The Paper January 15, 2015 Edition by The Times

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What will Benton Elementary’s future be? By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

Jackson County School District facilities on the east side of the county have empty classrooms while the westside student population growth is pushing Jackson County Comprehensive High School as well as West Jackson Middle close to capacity. That is in spite of the fact that nearly 70 percent of the county’s geographic area is zoned for eastside school attendance. Facilities planning is facing the Jackson County Board of Education as strategic planning efforts are also under way. With so many considerations ahead including the possible re-purposing of Benton Elementary School, the school board agreed Monday to go back to the community for input, specifically from the Benton Elementary School community. Meetings have been set for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, and 7:30 p.m. on Thurs-

Two meetings set to get comments on possible re-purposing of oldest elementary school day, Feb. 5. Both sessions will convene at East Jackson County Comprehensive High School. Interested parties will be invited to address the school board to share thoughts and each person is being asked to limit their comments to three minutes or less. On the system website, individuals are also invited to provide feedback through an on-line survey found at www.surveymonkey. com/s/5GG3ZWP On the westside, two smaller schools are being consolidated next year in an ongoing construction expansion project on a new named West Jackson Middle School campus with the remaining school to be renovated for a new middle school facility. The project at West

Jackson Intermediate School, which has just exited the “hard hat” time frame as painting and ceiling tiles are going in, will address two of the system’s “undersized” schools, leaving three schools below the state threshold of 450 students for the 2015-16 school year. How to address the student population and provide quality learning environments mean decisions are at hand for the Jackson County Board of Education as the school system’s five-year facilities plan update, required by the State Department of Education, must be formulated in early spring. The under-utilized classrooms on the east side is problematic for the school system which, based on existing enrollment, is pro-

jected to be waiting for state capital entitlement dollars until perhaps 2022-2026. According to Jackson County Superintendent of Schools Dr. April Howard, if there are extra classrooms, there are no state funds available and the system must then rely almost totally on local funds, primarily Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST), referendums which have previously received voter support. As a part of the facilities plan effort, discussions – which Howard called difficult conversations at the work session -- have begun about the possible fate of the system’s oldest school. Benton Elementary School is one of the five schools below the base size recommended by the state. With the consolidation of West Jackson Intermediate and West Jackson Primary coming next year, only Benton, Maysville

See BENTON, 3A

Farah Bohannon The Paper

Braselton Police Chief Terry Esco presented the Lifesaving Award to Officer Jack Tiller at Monday’s meeting to recognize his role in helping a struggling diner at El Centinela.

Braselton Police Chief Terry Esco presented the Lifesaving Award to Capt. Michael Steffman at Monday’s meeting to recognize his role in helping a struggling diner at El Centinela.

Braselton celebrates PlanFirst designation, honors officers with Lifesaving recognitions By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

At the Braselton Town Council’s Jan. 12 meeting, three awards were distributed that left town officials proud of their achievements — relating specifically to town accomplishments and live-saving endeavors. Adrianne Wood from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) awarded Braselton Mayor Bill Orr, Town Manager Jennifer Dees and the council members with a very special award. Braselton is one of the 10 inaugural PlanFirst communities in the state. “PlanFirst recognizes and re-

wards communities that not only pay attention to what they put into their comprehensive plan, but ones that actually utilize it and implement it well while having something to show for it. I congratulate you on being one of the designated communities to achieve PlanFirst, an organization that offers many incentives,” said Wood. PlanFirst is the DCA’s program to recognize and reward communities that clearly demonstrate an established pattern of successfully implementing their Local Comprehensive Plan, which Braselton has done. There are several incentive packages to communities who are involved with PlanFirst, which

include access to funding and permits from the Department of Community Affairs, Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) and OneGeorgia Authority. Qualified local governments also get assistance from the DCA and the regional commission to develop a Local Comprehensive Plan. During the three-year designation period, PlanFirst Community Ddesignees will receive incentives such as statewide recognition for community achievement, use of the PlanFirst logo, recognition on the PlanFirst website, a special

See BRASELTON, 2A

Farah Bohannon The Paper

Braselton Mayor Bill Orr accepts the PlanFirst designation from Adrianne Wood of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. The town is one of the first 10 recipients of the special award in the state.

Medical Plaza B open with more services on the way By JEFF GILL

Regional staff

The first wave of physician offices opened today at Medical Plaza B, but emergency, inpatient and other services in the adjoining Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton will be on hold until at least April. Ten specialty practices and services are slated to start business in the five-story, 113,000-square-foot medical office building off Ga. 347, one mile west of Ga. 211. Additional services are set to open Jan. 19, including The Heart Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center and the hospital’s

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cardiac testing lab. And Northeast Georgia Health System auxiliary members including Frank and Kathy Tedeschi are already onsite offering directional and other assistance to patients and visitors. “This is so exciting so see the vision come to fruition,” said Kathy Tedeschi. She and her husband have been volunteering on the Gainesville campus for three years, but as residents of The Village at Deaton Creek, the close proximity of the new facility to their home is adding to the convenience of donating their time. “This is going to be a very special hospital,” she said, commenting

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that being able to put blessings and prayers in the time capsule for the groundbreaking ceremonies was memorable. Frank Tedeschi said time lapse cameras on the health system’s website have been exciting to look back on. Meanwhile, officials said the long-awaited 100-bed hospital may open past the announced April 1 target date. The originally opening date had been May but work progressed well prompting the previous announcement for the April 1 date. “All kinds of things have come into play, so (officials) are questioning that at the moment,” said Beth Downs, spokeswoman at the

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Braselton hospital. In the meantime, she added, “We’re trying very hard (so) that people don’t get confused and think the hospital is open.” Anthony Williamson, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton president, said Medical Plaza B marks another milestone in Gainesville-based Northeast Georgia Health System’s efforts to provide health care closer to home for residents of Braselton and surrounding communities. “While the hospital will not open until later in the spring, as our staff trains and readies

See MEDICAL, 2A

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The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

LeAnne Akin The Paper

The cafe inside Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton was to open on Wednesday to begin providing service from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. to those seeing physicians, having procedures or visiting Medical Plaza B. The cafe is also open to the community. Below: Practices are now seeing patients inside Medical Plaza B so auxiliary members including Frank and Kathy Tedeschi are among the volunteers and staffers greeting patients and visitors. The hospital is not opening until this spring. Signage is found outside and inside the facility to help provide directions to the medical offices. See more at ClickThePaper.com

For The Paper

Pictured are Dan Tripp, Vice President for Human Resources of TenCate GeoSynthetics in Jefferson; Annette Bates, Executive Director of Piedmont CASA; and Lee Bryan, President of TenCate GeoSynthetics Americas.

TenCate supports Piedmont CASA’s Feb. 7 HeART for Children, Heart for Chocolate event One of the local companies that sponsored Piedmont CASA at the “HeART for Children, Heart for Chocolate” Gala in 2013 and 2014 has committed to a 2015 sponsorship: TenCate GeoSynthetics in Jefferson. CASA gratefully presents appreciation plaque to TenCate for participation. TenCate GeoSynthetics is the global leader in geosynthetics and has been a consistent supporter of Piedmont CASA through their annual HeART for Children, Heart for Chocolate fundraising gala. Other sponsors for the 2014 event were: Title Sponsor: Higher Grounds Coffee Shop/Polaris Aviation; Presenting Sponsor: Northeast Georgia Physicians Group; Solvay and Jackson EMC. Many other local companies and personal sponsors have committed to the cause. This event helps Piedmont CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) train and assist more volunteers to advocate for local abused and neglected children. These children have the benefit of the sustained attention and effort of a trained community CASA volunteer who comes to court to advocate in

BRASELTON Continued from 1A

PlanFirst plaque indicating dates of designation and free attendance to any Community Planning Institute event, plus more. Mayor Orr proudly received the award from Wood and expressed his gratitude for her attendance. “We are so thrilled to receive this achievement,” said Orr. A Lifesaving Award was given to two Braselton Police Department employees who saved a man’s life without even batting an eye. Police Chief Terry Esco said that a group from the department, including Town Manager Jennifer Dees, was in the middle of a meal at El Centinela, a local Mexican restaurant, when they realized a man began behaving oddly. Capt. Michael Steffman and Officer Zack Tiller quickly sprang into action when they realized the man was choking and was unable to breathe. Steffman performed the emergency Heimlich Maneuver on the man with the help of Tiller, and both of their valiant efforts caused the large piece of food to exit the windpipe.

the child’s best interest. The 2015 “HeART for Children, Heart for Chocolate Gala” will be Feb. 7 at the Braselton-Stover House. If you or your company would like to be a sponsor, contact Annette at 706-3876375 or by going to www. piedmontcasa.org.

Volunteer training scheduled for Jan. 22 Be the difference in a foster child’s life by speaking for their needs. Volunteers are needed for the important work of making sure the needs of foster children are met in the court system, school and other areas of their lives. Training is 30 hours and is free. The next class begins Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Episcopal Church, St. Anthony’s Drive in Winder. Anyone can come to this first session to see if this is right for them with no obligation to continue the training. For more information, visit www.Piedmontcasa.org or call 706-387-6375. Lift up a child’s voice. A child’s life.

“Capt. Steffman and Officer Tiller are commended for their lifesaving actions that exemplify the highest standards of the Braselton Police Department and are congratulated for saving the life of a Braselton resident,” said Assistant Police Chief Lou Solis. Both Steffman and Tiller were presented the official award by Esco. Look for more related to the Lifesaving Award in an upcoming issue of The Paper. Once the awards were distributed, the meeting continued with a voting session. The request for a waiver of a $50 business license late fee for Cindy Phillips State Farm was denied. In other action, the qualifying fee ordinance for the 2015 election was approved. On the ballot for this year will be District 1 held by Richard Mayberry and District 3 held by Tony Funari. The GEFA loan CWSRF 14-010 loan resolution for the northeast relief sewer and Mulberry River sewer interception projects were accepted. Dees provided all of the required paperwork for the project, and simply needed a vote from the mayor and council members. An alcoholic beverage li-

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MEDICAL

Continued from 1A the new facility to provide inpatient care, we wanted to open several new physician offices ... to begin to orient the community and our practices to the new facilities,” he said. “This will allow our patients and visitors to become familiar with the campus, learn where to park and begin enjoying amenities like the new café.” The café will open to the public on Wednesday and serve from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited to come and dine. The Rotary Club of Braselton will be hosted Thursday morning for the dedication ceremony for the Rotarysponsored flag plaza. The club’s signature donation was among the first major gifts to the Braselton campus. Many of the practices moving to Medical Plaza B are coming from nearby Medical Plaza 1 or Thompson Mill Medical Offices. Plaza B and Plaza 1 are on the same 119-acre campus, with plans calling for

an eventual Medical Plaza 2. The hospital serves as the campus’ A building, and there are plans for C and D buildings, Downs said. Currently separated by a creek, a bridge is now under construction to directly connect Medical Plaza 1 to Medical Plaza B and the hospital. Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton con-

struction “is essentially complete, though the contractor will work through small items on the punch list into February,” Williamson has said. The next few months will be spent moving furniture, installing equipment, testing technology and processes and training staff, among other tasks, he said. The hospital will have

New year spurring excitement By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper. com

Jackson County and the communities located inside of it are amped up for a new

cense for Mizu Asian Fusion, located at 7380 Spout Springs Road, was approved as well. It is an existing restaurant that recently underwent new ownership. As for the state qualifying fee ordinance for the upcoming November election, the fee is based on the compensation received by the elected official this year. Even though compensation will be higher for the individual who takes office, the fee is still $36, or 3 percent of the annual salary. In other business, appointments were announced including Mayor Pro Tempore Tony Funari, who serves in the District 3 post; Jennifer Dees as Town Manager, Voting Registrar and Elections Superintendent; Gregory Jay as Attorney; Peggy Slappey to the Braselton Visitors Bureau Authority; and Jennifer Kidd to the Braselton Downtown Development Authority to fill the remainder of the term ending July 2017 which was vacated by Peggy Kriegel.

year. To most, a new year serves as a blank slate, or an opportunity to start fresh. A new year also means there is plenty of time for productivity and making memories. Braselton Assistant Chief of Police Lou Solis was all smiles when he described the excitement he has for 2015, both police and nonpolice related. “2015 will be a great one,” said Solis. “There is a lot happening in Braselton. I am excited to see how the modifications of Highway 53 will decrease congestion and wrecks. I think it will be a lot safer for our drivers, and most definitely will be a lot more free-flowing.” He also mentioned the new hospital that is slated to open this spring, and all of the benefits it will bring to Braselton and the surrounding area. Solis also is anticipating the department becoming state certified as a police department. He is in the process of completing the documents for that and looks forward to receiving the officer’s new police vehicles. “The Braselton Police Department has a lot to look forward to, especially the state certification and an officer position becoming available. I look for-

ward to hiring our newest officer,” said Solis. Solis said 2015 started on a wonderful note when two of his officers, Capt. Michael Steffman and Officer Zach Tiller saved a man’s life while dining at Braselton’s El Centinela. Town Manager Jennifer Dees was also at the restaurant when this occurred and she mentioned how the humble the attitudes of the officers were. She said they jumped into action when they noticed the choking, saved the man’s life and sat back down to finish their meal once all was said and done. “I don’t even think they exchanged names,” said Dees. Dees is also ready to take on 2015, and mentioned a list of happenings for the town that will be huge, including the hospital opening, starting the planning process for Braselton’s 100th birthday and the new Highway 53 traffic signals. She is also excited for the start of the town green construction and officially receiving Main Street status. Downtown Director Amy Pinnell is also hopeful about receiving Main Street status this year. “Main Street status has been a goal for quite some time now, and it is always exciting to reach your

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goals. Announcements should be made sometime next month from the Georgia Main Street Office, so that is exciting,” said Pinnell. Pinnell has worked diligently throughout 2014 to add more events to the calendar, and is excited to report that there are at least two to look forward to so far — the Chocolate Walk on Feb. 5 and Milling Around Downtown on March 14. Her hopes are to bring more people to town and offer events for people of all ages to enjoy. Jefferson Mayor Roy Plott said he believes that 2014 was a great year for Jefferson, and he is excited for the growth of that year to continue into 2015. He said Jefferson saw housing, commercial development and industrial development return as the economy picked up. For the first time in five years, the city saw a slight increase in the tax digest. “Presently, there is 1.9 million square feet of industrial space under construction,” said Plott. “One million of that has already been taken by new or existing industry expansion. I fully expect that the 845,000 square feet of speculative

See NEW YEAR, 7A

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BENTON

Continued from 1A Elementary and North Jackson Elementary would be undersized for the 2015-16 school year. Benton was last renovated in 2002 and needs updates so the board needs to decide as a part of its facilities plan update whether to reallocate ESPLOST dollars for the renovation. It’s about setting the best system-wide priorities, said Howard at the Jan. 8 work session. She provided a briefer recap of a presentation, which included a PowerPoint, at the Jan. 12 school board meeting. If closure is considered, a plan would be developed to “honor and carry on the name of Benton Elementary School and not just “mothball” the facility which has been educating children since 1936. But some possibilities for the future of Benton Elementary are already being explored. While the idea of a Pre-K center is not feasible because of the 19-mile distance some 4-year-olds would have to travel by bus, a professional learning center for the district or overflow of Jackson County Schools’ central office could be considered. Howard also noted that the Northeast Georgia Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) is also looking for new facilities as the former Winterville Elementary facility where RESA is currently located is in need of costly repairs which RESA has no means of funding. She said Dr. Keith Emerson, director of RESA, spoke at the Jan. 8 work session. He noted RESA is also asking Clarke County and Barrow County about possible relocation sites. What Benton would become must be meaningful for the community, said Howard. Community members who say they consider Benton Elementary to be the heart of the community attended Monday’s meeting to make appeals to the board to keep Benton open while others have shown their support for the school and its students in other ways including contacting board members.

