another longtime friend.

The couple says they are both sleeping with this other woman. It didn’t look like that, though.

The husband didn’t pay any attention to his wife all night.

These friends of ours are expecting their first child soon and have asked us to be the child’s godparents.

I am struggling. I know what I am feeling is wrong and that I shouldn’t care what they do.

But I do care. For some dumb reason I feel hurt and sadly disgusted.

I don’t know what I should do. My husband is willing to act like nothing is going on. I don’t think I can.

Should I walk away from a 10-year friendship? Should I try harder

spiritual backdrop to the child’s life. Are you willing to carry on this job of being this child’s loyal and constant adult friend through life? I hope so.

But this will be a tough choice.

Dear Amy: I’m a woman who has been dating another woman for Amy Dickinson about a month now. I see this blooming into someto get over my own thing more serious. feelings and ignore it? I Over the phone, we thought I was a better and were talking about spendmore accepting person. ing the night at her place — Confused Friend for the first time when Dear Confused: she mentioned that her Your own feelings are roommate was one of her the natural consequence ex-girlfriends. of your closest friends’ I felt blindsided. I told choice to confound all of her why it made me unyour expectations about comfortable. She said she them. When you stood up didn’t want me to think it with them at their wedwas anything more than ding, you witnessed their a rent situation, which pledge to be sexually I believe to be true. Her faithful. I assume that exes figure prominently their choice to let you in her social life: two of learn this important detail them are in her circle of about them from others college friends and she might hurt more than visits another regularly your judgment about their out of state. behavior.

While I don’t think this Because they have is a deal-breaker, it’s a declared their marriage new situation for me — to be “open,” you should my exes and I are on good openly talk to them about terms, but we don’t hang it. Express your concerns, out. I don’t know how focusing on the impact on to hash out my feelings your long friendship. about this.

In this case, the wife’s Is my gut waving a red pregnancy might have flag? upended their connection.

— Upset But this unbridled “openDear Upset: Your ness” will make their gut is not waving a red parenting tougher, not flag. If it does, see a easier. gastroenterologist immeWhen you are asked to diately. be a godparent to a child, However, your instincts you are being asked to are kicking in, and you help the parents provide a should never diminish

Ask Amy

your own natural reactions. Your instincts are informing you about how to proceed.

There is no downside to having a serious conversation about this. You should be inquiring, transparent and honest. Your girlfriend should be, too.

If she downplays your concerns or says that you are somehow “wrong” to feel the way you feel, then this tells you something very important about her.

Many people maintain no-big-deal friendships with their exes, but you obviously don’t. The best thing for you to do is to get to know all of these people, observe the dynamics and trust your gut to be your guide.

Dear Amy: “Worried” caught her boyfriend in a number of small lies.

She should consider that he might even be lying to her that he is single. The future with an untrustworthy person is not an easy one.

— Been There Dear Been There: Once you’ve been lied to, building back trust is a very tough lift.

You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@amydickinson. com. Readers may send postal mail to Amy Dickinson, c/o Tribune Content Agency, LLC., 16650 Westgrove Drive, Suite 175, Addison, TX 75001.

You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or “like” her on Facebook.

Visit us online at www.gwinnettdailypost.com

Look to the past for ideas on how to proceed. Reliving experiences and reviving old ideas will help you discover what you have to do this year to reach your goals. Personal, financial and emotional gains are within reach.

Express your feelings and follow your heart.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Don’t be afraid to act fast.

You’ll stay ahead of the competition if you take action. You can bravely make things happen.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) — Rely on people you know in order to drum up support for your projects.

Honesty will help you cut through any confusion and will bring what you want and need to the forefront.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) — You’ll find it difficult to proceed with caution. Your desire to get things done your way will lead to both opportunities and obstacles.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) — You know what’s best for yourself and how you should proceed, so don’t let anyone dump responsibilities on you that will deter you from following through with your plans. Avoid excess.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) — Try something new and get out and make friends with people who challenge you.

Networking functions will encourage you to be more innovative and entrepreneurial. Physical fitness is encouraged.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) — Your emotions will be difficult to deal with. Trying to change what other people do is a waste of time. Concentrate on yourself and how you handle situations.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) — Express your feelings and bring about the changes that will help you gain control over your life. Don’t accept undesirable results when you can have so much more.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) — You need to handle money wisely.

Demands are best kept at a distance. Don’t fold under pressure or give in to someone using persuasive tactics in an attempt to convince you to accept a bad deal.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Strive to stabilize your life and your relationships with others.

Seek compromise if it will help you avoid discord or loss. Change can be good if it’s made with honorable intentions.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) — Explore your ideas, and clear a space at home that will encourage you to engage in creative endeavors.

Travel is best avoided.

You will face injury or delays if you aren’t cautious.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Bring about positive changes at home by working to promote your ideas and plans for a better standard of living. Discipline and labor will be rewarding.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Problems while traveling or dealing with financial institutions, government agencies or hospitals will surface.

Evaluate each situation separately and say no to anyone or anything that doesn’t fit your agenda.

Thursday, February 2, 2017 • 5A

gwinnettdailypost.com

world Fighting flares in eastern Ukraine Fighting in eastern Ukraine between pro-Russian rebels and Ukrainian armed forces is escalating, officials have warned.

A higher number of ceasefire violations were reported between Sunday and Monday evenings, compared with the previous 24 hours, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine said Monday.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said eight Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the Donbass region in two days.

“Russian occupation forces carried out massive attacks across the contact line using all available weapons, including (artillery, mortars and tanks) — all prohibited by the Minsk agreements — and small arms,” the ministry said. At least 26 troops were wounded.

Security forces begin evacuating Israeli outpost Israel’s security forces began evacuating an illegal outpost built on private Palestinian-owned land Wednesday, even as Israel once again ramps up its settlement program elsewhere.

The announcement of the creation of thousands of new housing units in the West Bank came as Israel began to evacuate the illegal Israeli outpost of Amona near Ramallah in the West Bank.

Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said about 3,000 members of Israeli security forces were deployed to Amona, with many blocking access to roads to the settlement to prevent settlers’ supporters from joining efforts to resist the eviction.

About 600 settlers are protesting and have set fires and thrown rocks, nails and other debris on the road in an attempt to hinder the security forces’ passage.

world&nation Senate approves Tillerson for State

By Nicole Gaouette CNN

The Senate has approved former ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson as the next secretary of state, filling one more slot on President Donald Trump’s national security team despite questions about his approach to Russia and state sponsors of terror, such as Iran.

The Senate voted 56 to 43, with all Republicans in support and most Democrats voting against him. Three Democratic senators split with their party to back Tillerson: Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Mark Warner of Virginia. They were joined by Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine, who caucuses with Democrats.

Sen. Bob Corker, a Tennessee Republican and chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said he was sure Tillerson would be an effective leader at the State Department.

“Mr. Tillerson led a global enterprise with 75,000 employees, possesses deep relationships around the world, and understands the critical role of US leadership,” Corker said in a statement. “He has expressed a commitment to defend American values and to restore US credibility by strengthening old alliances and building new ones.”

The 64-year-old Texan had a shaky confirmation hearing

The Senate has approved former ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson as the next secretary of state, filling one more slot on President Donald Trump’s national security team despite questions about his approach to Russia and state sponsors of terror, such as Iran. (Special Photo: CNN)

before Corker’s committee in January, generating frustration among Democrats and Republicans alike after he dodged a series of questions.

He wouldn’t agree when asked if Russia’s Vladimir Putin — who has given Tillerson Russia’s highest civilian honor for his work there as an oil man — is a war criminal. Tillerson also avoided condemning human rights abuses in China, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.

And he sidestepped a direct answer about whether humans cause climate change.

Democrats also raised concerns about how long Tillerson would recuse himself from decisions that could affect ExxonMobil once he became the top US diplomat.

Sen. Chris Coons, a

Democrat from Connecticut, opposed Tillerson’s nomination, questioning whether the Texan’s close business dealings with Moscow would impact his response to any Russian aggression and arguing that “it is not the same thing to run a global business and run the State Department.”

“We have reason to fear that Mr. Tillerson would run the State Department like he ran Exxon, where he repeatedly worked against U.S. national interests,” Coons said Tuesday.

He noted that Tillerson opposed sanctions against Russia after its invasion of Ukraine and “was awarded the Order of Friendship by Vladimir Putin,” Murphy said on the Senate floor.

“We have a President who has openly mocked human rights, who has supported vicious dictators, and a secretary of state who has made a career of doing business with some of the worst human rights violators in the world.”

Sen. Diane Feinstein, a California Democrat, said she voted against Tillerson because he claimed not to know about Exxon’s history of lobbying Congress in opposition to sanctions on Iran and Russia. She cited public documents that show Exxon established a joint venture with Shell called Infineum.

That venture’s purpose was to conduct business with Iran, Sudan and Syria, all considered by the U.S. to be state sponsors of terror and under U.S. sanctions.

people Alan Thicke’s son shares memory of last goodbye

Alan Thicke’s son is sharing his memories of the last moments of his famous father’s life.

Carter Thicke, 19, sat down with “Entertainment Tonight” to talk about his beloved dad.

Father and son had been playing hockey in December at an ice rink in Burbank, Calif., when the elder Thicke collapsed.

“The ambulance came and the paramedics had stabilized him and everything seemed fine,” the teen said in a clip released by the show.

The star later died of a ruptured aorta.

The “Growing Pains” star was “the perfect dad,” his son said.

Carter is the youngest of three sons born to the actor and his ex-wife, Gina. Older brothers Brennan and Robin are the children of Thicke and his first wife, the singer and actress Gloria Loring.

Kim, Kanye West venturing into children’s fashion

Now your kids can be decked out like the Kardashian West children.

Kim Kardashian West and her rapper husband Kanye are launching a children’s fashion line.

Kardashian West recently shared the news with fans via a series of Snapchats.

Their 3-year-old daughter, first from Bogotá to Miami International Airport, where it North, served as model in was flagged for maintenance. the video, wearing a yellow sequined dress and matching Workers in Miami were too Sen. Jeff Sessions yellow jacket. busy, so they diverted the jet nomination “Wait, let me see this to Tulsa International Airport, advances outfit that you’ve got on,” where a technician on SunThe future of criminal Kardashian West tells their day noticed that insulation justice reform hangs in the in the nose gear’s electronics daughter. “Do you see this balance as the nomination of bay looked new, the sheriff’s Yeezy jacket? Is that a Yeezy yellow shearling?”

Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions, office said.

The proud mom also President Donald Trump’s The technician moved points out that North got in pick for attorney general, was aside the insulation, spoton the style game. advanced in a party-line vote The Senate Judiciary Committee voted Tuesday on the ted the drugs, and called the “See, Daddy and Mommy by the Senate Judiciary Com- nomination of Sen. Jeff Sessions as attorney general, ses- sheriff’s office, the departsions nomination advanced in a party-line vote by the Sen- ment said. are doing a kids line, and mittee Wednesday. ate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday. (Special Photo: these are some of the pieces,” Activists worry that CNN) Trump, who preached First U.S. city files Kardashian West says. “Northie picked out the colors and Deputy John Braman, 33, “law and order” during his Lamar Alexander, chairman lawsuit against the fabric.” was placed on paid adminiscampaign and threatened last of the Senate Committee on week to “send in the Feds” to Health, Education, Labor and trative leave last Wednesday executive order Motive remains violence-plagued Chicago, Pensions, Democrats submit- as the sheriff’s office investi- on sanctuaries Beyoncé, Jay Z gated “multiple” allegations would halt former President ted hundreds of questions to unknown in San Francisco became the to have twins that he had taken money the nominee. In response to mosque shooting Barack Obama’s reforms, Superstar singer Beyoncw from defendants during DUI first city in the U.S. to file a and institute new policies that a question from Sen. Patty The suspect charged with posted a photo with her baby lawsuit over President Donarrests. could worsen conditions.

Murray, the top Democrat gunning down six people in bump on Instagram Wednesald Trump’s executive order Braman resigned on “The Republican Party on the committee, on bula Quebec City mosque was day to announce the joyful targeting sanctuary cities.

Monday in a one-sentence right now is divided belying of LGBT students, known for his far-right views tween people who recognews.

Signed Jan. 25, the DeVos almost directly — and letter sent through an attorney, “We would like to share our and appeared to be attracted order aims to crack down on which CNN has obtained. nize now that the criminal uncited — quoted Principal to the rhetoric of a French sanctuary cities, the term for love and happiness. We have Volusia County Sheriff justice system is a big failed, Deputy Assistant Attorney far-right politician, according unaccountable government jurisdictions with policies that been blessed two times over.

Mike Chitwood had harsh General Vanita Gupta, head to several news reports. limit cooperation between or We are incredibly grateful that bureaucracy that’s wastof Obama’s Civil Rights Di- words for Braman, calling Alexandre Bissonnette, involvement with federal im- our family will be growing him a “thieving idiot” in an ing money and lives on the vision at the Justice Departby two, and we thank you for 27, faces six counts of migration enforcement. interview with the Daytona one hand,” CNN political ment. your well wishes. The Carters, first-degree murder and five The order threatens to Beach News-Journal. commentator Van Jones told The questions — which ” she posted. attempted murder charges in CNN. “On the other hard, withhold federal funding “He represents an infinitotaled over 1,000 — were Beyoncé and her superstar Sunday’s shooting, accordfrom cities that hinder eftesimal number of bad cops you have people who want to answered in DeVos’ name, husband Jay Z are parents to ing to the Royal Canadian around the country but when forts to capture and deport stick with the same old dumb but it’s unclear what role a five-year-old daughter, Blue Mounted Police in Quebec. undocumented immigrants. this gets played in the news, on crime, lock ’em up poliaides and staffers played in Authorities have not it makes everyone who wears It contends they harm public Ivy. cies that have made things answering the queries.

The family’s news set released a possible motive, safety. the badge have to defend worse, not better.

“Every child deserves to social media on fire with the but Canadian Prime Minister Cities with diverse imthemselves against the actions attend school in a safe, supBeyhive (as her diehard fans Justin Trudeau denounced the migrant populations have of this idiot,” Chitwood told portive environment where Betsy DeVos are known) buzzing about the attack as an act of terrorism. adopted various forms of the News-Journal. they can learn, thrive, and new heir and spare. Twitter Witnesses said a gunsanctuary laws to counter appears to have grow,” DeVos writes. reported more than half a man arrived at the Quebec what some considered Cocaine stash plagiarized quotes million tweets about Beyoncé Islamic Cultural Center durextreme federal immigration for questionnaire Deputy quits after found in airline ing evening prayers Sunday policies, especially for minor, in the first hour after her big cam appears to Betsy DeVos, Donald reveal. and began firing indiscrimiplane’s nose nonviolent crimes.

