The Paper February 19, 2015 Edition

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New early learning center opens. 3B

Jackson Co. suit against authority over

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority (UOBWA) has prevailed in litigation with Jackson County over the management of the Bear Creek Reservoir as the Supreme Court of Georgia declined to hear Jackson County’s appeal of earlier rulings.

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority provides water to the citizens of the counties of Athens-Clarke, Barrow, Jackson and Oconee.

The Court of Appeals of Georgia declined last December to hear Jackson County’s appeal of a Piedmont Judicial Circuit judge’s ruling. Judge Joseph Booth had ruled against Jackson County’s attempt to force a recalculation of the established yield of the Bear Creek Reservoir.

The lawsuit has been ongoing since 2008.

“We are pleased that this lawsuit is finally over and that the courts hearing this case

Supreme Court of Georgia declines to hear appeal in case against Upper Oconee Water Basin Authority on yield of shared reservoir have all validated the UOBWA’s position,” said Melvin Davis, chairman of the UOBWA and the Oconee County Board of Commissioners. “The UOBWA looks forward to working together with Jackson County and the other member counties as we provide water to the citizens of our four counties.”

The UOBWA’s success in the lawsuit has an added benefit for Barrow County, Oconee County and Jackson County as those counties have the opportunity to refinance some of the bonds issued to fund the construction of the Bear Creek Reservoir project.

The existence of the lawsuit had been a roadblock to proceeding with the bond transaction, which is currently estimated to

achieve $4 million in savings for the taxpayers of the three counties.

“I am thrilled that we can now proceed with saving money for the taxpayers,” said Chairman Davis.

At the authority’s meeting in late January, the board decided to authorize measures to allow the refinancing to get under way should the lawsuit be resolved.

Jackson County’s legal counsel, which included Michael Bowers and Jim Hollis of Balch & Bingham, had attempted to show the authority had breached its intergovernmental agreement entered into on July 22, 1996 with its refusal to recalculate the established yield of the reservoir after the drought.

It is projected by the authority that the reservoir can produce 58 million gallons per day (mgd). A study by the consutling firm Gurnsey was used by Jackson County to show that the actual yield would be 24 mgd so the lawsuit was seeking to challenge the withdrawal volumes by Athens-Clarke during drought.

On Tuesday, Bowers confirmed Monday’s court order denying certiorari, meaning Georgia’s high court would not review the previous rulings.

“The case is over,” said Bowers. “As their (Jackson County’s) lawyer, I think they were right but Judge Booth, the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court said otherwise and that’s unfortunate. That’s the ruling and we’ll live with it.”

Bowers declined to comment on the bond refinancing or further on the lawsuit.

UP NEXT: More on the refinancing and the financial benefits on the horizon for participants in the reservoir project.

Commerce EMS station will proceed

I SEE ICICLES

County property on South Elm Street will be site of new structure

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

LeAnne Akin The Paper

These youngsters were in the backyard of their Traditions of Braselton subdivision home on Tuesday exploring the impacts of the overnight ice storm which posed challenges for emergency responders, utility linemen and families without power. The winter weather closed most schools. The icicles were pretty but they were also hazardous –bringing down tree limbs, power lines and poles.

Winter weather blankets area in ice Impacts still being felt with potential for more by week’s end

From staff reports

The cleanup was under way Tuesday from a North Georgia ice storm that began Monday as a mild threat but evolved into a tree-snapping, power-sapping, road-blocking mess.

A thick coating of ice on trees and power lines left tens of thousands in the area without power and sent trees and limbs crashing into roadways, homes and yards.

Jackson Electrical Membership Corporation (EMC), which at its peak reported more than 76,000 without power, calls the storm “one of the worst ice storms in Jackson EMC’s history.”

Between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Jackson EMC personnel, with an additional 350 workers from across the Southeast working alongside them, restored power to 33,240 customers.

Jackson EMC estimated the vast majority of remaining outages would be repaired by late Wednesday; however, winds gusting to 20 mph could pose problems with temperatures predicted to only reach 22 degrees on Thursday when lows could drop into the teens.

Braselton Town Hall was among the Jackson EMC customers without power off and on Monday evening and into the morning hours Tuesday so the town hall did not open on Tuesday. Workers were out, however, according to Town Manager Jennifer Dees, dealing with weather impacts on the town’s water and wastewater operations. Braselton Police were also assisting during the storm.

Also without power Tuesday was Hoschton City Hall which is served by Georgia Power. The company’s representative Holly Crawford said Tuesday night

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the company had more than 100,000 customers in the dark in the region during the peak of the storm, but Crawford said the company hoped to have 95 percent back online by Wednesday afternoon.

Jackson County Schools planned for a regular schedule for Wednesday with power to all schools restored on Tuesday and bus routes were being carefully monitored by the transportation department.

Those who remain without power are being excused if absent or tardy because of the extreme weather challenges. Also the Barrow County School System was also excusing lateness or absence but planned to be back in class on Wednesday.

Hall County Schools and City of Gainsille schools were closed Wednesday but Gwinnett County was back in session.

West Jackson Fire Department responded to 22 incidents – ranging from a reported structure fire to trees down – between 8:50 p.m. Monday and 6 p.m.

Tuesday.

“A big thank you to our volunteer firefighters and off-duty staff for helping to provide service during this weather event,” said the department’s Facebook page.

Jackson County Emergency Management Agency director Steve Nichols provided a snapshot of the occurrences in JackFor The Paper

Jackson EMC linemen in Hall County work Tuesday to repair power lines damaged by iceladen trees. See more weather scenes at ClickThePaper.com

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Volume 9, Number 16 Health Obituaries Puzzles Schools Sports

son County. There were a total of 950 calls to the 911 Center on Feb. 16 and 885 on Tuesday, according to Nichols’ 6 p.m. update which also logged 130 fire department calls and 40 EMS calls including 57 lines downs and 252 trees down.

Jackson County Sheriff Janis Mangum had high praise for 911 dispatchers, EMC personnel, law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel as well as other government workers who helped clear fallen trees and limbs from roadways.

She also asked for prays for busy fast food workers.

“The storm put a whipping on us,” she said.

Nichols also reported Jackson County EMA, in cooperation with the City of Commerce, requested that the American Red Cross open a warming and living shelter in Commerce for Tuesday night and early Wednesday because of continued power outages and below freezing temperatures. The shelter was open to anyone who needed get warm for needed a place to stay for the night.

The long-awaited new Commerce EMS station will be constructed sooner rather than later as the Jackson County Board of Commissioners Monday voted to approve the $514,264 negotiated bid from Keith Hayes Construction.

The construction, on South Elm Street in Commerce, will be funded from Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) V collections.

The motion was made by District 2 Commissioner Chas Hardy and seconded by District 4 Commissioner Dwain Smith, with Hardy calling for the vote as Commissioner Tom Crow continued to lobby for another – yet undetermined – site location for the new EMS facility.

A Jan. 19 memo to commissioners from County Manager Kevin Poe indicated negotiations with the low bidder began after the $653,514 bid exceeded the $600,000 budget Poe had hoped for. Meeting with the architect and Keith Hayes about changes in the design which could drop construction costs netted a revised bid price of $514,264.

With Jackson County’s road department performing much of the site work, the county could save $52,500. Other deducts included a pre-engineered metal building for the exterior for a $46,587 savings plus another $25,100 savings realized by eliminating three sides of bricks by going with pre-finished metal building trim panel and trim.

The remainder of the $600,000 budget would be accounted for in architect fees, landscaping, furnishings, site work including engineering and contingency. The building is similar to the West Jackson EMS station for which the county paid $624,982 from SPLOST dollars.

Chairman Crow, who said he was pleased with the negotiated bid price, drew attention to a county map showing 5-mile circles representing the service areas for the current stations of West Jackson, South Jackson, Jefferson and Nicholson as well as the proposed sites for the new Commerce EMS station and a future Plainview station which is slated to be the next constructed. Crow said placing the Commerce EMS structure on county-owned property in front of the Lanier Tech campus in Commerce would leave some Maysville area citizens outside the 5-mile radius while putting some Commerce area residents triple-covered by the Commerce, Jefferson and Nicholson EMS circles.

Crow maintained that the commission should make a more ethical decision and place the new station a little further north so that the gap could be eliminated as the site should serve the area for 20 to 30 years. Crow suggested that he unaware of any board authorization of the site for which the bids were solicited.

“I was not aware anything else had been done and I didn’t see anywhere in the minutes that we had approved this site,” said Crow.

Commissioner Hardy said the 5-mile radius is only a guideline.

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The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

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cal reaction on possible impacts.

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Lease-purchase to be finalized

“We have been looking at this for several years,” said Hardy, who reminded that a previously donated piece of land near Interstate 85 had been turned back to the property owner because development costs were prohibitive for the county’s use of that land.

Hardy also commented on issues which have arisen with a parcel identified but not secured on Nunn Road. He said the downtown Commerce identified site is viable because it is county-owned, is located on a thoroughfare with accessibility and visibility and low sitework costs.

“If we have to purchase property that will put the rest of the project in jeopardy,” said Hardy.

Commissioner Smith said, “We’ve been putting this around and have already spent some money on it… the spot’s been picked out [since last fall].” The deplorable conditions of the existing EMS structure prompted Smith to say, “Termites are holding hands or the building would fall down. We need to get it rolling.”

Commissioner Jim Hix agreed, saying, “I think we need to move forward.” He suggested making some slight adjustment to the future site of the Plainsville EMS station to address the coverage issues.

“We need to consider not just the location but the road mileage,” said Smith.

Commissioner Ralph Richardson asked what the alternative was, and it was noted that a delay in construction would come if a new site had to be identified and acquired.

“We’ve got to get this building built,” said Smith.

With the vote taken, Chairman Crow announced the motion was carried.

Funding transporation Related to House Bill 170, Poe, who serves as the legislative liaison for Jackson County, said the General Assembly has been listening to the concerns of the counties and school boards and changed the original legislation.

He said the Board of Managers has now endorsed the legislation but concerns remains for the school systems.

Chairman Crow said raising additional fund for transportation infrastructure – both construction and repair – can be accomplished with H.B. 170 which legislators say is not a tax. “But we don’t really know if that is the case,” said Crow.

A plus to the excise tax is that it would have to be used for transportation and not redirected to other areas such as the General Fund as the state has done with other collections.

“There are still reservations for the school systems since there is not a way to make them whole,’ said Crow, who noted that school systems would not be able to use excise tax funds for construction of its buildings.

UP NEXT: More on the legislation and lo-

BRIEFLY Specials offered the Feb. 28 for those needing GED testing Make 2015 the year you make your dreams a reality when you pass the GED test.

Until Feb. 28, there are two special offers to help you get started.

In the first offer, you can take the GED Ready practice test for $1. Included with this offer you: save $5 on each practice test you take, find out if you’re ready to take the GED test, get personal study plans to help you score higher and see the exact pages and chapters you need to study.

In the second offer, you save $10 on your first GED test. This is good for your first GED test subject. You can combine this with other state and local offers and save even more. Start with any of the four test subjects: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Math, Science or Social Studies. You must schedule by Feb. 28 to save.

For information on these offers, call Gwenn Evans at the Jackson County Adult Education Center at 706-3359549 or email at gevans@ laniertech.edu South Jackson Elementary School is also partnering with Lanier Technical College to provide Adult Education GED preparation classes. and there are also other locations.

Literate Community Program hosting March 5 fundraiser Ask yourself: Are You Smarter Than A 10-YearOld? That is the question that some people will answer when the Jackson County Certified Literate Community Program holds the second annual “Are You Smarter Than A 10-YearOld” event at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, in the Jackson EMC auditorium.

Teams of three people each will be competing to become the winning team for 2015. Last year’s winning team, City of Jefferson, will

Farah Bohannon The Paper

The commission determined that South State Bank will be the financial institution through which the county will be lease-purchasing vehicles and equipment.

While staff had originally recommended US Bancorp for the arrangement, the commission had discussed at its Feb. 2 work session the possibility of going instead with South State Bank which has a physical presence in Jackson County.

US Bancorp submitted an interest rate of 1.14 percent and South State Bank’s submission was 1.3 percent, meaning an interest rate difference of $2,045. Others bidding on the lease-purchase were Bank of America, 1.189 percent; and Capital One Public Financing, 1.75 percent.

The lease-purchase will be for 10 Sheriff’s cruisers, two fleet pickup trucks, a dive boat for the Emergency Management Agency and a new EMS ambulance. A second ambulance will also be obtained as a replacement for a unit wreck late last year. Insurance proceeds will cover $200,000 of the estimated $245,000 replacement cost, according to Poe, who said $181,126 of the $955,000 total lease-purchase will be coming from the Fiscal Year 2015 budget.

Chairman Crow said he is a South State Bank customer and would not vote.

Braselton Downtown Development Authority members Robbie Bettis, Cindy Phillips, Sally Beggs, Cheri Winham and Clay Eubanks show off the Classic Main Street Program designation plaque at the recent meeting.

DDA celebrates Main Street’s classic status

By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper. com

than happy to attend and ensure we are all on the same page.”

Phillips encouraged the group to set committee meeting times before the next DDA meeting, which will help prepare for the budget meeting in June.

If the committees are in need of funding, things will already be in place. Two to three meetings before the budget meeting should be sufficient.

Phillips segued into the 2015 work plan which was distributed to each DDA member, and it was approved. She said that one of the most crucial parts of that plan is that each committee should set manageable goals with a timetable and of course financial points.

“If you all find something

that you want to add to this plan, that is certainly fine,” said Phillips. “That is the point of having a separate committee. It also gives you an idea of what the other committees are doing and it will help all of them relate to each other.”

Vice Chairman Clay Eubanks gave his economic development report and mentioned the presentation by Hudson Tang and Judy Williams at the Friday meeting. Williams gave a presentation of the site plan by the commercial and residential buildings with some plans for the cotton gin property. She explained that the first focus will be the actual cotton gin building and the possibility of other new commercial

Braselton Downtown Development Authority (DDA) celebrated the Georgia Classic MainStreet Program at its recent meeting with Cindy Phillips, new DDA chairwoman, and Downtown Director Amy Pinnell signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Public hearings were held on two requests The agreement is beto create a special tax district. tween the Main Street Barry Lord represented the owner of the Program and the Town of two lots in the 18-lot Wicklow Subdivision for Braselton, DDA board of which a special tax district was requested. directors and Pinnell, who There were no comments and the motion said she would pass it on to to approve the tax district was made by Comthe Georgia Department of missioner Hardy and seconded by CommisCommunity Affairs as soon sioner Hix. It was unanimously approved. as possible.

In the other request, Traditional QRS subAt the DDA’s February division has 207 lots with 139 owner-signameeting, Phillips brought tures obtained for 67 percent favor rate.

See DDA, 5A up the DDA committees, Commissioner Richardson asked how which consist of organimany of the lots were vacant and the commiszation, design and prosion was advised 195 are currently vacant. motion. Phillips, with Staff recommended four conditions and BEST KEPT SECRET in Hall & Forsyth County the help of an outside Commissioner Richardson made the motion source are in charge for approval with the conditions. Commission of organization, while Smith seconded and the special tax district Sally Beggs and Cheri was unanimously approved. & Winham are design and promotion will be Robbie Bettis and Jennifer Kidd,the newest In other business, a resolution was apmember, with whom proved endorsing the placement of a historiBettisand agreed to discuss cal marker at the original site of Cross RoadsAntiques responsibilities.

Collectibles Show: School.

“We do want to get Join us for these dates: A ceremony at which the resolution will be these committees up Friday February 1st and: running,” 9 AM to said 5 PM presented will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, PhilFeb. 22, at the original site ofSaturday Cross Roads February 2nd : “I 9 AM 5 PM lips. do to encourage School off Cedar Drive in Nicholson. the SundayInFebruary 3rdeverybody : 10 AMto to bring 4 PM in fall of 2013, the school was relocated to Herioutside members for Breakfast & Lunch served by Angie’s Cafe tage Village at Hurricane Shoals Park. help and feel free to 770-967-9080 invite me to your meetings, I would be more 5540 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch, GA 30542

Hearings on special tax districts

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be trying to hold on to their title for another year.