Don’t let the first school in our district go, says the Facebook page, Save Benton Elementary, which was set up by Beth Walker, who spoke at Monday’s board meeting. She also set up an online petition and has been urging Maysville area residents and school supporters to sign it or stop by the Harold W. Swindle Library and support a petition signing which was held from 1-4 p.m. on Monday. The online petition reads: “We the residents of Nicholson call on the elected board members to please vote to keep Benton Elementary School open as a thriving asset to our district and community. We understand repairs and updates are needed to our school. Renovations were done years ago. It is our understanding that Benton is due for renovations in the school year. We are asking that the board to accept that, make the renovations and keep Benton school a part of our neighborhood and growing community.” Some of the online petition signers added comments such as “Please save Benton! I loved this school as a child” and “We love this school and want to see it keep educating children” and “We’ve always had Benton Pride in our home. I had four children to go to BES. You couldn’t ask for a better school. It would be very sad to see it close.” At the meeting, Walker urged board members to consider the Benton Elementary School family which would be disrupted if the school closed. “I am asking, begging you to keep this school open,” said Walker, who noted that her child attends Benton. She noted she is also a taxpayer. “I would love to see my grandchildren go there if I have any.” She pointed to the 79-year history of the school which opened in 1936 and noted that Benton’s test scores ranks among the top n the county. Pamela Lee also spoke. The PTO president was very emotional as she spoke about the potential closing. She said Benton was a “caring, loving family” where everyone knows each other. She said Principal Pam Shields and Assistant Principal Shirley White know all the

students and their strengths and weaknesses and they always have an open door. She said there is no comparison between the Benton experience and what would be available at a larger school. “If Benton Elementary closes, the heart of the community is gone,” said Lee, who mentioned the emotional devastation some South Jackson Elementary School families felt when their school was closed and students were shifted to the campus of Kings Bridge. That move put South Jackson Elementary inside the Benton school zone. Sunshine Hammonds said her youngest son is at Benton but it was difficult coping with her children crying over their earlier displacement and now they have to ask “Why again?” And is Benton going to be the last one or will there be more? The issue is about numbers and money, she noted but asked when the school board was going to put the children first. “My heart is breaking,” said Hammonds, who explained that she has made Jackson County her home for the past 17 years and Benton Elementary is where her heart is. She serves as PTO vice president. “Search your heart and soul when you make your decision,” urged Hammonds. Board chairman Lynn Wheeler acknowledged the decision would be a difficult one and she appreciated the speakers’ interest and concern. Dr. Howard agreed, saying she knows the love and passion they have for Benton Elementary and thanks to the quality teachers and staff, there is no question that Benton has a very fine program. “This is going to be really challenging for us,” said Howard, who explained that should the long-term plans for the school system include closure of Benton Elementary, two public hearings would be required. Howard explained that teachers follow students so comments about larger class sizes are incorrect as class size would not be impacted. Instead, teachers and their same number of students would be relocated to other

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Beth Walker urged the Jackson County Board of Education not to ignore the history of Benton Elementary School and destroy its “family” by closing the school. Pamela Lee and Sunshine Hammonds also voiced their support for keeping Benton Elementary School. campuses where there are currently empty classrooms. While there would be administrative positions and media center and custodial positions lost, teaching positions would not be impacted. Likely current personnel could be relocated within the system as other positions open due to attrition. At the work session, the PowerPoint showed how the state estimates for schools as well as the maximum enrollment estimates compare and what percentage of capacity each school stands The school system had been considering utilizing ESPLOST for renovation of Gordon Street School into a

space for the new Foothills Charter High School and a future career academy but funding priorities could be changed as the system would need to invest as much as $20,000 toward the site approval process as Gordon Street School is not currently a state-approved site. At the work session, Howard said Foothills Charter Hill School could be located in six or eight classrooms anywhere in the school system as it will meet from 4-8 p.m. and Gordon Street School could be offered as another possible relocation site for Northeast Georgia RESA. Also to be considered,

with East Jackson Comprehensive High School having nearly two dozen vacant classrooms, another high school for Jackson County is likely two ESPLOSTs away, said Howard at the work session. “There are big questions ahead,” said Howard. “There are many factors to the considered. We are brainstorming and the board of being thoughtful about these decisions.” No school board action related to Benton Elementary’s future will made until after the scheduled community meetings but a recommendation is expected at the board’s Feb. 9 meeting.

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OBITUARIES Denny Arrington

Died Jan. 8, 2015 Paul “Denny” Arrington, 75, of Braselton, died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Mary Belle (Merb) Dilbeck Arrington; and sister, Diane Byers Van Devender. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Linda Scott Arrington; children, Greg and Kay Arrington of Lawrenceville and Shane and Cathy Arrington of Buford; grandchildren, Jake Arrington and Amanda Arrington; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ralph and Eloise Scott of Cleveland; nieces, Paige Southard and Terri Christopher; and several cousins. Born Jan. 25, 1939 in Atlanta, he was a 1957 graduate of Northside High School in Atlanta and attended Georgia State University. He retired after 37 years as coowner of Arrington & Blount Ford in Lawrenceville. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He was a Mason, Shriner and member of Scottish Rite and the Lawrenceville Masonic Lodge for more than 50 years. He was a member of the Yaarab Temple in Atlanta. He was a member of Central Baptist Church in Lawrenceville. He was a member of the Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce and other organizations. He was an avid golfer and hunter and loved going to his farm in Talmo and cattle shows. Funeral services were held Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home with the Rev. Melvin Chandler officiating. Masonic graveside service and interment followed at Gwinnett Memorial Park in Lawrenceville with Masons serving as honorary escort. Flanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Buford The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Rosemary Baerga

Died Jan. 4, 2015 Rosemary Baerga, 60, of Braselton, died Sunday, Jan. 4, 2015. A private inurnment will take place at Memorial Park South Cemetery. Born Jan. 3, 1955, in Bronx, N.Y. , she was a daughter of Guillermina Baerga and the late Christopher Baerga. Survivors, in addition to her mother, include her brothers, Roberto and Chris; sisters, Naomi and Elizabeth; and nieces and nephews. Memorial Park South Funeral Home, Flowery Branch The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Helen Brock

Died Jan. 9, 2015 Funeral services were held Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, in Smith Memory Chapel for Helen Brock, who died Jan. 9, 2015. She was born June 24, 1928.. Burial followed in Barrow Memorial Gardens. Survivors include her children, Gail Gordon and Robert Harbin; sister; Jackie Cash; and a number of grandchildren. Smith Memory Chapel, Winder The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Warren C. Brooks

Died Jan. 9, 2015 Warren C. Brooks, 80 of Nicholson, died Friday, Jan. 9, 2015, at his residence. M Born in Center, he was a son of the late Alvy and Mattie Ruth Mathews Brooks. Mr. Brooks was a farmer and also retired from the University of Georgia. He attended River of Life Worship Center. Survivors include his wife, Carrine Hollifield Brooks; sons, Mike Brooks (Bronda) of Plainville, Keith Brooks of Macon and Todd Brooks (Rhonda) of Nicholson; brothers, Donald Brooks and Marion Brooks, both of

Nicholson; grandchildren, Autumn, Austin, Zaine, Lance, Whitley and TJ; and great-grandchildren, Hunter and Paislee. Funeral services were held Monday, Jan. 12, 2015, at River of Life Worship Center with the Rev. Bobby Ivester officiating. Interment followed in the Center United Methodist Church Cemetery. Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Betty Roebuck Clark

Died Jan. 6, 2015 Betty Roebuck Clark, 74, died Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015. A native of Buford, she was living in Sautee with her daughter. She is preceded in death by her husband, Dick Clark; parents, Clay and Louise Roebuck; and brothers, Harold Roebuck and Freddie Roebuck. Survivors include her daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie and John Phillips and Dawn Clark, all of Sautee, and Teresa and Jerry Roberts of Flowery Branch; sons and daughters-in-law, Danny and Cindy Clark and Jeff and Pam Clark, all of Winder; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; brother and sisters-in-law, Kenneth and Diane Roebuck and Christa Roebuck, all of Oakwood, and Paula Roebuck of Buford; and several nieces and nephews and cousins. Graveside services were held Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, at Zion Hill in Buford with the Rev. Danny Newburn officiating. Memorial Park Funeral Home, Gainesville The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Marilyn Sue Elrod

Died Jan. 10, 2015 Marilyn Sue Elrod, 70, died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015. Born May 4, 1944, she was a daughter of Leroy McElhannon and Flora Epps Potts. Survivors include her husband, the Rev. Charles F. Elrod ; daughters, Debra Sue (Gary) Vaughters, of Dawsonville, Terica ( Rick) Barrett of Winder and Michelle (Ken) Looney of Commerce; sisters, Frances Standridge of Hull, Vernelle Parson of Homer and Geraldine Potts of Hull; grandchildren, Audra Kathleen Vaughters and Bryson Standridge; step grandchildren, Tyler Barrett, Haley Scott, Leanne Looney and Kaitlin Looney; and great-grandchild, Branson Standridge. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015, at the Little Country Church with the Revs. Bo Whisanant, Swayne Cochran and Gary Thompson officiating. Burial followed in Jackson Memorial Park. Ivie Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Wendy Reagin Ham

Died Jan. 8 ,2015 Wendy Reagin Ham, 53, of Buford, died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, after an extended illness. A memorial service was held Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, at Hamilton Mill Christian Church with Pastor Bob Mahan officiating. The family request contributions be made to the American Cancer Society. Survivors include her husband, Tom Ham; parents, Ed and Joanne Reagin of Clearwater, Fla.; sisters, Stacey Belanger and husband Scott of McDonough and Jodi Soucy and husband Rich of Jefferson; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Born in Atlanta, she was a lifelong resident of the area. She had been employed by the DeKalb County Police Department and was a member of Hamilton Mill Chris-

tian Church. Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel, Dacula The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

James Floyd Hayes

Died Jan. 2, 2015 James Floyd Hayes, 70, of Clayton, died Friday, Jan. 2, 2015. A United States Navy veteran, he was a Golden Glove Boxer. He loved to fish, water ski and spend time with his family and friends. Hayes Survivors include his son, Matthew James Hayes and Dovie Styles of Lula; daughters, Della Sosebee and husband Doug of Gainesville, Tammy Wier of Gainesville and Brandy Fortner Elliott of Hoschton; brothers, Jewell Hayes and wife Ann of Statham, Bobby Hayes and wife Joan of Oakwood, Johnny Hayes of Gainesville and Jimmy Hayes and wife Robin of Gainesville; sister, the Rev. Betty Hambrick and husband Terry of Braselton; grandchildren, Holly, Dylan, Kyle, Chesley and Jesse; and great-grandson Landon. Funeral services were held Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, in the Lawson Funeral Home chapel. The Rev. Dewayne Hayes and the Rev. Betty Hambrick officiated. Interment followed in the Hoschton City Cemetery. Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

LaVern Jones

Died Jan. 7, 2015 Mrs. LaVern Jones, 73, of Winder, died Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015, at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center following an extended illness. A native of Hall County, she was a daughter of the late Richard and Sallie Mae Shelton McDougal. Mrs. Jones was a homemaker. Survivors include her husband, Austin Jones; children, Ricky and Cindy Jones of Bethlehem, Kim and Darrell Ingram of Carrollton, Judy and Jeff Roberts of Statham and Deborah and Robert Mixon of Winder; grandchildren, Mandi Jones, Darrell Ingram Jr., Jake Roberts, Josh Ingram, Nicole Lake, Chris Roberts, Austin Jones and Shannen Roberts; and six great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery. Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Jeffrey Bryan King

Died Jan. 5, 2015 Jeffrey Bryan King, 43, of Jefferson, died Monday, Jan. 5, 2015. Survivors include his mother and stepfather, Brenda and Lonnie Mahan of Jefferson; father and stepmother, Frank and Jean King of Buford; brothers and sister-in-law, Roderick King of Loganville, Eric Mahan of McDonough and Richard and Jennifer King of Hoschton; sister, Renae Glover of Cumming; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Born March 2, 1971, in Atlanta, he was a 1991 graduate of Shiloh High School and at-

tended DeKalb College. Services were held Friday, Jan. 9, 2015, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home with the Rev. Luis Ortiz officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospital in memory of Jeffrey Bryan King. Flanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Buford The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Brad Lee

Died Jan. 3, 2015 Arthur “Brad” J.R. Lee, 45, of Braselton, died Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015. Mr. Lee was a loving son and brother. His favorite past time was caring for flowers, dancing and animals. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed life. He was preceded in death by his father Arthur Lee. Survivors include his mother, Mattie Lou Lee of Braselton; brothers, Bobby Ray Lee, Horace Arthur Lee and Jimmy Ray Lee and wife Deborah, all of Braselton; sisters, Nancy Patricia Groves and husband Ronald of Pendergrass, Carol Ann Satterfield of Jefferson and Geraldine Lee Allen of Hoschton; and a host of other relatives. Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, in the Lawson Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Truman Humphries officiating. Interment followed in the New Liberty United Methodist Church Cemetery. Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Peter Mekosh

Died Jan. 8, 2015 Peter Mekosh, 96, of Hoschton, died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at home. Born in Centralia, Penn., he was a son of the late Michael and Anna Fago Mekosh. He was retired from Merck Pharmaceuticals, where he worked in maintenance operations. Mr. Mekosh was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and a member of St. Anne’s Ukrainian Catholic Church. His daughter, Joanna, lovingly cared for him for 11 years along with her husband, Ben, and their daughters, Lorinda and Rosanna Cruz. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Victoria Lach Mekosh; son, Gregory Mekosh; and daughter, Patricia Mekosh. Survivors include daughters, Joanna Cruz of of Hoschton, Gloria Lachman, of Sellersville, Penn., Victoria Rosenbaum, of Nicholson and Donna Allen of Middleburg, Fla.; son, Peter Mekosh Jr., of Jackson, N.J.; 10 grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. The funeral mass was held Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, at St. Anne’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Warrington, Penn. The burial followed in St. John Neumann Cemetery in Chalfont, Penn. Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Kelli Larette Nix

Died Jan. 7, 2015 Kelli Larette Nix, 44, of Copperhill, Tenn., formerly of Hall County, died Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015. A visitation was held Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, at Ward’s Funeral Home. Born in Hall County, she had moved to Tennessee two

years ago. She was a homemaker and graduated from Johnson High School. Survivors include her father, Bobby Scott of Copperhill, Tenn.; mother, Betty Brand of Lula; son, Nicholis Riley of Jefferson; daughters, Peryn Dispain of Lula and Olivia Riley of Jefferson; brother, Kevin Nix of Atlanta; grandparents, Inell Scott of Gainesville and Ernest and Jimmie Couch of Lula; aunt, Regina Scott of Gainesville; and uncle, Michael Couch of Cleveland. Ward’s Funeral Home, Gainesville, The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Richard O’Kelley

Died Jan. 8, 2015 Richard O’Kelley, 71, of Jefferson, died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015. Born in Cumming, he was a son of the late James “Jimmy” Edward O’Kelley and Nora Faye Metz O’Kelley. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church where he was as Sunday school teacher and an ordained deacon. He was a member of The Gideons International and American Legion Post 56. He served his country during Vietnam in the U.S. Army. He was the retired parts manager of Billy Cain Ford in Commerce. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Eugene O’Kelley, Hayden O’Kelley and Charles O’Kelley; and sister, Elva Mae Harris. Survivors include his wife, Evelyn Wilson O’Kelley; daughters, Charlotte Rachelle O’Kelley Gilman and her husband Greg of Commerce and Bess Marie O’Kelley Reinhardt and her husband Tre’ of Hendersonville, N.C.; grandchildren, Newton Gilman, Faith Gilman and Tyler Reinhardt; cat, Sallie; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, at Faith Baptist Church with Dr. Keith Cudd and the Rev. Bill Carpenter officiating. Burial followed in Evans Memory Gardens with Johnny Poole, Russell Wilson, Darwin O’Kelley, Ricky O’Kelley, Justin Roebuck and David Rush honored as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to the Gideon Memorial Bible Program, P.O. Box 755, Jefferson, GA 30549. Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Vickie Ann Moon