Beyoncé has frequently nately into the crowd of men, Trump’s Education Secretary catch him stealing San Francisco’s lawsuit Seven bricks of cocaine nominee, appears to have women and children. alleges the executive order is been the subject of pregnancy A 10-year veteran of the with a street value of at least unconstitutional and exceeds rumors. lifted quotes in at least two Six worshipers were In 2011, she announced the Volusia County Sheriff’s $200,000 were discovered instances in written answers killed: Mamadou Tanou the President’s power. It submitted to the Senate com- Office in Florida resigned on in the nose of an American Barry, 42; Abdelkrim Hasclaims the city already com- impending birth of their first child by revealing her baby Airlines plane that flew from plies with applicable federal sane, 41; Khaled Belkacemi, mittee tasked with approving Monday not long after ofbump at the end of a perforficials released body camera Colombia to Oklahoma, her nomination.

60; Aboubaker Thabti, 44; law and seeks to prevent the After DeVos’ confirmation video that allegedly shows the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office government from cutting off mance at the MTV Video Azzeddine Soufiane, 57; and Music Awards. deputy taking money from the said in a statement. hearing was limited to one Ibrahima Barry, 39. funding.

— From wire reports wallet of a DUI suspect.

The Boeing 757 flew — From wire reports round of questions by Sen. — From wire reports

nation

Hitler’s phone, ‘which sent millions to their deaths,’ to be sold at auction

By Judith Vonberg CNN

Adolf Hitler’s telephone, recovered from the Fuhrerbunker and kept in a box at an English country house since 1945, will be sold at auction in the United States later this month.

The phone was presented to Hitler by the Wehrmacht and was used by the Nazi leader to issue most of his commands during the last two years of World War II, according to a description in the catalog for

Must read

British officer Ralph Rayner recovered the phone from Hitler’s bunker while visiting Berlin on the Alexander Historical Auctions in orders of Field Marshall Bernard Maryland.

Montgomery just a few days after Made by Siemens as a black the end of the war, according to Bakelite phone, it was later painted Rayner’s personal account and red and engraved with Hitler’s name shipping documents from that time and a swastika, the catalog says. period, according to the auction The auction house describes the house. telephone as “Hitler’s mobile device His son Ranulf Rayner, 82, of destruction,” and called it “argu- inherited the phone after his father’s ably the most destructive ‘weapon’ death in 1977. “My father didn’t of all time, which sent millions to see it as a relic of Hitler’s glory their deaths around the world.” days, more a battered remnant of his

defeat, a sort of war trophy,” he told CNN. “He never thought it would become an important artifact.”

Sent to the shattered German capital to establish contact with the Russian forces who had captured the city, Ralph Rayner was probably the very first non-Soviet victor to enter Hitler’s bunker.

“He could still smell burning flesh,” Ranulf Rayner said, recalling his father’s description of the underground shelter where Hitler spent his final days. In his words, it was a “dreadful hellhole.”

First offered the black telephone found in the room of Eva Braun, Hitler’s bride, Ralph Rayner instead chose the red phone next to Hitler’s bed. “He told the Russians that red was his favorite color,” Ranulf Rayner said, “which the Russians rather liked.”

In a letter to his wife Elizabeth on May 18, 1945, Ralph Rayner wrote of the “utter horror” he witnessed in Berlin, but did not mention the remarkable souvenir he had in his possession.

perspectives

gwinnettdailypost.com

Todd Cline, Editor

todd.cline@gwinnettdailypost.com

Page 6 A • Thursday, February 2, 2017

Driving us to point of distraction WASHINGTON — Donald Trump seems to think he’s still on his reality TV show shouting, “You’re fired!” while President Stephen Bannon is busy drafting executive orders with his favorite black crayon.

Such is the surreal universe in which we find ourselves. Those who thought they were electing Trump to the presidency likely have never heard of Jerzy Kosinski — author of the novel and movie, “Being There,” in which protagonist Chance the gardener, a simpleton who worked for a wealthy benefactor, is mistaken for an aristocrat named Chauncey Gardiner through a grand misunderstanding born of magical thinking.

When Gardiner’s Kathleen employer dies and the Parker gardener is forced to enter the larger world, his body of knowledge consists only of what he has seen on television. When he speaks about flowers and plants, others interpret his simple words as insightful and profound observations on economics and foreign policy. They hear and see what they need to see and hear. Finally, Chauncey is selected as the perfect next president based solely on people’s utterly incorrect interpretation of him.

Similarly, candidate Trump shouted nonsense to cheering crowds who decided that he was brilliant and insightful. He’s no simple mind, as far as we know (though one wonders why so much family is constantly in attendance), and the titular president of the United States is currently Mr. Trump. But it’s Bannon who seems to be pulling the levers — running the show — unelected, inaccessible and unaccountable.

The rumpled, former naval officer and filmmaker must be given credit where due. He obviously has a Soviet’s grasp of the power of propaganda and an admitted mission to restore economic nationalism and a high tolerance for the intolerant.

His Breitbart news franchise was a welcoming haven for white supremacists and Nazis.

If Karl Rove was George W. Bush’s brain, Bannon is Trump’s conscience.

The noted parallels to Kosinski’s inspired character, meanwhile, are almost too on-the-nose to merit further comment. But even those who noticed the similarities much earlier in this electoral psycho-saga may be forgiven if they’re surprised by the accuracy with which life imitates art.

With little more than a week in office, President Bannon has been operating at a frantic pace. As Trump sits dutifully at his desk, signing executive orders and memorandums — banning mostly Muslim travelers and doing away with acting Attorney General Sally Yates — Bannon grabs a seat on the National Security Council.

Though true that previous administrations have approved visits by political advisers, including David Axelrod during the Obama years, there’s at least one significant difference. Within a day of the Blitzkrieg that deleted Yates, two council members specifically required to advise the president on security matters — the director of national intelligence and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — were stripped of their regular seats on the NSC’s Principals Committee. Now why would this be?

Perhaps Bannon needed a little more elbow room and fewer ears during discussions about which American citizens should die in the name of national security. Until now, such targets have been limited to al-Qaida militant Anwar al-Awlaki, who was born in New Mexico and killed in a CIA airstrike in Yemen five years ago. As, too, was his 16-year-old son two weeks later. As, also, reportedly, was his 8-year-old daughter this past Sunday during a raid that also cost the life of a member of Seal Team 6.

To what end? Was this yet another of Trump’s measuring schticks?

The precedent for killing an American citizen was set by President Obama, to be sure. But who knows where the lines will be drawn now? Every day is a jack-in-the-box — or a dozen — a fresh page from Hieronymus Bosch’s sketchpad. Even some of the so-called deplorables are beginning to get twitchy. At first they wrote me to say, “I’m slightly terrified,” more recently, “I’m downright scared,” as just one example.

The smart set says, why are you surprised?

Trump is doing what he said he would. He’s a different kind of president. Different rules. The media should sit down and shut up. People who don’t like the president’s policies should get lost.

Whatever tiny ray of hope people held out in the belief that Trump ultimately would behave rationally — respectful of protocol, with caution and care, without haste and with wisdom — has been extinguished by a strategy of maximum chaos executed by shock and awe. With heads spinning, if they’re not rolling, most won’t know what hit them until it’s too late. It’s called distraction.

Just as President Bannon intended.

Kathleen Parker’s email address is kathleenparker@washpost.com.

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Letters may be edited for style and space requirements. Please sign your name and provide an address and a daytime telephone number. Address letters for publication to: Letters to the Editor, Gwinnett Daily Post, P.O. Box 603, Lawrenceville, GA 30046-0603. The fax number is 770-339-8081. Email us at: letters@gwinnettdailypost.com.

Addressing facts of immigration “For it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all ways; they will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”

That’s a passage from the Holy Bible, found originally in Psalms 91, verses 11 and 12. This reference, however, comes from Dr. Luke’s Gospel and the speaker is the devil, proving the adage that even Satan can quote Scripture, out of context to prove a point.

There’s a lot of that going around this week. People are taking Scripture, as well as some of our most revered patriotic and historical documents, way out of context in an effort to prove the point they want to make about President Trump and his executive order to halt immigration and migration from seven Middle Eastern nations while we review our vetting process for these states — states that, according to Barack Obama’s administration, are the worst in a cast of bad actors when it comes to posing a terror threat to our nation.

The quote that I have seen the most, by far, comes from the poem, New Colossus, by Emma Lazarus, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me: I lift my lamp beside the golden door.”

That is the inscription, of course, at the base of the

Darrell Huckaby Statue of Liberty. In addition to quotes, people who seem to be incensed at the president’s order are also using pictures of Lady Liberty to make their point — and their point seems to be that everyone should be allowed unrestricted access to our borders and the largess of our great nation, although many will claim they are angry because President Trump seems, to them, to be violating our culture of religious freedom.

But they, like Satan, are using words out of context to prove their point. The primary difference is that Satan understood very clearly what he was doing, and I think most of the people who are so passionately protesting the president do not.

Because you see, the Statue of Liberty — a gift from France — sits on an island in New York harbor. Since 1886 millions of immigrants have sailed past Lady Liberty as they came to this country.

So you see, all the cartoons and memes and quotations seem to reinforce the notion that Trump is a xenophobe and worse. Except that they are wrong. Emma Lazarus

might have created an idealized image of an America that has always welcomed teeming masses to her shores, but that sentiment does not stand up when examined under the microscope of historical truth.

In 1892, six years after the Lady with the Lamp first stood watch over the harbor and 11 years before the poem was added to the statue’s base, Ellis Island, which is within spitting distance of the woman with the torch, became the immigration inspection station for New York and for decades every immigrant who came to this country through New York harbor — 12 million between 1892 and 1954 — was detained on the island while authorities vetted them and made sure that they were coming to this nation for peaceful purposes, to be a part of who we were and that they posed no threat to the well-being of the people who were already here, American citizens and other immigrants alike. Our borders were not open for anyone and everyone to come freely. But let’s not confuse the righteous indignation of the anti-Trump protesters with historical facts.

I have one friend who actually used a version of the speech of Pastor Martin Niemoller to make her point.

“First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for

the Jews, and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak for me.”

At the best she is comparing a temporary immigration ban with the systematic murder of 6 million Jews. At worst she is comparing the president of the United States with Adolf Hitler.

In the Declaration of Independence Thomas Jefferson wrote, “Let facts be submitted to a candid world.”

Here are some facts. There is no Muslim ban. There is a 90-day ban on immigration and migration to the U.S. from seven countries, until we can review our vetting process.

Again, these seven countries were identified by the Obama administration as the most dangerous to our well-being in February of last year. There are still 43 predominately Muslim nations without travel to the U.S. restrictions. No Muslims are being deported.

Donald Trump is not coming for anyone. He is trying to prevent people from coming for us. Barack Obama did the same thing in 2011 when he banned immigrants from Iraq for 120 days.

For those who won’t acknowledge these facts, it ain’t about religion or immigration.

It’s all about Trump. But we already knew that, didn’t we?

Let him who has ears hear.

Darrell Huckaby is an author in Rockdale County.

Email him at dhuck008@ gmail.com.

When straight talk becomes crazy talk CHICAGO — What are we to make of a man who seems unable to keep himself from making false statements, yet fundamentally keeps his word?

Donald Trump as president is something that we’ve rarely seen before: A self-styled straight-talker who didn’t disappoint his most fervent supporters by tacking to the center after claiming victory.

After the election, the gem that Trump’s detractors took him “literally but not seriously” and his supporters took him “seriously but not literally” made the rounds.

The seriousness came through loud and clear on a recent press call with immigrant advocates who were apoplectic, and seemingly a little shocked, about the president following through on one of his core campaign promises.

The president’s executive orders on immigration and the building of the border wall “are a direct attack on children, families and all immigrant communities,” said Hector Sanchez, chair of the National Hispanic Leadership Agenda and executive director of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement. “If the president aims to unify the country, he should be focused on building bridges, not walls.”

The only bridges Trump has sought to build, however, are the ones between himself and disaffected white voters who ranged from the merely economically marginalized

Esther Cepeda to those actively disgusted by minorities — whether from south of the border or from war-ravaged countries.

Last September, I wrote, “After flipping and flopping on the topic of immigration, perhaps Donald Trump has learned this lesson: His fans are not thirsting for a more humane, welcoming Republican candidate. Trump’s supporters like him when he is at his most bigoted and most xenophobic. They adore his finger-pointing rants. And they love him specifically because he called Mexicans ‘rapists’ and ‘murderers’ — normalizing open hostility toward all immigrants, legal or not.”

On Friday evening when Trump signed another executive order, this one barring refugees from Syria and residents from predominantly Muslim Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, it was just another campaign promise fulfilled.

While these actions are sowing fear and confusion for those affected by them, Trump’s supporters are uplift-

ed by his words of reassurance.

As he introduced his executive vow to build the border wall, Trump said: “For years, the media has largely ignored the stories of Americans and lawful residents victimized by open borders. To all of those hurting out there, I repeat to you these words: We hear you, we see you, and you will never ever be ignored again.”

This is incredibly powerful stuff.

Those who voted for Trump must be feeling an elated mix of vindication and incredulity that a politician did exactly what he said he was going to do.

Mark Krikorian, executive director of a restrictionist immigration think tank, the Center for Immigration Studies, wrote admiringly on his blog: “Trump campaigned as an immigration hawk and seems determined to actually govern that way. There will be plenty more tests of his commitment to following through — defiant sanctuary cities, greedy employers, leftist lawfare warriors, oleaginous lobbyists. But the new administration’s immigration kickoff is a resounding success.”

In politics, however, getting your way can be a doubleedged sword.

Drastic actions — like the temporary ban on arrivals from certain predominantly Muslim countries — bring with them the potential for backlash that is greater than the affections

of those who are pleased with them. On Saturday, when even green card holders were stuck in airports, unable to re-enter the country after having traveled overseas on business, study or vacation, the results were messy and angry.

The bungling of the ban’s immediate logistics, subsequent legal injunctions and eventual backpedaling on restrictions for legal permanent residents have become an embarrassing boondoggle for the nascent administration. And Trump quickly replaced the acting attorney general who said she would refuse to enforce the immigration orders.