The teams will have an opportunity to get help from 10 year old students nominated from each school in Jackson County. If a team misses a question, they will have an opportunity to pay a mulligan and remain in the game.

This is a fun, familyfriendly event that will be enjoyed by all. Admission is free but donations will be accepted to help the adult literacy programs in Jackson

County.

There will also be a silent auction with lots of wonderful items to bid on and take home.

Event sponsorships are available along with team sponsorships and ads for the program. Donations of items for the silent auction and items for door prizes would be greatly appreciated.

If you would like additional information on the event, call Sandra Fite at 706-367-8574.

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HEALTH

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

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Gainesville hospital now President of Northeast ranks No. 2 in overall Georgia Medical in care behind Mayo Clinic Gainesville to be Smith

By JEFF GILL

Regional staff

For tops in overall hospital care in the U.S., there’s the globally known Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and then, there’s Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville.

That’s according to CareChex, an independent health care quality rating service, which has ranked NGMC No. 2 in a recent study of “America’s Top Quality Providers.”

The CareChex study includes virtually all general, acute, nonfederal hospitals in the U.S. and measures them across several categories, including quality of medical care, outcomes of care and patient satisfaction, according to its website.

Hospitals do not apply to be part of the CareChex study, and they cannot opt out of being rated.

“To be named one of the top three hospitals in the nation, between other industry icons like Mayo Clinic’s flagship campus in Rochester, Minn., and University of Michigan Health System is quite an honor,” said Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System.

“Our clinical staff, support staff, providers, board members, volunteers and leaders bring a passion for excellence to the table each day — striving to be better tomorrow than we are today — and it shows,” she said.

Kevin Bloye, spokesman for Georgia Hospital Association, said the high ranking is “a tremendous honor ... not just for every employee and physician at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, but for the entire Gainesville area that relies on (the health system) for its health care needs.”

The only other Georgia hospitals in the top 100 of the 342 hospitals that were judged in overall hospital care are University Hospital in Augusta, at No. 43; Redmond Regional Medical Center in Rome, at No. 57; and Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville, at No. 93.

The study also ranked NGMC No. 1 in Georgia for overall medical care and overall surgical care, as well as tops in cardiac care, orthopedic surgery, vascular surgery,

women’s health, neurological care and pulmonary care.

“I think that understanding how the rankings are done is important,” said Dr. Jeffrey Marshall, an interventional cardiologist with NGMC’s Heart Center.

Noting specifically cardiac care, he said that “by looking at Medicare data, they can look at how many people were admitted with heart attacks, how many people had angioplasty and heart surgery, and then they can trace how those people did.”

Marshall added, “I’m not surprised that we’re that good, because we have great people and that’s what hospitals are about.”

He said two of NGMC’s interventional cardiologists trained at the University of Michigan. And several hail from Emory University, including Marshall, who served as director of cardiac catheterization labs for Emory Healthcare for a decade.

“It’s pretty easy to replicate or, in fact, exceed the care of much bigger organizations, because they are unwieldy and can’t respond to changes as quickly as we can,” Marshall said.

Dr. Charlie DeCook, an orthopedic surgeon with The Longstreet Clinic, said NGMC has become a destination center for orthopedic care. And Dr. Darrell Scales, an orthopedic surgeon, said NGMC Braselton in South Hall will have the same level of care once it opens later this year.

Dr. Priscilla Strom, chief of medical staff and a general surgeon with The Longstreet Clinic, said “being rated No. 1 across so many different specialties speaks volumes about how our entire medical staff works together to improve the health of our community in all we do.

“The awards are just a byproduct of a team effort that saves and improves lives, one person at a time.”

NGMC “has delivered high-level, consistent care for the years that we have been doing our (ratings),” said Bob Stahlsmith, vice president of Comparion Medical Analytics, based in Greenville, S.C. CareChex is a division of Comparion.

Gwinnett Medical Center grows to give convenience for Hamilton Mill area Gwinnett Medical Center (GMC) administration recently announced the further expansion of services at the Hamilton Mill location.

Located across from Duncan Creek public library in Hamilton Mill Station, the expanded location now includes primary care, cardiac and women’s services and walk-in care in addition to the current imaging facilities, which feature mammograms, x-ray and ultrasound.

“Our mission is to provide quality health services to our community,” said Phil Wolfe, president and CEO of GMC. “Based on that, it was important that we grow along with the Hamilton Mill community to continually provide convenience and options in medical care.”

Notable Hamilton Mill campus additions include the GMC Specialty Center which provides cardiology physician services, cardiac testing and lab services for patients. The public can also take advantage of: ■■ Services from Covenant Family Medicine whose staff can address a range of patient’s needs from pediatrics to seniors alike; ■■ A new walk-in care service available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to provide care to patients needing prompt care, such as in the case of respiratory illnesses; ■■ An on-site women’s health navigator who can help guide women and their families through health care experiences at any stage of life; and, ■■ A new lab center with improved access to area patients where both walk-ins and appointments are welcome.

“We anticipate adding additional services in the near future to include other specialists and expanded walkin care hours,” said Wolfe.

The expanded campus is located at Teron Trace. For additional information, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ hamiltonmill.

About Gwinnett Medical Center Gwinnett Medical Center is a nationally-recognized, not-for-profit healthcare

For The Paper

Pictured here is patient Lisa Stauffer alongside Wyly O’Brien, a cardiac specialty tech at Gwinnett Medical Center’s Hamilton Mill location. Stauffer is undergoing a stress test where she will walk briskly as O’Brien observes her heart rate, rhythm and monitors her blood pressure. O’Brien, who works alongside a mid-level medical staff member or physician, is looking for abnormal rhythms with exercise. network with acute-care hospitals in Lawrenceville and Duluth. In 2014, Gwinnett Medical Center was recognized by Georgia Trend as the top large hospital in the state. Offering cardiovascular, orthopedic and neuroscience specialty care as well as a full continuum of wellness services, GMC’s 4,800 as-

sociates and 800 affiliated physicians serve more than 400,000 patients annually. To learn more about how GMC is transforming healthcare, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter. org or follow us at facebook. com/gwinnettmedical, twitter.com/gwinnettmedical or youtube.com/gwinnettmedical.

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Louis G. Smith Jr., has been named the president of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville, according to an announcement from Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS).

He will start in this role on March 2.

“During our exhaustive, nationwide search for candidates and thorough interview process, it became evident that Louis has demonstrated core values that align closely with those of Smith our Health System – respectful compassion, deep interdependence, responsible stewardship and passion for excellence,” said Burrell. “His extensive healthcare experience spans decades, and his involvement in civic groups like local chambers of commerce and Rotary speak to his commitment to community. We’re excited to welcome him to the team.”

Smith has more than 21 years of healthcare experience, most recently serving as chief executive officer of Memorial Hermann Northeast Campus in Houston, Texas, since 2008. Prior to that, he served in senior leadership roles at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital and Memorial Hermann’s Spiritual Leadership Institute. In May 2014, Smith received Memorial Hermann’s highest honor – the Dan S. Wilford Spirit Award – which recognized his “integrity, spirituality and com-

passion for patients, family members, employees and volunteers.” Prior to moving to Texas, Smith served as Vice President of Hamilton Health Care System in Dalton.

“I feel blessed to have the opportunity not only to join a nationally respected and awarded organization like NGMC, but also to join a giving and active community like Gainesville,” says Smith.

“I look forward to continuing NGMC’s legacy of excellent patient care while working with every member of the team to continually improve the patient experience.”

Smith received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mississippi College and a master’s degree in health administration from Medical College of Virginia-Virginia Commonwealth University. He and his wife, June, are parents of a daughter and son and plan to reside in Gainesville.

ABOUT NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), a 557-bed community hospital in Gainesville, is rated Georgia’s #1 Hospital (CareChex®) and one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals (Truven Health Analytics®).

NGMC is home to a medical staff of more than 500 physicians serving almost 800,000 people in more than 13 counties across the region. Learn more at www.nghs.com.

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The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

Obituaries Nita Cole

Died Feb. 14, 2015 Oneita “Nita” Long Cole, 80, of Hoschton, died Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015.

Born Sept. 4, 1934, in Danielsville, she was a 1949 graduate of Ila High School in Ila. She was a retired general manager for Mitchell Volkswagen Company in Forest Park. She was preceded in death by her husband, James O. Cole; and sister, Rowena Long.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Scott Cunningham of Flowery Branch; grandchildren, Scott and Kyra Cunningham and Emily Nicole Cunningham, all of Flowery Branch; greatgrandchildren, Irene and Buddy Sexton of Danielsville and Merle Logue, Ocala, Fla.; and partner, Thomas R. Clarke of Hoschton.

Funeral services were held Monday, Feb. 16, 2015, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home with the Rev. Marvin Mason officiating.

Interment was in the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton.

Flanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Buford The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Alvin B. Conyers

Died Feb. 6, 2015 Alvin B. Conyers, 62, of Auburn, died Friday, Feb. 6, 2015, at his hiome.

Born May 29, 1952, he was a son of the late Ernest and Melrose Black Conyers.

A graveside service was held Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015, in Mellwood Cemetery in Stone Mountain with Pastor Mike Day officiating. A celebration of life service was also held Thursday, Feb. 12, at Celebration Church in Hoschton.

Survivors include his brother and sister-in-law, Don and Anastasia Conyers of Oklahoma City, Okla.; nieces and nephews, Sara E. Conyers of Portland, Ore., Kyle R. Conyers and Seth P. Conyers, both of Jackson, and Danielle Bell and Caitlin Frasier, both of Oklahoma; and great-niece, Nina Bell of Oklahoma.

Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Evi Fernsebner

Died Feb. 10, 2015 Evi Fernsebner, 83, of Braselton, died Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2015.

Arrangements are being handled by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA 30548, www. lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-654-0966.

The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Christine Graham

Died Feb. 12, 2015 Christine Sullivan Graham, 89, of Winder, died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015.

Born Dec. 17, 1925, in Aragon, she was the daughter of the late John and Nola Mae Walker Sullivan. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Albert Graham Jr.; and a daughter, Geneva “Bonnie” Y. Fegan. She studied anesthesiology at Emory University Hospital and served as the anesthesiologist coordinator at Emory for 30 years.

A memorial service was held Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015, in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home with the Rev. Allen Smith officiating. Memorials may be made to your charity of choice.

Survivors include her children, Janice G. Smith of Conyers, Miriam G. King of Bowman, Donna G. Isom of Gainesville, Melanie G. Pulaski of Varnville, S.C., Debbie Savage of Winder, Charles A. Graham Jr., of Conyers and John A. Graham of Rome; 20 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and a host of great-great-grandchildren.

Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Bozie Greene

Died Feb. 12, 2015 The Rev. Melvin Curtis “Bozie” Greene, 74, of Jefferson, died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015.

Born in Commerce, he was a son of the late Henry and Irene Minish Greene.

He was retired from the University of Georgia electrical department after 30 years of service as a lineman. He was a Minister and a member of the River of Life Church in Nicholson. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Forceand loved to fish with his children and grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his son, Myron Greene; and brothers, James Greene, Ralph Greene, Larry Greene and Herman Greene.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Lynda Howington Greene; daughter, Sandy McAllister and her husband Todd of Jefferson; brothers, Bobby Greene and his wife Pam of Jefferson and Ray Greene and his wife Linda of Danielsville; sisters, Emma Elrod of Hull, Fay Barnett and her husband Billy of Jefferson; grandchildren, Austin, Tyler, Katelyn, Alexis, Colin and Faith.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015, at the River of Life Church in Nicholson with the Rev. Bobby Ivester and the Rev. Dennis Kesler officiating.

The burial followed in the Howington Cemetery with Scott Greene, Josh Greene, Hank Barnett, Austin McAllister, Tyler McAllister and Lamar Howington honored as pallbearers.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Hospice House, P.O. Box 6588, Athens, GA 30604.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Dorothy Sue Hill

Died Feb. 15, 2015 Dorothy Sue Hill 82, of Commerce, died Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015.

She was a daughter of the late Andrew Perry and Bertha Helen Shubert Echols and the widow of Carl Lacey.

She was a member of the Solid Rock Baptist Church.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Roy Poole of Commerce; brothers, Jimmy Echols of Comer and David Echols of Commerce; sisters, Claudine Herbert of Whitesburg, Joyce Carter of Demorest and Nancy Ledford of Commerce; grandchildren, Jason Ray Hill and Joseph Michael Partin; and greatgrandchildren. Kaylee Partin and Morgan Partin.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home with the Rev. Swayne Carlan and the Rev. Donald Wilson officiating.

Burial was in Jackson Memorial Park.

Ivie Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Billie Ann McDaniel

Died Feb. 14, 2015 Billie Ann McDaniel, 73, of Hoschton, died Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jacky E. McDaniel; and parents, Herman and Mary Heard Peevy.

Survivors include her loving family and friends.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home with the Rev. Lamar Hansard officiating. Interment followed in Broadlawn Memorial Gardens in Buford.

Flanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Buford The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Died Feb. 11, 2015 James Gerald “Jerry” Newsom, 70, of Hoschton, died Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015.

Born in Atlanta, he was in the first graduating class of St. Pius High School. He received a Newsom Bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University. A Vietnam veteran, he served in the United State Marine Corps. For most of his life, he worked with the State of Georgia as risk manager and he was administrator for the state’s self-insurance program for worker’s compensation, liability and property insurance. He loved helping friends and neighbors.

Survivors include his wife of 33 years , Judith Foster Newsom; seven brothers; four sisters; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, located at 6439 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch. A reception will follow at the church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Burial will be at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS, 66675 or Prince of Peace.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Sammy Peppers

Died Feb. 12, 2015 Sammy Peppers, 65, of Winder, died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015.

Mr. Peppers was a United States Army veteran.

He loved dirt track racing and truck drivPeppers ing. He was preceded in death by his twin sister, Hope Peppers.

Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Debra Peppers; sons, Barry Peppers of Bethlehem, Richard Peppers of Villa Rica, Shane Peppers and wife Nicole of Bethlehem and Brandon Peppers and wife Ashley of Bethlehem; daughters, Angela Woody of Villa Rica and Stephanie Peppers of Bethlehem; brother, Wayne Peppers of Talking Rock; sis-

ters, Shirley Smith of Walnut Grove, Sadie Mae Tumlin and husband Fred of Winder and Ellen Golden and husband Sterling of Acworth; 14 grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; and a dear friend, Jessica Vaughan.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015, in the Lawson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Gary Crawford officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Synergy Church, 175 Second St., Winder, GA, 30680.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Berkley Ruiz

Died Feb. 14, 2015 Berkley Ruiz, 87, died Saturday, Feb 14, 2015, from natural causes.

Born Feb. 27, 1927, Berk was raised in North Carolina but had lived in Winder since 1957. He served in the United States Navy during World War II and Korea and he remained in the Naval Reserve until 1976, retiring as Lieutenant Commander.

Ruiz He obtained degrees from Mars Hill Junior College, Clemson University, the University of Georgia, and a specialist degree from Georgia Southern. He taught Industrial Arts for two years in North Carolina then in Georgia from 1957 to 1988, most of those years at Winder-Barrow High School (1957-1968, 1976-1988). He was instrumental in the formation of the Industrial Arts Club Association in 1962.

Berk was active in the community of Winder. He assisted with Boy Scouts, was a member of the Winder Lions Club and the Dixie Locksmith Association. He took tickets at high school football and basketball games, and for many years was the only locksmith in town. He was also a licensed ham radio operator for over 40 years.

During retirement he started a full-time locksmith business and picked up the art of dowsing, appearing on the show “Liars and Legends.”

He was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Winder Ward) and served in various capacities including a two-year mission to Samoa with his wife Shirley and then as bishop from 1999 to 2004. His religion was an important part of his life and he gave countless hours of service on behalf of others.