Died Jan. 5, 2015 Vickie Ann Moon, 60, of Winder, died Monday, Jan. 5, 2015. Survivors include her daughters, Tonya Harvey and husband Greg of Dacula and Kim Coats and husband Johnny of Winder; brother, Ray Allen of Loganville; sisters, Elaine Childs and husband Butch of Monroe, Mickie Adams of Loganville and Faye Brackin of Chatsworth; grandchildren, Blake, Tori, Bailey, Nick and Jesse; and great-grandson, Brayden. A memorial service was held Friday, Jan. 9, 2015, in the Lawson Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Cory Sexton officiating. Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Dr. May DeLacy Jessup Smith

Died Dec. 23, 2014 Dr. May DeLacy Jessup Smith, 68, died Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, from complications from Hodgkin’s lymphoma. An informal visitation was held Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, at Ward’s Funeral Home in Gainesville. Born in Macon, she was a daughter of the late Lauren Eugene Jessup of Eastman and Katharine Hosch Jessup of Gainesville. She grew up in Macon and Gainesville. She graduated from Gainesville High School, Brenau College and the University of Georgia, where she belonged to Tri Delta Sorority. The UGA chapter was begun by her grandmother, Elizabeth Kimbrough Hosch, a TriDelta regent. May acquired a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree and a doctorate. She taught at the high school and college level. Her later years were spent teaching reading at North Hall Middle School. She was also preeceded in death by her grandparents, Lester and Elizabeth Hosch of Gainesville, and W.L. and May DeLacy Jessup of Eastman. May Hall DeLacy Jessup was a founding member of the Adelphian Society of Wesleyan Conservatory, later Wesleyan College in Macon. The Adelphians were the first members of ADPi Sorority. Her paternal great grandfathers were Dr. Philip Jessup, founder of Mercer University and Middle Georgia College, and John Franklin DeLacy, descendant of Roger DeLacy, one of two trappers who founded Fort Augusta for General James Edward Oglethorpe. Her maternal great-grandparents were E.E. and Katharine Worley Kimbrough of Gainesville and William and Angeline Victoria Braselton Hosch of Hoschton and Braselton. The Hosch family made their former home on family land granted to Braselton ancestor, Revolutionary General Nathanael Greene, before moving to Gainesville. Survivors include her husband of 39 years, Dr. William Henry Smith, of Clermont; daughter, Kathryn DeLacy Smith Vinson of Knoxville, Tenn., and husband Christopher Vinson; granddaughters, Elizabeth Kathryn and Amelia DeLacy Vinson; son, Joseph Henry Smith of Knoxville; siblings, Katharine Jessup Evans of Marietta, Lauren Angeline Jessup of Gainesville and William Eugene Jessup of Duluth; and nephews are Charles, William and Jessup Evans of Athens and Marietta. May delighted in her two granddaughters, listening to them read and having tea parties. She was a gifted teacher, a tireless worker and a fearless thinker. May urged her students to immerse themselves in a work of literature, unlocking its secrets with irony and infectious humor. She spent many hours caring for grateful family members. Her family grieves our loss deeply. Memorial contributions may be made to Brenau University by way of the Brenau website https://forevergold. brenau.edu/form/. Ward’s Funeral Home, Gainesville The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

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The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

CHURCH NEWS

OBITUARIES Continued from 4A

James David Tanner

Died Jan. 1, 2015 James David Tanner, 70, of Gainesville, died Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015. Survivors include his daughters, Dianne Padilla and husband Roberto and Deborah Anderson and husband Jimmy, all of Dahlonega; brothers, Larry Tanner and wife Peggy of Florida, Terry Tanner and wife Connie of Lula and Randall Tanner of MurTannner rayville; sisters, Annie Sue Roberts and husband C.B. of Gainesville, Joyce Cleveland and husband Ed of Chestnut Mountain, Barbara Head of Braselton and Marie Beard of Chestnut Mountain; grandchildren, Davy and Ceta; and great-grandchildren, Hayden and Cali. Memorial services were held Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, in the Lawson Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Randall Reed officiating. Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

Erene Dell Venable Died Jan. 11, 2015

Erene Dell Venable, 87, of Jefferson, died Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, following an extended illness. A life-long resident of Jefferson, she was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church. Born March 14, 1927, she was a daughter of the late Okie Venable and Lottie (Wade) Venable. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, S/SGT Okie Venable Jr., and George Venable; and sister, Mildred Murphy; brother-in-law Charles Bowden; and sister-in-law Frances Venable. Survivors include her sister, Betty Jo Bowden of Athens; brother, Cecil Venable of Jefferson, brother-in-law, Radford Murphy of Gainesville, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She had a passion for genealogy research and the history of Jackson County. She was known to relatives as the “family historian.” She truly enjoyed sharing her findings and photos with relatives and friends. She will be greatly missed. A graveside service was held Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, in Woodbine Cemetery in Jefferson with Mr. Joel Murphy officiating. Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Jan. 15, 2015

New Community Church asks “What Will You Do In 2015?” Together We Make A Difference. Join us for 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. sss First Baptist Church of Jefferson will resume Wednesday night activities. From Jan. 14 through Feb. 4, the adults will share in a series on Celebrating Our Lives as the church interviews some of their senior adults and gains pearls of wisdom. Nursery through Middle School classes meet at 6:30 p.m. and high school students meet at 7:4 5p.m. Dr. Michael Helms, Senior Pastor, is also continuing a sermon series inspired from Robert Fulghum’s “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” each Sunday. The church food bank is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1-3 p.m. except for major holidays. The church is located at 246 Washington St., in Jefferson. sss

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. arborpointe.org. For more info on the content, visit basicseries.com. Find out more at www.arborpointe. org or listen to the worship messages from Pastor Brad Greene on iTunes. sss If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, this invitation is for you. Our faith community misses you and is incomplete without you. We want to welcome you home. Please join us at Catholics Returning Home on Monday nights at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Flowery Branch. Session starts Monday, Jan. 12, and will be held through March 30, every Monday, except Jan. 19 for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, from 7:30-9 p.m. in Room 1. Call Robin Johnson at 770-330-4105. sss

Hoschton United Methodist will host Sunday school at 10 a.m. on Jan. 18 with adults meeting in the fellowship hall with a church classroom for children. Jan. 18-25 is a Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Prime Timers Bingo and Lunch will be at 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 30 in the fellowship hall. “Come Home to Hoschton United Methodist Church where YOU have People.” sss

Farah Bohannon The Paper

Braselton campus Pastor Dan Vander Wal welcomed guests to the grand opening Sunday services of 12Stone Church. Space in the Madden building on Highwau 124 is being renovated for the church’s use. “Searching for a Better Life” is the new series now under way.

12Stone Church begins series toward better life By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

12Stone Church had its official grand opening on Sunday, and the Braselton interim location was packed full of excited people ready to worship close to home. The services were held at Duncan Creek Elementary, located at 4500 Highway 124, and will take place there until spring, when the permanent location is scheduled to open. Norwood Davis, Chief Financial Officer for the church that is headquartered in Lawrenceville, said they plan to renovate approximately 11,230 square feet of office space in the Madden building at 935 Highway 124. Suites 402, 403, 404, 405, 406 and 407 in Building 400 will be renovated. On Sunday, upon entering the elementary school, there were several greeters who directed guests to where

they needed to go, whether it be to the coffee station, restrooms or the sanctuary. What was so helpful that day were the greeters who stationed themselves at every entrance to the school to avoid any confusion. Everything was well marked and there was always someone to help within arms’ reach. Dan Vander Wal, Braselton’s campus pastor, introduced himself and chatted with several guests before the service started, and he stuck around afterward to meet even more people. “I have loved getting to meet a bunch of you before the service, and look forward to meeting a bunch more afterwards,” said Vander Wal as the 11 a.m. service began. Vander Wal’s enthusiasm was contagious as he shook hands and expressed his excitement with fellow churchgoers, and then stood up after the worship songs to kick off an exciting day.

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Also on Sunday, 12Stone started a series called “Searching for a Better Life” that will help its members learn what they can do from past decades to better their lives in the future. Braselton resident and “Hometown Hero” Jeremy Maddox has attended the Hamilton Mill location of 12Stone and says he is excited that a branch has opened close to home. “I love 12Stone and am really excited that we have a location here in Braselton now,” said Maddox. Despite the cold, dreary weather on Sunday, the attendance was excellent and will only continue to grow once the word continues to spread that there is a great new church in Braselton.

Cross Pointe Mill Creek is a church in the community for the community that meets at Mill Creek High School on Sundays at 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. with programming for all ages. Come experience a church where you and your family will feel at home and make a powerful difference in our community. You can find out more information at www.cpmillcreek.org or facebook.com/cpmillcreek The Rev. James Merritt is lead pastor. sss Arbor Pointe Church, located at 115 Towne Center Parkway in Hoschton, plans to offer “Basic” group beginning Thursday, Feb. 5. Join Pastor Brad Greene in this seven-week study group that uses short video clips to explore the nature of the church according to how the Bible describes it. This

A benefit gospel singing will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 31, at Triinity Baptist Church to benefit John Wayne Maddox, a devoted member of the field of gospel music who was hospitalized in September with stage 2 kidney failure and heart failure. He is in need of medical assistance that he can’t afford. He spends most of his ministry helping those in need, so during this time of need the community is coming together to help him The Mitchells along with Divine 3 Ministries will be singing at John’s home church, Trinity Baptist Church, which is located at 1434 Cronic Town Road in Auburn. For more information, contact Jerry Mitchell at 706-353-1977 or 706-202-7957. sss See more church happenings and special events on Page 4B.

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Song choice key for life events Funeral and wedding songs are often the subject of much discussion, particularly after the event. Sometimes, a funeral or wedding song can create a conversation that begins the second you get in the car and close the door. The conversation usually begins with “Can you believe that?” Once I read a book that talked about weddings and funerals. You might have a year to plan a wedding, while a funeral happens generally a few days after the departed departs. Recorded music has become more and more en vogue at funerals. There is some merit to that. You don’t have to worry about your grieving second cousin maintaining his or her composure or forgetting the words while singing near the guest of honor. In our neck of the woods, the singer is stationed a few feet from the casket. It can be a bit unnerving. A popular funeral song these days is Garth Brooks singing, “Go Rest High on That Mountain.” It’s a nice song and can easily be sung in church. I have been to funerals closed out by playing either Elvis or Frank Sinatra singing “My Way.” Some folks believe if the departed did it only his or her way, he or she may be singing “Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight,” if you get my drift. I went to a funeral where the song “Ol’ Red” by Blake Shelton was played. It is a song from the perspective of a prisoner who is doing time for killing a man who was running around with his wife. The prisoner becomes the handler for the warden’s dog, “Ol’ Red.” The song involves the prisoner eventually tricking the dog to run south while he runs north and escapes. By the way, Shelton is backed up on the song by Rachel Proctor, who is married to Gainesville native John Lancaster. Playing the song at the funeral resulted in a little

Harris Blackwood discussion in the car afterward. If this was the old ratea-record from “American Bandstand,” it would not have fared well. I hope I live long enough for Bruce Fields and Della Ruth Johnson to perform their celebrated rendition of “In The Garden.” As for wedding songs, it is a current subject at my house. We have a wedding coming up in May. The message from the bride is clear: No old fuddy-duddy songs. I think anything her mother and I like qualifies in that category. When he first began playing and singing for weddings, my friend, Mark Green, said a popular song was “There is Love,” made popular by Peter, Paul and Mary. Not anymore. Mark said when the song “Endless Love” came out in 1981, he sang it at a wedding before he saw the Brooke Shields movie. He said it was his first and only wedding performance of the song. I don’t know if that resulted in his subsequent move from Alabama to Georgia. If it did, I would send the couple a thank-you gift. Mark Green is the best thing to come out of Alabama since Interstate 20. I’m not sure what will be sung, played, hummed or whatever at the forthcoming nuptials, but I’m sure we will arrive at some happy compromise. Negotiations are moving well. We have eliminated “Ol’ Red,” “Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight” and anything by Peter, Paul and Mary. Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appear weekly.

Sometimes, a funeral or wedding song can create a conversation that begins the second you get in the car and close the door. 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

When a man finds his destiny Sometimes a man, despite his best efforts, doesn’t find his destiny. Try as he might, down through the earnest years of his life, he chases it and can even believe he has it, only to awaken one morning and discover he doesn’t. That what he has is an illusion, a mirage that he tried to turn into reality. Then, unexplainably, destiny finds him. It wasn’t anywhere he looked or even cared to peek yet it threw itself into his path, tackled him, and when he stopped wrestling against the mighty force, he saw he was staring right smack into the eye of what God had destined for him all along. Then he gave up the fight against it, embraced it, and found true contentment and happiness. He had arrived. For that is what destiny truly is — the soul’s satisfaction of knowing that you are where you are meant to be. That from the moment that life was breathed into your nostrils and the pulse of blood began, there was a purpose and plan. There was a destination that awaited.

Ronda Rich This I never thought much about until I watched as my husband’s destiny landed in his hands and saw the happiness that lighted from within the deepest reaches of his being. I laugh often as joy crinkles the corners of his sparkling eyes and, like a young boy who has caught his first bass, he can’t stop smiling. It is, without question, the most captivating point of my life: watching the man I love pull destiny into his arms, hug it to his chest tightly, declaring, “I am so blessed. I have found where I was meant to be.” It came as a surprise. Utterly and totally. At times, I still shake my head in wonderment and marvel at the amazement of God’s plan and how the oddest pieces of a puzzle will fit together without being forced. How in a million years you

would never think those pieces would match yet they melt together and you cannot decipher where one ends and the other begins. Sometimes, as I watch him dance through the house with a child’s excitement, I am speechless. There is nothing I can say. “I am home, baby! I am back in my beloved Georgia, the South that calls me home.” He radiates so I, both bemused and amused, will gently laugh and say, “You are beyond entertaining. I have never seen anyone love a place like you do.” He will quickly tell you and often remark over it himself how the South, though both storied and gloried, is the last place he ever expected to live. It is certainly not the place where he thought his destiny awaited. Oh, no. He fell under the misconceptions of many who don’t grow up here, fate not being as kind to them as it is to us. He opined then that we talk too slow, think too long and saunter too slowly through life. This being a common misperception from those who are “smarter” than us

because they choose to sit in stalled traffic for hours a week on Los Angeles freeways and pay 20 times the price for a handful of dirt than we. My husband comes from a long line of proud and noble Yankees who helped to settle America and then served this country and even presidents. His grandfather, Arthur, provided the key evidence that broke open the Lindberg baby kidnapping for the FBI and made a legend of J. Edgar Hoover. Then a few of them headed west where they contributed to television history. Then, just like that, destiny intervened. It threw that somber Yankee to the ground, the same soil that once absorbed the blood of the war between our people, and gave him a good reckoning. He found his calling in the unlikeliest of places. And, he came home. Ronda Rich is the best-selling author of several books. Sign up for her newsletter at www.rondarich.com. Her column appears weekly.

Hospitals, roads top challenges for Ga. The governor and the leadership of the General Assembly have some tricky challenges to deal with this year, with no guarantees that they will be able to handle them successfully. For Deal, his big problem will be how he copes with the potential failures of rural hospitals all over the state. Four rural hospitals have closed their doors over the past two years because they couldn’t find the money to meet their payrolls and stay in operation. During the legislative Biennial Institute in Athens last month, health care experts predicted that 15 to 19 more rural hospitals were in danger of shutting down due to severe financial problems. That prediction could actually be conservative. Scott Kroell, the CEO and administrator of Liberty Regional Medical Center in Hinesville, said the number of future closings could be even higher. “I think there is a potential for 30 hospitals to

Tom Crawford close, and not just small ones,” Kroell said in a recent interview. Officials of some of the state’s major hospital groups have urged the political leadership to approve the expansion of Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Georgia could receive more than $3 billion a year in federal payments for agreeing to expand Medicaid coverage under that arrangement, with much of the money going directly to financially distressed rural hospitals. Deal has consistently said no to that idea, however, and he also has surrendered his power to work out such an

arrangement. He signed a bill passed by Republican lawmakers last year that transfers the authority for expanding Medicaid from the governor’s office to the General Assembly. Even if Deal somehow changed his public stance and tried to get federal approval of a Medicaid expansion program that would mean more money for rural hospitals, the General Assembly’s majority would surely block that attempt. For the legislative leadership, their challenge will be coming to grips with the realization that taxes must be raised if the state is going to do anything about the woeful condition of its highways and bridges. A report issued last week by a legislative study committee confirmed that Georgia needs about $1.5 billion extra each year to do the needed maintenance work on its transportation facilities. More money would be needed on top of that to build new roads and highways.