Our country’s new antagonistic posture toward Mexico is already spurring specifics about how American lives could be affected by the costs of the wall. The Washington Post says that about 80 percent of Mexican exports — including food, electronics, medical equipment and cars — are sold to the U.S., and NBC News reports that consumers would see about a 10 percent price hike from a 20 percent tariff on these goods.

President Trump’s campaign promises have yet to show the true extent of their ugly and unintended consequences. But they are ripe with the potential to prove that “straight talk” has its limits if it also happens to be crazy talk.

Esther Cepeda’s email address is estherjcepeda@ washpost.com.

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•From Page 1A students’ learning needs.

GCPS is one of three districts around the country — the others are in Texas and Missouri — involved in a case study to examine education in the global economy.

GCPS began the test in 2014 in 11 high schools, but rolled it out to all high schools by 2016.

The district does not make the OECD Test for Schools reports public.

Instead, district leaders transfer the information from the reports into conversations with principals, curriculum leaders and teachers. Former principal John Campbell, who was principal of several schools

GCPS in Gwinnett, most recently Discovery High School before his retirement last year, works as the full-time OECD Test for Schools facilitator.

The OECD Test for Schools, as it is known in the United States, provides a school-level — as opposed to a state- or national-level — PISA report, which stands for Programme for International Student Assessment. In each school, a random sample of at least 85 15-year-old students takes the reading, math and science exams during two hours of testing and completes a student survey of no more than 30 minutes.

Each school’s principal also responds to a

30-minute survey. Schools allocate three to three-and a-half hours to the testing period, including instruction, breaks, and the student questionnaire. They are not bound to administer the test on a given day, but rather within a two-week time frame of the school’s choosing.

Campbell told the case study, “The PISA approach invites constructed responses and deeper thinking in every subject area.”

As part of the report, school leaders receive an integrated information report that allows them to consider academic outcomes in the context of student-teacher relationships, student motivation and student self-efficacy, and to

compare their students’ performance to peers around the world. The report also indicates whether students are performing better or worse than expected, given their socioeconomic standing.

The format has paid early dividends toward a cultural shift, according to officials in the district office, and teachers are more comfortable using questions that reflect PISA’s approach in formative assessments. One next step is for Campbell, a former middle school principal, to extend the program to middle schools.

Colin Martin, executive director of research and evaluation for GCPS, told the case study, “Instruction has always been taboo for

obituaries LILBURN

Morris Bailey Morris E. Bailey, age 79, of Lilburn, Ga., died Tuesday, January 31, 2017. His funeral will be Friday, February 3, 2017 in the Bill Head Funeral Home, Lilburn/Tucker Chapel. Burial will follow in Camp Creek Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, Lilburn. He owned and operated Bailey’s Garage in Lilburn and was a member of the Early Ford V8 Club. Survived by his wife, Lucille Bailey of Lilburn, daughters and sons-in-law, Rebecca and Randy Hosenfeld of Rock Hill, SC, Tracey and Mike Nordlund of Sugar Hill, Ga., son and daughterin-law, Brian “Jr.” and Lynne Bailey of Tucker, 5 grandsons, 1 granddaughter, 3 great grandsons, 3 great granddaughters, brother, Wendell Columbus Bailey of Cleveland, Ga., sister, Sonya Roberts of Cartersville, Ga., sisterin-law, Brenda Bailey of Lilburn, several nieces and 1 nephew. Online condolences may be left at www.billheadfuneralhome. com. The family will receive friends Thursday from 2 until 4 pm and from 6 until 8 pm at the Bill Head Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lilburn/Tucker Chapel. 770-564-2726.

CLEVELAND

Hazel Coker Hazel Faircloth Ray Coker of Cleveland, Georgia, a mother of two, a stepmother of two, and a grandmother of eight, an incredibly kind and loving person, and a lifelong sports fan, particularly of the Atlanta Braves and the Georgia Bulldogs, died on January 27, 2017, which was her 78th birthday.

Hazel Coker was born in 1939 and was raised in Wilcox and Crisp Counties, Georgia. As a teenager, she moved to Fort Valley, Georgia, in Peach County, to live with her brother Norman Faircloth (and his family) who was the coach at Fort Valley High School. Hazel was a cheerleader for the beloved Fort Valley Green Waves. She graduated high school in 1957, married, and began a family. She raised a son and daughter, often while working in an administrative capacity at local businesses such as The Blue Bird Body Company, AC Gas Service, Larrie Connell State Farm Agency, and the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service. All the w

while, she made time to never miss her children’s school and athletic activities, even though she juggled it all as a single mother.

In 1988, Hazel married James Avery Coker and moved to Stockbridge, Georgia, where she continued her career with the University of Georgia by working for Clayton County Cooperative Extension.

She particularly enjoyed her work in support of the Georgia 4-H Program, which had been a big part of the life of her family.

She retired in 2002, when she and James moved into their dream home next to her daughter and three of her grandchildren in the beautiful mountains of White County.

Hazel Coker is survived by her sister, Ina Faircloth of Atlanta, Georgia; her daughter, Sheila Ray Rosencrantz, of Cleveland, Georgia; her son and daughter-in-law, Judge William Ray and Dr. Kelle Chandler Ray of Grayson, Georgia; two step-daughters and stepsons-in-law, Jamie and Jim Wright of McDonough, Georgia, and Deana and Brad Mosher of Wrightsville, Georgia; four grandsons, Chandler, Davis and Avery Ray of Grayson, Georgia, and Sutton Rosencrantz of Cleveland, Georgia; two granddaughters, Laura Rosencrantz of East Point, Georgia, and Julie Walker of Dallas, Georgia; two stepgranddaughters, Caitlin Freeman and Emily Wright of McDonough, Georgia; three sisters-in-law, Mary Faircloth of Tifton, Georgia, Ferol Faircloth of Wewahitchka, Florida, and Judy Coker of McDonough, Georgia; many nieces and nephews, and many more grandnieces and grandnephews. Hazel was preceded in death by her husband, James Coker; her parents, Norman S. and Myrtle Faircloth; her brothers, Norman, William T., James, and Britt Faircloth; and her sisters, Elizabeth Faircloth Allison, Bessie Faircloth Cantrell, Dell Faircloth Hughes, and Joyce Faircloth Harrell.

There will be a visitation with the family of Hazel Coker at the Alexander Funeral Home in Cleveland, Georgia on Friday, February 3rd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a memorial service to celebrate her life in the chapel at the Gainesville First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Georgia on Saturday, February 4th at 1:00 p.m..

Flowers are welcome, or as an alternative, the family requests donations in memory of Hazel Coker to

DACULA

Glovis Crowder Glovis Horsley Crowder, age 87 of Dacula, Georgia passed away Tuesday January 31, 2017. She was born in Gastonia, NC and moved to Atlanta as an infant. She was in the last graduating class of Atlanta’s Commercial High School in 1947. After graduating she worked for Northern Pacific Railroad in Atlanta. She later became the Atlanta office manager of SCM-Allied Egry for over 30 years until her retirement. She was an active parent of the Briarcliff Community Sports organization. She loved God, her Catholic Faith, her family, her dogs, rose gardening, sewing, and the Atlanta Braves. She was survived by her daughter Frances, (Frank) Campbell, her son Bill (Mary Lou) Crowder, and grandchildren Patrick Campbell, Teshla Crowder, and Colton Crowder, and many nieces and nephews. A Funeral Mass will be said 11:00 AM Friday February 3, 2017 at the Catholic Church of St. Monica’s, with Father Jack Durkin serving as Celebrant. Interment Westview Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.billheadfuneralhome.com.

The family will receive friends Thursday 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bill Head Funeral Homes and Crematory Duluth Chapel.

Velma Cunningham Velma Cunningham, age 88, of Stone Mountain, GA, passed away on January 25, 2017. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, “A Family Company”, Snellville Chapel 770-979-3200 has been entrusted with the arrangements.

419123-1

Robbie Brown Johnson, age 84, entered into rest on Wednesday, February 1st, 2017. She is survived by son, Michael(Carol) Johnson of Grayson, GA; daughters Marsha(Jeffrey) Davis of Buford, GA and Tammy(Steve) Asnes of Centerton, AR; son-in-law, Hugh “Bubba” Williams of Dacula, GA; ten grandchildren; two great grand-

boards of education, superintendents, even principals to a large extent. That was the domain of the teacher. We say no; instructional practices matter (to all of us).”

Throughout the year, GCPS works with the schools’ curriculum directors to articulate the relationship between the state assessments, also known as Georgia Milestones, and the OECD Test for Schools.

Campbell said that he and the curriculum directors look at every publicly released question from the OECD’s website, classify the questions into broad categories and cross-walk them to the state standards. This matching exercise reassures teachers that using questions that are modeled on the frame-

work used on PISA and the OECD Test for Schools will enhance, rather than dilute, their classroom instruction and their students’ preparedness for state assessments.

“In today’s economy, the competition for jobs is a global one,” Bob Wise, president of the Alliance for Excellent Education and former governor of West Virginia, said in a press release. “Through the OECD Test for Schools, educators get a better understanding of what world-class performance looks like, see how their students stack up against their peers in leading economies worldwide and receive actionable data that they can apply in the classroom to improve teaching and learning.”

For more obituaries, visit www.gwinnettdailypost.com.

children; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ferrell M. Johnson, daughter Yvonne Williams, and son Daniel M. Johnson.

Robbie Johnson was born on January 5. 1933 in Lawrenceville, GA. She made homes in both Lawrenceville and Buford while raising her family. She was gifted with a green thumb and her flower beds were admired and brought joy to the entire neighborhood. Crocheting was also one of her hobbies. She was a member of Rock Springs UMC. A Service of Remembrance will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at10:00 AM at Tom M. Wages Lawrenceville Chapel. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 3rd from 6:00-8:00pm at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent to or viewed at www. wagesfuneralhome.com.

Tom M. Wages Funeral Service LLC, “A Family Company” 120 Scenic Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 770-963-2411. .

BUFORD

John Lagerberg John David Lagerberg, age 86 of Buford, died January 31, 2017. Bill Head Funeral Homes and Crematory Duluth Chapel, 770-476-2535.

LOGANVILLE

Michael Mauney Michael Jackson “Mike” Mauney, age 64, of Loganville, GA, passed away on January 27, 2017. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, “A Family Company”, Snellville Chapel 770-979-3200 has been entrusted with the arrangements.

STONE MOUNTAIN

Robbie Johnson

www.peachtreecremation.com

678-413-0104

the Georgia 4-H Foundation in support of the Rock Eagle 4-H Center Cabin Campaign, 306 Hoke Smith Annex, Athens, Georgia 30602.

To leave a memory or a condolence, please visit our website at www. alexander-funeral.com

LAWRENCEVILLE

COMPLETE CREMATION $ 79500 463100-1

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gwinnettdailypost.com

MONROE

Catherine Melton Catherine Melton, age 95 of Monroe, passed January 31, 2017. Tim Stewart Funeral Home, 209 South Hammond Drive, Monroe, GA 30655. 770-2672594. www.stewartfh.com

Clay Taylor Clay Taylor, age 27, of Snellville, GA, passed away on January 30, 2017.

Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, “A Family Company”, Snellville Chapel 770-979-3200 has been entrusted with the arrangements.

JEFFERSON

DULUTH

Carroll Pucket Mr. Carroll Anderson “C.A.” Puckett, age 76 of Jefferson, Georgia who entered into rest Tuesday, January 31, 2017.

FLOWERY BRANCH

Shirley Smith Shirley Ann Trusty Smith, age 68, of Flowery Branch, GA passed away Wednesday, February 1, 2017. She is survived by her husband of forty-three years, Randall Smith, Flowery Branch, GA; children, Scott Johnson, Hoschton, GA, and Mike Johnson, Hoschton, GA; sisters, Janie Mullinax, Alpharetta, GA, Willene Allen, Greenville, SC; brother and sister-in-law, James and Cindy Trusty, Waycross, GA; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mrs. Smith was born June 5, 1948 in Atlanta, GA. She was the daughter of the late Doyd and Dixie Brumblow Trusty.

She was a retired assistant manager for Dollar Tree.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home in Buford.

Interment will follow at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens in Buford. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 3, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.at the funeral home.

To express condolences, please sign our online guest book at www.flaniganfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements By: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.

MARIETTA

George McCown George Richard McCown, age 76 of Marietta, GA passed away on January 28, 2017. Arrangements by: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.

SNELLVILLE

Raymond McKay Raymond “Ray” McKay, age 77, of Snellville, GA, passed away on January 31, 2017. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, “A Family Company”, Snellville Chapel 770-979-3200 has been entrusted with the arrangements.

SNELLVILLE

Patricia Tetrault Patricia Richbourg Evans Tetrault died at home in Duluth GA on January 30, 2017. Pat is survived by her husband, Richard Tetrault; daughters, Teri Evans and Lisa Evans Bednarz; son-in-law, Brad Bednarz; granddaughters, Samantha Bednarz and Brooke Bednarz; stepchildren, Scott Tetrault and Tanya Watford; aunt, Mary Lou Edwards; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great- and greatgreat nieces and nephews; six step-grandchildren; and many loving friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Julian Wright and Mary Simmons Richbourg; sister, Judy Richbourg Allen Milford; beloved grandson, Jason Bradley Bednarz; and many other loved ones. A celebration of Pat’s life will be held in the funeral home Chapel on Saturday, February 4th; beginning with visitation at 2:00 pm followed by a memorial service at 3:00 pm. A reception will follow at Crossroads Church of Dunwoody (formerly North Peachtree Baptist).

Interment of ashes will be at the family cemetery in Bloomingdale GA. Condolences may be left at www.crowellbrothers.com. Arrangements entrusted to the Peachtree Corners Chapel of Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 5051 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, 770-448-5757.

FLOWERY BRANCH

Willie Carolyn Spears Willie Carolyn Spears, age 88 of Flowery Branch, GA passed away on Tuesday, January 31, 2017. Arrangements by: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.

WINDER

BUFORD

Ethel Queen Wofford Ethel Queen Wofford, age 78 of Buford, GA passed away on Wednesday, February 1, 2017. Arrangements by: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.

Joyce A. Stansell Joyce A. Stansell, age 77, of Winder passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2017.