Berk met Shirley in 1954 while selling pots and pans door-to-door in North Carolina. They eventually settled in Winder where they both

CHURCH NEWs The Lenten Season is here and we invite you to worship with us at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in preparation for Easter. During this time we will be celebrating the “Divine Liturgy” according to the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. Holy Trinity is located at 7049 Spout Springs Road and all are welcome.

For more information, visit www. holytrinityflowerybranch.org or Holy Trinity Anglican Church on Facebook.

The free clothing shop is still in the need for donations for infants,

taught high school. All seven of their children attended that same high school. Berk was a family man who spent summers hauling the kids to different parts of the country and his retirement years enjoying the grandkids. His jokes and hearty laughter and ever-present willingness to help others will be sorely missed by the family and all who associated with him.

Berk was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years.

Survivors include their children, Juli, Teresa, Tony, Robby (Genie), Timmy (Ruth Yaneth), John (Darla) and Molly; 12 grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and brother , Robert Ruiz of North Carolina.

Viewing will be held at the Carter Funeral Home from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 19 and 20, 2015.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, in the LDS Chapel located at 36 Sims Road in Winder. A short viewing will be held prior to the funeral from 11-11:45 a.m. Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Winder.

Flowers are accepted or donations may be made to the Boy Scouts of America.

Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Franklin L. Samples

Died Feb. 15, 2015 Franklin L. Samples, 86, of Buford, died Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015.

Born Dec. 12, 1928, in Cumming, he was a retired footing and foundation contractor after 45 years of service. He attended Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Flowery Branch.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benoy and Mollie Samples; brothers, Harvin Samples and Charlie Samples; sisters, Margaret Smith and Helen Sanders.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Carol J. Samples; children, Denise and Gene Scroggs of Flowery Branch and Rusty Samples of Buford; grandchildren, Trey Scroggs, Benoy Scroggs, Tyler Samples and Brooke Samples; brother and sisterin-law, Jimmy and Brenda Samples of Buford; sisters and brother-in-law, Marie and Clinton Green and Carantha Samples Sanders, all ofAuburn; special nephew, Randy Sanders of Buford; special niece, Connie Lynn of Flowery Branch; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home with the Rev. Joel Shadburn and the Rev. Charles Shadburn officiating. Interment followed in Broadlawn Memorial Gardens in Buford.

Flanigan Funeral Home &

children, men and women. The shop is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. until 1p.m. for those in need. sss New Community Church says Together We Make A Difference.

Join in awesome worship and scripture teaching at New Community Church located at 126 Merchants Park Drive in Hoschton.

Sunday services are at 10:30 a.m.

Service time on Sundays is 10:30 a.m.

IMPACT Student Ministry is held in the Student Center at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Elementary Fun Night will be from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20,

Crematory, Buford The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Pat Warren

Died Feb. 10, 2015 Pat Warren, 72, of Winder, died Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2015.

She was a graduate of the 1960 class of Winder-Barrow High School. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Lorene Hudson Doss.

Survivors include her husband of 52 years, Robert Warren; daughter and son-inlaw, Leigh and Vince Caine of Winder; granddaughter, Ema Clair Warren Caine of Winder; and a sister, Jeri Wardlaw of Lithia Springs.

Funeral services were held Friday, Feb. 13, 2015, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home in Winder with the Rev. Brock Burnett and Jason McDaniel officiating.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

Amy Wigley

Died Feb. 11, 2015 Amy Wigley, 37, of Lawrenceville, died Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015.

Born May 9, 1977 in Cuba, New Mexico, she received her education in Ft. Payne, Ala. She was a mortgage underwriter with Southeast Mortgage Company in Duluth for the past six years.

She was an avid Falcons fan and loved animals. She was the recipient of a liver transplant at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. Special thanks go to the staff of Peachtree Christian Hospice and Piedmont Hospital transplant team.

She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Gail Wigley.

Survivors include her husband of nine years, Craig Wigley; parents, Randy and Sharon Frink of Kill Devil Hills, N.C.; brother, Josh Frink of Kill Devil Hills, N.C.; uncle, Don Hosmer of Greensboro; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Danny and Karen Wigley of Buford; brother-in-law and sister-inlaw, David and Michelle Wigley of Buford; grandparents, Kathryn and Robert Coffee of Lawrenceville; sisters-inlaw and brothers-in-law, Keshia and Pancho Macias of Buford and Kami and Justin Terry of Jefferson; brotherin-law and sister-in-law, Kyle and Lesley Wigley of Buford; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and her special pets, Baby Ruth and Kit Kat. Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral home with the Rev. Kenneth Parker officiating. Interment will follow at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens in Buford.

Flanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Buford The Paper, Feb. 19, 2015

with food, games and a movie in the Student Center.

Contact the New Community Church office at 706-658-0300. sss First Baptist Church of Jefferson will host its Men’s Ministry at 6:15 a.m. on Monday, March 2, in the fellowship hall to hear guest speaker Brad Charles, who works with the CUBIT Foundation. The foundation helps meet both the physical and spiritual needs of people in Central and South America. Each Sunday services begin at 10:50 a.m. for the church’s See CHURCH NEWS, 5A

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BUSINESS

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

5A

First Madison Bank & Joe Hicks named district Trust adds new lenders manager in Jefferson Wayne Garrison, Jeff Bankston join Athens Jackson EMC

Joe Hicks has been named Jackson Electric Membership Corporation’s (EMC) district manager in Jefferson.

“Joe rose to the top of an extremely well-qualified field of candidates,” said Jim Crawford, vice president, customer / district services for Jackson EMC. “His demonstrated results in Jefferson, along with his leadership abilities, make him the right person to lead the district going forward.”

Hicks joined Jackson EMC in 2002 as a residential sales representative in Jefferson before being promoted to commercial/industrial representative in Lawrenceville in 2005. After six years in Lawrenceville, Hicks transferred back to Jefferson, where he relocated with his family in 2011. He was promoted to senior commercial/industrial representative in 2012.

During his time in Jefferson, Hicks has managed commercial and industrial accounts in a multi-county region, and he is an active member of the area’s business and community land-

Hicks scape. Hicks is a past chairman of the Barrow County Chamber of Commerce, and served on the Barrow County Chamber’s executive board as well as the Barrow Economic Development Council.

He currently serves many civic and community organizations, including the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce board of directors, The Jackson County Alliance, The Barrow County

DDA

Continued from 2A development. Eubanks gave updates from an absent Cindy Green regarding the business challenge that the committee is working on, that will award one business as a winner who has the best business plan. Exact details are not set in stone yet, but they are moving forward. On March 20 the committee will go to Woodstock on a field trip

CHURCH NEWS

to learn more about their success with mixed use residential housing projects. This outing will replace the monthly economic development meeting.

A report of upcoming projects and events was provided. Milling Around Downtown is set for March 14. Pinnell mentioned her excitement of the event which will include a Rockin’ the Green 5K race at 9 a.m., roller mill tours from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and a Rock the Chalk sidewalk chalk art contest

at @cpmillcreek. sss

Continued from 4A

Contemporary Worship in the Annex and at 11 a.m. for the Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary.

The church food bank is open from 1-3 p.m.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week except for major holidays.

The church is located at 246 Washington St., in Jefferson. Visit www. fbcjefferson.org. sss Hoschton United Methodist Church will mark the first Sunday of Lent on Feb. 11 with worship service at 11 a.m. An adult class will convene in the fellowship hall and children’s class will be in the classroom of the church.

Prime Timers bingo and lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, in the fellowship hall.

“Come Home to Hoschton United Methodist Church where YOU have People.”

The church is located at 12 Mulberry St., in Hoschton. Call the church office at 706-654-1422. sss

Arbor Pointe Church, located at 115 Towne Center Parkway in Hoschton, invites you to the “Close Encounters” worship series beginning on Feb. 22 and continuing through Easter. The Bible tells stories about people whose lives changed after they encountered Jesus.

The same can be true for us! The weekly worship service is at 10:30 a.m.

Adult Sunday School and a youth class are offered before the service; children’s Sunday School and nursery are offered during the worship time.

“Basic” group is now being offered on Thursdays. Join Pastor Brad Greene in this multiweek study group that uses short video clips to explore the nature of the church according to how the Bible describes it. This series speaks equally to those who have questions about the church and those who may have lost interest in the church.

The group will meet on Thursdays from 6:30-8 p.m. Sign up through the church’s website, www.

main office location of locally-owned bank

Jefferson native Wayne Garrison has been named vice president of commercial lending at the main office of First Madison Bank & Trust, located at 780 Highway 129 North in Athens.

The announcement was made by Jay Staines, president and CEO of the bank, who also welcomes Jeff Bankston as vice president of commercial lending.

Garrison and his wife, Sheree, live in Jefferson.

He has 30 years of banking Garrison experience ranging from branch management to market executive and commercial lending. He holds a BBA in marketing from the University of West Georgia and is a graduate of the University of Georgia Banking School and the Graduate School of Baking at Louisiana State University. Garrison is a member of the Jefferson Lions Club and Galilee Christian Church in Jefferson.

Bankston, who has more than 29 years of banking experience, lives in Athens and has worked in credit administration, branch operations, market executive and commercial loans After earning an economics degree at the University of Geor-

that will run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Pinnell said she already has the tour guides secured. As for the sidewalk chalk contest, there will be different categories this year — age as well as single entries and group entries. There will also be a section for both adults and children to draw with chalk just for fun.

Also on March 14 will be the “Seat Yourself” fundraiser that Winham iis chairing. She said she believes sales will be great due to the beauty of the chairs and benches that are

arborpointe.org. Visit basicseries.com.

Visit arborpointe. org. Worship message podcasts are also available for streaming and for download on iTunes. sss A “Get Well” benefit for Travis Harkins will be held on Saturday, Feb.28.

Beginning at 11 a.m. at Center Union Baptist Church in Braselton, barbecue plates and chicken stew will be sold. The church and the community will be helping to raise funds for the family. Buy tickets in advance and pick up the day of the benefit or stop by to purchase your plates and stew on Feb. 28. Plates will include meat, beans, chips and a cookie for $8 with chicken stew for $6 a quarter or five quarts for $20. For tickets, call Calvin at 678410-3074 or Tabitha at 678-654-4868. The church is located at 302 Ednaville Road in Braselton. sss Northeast Church is offering free citizenship classes beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday,

Bankston gia, he graduated from the University of Georgia Banking School. He is involved in a number of Athens area organizations including the Rotary Club of Athens, the Athens YMCA, the Athens Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club of Athens, United Way and the Athens First United Methodist Church.

First Madison Bank & Trust, with assets of $170MM, is a locally-owned bank that has proudly served Madison, AthensClarke and surrounding counties for 10 years. Contact Garrison or Bankston at the main office at 706-389-7979. Learn more about First Madison Bank & Trust at www. first madisonbank.com

available and said that there is at least one more that is scheduled to be donated before the event. It will run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Pinnell secured three food trucks that are returning after a successful small business Saturday event back in November.

Before the DDA meeting was adjourned, discussion of lthe recent Chocolate Walk took place. Nothing but great things were said.

“The Chocolate Walk was a huge success,” said Winham. “There was

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a wide variety of people, not just the usuals. I even booked three appointments.”

Phillips nodded her head in agreement and said that her business had several people inquiring about insurance. Bettis said that she even secured a booth at her antique shop.

“This is what the Chocolate Walk was all about,” said Pinnell. “Not only was this a free event with chocolate treats, it was promotion of our downtown businesses.”

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Governmental Affairs Committee, the Banks County Economic Development Committee and the Jackson County Water and Sewer Authority.

Hicks is also a board member for Lindsay’s Legacy Mentoring, a children’s mentoring nonprofit organization. He is an active member of several professional organizations including the Georgia Economic Developers Association and the Jackson, Barrow, Banks and Athens Chambers of Commerce.

He earned a Bachelor’s Degree and certificate in management from the University of Georgia, and holds an MBA from Brenau University. Hicks is also a graduate of the Georgia Academy of Economic Development, Leadership Barrow, Leadership Jackson, Leadership Gwinnett and LEAD Athens.

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Thursday, February 19, 2015

forum

6A

Day more than just mattresses

I

n an earlier time, we used to celebrate the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln in February. Now, we have combined them into one day to honor all presidents of the United States.

Quite frankly, I think the celebration mostly centers on mattress sales. It seems every store that sells mattresses has a big sale on Presidents Day. I have a theory about that.

George Washington, our first president and father of our country, never appeared overly happy in any of the paintings of him.

I think he probably didn’t have a very good mattress.

Considering the technology of the day, it was probably stuffed with feathers and wasn’t that great. Now, you can part with a few hundred pictures of dear old George and get yourself a dandy mattress.

But we don’t know much about other presidents.

Take Martin Van Buren, for example. Old Marty was the first U.S. president who was actually born in the USA. Interestingly, he spoke English as a second language. He came from a Dutch family and Dutch was spoken in his boyhood home. For that we say, “God Zegen Amerika.”

Van Buren was from Kinderhook, N.Y., and his political enemies called him “the sly fox of Kinderhook.” He served one fouryear term as president as a Democrat. He ran unsuccessfully a few years later as the candidate of the Free Soil Party. I don’t know many guys who made it on the Free Soil ticket.

He was a short guy, just 5-foot-6, but was known as a snappy dresser.

The man who defeated him, William Henry Harrison, was the hero of the Battle of Tippecanoe. He and his running mate, John Tyler, ran using the slogan, “Tippecanoe and Tyler, Too.” Harrison was, at the time, the oldest man elected as

Harris Blackwood president. He apparently felt he needed to show he was strong and healthy. He rode on horseback to his inauguration without a topcoat or hat. He then delivered a two-hour inaugural address of 8,445 words.

Harrison needed someone to tell him standing out in the cold without a coat and hat while making a twohour speech is not a good idea. He died a month later from a bout with pneumonia. He was the first president to die in office.

Vice President Tyler then became president.

William Howard Taft served as president from 1909 to 1913. When he left office, he obviously was not through with public life.

President Warren Harding nominated him to be chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, where he served from 1921 to 1930. He is the only person to hold both offices.

Taft was a close friend and political ally of Theodore Roosevelt. It was Roosevelt and his Bull Moose Party who divided the Republican vote and cleared the way for the election of Woodrow Wilson. The election resulted in a bitter feud between Taft and Roosevelt that was not resolved until shortly before Roosevelt’s death in 1919.

Some interesting stories surround the 44 men who have been president. Maybe this year you can take a little time from your mattress search and learn more about them.

As Van Buren might say, “Zie je later.”

Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appear weekly.

Letters policy Send letters to editor@clickthepaper.com; fax, 706658-0177; or P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548.

Please include name, hometown and phone number.

Letters should be limited to 300 words on one topic and may be edited.

The First Amendment Congress shall make no law respecting establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

P.O. Box 430 Hoschton, GA 30548 9924 Davis St., Suite 8, Braselton, GA 30517 www.clickthepaper.com

Publisher Charlotte Atkins General Manager Norman Baggs Editor LeAnne Akin

In the South, it’s all about who you know Back in the autumn, just as the leaves began to hint of the enchanting oranges, yellows and reds to come, we took a Monday off and headed to the state fair.

I was astounded to learn that it was my husband’s first fair — other than a couple of rinky-dink fairs in shopping center parking lots — for to me, nothing announces fall’s arrival more than football season, state fairs and carnivals with hayrides and pumpkin decorating contests.

We were looking forward to seeing the livestock and horses so we were disappointed to learn that the animals take Mondays off. Except for four milk cows, the enormous barns were practically empty. Tink was a bit crestfallen. He had been on the fair’s website the night before, planning all the agricultural places to see.

Thanks to our friends John and Cinda, we had a golf cart. While Tink was out of the cart buying a hot dog, I called my childhood friend Jerry Truelove, a well-respected dairy farmer who sits on several dairy-related boards.

When Jerry answered, I explained the disappoint-

Ronda Rich ment at not seeing all the cows and horses.

“But there are four milk cows here. Could you arrange for Tink to learn how to milk a cow?”

“I can make that happen.

Let me make a call.”

A few minutes later, he called back.