“Georgia’s current investment in transportation infrastructure significantly constrains the state’s ability to meet its expected needs over the coming twenty years,” the report said. The report’s language indicates that the legislature may do these things: convert the state’s complicated tax on motor fuel to a simpler excise tax that could be indexed to increase with inflation and impose an additional 1-cent sales tax that would raise about $1.4 billion a year for road and transit projects. That amount of money can only be raised through taxation. A majority party that has spent years avowing that all tax increases are bad will have to figure out how to change directions on this without angering its supporters. That is going to be a tough road to pave. Tom Crawford is editor of The Georgia Report.

Standards should be Georgia-owned My goal as State School Superintendent is to improve outcomes and expand options for Georgia’s public K-12 students. That won’t happen without strong communication, meaningful collaboration, and child-focused, classroom-centered policies. We can only move education forward by working together. Partnerships between the Governor’s of-

Richard Woods fice, State Board of Education, General Assembly, educators, parents, students and other stakeholders are

crucial. Relationships need repairing – some relationships need starting – and I’m committed to the task. As we work collaboratively, we must keep the focus on students, directly addressing the challenges they face. On the campaign trail, I heard from many whose students struggled with integrated math. Together with the Governor’s office and State Board,

we’re set to allow schools to offer integrated or traditional math courses. For many students, academic success has been eroded by a weak foundation of the fundamentals and a one-size-fits-all approach. I applaud the Governor’s push to award math, science or foreign language credit for Computer Science courses,

See WOODS, 7A

LOCAL

The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

Michael Cronic elected as school board chairman for Jackson Co.

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

The Jackson County Board of Education has new leadership with the election of Michael Cronic as chairman and Celinda Wilson as vice chairman. Lynne Wheeler had been nominated to serve again as chairman and Tim Brooks was also re-nominated as vice chairman and Wheeler said it was new territory when additional nominations were made. She asked Superintendent Dr. April Howard to call for the votes. After the chairman’s vote, Wheeler looked to Cronic and said, “Let’s switch places and you can take over at this point.” Cronic exchanged seats with Wheeler and said, “This is new territory for me, too. And I want to say thank you for Mrs. Wheeler.” He thanked her for her service and leadership. “I love her to death” and appreciate her long history of service in and to the Jackson County School System. She received applause and a standing ovation. Students from Benton Elementary School led the Pledge to the American flag with Principal Pam Shields. There were a number of Benton Elementary families in the audience as the possibility of closing Benton as an elementary school is part of the discussion being held about future facilities planning. (See related story) In other business, the board approved its consent agenda which included: ■■ Approval of meeting dates for Fiscal Year 2015. Meetings are generally the second Monday of the month at 6 p.m. with a work session the prior Thursday at 6 p.m. See the approved schedule at ClickThePaper.com ■■ Approval of the 2015-2016 Program of Study and received copies of the advisement timeline as middle and high school students will be registering in February. Students planning to dual enroll must take the Compass Test for Lanier Tech or Athens or the ACT/SAT for the University of North Georgia (UNG). Director of CTAE and Community Partnerships Todd Schultz said UNG will be offering dual enrollment for students at the UMC Regional Campus at East Jackson Comprehensive High School. The campus will serve Jackson County, Jefferson, Banks County and Commerce students. Dr. Howard said this is the first baccalaureate course offering in Jackson County and it will be convenient for stu-

WOODS

Continued from 6A

dents who will have the opportunity to earn up to 18 credit hours before graduating from high school. UNG will offer English 1101 and English 1102, Math 1111 and Math 1113 as well as Psychology 1101 and Political Science 1101. In addition to the offerings of Lanier Tech, students will be able to earn more articulated credits through Athens Tech including Agriculture AAS, Environmental Science AAS, Health Science AAS and Biochemistry. Additional scores to be offered by Jackson County will include AP Computer Science, Business and Digital Technology, Allied Health and Medicine, Essentials of Biochemistry and numerous online opportunities which can be customized to a student’s needs. ■■ Authorized sale or disposal of items declared as surplus. ■■ Approved the resolution for the bank account information update associated with the School System’s Georgia Fund 1 investment account. Board approval was needed for the bank changes for activity related to the system’s general operating account and bond account. Both of these accounts were with Regions Bank and are now with Mountain Valley Community Bank, according to Director of Finance Annah Dodge. ■■ Approved a revision to the policy related to employee leaves and absences which allows an employee to donate up to 10 days of sick leave to a spouse and specifies that employees hired after Nov. 10, 2014 will not be eligible for compensation for unused annual leave upon separation of service. ■■ Approved Bowen & Watson to serve as construction manager at risk

on the West Jackson Primary School conversion project which will ready the school to become a middle school for the 2016-17 school year as WJPS combines with West Jackson Intermediate School to become the K-5 West Jackson Elementary School in the 2015-16 school year with Troy Johnson as principal. WJPS principal Linda Bell will be going to the central office. For the WJPS conversion, Director of Administrative Services Dennis Patrick reported that four of 12 companies requesting proposal packages returned bids including Carroll Daniel, WJIS project manager Bowen & Watson, Piedmont Construction and BM&K. Patrick said the selection committee, which included Dr. Keith Everson of Northeast Georgia RESA, Jamie Dixon, Doug Fields, Max Martin and Jamie Hitzges scored Bowen & Watson as the highest. Negotiations will now get under way with Bowen & Watson. Also at the work session, the board learned there was good financial news as Director Finance Dodge said, “Things are heading in the right direction.” She said expenditures are 2 percent under budget while revenues are 2 percent above budget halfway through the fiscal year. Dodge said, “That is a good trend to see” and “SPLOST collections are looking up” with the monthly collections for November at $524,926.80 and the monthly average for the past 12 months over $500,000. The system’s tax anticipation note for (TAN), taken out to carry the system over until ad valorem taxes begin coming in, has been paid back. The system made a final payment of $4,452,632.92 and a total of $7,085.70 in interest was paid. The total is slightly higher than borrowing required for Fiscal Year 2014 of $4,155,242.64 but considerably less than the $9.5 million and $9.7 million TANS of Fiscal Year 2009 and Fiscal Year 2010. Assistant Superintendent Jamie Hitzges told the school board at the work session that the financial uptick was good news as the state requirement for online testing is anticipated to cost the system $1.8 million over the next five years to keep pace with technology upgrades. The school board’s focus on upgrading its infrastructure was sound priority as the state is now requiring newer end user devices. Bus replacement cycles also need to be revisited.

cators, parents and other stakeholders have to say. Ultimately, our greatest constitutional responsibility is funding a quality education for every child. I applaud the Governor and General Assembly’s commitment to this, demonstrated by 2014’s sharp increase in education funding. I will work to ensure that as many dollars as possible flow into education – and that those funds directly support our students’ success. Georgians have a his-

tory of pulling together and finding the opportunities within our challenges. No opportunity is greater than the 1.7 million students and 100,000+ teachers in our classrooms. With a collaborative effort, real communication, and classroomcentered, child-focused policies, we can recognize their full potential. Richard Woods, a 22-year public school educator and former small business owner, is Georgia’s School Superintendent.

Jackson County Schools’ systemwide Teacher of the Year – Holly Canup

East Jackson Comprehensive High School TOTY Holly Canup, the Jackson County Schools’ TOTY, was introduced at Monday’s meeting of the Jackson County Board of Education by Principal Jamie Dixon, R, who said Canup was the first teacher he meet after being hired. The media specialist spotted him in the hallway and said, “We need to talk.” Dixon said he found Canup to be energetic and in touch with kids. A cancer survivor who had dealt with significant health issues, Canup has passion for education. Dixon acknowledges he threw her a curve when he asked her to use her technology specialist skills to devise a plan for intervention when students struggle, to move them ahead when they are ready to advance and to blend instruction. Without a true model, Canup came up with her own innovation to help students with credit recovery and to graduate early. “Our media center will be one of the most innovative places in our school system,” said Dixon. She and her husband have two children.

NEW YEAR

Continued from 2A building in the Jefferson Distribution Park will also be taken during 2015. Two other existing industries are also scheduled for expansions in 2015. All in all, I expect 2015 to be a very good year for economic development and new jobs in Jackson County and the City of Jefferson.” On Jefferson’s housing front, 80 new homes were built and occupied in 2014, and the city is looking for about the same number in 2015 with activity really picking up in the spring. One new subdivision has been annexed with inquiries coming from several developers. Plott says that com-

mercial activity should increase as the economy strengthens. “From the city standpoint, we are excited about the hiring of a new city manager who should be on board in late February or early March depending on their existing contracts. The city will establish goals and priorities in our annual planning meeting as soon as our new city manager is here. This will be an excellent opportunity for him to learn about and hear from each department about their needs and challenges,” said Plott. All in all, officials from the cities nestled in Jackson County are ready to take on the new year and see where the growth and exciting opportunities take them.

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those needs. Students and teachers are suffering from an overemphasis on test scores, a burden we must aggressively seek ways to reduce. I’m calling on the General Assembly to explore ways to do just that, and will request a one-year moratorium on the use of test scores in the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI). Every child deserves a great teacher, and we must make sure our measurements of teacher effectiveness are fair. Under the current tool, administrators are struggling with time demands and loads of paperwork. We have to find the balance between accountability and responsibility. We also need to share our students’ and teachers’ successes. In the near future, I’ll launch a public awareness campaign highlighting best practices in Georgia’s schools. I’m committed to hearing what students, edu-

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Required Minimum Distributions - What You Need To Know This paid advertisement written by Jeff Cutter, Investment Advice by Scott Moore.

Last week I had a woman, Christine, come into my office with a very specific, and very popular question for me. Christine explained that she will be 70 next July and knows that she will soon need to take her first Required Minimum Distribution (RMD). She asked me for some help; specifically, she wants to know how to calculate RMDs and when to take them. Okay Christine, let’s give it a shot. As the name suggests, a Required Minimum Distribution is a yearly distribution that must be taken from certain types of retirement accounts. The minimum amount required to be taken, generally, is based on both the December 31 account value from the year prior and the Uniform Life Expectancy Table, which can be found either on my website or on the IRS’s website. The RMD is calculated by dividing the year-end value by the

applicable life expectancy of the account owner. (If, however, an individual has a spouse who is 10 years younger than him or her, a different table is used.) Generally, folks must begin taking their RMDs by April 1 of the year after they reach age 70 1/2. Every year thereafter, an RMD must be taken by year-end, December 31. If Christine turns 70 in July 2015, she’ll turn age 70 1/2 in January 2016. So technically, Christine is not required to take her first RMD until April 1 of 2017. However, if Christine decides to wait until April 2017 to take her first RMD, she will need to take two RMDs in the same calendar year. This is because her second RMD would need to be taken by the end of 2017. Therefore, Christine should estimate her projected taxable income for 2017 because by taking two RMDs in one year, she may be pushed into a higher tax bracket, thereby resulting in an unfavorable

tax consequence. If that is the case, Christine may want to take her first RMD in 2016 and her second by the end of 2017. Another factor to consider with respect to RMDs is how to take them. An individual’s Required Minimum Distribution is calculated by using the year - end total of all of his or her IRAs, including SEP and SIMPLE IRAs. However, the entire distribution can be taken from any one or a combination of the IRA accounts. But beware, there are some potential traps to avoid. Spouses must calculate their own RMDs separately. Each spouse must take their RMD from their own IRA account(s). Also, should a person own an inherited IRA, as well as their own, then generally, RMDs must be taken from each. However, you can combine the RMDs from inherited accounts when they are each inherited from the same original IRA account owner. Generally, distributions from employer plans, such as 401(k)s, also must be

calculated on each plan and withdrawn separately from each one. Employer plans cannot be aggregated-with one exception 401(b) accounts can be aggregated using the same rules for IRAs as noted above. Their combined RMDs can be taken from any one or a combination of multiple 403(b) accounts. Under no circumstances can an RMD from one type of plan be satisfied with a distribution from a different type of plan. In other words, a 403(b) RMD cannot be taken from an IRA. Likewise, an IRA RMD cannot be taken from a 401(k), or any other type of plan other than an IRA. Generally, there are no Required Minimum Distributions for Roth IRAs. However, an inherited Roth IRA does have one. Such an RMD can be calculated by aggregating the year-end account value with other inherited Roth IRAs following the same inherited IRA rules as stated above. A point of caution on your RMD; there is a 50 percent

penalty on any amount that should be taken and is not taken. Furthermore, if the RMD is taken out of the wrong type of account, it is treated as though it was not taken at all. Look, I know this can be somewhat confusing. If you have questions calculating your RMDs or concerns about taking distributions from a retirement plan, I do suggest you seek guidance from someone who is an IRA specialist. 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

The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

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Sports

Mat-tacular: Dragons win Area Duals at Oconee Co., head to Macon for state duals BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

WATKINSVILLE – A move into Class AAA and specifically Area 8-AAA garnered the same results for the Jefferson Dragons’ wrestling team, another win. The Dragons won the Area 8-AAA Area Duals last Saturday, defeating host Oconee County High School in the finals 67-12 and Morgan County 62-17 in the semifinals. Jefferson competes in the state duals tomorrow and Saturday in Macon. With a win, it will be Dragons’ 14th-straight state duals championship. Their first in Class AAA. “Proud of the guys,” Jefferson head coach Doug Thurmond said. “Very, very proud of them, team effort…They all had to step up and do a real good job, so I was real proud of that.” Ben Kelly, Price Joiner and Tanner Thurmond all recorded victories in the final-round rout. As a team, the Dragons won nine of the 12 matches against the Warriors. Oconee County defeated Morgan County in the “true” second-place match to advance to Macon. Jefferson was the No. 1 seed to start the tournament and they beat the second and third-place finishers, which made

“We (don’t) know a whole lot about anybody,” Thurmond explained. “There’s a whole lot of unanswered questions that we got, so it’s going to be kind of nice to see who shows up and what we get.” After defeating East Jackson in the first round of the tournament, the Jackson County Panthers lost a hard-fought second-round match to the Warriors, 36-34. “In our lower weights, we wrestled fantastic,” Jackson County head coach Jason Powers said. “It was going better than I ever could have game-planned. We end up beating a state placer. We pin a state placer at 113 (pounds). We pinned a kid at 120 (pounds). I mean, we were rolling. “Until we hit 160 (pounds), then the wheels really fell off the bus. We gave up too many pins up top. I thought we wrestled extremely well, but when you end giving up five pins, Charles Phelps The Paper you can’t win a tough dual like that.” Jefferson defeated Oconee County to win the Area Duals last Saturday. After the loss, the Panthers were in the consolation bracket and got past Elbert County and faced Morgan the victory “nicer,” Thurmond said. County with a chance to setup a rematch with the Warriors. Now, the attention shifts to the state duals and with the But, Morgan County overpowered the Panthers 42-28 and admove into Class AAA, it will be a first look at new competition vanced to the second-place matchup. throughout the state for the Dragons. The Panthers finished in fourth place.

Soaring To Victory

Zimmer commits to West Georgia

Jefferson basketball sweeps in-county rival Jackson Co. on the road

For The Paper

Kelcie Zimmer (4) is headed to the University of West Georgia.

BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

Doug Chellew The Paper

Jefferson senior Kendrick Robinson puts a shot up against the Jackson County Panthers’ defense last Friday. BY COLIN HUBBARD

sports@clickthepaper.com

JEFFERSON – The Jefferson Dragons boys’ basketball team haven’t had the season they wanted too. Headed into last Friday night’s matchup against crosstown rival Jackson County, the Dragons hadn’t won a game in nearly a month. With just three wins on the season and a five-game losing streak, the Dragons looked to snap that streak against the struggling Panthers, who have recorded only two wins this season. After a game that saw Jefferson lead by as many as 12 points, the Panthers fought back to tie the game at 49-49, but

Doug Chellew The Paper

Jefferson’s Chris Nable attempts a shot last Friday.

the rally fell short as the Dragons held on for a 54-51 victory for their fourth win of the season. “We just don’t know how to play with a lead because we haven’t had many of them this year,” Jefferson head coach Bolling Dubose stated. “We have got to do a better job of keeping a lead and closing games out.” Jackson County got off to a fast start in the first quarter, building an early 10-2 lead, but when the quarter ended, the Dragons led 13-11. The Panthers came out extremely flat in the second quarter, managing only five points as a team. They racked up seven first-half turnovers and managed only 13 shot attempts as a team to give Jefferson an eight-point lead going into the half, 24-16. Jefferson guard Chris Nable led all scorers with eight points at the break. Jackson County’s Joel Ellis led the Panthers with seven points, respectively. Jackson County came out shooting to start the third quarter behind the hot hand of Ellis. The Panthers racked up 17 points in the third quarter to cut the lead to five headed into the fourth quarter, 38-33. Malique Wade sparked a fourth-quarter run for the Panthers by dropping nine points to tie the game up at 49-49 with two minutes to play. Jefferson point guard Kendrick Robinson, who started for injured teammate Roc Young, hit seven free throws in the fourth quarter, but none bigger than the last two with five seconds remaining to give the Dragons a three-point edge. After a timeout for the Panthers, Wade caught the inbounds pass and launched up a deep 3-pointer, which missed as time expired. “We started the game out in a 3-2 zone defense, but after we went down early we decided to play man-to-man the rest of the way and it worked well for us,” Dubose said. “We got in a big hurry in the fourth quarter when we didn’t need to and let Jackson County come back on us. Ultimately, it was big win for us tonight and I’m proud of their

See basketball, 2B

JEFFERSON – Jackson County senior Kelcie Zimmer verbally committed to play volleyball at the University of West Georgia, she announced last week. “It’s beyond exciting,” Zimmer described about making her destination known. “Knowing that something I have always dreamed of and worked for is finally becoming a reality is one of the best feelings. “I’m so happy to have accomplished this goal and to be able to set new goals is now so exciting.” She first talked to UWG head volleyball coach Trina Braden last September and made her first visit to the campus in early November. “I was one of four recruits there. We got to practice with the team, (tour the) campus and hang out with the players while we there,” she said about the visit. “That was probably the most nerve-wracking thing I have ever experienced. But, from there, I was in communication with coach Braden weekly. I still was looking at other schools and going on visits, but I knew UWG is where I wanted to go.” It was shortly after the visit and a few more talks with the coach when an offer was officially made and she “gladly” accepted, she said. She will be one of three setters, the other two are a junior and senior. Zimmer’s goal is to work harder than she ever has to get playing time in freshman campaign. “I want to strive to surpass records previous setters have created, which won’t come easy,” she described. “I don’t want to ever look back on this opportunity I have been given and have regrets that I didn’t push myself hard enough.” Hard work is something Zimmer learned through her time at Jackson County. As an 8th-grader, she played on the Lady Panthers’ junior varsity team and she played under four different head coaches all four seasons while on the varsity team. “I think in my time there on the volleyball team, I’ve learned how to lead,” Zimmer said. “We haven’t always had the best seasons and I’ve had a different coach every year, so I think it has taught me how to roll with whatever is thrown at you, and how to never give up on the people around you, because sometimes all it takes is someone encouraging you and believing in you to accomplish something nobody thought was possible.” Zimmer hopes the young players on the Lady Panthers’ squad learned by her example that it “takes hard work and dedication to accomplish your goals.” “They will be leaders in the upcoming seasons, so I hope they have learned to lead by example and not to give up on yourself or the team,” she said. Zimmer added her goals weren’t met by her own accord, but with the support and help of others, she was able to accomplish her feat of playing college volleyball. “I would not be where I am today without my parents,” Zimmer explained. “They have always supported me 100 percent and have put countless hours into helping me. “They have driven me all over and sat for hours while I practiced. Anything I could possibly need to be successful, they have provided for me. I also have great friends and family who always support me and encourage me to go after my goals,” she continued. “God has blessed me with more than I deserve and I couldn’t be more thankful.” During her senior year, Zimmer made first team All-Region for Region 8-AAA. The Lady Panthers finished fourth in Region 8-AAA and qualified for the Class AAA state playoffs. The University of West Georgia is located in Carrollton, Ga.

LOCAL soccer

local baseball

local sports

Soccer Totz registration open

Jackson Co. baseball hitting clinic

Sports action this weekend

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.

Jackson County baseball head coach Tommy Fountain host the Future Panther Winter Hitting clinic at the Jackson County Comprehensive High School baseball field and hitting facility. The cost is $25. The hitting clinic runs from Thursday, Jan. 22-24. For more information and/or questions, contact Coach Fountain at 770-530-8975 or tfountain@jackson.k12.ga.us.

Jefferson wrestling goes for its 14th-consecutive State Duals championship in Macon on Friday and Saturday. East Jackson, Jefferson and Mill Creek basketball are all at home on Friday night. Jackson County plays on Saturday night. The Mill Creek swim team competes against Norcross on Friday night and the Gwinnett 11 Dive Invitational takes place on Saturday. Jackson County competes on Saturday at Ruby Fulbright Nataroium.

sports

The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

BASKETBALL Continued from 1B

effort. Every region game for us now is like a playoff game, so that is how we will go about each game from here on out.” Robinson finished with a game-high 19 points, while Nable added 13 points and four steals. “Coach had a lot a faith in me to make my free throws,” Robinson said. “He told me to just take my time and don’t rush anything. “I was nervous in the last couple of minutes, but it’s my job to keep my teammates calm and not show anyone that I was nervous. I just made sure that I took care of the ball and we got the job done.” Nable added, “Shot selection was everything for us tonight. We did everything right at the end of the game. We eliminated turnovers and made our free throws and we pulled off a good win tonight. “I was praying that their last shot didn’t fall at the end of the game. I did my best to make sure that I get a hand on the ball so they wouldn’t get another shot at it and it worked out.” Jackson County head coach Chuck Butler said his squad gets “stuck in the same boat” and he emphasized that it comes down to “taking care of stuff early in the game.” “These close losses mentally affect you and we have had plenty of games like this on the season,” he explained. “It’s unfortunate that our season has gone on like this. I have to tell my players the same story over and over again. We just can’t seem to get over the hump and win ball games.”

The Lady Dragons were coming off of a 32-point victory over Elbert County headed into their rivalry game against the Lady Panthers. Jefferson allowed just 10 points on defense through three quarters of play en route to another 32-point drubbing. Jefferson’s Abbie Franklin led the way for the Dragons, dropping seven points, five rebounds and five steals. The Lady Dragons went 7-for-31 from the field in the first half, yet led by 16 going into halftime, 22-6. The Lady Dragons dominated the third quarter as they shot 57 percent from the field on their way to 17 third-quarter points. Hope Forrester led the way with six points. Forrester finished the game with a game-high 10 points. The Lady Panthers managed to score more points in the fourth quarter than they had in the previous three quarters combined. But, the Lady Dragons added 14 more of their own. Brianna Love led the Panthers’ scoring with seven points. Ashlyn Loudermilk did not score a single point from the field and finished with just two points for the game. “We didn’t shoot the ball very good tonight, but we played great defense,” Jefferson head coach Jason Gibson stated. “We struggled with shot selection tonight. We didn’t get a lot of good looks. We were 1-for-12 from three-point range in the first half, but we got a little better in the second half. “We did a good job of anticipating passes and closing out shots on defense, especially on the inside. We wanted to focus on Jackson County’s post players and make someone else have to shoot the ball and we did a good job of that,” he continued. “We are a lot better than we played tonight, but I’m proud of their effort. It’s always good to get a win against a rival team.”

Lady Dragons 53, Lady Panthers 21

Hawks’ wrestling takes 4th place at Area Duals BY KYLE FUNDERBURK

sports@clickthepaper.com

NORCROSS – Considering the youth on the team, Mill Creek wrestling coach Rodney Porter has a lot to be proud of and excited for going into next year. The Hawks began the Area Duals at Peachtree Ridge High School as the No. 5 seed and ended with a fourth-place finish, however they needed a top-two finish to qualify for the Class AAAAAA state wrestling meet. “Well, we came in as a five seed and took fourth,” Porter said. “Of course, we hoped to do a little bit better but that’s the way the cards fell today.” Mill Creek opened the meet by beating No. 4-seed North Gwinnett. Ben Gilbreath (106 pounds), Harrison Hoffman (132 pounds), Jared Preyer (138 pounds), Luke Walser (152 pounds), Brayson Hayes (182 pounds) and Hayden Walker (195 pounds) all picked

up pin-fall victories to lead the Hawks to a 39-34 win and a match with Collins Hill High School in quarterfinals. Things didn’t go as well for the Hawks against No. 1 seed as Martin Iduate (126 pounds) and Walker were the only ones to pick up wins for Mill Creek as they were sent to the consolation bracket with a 62-8 loss. The Hawks then found themselves against the No. 6-seed Norcross High School in the quarterfinals of the consolation bracket. The matchup went a lot more smoothly for Mill Creek as they won 60-21 with three wins by forfeit. The rest of them wins came from pins by Gilbreath, Iduate, Hayes, Walker, 120 lbs. Christian Braun (120 pounds), Chandler Miele (145 pounds) and Dorian Piekarz (160 pounds). “We didn’t know how that match was going to go,” Porter said. “They beat us earlier in the year. We’ve lost a couple kids since that happened so we didn’t

know what to expect. “We knew we were going to be the underdog in that match so I was proud to see our kids win.” Mill Creek’s day ended in a match with No. 3-seed Peachtree Ridge High School, where the winner would face the loser of Collins Hill and Mountain View for second place. Peachtree Ridge won the match 3427, even though the Hawks won seven of the 13 matches. Only two of Mill Creek’s wrestlers won by pinfall, Hayes and Walker. Three Peachtree Ridge wrestlers won by pinfall and they got another six points from a forfeit. “We got into the match against them and it turned out to be a winnable match for us,” Porter explained. “We just had a couple of guys get pinned and give up six points when they were in tight matches. That’s something that’s just going to beat us.”

Riley, Clark lead Hawks past Bears; girls outmuscled by Lady Bears

Doug Chellew The Paper

Jefferson’s Abbie Franklin scored seven points, snagged five rebounds and totaled five steals last Friday.

Supporting cast leads Eagles past Franklin Co. BY KYLE FUNDERBURK

sports@clickthepaper.com

COMMERCE – It’s easy to pick out who the brightest star for the East Jackson Eagles is, so much so that the supporting cast doesn’t get much attention. Against Franklin County, that supporting cast got plenty of attention as Devonte Tuggle and Sydney Henderson scored 14 and 10 points, respectively, to go with freshman Drue Drinnon’s 17 points as the Eagles tamed the Lions 51-44. “They played good team ball and that’s all you should try to do,” East Jackson head coach David Boyd said. However, the Eagles started the game slowly as Franklin County jumped out to a quick 6-0 lead behind Brooklon Wright’s game-opening shot and a pair of buckets from KeAndre’ Morrison. Andrew Bruce got the scoring started for the Eagles with a 3-pointer and from there, the Eagles began to take over the ball game. The Lions were able to keep a steady margin between them and the Eagles for the rest of the first quarter, holding a 13-5 lead at one point, but an and-one opportunity for Drinnon and a put-back shot by Henderson made the score 15-10 after the first quarter. “They started off hot. It just happens, but we picked up our defense, started rebounding and forced them to take bad shots,” Boyd said. Tuggle caught fire in the second quarter, scoring seven of his team’s 19 points. The Lions managed to hold onto their lead, but a couple of turnovers resulted in a game-tying shot by Henderson and a fast break by Drinnon to give the Eagles their first lead of the game. The Lions tied the game one more time, but Tuggle broke that tie immediately and gave the Eagles a lead they never relinquished. Drinnon drew a foul on a 3-pointer to end the first half at the free-throw line and made all three of his shots to give the Eagles a 29-24 lead at halftime. Both teams stepped up defensively in the third quarter as each held the other team below 10 points. That didn’t stop Drinnon from standing out, as the Eagles scored nine points in the quarter and he accounted for seven. On the other end, the Lions only put six on the board, giving the Eagles led 38-30 heading into the final quarter. Henderson began the final quarter with a shot under the basket to stretch the lead out to 10 points for the first time in the game. After that, the Lions tried to rally but never got closer than five points. Lady Lions 49, Lady Eagles 45

Charles Phelps The Paper

Left: Mill Creek’s Davion Clark puts up a shot against the Mountain View Bears during last Friday’s game. The Hawks won 70-57. Right: Mill Creek senior Madison Phillips attempts a free throw during last Friday’s game against the Mountain View Lady Bears. The Lady Hawks lost 43-38.

BY CHARLES PHELPS

The Hawks lost the lead one time throughout the game (7-6) in the early stages of the first quarter. HOSCHTON – After a close loss last “Those guys (Mountain View) can week to region-rival Norcross, Mill shoot,” Rogers said. “They make you Creek boys’ basketball head coach play a little differently defensively. We Chad Rogers said his team “grew up” didn’t play as good defensively.” during the game and they would “be The Hawks nearly let the victory slip fine” as they hit the stretch run of the away as a Bears’ rally cut the lead to one season. point early in the fourth quarter, 52-51, The Hawks rebounded with a 70- but the Hawks maintained their compo57 victory last Friday over region foe sure and continued to make shots. Mountain View High School. They outscored the Bears 18-6 to Miles Riley and Davion Clark led close out the game. the Hawks’ scoring with 14 points each. “Fourth quarter, we did what we Three other players scored in double needed to do when they cut it close,” digits as well. Rogers said. After falling behind 7-6 early in the game, the Hawks got dialed in, outscoring the Bears 18-10 to end the first quarter with a five-point lead (2217). Ryan Dobbs scored eight points in the first quarter including two 3-pointers. Scotty Chadwick scored five secondquarter points for Mill Creek. He finished the game with 11 points. But, two late 3-pointers saw Mountain View end the second quarter on a 10-0 run and Hawks’ lead was 31-30. The third quarCharles Phelps The Paper ter saw just as much Mill Creek’s Miles Riley at the free-throw line last Friday. scoring as the opencphelps@clickthepaper.com

ing quarter. Charles Botchway scored seven third-quarter points en route to an 11-point night. Shaheim Powell added five points and Clark four points. The Hawks outscored the Bears 21-19 to maintain a three-point edge headed into the final quarter (52-49). After seeing the lead shrink to one, Riley and Clark helped stave off the Bears’ rally, scoring eight and four points, respectively. Lady Bears 43, Lady Hawks 38 The Lady Hawks trailed the entire first half of the close game. They never led until the early stages of the third quarter when senior Meredith Schulte connected for two points and a free throw to give the squad a 20-19 lead. It was the Lady Hawks’ only lead of the game and it didn’t last long as the Lady Bears finished the quarter on a 12-5 run to seize control of the game at 31-25. The Lady Hawks rallied in the fourth quarter, closing the gap to three points at 33-30, but the Lady Bears widened the margin to seven points after a pair of free throws with 1:59 left in the game. The Lady Hawks managed to cut the deficit to four points (39-35), but not any closer before losing at the final margin. Meredith Schulte led all scorers with 14 points. “Really throughout the game, we struggled to score,” Mill Creek head coach Ashley Phillips said. “Their defense was very aggressive and very good and it was hard for us to get the shots we wanted to get consistently. “The final score shows that. We were at 38. Not enough to beat a good team.”