15 photos are available with all Obituaries and Death Notices CALL 770.963.9205 EXT. 1162 OR EXT 1163

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GDP-2/2/2017 -Thursday

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PAGE 8A • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017

New signing day experience for Simpson

Brookwood’s Leonard Warner signs his letter of intent to play football at Florida State University on National Signing Day at the College Football Hall of Fame. Below, Lanier’s Tyler Taylor, left, is all smiles with head coach Korey Mobbs after announcing his decision to attend LSU. (Staff Photos: Jason Braverman)

POWER MOVES

Gwinnett sends 22 players to Power 5 schools

By Paul Thomas

paul.thomas@ gwinnettdailypost.com

ATLANTA — With the Wednesday commitments of Lanier linebacker Tyler Taylor to LSU, Brookwood linebacker Leonard Warner to Florida State and Grayson offensive lineman Tony Gray to Ole Miss, Power 5 schools signed a total of 22 players on National Signing Day. At least one school from each of the Power 5 conferences (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac 12 and SEC) traveled to Gwinnett.

“It’s great to see that,” Buford running backs coach Fryone Davis said.

“This is a phenomenal county that produces top end players throughout the county. For Buford to have five Power 5 guys themselves and to look at the other schools around the county, it’s phenomenal just to see that many schools and that many kids have an opportunity to play at that level. The talent tells me it’s still in Gwinnett and it will be in Gwinnett for a long time.”

ACC schools Duke and Georgia Tech led the way with four Gwinnett signees each. Wake Forest wasn’t far behind with three, Ole Miss and Vanderbilt each had two and Clemson, Florida State, Georgia, Louisville, LSU, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, Oregon State, Purdue, South Carolina, Stanford, Virginia and West Virginia all signed one player each.

Stanford landed the highest rated prospect in Daily Post Offensive Player of the Year Davis Mills. The GAC quarterback is ranked the No. 15 player in the country and the top quarterback by

247sports.com.

Taylor, who’s Lanier teammate Mike Allen signed with Wake Forest, announced his decision early on the day live on Fox 5. He chose LSU over Auburn, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. The four-star linebacker visited LSU two weeks ago and was leaning that way, but said he didn’t make up his mind completely until Tuesday night.

“The conversations I had with (head coach Ed Orgeron) and (defensive coordinator Dave Aranda) and then the early playing time,” he said of what led him to Baton Rouge, La. “They really think I have a shot. They’re not going to give me anything, but they told me they’re going to at least give me a chance to play early.”

While Taylor’s decision was a bit of surprise, it wasn’t as unexpected as Leonard Warner’s choice

earlier in the morning, broadcast live from the College Football Hall of Fame as well.

Warner, a 6-foot-4, 226-pound middle linebacker silently committed to Florida State over Georgia, Georgia Tech and Stanford a week ago during a home visit with head coach Jimbo Fisher and some assistant coaches.

He kept his decision under wraps until Wednesday.

“Their reaction was pretty telling,” he said of the FSU coaches. “They were really happy about it.

Their eyes lit up and their faces lit up and I was glad to see that, just knowing that they really wanted me and they really did hope they had me. I’m looking forward to learning from them and developing with them in the program and as a student athlete myself.”

Grayson offensive lineman joined teammate Breon

Dixon, an early-enrollee, on Wednesday as a future Ole Miss Rebel. Two-way star Jamyest Williams also kept fans in suspense on Signing Day before announcing he was sticking with his commitment to South Carolina despite a hard push from Georgia.

With the 22 2017 signees joining the bevy of Gwinnett grads at Power 5 schools next fall, plenty of conference matchups will have a Georgia flavor to them throughout the country.

“It’s definitely going to be fun seeing the same guys I used to play against,” Virginia bound Mill Creek offensive lineman Tyler Fannin said. “There’s a couple kids I’ve played against up at Virginia now and it’s going to be fun being on the same team with those guys after playing against them.

But it’s going to be a blast playing all the kids I know.”

Buford football held its traditional National Signing Day celebration, always Gwinnett’s earliest at 7:30 a.m., with a familiar figure absent Wednesday.

Jess Simpson, the man who introduced the Wolves’ college signees as head coach for the previous 11 years and attended more ceremonies as a Buford assistant, was busy in his Georgia State football office. The Panthers’ new defensive line coach was hard at work with the rest of the staff of first-year head coach Shawn Elliott, putting the finishing touches on the group’s inaugural recruiting class.

It kept Simpson from his usual early-morning duties for Buford’s signing day, which also meant he didn’t get to celebrate a group of seniors that included his youngest son, Jake, a Wake Forest signee. The Wolves held a special ceremony Tuesday night for Jake’s signing, which his father got to see.

Will Simpson did escape Hammock from his new office later Wednesday to visit with Buford’s seniors and his son at the College Football Hall of Fame, which hosted a gathering of top recruits from each high school.

“I got to see all the seniors at Buford there, hugged their necks and took a picture,” Simpson said.

Signing days of the future will look much like that — minus celebrating his son’s scholarship — as Simpson transitions from Buford head coach to college assistant coach.

Recruiting was a hurried process this season for Elliott and his assistants, who were hired in December. They recruited players at the position they coach and also visited recruits as entire offensive and defensive units.

“The last month’s just been a whirlwind,” Simpson said. “We started the week before Christmas as a whole staff down here. We stayed downtown for a week and tried to begin to build our (recruiting) board, see who we wanted to recruit, see who we could recruit.

We came back for more right after Christmas and couldn’t get out (recruiting after the dead period) until Jan. 12.

“We only had 10 days in front of kids, three official visit weekends. So I feel like to pull off what we did was great. I don’t what all the recruiting people think, but we’re ranked either second, third or fourth in the Sun Belt (Conference). Everybody’s saying it’s one of the best classes we’ve ever signed here. To pull that off, I think all of these coaches did a really good job.”

Georgia State’s first class under Elliott featured five Gwinnett products: Linebacker Victor Heyward (Mill Creek), offensive linemen Jalen Jackson (Grayson) and Chris Sibilia (North Gwinnett), defensive back Jaylon Jones (Dacula) and wide receiver Tamir Jones (Norcross).

Simpson spent time in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina during this recruiting cycle, but he will concentrate on a more familiar recruiting area beginning this spring.

His territory will be Gwinnett, Hall and northeast Georgia, which means trips as a recruiter to his former school, Buford. He didn’t recruit any Buford seniors in this cycle, but figures to be at the high school regularly for future prospects.

That presents another odd situation, sitting across from new Buford head coach John Ford in a college recruiting role, on the opposite side of the desk he sat in for so many years.

“That probably will feel kind of weird,” Simpson said. “But I’ll certainly be excited and proud to do it.”

Simpson finished his busy signing day with a large gathering of Georgia State fans, boosters and alumni designed to celebrate a successful day of recruiting. It was held at Turner Field, the former Atlanta Braves home and now the base for a new era of Georgia State football.

It’s a new era of coaching for Simpson, too, who was ready for some relaxation after Wednesday.

“I don’t think I’ve slept in my own bed but three or four times since Jan. 1,” he said. “It’s been crazy.”

Will Hammock can be reached via email at will.hammock@gwinnettdailypost.com. His column appears on Thursdays.

2017 GWINNETT POWER 5 SIGNEES Clemson QB Chase Brice, Grayson Duke ATH Joshua Blackwell, Buford DE Drew Jordan, North Gwinnett LS John Taylor, Grayson^ OL Will Taylor, Grayson Florida State LB Leonard Warner, Brookwood Georgia P Brooks Buce, GAC^ ATH DeAngelo Gibbs, Grayson*

DE Kolby Wyatta, Shiloh^ Georgia Tech DB Zane Ashley, Peachtree Ridge K Brenton King, Mill Creek DB Da’Meon Williams, Norcross LB TD Roof, Buford Louisville LB Kam Jones, Peachtree Ridge LSU LB Tyler Taylor, Lanier Michigan RB Kurt Taylor Michigan State

ATH Connor Heyward, Peachtree Ridge Northwestern DB Chee Anyanwu, Buford Ole Miss LB Breon Dixon, Grayson* OL Tony Gray, Grayson Oregon State DB Justin Gardner, Shiloh Purdue DL Allen Daniels, Dacula South Carolina QB Drew Dinsmore, Collins Hill^ DB Jamyest Williams, Grayson

Stanford QB Davis Mills, GAC Vanderbilt DE Jalen Pinkney, Norcross OL Jonathan Stewart, Mountain View Virginia OL Tyler Fannin, Mill Creek Wake Forest DE Michael Allen, Lanier OL Sean Maginn, North Gwinnett LB Jake Simpson, Buford West Virginia OL Tyler Thurmond, Buford *January enrolee; ^Walk-on

Former Buford head football coach Jess Simpson talks to former players and coaches at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta on Wednesday during a National Signing Day event. (Staff Photo: Jason Braverman)

ondeck Prep Schedule

Today

SWIMMING & DIVING

9 a.m. — State diving championships at Georgia Tech

TENNIS

• Buford and Jefferson 3:30 p.m. — Discovery at Meadowcreek 3:30 p.m. — Parkview at Duluth Friday

BASKETBALL

5:30 p.m. — Paideia at Wesleyan 6 p.m. — Archer at Newton 6 p.m. — Central at Meadowcreek 6 p.m. — Discovery at Peachtree Ridge 6 p.m. — Duluth at North 6 p.m. — Grayson at Rockdale 6 p.m. — Lakeside-Dekalb at Brookwood 6 p.m. — Lanier at Dacula 6 p.m. — Mill Creek at Collins Hill 6 p.m. — Norcross at Parkview 6 p.m. — Providence at Lakeview Academy 6 p.m. — South at Shiloh 6:30 p.m. — Buford at Johnson 7 p.m. — Berkmar girls at Clarke Central

WRESTLING

• Class AAA state sectionals at Morgan Co. • Class AAAAA state sectionals at Buford • Class AAAAAA state sectionals at Lanier • Class AAAAAAA east state sectionals at Mill Creek • Class AAAAAAA west state sectionals at Lowndes Co.

The Home Teams

Gladiators

Hawks

Falcons

TODAY NEXT UPCOMING

Off

Florida Florida Fri, 7:35 p.m.

Sat, 7:05 p.m.

102.9-FM 102.9-FM

at Houston Orlando Utah 8 p.m.

Sat, 7 p.m.

Mon, 7:30 p.m.

TNT/92.9-FM FSSE/92.9-FM FSSE/92.9-FM

New England^ Off Sun, 6:30 p.m.

FOX/92.9-FM

at Colorado New England Off Sat, 9 p.m.

Feb. 11, 7 p.m.

Swarm FSSE = FOX Sports Southeast, FSSO = FOX Sports South; ^Super Bowl LI in Houston

On TV

Today

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

7 p.m. — Michigan State at Nebraska ESPN 7 p.m. — Missouri at Florida ESPN2 9 p.m. — Arizona at Oregon State ESPN2 11 p.m. — Gonzaga at BYU ESPN2 11 p.m. — Arizona State at Oregon FS1

NBA

8 p.m. — Atlanta at Houston TNT 10:30 p.m. — Golden State at L.A. Clippers TNT

NHL

7:30 p.m. — New York Rangers at Buffalo NBCSP

WOMEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL 7 p.m. — Kansas State at Texas Tech FSSE 7 p.m. — Georgia Tech at Virginia FSSO

In Brief Atlanta Tipoff Club honors dominated by Gwinnett players Gwinnett County was represented well on the Atlanta Tipoff Club’s All-Metro Midseason Team released this week.

The girls honorees included Wesleyan’s Natalie Armstrong, Mikayla Coombs and Amaya Register, Duluth’s Endia Banks, Norcross’ Vanessa Blagmon, Tehya Lyons and Taylor Mason, Collins Hill’s Bria Harmon and Jada Rice, Brookwood’s N’dea Jones, Archer’s Linsey Marchese and Autumn Newby, Buford’s Tory Ozment and Mill Creek’s Morgan Simmons.

The boys team featured Berkmar’s Al Durham, Norcross’ Rayshaun Hammonds and Lance Thomas, Buford’s Alex Jones and Shiloh’s T.J. Massenburg.

North Gwinnett to host meet-andgreet with new head football coach North Gwinnett will host a meet-and-greet with new head football coach Bill Stewart today at 6:30 p.m. in the high school cafeteria.

The event is designed for North supporters, players and families to meet Stewart, who replaced Bob Sphire as the Bulldogs’ head coach last week. Stewart, previously a head coach at Etowah, has been Mill Creek’s defensive coordinator the past three seasons.

— From staff reports

Sports Calendar BASKETBALL

Ongoing through Feb. 8: Complete Skills Academy will have tryouts for girls (grades 4-9) and boys (grades 4-6) travel teams.

Girls tryouts begin Jan. 22, and boys tryouts begin Feb. 5. All tryouts will be at Pinckneyville Middle School. Go to www.completeskillsacademy.com for registration and more information.

RUNNING

Feb. 4: Meadowcreek

Feedback

will host its fourth annual Stampede in the Park 5K Trail run Feb. 4 at Yellow River Park. The course covers soft surfaces and paved trails. All proceeds benefit the high school’s cross country program.

Registration is available at active.com, and more information is available at stampedeinthepark.wix. com/5k1kfunrun. Email stampedeinthepark@ gmail.com with any questions.

• Will Hammock, Sports Editor: will.hammock@gwinnettdailypost.com • Christine Troyke, Staff Writer: christine.troyke@gwinnettdailypost.com • David Friedlander, Staff Writer: david.friedlander@gwinnettdailypost.com • Paul Thomas, Staff Writer: paul.thomas@gwinnettdailypost.com • Scott Smith, Senior Correspondent: scott.smith@gwinnettdailypost.com • To report scores, call 770-339-5850

gwinnettdailypost.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017 • 9A

UGA scores big on signing day

By Jon Gallo

Staff Correspondent

Georgia’s football team took the first step toward erasing a rather forgettable 2016 season by inking what could be a memorable recruiting class that ranked among the nation’s best on Wednesday.

The Bulldogs’ 2017 class ranked third — behind Alabama and Ohio State — by nearly every major recruiting service as coach Kirby Smart put together a class that could be among the best ever assembled in Athens.

For one day, Georgia fans were filled with optimism for what the future had in store after enduring another season where yet another school — Clemson — within easy driving distance from Athens claimed the national title.

Still, the players in Georgia’s 26-member class will be remembered for what they do while in Athens, not for what they did before arriving in the Classic City. Georgia’s class, which features two fivestar recruits, 18 four-star signees and six three-star prospects, is regarded by national recruiting services as Georgia best since 2006, when quarterback Matthew Stafford, defensive lineman Geno Adkins and running back Knowshon Moreno headlined a group which ultimately failed to win a single SEC East Division title outright.