“Go over to the red barn and ask for Nicole. She works with the Georgia Commodity Commission for milk. She’s going to teach him to milk a cow.”

Now, you probably think that this story is about my citified husband from California learning to milk a cow. It is not — though I will say he loved the surprise like a child would and learned quickly how to squeeze the milk from the cow’s udders and enjoyed every second of it.

This is about how a Southerner makes an introduc-

tion, especially when there’s a connection of some kind.

Rather than just offer my hand and introduce myself by name, I said, as would any typical Southerner, “I’m Ronda Rich. Jerry Truelove’s friend. We grew up together. In fact, I have known him since the day I was born. We were in the hospital nursery together.

He was born the day before me. His daddy kept my daddy company in the waiting room while I was being born. We graduated together. And, we’re still neighbors after all these years. Friday night I made chili and cornbread muffins so I called him to come over and join us for supper.”

All this before poor Nicole had a chance to say a word.

You know, it’s true, though: connections and familiarity are important to the people of the South.

When you meet someone, your name isn’t nearly as interesting as who you know.

Or, more importantly, who you’re kin to.

“Do you remember the gas station where you used to fill your car and get it washed? Way back when you were in college?” asked a man who approached me

after a speaking engagement. “Well, that was my brother’s station. I’m the youngest. There were four of us. Three boys and a girl.”

Of course I remembered so we talked for five minutes before I had to ask, “So, what is your name?”

Several years ago, I was at Matthews Printing, talking to folks I have known forever.

“Do you know Margie?”

I asked. “Oh, of course you do. Her brother, Jim, used to work at the newspaper.

Then he went to the radio station. He’s married to Slim Delong’s sister, Evie. The ones who have the big cancer fundraiser at their farm every year.”

Suddenly, I stopped as it dawned on me. “Oh, no. I have become my mother. I have to give the genealogy of every person I mention.”

Actually, though, I had just bloomed into the quintessential Southerner because we don’t really know you unless we know who you are.

Ronda Rich is the best-selling author of several books.

Sign up for her newsletter at www.rondarich.com. Her column appears weekly.

House bills could possibly help both young and old Georgians As the 2015 legislaThis agency should be tive session progresses, able to better focus serbills are making it out vices to help those with of committees and onto Alzheimer’s disease and the floor of the Georgia other types of dementia House of Representaand ensure that Geortives for action. gia’s seniors receive the Last week, we voted care and attention they Rep. Terry England deserve. on two bills that I cosponsored, as well as on The second bill I coa resolution I sponsored to honor an sponsored in the House last week outstanding group of Barrow County could be a big help to some younger students. folks. HB 91 retroactively allows forThe coaches and players of Bethmer high school students who failed lehem Christian Academy’s Knight’s the Georgia High School Graduation Baseball Team traveled to the Gold Test a chance to receive a diploma.

Dome on Tuesday, Feb. 10, to witness The graduation test was phased out the vote on House Resolution 279, a few years ago, and HB 91 allows which honors the team for winning students who met all other graduation back-to-back state championships in requirements to petition their local 2013 and 2014 in Class A of the Georschool boards to obtain diplomas gia Independent Schools Association. from their high schools.

Head Coach Colby May, accompanied Many good students were unable by several all-star players, were to get their diplomas despite having invited to the House floor to accept strong grade-point averages. I cothe resolution. The rest of the team sponsored the legislation because watched from the gallery. I was very I know a young lady from Barrow proud of them and glad they could be County in that very situation. With a there. high school diploma, she and other The following day, the House voted affected former students would have overwhelmingly in favor of House Bill access to postsecondary educations, 86, which I co-sponsored. This bill, if making them better prepared for sucapproved by the Senate and signed cess in Georgia’s workforce.

by Gov. Nathan Deal, will move state A resolution introduced in the services for older residents and adults Senate last week could salvage the with disabilities out of the Departeducations of thousands of students ment of Human Services and into a across the state. Requested by Gov. newly established Georgia Adult and Deal, it would create “Opportunity Aging Services Agency.

School Districts” where state educa-

tion officials temporarily would take over chronically failing schools and attempt to turn them around. Though this initiative could help dozens of schools in Atlanta and elsewhere, there are no Barrow County schools on the list of failing schools.

One other House Bill that was passed last week and could have some local impact is HB 57. This “Solar Power Free Market Financing Act” would make it easier and more affordable for Georgians to put solar panels on their rooftops by allowing homeowners and business owners to fund the installations through third-party financing plans. The bill received unanimous support in the House. If the Senate passes it and the Governor signs it, there could be more energy options in Georgia.

Based on an adjournment calendar the House passed last week, the 2015 session should end on April 2. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me at englandhomeport@windstream.net or at 404-4632245.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent Barrow County.

May God bless you and your family and our great State.

State Rep. Terry England represents District 116, which includes most of Barrow County. He chairs the House Appropriations Committee. His address is 245 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334.

local

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

For The Paper

(L-R) Jackson EMC Board of Directors John Mitchell, Beef Show Judge Lee Crump and Supreme Champion Heifer winner Whitley Dale, Jefferson FFA

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For The Paper

(L-R) Jackson EMC Board of Directors Chuck Steele, 1st place Senior Showmanship winner Cindy Cooper, Jackson County FFA and Beef Show judge Lee Crum

JEMC’s Quality Beef Show fields 55 competitors Representing Future Farmers of America chapters (FFA) and 4-H clubs from Banks, Barrow, Franklin, Jackson and Madison counties, 55 young people gathered to compete for awards, ribbons and cash prizes in the 2015 Jackson Electric Membership Corporation’s 46th annual Quality Beef Show. Together, they entered 91 animals in the competition held at the Jackson County Comprehensive High School Livestock Center in Jefferson.

follows: Other – Brandon Boling, Banks County FFA, Breed Champion; and Justin Morgan, Commerce FFA, Breed Reserve Champion.

Simmental – Madyson McDaniel, Jackson County FFA, Breed Champion; and Morgan McDaniel, Jackson County 4-H, Breed Reserve Champion. % Simmental – Whitley Dale, Jefferson FFA, Breed Champion; and Cindy Cooper, Jackson County FFA, Breed Reserve Champion.

Angus – Bella Chandler, Jackson County 4-H, won the Breed Champion; and Savannah Page, Jackson County 4-H, Reserve Breed Champion.

Charolais – Parker Sheridan, Banks County FFA, Breed Champion; and Madison Abbs, Jefferson FFA, Breed Reserve Champion.

Chi-Influence – Payton Jackson, Banks County FFA, Breed Champion; and Sydney Arnold, Madison County FFA, Breed Reserve Champion.

Hereford – Emma Huff, Madison County FFA, Breed Champion and Breed Reserve Champion.

Limousin – Will Frost, Winder-Barrow 4-H, Breed Champion; and Abby Frost, Winder- Barrow 4-H, Breed

Reserve Champion.

Young people competing in the Quality Beef Show use the experience and judge’s feedback to help prepare for the upcoming statewide competition in Perry. “There is no entry fee for this compe-

tition. The students have the opportunity to win prizes and get pointers from the judge to help them improve their animals and skills, so everyone comes out a winner,” said Chip Jakins, Jackson EMC President/CEO.

For The Paper

(L-R) Jackson EMC Board of Directors Otis Jones, Beef Show judge Lee Crump and 1st place Novice Showmanship winner Morgan McDaniel, Jackson County 4-H

For The Paper

(L-R) Beef Show judge Lee Crump, Jackson EMC Board of Directors Otis Jones and 1st place Intermediate Showmanship winner Heidi Seagraves, Jackson County 4-H

For The Paper

(L-R) Beef Show judge Lee Crump, Jackson EMC Board of Directors Bill Carpenter and 1st place Junior Showmanship winner Austin Ertzberger, Franklin County FFA A heifer shown by Whitley Dale, Jefferson FFA, won Supreme Champion Heifer honors, and another shown

by Payton Jackson, Banks County FFA, won Reserve Supreme Champion Heifer.

A steer shown by Cindy Cooper, Jackson County FFA, won Grand Champion Steer honors, and another shown by Taylor Davis, Jefferson FFA, won Reserve Champion Steer.

A commercial heifer shown by Payton Jackson, Banks County FFA, won Breed Champion title and another shown by Savannah Page, Jackson County 4-H, won Reserve Champion in the same category.

In showmanship, Morgan McDaniel, Jackson County 4-H, won the Novice category; Austin Ertzberger, Franklin County FFA, won the Junior; Heidi Seagraves, Jackson County 4-H, won Intermediate; and Cindy Cooper, Jackson County FFA, won Senior.

In the heifer competition, breed champions and the youth showing them are as

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The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

It might not be heartburn.

Women often experience unique heart attack symptoms that can easily be overlooked if you don’t know the facts. Educate yourself at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/womensheart.

While GMC has always provided compassionate heart care, we’ve soared to the next level with the most advanced procedures and innovative technology.

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CMYK Thursday, February 19, 2015

Sports

B

UNBROKEN CHAIN

Charles Phelps The Paper

Left: Jefferson’s Ben Kelly wrestles in the 120-pound Class AAA state wrestling final last Saturday in Macon. Right: Caleb Little (right) prepares for the start of his 182-pound Class AAA state wrestling final last Saturday in Macon. Jefferson won its 15th straight wrestling state championship.

Dragons’ wrestling program captures unprecedented 15th straight wrestling state championship; Kelly, Thurmond, 4 others win individual titles

BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

MACON – If anyone believes winning becomes redundant, they haven’t met the Jefferson Dragons’ wrestling program.

The Dragons came into last Saturday’s Class AAA state championship meet with one goal in mind, don’t break the chain.

Instead, they added another link to the already-impressive chain as for the 15th straight year the Dragons (240.5 points) stood tall on the mat as the team state champion, their first in Class AAA. Six Dragons wrestled in the finals. All six walked away as individual state champions.

Dawson Bates (106) won by decision, 5-1.

Mitchell McGhee (113) claimed an 8-0 decision victory. Senior Ben Kelly (120) and Tanner Thurmond (132), head coach Doug Thurmond’s son, won via first-round pinfall.

Senior Chase Piperato (145) and Caleb Little (182) capped-off the Dragons’ triumphant day with decision victories, 6-3, 9-3.

Coach Thurmond summed up the championship victory in one word, “W-O-W.” “The team stepped up. We had a lot of guys that came back through and placed after losing early,” Thurmond said. “It was a team effort and that’s what was nice. I was real proud of that.”

Will Ballard (152) finished in third place via pinfall. Nick Holman (285) picked up a fifth place finish by a 3-2 decision. Jeremy McColskey (138), Zach Boobas (160) and Deshon Lester (195) all finished sixth in their respective weight classes.

Thurmond said the team knew the expectation was there to make 15 straight a reality

and after the Class AAA East Sectionals they had to clean up parts of their game to make it happen.

They did that and kept “the chain going.”

“Some of them cleaned it up real well.

Some of them did real good and I was real proud of them,” he said. “It was the effort of practicing.”

Bates started off the successful afternoon with a first-place win over Oconee County’s Rudy Rodriguez. Then, McGhee took to the mat and walked off with a first-place win over Lumpkin County’s Logan Brown.

Then, it was Kelly’s turn and he wanted to end his Jefferson career as a winner. He accomplished that goal and earned his second state title as he made quick work of Rockmart’s Devin Darden.

“I was kind of nervous before my match (because) I knew my (opponent) was going to be good,” Kelly explained. “I just went out there and stuck to what I know and pinned him in the first period. (It) felt pretty good.”

He called the win a “perfect” to end his high-school career.

“It’s a perfect ending. It’s the last wrestling match I’m ever going to wrestle,” he said.

“It’s just the best way I could go out.

“Fifteen, that’s a great number. It feels really good to be part of a team that is that dominant.”

In the 132-pound final, Tanner (Thurmond) claimed the state title via first-round pinfall as well, but what made the win even more special, the embrace with his father who also happens to be the coach.

“That was the best part in my opinion was making my dad happy and everything,” Tan-

Region 7-AAAAAA Girls’ Player of the Year: Mill Creek’s Meredith Schulte

ner said about embracing his dad after the victory. “He’s been the big supporter of my life and has always been there.

“It’s always feels good to give back and return and just give to him.”

Coach Thurmond tried to sum it up into

Charles Phelps The Paper

Lady Dragons finish 2nd in Region 8-AAA basketball tournament

BY COLIN HUBBARD

Charles Phelps The Paper

See WRESTLING, 2B

Jefferson head coach Doug Thurmond and son, Tanner Thurmond, hug after Tanner’s championship win in the 132-pound Class AAA final last Saturday.

sports@clickthepaper.com

Mill Creek senior Meredith Schulte was voted Region 7-AAAAAA girls’ Player of the Year.

words as both a coach and father.

“That was nice. That was real, real nice,” he said. “It’s tough to coach your kids because there’s a little bit more there.

FRANKLIN SPRINGS –The stage was set at Emmanuel College last Saturday night for the Region 8-AAA championship game between the Jefferson Lady Dragons and Morgan County Lady Bulldogs.

Jefferson was a perfect 14-0 in the 2015 calendar year heading into the matchup, including a 47-45 win over the Lady Bulldogs five games before.

But, Morgan County extracted its revenge in what was a game dominated in the paint by the Lady Bulldogs, and turnovers and missed opportunities doomed the Lady Dragons as they fell 5233 and finished second in the region.

They hosted Banks County Wednesday night in the first round of the Class AAA state playoffs.

“Give Morgan County a lot of credit tonight,” head Coach Jason Gibson stated.

“The difference in the game was offensive rebounds.

When you give a team like that three or four opportunities to score, it’s going to come back to haunt you.”

The Lady Dragons started slow, committing four firstquarter turnovers that led to points for the Lady Bulldogs.

Jefferson shot 2-for-8 from the field in the quarter and found themselves down 16-6 headed into the second quarter.

Midway through the second, sophomore Abbie Franklin connected on a 3-pointer on a catch-andshoot from teammate Jaclyn Coleman to cut the lead to seven, 22-15.

It was Franklin’s lone field goal of the night.

Down the stretch, the Lady Bulldogs connected on six free throws to bump the lead back to 10 points at halftime, 28-18.

Jefferson played tough in the third quarter, but a rough fourth quarter riddled with missed shots and turnovers

put the game out of reach.

They turned the ball over 13 times in the remaining two quarters and shot 4-of-19 from the field.

As a team, the Lady Dragons shot 8-for-33 from the field.

Thirty-three points is the fewest amount of points the Lady Dragons have scored all season.

Franklin finished with seven points, while Mariah Starks added eight, all coming on free throws.

Gibson was disappointed with the defeat but not the effort of the team.

“When you have a cold shooting night, you cannot afford to be cold at every phase,” he said. “We didn’t do a good job from the field or from the free-throw line tonight and when you do that, it’s really hard to compete with a team like Morgan.

“I thought we hung around tonight. We had a lot of

See BASKETBALL, 2B

LOCAL soccer

local sports

local baseball

Soccer Totz registration open

Upcoming sports schedule

Travel team registration open

Jackson County Parks & Recreation Soccer Totz registration is open. Registration is $60 and is open until April 3. A $15 late fee will be added if registered after March 20. The co-ed program is for kids ages 2-3. A parent must attend and participate in the training sessions. The program meets for six Saturdays beginning April 4 at Lamar Murphy Park. For more information, call 706-367-6350 and visit www.jacksonrec.com.

Soccer: Jefferson and Mill Creek compete Friday night at home beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Baseball: Jefferson plays at home Friday night beginning at 5:55 p.m. Mill Creek plays at home Saturday at 2 p.m.

Lacrosse: Mill Creek boys’ varsity team plays at home next Monday at 6 p.m.

Tennis: Jackson County is at East Jackson next Tuesday.

Golf: Jefferson competes at Scales Creek next Tuesday.

Registration is open for the North Georgia Travel League for 10-and-under and 12-and-under baseball and 14-andunder softball. The cost is $500 per team; fee includes umpires, scorekeeper, 12 games, one practice slot per week during the season beginning March 2. Play begins March 23. Games will be played at Lamar Murphy Park at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact Rick Sanders at 706-367-6350 or rsanders@jacksoncountygov. com.