A terrible second quarter put the East Jackson Lady Eagles of East Jackson in a hole they couldn’t climb out of. After several lead changes and back-and-forth momentum shifts, the Lady Eagles trailed by five points after the first quarter. Then, they watched the Lady Lions extend the lead to 24-9 behind an 11-1 run. The Lady Eagles with a 9-3 run responded with a run of their own to cut the deficit to 27-18 at halftime. “We knew we had to be strong with the ball and rebounding,” East Jackson head coach Matthew Gibbs said. “The latter we didn’t do great, but we got better.” The rest of the game looked a lot more like the first quarter just without the lead changes. The Lady Eagles kept the Lady Lions at bay and cut the margin to just one point on several occasions. Every time East Jackson got close, the Lady Lions made shots to extend their lead back to a comfortable margin. The games closing minutes were full of those situations. East Jackson’s Niki Carver made a shot to put the score a 40-39, but Franklin County extended the lead back to five points. Carver and Faith Grooms cut the margin to just three points on two occasions, but the Lady Eagles were unable to capitalize on other opportunities. Down 47-43 with under a minute left, Libbi Lance made shot to keep East Jackson within one basket of tying or winning, but Franklin County’s Manazia Merritt scored on a layup to seal the game. “I can’t say enough about my girls. They fight and fight and fight,” Gibbs said. “That’s a perennial championship program, for us to hang in there and keep battling, making big buckets and big stops makes me super proud.” Lance and Carver both led the Lady Eagles with 10 points each. Treasure Wright was behind them with six points.

They started off hot. It just happens, but we picked up our defense, started rebounding and forced them to take bad shots. David Boyd East Jackson boys’ basketball coach

CMYK Thursday, January 15, 2015

features

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS Little Women. Mill Creek High School Theatre’s Advanced Theatre Workshop presents Little Women, a play written by Matt Buchanan based on the cherished novel by Louisa May Alcott, at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan.16, and Saturday, Jan. 17, in the theater at Mill Creek High School. Advance purchase tickets at $5 are available online at www. millcreektheatre.org. Tickets will be available at the door for $7. For additional information or visuals, contact Brenda Jameson at bjam@me.com. Visit www.millcreekhs.com/ Mill Creek High School is located at 4400 Braselton Highway in Hoschton. Call 678714-5850. Chamber of Commerce annual awards banquet. Boots and Bling will be the theme of the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce’s awards banquet set for Thursday, Jan. 22. The black tie optional premier chamber event will host Jackson County’s finest and celebrate the accomplishments of 2014 and set the standards for a successful year to come. The banquet will be held from 6-9 p.m. at the Jefferson Civic Center. Awards to be presented at the banquet will include Ambassador of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and the William H. Booth Award. Platinum sponsor for the evening is Jackson Electric Membership Corporation with Georgia Power and Precision Planning as gold sponsors. For tickets, contact the Chamber office at 706-387- 0300 or visit www.jacksoncountyga.com United Way annual meeting and awards banquet. The Board of Directors of the United Way of Northeast Georgia will host its annual meeting and awards banquet on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the Athens Country Club. The reception with cash bar begins at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6. Tickets are $30 and available with RSVP by Jan. 19 to 706-543-5254 or marketing@ unitedwaynega.org. Live United: Support the United Way. See more at www.unitedwaynega.org WJIS Shadow Shuffle 5K. The West Jackson Intermediate School Shadow Shuffle 5K will be held on Saturday, Jan 31. The funds raised thru this event will assist in the purchase of instructional materials for WJIS students and teachers. Sponsors are currently being sought and participants can also begin

registering for the 5K. Sponsorships range from $25 and sponsors can send their financial support to WJIS ATTN: Shadow Shuffle , 391 East Jefferson St., Hoschton, GA 30548. Signup online at www.runnersfit.com/shadowshuffle5k.html Chocolate Walk. Downtown businesses will host a delectably unique opportunity for patrons and their valentines by hosting its inaugural “Chocolate Walk” on Thursday, Feb. 5. Braselton’s Downtown Office will host the fun promotion. Patrons are asked to stop by its office between 4-6 p.m. for a bag and map. Then stroll to the quaint nearby shops for discounts, chocolate, coupons and more chocolate You will be treated while you shop. Reservations are being taken at www. DowntownBraseltonChocolateWalk2015. eventbrite.com or for additional information, call 706-684-0369. HeART for Children, Heart for Chocolate Gala. Piedmont CASA is hosting its fundraiser event on Feb. 7 at the Braselton-Stover House. Sponsorships are available and tickets are $55. Enjoy a buffet dinner by Cornbread & Caviar, chocolate creations by local bakers, dance music by Line 6, a silent and live auction as well as a showcase of children’s art. Call Annette Bates at 706-3876375 or buy tickets at www.PiedmontCasa. org. See more on supporters of the event on Page 2A. Winter WineFest. Winter Winefest at the Crawford W. Long Museum will be Saturday, Feb. 24. The fundraiser is sponsored by the Jefferson Downtown Development Authority. Tickets are $25 per person or $40 per couple. For ticket information, call 706-3675714. Reading with Ringling Brosthers. The Jefferson Library is participating in Reading with Ringling Brothers! Children ages 2-12 can earn one free ticket to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for reading any five books of their choice. Circus dates are Feb. 11-16 at Philips Arena and Feb. 19-March 1 at Gwinnett Center. Pick up a Reward Card at the Service Desk and start reading! Visit the program website at www.readingwithringling. com for more information. You can also learn more about the library and its offerings by visiting www.jefferson.prlib.org/

Promotional cards about the upcoming show, for which deadline for entry is Jan. 17, features artwork by members of the Hoschton Heritage Arts Council (HHAC) H’Artist Open Studio group which shares creative time together on Mondays in the fellowship hall of Hoschton United Methodist Church.

Sell Mill will be venue for Jan. 24-25 art show

“Not Your Run of the Mill” art show, presented by the Hoschton Heritage Arts Council (HHAC) H’Artist Open Studio group is set for Jan. 24-25 at Sell Mill Park in Hoschton. All artists are encouraged to participate in the juried art exhibition and show which has already attractive artists from North Carolina. Art show-goers will be able to enjoy hands-on and interactive experiences in addition to viewing and possibly purchasing some artwork. Cardstock and pens and pencils will be on hand for visitors to try their hand artist ventures. Budda boards will be available for the curious to sketch and then clear the slate for others to express themselves. And why not try zentangle – come and find out more. There will also be hot beverages available to be enjoyed while “milling around” the artwork. “This will be an opportunity for people to visit the mill and come inside if they have never seen this piece of history,” said organizer Nancy Rhodes. The idea to utilize the mill which is lo-

cated at Sell Mill Park, a Jackson County Parks & Rec operated facility on JacksonTrail Road, is credited to Rhodes and the “Not Your Run of the Mill” art show name was Susan Gwaltney’s idea. To learn more, you can join in on Monday open art sessions in the fellowship hall of Hoschton Methodist Church which generally get under way around 10 a.m. and continue last long as 4 p.m. “You will find friends and fellowship that will inspire your talents,” said Carol Tanner, who was working on an architectural piece at a recent open studio. Call Rhodes at 404-444-0072 for more about entering your artwork in the show – but hurry as the deadline is Jan. 17. Categories are landscape/still life, pottery/3D. mixed media, jewelry, photography, portrait/figure and wildlife. Best of Show, sponsored by Higher Grounds Coffee House, will pay out a $250 cash prize. The People’s Choice award, sponsored by Adornare Salon, is $150. First place in seven categories will pay $100 with second, third and honorable mention receiving ribbons.

Dancing with the Stars – Jackson County Style! nears The Jackson County Arts Council is excited to announce the judges for 2015 Dancing with the Stars – Jackson County Style! Linda Foster, Andy Garrison and Ashley Ware will decide who wins the prestigious Mirror Ball Trophy this year. They will base their decision on creativity, choreography, technique and overall performance. Linda Foster, executive director of Jackson County Family Connection, is a former dancer and a veteran of the 2014 Dancing with the Stars judging team. Andy Garrison, president of Garrison Consulting Company, is also president of the Jefferson Community Theater. He danced last

year with the lovely Emily Wilbanks, who is performing again this year. Ashley Ware, along with her partner Lou Solis, won the Mirror Ball Trophy last year. Ware is the dance and drama teacher at East Jackson Comprehensive high School and an instructor at the Broadway Arts Center. While these three talented and qualified individuals will award the Judges’ Choice Award, voters will decide which team will win the People’s Choice Star Trophy. All you have to do is go to www. jacksoncountygaarts.com and click on Dancing with the Stars. Then choose your favorite dance team and enter the amount you

wish to donate. Remember, one vote equals one vote. Currently, the dance team of Brenda Martin and her pro partner, Kenny Caldwell, are ahead in the People’s Choice race. They are dancing to support St. Paul First Baptist Church in Jefferson. Jackson County Arts Council will use their half of the donations to fund the free, middle/high school student art show, Celebrate the Arts. For information and pictures of all of the dance teams and the non-profit organizations they are supporting, go to our Facebook page, Dancing with the Stars – Jackson County Style! (facebook. com/jcacdance)

Judges announced for competition but you can cast your vote for People’s Choice

Linda Foster

Andy Garrison

Ashley Ware

Jefferson Community Theatre set for ‘Biloxi Blues’ By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

Want to know what it was really like to be in the midst of boot camp training during World War II in Biloxi, Mississippi? That can easily be discovered Jan. 15-18 during the Jefferson Community Theatre production of “Biloxi Blues,” a play re-enacting the life of a group of new military recruits. The show will be presented inJef-

ferson High School’s William Duncan Martin Performing Arts Center. Tickets are still available, and can be purchased by visiting www. jeffersoncommunitytheatre.com/ tickets.html or by calling 706-3675714. Tickets can also be purchased the day of the show at the box office. Tickets are $5 on Thursday and Sunday and are $10 on Friday and Saturday, with a discount for seniors and children under 18 at $7. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. for the Sunday matinee. The play portrays the conflict of Sgt.Merwin J. Toomey, played by William Martin, and Arnold Epstein, portrayed by Alex Dye, one of many privates enlisted in the military stationed in Biloxi. The story is seen through the eyes of Eugene Jerome, one of the soldiers. Jerome will be played by John Aquino. The show is directed by Keith Johnson with the help of Mike

Aquino and produced by Diana Norton-Bagwell. Sherry Aquino has taken on the role of costumer. Due to some mature language and content, this program may not be suitable for young children. The cast is excited for showtime and ready to portray what life was like as a young military recruit during the Second World War. The full cast includes: Roy Selridge – Brian Willis Joseph Wykowski – Dylan Gea-

rin Don Carney – Jake Rosenberger Eugene Morris Jerome – John Aquino Arnold Epstein – Alex Dye Sgt. Merwin J. Toomey – William Martin James Hennesey – Ethan Strong Rowena – Kathy Wortham Daisy Hannigan – Olivia Smith For more information, visit www.jeffersoncommunitytheatre. com or call 706-367-5714.

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Dress rehearsal for “Biloxi Bliues” finds the cast preparing for the Jan. 15-18 performance. Eugene Morris Jerome, portrayed by John Aquino, returns to the barracks from weekend leave; at R, a nervous and sensitive Jerome, who writes down his thoughts in a book which his buddies discover, gets a little better acquainted with Rowena, portrayed by Kathy Wortham.

features

The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

Crossroads Church set to ‘bust hell wide open’ By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

Debbie Purvis The Paper

Shovels were busy Sunday to move irt during the first groundbreaking ceremony on THE Church of Hoschton’s property on Sam Freeman Road where a pavilion is being built. With shovels: Karla Sexton, Larry Busby, Patty Terry, Dan Terry, Dutch Holland, Sue Maddox, Wayne Englett, Gail Nealy and the Rev. E Cory Sexton.

Plans for ‘promised land’ under way with pavilion groundbreaking, prayers THE Church of Hoschton is pleased to announce our very first groundbreaking! We will begin construction in January on a pavilion which may be used in special services such as Sunrise Services or other warm weather activities as well as certain community outreach events which we have planned for 2015. We are convinced that this will be the first of many ground breaking ceremonies which will be held at 380 Sam Freeman Road, our future home. THE Church of Hoschton currently meets at 99 E. Jefferson St., and has enjoyed tremendous growth and prosperity in a short three years of existence. We have also enjoyed constant change, as we started in a borrowed room at the previous Lawson Funeral Home location, thanks to the good graces of James and Carla Lawson, very shortly we outgrew that facility and moved to our storefront

Cory Sexton

The Pastor’s Pen

icant importance for some of our folks. As we have allowed the Lord to work in our hearts and lives, and to bring about healing we have been blessed with growth, both spiritually and numerically and we have begun to see the Lords plan for our assembly coming to fruition. In December of 2013, we had the opportunity to purchase 29.65 acres of “Promise land” and we have worked diligently to develop plans for the use of the property and for the con-

nity first and then further as we are able. It is our desire to see the completion of this first step before Easter and with that completion in mind we have planned a number of events for this coming year which will present our community with multiple opportunities to worship and enjoy our facility. We hope to see you soon. Come visit the church and worship with us, or if you have a church home just stay tuned and come see us at one of our special events! God Bless you , Rev C The Rev. Cory Sexton is pastor of the Church of Hoschton, which meets at 99 E. Jefferson St., in Hoschton. Dean of Gwinnett Hall Baptist College, he also has Cory Sexton Ministries, a Christian growth and leadership ministry. Contact him at 678234-9408 or revcsexton@ gmail.com

Rod Zwemke, pastor of Jefferson’s Crossroads Church, is ready to “Bust Hell Wide Open” with the church’s ministry and giving emphasis. What this means is that the church has successfully raised $75,000 of $150,000 in funds to go directly toward the construction of the Phase One facility, which is located at 828 Highway 124. Zwemke said the money has come directly from the church members and their generosity during the time of offering. Reaching the halfway mark is huge, and is a big step to finishing something that will not only benefit Crossroads Church members, but residents of Jackson County as well. The goal and prayer for 2015 is that the remainder of funds be raised so that construction can officially start later this year. Zwemke says that as they pray and give, the end result is certainly possible. Crossroads Church launched just eight years ago from scratch, and has moved their meeting space from the Jefferson Recreation Center to the Jefferson Civic Center. Zwemke’s goal of making a significant impact on Jackson County certainly came to life when the church continued to grow, requiring a larger space to accommodate everything. Land was purchased more than a year

ago and has already been paid off, and church members as well as employees have already created a plan of action for what features they want the new facility to have. “The concept of this new facility is to not only serve as a place of worship, but as a place for people of all ages to gather,” said Zwemke. “There will be a café, plentiful outdoor seating, a fire pit and much more. I want people to enjoy each other’s company as well as God’s beautiful creation. It really is a beautiful location.” Zwemke said the house on the property is now being utilized as office space and a student meeting place. “I am also very excited for the programs we will have space for once the facility is complete,” said Zwemke. “We will have much more space for our Celebrate Recovery meetings. I also want to offer an after-school program complete with tutoring, mentoring and the like. It will serve as a safe place for kids to hang out if they need a place to go after school. It keeps them out of trouble and allows them to hang out with friends.” There will also be a large amphitheater for outdoor movies, concerts and much more. All in all, Crossroads Church aims to serve as a place to worship as well as a place to gather with others and enjoy God’s creation. For more information, call 706387-0404 or visit www.crossroadsjc.com.

The new facility for Crossroads Church is to not only serve as a place of worship, but as a place for people of all ages to gather with a cafe, plenty of outdoor seating and space for students to hang out after school.

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678-343-2543 Debbie Purvis The Paper

Church members and gues of THE Church of Hoschtonbowed their heads in prayer during the groundbreaking ceremony on the church;s property on Sam Freeman Road where future plans call for ministering to the community. location where blessed by another friend and fellow believer Lendgrin Maddox. We were quickly running out of room in the storefront when the Lord interceded on our behalf again and allowed us to move to our current facility, which is the previous Hoschton First Baptist Building and in the past has carried some signif-

tinual growth of our ministry in this community. People have wondered why we purchased so much land. Some have questioned the validity of any church needing such acreage, but we sincerely believe that we are building for the community and we envision being the center of the community as we believe that God has commissioned us to minister to this commu-

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SCHOOLS

The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

Jackson County Schools honor Teachers of the Year The Jackson County Board of Education had special recognition for Teachers of the Year from each of the system’s schools and also honored East Jackson Comprehensive High School media specialist Holly Canup as the systemwide Teacher of the Year. School Superintendent Dr. April Howard said this meeting is one of the most exciting

of the year as teachers are being honored by the peers. Director of Human Resources and Student Support Service Jason Wester invited each school principal to present their school’s Teacher of the Year. Each received a framed recognition of the honor. Benton Elementary students began the meeting by leading the pledge to the flag.