“I think recruiting classes are measured at the end of it, not at the beginning of it,” Smart said.

“Those measurements will be wins, losses, graduation rates, how good of people they turn out to be.”

Georgia is coming off an 8-5 season in which it lost to Tennessee, Florida, Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech in the same season for the first time in school history. But Smart is confident the team’s newest additions will elevate Georgia’s play, emphasizing how great recruiting helped coach Nick Saban turn Alabama from a mediocre squad during his first year

2017 GEORGIA SIGNING CLASS (With name, position, height, weight, hometown/high school/JC) Robert Beal, LB, 6-4, 244, Lawrenceville/Peachtree Ridge Detravion Bishop, DB, 6-3, 200, Dawson/Terrell Co. Trey Blount III, WR, 6-2, 193, Atlanta/Pace Academy Latavious Brini, DB, 6-2, 196, Miami Gardens, Fla./Mater Acad.

D’Antne Demery, OL, 6-6, 312, Brunswick/Brunswick *Jake Fromm, QB, 6-2, 221, Warner Robins/Houston Co. *Deangelo Gibbs, DB, 6-1, 208, Oxford/Grayson Walter Grant, LB, 6-4, 232, Cairo/Cairo *D’Marcus Hayes, OL, 6-6, 321, Perkinston, Miss./Gulf Coast CC Malik Herring, DL, 6-3, 265, Forsyth/Mary Persons *Jeremiah Holloman, WR, 6-2, 193, Covington/Newton Co. Jaden Hunter, LB, 6-2, 213, Atlanta/Westlake Netori Johnson, OL, 6-4, 334, Ellenwood/Cedar Grove Matthew Landers, WR, 6-5, 185, Pinellas Park, Fla./St. Petersburg *Richard LeCounte III, DB, 5-11, 185, Riceboro/Liberty Co. Nate McBride, LB, 6-2, 223, Lyons/Vidalia William Poole III, DB, 6-0, 181, Atlanta/Hapeville Charter *Monty Rice, LB, 6-1, 232, Madison, Ala./James Clemens Justin Shaffer, OL, 6-4, 350, Ellenwood/Cedar Grove Ameer Speed, DB, 6-3, 207, Jacksonville, Fla./Sandalwood Eric Stokes, DB, 6-1, 173, Covington/Eastside D’Andre Swift, RB, 5-9, 220, Philadelphia/St. Joseph’s Prep Andrew Thomas, OL, 6-5, 338, Lithonia/Pace Academy Mark Webb Jr., WR, 6-1, 200, Philadelphia/Archbishop Wood Isaiah Wilson, OL, 6-7, 350, Brooklyn, N.Y./Poly Prep Country Day Devonte Wyatt, DL, 6-3, 301, Decatur/Towers *Early enrollees

to the powerhouse it is today.

Since 2006, every national champion shares a common bond: It scored a top-10 recruiting class in the year that preceded its title run.

“The first lesson is really good players play really good,” said Smart, who was on Saban’s staff in Tuscaloosa for nine seasons, including his last eight as defensive coordinator, before taking over the Bulldogs before last season. “When you get really good players, which we don’t really know for sure until they’ve been there, and (the first class on a full cycle at Alabama) may have been one of the most productive classes I’ve been around, top to bottom.”

Georgia’s class is anchored by its five-star recruits, Jake Fromm, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound quarterback from Warner Robbins, and Isaiah Wilson, a 6-foot-8, 354-pound offensive lineman, from Brooklyn, N.Y. The offensive line, which struggled mightily at times last year, should be bolstered by recruits D’Marcus Hayes (6-5, 320) — the nation’s No. 2 ranked junior college offensive tackle — Andrew Thomas (6-5, 285),

D’Antne Demery (6-6, 304), Netori Johnson (6-4, 325) and Justin Shaffer (6-5, 330).

“Where we didn’t succeed probably last year on the offensive front, we were able to succeed this year with a full recruiting cycle,” Smart said.

Georgia returns star senior running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, but added much-needed depth with running back D’Andre Swift, a fourstar recruit ranked among the nation’s best. He’ll be joined by an array of athletes and receivers who should make Georgia’s offense much more dynamic, even after the versatile Isaiah McKenzie chose to forego his senior season and enter the NFL Draft.

Jeremiah Holloman, Mark Webb, Matthew Landers and Trey Blount will provide plenty of options for an offense that returns tight end Isaac Nata and receivers Terry Godwin, Riley Ridley and Javon Wims.

“For the most part we got big wide receivers,” Smart said. “We want physical guys. To improve our stature, that helps. You need both. When you have 10, 11, 12 scholarships, you want guys that can do both and have a little ‘wiggle’ along with those

big guys.”

Defensively, the class is headlined by one of the nation’s best defensive linemen, Robert Beal (6-3, 217) of Norcross High who played at IMG in Florida his senior year. He’s joined on the line by Malik Herring and Devonte Wyatt.

Meanwhile, Georgia’s linebacking group was bolstered by Monty Rice, Nate McBride, Walter Grant and Jaden Hunter.

“Would I like to have had more (defensive linemen)? Yes,” Smart said.

“Was I pleased with what we had last year? Yes. But ultimately there’s a limit for what you can have.

There’s a target area for what you can have at each position. We’re kind of on our target area in that position. I don’t think you ever turn down a good defensive lineman. They’re just hard to come by, and it’s really hard to get those guys.

Georgia addressed the secondary by signing Richard LeCounte III and Grayson’s DeAngelo Gibbs, who are the nation’s No. 2 and No. 4 safety prospects, as well as cornerbacks Tray Bishop, William Poole III, Eric Stokes, Ameer Speed and Latavious Brini, who was Georgia’s fourth defensive back in the class who is at least 6-2.

“We had to get length.

Any time you can get a 10.4 (second), 10.5 (second) 100-meter (dash) guy, plus 6-foot-plus, 6-2, 6-3 in some cases, good physicality, good strength. I think bulk is a big part of being a good DB nowadays,” Smart said. “You’re tackling Nick Chubb and Sony Michel pretty much every week in the SEC. So when you’ve got 180 pound guys, it’s tough if you don’t hit that 200-pound mark.”

Overall, Smart, at least for the most part, made sure many of the state’s top high school talent stayed in the Peach State. Eighteen of the 26 players are Georgians, and of those 18, 14 are ranked in the ESPN 300.

Tech brings in versatile recruits

By Stan Awtrey

and running back Jordan Ponchez-Mason. Each could become an impact (With name, position, height, weight, hometown/high school) ATLANTA — There player.

Cortez Alston, DL, 6-3, 247, Atlanta/Westminster Jaytlin Askew, DB, 5-11, 187, Douglasville/McEachern may be more versatility in Oliver is a four-star Gentry Bonds, DB, 6-2, 192, Murfreesboro, Tenn./Riverdale this year’s football recruitrecruit who played at MurTariq Carpenter, ATH, 6-2, 188, Ludowici/Long County ing class at Georgia Tech freesboro Oakland. He had Charlie Clark, OL, 6-4, 286, Atlanta/Marist Kelton Dawson, DL, 6-3, 242, Stockbridge/Stockbridge than in previous years. originally committed to Connor Hansen, OL, 6-2, 325, Tallahassee, Fla./Chiles The flexibility in the Michigan State but decided Pressley Harvin III, P, 6-0, 240, Alcolu, S.C./Sumter signing class will allow to go elsewhere because Jaquan Henderson, LB, 6-1, 197, Covington/Newton coaches to move defensive of changes on that coachJerry Howard, BB, 6-0, 215, Rock Hill, S.C./Northwestern Bruce Jordan-Swilling, LB, 6-1, 209, New Orleans/Brother Martin backs to linebacker or vice ing staff. Oliver (6-4, 198) Brenton King, PK, 6-0, 167, Auburn/Mill Creek versa. There are running selected Georgia Tech over Mikey Minihan, OL, 6-3, 275, Honolulu, Hawaii/Saint Louis backs who can play AOle Miss.

Kaleb Oliver, ATH, 6-4, 198, Murfreesboro, Tenn./Oakland back or B-back. There are Bonds played at MurTobias Oliver, QB, 6-2, 175, Warner Robins/Northside Antwan Owens, DL, 6-4, 270, Tallahassee, Fla./Godby defensive linemen who can freesboro Riverdale — Jordan Ponchez-Mason, AB/BB, 6-1, 205, Gallatin, Tenn./Gallatin play inside or on the end. perhaps Oakland’s biggest Zach Quinney, OL, 6-6, 265, Savannah/Savannah Christian Prep It essentially allows the rival — but has a friendly T.D. Roof, LB, 5-11, 205, Buford/Buford Yellow Jackets to slide relationship with Oliver.

Adonicas Sanders, WR, 6-1, 185, North Charleston, S.C./Fort Dorchester guys around on the field Ponchez-Mason comes Avery Showell, ATH, 6-1, 192, Cartersville/Cartersville according to their skills from a program known for Tre Swilling, DB, 6-0, 185, New Orleans/Brother Martin and abilities. producing backs. PonchezBoe Tufele, OL, 6-3, 290, Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne “I’m excited about the Mason is an old-school Dameon Williams, DB, 5-10, 175, Norcross/Norcross athleticism of the class,” runner who lined up in an head coach Paul Johnson I formation and ran over, said. “We got guys who ing staff also reached into play football.” around and past defendcan run and do a lot of Tennessee, South Carolina, Perhaps the biggest plum ers. He is expected to play things. I’m excited to see Florida and Louisiana and came from New Orleans, B-back. where they’ll end up play- extended its grasp all the where the two sons of The other running back ing. We’ll know in three way to California and Ha- former Georgia Tech great signee is Jerry Howard years how good they are.” waii, to fill the ranks.

Pat Swilling both signed. of Rock Hill, S.C., who The Yellow Jackets Georgia Tech signed 13 Bruce Jordan-Swilling, an rushed for more than 3,300 signed 24 players, the larg- defensive players — three outside linebacker, and Tre yards. est group since Johnson linemen, three linebackers, Swilling, a cornerback, Johnson said the most arrived on The Flats. Part four defensive backs and both opted to follow in under-recruited player in of the size can be attributed four “athletes” who will their father’s footsteps. the class may be Adonicas to the decision by several likely end up at linebacker “That says a lot about Sanders of Charleston, players to leave the proor in the secondary. They Pat’s experience here at S.C., the only receiver gram or transfer, as well signed four offensive Georgia Tech,” Johnson signed on Wednesday. as the need to look long linemen, two running said. “He talked about Sanders comes from a term and ensure there are backs, one wide receiver, what the academics meant program that has put four no gaps. one quarterback and two to him and how it helped wide receivers in the NFL. “We addressed some specialists. him get to where he is “I’ve watched him on needs,” Johnson said.

Assistant coach Andy now. He and (wife) Robin tape and talked to every “We’re excited about McCollum said this year’s wanted their two boys to high school coach over the length and speed we signees appear to be ready experience that.” there and they all think signed, especially on deto work.

The Yellow Jackets he’s a really great player,” fense. Overall it’s a really “We’ve got guys who reaped a harvest of three said Johnson, who went good class and addressed a love to play football,” Mc- exceptional recruits from to watch Sanders play lot of our needs.”

Collum said. “A lot of guys Tennessee — outside basketball last week. “I’m Most of the class is from love to be recruited, but we linebacker Kaleb Oliver, excited. He has a chance to Georgia, but the recruitsigned guys who love to cornerback Gentry Bonds come in and play.”

Staff Correspondent

2017 GEORGIA TECH SIGNING CLASS

10A • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017

gwinnettdailypost.com

national signing day

Grayson’s Williams, Gray make dramatic reveals especially after tweets and interviews from family members.

However, the three-time LOGANVILLE — EndDaily Post All-County ing weeks of speculation, selection announced his two of the remaining undecision to stick with decideds among Grayson’s South Carolina, donning a star-studded senior football Gamecocks hat instead of class made their college a spiffy-looking Georgia decisions public during hat that was also in front of National Signing Day cerhim at the table. emonies Wednesday at the Williams said that a school’s cafeteria. subsequent visit he made Defensive back/athlete to South Carolina last Jamyest Williams, who had Grayson’s Tony Gray, an Ole Miss signee, is all smiles at weekend only strengthNational Signing Day event at the College Football initially committed to South the ened the relationships he Hall of Fame in Atlanta. (Staff Photo: Jason Braverman) Carolina last summer, reafhad already made with the firmed his pledge and chose finalists Memphis and against IMG Academy Gamecocks players and the Gamecocks over a late Florida State. back in August. coaching staff. flirtation with Georgia.