2B

sports

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

Doug Chellew The Paper

Left: Jefferson’s Jaclyn Coleman attempts a shot during last Saturday’s Region 8-AAA basektball championship game. Right: Abbie Franklin attempts a layup during last Saturday’s Region 8-AAA championship game against the Morgan County Lady Bulldogs. The Lady Dragons finished second in the region.

BASKETBALL Continued from 1B

chances to cut the deficit, but we just couldn’t seem to get anything going.”

East Jackson 42, Jefferson 37 In what has been the “Drue Drinnon Show” for most of the season, it was an unfamiliar name who stole the show for the Eagles in last Saturday’s third-place win over the Dragons.

Junior guard Jamarion Knox, who spent time playing on the junior varsity team earlier in the season, came off the bench and led his team to victory behind 6-of-8 shooting from the field, good enough to give the Eagles their third win over the Dragons.

Knox connected on all four of his 3-pointers en route to a career-high

17-point night.

Knox summed up his night in just three words, “It’s really amazing.”

“Coming off of a bad loss last night, I just wanted an opportunity to give our team a spark tonight and I did that,” Knox stated. “It’s a great feeling to come out here and get a win like this.”

East Jackson head coach David Boyd said, “I thought Jamarion came off the bench tonight and gave our team a tremendous spark.

He played very well tonight. I’m extremely proud of him.”

Early on, it was all Jefferson as senior Chris Nable scored the game’s first seven points on 3-of-3 shooting.

The Eagles answered led by Knox, who sparked a 6-0 run of his own to cut the lead to 7-6.

The Eagles went 3-of-5 from behind the arc and led the Dragons by six headed into the second, 14-8.

WRESTLING Continued from 1B

“All of them are your kids, but when it’s your kid, it makes it a little bit sweeter. That was real nice. I’m very proud of him as a dad, but I’m proud of him as a coach. I’m proud of the other kids (too).”

After Tanner, senior Piperato ended his Jefferson career with his third state title and Little ended the day with his state-championship win in the 182-pound weight class.

The Dragons weren’t the only Jackson County team to reign supreme Saturday as the Commerce Tigers (283 points) defended its Class A state championship in dominating fashion.

Casey Burchett (106), Jacob Brewer (113), Dalton Flint (120), Austin Brock (126), Mitchell Patton (132), Owen Brown (138) and Cole Chancey (170) won individual state titles.

Knox Allen and Dontavious Mosley brought home second-place finishes in their respected weight class.

“It was just an outstanding performance from round one,” Commerce head coach Kendall Love said. The

Midway through the second quarter, the Eagles’ dominance continued as they found themselves on an 18-2 run.

Knox connected on his third 3-pointer of the night with just under two minutes remaining in the half, but the Dragons didn’t fade as they cut the lead to three points headed into the break, 23-20.

In the third quarter, Kendrick Robinson connected on a layup to tie the game, 30-30, but they found themselves down two points to the Eagles, 34-32, going into the fourth quarter.

With the Eagles clinging to a three-point lead with under 40 seconds in regulation, Colton Puckett connected on two free throws to push the lead to five.

On the ensuing possession, Hunter Thompson’s three-point attempt rimmed out, giving the Eagles the ball back with just 30

Tigers won 13 of their 14 first-round matches.

“Really put the tournament away in the first round, so the guys could just concentrate on winning the individual state championships,” Love explained.

“In the finals today, we won eight out of 10, which is just unbelievable in my mind.

“I’m so proud of the guys. They wrestled hard all weekend and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Love added the program’s success stems from hard work over the last five to six years.

“Each one (state championship) is tough,” he said. “I know it looks kind of lopsided score wise, but it is still tough to win a state championship, so it just feels great. “ He added that northeast Georgia is “definitely a hotbed” for wrestling.

“I coached at Jefferson for six years, then came to Commerce, so I know what Jefferson dominance is all about,” Love said. “I’m just glad that we’re starting to get into the same conversation with them. It is something special.”

The Jackson County Panthers finished sixth overall in the Class AAA standings, which included a secondplace showing by Connor Crump (132).

My Super Bowl has finally arrived: Daytona 500

seconds remaining.

After a missed free throw by Devonte Tuggle, the lead stood at 42-37, but Robinson rimmed out a layup which sealed the victory for the Eagles.

Jefferson head Coach Bolling Dubose explained how pleased he was for his team to fight back after being down big early, but summed up their night in just a few words, “We couldn’t get anything to fall in the crucial part of the game.”

Jefferson shot 31 percent from the field compared to East Jackson’s 47 percent.

“We got off to a really good start,” Dubose added. “We talked before the game that Drinnon was going to get his points, but we couldn’t let someone else have a big game, and that’s exactly what happened tonight.

“We did a really good job with their bigs down low and with Drin-

Head coach Jason Powers said finishing top six was a goal and it was met.

“You can always look back hope, ‘Well, I wish we could have done this a little bit differently,’ or, ‘I wish this individual had done a little bit differently there,’” he explained.

“But, you know, I’m pleased. We had some very young guys that had never seen a state tournament before, have never wrestled in a state tournament before. I mean, I had two kids who have wrestled in a state tournament before.

Both of (them) placed,” Powers continued. “Then, the other three have never seen the state tournament before and then to come here and place the first time, without ever seeing it, that was fantastic.

“I’m proud of the kids. They wrestled really well. Connor Crump had an absolutely exceptional season. Then, coming here and capping it off, putting up 16-0 in semifinals. Came up a little bit short in the finals, but it doesn’t take anything away from the season that he had. It was an absolutely phenomenal season. These kids took me to a lot of different things this year. We had a lot of different trophies and a lot of success, and I’m just thankful I was able to be a part of it.”

Mill Creek Basketball

BY CHARLES PHELPS

I refer to NASCAR as my “first love,” because in sports terms it was the first sport I Since the checkered flag ever watched and got indropped on the 2014 NAS- vested in. I don’t know how CAR season last November old I was. at Homestead-Miami SpeedAll I know is I was young. way, I have been waiting and Rusty Wallace was my favorwaiting and waiting. ite driver and Jeff Gordon After three long and pain- and Dale Earnhardt were fully excrucitating months, my enemies because they my wait is over because my were Wallace’s enemies on Super Bowl of the race track. all sports takes Now, I’m 26 place this Sunyears old and day, the DayWallace is retona 500. tired, Gordon’s Of course competiting in I like all the his final fullother major time season Charles Phelps sporting events. and Earnhardt Believe me, I was going crazy tragically died in a wreck in when Tom Brady hoisted the this very race in 2001.

Lombardi Trophy for the Sure, the characters have fourth time, cementing his changed and only Gordon legacy as one of, if not the remains from my childhood, greatest quarterback to ever but my passion for the event play in the NFL. hasn’t. If anything, it has Every spring, I look for- grown exponentially. ward to the Masters. The It is February and I feel 2001 edition, where Ti- like a kid at Christmas time ger Woods won his fourth because I know Santa Claus straight major, was the golf is bringing presents. Well I tournament that got me know the Daytona 500 is Sunhooked on the sport. day and this is my “ChristI’ve made it very clear, mas” sports day. professional sports are more I’m excited to see the drivappealing and eye-catching ers beat and bang, push each for me than any others, but other in the draft, race three something about the Day- wide for three-plus hours as tona 500 stands out over the they go for the richest prize Super Bowl, the Masters, in the sport.

World Series and so many others.

WINNER: Jeff Gordon cphelps@clickthepaper.com

Charles Phelps The Paper

Top: Davion Clark and the Mill Creek boys’ basketball team finished fourth in the Region 7-AAAAAA boys’ basketball tournament. Bottom: Anna Parks and the Mill Creek Lady Hawks finished fourth in the Region 7-AAAAAA girls’ basketball tournament.

non, but we couldn’t do anything with Knox…We’re going to have to play our best game of the season to win in the first round of the playoffs, but to finish sixth in the region headed into the region tournament and qualify for state is great,” Dubose continued. “We could have easily been one-and-done in the region tournament, so we are happy to be back in the playoffs.”

Boyd added that Jefferson played a “very smart game.”

“They spread us out and slowed the game down,” he said. “I thought we played a really gutsy game to get back into it early on after the start they had, but this time of year you will take any game by hook or crook and I’m just glad we just got the win.”

Jefferson played at East Hall in the first round of the Class AAA state playoffs, while East Jackson played at Banks County.

Jackson County boys’ soccer squad opens season with one-goal win over Flowery Branch Lady Panthers struggle finding points

BY KYLE FUNDERBURK

sports@clickthepaper.com

JEFFERSON – What better way to start off the season than a victory on your home field?

That’s exactly what the Jackson County Panther soccer team did last Thursday when they beat the Flowery Branch Falcons 2-1.

“It’s a good win against a 5-A school. That’s the direction we want to go,” said head coach Elie Viviant.

The game began with the Falcons in control for most of the first 10 minutes, but the Panthers allowed them to only take one shot at the goal.

After the Panthers gained control of the ball, Luis Caraballo scored on a penalty kick from 20 yards out to give his team a 1-0 lead at the 12:00 mark. Nearly five minutes later, Oscar Ponce completed a shot from 25 yards away to extend the Panthers’ lead to 2-0.

“The free kick by Caraballo was nice. There are very few kids who (can) make those, so it’s great to have a kid like that,” Viviant said. “Ponce’s first goal ever was good. He had good composure 1-on-1 with the goalie.”

The Falcons finally got on the scoreboard at the 38:27 mark with a shot by Angel Morales, which cut the lead to 2-1.

The rest of the game went back and forth between the two teams and neither was able to find the back of the net, again.

The Panthers came close late in the game with missed shots by Caraballo, David Villamill and Ethan Bell.

The misses didn’t matter much in the end because the Panthers’ defenders kept the Falcons from scoring until the final buzzer.

“In the first half, they put some pressure on us, but in the second half, they may have lost their legs a little bit,” Viviant said. “We controlled most of the tempo of the game, so I was pretty pleased.”

Lady Falcons 9, Lady Panthers 0 Losing eight seniors is always a tough situation to endure, especially when the team following them will be made up of mostly underclassmen.

The Flowery Branch Lady Falcons showed the Jackson County Lady Panther fans just how difficult this season might be with a nine-point thrashing.

“They’ve got a lot to learn,” Jackson County head coach Britt Byers said. “It is a young team. I have two seniors (and) the rest of them are all freshmen and sophomores, and some of them have never played soccer before.

“There is a group of girls who play club ball, who are hard workers. They do their best to help show other players what they should be doing and they try to help me on the field, because I can only yell so much,” Byers continued. “There are some great players on the team. There are others who have potential. We just have to get them to where they need to be.”

The Lady Falcons were in command for most of the game. They scored their first goal at the 4:01 mark with a shot by Madeline McCarthy.

For the next 15 minutes, however, the Lady Panthers showed a lot of life and came close to scoring three times, but weren’t able to get a shot on goal.

The Lady Panthers’ chances got even slimmer as the Lady Falcons took complete control of the game with five shots on goal before Mara Wheat scored the first of her three goals in the game.

Halie Windish gave Flowery Branch a 3-0 lead at halftime as she connected at the 39:00 mark.

The second half was more lopsided. Laura Zwald and Wheat both scored within the first four minutes to extend the Lady Falcons’ lead to 5-0. Two more goals were added with a little over 20 minutes left by Elise Lewis and Wheat.

Morgan Wadsworth (66:49) and Rachel Cohn (76:15) both found the net to help give their squad the blow-out victory.

“A lot of this was conditioning, but we got very lazy towards the end,” Byers said.

“The conditioning part is the fact that in high school you get eight days to practice before the first game. There’s not a whole lot of time to get the conditioning.”

CMYK Thursday, February 19, 2015

features

3B

Indians to the Internet: BULLI offers excitement to spring sessions Registration kickoff is Feb. 24 at Country Inn & Suites in Braselton

By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

Brenau University Learning & Leisure Institute (BULLI) Braselton division is gearing up for the spring semester, and things will kick off on Feb. 24 at the registration event at Country Inn & Suites.

The session will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will include a social hour and an information session regarding the courses offered this semester which will run from March 23 through May 1.

BULLI is open to mature adults who want to be a part of a vibrant learning community and make friends along the way. It is supported through its membership fees — each member pays $130 for the full year or $40 per course. A BULLI membership gives its members exclusive access to a variety of interesting courses as well as other benefits. These benefits include newsletters, a discounted membership at the Brenau Fitness Center, Brenau library privileges, social events at minimum or low cost, as well as local and international field trips.

BULLI courses are non-credit, have neither exams nor prerequisites. It’s a way to educate the mind and energize the body without the stress of making a grade. The instructors are a mixture of university professors, community experts and qualified BULLI members who enjoy sharing their knowledge and skills with others. Courses are held at various locations on the Brenau campus and Braselton town facilities.

The Braselton BULLI division offers a diverse list of courses that will serve as wonderful opportunities to learn something new.

On Mondays, the course Lake Poets: Yesterday and Today will take place from 10:45 a.m. until 12:15 p.m.

William Wordsworth, Samuel Coleridge and Robert Southey were considered as the first of the great romantic English poets. The course will examine their works with emphasis on how their place — the Lake District — influenced their lives and work. Susan Reynolds, a public school literature teacher with 30 years of experience, will lead the course. She is a continuing literature student and has led BULLI Gainesville courses.

On Tuesdays, From the Indians to the Internet: The Historical Journey of Jackson County, Georgia will be led by Charlotte Mealor, a University of Georgia alumna and retiree who has been involved in the preservation and organization of Jackson County’s historical records as well as the restoration of the Jackson County Historic Courthouse. Mealor has arranged for seven speakers to open the world of the county’s rich history. After the final session, class members will enjoy lunch at Shields-Ethridge Heritage Farm followed by a visit to the historic courthouse in Jefferson. This course will run from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Also on Tuesdays will be Folk Art Through the Generations from 1-2:30 p.m. led by a nationally-known expert, collector and auctioneer, BULLI curriculum committee member Judee McMurdo. Different mediums will be explored, as well as paint and canvas to carving and wood; from hands and clay to the collected music of the ages from families past and present. The course will end with a field trip to the Georgia Museum of Art to view the folk art collection. There will be five presenters throughout the course.

Tuesday evenings from 6-7:30 p.m. will feature a course entiled From Moonshine to NASCAR: The History of Auto Racing in Georgia presented by Charles Head, radio broadcaster and announcer. He started CHAMP Racing Show in 1990 and worked as a track announcer at the Atlanta Motor Speedway for NASCAR events. Descendants of the old moonshiners from the birthplace of stock car racing in north Georgia will discuss the souped-up cars and battles with the revenuers. Dirt track legends will share stories from the early racing days. Time will be spent at Road Atlanta and the Atlanta Dragway. The course will also include a field trip to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame in Dawsonville, and all registrants will receive a free ticket to the March 1 Spring Cup race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Thursdays will include a Great Decisions course lead by BULLI member and curriculum committee member Allan Slovin from 6-7:30 p.m. Topics will include discussions regarding sectarianism in the Middle East, India changes course, U.S. policy toward Africa, Syria’s refugee crisis, human trafficking, Russia and the near abroad, privacy in the digital age and Brazil’s metamorphosis.

This semester, Braselton’s BULLI is offering short courses, which will only meet three times. On Wednesdays, April 15, 22 and 29, Bill Lott will led a course entitled Into The Woods at the arboretum that will look closely at different types of trees, wild flowers, mushrooms, ferns and an 8-acre granite outcrop.

On Thursdays, April 2, 9 and 16, House of Clay’s Sue Compton will lead an Ancient Art of Clay course.

Compton will teach her students to use handbuilding, the oldest and most primitive form of working with clay. This technique is still being used today. No prior experience is necessary for this course.

The spring 2015 Braselton BULLI semester is chockful of interesting courses. For more information or to register, call Jennifer Dees at 706-654-3915.

Into The Woods will be offered at Thompson Mill Forest Arboretum with forest manager Bill Lott as the course leader.