Maysville Elementary School Teacher of the Year - Vicki Allen

Benton Elementary School Teacher of the Year - Judith Gault Judith Gault, TOTY at Benton Elementary, was introduced by Principal Pam Shields, R, who said Gault was her first hire at Benton. A champion to the students and staff, Shields said Gault is loved and respected and

she is looked to as a mentor by Shields and others. “Hey Jude” to the tune of the Beetles song was written by Gault. “In 42 years, look at all the lives you have changed… you never let us down,” Shields read.

Vicki Allen, Maysville Elementary TOTY, was introduced by Principal John Canupp, R, who said Allen is a Jackson County native who graduated from Jackson County High. She attended North Georgia College & State University and earned a masters in reading education with an ESOL endorsement from the University of Georgia where she published “Teachers as Readers.” All of her 15

West Jackson Intermediate School Teacher of the Year - Lynne Romo

years of teaching have been at Maysville Elementary where she has taught EIP, K-5, first and kindergarten and she is currently teaching K-2 math. Described as dynamic, Canupp said you are “wowed” in her classroom. “She is a game-changer,” he said. Admired by peers and students, Allen excels in smoothly running her classroom with reading and technology. “It’s amazing,” Canupp said.

West Jackson Intermediate School’s TOTY Lynne Romo was introduced by Principal Troy Johnson, R, who provides EIP support for grades 3, 4 and 5. One student said, “She makes me love school eve when I could to speak a word of English” and another said, “She is my safe place.” In her 10th year as an educator, She is always smiling and accentuating the positives. She sees challenges as opportunities. She began as a long-term sub at Jackson County Elementary School at the behest of

Lynne Wheeler and found she had a love for teaching her children which could translate to other students. She earned a masters degree at Piedmont College and also brings her perspective from her travel experiences to her students. Johnson said she nurtures self confidence and serves as a resource for all as a speaker of Spanish. She often arrives early and stays late to assist with translation. She is concerned about what is best for students. She and husband Luis have two children.

JAX EMC scholarships deadline approaches

North Jackson Elementary School Teacher of the Year – Melanie McMurray East Jackson Elementary School Teacher of the Year – Sandi Flint East Jackson Elementary TOTY Sandi Flint was presented by Principal Jennifer Halley, R, who noted Flint is in her 28th year as a teacher with two decades as a PE teacher. To help a coworker, she gave up a PE position and began working in special ed inclusion. She has been named Teacher of the Year four times including twice at Jefferson City Schools.

“She is our right arms on anything to do with special needs,” said Halley, who noted that Flint has been at East Jackson for three years. While she earned a specialist degree in leadership and supervision, she did not want to leave the classroom. She and husband, David, also a special ed teacher, have four children.

Gum Springs Elementary School Teacher of the Year – Crisy Holder Gum Springs Elementary School TOTY Crisy Holder was introduced by Principal Alisa Hanley, L, who said Holder’s roots are deep in Jackson County. The Jackson County High grad went to Brenau and earned her specialist degree at Piedmont College. A first grade teacher, Holder is on the curriculum team and leadership team. All of her 20 years in the classroom have been in Jackson County. She wants her students to be selfdirected, self-motivated lifelong learners. Hanley said it is amazing what Holder can do to teach and reach them in 180 days. “She makes huge, powerful connections to students” and takes great pride in knowing she played a role when they walk across the podium at graduation. She sets high expectations for her students and uses data daily and helps students to chart their own progress and set their own goals. “Her

classroom runs like a welloiled machine,” said Hanley.

Jackson Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) is currently accepting applications for the Walter Harrison Scholarship, a program sponsored by Georgia’s 41 electric cooperatives. The scholarship fund will provide $1,000 scholarships to local students who plan to pursue a post-secondary education in Georgia. The $1,000 Walter Harrison Scholarship can be applied to academic expenses at any accredited two- or four-year university, college or vocational-technical institute in Georgia. Full- or part-time students

who apply for the scholarship must be accepted or enrolled in an accredited undergraduate degree program, a customer of Jackson EMC or the son or daughter of a customer and a resident of the home served by Jackson EMC. Students interested in applying should contact their high-school guidance/ counselor’s office or visit www. jacksonemc.com/scholarships for an online application and complete details. Completed application packets must be received at Jackson EMC by 5 p.m. on Jan. 28.

Melanie McMurray, North Jackson Elementary’s TOTY, was introduced by Principal Resa Brooksher, L, who noted the Challenge teacher earned her specialist degree at Piedmont College. She began teaching EIP halftime at EJES in 2006 and has spent nine years teaching fifth grade, one in fourth grade, three teaching EIP and nine years in gifted education. Enrichment learning is what McMurray provides with students being challenged in everything they do, however, they feel safe to make mistakes as part of the learning process, said Brooksher. She and husband Lance have three daughters. Her students says she is a good teacher – “the best teacher in the world” because she is fun and engaging. Students say she allows them to decide what they want to explore and make their own projects. One said, “If you tell her you can’t, she gives you a can and tells you, yes, you can.” Another said, “We don’t do normal things” while another said “We stay engaged.”

See more Teachers of the Year honorees from the Jackson County School System on Page 7B

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The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

ENTERTAINMENT

As time runs out, baby decision damages marriage Dear Carolyn: When my husband and I first started dating seven years ago, he was upfront he didn’t want any more kids. He is 47 and has a 20-yearold daughter. I’m 42, don’t have any children and was previously married to a guy I should never have married. From my past experiences, I knew being in a good relationship was the top priority and bringing a child into a bad relationship could be a disaster. While we were still dating, he would tell me out of the blue he thought he’d like kids after all, but we needed to wait until we had a house of our own, he was more financially stable, his daughter was out of high school, etc. I had started feeling as if I really did want a child, but never mentioned it because it had to be a mutual thing we both wanted. We have now been mar-

Carolyn Hax ried for two years and bought a house a year ago. He mentioned one day this spring he decided he would like to try for a baby. He had done research because of my age, etc. I told him he needed to be totally sure and this wasn’t something he should do just because I wanted it. He assured me that wasn’t the case. We agreed I needed to get a little healthier and would talk to my doctor when I went for my yearly appointment. Over that time I began to eat healthier, started to exercise and have lost 20 pounds. The day of my appoint-

ment in September, he had the deer-in-the-headlights look of panic. I was shocked and disappointed. We had some tearful conversations (my tears) and he felt like a jerk (his words). Later, he told me he just got cold feet and he really did want to have a kid with me. So I’ve been off the pill since September, he’s been depressed and blah for about a month. Well guess what ... he doesn’t know if he wants a baby. If he had never said another word about it after he first told me he didn’t want kids, I’d know there would be nothing to discuss. Now I’m just getting jerked around. How do I overcome the sadness and disappointment I feel on so many levels? — I Want A Baby Jerked around indeed, I’m sorry you’re in this spot. It certainly doesn’t seem in-

tentional on your husband’s part. But even with the best of intentions, uncertainty like his can make it so difficult for you to know what to feel, why and when. If coping means traveling a path, then each “maybe” is a fallen tree across it. The way to make peace with this is to tend to each obstacle in succession. First there’s the grief at not having a child. Just because you once saw your future without one doesn’t mean it’ll be easy to envision that again. You have changed and your new vision will have to as well. I expect you also won’t be able to use the same “being in a good relationship was the top priority” rationale as you did before, at least not wholesale and not right away. Your marriage will need some repairs before it can carry that weight again. That’s why I suggest fac-

WORKING IT OUT

ing the second obstacle, your disappointment in your husband, with a skilled marriage counselor — unless, that is, you believe you can bring both raw honesty and compassion to your discussions without a professional guide. However you approach it, it’s important for you to air your dismay at the path he took to “no,” and ask for his help in overcoming it, lest it harden into resentment. There’s a final obstacle I’m not sure you even see, and that may be the key to acceptance on the two other fronts. That obstacle is, and always has been, you. Take a careful look at the path your letter describes. You accepted his initial nokids stance; you accepted while still dating his “but we needed to wait” conditions (house, money, daughter’s graduation!?); last spring, years past 40, you chose to wait till your yearly appoint-

ment instead of making a special one, stat. Do you see the pattern? A woman already at or near the end of her fertility readily agrees to wait, wait, wait. You couldn’t force fatherhood on him, I agree, but you veered so far the other way, so deep into passivity. Either you didn’t read up on fertility (itself part of the pattern?), opted for denial, or deep down you’re as ambivalent as he is about a baby. Certainly there’s nothing wrong with having doubts or not having children. And people who want things badly do tend to find ways to get them. Is there any chance that’s what happened here — that you stalled for your own subliminal reasons? If so, that’s your clear path to finding some peace. 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

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schools

The Paper | Thursday, January 15, 2015

West Jackson Primary School Teacher of the Year – Aja Ledford West Jackson Primary School TOTY Aja Ledford was introduced by Assistant Principal Michele Archibald, who said Ledford is very vested in the community where she has lived for 13 years. She had been at WJPS for four years and was the very first person Archibald worked alongside Principal Linda Bell to hire. Formerly a preschool director in Lawrenceville, Ledford discovered her heart with the classroom after volunteering at her children’s school. After earning her bachelor’s degree, she did her student teaching at

WJPS. She recently earned her master’s degree and works hard professionally, said Archibald. Ledford says, “My passion is teaching.” A lifelong learner, she enjoys learning from her peers and enjoys engaging students who go home talking about exploding apples in science class. In only her fourth year of teavhing, Ledford is a shining example of the qualities we look for in master teachers, said Archibald. “I think she was destined to be a teacher and she is a gifted one,” said Archibald. “We are incredibly blessed to have your gifts.”

East Jackson Middle School Teacher of the Year – Amy Johnson East Jackson Middle School’s TOTY Amy Johnson is called Mrs. J by students and Amy J by fellow teachers but she wants to be known as science teacher extraordinaire. Introduced by Principal Tiffany Barnett, Johnson earned degrees in math and science and is also certified to teach high school and gifted. She offers a wonderful learning environment for her students who are captivated by what they are learning – either through

hands-on work like launching bottle rockets for building rollercoasters or listening to Johnson share science curriculum. She is involved in the new robotics initiative and is involved with PRISM and STEM as well as other acronyms. She is considered a science expert and is a leader in that department across the county. She has a science fair-winning son at EJMS and is engaged to Mike Schofield of the EJMS family.

Photos by LeAnne Akin

Jackson County Comprehensive High School Teacher of the Year – Jason Powers Jason Powers, Jackson County Comprehensive High School’s TOTY, is “one of our homegrown assets,:” said Principal Dr. Pete Jones (pictured R with Powers). A Jackson County High grad, Powers was a state championship wrestler and an Academic All-American. Now teaching in the math department, Powers also serves as wrestling coach. But his coaching isn’t just about wrestling, Jones said. He will pull a student aside in the hallway and counsel with him or her and leave the stu-

dent with a smile: he is making a difference in their lives. Powers also works with the Student Leadership Team. Powers received an email from a parent whose son was struggling with math. The student, who had previous needed a tutor, said Powers was the best math teacher he had ever had. The boost of self-confidence the student received resulted in a positive impact on his outlook even if he still struggled with the subject. “Thanks for all you provide for our students,” Jones told Powers.

More Teacher of the Year information on Page 7A

West Jackson Middle School Teacher of the Year – April Davis April Davis, West Jackson Middle School’s TOTY, is a prime example of Ray Bradbury’s quote “love what you do and do what you love” because she strives to let children know the passion she has for teaching. Principal Joe Cobb said Davis was the first teacher he met and he learned she is constantly on the go as the ag teacher and

FFA chapter organizer. Her chapter was recently recognized as one of the top five in the nation and it is head and shoulders above the rest, said Cobb. He said he has a great working relationship with Davis and admires “the passion she has for her children, my children, your children.” Cobb said, “I am in awe of her.”

Free GED preparation classes offered The Jackson County Adult Education Center, located in the Jackson County Campus of Lanier Technical College at 631 S. Elm St., in Commerce, is conducting new student registration and orientation at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 21. New students will need to provide a current state issued ID with photo upon enrolling. All students are required to attend class a minimum of six hours per week, Prospective 16- and 17-year-old persons desiring to enroll as an underage student will be required to furnish a withdrawal form from the last attended high school at registration. A parent or guardian is required to attend the first part of the registration session with the enrolling student. Underage home school students will need a parent or guardian to attend the session as well and complete a home school affidavit which will be provided by the center. To sign up for the free GED preparation classes or inquire about classes, contact Gwenn Evans by phone at 706-335-9549 or email at gevans@laniertech.edu South Jackson-Lanier Tech partnership South Jackson Elementary School is partnering with Lanier Technical College to provide Adult Education GED preparation classes. Offered will be Instruction in Reading, Writing, Science, Social Studies, Math and Computer Literacy with classroom and online instruction and classroom to college opportunities. An informational session will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15. Call Liza Davis, Family Engagement Specialist, at 706-543-8798 to learn more.

This program is an unprecedented opportunity to maximize newspaper, magazine and web advertising while saving your business more than $40,000. With your checkbook in hand, you now have the power to promote your business - in partnership with the No. 1 media source in North Georgia - at a fraction of the regular cost. The checkbook lets you take advantage of two-for-one specials, deep discounts for multiple-ad placement, adding color at no additional charge - and so much more. Whether you are creating a winter advertising campaign or you simply want to keep your business name in the forefront of consumers’ minds, your Times New Year’s Checkbook of Savings checks are ready to get to work for you. What a wise way to boost revenue off-season! Your Times multi-media consultant will be pleased to assist you with promotional themes, advertising designs & budget-pleasing ways to make optimal use of your checks. On behalf of the entire staff of The Times, we wish you a very successful 2015!

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

Services Accounting Slash Accounting Overhead Let a veteran CFO show you how Free Consultation Reasonable Rates Call Tom Cleveland 678-989-1667 (B) 678-677-5289 (C)

Adult Care 24Hr Tender Loving Care For Elderly in my home or yours. Experienced, Excellent Ref. 678-630-5631

Childcare OAKWOOD - 24 hr Child Care available in my home. Mon thru Sat. Lic’d & Ref 1 child $20 a day, 2 children $30 a day 770-536-0558

Construction ALL Residential & Commercial Sitework packages available. Call Henry Wallis at (770) 540-7537 or Email: hwwallis14@gmail.com

Firewood FIREWOOD Truckload =350 pcs. All hardwoods. $85 Cash Delivered. 770-873-5024

FIREWOOD-Aged Hardwood, Full Cord $160. face Cord $80. . Delivery & Stacking available. Call Mike 678410-1375

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 Do You LoveTo Sing? Consider joining Voices of North Georgia, a 50 voice community chorus based in the north Georgia city of Gainesville. This community chorus rehearses on Monday nights and presents a wide variety of beautiful choral compositions each season. Voices of North Georgia is in its 46th season of bringing “good music to the good people of north Georgia”. Spaces are available in the alto, tenor and bass sections for the second half of our season. For more information contact Mrs. Betsy Hopkins at bearh@att.net or by calling 770-534-3223

Jobs Child Care-Help Wanted Professional couple is looking for in-home nanny for eight-month old baby. Approximately twenty hours a week. Send resume to jwwspw@gmail.com

Dental Now hiring experienced technicians (ceramic, CAD/ CAM, waxing, die-trim) E&R Dental 770-534-9090.