For Williams, the deciBut the 5-foot-7, “It’s just the relationship Meanwhile, offensive sion seemed to be over 170-pound speedster took I have with (head) Coach lineman Tony Gray signed when he committed to an official visit to Georgia (Will) Muschamp. ... I feel his national letter-of-intent South Carolina prior to the weekend of Jan. 20-22, I’m going to go there and to attend Ole Miss, choos- Grayson’s nationally telesparking rumors that he build as a man and also ing the Rebels over other vised 2016 season opener might flip to the Bulldogs, academically,” said WilBy David Friedlander david.friedlander@ gwinnettdailypost.com

2017 GWINNETT SIGNEES

BY COLLEGE Air Force TE Michael Sobczyk, Mountain View RB Joe Thomas, Mill Creek Arkansas Pine Bluff TE Robert Sims, Norcross Army RB Ty Harris, Dacula DL Dean Powell, Buford DB Julian McDuffie, Shiloh Ball State DB Demetrius Murray, Grayson Bethel University WR Cortez Buckholts, Duluth ATH Brandon Loftin, Duluth Berry College WR Marc Riley, Collins Hill OL Luke Seale, Grayson Brevard College OL Nick Eubanks, Brookwood Catwaba College FB Zack Waters, Buford Citadel DE Aaron Brawley, Grayson Clemson QB Chase Brice, Grayson Coastal Carolina OL Jack Franklin, Mill Creek DB Cantorian Weems, Brookwood College of the Canyons DB Trey Pratt, Dacula Colorado State DE Ellison Hubbard, Grayson Columbia LB Cameren Carter OL Hank White, Buford University of Cumberlands DB Demaris Smith, Parkview Duke ATH Joshua Blackwell, Buford DE Drew Jordan, North Gwinnett LS John Taylor, Grayson^ OL Will Taylor, Grayson Ellsworth C.C. DB Chase Isler, Dacula Elon RB Jasen Johnson, Mountain View Ferrum College DB Quincy Brooks, Shiloh Florida State LB Leonard Warner, Brookwood Fort Scott C.C. WR Braxton Curry, Collins Hill DB Askri Smith, Collins Hill Gannon LB Mylon Harris, Central Gwinnett Garden City C.C. WR Des Howard, Collins Hill Gardner-Webb OL Garrett Scoggins, Buford Georgia P Brooks Buce, GAC^ ATH DeAngelo Gibbs, Grayson* DE Kolby Wyatta, Shiloh^ Georgia Military College TE Ben Johnson, South Gwinnett DL Brandon Jones, Dacula OL Nathaniel Wellington, Collins Hill Georgia Southern DE Jason Johnson, Peachtree Ridge DB Garbentz Josue, Mountain View Georgia State DL Steven Banks, Grayson^ LB Victor Heyward, Mill Creek OL Jalen Jackson, Grayson DB Jaylon Jones, Dacula WR Tamir Jones, Norcross OL Chris Sibilia, North Gwinnett* Georgia Tech DB Zane Ashley, Peachtree Ridge K Brenton King, Mill Creek DB Da’Meon Williams, Norcross LB TD Roof, Buford Georgetown College WR Michael Cole, Norcross OL Andre Harding, Norcross OL Duke Holland, Peachtree Ridge DB Tyrese Montgomery, Norcross DL Devin Stevenson, Norcross Heidelberg University DB Jordan Williams, Shiloh Hiram College WR Quavious Hayes, Shiloh Hutchinson C.C. OL Devin Bennett, Norcross ATH Hunter Sims, Central Gwinnett Indiana Wesleyan WR Josh Stroud, Lanier Jacksonville University WR Donovan Grier, Shiloh OL Clarke Hubbard, Grayson RB Deion Slade, Parview Johns Hopkins LB Ryan Weed, Wesleyan Kennesaw State LB Jack Ness, Buford LaGrange LB Gabriel Nieves, South Gwinnett Linsey-Wilson DB Robert Carter, Parkview Louisville LB Kam Jones, Peachtree Ridge LSU LB Tyler Taylor, Lanier Mercer WR Edmond Graham, Mill Creek DB Jamar Hall, Mill Creek DB Davis Markham, GAC Michigan RB Kurt Taylor Michigan State ATH Connor Heyward, Peachtree Ridge Miles College

RB Tyler Ranel, Archer Morehead State DE Chrinovic Mukulu, Discovery DB Tyler Reese, Shiloh Mount St. Joseph WR Devin Bradley, Collins Hill New Rock Prep Academy ATH Vern Bellamy, Central Gwinnett LB Paul Brewer, Central Gwinnett QB Nick Partlow, Central Gwinnett Nicholls College DE David Milon, Mill Creek LB Demetrias Rias, Mill Creek WR Purvis Terrell, Shiloh QB DeAnthony Walker, Shiloh Norfolk State DE C.J. Riggsbee, Collins Hill North Alabama DE Kedarius Davis, Hebron Christian North Carolina LB Malik Robinson, South Gwinnett North Georgia Academy LB Elliot Cummings, Central Gwinnett Northwestern DB Chee Anyanwu, Buford Northwood University ATH Christian Pinkney, Duluth Notre Dame College OL Carson Costas, GAC UNC Charlotte QB Mic Roof, Buford Ohio University DE Ayoola Ogun-Semore, Mill Creek Ole Miss LB Breon Dixon, Grayson* OL Tony Gray, Grayson Oregon State DB Justin Gardner, Shiloh Penn WR Preston Norwood, Mill Creek Pike Univeristy DEIvan Sledge Pikeville K Zaniel Phillips, North Gwinnett Point University DB Emmanuel Nnaife, Peachtree Ridge K Eric Riveria, Meadowcreek Presbyterian LB Airon Buick, Meadowcreek OL/DL Tim Wilkins, Central Gwinnett Princeton DL Sam Wright, Archer DT Connor Mills, Buford DB Matthew Winston, Mill Creek Purdue DL Allen Daniels, Dacula Reinhardt University LB Malik Carrassco, Central Gwinnett DB Omari DeBose, Grayson RB Anthony Presto, Mill Creek WR Dondre Sanderson, Peachtree Ridge WR Ace Williams, Mill Creek Samford LB Adam Moon, Wesleyan DB Cole Williams, North Gwinnett^ Savannah State DB Ismail Abdul, Grayson Seton Hill OL Dylan Artman, Mill Creek Sewanee WR Tanner Alexander, Buford Shorter University DL Hanock Berhane, Parkview RB Jonathan Postell, Collins Hill LB Jared Wilson, Shiloh South Carolina QB Drew Dinsmore, Collins Hill^ DB Jamyest Williams, Grayson Southern Mississippi LB Devin Thomas, GAC Stanford QB Davis Mills, GAC Tennessee Tech DB Ethan Wilson, Lanier^ Tulane LB Monty Montgomery, Norcross DE Cameron Sample, Shiloh Valdosta State OL Dez Ikpa, Dacula DB Jarius Jones, Central Gwinnett Vanderbilt DE Jalen Pinkney, Norcross OL Jonathan Stewart, Mountain View Virginia OL Tyler Fannin, Mill Creek Wake Forest DE Michael Allen, Lanier OL Sean Maginn, North Gwinnett LB Jake Simpson, Buford Wesleyan University TE Babila Fomuteh, Dacula West Georgia WR Jacobe Burrell, Norcross WR Evan Sturgill, Grayson West Virginia OL Tyler Thurmond, Buford Western Carolina OL Nick Campbell, Mill Creek DB Quinton Thames, Grayson Western Kentucky LB Juwuan James, Lanier RB Josh Samuel, Central Gwinnett Western Michigan DB K.J. Anderson, Buford Wofford RB Ryan Lovelace, North Gwinnett *January enrolee ^Walk-on

liams, who accumulated 940 yards and 15 TDs on offense and 42 combined tackles and assists and three interceptions on defense after transferring to Grayson for his senior season and helping the Rams to the Class AAAAAAA state title this past season.

“It was tough. It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve made to leave Georgia, but I enjoyed the process.”

Meanwhile, Gray had not made any public commitments throughout the year since coming to Grayson after transferring from Central Gwinnett last summer.

But like Williams, the 6-foot-5, 289-pound lineman said a late visit last weekend — in his case, to Oxford, Miss. — gal-

vanized his decision to choose Ole Miss.

Unlike Williams, however, it was Gray’s father who made the pick known when he unzipped a sweat jacket to reveal an Ole Miss T-shirt.

The hard part, he said, was keeping his decision secret until Wednesday’s announcement.

“It was pretty tough,” Gray said. “(Wednesday) has been absolutely fun.

I’ve got my brother with me and everybody with me. Basically, it was (a) family (atmosphere that led to the decision for Ole Miss). Coach (Hugh) Freeze did a heck of a job recruiting me and explaining to me that, ‘You’ve got to do this,’ or ‘You’ve got to do that.’”

Hawks have their biggest haul yet

By Paul Thomas and David Friedlander Staff Writers

Mill Creek set a new program mark on Wednesday with 16 players signing scholarships on National Signing Day. Head coach Shannon Jarvis expects that list to grow in the coming weeks as well.

The results are not surprising for a team that has won back-to-back region titles and reached the state semifinals each season as well.

“Chad Rogers our recruiting coordinator has done just a tremendous amount of work just as far as pushing transcripts, paperwork, phone calls, lining up visits,” Mill Creek head coach Shannon Jarvis said. “That’s what people don’t understand, is all the visits and all the communication that has to take place with just one kid being recruited. Very proud of our program.

Obviously it’s something we want to continue and something we stress to our kids as far as academics to create these opportunities and then we’ve got very good players that have put the athletic abilities behind that.”

The Hawks sent a handful of players to high Division I schools like Tyler Fannin (Virginia), Brenton King (Georgia Tech), Joe Thomas (Air Force), Matthew Winston (Princeton) Ayoola Ogun-Semore (Ohio University), Preston Norwood (Penn) and Victor Heyward (Georgia State).

But Jarvis said he was just as thrilled for some of his guys going to smaller schools, like offensive lineman Dylan Artman.

The senior offensive lineman was moved into the starting lineup late in the year and will be headed to Seton Hill University in Pittsburgh, which is where he’s originally from.

“Those are the little underlining stories that sometimes the recruiting analysts don’t see that we do as coaches,” Jarvis said. “You’re as proud of that as you are of a kid like Tyler who’s going to Virginia. It’s all about the right fit. It’s about the right kids being in the right situation and then when you’re able to go back to where he’s originally from it’s even neater.”

Artman is one of four Mill Creek offensive lineman to sign, joining Fanning, Nick Campbell (Western Carolina) and Jack Frankling (Coastal Carolina). Some Hawks will still be teammates at the next level, including Jamar Hall and Edmond Graham at Mercer and Demetrias Rias and David Milon at Nicholls College

Mill Creek’s Victor Heyward, a Georgia State signee, at the National Signing Day event at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. (Staff Photo: Jason Braverman)

and Anthony Presto and Ace Williams at Reinhardt.

Taylor twins double their fun by signing with Duke Grayson’s Will and John Taylor didn’t necessarily set out to become a package deal with regard to their college recruitment.

However, the twin brothers were thrilled to finalized their football future together at Duke — Will as a scholarship offensive lineman and John as a walk-on long snapper — on Wednesday.

“I’ve always wanted to stick with him,” said Will, a 6-foot-4, 280-pound center. “I knew I wanted him to make the same (decision), even though it was under different circumstances. I’m glad things worked out that way. We have a good relationship.”

As a walk-on, John, in particular, had to look beyond football for his college decision, though he said Duke made that decision easier.

“What attracted me to Duke was the education,” said John, who said he intends to major in computer science. “Then the fact Will committed kind of made it a no-brainer.”

quarterback.

“Here at Grayson, we play against the best competition there is,” said Brice, who was 173 of 269 for 2,830 yards and 33 TDs with only three interceptions in helping the Rams to the Class AAAAAAA state title last season. “I get to go against the best defense every day (in practice). I’ve gotten to play teams like IMG Academy, Roswell, with all kinds of athletes. So I believe in my ability to play at the next level with a team like Clemson.

“I know Lawrence is coming in and he feels the same way. He’s a great quarterback. And Hunter Johnson is already there.

I’m just excited to compete. It’s been a while since we all competed (for playing time). Now in college, you have to earn your spot, and I can’t wait.”

Shiloh’s 2017 class shows plenty of potential Despite just a 2-8 season on the field, Shiloh put together an impressive 2017 senior class for Wednesday’s National Signing Day. The group of 12 includes Division I signees Justin Gardner (Oregon State), Julian McDuffie (Army) and Cameron Wait gives Brice plenty Sample (Tulane), plus to think about with his Kolby Wyatt, who will future at Clemson be a preferred walk-on at Like teammate Kurt Georgia.

Taylor, Grayson quar“It’s just a culmination terback Chase Brice had of their hard work,” Genbeen committed to his erals coach Ryan Andrews school of choice — in his said. “I’ve always said we case, Clemson — for well work them their whole over a year before Nacareers and this is their tional Signing Day. payment for all the hard The early commitwork.” ment gave the 6-foot-2, Garnder, a 6-foot-2, 195-pound signal caller 160-pound cornerback plenty to think about who finished with 25 during the many months tackles and three intercepleading up to Wednesday’s tions for his senior season ceremonies. last fall, is someone who Among the many things Andrews believes can be on his mind were joining particularly successful at his uncle, former Grayson the next level. head coach Mickey Conn, “Justin is going to go who is now an assistant out there and be able to on Dabo Swinney’s staff, do some special things,” as well as what figures to Andrews said. “Justin be an intense battle with turned 17 in October, so recently enrolled five-star his ceiling is unbelievable. signee Hunter Johnson He probably has another and highly touted Cartinch and a 1/2 to grow and ersville junior quaterback of course he’s going to Trevor Lawrence, a recent get stronger and bigger so Clemson commit, for the I’m excited for what he’s right to succeed Deshaun going to do.”

Watson as the Tigers next Sample is another of

the Generals’ seniors who has a lot of potential for college success, and he credits the resume of Tulane coach Willie Fritz to convincing him to head to New Orleans and join the Green Wave.

“Coach Fritz has a great coaching staff,” said Sample, who finished 2016 with 50 tackles and four sacks. “He was at Georgia Southern and helped turn that program around and I feel like he’s going to be the same at Tulane and I want to be a part of it.”

Mountain View sets new mark with four Division I signees After reaching the state playoffs for the first time in school history, Mountain View football set another program mark on National Signing Day. The Bears had a program-best four players sign to play Division I football on Wednesday.

Offensive tackle Jonathan Stewart led the way by signing with Vanderbilt in the SEC. Tight end Michael Sobczyk inked with Air Force, running back Jasen Johnson with Elon and defensive back Garbentz Josue with Georgia Southern.

“This is a special group,” head coach Nick Bach said at the College Football Hall of Fame.

“This is the group that got the program turned around in essence. These guys proved how hard work pays off. They’ve been with us all four years.

They’ve been through the tough times and now they got to taste some success this year, which was nice and rewarding for them.

They earned it. This is a really good group. This is the most Division I signees we’ve ever had.”

Bach began to put Stewart on college coaches radar last year after he convinced the 6-foot-8, 292-pound lineman to join the football team.

Despite his lack of experience, plenty of Power 5 schools came calling over the summer, but Stewart committed to Vanderbilt on Christmas day and stuck with the Commodores.

“The thing that made Vanderbilt the choice for me was it combines the two things I’m most fond of, which is quality education with competition football,” he said. “Being one of the top schools in the nation, while competing in one of the top conferences, the SEC, just gives players a lot of opportunity.”

Josue was another under the radar prospect, but after recording 68 tackles during the year, he had plenty of Division I attention after the season. He chose to stay in-state and will be strong safety for Georgia Southern.

gwinnettdailypost.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017 • 11A

national signing day

Buford’s signee list as big as ever it all pay off and just see how

By Paul Thomas much it’s worth is just really paul.thomas@gwinnettdailypost.com special.”

Another year, another Buford is also sending a double-digit list of signees for pair of players to Ivy League Buford on National Signing schools in Connor Mills Day. (Princeton) and Hank White The Wolves had 14 football (Columbia). K.J. Anderson players sign scholarships on (Western Michigan), Jack Wednesday, including five Ness (Kennesaw State) and with Power 5 schools.