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Sunshine Early Learning Center recently held its grand opening with Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly doing the honors.

Sunshine Early Learning Center opens in Hoschton building which was once school then sewing plant

By LEANNE AKIN

alkin@clickthepaper.com

Sunshine Early Learning Center got some grand opening help from Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly, who assisted with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The new educational facility, located at 3955 Highway 53 in Hoschton. “It used to be a school and is a school again,” said the proud owner/ operator Ganga Kumar, who points out the center is privately owned and operated and will cater to the needs of the community.

“Given the original purpose of the building and the proximity to the county schools, the facility is an excellent choice for preschool,” said Kumar.

The center can accommodate a total of 78 children and will serve infants through age 12.

Preschool Director Katie Strickland has 16 years of experience. Teachers include Amy Garrett, who will teach 3-year-olds, and Tara Childers has nearly seven years of experience. The management team has two decades of experience in the field of education, and teachers are certified in the field of Early Childhood Education, and in pediatric First

Aid CPR/AED training and Child Care Professional Fire Safety.

Kumar said the goal of Sunshine Early Learning Center is to help children be happy and the bright and colorful interior of the center certainly fosters smiles.

The classrooms are filled with materials, equipment and activities to educationally stimulate young minds.

The center has an indoor gym, specialized infant rooms as well as smaller class size and bigger rooms.

The center is incorporating technology-based teaching environment such as Smart Board, computers and tablets and there will be specialized teachers for enrichment programs such as Spanish, gymnastics, baby sign language, Kindermusik and kiddie cooking classes.

“The Sunshine Learning Center is proud to offer quality childcare in the Jackson/ Barrow area,” said Kumar.

The center is located in a spacious 10,000-square-foot building, which was originally a school in Hoschton. In the last several decades, the building was used for various business purposes.

Kumar said a complete renovation and restoration the original purpose of the building for the educational

Ganga Kumar is the owner and operator of Sunshine Early Learning Center, located at 3955 Highway 53 in Hoschton. and learning activities of the children in the community.

“Our vision is to be a nationally recognized childcare center. To meet this goal, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care in a friendly environment for your child,” said Kumar.

“We believe that preschool offers the children an opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive, organized and loving atmosphere at their own pace and readiness. We value the opportunity to work closely with each child for several years,” she said.

“We sincerely believe that this practice provides continued stability and allows us to better nurture and support each child as they grow and develop,” said Kumar. “We believe that learning is best accomplished in an environment that is emotionally secure, physically safe and fun.”

There is closed circuit monitoring system in each classroom with camera surveillance at all doorways and parking lot. Other safety features include computerized check-in and check-out system.

“It’s ready to come to life,” said Strickland. “We are ready to hear it as everything is near and waiting.”

Hours of operation will be 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. For information, call 706-684-0775, visit www.sunshinegeorgia.org or email director@sunshinegeorgia.org. You can also go to www.facebook.com/sunshinegeorgia LeAnne Akin The Paper

The colorful classrooms of Sunshine Early Learning Center in Hoschton will integrate technology-based learning and enrichment programs such as Spanish, Kindermusik and even cooking classes for children.

More at ClickThePaper.com

ON THE HORIZON Tea Party Patriots hosting Feb. 24 belated Valentine’s party Brooks L. Benton and Sonny Cheatham, two well-known local musicians, will be featured at the “Love Always: A Delayed Celebration of Valentine’s” party on Thursday, Feb. 26. The party is being sponsored by the Tea Party Patriots of Jackson County.

Cheatham is known as “our own local cowboy” who sings country music, accompanying himself on the guitar. He annually hosts a Country Music Festival on his farm on Holly Springs Road, at which he features several local and regional singers and singing groups. At the celebration of Valentine’s, he will provide country-music, commentary and some sing-a-longs.

Benton is also a well-known local musician. In addition to singing regularly at his church, the Sardis Presbyterian, there are several annual local public, patriotic and religious events at which he is a featured singer. He currently has two

CDs. One features patriotic and gospel songs while the other Tea Party Patriots of Jackson County features well-known Christmas songs. He is in the process of developing a third CD. At this Valentine’s event, there will be door prize, prizes for answers to Valentine quizzes and an opportunity to share your favorite Valentine-related stories.

Guys, it’s not too late to bring your Valentine to this fun event. You do not even have to mention that there is no charge.

Just a good evening of music and fun, in celebration of our Valentines and of Valentine’s love.

This relaxed, entertaining event is sponsored by the Tea Party Patriots of Jackson County. It will begin at 7 p.m. at the Jefferson Club House, located at 302 Longview Drive in Jefferson. The clubhouse is the building that sits on the hill above the city ball fields at the end of Old School House Road and Memorial Drive.

The public is invited to this event.

Library Friends to host ‘Huck’ The Friends of the Braselton-West Jackson Library will be hosting Darrell

“What The Huck” Huckaby and his humor at the March 11 Lunch and Learn program.

A proud graduate of the University of Georgia, Huck is the author of 10 books and travels extensively across the South, speaking to church and civic organizations as well as corporate functions.

Born and raised in the North Georgia mill village of Porterdale, he now lives in Conyers with his wife Lisa, and they have three children, Jamie, Jackson and Jenna.

He teaches AP US History and Current Issues at Heritage High School and his syndicated newspaper columns appear in a number of papers across the state.

The “ What The Huck?” commentary can be heard on the Moby in the Morning radio show every Wednesday morning at 7:50.

The program will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, at the Braselton Municipal Court Building. Bring $6 for soup, salad, rolls and dessert to the Community Room in the rear of the Municipal building. For reservations, call Debbie at 678-963-5423. Reservations are appreciated, but not necessary.

4B

SCHOOLS

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

LeAnne Akin The Paper

For The Paper

Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly and City Clerk/Administrator Jacqueline Crouse conducted a city council meeting with selected fifth-graders at West Jackson Intermediate School to boost interest and participation in the “If I Were Mayor, I Would...” essay contest.

John Fouts filled the seat of Councilman David Poteet while Kedrick Zimmer served as Councilman Scott Butler. Charlie Brookshire served as attorney Thomas Mitchell with Jett Gonzales sitting in for Councilman Jim Higginbottom and Naomi Sims filling the seat of Councilman Jim Cleveland. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

The WJMS FFA Horse Judging Team stopped by Jason English Performance Horses in Madison for a great judging practice on the way to the State Horse Judging CDE. They were able to work through conformation and western pleasure classes.

Hoschton mayor gives students insight to her duties, those of council

By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

On Thursday, Feb. 5, Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly paid a visit to West Jackson Middle School to talk to the students about her duties as Mayor.

City Clerk/Administrator Jacqueline Crouse joined Kenerly since the two work alongside each other every day. Kenerly heard about the essay contest “If I were a Mayor, I would…” that several middle schools participate in across the state, and she jumped on board.

“When I first heard about this contest, I believed that it was something that we as a city needed to do,” said Kenerly.

Sixth graders across Georgia are invited to become city leaders in the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) essay contest regarding what they would do if they were mayor. The deadline for the essays is March 6.

This contest is a way for students to begin learning about city government, the role cities play in communities and their responsibilities as leaders. Hoschton Councilman David Poteet said that this

is a great thing for Hoschton and its leaders to participate in. He mentioned this during the February council meeting, and the other council members agreed.

This experience was a true life lesson in civics, and let the students see what their local government does on a regular basis. The mock city council meeting was a great way to visually show the students how the monthly meetings are held.

Along with Kenerly acting out her duties as mayor, Crouse played herself while a handful of chosen students re-enacted the part of the four council members and city attorney. Students sat

HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE

JCCHS ‘Back in the Box Players’ to present Spamalot The JCCHS Lofty Inside Outside Hey! We’re Back in the Box Players invite you to come see the spring production Monty Python’s Spamalot!

Rude Frenchmen, cancan dancers, the Lady of the Lake and her Laker Girls, Killer rabbits, catapulting cows and the somewhat odd Knights who say “Ni” are just part of the adventures and dangers awaiting King Arthur and his knights of the very, very, very round table in their quest for the holy grail.

Lovingly ripped off from the motion picture, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot is the fresh Broadway hit and irreverent

parody of the Arthurian legend. It was nominated for 14 Tony Awards, winning three, including Best New Musical for 2005.

Come join us as we seek the Grail. Who knows? Perhaps you will be the one to find it.

Performances at the Jackson County Comprehensive High School Auditorium are March 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28.

Curtain is at 7 p.m.. Seats are general admission $5 and may be purchased from any JCCHS Drama student or at the door.

For more information, contact Bonnie Roberts, Theatre Faculty, at 706-3675003 ext. 13804 or broberts@ jackson.k12.ga.us

Oklahoma! will be East Jackson High’s next musical East Jackson Comprehensive High School Drama Club will perform the beloved and classic musical Oklahoma!

March 26, March 28, March 29 and April 2 and 3 in the EJCHS auditorium.

The production is directed

by Ashley Ware. The vocals are directed by EJCHS Choral Director Alan Bunn and the Orchestra is led

by EJCHS Band Director Miguel Guisasola.

Based on Lynn Riggs play “Green Grow the Lilacs,” Oklahoma! was the first collaboration of the awardwinning team of Richard Rodgers (music) and Oscar Hammerstein II (book & lyrics), earning them the Pulitzer Prize in 1944.

Set against the backdrop of farming and ranching in Oklahoma around 1900, this Rogers & Hammerstein collaboration is full of fun, music and romance and features popular songs that have

become American standards such as “Oh What A Beautiful Mornin’,” “The Surrey With The Fringe on Top,” “People Will Say We’re In Love” and, of course, the rousing title song.

The cast and crew features more than 70 EJCHS students; from actors, dancers, singers and student leaders working back stage on set construction, lights, sound, props, costumes and publicity.

Oklahoma! stars Courtney Mull and Isabella Cleghorn as Laurey Williams, Bobby Reidling and Curley McLain, Daniel Derochers as Will Parker, Aly Hertzog and Marion Mealor as “Ado” Annie Carnes, Amber Griswold and Jessica Pass as Aunt Eller and Reeves Nesmith as Jud Fry. Tickets are $10 for Adults and $7 for students at the door. Tickets for the Sunday, March 29 matinee are $5.

in front of the nameplates of council members as Kenerly conducted the meeting – asking for comments, motions, seconds and votes from the student participants.

John Fouts filled the seat of Councilman David Poteet while Kedrick Zimmer served as Councilman Scott Butler. Charlie Brookshire served as attorney Thomas Mitchell with Jett Gonzales sitting in for Councilman Jim Higginbottom and Naomi Sims filling the seat of Councilman Jim Cleveland.

The middle school will award a first-, second- and third-place winner, and first place will move along to the district-wide contest.

WJMS FFA members compete in state career development event Three West Jackson Middle FFA members competed at the State Horse Judging Career Development Event. This event was held Feb. 7 at Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley.

The Horse Evaluation CDE is designed to develop the ability to select and evaluate both conformation and performance in horses. Participants in the Horse Evaluation CDE evaluate both conformation and performance of a variety of horse breeds.

Contestants also present oral reasons on selected classes to defend their selection decisions and take a test about breed, color, and tack identification.

FFA members do not know which types of classes they will judge until they get to the contest, so they spend a lot of time preparing for different possible scenarios.

The WJMS FFA Horse Judging Team left early Friday morning to travel to Fort Valley for the contest.

On the way, the team made good use of a wonderful practice opportunity at Jason English Performance Horse Farm in Madison.

At the farm, Mr. English and friends set up two different classes for FFA members from all across north Georgia to stop by and practice judging.

Pictured (from left to right): WJMS FFA members competing in the State FFA Horse Judging CDE included: 6th grade member Alyssa Bradley, 8th grade member Kate Schultz, and 7th grade member Hannah White.

West Jackson Middle Team members included Kate Schultz, Alyssa Bradley and Hannah White.

This team of three placed 16th out of nearly 50 teams.

There was only six points separating the 8th through

16th place teams.

Hannah White was the high-scoring individual on the WJMS FFA team, and she pulled off an impressive 15th place individually out of more than 160 FFA members.

Hannah White was the highscoring individual on the WJMS FFA team, and she pulled off an impressive 15th place individually.

EVENTS

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

essary to attend.

Model home grand opening at Sterling on the Lake. Families are invited to the grand opening of the newest decorated model home, built by Home South Communities. Visit from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 6507 Lemon Grass Lane in Flowery Branch to tour the model home. Parents will enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and a tasting from Growlers on Main while the kids create crafts and have their faces painted with Queen Elsa and Princess Anna. Visit www. sterlingonthelake.com or call 770-967-9777.

yes, it’s Ladies Night and the feelings right – to have some fun and raise money for Jackson County Family Connection on Friday, Feb. 27, at the Jefferson Civic Center.

The second annual event includes food, fun, drinks and dancing with the wonderful DJTOD plus a silent auction of gently used purses and ladies accessories. Tickets are $25. To get your ticket, call Jackson County Family Connection executive director Linda Foster at 706266-7345. Tickets are also available at Swirlee’s and Commerce City Hall.

Gwinnett Senior Games.

The 2015 Gwinnett Senior Games will be held this spring with entry deadline on March 13. Applications are now available at Gwinnett County libraries, senior centers, various businesses as well as online at www. gwinnettsenior games. org. For more information, contact Shirley Snow at 678-344-2277 or email sasnow427@comcast.net

Northeast Georgia Historical and Genealogical Society meeting.

The quarterly meeting of the Northeast Georgia Historical and Genealogical Society will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, at the Hall County Library, located at 127 Main St. NW in Gainesville. The discussion topic will be “Tips on Getting Others Involved in Our Family History Research -- Especially Younger Generations” and will moderated by president Julie Wingate.

Guests are welcome and there is no charge for admission. Call Marsha Hopkins at 770-532-6430.

Lanier Tech Foundation 5K. The second annual Lanier Tech Foundation 5K will be held on the Oakwood campus Saturday, Feb. 28, beginning with a one-mile fun run at 9:30 a.m. with the 5K following at 10 a.m. Registration for the event is currently going on at www.active. com, or click on the college website at www.laniertech. edu. Registration for the race is $25 and includes a goodie bag and race T-shirt.

Hoschton Women’s Civic Club meeting. The February meeting of the Hoschton Women’s Civic Club will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the Hoschton Depot.

New officers for the upcoming year will be installed.

Anyone interested in learning about the club is invited to attend. Dates for other upcoming Hoschton Women’s Civic Club meetings are March 24, April 28, May 26, June 23, July 28, Aug. 25, Sept. 22 and Oct. 27.

Reading with Ringling Brosthers. The Jefferson Library is participating in Reading with Ringling Brothers. Children ages 2-12 can earn a free ticket to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for reading any five books of their choice. Circus dates are Feb. 19-March 1 at Gwinnett Center. Pick up a Reward Card at the Service Desk and start reading, Visit www.readingwithringling. com for more information.

Peace Place Ball. A Night of Stars and Survivors will be held Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Winder Community Center.

The 15th annual Peace Place Ball, benefiting the battered women’s shelter serving Barrow, Banks and Jackson counties, will feature musical entertainment by Shaken Not Stirred and a silent auction. A cash bar will be offered by Top Dawg Tavern and the meal will be provided by Delicacies by Amy. Tickets are $55 each or $100 per couple. Tables for eight are $450. For tickets, call 770307-3633 ext.203.

Ladies Night fundraiser. Oh,

Night of Hope for Children.

The 17th annual Night of Hope for Children live and silence auction is scheduled on March 27 at the Winder Community Center. Tickets are $40 each. The evening of fundraiser for The Tree House, the children’s advocacy center working to reduce the impact and occurrence of child abuse through counseling, education, support and nurturing of children and families serving Barrow, Banks and Jackson counties, begins at 6 p.m. with the auction preview with a buffet dinner at 7. The live auction gets under way

at 8. If you are interested in auction tickets or in donating an item for the auction, call The Tree House at 770868-1900. You can make a tax-deductible donation and send it to The Tree House, P.O. Box 949, Winder, GA 30680. Learn more at www. thetreehouseinc.org Seat Yourself. A “chair-ity” fundraiser for the Braselton Downtown Development Authority will be held in conjunction with the Saturday, March 14, Milling Around Downtown, which will also feature a Rockin’ the Green 5K, Rock the Chalk sidewalk chart art contest and more.