General Sales Agents JOIN THE TIMES TEAM! Professional? Prepared? Producer? We are looking for individuals who will impact our bottom line and provide solid customer satisfaction experience. You will

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 Times, Gainesville, Georgia Thursday, January 15, 2015

Jobs Accounting Adult Care, Help Wanted

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

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

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

work with a seasoned and award winning staff of dedicated and dependable team builders and team players. Primary duties include developing new business while working to meet and exceed monthly sales quotas. A working knowledge of Excel software, advertising layout and design is helpful, but more important is your desire to help our clients succeed. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license with good driving record are required. Must have good written and verbal communication skills with external and internal customers, with a strong customer service/satisfaction drive. Need these skill sets to succeed: commitment, attention to detail, organization, teamwork, and ability to multi-task in fast-paced environment. Applicants should be experienced in online advertising, familiar with interpreting and explaining metric data, comfortable with softwares and technology, capable of sharing their knowledge with others and excited about selling one of the best news Web sites in the state. We offer a competitive salary & bonus plan as well as comprehensive benefits package. Email your resume and letter of interest including salary requirements to: hr@ gainesvilletimes.com No phone calls please. EOE/M/H Entry level Sales Position Available. Must be able to communicate well with potential and current customers. Representative will need to be a team player, speak well on the phone, and willing to learn about our products. Full time position - Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM. Please call Maria 770-368-8453. NEED MANAGER & SALES PEOPLE MAKE $1000.00 WEEKLY PLUS GOOD BENEFITS 678-456-9189 or 678464-4076 SALES/ACCT MANAGER for financial services firm in Cumming. Must be exp’d in business to business marketing. Forward resume to: guardianfinancial@ yahoo.com or fax to 770-783-5145

Maintenance Maintenance/General Laborer Property Mgmt Co. now hiring Full-time, M-F. Commercial experience a plus. Fax resume to 770-535-6622

Management Employment Opportunities: District 2 Public Health HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST (MANAGER) For more information on this Job Announcement please visit District 2 Public Health’s website at www.phdistrict2.org Application Deadline: 1-15-2015

QA SUPERVISOR needed in Duluth, GA. Min 2 yrs exp as QA Supervisor in food manufacturing. Send resume to msalazar@suzannas kitchen.com or fax 770-476-8899

Medical PRIVATE DUTY LPNCornelia area. 706-7768399; 706-983-0996

Registered Nurse - RN needed at Pain Management surgery center in Gainesville. Part Time. Weekdays. Mostly mornings. Good IV skills necessary. Please fax resume to 770-297-7564.

Misc. Help Wanted

CAGE REPAIR PERSON Accepting applications at 920 Queen city Parkway, Gainesville, 770-533-5094 Pilgrim’s is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Housekeeping Forklift Drivers Sewing Mach. Op. Overhead Crane CDL Drivers Weavers/Textile Maintenance Tech Material Handlers CNC Machinists Welders Top Notch Personnel 950 Washington St. #E Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 297-7377 At Home Or Office Pt/Ft $200/$600 Wkly Call Ctr, C/S Exp. Paid Training, Buford Dental Care Rx 770-271-1115 CARRIAGE NISSAN & KIA in Gainesville, GA has openings for Service Writers & Parts Drivers. F/T. Apply in person to Ryan Tapp, Carriage Nissan or email resume to : rtapp@ carriageautogroup.com. No phone calls please. Fulltime Position available for Residential Cleaning Co. Experience required. 770-318-8038 Position Available Posted Jan 8th, 2015 Waste and Water Operator/ Assistant Duties: This position will assist in the daily operations of the Water and Wastewater treatment plants. This includes, but not limited to collection and testing of samples, general maintenance and repairs of equipment related to Water and Wastewater plants and overall system operation, process control and other duties assigned by supervisor. Weekend work will be included. 90 day probationary period is mandatory. Competitive pay and benefits. - The ideal candidate will have, Georgia Certified Class III Wastewater License, Georgia Certified Class III Water License, an excellent stable employment record, good driving record, GA Driver’s License, spotless criminal background, clean drug screening. Resumes and application can be submitted to the attention of City of Lula, City Manager, P.O Box 99, 6055 Main St, and Lula Georgia 30554. Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Resume may also be submitted by Fax to 770-869-1299 and email to lulacity@ bellsouth.net No Phone Calls Please. The City of Lula is a Equal Opportunity Employer. Sawnee EMC Custodial/GroundsKeeper (part-time) for janitorial & grounds maintenance work. Requires some heavy lifting, high school diploma or equivalency and a valid GA driver’s license. Related experience with outdoor maintenance equipment preferred. Availability for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours. Applicants must complete an application form prior to 5 PM, January 19, 2015. Apply online: www.sawnee. com or application forms available at 543 Atlanta Hwy, Cumming GA 30040. Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled. Drug-Free Workplace. WANTED Custodial Supervisors and General Cleaners for the GainesvilleHall County area. Experience preferred, but not required; Apply in person at 2445 Hilton Dr., Ste.A-103 Gainesville, GA 30501 or call 770287-9658.

Office/Clerical Carriage KIA is seeking Office Asst.. Nights & wkends. Professional appearance. Apply at Carriage KIA or email resume to bseagraves@ carriage autogroup.com No phone calls please

*Requires payment in advance.

Professional The City of Cornelia has opening for Class III+ for Water plant. Have the necessary skills & physical ability to operate equipment. Work inside & outdoors. High School diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, be able to work shift work. Competitive salary. Application @ corneliageorgia.org,HR Dept. or fax (706) 7782234. EOE WRITER with web expertise Poultry Times based in Gainesville, GA. is seeking an editorial employee for our biweekly national newspaper as well as our daily updated website who can provide creativity in writing and design. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field, prior publication is a plus. Poultry Times uses InDesign and Microsoft Word software. To apply send cover letter, resume and/or page design samples to dstrickland@ poultrytimes.com or P.O. Box 1338, Gainesville, GA 30503

Restaurant Help Poor Richard’s is taking applications for F/T Exp’d. Servers 770-532-0499

Security AMERICAN SECURITY will be accepting applications for Full & Part-Time Security Officers. Applicants must have a clear criminal history record. Apply in person Mon. thru Fri, 8am-5pm, at the security office at Pilgrim’s 949 Industrial Blvd., Gainesville, GA EOE.

Technical

Conditioned Air Systems is seeking Commercial HVAC/R Technicians with minimum 5yrs experience and EPA certified. We offer company vehicle, lap top, phone, GPS and uniform. Excellent salary & benefits package including 401k & health ins. CAS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and drug free workplace. Conditioned Air Systems 2410 Hilton Way, Gainesville, GA 30501 770-536-7509

Trades MACHINE OPERATOR ATEX, INC. Automated, nonwoven mfg. plant in Gainesville is seeking selfmotivated, dependable, energetic individuals w/ mfg exp. to fill machine operator positions on its automated production lines. 24/7 Continuous mfg. operations. Must be available for all shifts. Competitive wages; excellent benefits, atmosphere, and growth potential. Apply in person: M–F. 8:30- 3:00, 2600 West Park Dr., Gainesville, GA. EOE Now Hiring: Qualified HVAC Helpers. Also seeking Service Tech w/at least 5yrs exp. Complete application at 4875 Plainview Rd., Flowery Branch, GA 770-532-0731

The City of Suwanee is accepting applications for Full-Time EQUIPMENT OPERATOR This is semi-skilled work in the operation of moderately complex construction and maintenance of streets, utilities and the City’s grounds and buildings. H.S. diploma or GED equivalent, valid GA Driver’s License and 2 years experience in maintenance & construction required. CDL, water operator license, further technical or vocational training in HVAC, plumbing, masonry or electrical wiring are desired. For additional information go to www.suwanee. com. Position open until filled. Drug Free Workplace. Equal Opportunity Employer

TRANSMISSION INSTALLER Professional. Min. 10yrs exp. Own tools. Cleveland Transmission 706-865-4275 WANTED: Alignment & Front End Tech. Must have exp. & own tools. 706-348-8484

Truck Drivers CDL CLASS A DRIVERS Local & OTR. Full benefits. Co. drivers only. 2yrs exp., clean MVR. 770-887-6117 CDL DRIVER- Class A for Atlanta Area Hauling. 678-617-9641 CDL DRIVER NEEDED. 2yrs exp. Call James 678-936-1592 EXP’D. CLASS A CDL DRIVER/OTR Full & P/T Needed. 678-997-3386 FT/PT CLASS A-CDL DRIVERSto haul live chickens in Gainesville, GA. $500 Sign On Bonus Must have 2 years verifiable experience, good MVR. Night Shift, local positions, home daily, benefits 804-784-6166

Warehouse FULL TIME Shipping position available in Buford, GA. Monday-Friday. Job tasks include, but are not limited to: Pulling items to fulfill orders, packing items on pallets, loading trucks, and receiving items. Must be hard working and dependable. Punctual. Sense of urgency to complete tasks. Must have experience, 1 year or more preferred. Pre-Employment drug test required, with random drug testing throughout employment. All employees will be E-verified. Email Maria for an application at maria@rncind.com or come in to apply: 2510 Mill Center Parkway, STE 200, Buford, GA 30518. Multiple assembly production jobs available! Positions available include, but are not limited to: product assembly, shipping and receiving, and machine operation. Requirements: Must be hard working, and dependable. Punctual. Must have reliable transportation to and from work. FULL TIME POSITIONS ONLY. Monday-Friday. Pre-employment drug test required, and random drug testing throughout employment. All employees are E-Verified. Call Maria, 770-368-8453, for details or come in to fill out an application. 2510 Mill Center Parkway, STE 200 Buford, GA 30158

Stuff Appliances WASHER & DRYER Kenmore. Exc Cond. $250. 770-983-1507 Washer/Dryers Stoves & Refrig. Mattresses. Refrig $125-$550. Washers/Dryers from $125. Stoves $150. We do Appliance & Service Calls! 678-714-0493

Cemetery Lots for Sale 2 Choice Cemetery Lots at Memorial park. 404-961-5468 Memorial Park Cemetery Rose Garden 2, Lot #220, B#4. Value: $5,175; Asking: $3500. Contact Diane 706-344-2233 MEMORIAL PK, sideby-side lots overlooking pond, near street $3800. Lve msg. 770-532-8616 Memorial Pk. Side-byside Lots. 2 Vaults, and 1Veteran’s companion marker. Retail value over $8000. 770-654-7454

Furniture 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

Misc. For Sale FISH TANK- 55Gal. Fresh or salt water. All accessories included. $300. 678-617-3586 NEW GM STEP RAILS, ext. cab $450; Set of 1992 Oldsmobile Wheels & Tires, $400; New NOS ‘Vette Pace Car Steering Wheel w/ box, $450. 770-654-3694 PIERCE’S PINE STRAW - Open Daily 8am-4pm. Weather permitting . We will Not Be Undersold. Quality For Quality! 1507 Martin Luther King Blvd., Gainesville, GA Across from The Tire Barn. We have Grade #1 for $3.25 per bale picked up. $3.50 bale delivered. New fallen Slash. Long needle avail. 678-617-0403 678-677-6352 POOL TABLE - Oak/ slate. 8’. $1000; Air Hockey- Dynamo 6’. $1000; 3 section wood Entertainment Center $850. Must pick up. 770654-6812 Woodworking Equipment Craftsman Band Saw, 10 in. Craftsman Table Saw, 10in. Craftsman Radial Arm Saw and 6in. Craftsman Jointer. All are new and still in box. $350 each or $1200 for all 4 pieces. 770-533-2921

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 “CHECK US OUT” Brandon Place Efficiency $495 1BR/1BA $595 2BR/2BA $700 Townhome 2/1-1/2 $725 Spring Valley 1BR/1BA $600 up 2BR/2BA $750 up 1/1 Furnished $1100mo Jacky Mathis 678-779-2687 3BR/1BA APT. Chestatee H.S. area. $600/mo; $600 dep. No Pets. 770-532-9803 Cedar Springs2BR. $725; 770-287-1456 callapartments.com HOUSES & APTS. Avail in Gainesville & Hall Co. The Simpson Co. 770-532-9911 Oakwood - 2/1.5, yard very safe, H/A $690$740. 678-357-5044 Oakwood -2 BR/1.5BA. Lrg liv/dIne area. New appls. 650+ utils/ WiFi. No pets. 770-534-5011.

Houses For RentFurnished No Rent Until February 1st Expires 1/31/15 3BR/2BA Homes Call Sun Homes 888-246-2803 Countrysidelake lanier.com EHO WAC

PIANO- Baldwin. Solid oak Spinet. Attractive style, orig owner, well maintained. Used little. Would retail at $5000+. Asking $985. 770-6546237

Houses For RentUnfurnished

YORKIE- AKC . Full blooded, male, 4mos. old. $500 678-617-0569

Sporting Equipment Bowflex Ultimate Exercise Machine Like new Cond. $3000/ new; Sell for $850. 770533-2921

2 BR, 1BA, large master bedroom. Hardwood floors, acreage $800mo. 770-540-4347 Owner/ Broker Apts/Homes. General Property Mgmt. 770-287-1456 www. callapartments.com N. HALL- 3BR/2BA $900mo + dep. 678400-8003 N.Hall, Mt Vernon. 4/2, full bsmt, fenced yrd. $1200m. 678-300-8480 OAKWOOD $800/mo. LULA $780/mo 770287-1456 callapartments.com Sardis 3/2, wood flrs, gas logs fp, lrg deck, $1075. 770-231-6886

Mobile Homes For Rent Used KEYS FITNESS CM560R recumbent exercise cycle. First $100 takes it. Call (678) 696-5982 after 6 pm

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

Rooms For Rent

Musical Instruments

Pets & Supplies

Roommates Wanted

3BR/2BA $130/wk 2BR/1BA $135/wk. We pay $100 on utils. No pets. 770-289-9142 Gainesville, S/N Hall 1-3BR $85 & up, per wk No app fee. 1 week free 770-534-7596

$115/wk. Furnished, all utils & cable. W/D. kitch. 770-561-0781

Recreation Boats & Marine BOAT DOCK 26 x 26 single slip 40 ft. gangway $1500.00 678-696-5158

RV’s/Travel Trailers RV LOT

Long-term. Full Hookups. $350/mo. includes utils. 678-2506465

Wheels Autos For Sale CADILLAC 2003 Sedan DeVille. Best Offer. SATURN 2001 L300. Best Offer. 706-867-8623; Cell 706-974-5858 CHEVY 2012 Impala $9987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 FORD 2012 Fusion $10,777 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 LANCER 2011 GTS $10,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 PONTIAC 2000 Grand am. 185k mi. Well maint’d. Look s & Runs good! $1500/obo 678622-0031 PONTIAC 2007 G6 $5987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335

Import Cars HONDA 2007 Accord $8777 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 HYUNDAI 2006 Sonata LTD. $6987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 KIA 2007 Sportage $6977 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 KIA 2010 Rio $7778 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 KIA 2011 Sorento LX $11,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 KIA 2012 Sedona LX $12,777 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335

NISSAN 2006 350Z Coupe. 1 owner, Pearl wht. $10,500. 678-9365374 NISSAN 2010 Frontier Crew Cab. $16,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 NISSAN 2011 Altima $11,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 NISSAN 2011 Rogue $13,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 NISSAN 2012 Versa $11,787 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 NISSAN 2013 Altima $13,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 NISSAN 2013 Altima silver/black 45K mi. $13,900 or best offer 770-536-1765 NISSAN 2014 Sentra $13,777 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 TOYOTA 1995 Camry. Low mi, Good Cond. $2700. 706-949-4688 TOYOTA 2006 Camry $10,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 TOYOTA 2006 Sequoia $7987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 TOYOTA 2006 Sequoia $7987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 TOYOTA 2008 Corolla CE $7987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335

Motorcycles HARLEY DAVIDSON 2005 Heritage, less than 12K miles, 1 owner, like new, sell due to health, $12,000 firm. 770-867-8244 404-435-6360

Sport Utility Vehicles CHEVY 2011 HHR 9777 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 JEEP 2002 Grand Cherokee. 2WD, 6cyl, Pwr wind/lcks, 112k. $3600. 770-540-1215 JEEP 2007 Wrangler Unlimited X-2 WD, 4 door Silver, auto with hardtop. Jeep replaced motor at 77K currently 126K, been well maintained, excellent cond. $14,500-Call before 8pm 678-8873021

Trucks NISSAN 2011 Frontier Ext Cab. $13,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335

KIA 2013 Soul $11,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335

TOYOTA 2006 Tacoma $7977 Call Carriage Nissan 7 70-532-6335

MAZDA-3 2010 $9987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335

TOYOTA 2011 Tacoma Double Cab. $19,987 All Credit OK Call Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335