Gearrett Scoggins (Gardner“It’s great just to be able to Webb) signed with Division I have this many kids sign and schools as well. have the opportunity to go to Playing for his father won’t school,” running backs coach be the only adjustment TD Fyrone Davis said. “That’s Roof will have to make next what’s important.” fall. He’ll also be without his Linebacker TD Roof signed twin brother, quarterback Mic Buford linebackers T.D. Roof (Georgia Tech), Jake Simpson Roof, who is headed to the with Georgia Tech, where his dad Ted Roof played and is the (Wake Forest) and Jack Ness (Kennesaw State) pose for pic- University of North Carolina tures after the Wolves’ National Signing Day ceremony on Charlotte. defensive coordinator. Safety Wednesday morning. (Photo: David McGregor) Chee Anyanwu was flipped “A little bit,” TD Roof said from Richmond to NorthWest Virginia and linebacker of it. Just the opportunities we of it being weird. “But you’ve western in the last few weeks, Jake Simpson signed with all have because we all play got to split up sometime, it athlete Josh Blackwell signed Wake Forest. together and work together, I might as well be now. I wish with Duke, offensive lineman “It’s a big day,” Simpson know how much work these the best to him and I think he’ll Tyler Thurmond signed with said. “I’m excited to be a part guys have put in. Just seeing do good things at Charlotte.”

Longhorns defensive trio make picks

By Paul Thomas

paul.thomas@gwinnettdailypost.com

Over the last three years, defense has been the calling card of the Lanier Longhorns.

That was reflected on Wednesday as three of the unit’s cornerstones signed scholarships on National Signing Day. Linebacker Tyler Taylor is headed to LSU, linebacker and leading tackler Juwuan Jones to Western Kentucky and defensive end Michael Allen to Wake Forest.

Defensive back Ethan Wilson will also walk on at Tennessee Tech and wide receiver Josh Stroud signed with Indiana Wesleyan. During their careers, the Lanier seniors went undefeated in the regular season twice and won two region championships.

“It’s a big deal and you hope it’s just the launching point for those kids,” head coach Korey Mobbs said at the College Football Hall of Fame. “You hope it’s just the beginning of great things to come. They’ve played really good on that side of the ball, and a lot of them helped us out offensively this year as well. Just proud of them and I think we’ve kind of developed a standard on defense to be really proud of.”

Taylor is a four-star prospect and chose LSU over finalists Auburn, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Allen, a 6-foot-6 pass-rusher was the highest-rated player ever to pledge to the Demon Deacons when he committed in the summer.

Despite interest from other schools he never wavered in his commitment.

“I think they did a great job of recruiting him,” Mobbs said. “I think he realized it’s not about where, it’s about fit and Wake is on the way up.

They’ve had two really good years back-to-back and I’m just really impressed with how they recruited him and know that they’ve got a great plan for him.”

Jones also proved to be a man of his word with the Hilltoppers, despite a coaching change. When he committed to Western Kentucky Jeff Brohm was the coach, but he bolted for Purdue after the season. Note offensive coordinator Mike Sanford took over the program and Jones stayed true.

“As soon as they changed coaches I was one of the first recruits they hit up, telling me that everything is going to be OK and Western Kentucky is still going to be what they’ve been the past couple of years,” he said of why he stayed.

Brookwood trio near and dear to Philip Jones Brookwood’s trio of signees are a group that are near and dear to head coach Phillip Jones’ heart.

Leonard Warner (FSU), Cantorian Weems (Coastal Carolina) and Nick Eubanks (Brevard College) are part of senior class that played for Jones their entire varsity

all happy that we’re blessed to get to play ball at the next level. We’re glad that we’ll be able to represent our school at the next level and hopefully past college and into the NFL, hopefully some of us will make it. It just means the world to be able to do this.”

The moment was extra special for Maginn, who was offered by Wake Forest just two weeks ago. He was originally committed to play at Arkansas State, but couldn’t pass up the chance to play in the ACC. “They started recruiting me Lanier’s Michael Allen, a Wake Forest signee, speaks at the Na- back in October,” he said of tional Signing Day event at the College Football Hall of Fame in Wake Forest. “I took an unofAtlanta. (Staff Photo: Jason Braverman) ficial visit when they played Syracuse and they’ve just been careers.

Wright recorded 48 tackles recruiting me ever since. They “These three guys mean this season, 12 for losses and offered me last Sunday and a lot to me,” he said. “The four sacks. As a thrower last as soon as they offered me I whole senior class means a season he was the state runner- knew this is what I wanted to ton to me. The ones that are up in the shot put and finished do.” fortunate enough to have the sixth in the discus. opportunity to go play at the “It was really important to Central’s signing class next level and the ones that be, just because I feel like I features plenty of diversity aren’t as well are very close have an opportunity to branch Each signing class is special to my heart. I’m excited about out with either,” he said of to Central Gwinnett football these three guys and the opplaying both. “I really enjoy coach Todd Wofford, and the portunities they have.” both of them so it was really Class of 2017 is no exception.

Weems and Eubanks had great when I got the opportu“To me what we try to do been committed in the weeks nity to do both.” as a staff and as a program leading up to Signing Day, but Ranel committed to Miles is to try to work just as hard Warner announced his deciCollege over the weekend for this as we do on a Friday sion live on Fox 5 Wednesday after they said he could play night,” Wofford said of this from the College Football Hall two sports. For Archer he was year’s class of 11 signees. “To of Fame. a running back and kick reme this is just as important or The four-star All-County turner. He’ll move to receiver more important than anything linebacker chose the Semiin college. On the diamond he we do on a Friday night.” noles over Georgia, Georgia played in the outfield for the The group of signees Tech and Stanford. He had Tigers and hit .365. who put ink to paper during made his decision a week ago, “Right when I arrived on Wednesday’s National Signbut didn’t go public with it. campus it felt like home away ing Day has several different “Coach Fisher went over from home already,” he said of qualities that make it unique to to his house last week and he Miles. “I loved the coaches, I Wofford. silently committed,” Jones loved some of the recruits that One is the fact that it said. “Honestly I didn’t know went on a visit with. I visited includes offensive/defensive until the next day what he was Fort Valley, Tusculum Lenoir tackle Tim Wilkins, who signed going to do. He’s considered Rhyne, but they just weren’t to play at Division II Presbyall of his options that were the same as Miles. Finding a terian, where Wofford got his available to him really until school that would let me do undergraduate degree from and the last second and made a both football and baseball played for the Blue Hose. great decision so I’m happy was very hard to find. I’m just But what really stands out for him.” blessed that Miles found inter- about the Black Knights’ est in me.”

Class of 2017, according to Archer’s signees will be Wofford, is its diversity, which two-sport athletes in college Sibilia celebrates before ranges from running back Josh Archer’s two senior signees going back to class Samuel to NCAA Division I are very different players, Six North Gwinnett seniors Western Kentucky to linebackbut they each were looking celebrated National Signing er Malik Carrassco at NAIA for something similar when Day on Wednesday. power Reinhardt to a trio of it came to finding the right But only one had to go to seniors — Vern Bellamy, Paul college. class. That was offensive line- Brewer and Nick Partlow‚ Sam Wright and Tyler Ranel man Chris Sibilia, who is an who will go on to New Rock both wanted the chance to be early-enrollee at Georgia State Prep Academy in Covington. two-sport athletes in college and had to be back on campus “It’s a good mix,” Wofford and each found a school will- for a 2 p.m. class. said. “From Josh going to ing to oblige them. Wright, “Really enjoying the Western Kentucky that plays a defensive end/linebacker campus right now,” he said Alabama and everybody else will play football and throw at the College Football Hall in the nation, that was a bowl shot put/discus for Princeton. of Fame. “Really enjoying team the last few years, all Ranel, a receiver, will play the team, school, everything the way to some guys going football and baseball for Miles is going great. Love the new to junior colleges to get more College. coaching staff. I think the looks.”

“Sam and Tyler both have whole team is rallying behind For Samuel, the decision been consummate student them, so I think we’re all look- to head to Western Kentucky athletes on and off the field,” ing forward to this upcoming over offers from Minnesota, Archer head coach Andy year.”

Georgia Southern and KenDyer said. “They’ve just done North also had running nesaw State, among others, everything the right way and back Ryan Lovelace (Wofwasn’t an easy one, especially they’re getting rewarded for it. ford), kicker Zaniel Phillips after former head coach Jeff So that’s the fun part for me.

(Pikeville), offensive lineman Brohm took a job at Purdue in I’m not their dad, but I get to Sean Maginn (Wake Forest) December. carry that same pride that their and defensive end/linebacker However, it didn’t take dads do, their dads and their Drew Jordan (Duke) sign long after getting to know moms. Just because you’ve scholarships on Wednesday. the new coach, former Notre seen them do the right things Defensive back Cole Williams Dame offensive coordinator and you’ve seen them get will be a preferred walk-on at Mike Sanford, for the 6-foot, rewarded for them. It has a lot Samford.

200-pound running back, who to do with a lot of other things “We’re just all blessed,” ran for 972 yard and eight TDs just besides playing football.” Sibilia said. “We all fought this past season, to reaffirm his The 6-foot-1, 240-pound for this opportunity, we’re commitment.

2017 GWINNETT SIGNEES

BY HIGH SCHOOL

Archer DL Sam Wright, Princeton RB Tyler Ranel, Miles College Brookwood OL Nick Eubanks, Brevard College DB Cantorian Weems, Coastal Carolina LB Leonard Warner, Florida State Buford WR Tanner Alexander, Sewanee DB K.J. Anderson, Western Michigan DB Chee Anyanwu, Northwestern ATH Joshua Blackwell, Duke DT Connor Mills, Princeton LB Jack Ness, Kennesaw State DL Dean Powell, Army QB Mic Roof, UNC Charlotte LB TD Roof, Georgia Tech OL Garrett Scoggins, Gardner-Webb LB Jake Simpson, Wake Forest OL Tyler Thurmond, West Virginia FB Zack Waters, Catawba College OL Hank White, Columbia Central Gwinnett ATH Vern Bellamy, New Rock Prep Academy LB Paul Brewer, New Rock Prep Academy LB Malik Carrassco, Reinhardt LB Elliot Cummings, North Georgia Academy DB Jarius Jones, Valdosta State LB Mylon Harris, Gannon QB Nick Partlow, New Rock Prep Academy RB Josh Samuel, Western Kentucky DE Ivan Sledge, Pike ATH Hunter Sims, Hutchison C.C. DL/OL Tim Wilkins, Presbyterian Collins Hill WR Devin Bradley, Mount St. Joseph WR Braxton Curry, Fort Scott C.C. QB Drew Dinsmore, South Carolina^ WR Des Howard, Garden City C.C. RB Jonathan Postell, Shorter University WR Marc Riley, Berry College DE C.J. Riggsbee, Norfolk State DB Askri Smith, Fort Scott C.C. OL Nathaniel Wellington, Georgia Military College Dacula DT Allen Daniels, Purudue TE Babila Fomuteh, Wesleyan University RB Ty Harris, Army OL Dez Ikpa, Valdosta State DB Chase Isler, Ellsworth C.C. DL Brandon Jones, Georgia Military College DB Jaylon Jones, Georgia State DB Trey Pratt, College of Canyons Discovery DE Chrinovic Mukulu, Morehead State Duluth LB Cameren Carter, Columbia ATH Christian Pinkney, Northwood University WR Cortez Buckholts, Bethel University ATH Brandon Loftin, Bethel University GAC P Brooks Buce, Georgia^ OL Carson Costas, Notre Dame College DB Davis Markham, Mercer QB Davis Mills, Stanford LB Devin Thomas, Southern Miss Grayson DB Ismail Abdul, Savannah State DL Steven Banks, Georgia State^ DE Aaron Brawely, Citadel QB Chase Brice, Clemson DB Omari DeBose, Reinhardt LB Breon Dixon, Ole Miss* ATH DeAngelo Gibbs, Georgia* OL Tony Gray, Ole Miss OL Clarke Hubbard, Jacksonville University DE Ellison Hubbard, Colorado State OL Jalen Jackson, Georgia State DB Demetrius Murray, Ball State OL Luke Seale, Berry College WR Evan Sturgill, West Georgia LS John Taylor, Duke^ RB Kurt Taylor, Michigan OL Will Taylor, Duke DB Quinton Thames, Western Carolina DB Jamyest Williams, South Carolina Hebron Christian DE Kedarius Davis, North Alabama Lanier DE Michael Allen, Wake Forest LB Juwuan Jones, Western Kentucky LB Tyler Taylor, LSU WR Josh Stroud, Indiana Wesleyan DB Ethan Wilson, Tennessee Tech^ Meadowcreek LB Airon Buick, Presbyterian K Eric Riveria, Points University Mill Creek OL Dylan Artman, Seton Hill University OL Nick Campbell, Western Carolina OL Tyler Fannin, Virginia OL Jack Franklin, Coastal Carolina WR Edmond Graham, Mercer DB Jamar Hall, Mercer LB Victor Heyward, Georgia State K Brenton King, Georgia Tech DE David Milon, Nichols College WR Preston Norwood, Penn RB Anthony Presto, Reinhardt DE Ayoola Ogun-Semore, Ohio University LB Demetrias Rias, Nichols College RB Joe Thomas, Air Force WR Ace Williams, Reinhardt DB Matthew Winston, Princeton Mountain View RB Jasen Johnson, Elon DB Garbentz Josue, Georgia Southern TE Michael Sobczyk, Air Force OL Jonathan Stewart, Vanderbilt Norcross OL Devin Bennett, Hutchinson C.C. WR Jacobe Burrell, West Georgia WR Michael Cole, Georgetown College OL Andre Harding, Georgetown College WR Tamir Jones, Georgia State LB Monty Montgomery, Tulane DB Tyrese Montgomery, Georgetown College DE Jalen Pinkney, Vanderbilt TE Robert Sims, Arkansas Pine Bluff DL Devin Stevenson, Georgetown College DB Da’Meon Williams, Georgia Tech North Gwinnett RB Ryan Lovelace, Wofford DE/LB Drew Jordan, Duke OL Sean Maginn, Wake Forest K Zaniel Phillips, Pikeville OL Chris Sibilia, Georgia State* DB Cole Williams, Samford^ Parkview DL Hanock Berhane, Shorter University DB Robert Carter, Lindsey-Wilson College RB Deion Slade, Jacksonville University DB Demarius Smith, University of the Cumberlands Peachtree Ridge DB Zane Ashley, Georgia Tech ATH Connor Heyward, Michigan State OL Duke Holland, Georgetown College LB Kam Jones, Louisville DE Jason Johnson, Georgia Southern DB Emmanuel Nnaife, Point University WR Dondre Sanderson, Reinhardt University Shiloh DB Quincy Brooks, Ferrum College DB Justin Gardner, Oregon State WR Donovan Grier, Jacksonville University WR Quavious Hayes, Hiram College DB Julian McDuffie, Army DB Tyler Reese, Morehead State DL Cameron Sample, Tulane WR Purvis Terrell, Nichols College QB DeAnthony Walker, Nichols College DB Jordan Williams, Heidelberg University LB Jared Wilson, Shorter University DE Kolby Wyatt, Georgia^ South Gwinnett TE Ben Johnson, Georgia Military College LB Gabriel Nieves, LaGrange College LB Malik Robinson, North Carolina Wesleyan LB Adam Moon, Samford LB Ryan Weed, Johns Hopkins *January enrollee; ^Walk-on