Local artists and craftsmen have turned ordinary chairs and benches into works of art which willl be for sale on Frances Street from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 14.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will help downtown programs. Contact downtown director Amy Pinnell at 706-684-0369 or apinnell@ braselton.net. Visit www.

DowntownBraselton..com Rotary Day is March 21. The Braselton Rotary Club will be

hosting a Rotary Day garage sale on Saturday, March 21, on Tuscany Drive in Braselton. A preview sale is also being planned. Look for more information to come, but for now, save the date.

Fur Ball 2015. A gala to benefit the Humane Society of Jackson County will be held March 21 at the BraseltonStover House. The theme is Viva Paws Vegas with dining, dancing, casino gambling, auctions, raffles and a Tribute to Elvis show starring Doug Thompson. For tickets, got to www.HSJC.com or email FurBall 2015@windstream.net Shave-a-thon for childrehood cancer. St. Baldricks childhood cancer Shave-A Thon will be held on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Artistic Expressions Hari Salon iatthe Braselton Brothers Store building.

Again . If you are interested in being a shavee or setting up a team, connect to this site www.stbaldricks.org and find Artistic Expressions Hair Salon.

5B

Lights, Camera, Relay. The 2015 BraseltonHoschton Relay For Life will be held Saturday, May 16, in Braselton Park from 3-10 p.m. The theme is Lights!

Camera! Relay! for think movies and TV for your campsite and team theme.

A family-friendly day with games and activities for children is planned with the focus on the reasons we Relay: survivors and continuing to raise funds and awareness and reflecting on those lost. What to form a team or volunteer? Call Mandy Ryan at 706-543-2240, or visit RelayForLife.org/BHGA. This year’s chairwoman Joanne Gentile can be reached at jgentile62@gmail.com Memorial Day parade. Planning is under way for the Jackson County Memorial Day Parade to be held Monday, May 25, in downtown Jefferson. The parade will start at 2 p.m. Main Street Jefferson is coordinating; contact Beth Laughinghouse at blaughinghouse@ cityofjefferson.com or call 706-367-5714. Visit www. mainstreetjefferson.com

Challenged Child & Friends 5K and fun run/walk. The 23rd annual 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk will be March 1 at Riverside Military Academy.

Entry fee is $25 during preregistration which ends Feb. 20. For teams of 10 or more, the entry fee is $20 per entrant. After pre-registration ends and through race day, the entry is $30 for individuals and $25 per entrant for teams. Registration is available online at www.challengedchild.org or www. runnersfit.com. The 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk is set to start at 2 p.m. and the 5K at 2:30 p.m. Registration on race day starts at 1 p.m.

Teamup to show your smarts.

The Jackson County Certified Literate Community Program is hosting the second annual “ Are You Smarter Than A 10-Year-Old” at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, in the Jackson EMC auditorium. Teams of three people each will be competing to become the winning team for 2015. This is a fun, familyfriendly event that will be enjoyed by all. Admission is free but donations will be accepted to help the adult literacy programs in Jackson County. There will also be a silent auction. Call Sandra Fite at 706-367-8574.

Lunch and Learn. The Friends of the Braselton-West Jackson Library, are pleased and proud to have author Darrell “What the Huck” Huckaby and his humor as the March 11 Lunch and Learn program at 11:30 a.m. at the Braselton Municipal Court Building.

Bring $6 for soup, salad, rolls and dessert to the Community Room in the rear of the Municipal building. For reservations, call Debbie at 678-963-5423. Reservations are appreciated, but not nec-

Trusts As Beneficiaries: Why? This paid advertisement written by Jeff Cutter, Investment Advice by Scott Moore.

Often when I am performing a financial review for folks, I am asked whether they should name a trust as the beneficiary of an IRA. The first question I ask anyone who is thinking of naming a trust as an IRA beneficiary is . . . Why? Naming a trust as an IRA beneficiary can create unique problems and tax complications even if executed perfectly.

Therefore, it must only be done for the right reason and even then, I find that most beneficiary trusts are poorly drafted and cause more problems than they are worth. The consequences of an incorrect IRA beneficiary designation can have severe implications on your estate planning, especially when trusts are involved.

Generally, one of the advantages of a properly executed IRA beneficiary designation is the ability for a beneficiary to “stretch” required minimum distributions over the beneficiary’s lifetime. This strategy ensures that taxes are deferred as long as possible, thereby allowing the account to grow for a longer period of time and consequently giving the beneficiary a much larger stream of income.

Most commonly, a spouse is named as the primary beneficiary of an IRA and

any children are named as contingent beneficiaries. However, there are times when an IRA owner might not want a beneficiary to have control over the inherited asset. Some examples of this include when the beneficiary is a minor, when the IRA owner is involved in a second or a difficult marriage, or when there is a specials needs situation, just to name a few. One question I always ask, when a situation involves a second marriage, is if the kids get along with the second spouse. This is important because, without a trust, the spouse as primary beneficiary can make the entire IRA his or her own and disinherit your kids by changing the beneficiaries.

As mentioned above, there must be a good reason to leave an IRA to a trust (such as controlling access to the funds) because doing so will likely not make things easier or save on taxes.

Let’s take a look at some of the challenges when a trust is named as a beneficiary of an IRA. According to the IRS, only individuals may be considered designated beneficiaries for purposes of taking advantage of the stretch IRA provisions described above. A trust is not living and breathing so it does not have a lifespan. Therefore, if an entity is named as a beneficiary that is not an individual, then the IRA is treated as having no designated beneficiary. If this happens,

and the IRA owner dies before his required beginning date (April 1 after the year he or she turned age 70 1/2), then the entire IRA must be distributed to the trust beneficiaries by December 31 of the fifth year after death. If the IRA owner is past his required beginning date when he or she dies, then the distributions are made over the deceased owner’s remaining life expectancy according to the IRS life expectancy tables. This is what happens if the trust is not a “lookthrough” trust.

Nevertheless, if a trust is structured as a “look through” trust, it may take advantage of the stretch IRA provisions.

However, there are four requirements to be considered a look through trust.

The trust must be valid under state law, it must be irrevocable at death, the beneficiaries must be identifiable (be as specific as possible), and the required trust documentation must be provided by the trustee of the trust to the IRA plan administrator no later than October 31 of the year following the year of death.

Lastly the trust must have a provision to pay out all RMDs from the trust to the trust beneficiaries (known as a conduit trust). If the trust does not contain such a provision, then the trust is treated as though it accumulates IRA distributions, rather than pay them out. This causes a variety of issues.

In such a situation, the IRS will count all potential beneficiaries of the trust as beneficiaries of the IRA for purposes of determining the life expectancy to use when calculating required minimum distributions. If an individual in the line of trust beneficiaries is much older than the others, distributions may be taken out over that person’s shorter life expectancy. As an example, let’s say a trust names two children, ages 13 and 15, as 50 percent primary beneficiaries. The trust will hold (accumulate) the assets for the benefit of the children until they reach the age of 30, at which point they will receive the full distribution of their trust share. According to the provisions of the trust, if the children are not living when the IRA owner dies, the trust assets pass to Uncle Joe, the contingent beneficiary, who is 67 years old. In this case, the IRS would use Uncle Joe’s age of 67 to determine the appropriate IRA distribution, even if the trust assets are distributed to the primary beneficiaries of the trust, the children.

Trusts are often written to provide flexible provisions for the distribution of trust assets. But in the case of a trust that is deemed to accumulate IRA distributions (i.e., an accumulation trust), this could become a problem.

If one of the trust provisions allows for charitable giving, then the trust would be

viewed as having an entity (rather than an individual) as a beneficiary of the IRA (even if no specific charities are listed).

Therefore, all distributions would need to be taken within five years of death, or over the life expectancy of the IRA owner, depending on when you died as explained above.

It may be desirable, and necessary, to name a trust as the beneficiary of an IRA account to control access to the funds after your death. However, great care should be taken in making this decision. Be sure to work with qualified professionals because, if you mess it up you will not get a chance to fix it . . . because you are probably already dead.

For answers to these questions, contact Scott Moore 770-535-5000.

In addition to being a fiduciary, Scott is an Ed Slott Master Elite IRA Advisor.

210 Washington St. NW, Suite # 106 • Gainesville, GA 30501 • 770-535-5000 • 12600 Deerfield Parkway, Suite # 100 • Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 • 678-566-3590 www.MooresWealthManagement.com Investment advice is offered by Horter Investment Management, LLC a Registered Investment Adviser: Insurance and annuity products are sold separately through Moore’s Wealth Management. Securities transactions for Horter Investment Management clients are placed through Pershing Advisor Solutions, Trust Company of America, Jefferson National Monument Advisor, Fidelity, Security Benefit Life, ED&F Man Capital Markets, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by radical promoting and their editorial staff based on the original articles written by jeff cutter in the falmouth enterprise. This article has been rewritten for Scott Moore and the readers of the Moore’s Weekly Column. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security

CMYK 6B

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

ENTERTAINMENT

Don’t plan for proposal; ask yourself about future Hi, Carolyn: My boyfriend and I have been dating for five years now, and it’s been really great.

We’ve spent part of college together, overcame the transition of moving to a new and exciting city, landed happy career paths and moved into our first apartment together last year.

All in all, the past five years have been amazing, and we’ve really been able to grow up together, overcome challenges and positively push each other to be better people.

It really seems like the natural progression to get engaged, and I am 100 percent ready for the commitment.

I believe he is too based on hints from friends and family as well as our longterm conversations.

As a natural planner, I’ve already started looking at rings I would like, and I

Carolyn Hax know exactly what I want — style, price, etc.

I’ve even figured out when stores are having diamond sales so he would get the best deal.

How do I make sure he knows what ring I want without taking the romance out of it?

I feel like ring shopping puts so much pressure on men and can take the spark out of the actual proposal.

But what do I know? — Ready for the Altar Good question.

Do you know whether you’d spend as much money on him to show how com-

mitted you are to his happiness? Do you know whether you’d marry him without a ring at all?

Do you know what you’d do if your life — with him or without — took a radically different turn from what your natural-planner self had in mind?

Do you know for sure you want your life to include him for the sake of him, even if that meant stripping away the exciting city, happy career path and “spark?”

Or is it possible some of what is “really great” about these five years is the way they fit your expectations?

If your definition of “romance” requires certain details not be discussed in advance, do you know for sure romance and your investment in preserving it isn’t blocking your view of important ways you two don’t agree?

Do you know how little a

ring has to do with the rest of your life?

Call me a buzzkill or bsomething-else, but you’re talking jewelry and thirdparty hints when these have nothing to do with actual intimacy.

There is, of course, romance in surprises. And there’s also attraction in mystery.

But to live in service of sparks and romance is to live at the surface and, as you maybe unwittingly point out yourself, leave your true desires unsaid.

While some happy endings start that way, it leaves that outcome largely to chance. You’re hoping your true desires match, versus seeing for yourselves.

Plus, if familiarity kills romance, what will happen over decades of shared daily life?

There is a whole other level of romance, a profound one, based on sharing

WORKING IT OUT

your true desires among other things without fear.

Desires deeper than diamonds. It’s a romance that isn’t so fragile that it can be ruined just because you decided to say, “I’d like to marry you” or “I’d like to choose my own ring.”

On the contrary; it’s the trusting, abiding love you feel when you know you can talk about anything: your fears, frailties and frustrations with each other.

That’s because marriage rubs off all the varnish and sparkles we use, even unwittingly, to attract a mate.

To get what you want from a life partnership, the best thing you can do is accelerate that process by speaking and acting freely, as your truest self.

Think about the “do you know” questions and add a bunch of your own. Ask him a bunch, too.

When you know you haven’t held anything

back, and when you have reason to believe he’s been as forthright with you, and if you still feel certain you want to build the rest of your life with the two of you at the foundation, then: Tell him you want to get married. Get to the point where you never justify anything you decide using the phrase, “based on hints from friends and family.”

If you get to that intimate place still eagerly at each other’s sides, then mazel tov to you both.

Oddly enough, people tend to know they’ve reached this point when one would buy any ring the other wants, and the other would be fine without any ring at all.

Chat with Carolyn online at noon each Friday at www. washingtonpost.com.

Your input sought What do you like about your paper? Send an email to editor@clickthepaper.com, call 706-658-2683, or send a letter to The Paper, P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548.

You can also stop by and drop it off at The Paper office now located at 9924 Davis St., Suite 8, in Braselton.

You can also submit community announcements, church news, school happenings and more to editor@ clickthepaper.com

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

SOLUTION

cmyk CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 770-535-1199 www.gainesvilletimes.com

The Paper

Classifieds Services

Announcements

770-535-1199 Toll Free 1-800-395-5005

Childcare Kid’s World Child Care I-985 /Jesse Jewell, $100/wk 770-297-1500 Oakwood ChildCare 5006 Mc Ever Rd. Ages: 6wks & up. $125 770-536-4671

Firewood FIREWOOD FOR SALE $100 pick-up; load.

678-936-1380 FIREWOOD- Seasoned oak. Cut & split. Free Delivery. 470-208-9530; 678-978-0645 lve msg; 678-622-1477 lve msg

Announcements Notice ATTENTION CLASSIFIED CUSTOMERS The Times Classified Department asks that you verify and proof your classified ad(s) the first day that it is scheduled to print.

If any corrections need to be made, please contact our department, Monday through Friday, before 3pm.

The Times will not be held responsible for any issues that may arise after the first day of publication. classifieds@ gainesvilletimes.com 770-535-1199

Jobs Accounting Now hiring experienced accounting clerk to perform various accounting functions such as invoice entry, deposit entry, posting records, various data support entry. 3-5 years experience is required, excellent verbal and written communicator.

Send resumes and salary history to Allison.morrison@ mpequipment.com.

Construction Construction Company seeks the following: EXPERIENCED CDL DRIVERS JUNIOR ESTIMATOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT PART TIME GRADING EQUIPMENT OPERATORS MECHANIC’S HELPER (Must have Good Drivers License) Send Resume: resumeswithasg@ gmail.com

Dental

Jobs Accounting Adult Care, Help Wanted

Misc. Help Wanted Become a Home Care Giver. If caring for others is your passion then join our professional home care team and assist elderly and disabled in your community.

HomeNurse, inc. is seeking applicants for Nursing Assistants and Personal Care Assistants. Apply on line at www.homenurse. net Best Outside Job You’ve Ever Had. Training- Truck- Top dollar. Must be able to start today. Must be able to socialize. Call 678456-9190.

DJ 910-536-5172 Carriage Nissan and KIA in Gainesville, GA is looking for a Service Advisor. Please apply in person or email resume to: rtapp@carriageauto group.com No phone calls please Housekeepers Needed Apply in person: Holiday Inn, 400 EE Butler Pkwy, Gainesville.

No phone calls please LOCAL MANUFACTURING COMPANY NOW HIRING EXPERIENCED STAINLESS STEEL TIG WELDERS; 3-5 YEARS EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED, EXCELLENT VERBAL COMMUNICATOR, APPLY IN PERSON Monday-Friday at 2395 MURPHY BOULEVARD GAINESVILLE GA. ROUTE-SALES/ DELIVERY Clean driving record, hvy lifting, local routes.

Fax resume/work history: 770-534-0093 or email: cs@ highlandmountain water.com

Office/Clerical AUTOMOTIVE OFFICE This position is responsible for stocking in vehicles, accounts payable, etc, etc.

Previous dealership experience is required.

Dealertrack knowledge is a plus. Please apply in person or resume can be submitted by email: ahardman@hardman cars.com or by fax 770-718-3169

Professional Avita Community Partners is currently taking applications for the following positions: •FT Fiscal Operations (Accounting) Manager – Avita Administrative Offices – Flowery Branch •2 FT LPNs – Dahlonega Intensive Treatment Residence •FT Regional Clinical Director (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) – Covers a 7 County Territory •FT RN - Mobile Crisis Team •FT RN – Habersham/ Stephens Outpatient Clinics •PT CRC to work with Adults with a Developmental Disability - Gainesville To see other available positions or to research/ apply for a position listed above, please visit www.avitapartners.org/ career.php Only online applications accepted.

Questions - 678-5135723, EOE.

General Sales Agents

Restaurant Help

Seeking experienced Automotive Sales Consultants $5-10k Signing Bonus.

Serious inquiries only.

For info call 770-5702944

Medical Long Term Care Facility in Dahlonega, GA is seeking dependable LPN’s and CNA’s for 11-7. We have LPN, Baylor, 7A-7P and CNA, Baylor, 7P-7A available also. Contact Lee Ann Siler, 205-789-0055 or AnneMarie.Wingate@ ghs365.com

Stuff *Antiques/Collectibles *Appliances *Auctions *Bicycles *Building Supplies *Cemetery Lots For Sale *Christmas Trees *Coins & Jewelry *Computers *Furniture *Guns *Heavy Equipment *Household Items *Lawn Equipment *Livestock *Misc. For Sale *Musical Instruments *Office Equipment *Pets & Supplies

7B

Classification Index

*Sporting Equipment *Tickets *Wanted To Buy *Yard Sale *Yard Sale - Out Of Area

Homes & Real Estate

Homes - Rental Apartments - Furnished Apartments - Unfurnished Business Property For Rent Condominiums for Rent Duplexes For Rent Houses for Rent - Furnished Houses for Rent - Unfurnished Lake Home for Rent Mobile Homes for Rent *Roommates Wanted Rooms for Rent Vacation Property for Rent *Wanted to Rent

Acreage for Sale Business for Sale Business Property for Sale Condominiums for Sale Farms & Farm Land House for Sale - Hall House For Sale - Surrounding Investment Property Lake Home for Sale Lake Property for Sale Lots for Sale Mobile Homes for Sale Mountain Property Real Estate Wanted Surrounding Counties Vacation Property

Wheels

*All Terrain Vehicles *Antique Cars/Trucks *Auto Parts *Auto & Trucks Wanted *Autos for Sale *Four Wheel Drives *Import Cars *Motorcycles *Sport-Utility Vehicles *Tractor Trailers *Trucks *Vans

Recreation *Boats & Marine *RV’s/Travel Trailers

Apr 2013

Mon. - Fri. 8:30am - 5:00pm

Dental Lab in Augusta seeking experienced CERAMISTS and 3Shape Designers. Submit resume and references to dentjobs@comcast. net.

SALES CUSTOMER SERVICE ASST Gainesville, GA. location. Customer service and/or gen. office exp. Prefer 2 or 4 yr degree in Business Sales or Marketing and advanced computer skills, including Microsoft business applications. Excellent communication, problem solving and presentation skills a must. Will perform all admin job tasks and support to all team members Almark Foods 2118 Centennial Dr Gainesville, GA 30504 Email: rmaysonet@ almarkeggs.com

Child Care, Help Wanted Construction Dental Domestic Education Financial General Sales Agents Maintenance Management Medical Misc. Help Wanted Office/Clerical Part Time Help Wanted Poultry Production Professional Restaurant Help Security Technical Trades Truck Drivers Warehouse

*Business Opportunities *Financial *Happy Ads *Lost & Found *Notices *Personals *Situations Wanted

Place your ad today. Call

Services

of Braselton, Chateau Élan, Hoschton and Jackson County

*Home Improvement *Instruction *Landscaping *Misc Services *Painting & Papering *Plumbing *Pressure Washing *Remodeling & Repairs *Roofing *Welding

*Accounting *Adult Care *Carpentry *Catering *Childcare *Cleaning *Computer Services *Construction *Electricians *Firewood *Grading & Hauling *Handyman

The Paper Thursday, February 19, 2015

Kitchen/Dishwasher needed at Smoke House BBQ in Oakwood. No phone calls.

Technical DME Company in Gainesville is looking for a Full-Time PRN SERVICE TECHNICIAN Must be able to pass a background check, drug screen, and have a good MVR. Please fax resume to 770-536-7640 or E-mail: chandler. alan1@gmail.com Northeast GA Oldest GM Dealership is growing. WE NEED TECHNICIANS pay up to $26 per flat rate hour based on qualification and experience. Good benefits and working conditions. Call Paul Fuller 770-718-3140 Now Hiring: Driver/ Service Technician for portable restroom service co. Applicant must have verifiable truck operating experience and clean MVR. Drug screen & DOT physical required.

Applications by appointment only.

Call 770-887-9098

The Hall County FSA Office is seeking an individual for a permanent Program Technician position.

Individual needs to be highly motivated with good communication and computer skills.

This position is for office assistance to help administer Federal farm programs to producers in the Northeast Georgia area. Interested persons must apply on line at www.usajobs. gov. Applications will be accepted through February 19, 2015.

Salary will depend on the experience of the person selected, but no less than $14.30 per hour.

All applicants shall see full vacancy announcement posted at www.usajobs.gov for MANDATORY application and qualification requirements.

Candidates who do not submit the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA’s) supplemental statements will not be considered.

FSA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Trades COMM ELECTRICIANS for long term work in Gainesville. 3 yrs min exp. with own tools. Call 678-990-1105 to apply EXPERIENCED ONLY!!

SCRAPER OPERATORS & HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANICS Full Benefits package.

Apply in Person 1364 Candler Road Gainesville, GA *We are a drug free work place.

Experienced tire technician. $8.50 to $12.50/hr based on experience. Apply in person with Jack or Bill Roper at Tire Barn, 1522 MLK Jr. Blvd., Gainesville 30501 Regional HVAC/R Company looking for qualified HVAC/R Service Technician, 5 years experienced in HVAC/R service, Chillers a plus.

Great benefits; vacation, health insurance, 401K, profit sharing, schooling and competitive pay.

We promote from within.

Contact Service @ 770-614-9214 Ext. 327 dgoligoski@ georgia mechanical.com WANTED: CERTIFIED AUTO TECHNICIAN Must have own tool., Small shop with lots of work & money to be made. Call 9am-5pm.

770-318-8009; 770-9833981

Truck Drivers Allied Paving Contractors is currently seeking experienced DOT Dump Truck Drivers. Class B License Required. Benefits include 401K, paid vacation & holidays.

Salary contingent on experience. Apply in person at 132 Beck Rd., Pendergrass, GA or online at: paveone.com or call 706-693-4042.

Allied Paving is a Drug Free Workplace.

CDL CLASS A DRIVER Metro Atlanta local runs.

770-560-1426 CLASS A CDL DRIVERS needed for local trailer spotting company.

Must have clean MVR. Top pay and benefits.

Home everyday/night.

Please call 678-771-2930 or go to our website at www. lazerspot.com Drivers w/ CDLLocal jobs in Buford, Jefferson and Athens at Morgan Concrete.

Need 2 years driving experience. Great starting pay and benefits. Call Mel (800)448-2830.

OTR and DUMP TRUCK DRIVERS-Canton, GA company now hiring.

2 years experience required. Call 770-4791086x1

Stuff Appliances WASHER & DRYER Kenmore. Exc Cond. $250. 770-983-1507

*Requires payment in advance.

Furniture

BED Queen Pillow Top Mattress Set-NEWstill in plastic. $200 706-347-4814 Can Deliver Ethan Allen French Country Sofa, two cushion with five pillows, light yellow with patterned blue and green stripes.

Excellent condition smoke free home.

Call 678-960-4350 LIVING ROOM FURN: Entertainment Center, has 2 doors & 3 shelves behind glass (includes NON-flat screen 32” Sharp TV, still in great cond.), 2 end tables & 1 coffee table. Ent. Center from Lowe’s, tables from Rooms-To-Go, all honey colored, all for $150.

770-561-5308 Oak Queen Bookcase Headboard w/reading light $100; Full size Headboard, white. $75; Sony 32” TV $100. Call after 5pm. 678-630-2062 Table- dark wood, Counter height, 70” square w/8 Chairs. $575.

Wine Cabinet-dk wood 70Hx18Wx13D. $265 Murphy BedQueen size, bookcase design, in white. $2200.

All Like New!! 770-8468568 or 770-846-3286

Guns Small Collection For Sale - 2 S&W’s email: kfd1969@ yahoo.com

Lawn Equipment 1 Camper Top for a full size Truck. $75 6am-6pm.678-232-2843

Misc. For Sale Computer, Computer Desk, Bar-B- Que Grill.

Must sell 678-992-3952 EMBROIDERY MACHINE- Happy 1 head, 12 needles. $6,000. 706-531-4798

FISHER PRICE Bounce & Spin Zebra, $20; Graco Pack ‘N Play, navy & yellow, older style, $25; VTech Table/ Walker $10; Tiny Love Mobile, w/ Mozart & Beethoven, $10; Dr. Brown’s Electric Bottle Steam Sterilizer System, still in exc. cond. $45. South Hall area. 770-561-5308 FORD 1968 Tractor 2000 w/ 60 in. bush hog, gas engine, asking $4,200.

404-435-6360 GEO 1994 Tracker, 4WD, auto.

Please call 706-677-4547 HO Scale Model Trains includes engines, freight & pass cars, buildings, track and power packs.

678-630-3117 HOLIDAY BARBIES (4). from 1980’S; I Love Lucy Dolls (4) from the series; Elvis Dolls (2)1 blk jump suit & 1 in white eagle suit; Star Wars Lady Dolls (2) $250/obo. 678-960-3034 PIERCE’S PINE STRAW - We now have fresh fallen #1 Slash Straw @ $3.25 per bale. Picked up $3.50 per bale delivered. We also now have #1 Savannah Long Leaf Straw. Pickup up $4 per bale. $4.50 delivered. Order while it is new & beautiful.

We are looking for Professional Spreaders.

Call me for pricing at 678-617-0403 or Margie, 678-677-6352 Call for orders after 6pm.

Thank-You Pierce’s Pinestraw We will spread!!

1507 Martin Luther King Blvd. Gainesville, GA QUEEN SET- Brand New! $175. Still in plastic.

Delivery available. 678617-7353 SPRAY PAINTERCraftsman. 15 gallons.

150psi maximum, 120 volts, 1.5hp running, single cyl, oil free. $125.

704-691-4412

Pets & Supplies 6 girl 3 boy chocolate labs for sale. $500. $100 deposit and remaining $400 paid at pick up. Will be ready by mid March. Mom on site, family dog. AKC registered.

770-842-9954

SUPER SWEET and SMART Australian Shepherd/ Golden Lab Mix puppies. For sale to a loving home. $100. Call Lynn @ 770-654-9208.

Sporting Equipment Fly Rod and Reel.

Never used. White River 7ft, 3pc graphite rod.

TFO Prism, 5/6 reel $175. 770-366-5443

Homes-Rentals ApartmentsUnfurnished

MYRTLE TERRACES Senior Independent Living Community 1bdrm from $660 2 bdrm from $765 Certain age & income restrictions apply!

Water, trash and electric included in rent Call today for more info 770-538-0928 2 BR, 1 1/2 BA, all new appls, no pets, safe secure gated facility $650 plus utilites and wifi. 770-534-5011 Cedar Springs2BR. $740; 770-287-1456 callapartments.com

Duplexes For Rent Pine Forest- Oakwood 2BR/1BA $740/mo. 770287-1456 callapartments.com

Houses For RentUnfurnished Apts/Homes. General Property Mgmt.

770-287-1456 www. callapartments.com

Murrayville 4BR. Total electric $800/mo + dep 678-615-4247 678-450-5990 No Rent Until March 1st Expires 2/28/15 3BR/2BA Homes Call Sun Homes 888-246-2803 Countrysidelake lanier.com EHO WAC

Mobile Homes For Rent Gainesville, S/N Hall 1-3BR $85 & up, per wk No app fee. 1 week free 770-534-7596

Roommates Wanted

HOUSES & APTS. Avail in Gainesville & Hall Co. The Simpson Co. 770-532-9911

MEN- Be$t, Pvt home, Fur Br, All Priv + Xtras, Oakwd 770-530-1110

Oakwood - 2/1.5, yard very safe, H/A $690$740. 678-357-5044

Rooms For Rent

Business Property For Rent STORE- Available Now. 2950 sq ft. $600/mo +dep. E. Hall area. No calls after 8pm. 678687-5180

Condominiums For Rent 2/2 w/Garage, Quiet, 1 story, Sardis. Lawn care. 770-313-1333 3BR/2BA Candler Street Condominiums near Brenau. $1050/mo includes water, sewer & trash pickup. 678-8592378

Private Rooms w/bath.

Fully furnished w/cable) No dep/util fees. $100$135/wk. 678-328-9980

Business Property For Sale Preschool for Sale Hall/Gwinnett area Full Center over 125 Children Owner Moving Call Ms. Flowers 404419-6805

House For Sale-Hall County Cresswind - Home For Sale By Owner.

Lovely gated, active adult community.

3BR/2.5BA 2624 sq ft.

Upgrades thru-out.

Private patio with pergola. $379,700. For appt. call 770-846-8568 or 770-846-3286

Recreation Boats & Marine SINGLE SLIP DOCK. w/Party Deck. Good shape, good wood, 40’ ramp, attached swim deck & anchor poles. $4500. 678-773-0589 To all persons claiming an interest in: 1991 20’ 200XT - Vision David C Chapman will apply to SCDNR for title on watercraft. If you have any claim to the watercraft, contact SCDNR at (803) 7343858. Upon thirty days after the date of the last advertisement if no claim of interest is made and the watercraft has not been reported stolen, SCDNR shall issue clear title. Case No: 20141126951077

Wheels Antique Cars/Trucks

Homes & Real Estate Acreage For Sale Three Tracts of Land For Sale in Dawsonville, GA (5.2, 12.4 and 63 acres). Great for hunting, fishing, camping or building your dream home.

Please contact Jane at 678-522-6787.

CADILLAC 1991 Eldorado. New frt tires, 100k. Good mpg. No wreck. $3900 678-9438985 FORD 1965 Galaxy. 352, 2 dr, complete car. Will trade. $1875/OBO. 770912-4557

Autos For Sale BUICK 2002 Century V6, 99k miles, well maint’d, Exc Cond. 4dr. $3800.

678-316-9780 FORD 2005 Taurus.

Excellent paint, am/fm/ cd, elect winds $3500. 228-254-6836

Import Cars NISSAN 1986 300ZX 5spd,T-top,Looks&Runs good $3000 or OBO 770-561-7032 MAZDA 2001 626, auto, A/C, every works well, $3,850 obo. 706-6934520 MERCEDES 2000 E-320.

AWD. Loaded.

Exc Cond. $5900.

404-910-2960 TOYOTA 1996 Camry.

Lavender. 4cyl, 140k. $2700. 706-949-4688

Vans DODGE 1996 3500 Van. 15 pass. 51K miles, Very Clean. $5300. Call Don 770-883-7683 GMC 2013 G2500 Conversion High-top Van, 7524 miles, 9 passenger, big screen TV, fully loaded, must see, $49,900.

678-725-3290

8B

The Paper | Thursday, February 19, 2015

Spring Term Registration SPONSORED BY:

The Braselton Visitors Bureau Authority

Zoom on over to Braselton to learn more about BULLI and our Spring courses, including The History of Racing in Georgia!

Join Brenau University Learning and Leisure Institute (BULLI), an organization for mature adults who enjoy learning, connecting with peers, staying active and having fun!

SPRING TERM REGISTRATION • BRASELTON DATE: Tuesday, February 24, 2015 TIME: Social Time & Refreshments - 5:30 p.m., Information Session - 6:00 p.m.

PLACE: Country Inn & Suites - 925 Georgia HWY 124 • Braselton, GA 30517 For more information call 706-654-5720.

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COME ENJOY SOCIALIZING WITH YOUR PEERS WHILE LEARNING ABOUT BULLI! BULLI – Where Intellectual Curiosity Meets Friendship and Fun!