12A • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017

SUPER BOWL LI Atlanta Falcons vs. New England Patriots Sunday, 6:30 p.m. (Fox) • Houston

Quinn mandates team chemistry force behind the team concept. The individual accolades don’t mean as HOUSTON — Atlanta’s much to him as the team participation in Super ones. He’s a really unique Bowl LI is confirmation guy.” of an A-plus grade in Dan He’s also a physical Quinn’s chemistry experi- freak, one Patriots defenment. sive back Devin McCourty The Falcons started 5-0 said would require extra last season but drifted out attention to contain on of contention in a tornado Sunday. Jones had 180 of turnovers and injuries. yards and two touchdowns Quinn furthered his push against the Green Bay with general manager Packers in the NFC ChamThomas Dimitroff to form pionship. a tighter group, one that “For me I enjoy being bonds beyond football and successful with my teamaccepts accountability on a mates and my brothers, brotherhood level. enjoying it together, the “I’m not sure if you can communication and the pinpoint rock bottom — to success of the unit,” Jones lose close games and not said of his selfless apget the results you want is proach. difficult, but the advice is Ryan said Wednesday keep plugging and if you that getting Jones incontinue the work you can volved early is important, get the results you want,” but noted the 6-foot-3, said quarterback Matt Ryan. 220-pound matchup nightAt 13-5 and days from mare changes the game the second Super Bowl in just by being present. franchise history, Quinn “He changes how dehas come close to accomfenses are going to defend plishing that mission in his us,” Ryan said. “I know second season as a head (offensive coordinator) coach.

Kyle (Shanahan) will do “To see our practices, if a good job moving him two guys can really battle around and giving him opand make each other better portunities.”

— that part has come to The Falcons elevated life,” Quinn said Wednesfour rookies to starting day at The Westin Memo- roles this season on a rial City. “Toughness is a defense that finished the talent. We want that part to regular season 27th in jump out.” points allowed. Quinn said And togetherness is a the statistics are not a true mandate. reflection of what he sees All-Pro wide receiver on film, pointing to a pair Julio Jones, one of nine of playoff blowouts as players Quinn and the Exhibit A and B. coaching staff made a Quinn traces the succhief, has been a vocal cess primarily to commuleader in bringing the team nication, a byproduct of concept to the field and chemistry. beyond. Chiefs are defined “They spend a good bit leaders who help deterof time off the field, ‘hey, mine the order of things let’s get together and study in Atlanta, from practice third down, let’s see how framework to gameday the DBs are going to play music. At a position known us,’” Quinn said. “When for third-person thinking, you have that connection Julio is all about the team. to say ‘I’m going to play “For the two years Julio for something bigger than and I have been together, myself,’ man you have a there has only been one chance to do something time when he came to good. Our team wasn’t that me — he didn’t say I need way last year. It was more the ball he said, ‘I’ll make of a neighborhood. The best it happen,’” Quinn said. way to pay that forward is “He’s really the driving to be totally prepared.”

By Jeff Reynolds Staff Correspondent

Atlanta’s Mohamed Sanu (12) reacts with fellow wide receiver Julio Jones (11) and quarterback Matt Ryan (2) after catching a touchdown pass on Jan. 1 at the Georgia Dome. (Photo: Dale Zanine-USA Today Sports)

gwinnettdailypost.com

Heat stay hot against Hawks

By Walter Villa The Sports Xchange

MIAMI — Goran Dragic scored 27 points as the Miami Heat won their ninth straight game, defeating the Atlanta Hawks 116-93 on Wednesday night at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Dion Waiters added 20 points for Miami, and Hassan Whiteside contributed 18 points and 18 rebounds.

The Heat (20-30), which was 19 games under .500 only two weeks ago, has the longest active win streak in the NBA. It’s also the Heat’s longest win streak in three years and the third-biggest run by an NBA team this season. Only the Golden State Warriors (12 straight wins) and the Houston Rockets (10) have longer runs.

Atlanta (28-20) was led

by Kent Bazemore’s 14 points.

The game featured a skirmish with 5:53 left in the fourth quarter. After grabbing an offensive rebound, Whiteside tried to go back up but was fouled hard and to the floor by Taurean Prince.

Miami center Hassan Whiteside (21) shoots the ball as Atlanta’s Dwight Howard (8) defends during the first half Wednesday at American Airlines Arena. (Photo: Steve Mitchell-USA Today Sports)

James Johnson was the first Heat player to run over and shove Prince.

Whiteside, who landed on his back, was on the ground, motionless, for a

couple of minutes before he finally got up. Prince and Johnson were ejected.

Whiteside remained in the game and made one of two free throws after the foul. He then completed the possession by making a jump hook.

Johnson, who injured his right shoulder on the final play of Monday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets, finished with 16 points, including 13 in the first half.

Atlanta led early, 7-2, but then Miami got rolling with an 11-0 run, and the Heat led for the rest of the quarter, taking a 29-22 lead.

Miami never trailed in the second quarter and took a 62-47 lead into halftime. Miami had a 30-6 edge in points in the paint in the first half and shot 52.1 percent. Atlanta shot 40.5 percent.

Dragic had 15 points in the third quarter — his highest-scoring period of the season — as Miami extended its lead to 94-71.

Miami was never challenged in the fourth quarter and finished the game with a 54-36 edge in paint points, holding Atlanta to 39.1 percent shooting.

Tigers power past Georgia Tech Atlanta on Jan. 12.

Georgia Tech (13-9, CLEMSON. S.C. — Se- 5-5), which was coming nior guard Avry Holmes off back-to-back upset scored 18 points to lead victories against No. 15 five Clemson players Florida State and No. in double figures as the 20 Notre Dame, got a Tigers topped Georgia career-high 25 points and Tech 74-62 on Wednesday nine rebounds from junior night in an ACC game at center Ben Lammers.

Littlejohn Coliseum in Sophomore guard Clemson, S.C. Shelton Mitchell added 15 Clemson (13-8, 3-6 points for Clemson while ACC) won its second sophomore center Elijah straight after a six-game Thomas had 12 points and league losing streak and 10 rebounds. avenged a 12-point loss Junior forward Donte to the Yellow Jackets in Grantham and senior forThe Sports Xchange

ward Jaron Blossomgame added 11 and 10 points, respectively, for the Tigers.

Clemson closed the first half with a 7-0 run to take a 32-24 lead at the break, then wasted little time in seizing control by jumpstarting the second half with a 7-2 run. The Tigers’ lead swelled to 53-32 with 9:34 left.

The Yellow Jackets used a late 13-1 run to pull within 65-58 with 2:13 remaining, but that was as close as Georgia Tech

would get.

Holmes was nearperfect from the floor, connecting on 6 of 8 shots, including all four of his 3-point attempts.

Lammers made 12 of 18 shots from the floor and also had nine rebounds for the Yellow Jackets.

Georgia Tech also got 12 points and nine rebounds from guard Josh Okogie, a Shiloh grad, 12 points from guard Tadric Jackson and 11 points from forward Quinton Stephens.

Gillon scores 43 as Orange tops Wolfpack The Sports Xchange

ence), which has its first three-game winning streak RALEIGH, N.C. — since a 4-0 start to the Andrew White scored season. the first seven points of Maverick Rowan scored overtime, and John Gillon 18 of his career-high 31 finished with a career-high points in the first half for 43 points as Syracuse N.C. State (14-9, 3-7). won away from home for Rowan’s four-point play the first time this season, closed the gap to 96-93 in defeating North Carolina with 1:30 left in the extra State 100-93 on Wednessession. day night at PNC Arena.

Abdul-Malik Abu had White ended up with 19 points, Terry Hennine of his 28 points in derson scored 16 points overtime after Syracuse before fouling out, Dennis rallied from a 16-point Smith Jr. added 13 points deficit in the last eight and Omer Yurtseven had minutes of regulation.

10 points for N.C. State, Gillon, a graduate sewhich trailed for most of nior transfer from Colothe first 22 minutes. rado State, made 9 of 10 Syracuse trimmed a 3-point attempts and all 14 75-59 hole to 77-76 with of his free throws. more than five minutes to Tyler Lydon added 15 play. points for Syracuse (14-9, Gillon’s two free throws 6-4 Atlantic Coast Confer- tied it at 84-84 with 39.4

seconds left.

Rowan’s 3-pointer at the 10.5-second mark put the Wolfpack up before Gillon answered with a 3-pointer with 1.8 seconds left.

Florida St. 75, Miami 57 CORAL GABLES, Fla. — Florida State went on a 20-2 run that started in the final minute of the first half and ran over the first seven minutes of the second to record a 75-57 victory over Miami in Atlantic Coast Conference basketball here Wednesday night.

The 15th-ranked Seminoles (19-4, 7-3 ACC) continued to roll from there to snap a brief twogame losing streak.

The Hurricanes (14-7, 4-5 ACC) had won their last two games but could

not keep up with the taller, deeper ‘Noles.

Forward Johnathan Isaac and guard Dwayne Bacon led four Florida State double-figure scorers with 15 points each.

No. 9 Virginia 71, Virginia Tech 48 CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — No. 9 Virginia led for all 40 minutes Wednesday night a 71-48 win over in-state rival Virginia Tech at John Paul Jones Arena.

Virginia (17-4, 7-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) put three players in double figures, led by guard Devon Hall with 17 points. Isaiah Wilkins added a career-high 15 points and pulled down nine rebounds, while London Perrantes chipped in with 14 points.

GWINNETT GRADS

Butler sisters playing big role for Georgia Southern

By Will Hammock

averaged double figures the past

Monday night in Tennessee’s 76-74 upset of fourth-ranked ern after playing her freshman South Carolina, the Volunteers’ In an up-and-down season, season at Furman — she sat out third win over a top-10 team this Georgia Southern’s women’s the 2013-14 season because of season. basketball team has won three of the transfer.

The junior had 21 points, its last four, and sisters Patrice Sierra, a 6-2 junior, jumped eight rebounds, five assists, two and Sierra Butler have continued into the Eagles’ starting lineup blocks and two steals in her third to play well during the stretch. last season as a sophomore. straight 20-point game. It was The two Norcross grads start She averages 5.6 points and a the first SEC loss of the season alongside each other in the team-high 6.9 rebounds, which is for South Carolina (18-2, 8-1), Eagles’ frontcourt. eighth in the Sun Belt. which also saw a 30-game home “Patrice and Sierra were both “Sierra’s more of a power play- winning streak in conference play very good players for us and er, a rebounder,” Hembree said. end. Buford’s Kaela Davis had 15 they’re doing really well (at Geor- “Patrice is really good around the points for the Gamecocks. gia Southern),” Norcross girls basket, has nice touch on the ball.”

DeShields averages a teamcoach Angie Hembree said. “Both Georgia Southern’s recent play high 17.7 points this season, as were part of state championship has improved its overall record well as 6.6 rebounds and 3.5 teams here. I’m not surprised at to 8-12 and its conference mark assists. all that they’re doing well.” to 5-5.

Patrice, a 6-foot-2 senior, averBooker, Bayer ages a team-high 15.1 points, BASKETBALL contributing at Wofford which ranks fifth in the Sun Belt Two of Wofford’s top reserves Conference. She also ranks 11th DeShields powers upset this season are young players in the Sun Belt in rebounding of Gamecocks from Gwinnett.

(6.7) and fourth in free-throw Norcross grad Diamond Freshman Cairo Booker of shooting (83.9 percent). She has DeShields played a huge role Wesleyan has made an immediwill.hammock@gwinnettdailypost.com three seasons at Georgia South-

ate impact in 15.9 minutes per game, averaging 5.5 points, 2.2 assists, 1.7 rebounds and a teamhigh 1.1 steals.

Teammate Marissa Bayer, a sophomore from Collins Hill, averages 5.4 points and 3.5 rebounds in 16.3 minutes.

McGriff had eight points, seven rebounds and six blocks.

BASEBALL

Craport named All-American Georgia Tech junior Trevor Craport, a Norcross grad, was named this week to the National McGriff’s big game nets honor Collegiate Baseball Writers AsDuluth’s Alyah McGriff sociation All-American Team. earned Georgia College’s Bobcat Craport, a third-team selecAthlete of the Week honor, the tion, was second on Tech last school’s top performer in all season with a .352 batting sports, for the fifth time this average and started 56 games, season on Tuesday.

52 at third base. He had seven McGriff earned the award for home runs and 31 RBIs as a her 30-point game, on 12 of 16 sophomore, his first in the field shooting, in a 57-54 win over after focusing on pitching as a Young Harris. She scored 15 of freshman. her points in the fourth quarter, Gwinnett Grads is a column rallying her team to a victory. that runs on Thursdays spotlightShe also had nine rebounds and ing achievements of past Gwinthree blocked shots. nett standouts. Coaches and In Georgia College’s other parents are urged to send suggesgame last week, a 70-41 win tions via email to will.hammock@ over Georgia Southwestern, gwinnettdailypost.com.

0202_GDP_THUR_CLASS_Classifieds 2/1/2017 3:35 PM Page A13

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017 • A13

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017

ACCEPTING S APPLICATIONS

65% 6 5% off readers 5% re ea ade ad ders who who h sp s pend $15 50 perr wee ek o on gro grrroceries ocerries ie es re read ead ad a D Da Daily iily ly or o Su S und nda day ay Ne ewspaper ewspaper ew sp pap per

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ELEGANT TRADITIONAL! Lovely 4BR & 2.5BA 2 Story is Simply Elegant!! Open floor plan, family room with firplace and includes an above ground pool.

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