The Paper August 30 Edition by The Times

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 30, 2012

Ga. 347 construction under way By JEFF GILL Regional staff

Work has started on the long-awaited widening of Ga. 347/Lanier Islands Parkway, the first of three projects that ultimately will serve as a major east-west connector in South Hall. Grading is under way near Atlanta Highway and silt fencing is up for most of the twomile route. The $14 million project calls for a fourlane divided highway, including sidewalks, between McEver Road/Peachtree Industrial Boulevard and Interstate 985.

New road segment to be added in front of planned hospital site is final link in project The roadway will split between numerous businesses, including restaurants, gas stations and strip shopping centers. Most of the road’s commercial development is between Atlanta Highway and I-985. The completion date on the project is Nov. 30, 2014, said Teri Pope, spokeswoman for the Georgia Department of Transportation’s District 1, which includes Hall County. Mack Burgess, new director of the proposed Lanier Islands Parkway Community

Improvement District, a self-taxing area allowed under the state constitution, said Sunday that he believed the DOT’s work along the road “will be good for our campaign.” The CID, which is trying to gain business support for the initiative, hopes to use revenues to pay for extras to the road. “There’s a huge aesthetic component (to a new road),” he said. “We want to clean up blighted areas along Lanier Islands Parkway. We’d love to dress it up a little bit.”

Mike Williams, CEO at Lake Lanier Islands resort, has said the CID “would do the stuff that the DOT won’t fund — for example, streetlights, signage and landscaping.” The DOT has awarded a contract for the second leg of the project, an eight-mile widening of Ga. 347 from I-985 — where Lanier Islands Parkway becomes Friendship Road — to Ga. 211/Old Winder Highway. “We expect work to begin in September,” Pope said last week, noting that could change. Friendship Road will be widened to six

See HIGHWAY, page 5A

HOSCHTON

Stompin’ and sippin’

Utility bills, deposits can be paid online

Château Élan’s Vineyard Fest marks 16th year with even more wines By LEANNE AKIN lakin@clickthepaper.com Wine and beer flowed Sunday at the 16th annual Vineyard Fest at Château Élan as some of the best among the state’s tastes of the vine and brews were poured up. “We had a great turnout – great participants and guests, fantastic weather and more wines for tasting than we’ve had in the 16 years we have been hosting the event,” said Doug Rollins, vice president of sales and marketing at Château Élan. Tipsy Canvas instructional artist Tracy Kokfe was on hand to inspire Vineyard Fest guests to try their hand at adding some creative strokes to a piece of artwork featuring a glass of wine. Music filled the air outside as The League of Decency, a seven-piece band, took the stage under the large tent where event-goers gathered. Guests also enjoyed cooking demonstrations and winemaker and brewmaster sessions. LeAnne Akin The Paper

Kathy and Chris Donnelly of Duluth kicked off their shoes to stomp some grapes during Sunday’s Vinyard Fest at Chateau Elan. Brandon Harting and Dave Keplinger were pouring up some samples of wines available from Northeast Sales Distributors. Tastings were held in the pavilion and the cask room. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com More than 100 different wines were available for sampling. Horse Creek Winery and Boutier Winery were among the returning participants. Currahee Vineyard & Winery was making its first appearance at the event bringing its Golden Harvest and Currahee Rose. Throughout the venue, food stations were set up offering samplings of shrimp and grits, pulled pork sliders, chicken quesadillas and other culinary delights. Some guests couldn’t resist the chance to kick off their shoes and stomp a few grapes.

Hoschton citizens and businesses can now make utility payments and deposits from the convenience of their home or office. nCourt, the leading government e-payment provider in the nation, announced that Hoschton has implemented nCourt’s electronic payment system. According to City Administrator Cindy George, providing convenience for citizens has been a goal since she arrived at city hall. “Our utility software was purchased some time ago with the promise that online bill payments would be forthcoming, but that never materialized,” said George. “I needed to find a way to provide this service without adding any expense to administer it. This system is user-fee based and therefore no cost to the city whatsoever.” Hoschton citizens can now visit www. cityofhoschtonpmts.com and access an easyto-use website (available in both Spanish and English) where utilities and utility deposits can be paid quickly and securely. Unfortunately, the system does not nterface with the city’s utility billing, so everything is manual. While there is no time savings, George said no added labor is involved. “We process the payments one by one just like if the customers drop off a check or pay in person with cash,” said George, who indicates she has fielded numerous requests for the service convenience, especially related to the deposits which amount to $160 for water, sewer and garbage. “That is difficult for many newcomers, so the ability to charge that is very helpful,” said George, who learned about at this summer’s Georgia Municipal Association meeting in Savannah. “They had all of the right answers; no cost to the city, easy to use, 24/7 customer service, a kiosk in city hall, and the sales rep answered all of our utility clerk’s concerns,” said George.

See HOSCHTON, page 2A

BULLI: Connect, learn By LEANNE AKIN lakin@clickthepaper.com When the fall term of Brenau University Learning & Leisure Institute (BULLI) in Braselton begins Sept. 24, Peg Sheffield knows her mother will be smiling down from heaven. Sheffield is a two-generation BULLI member. She and her sister are now a part of the program which Margaret Ellett helped to found. “My mother was 73 when BULLI started in Gainesville. She felt BULLI kept her mind active and was a great place to develop new friendships. She often said that BULLI helped keep her young,” said Sheffield. “A long-time Gainesville volunteer, it was only natural for her to immediately volunteer with BULLI. Member-led and member-driven, BULLI’s success depends on its member volunteers,” said Sheffield. “I know my mother would be thrilled that BULLI has expanded to Braselton.” Registration information is available at the Braselton Town Hall or by telephoning 706-6545720. A complete listing, venues and fees can be found at www.intranet.brenau.edu/bulli .

INSIDE Church 4A Entertainment 12A Events 11A Features 11A Forum 6A

Courses begin the week of Sept. 24, meeting weekly for seven weeks. Course offerings include introduction to digital photography, Al’s Taste of Braselton, creative nonfiction writing, basic home repairs, yoga, watercolor, greatest Civil War generals and more. A registration gathering was held Aug. 23 and BULLI Director Kathy Amos introduced Braselton Town Manager and Clerk Jennifer Dees as her “cohort in crime.” Dees produced a brief overview of how the BULLI program came to Braselton. Last October, she met Amos as she was exploring how to bring educational opportunities to downtown Braselton. “We want to provide lots of options for our citizens,” said Dees, who also expressed the town’s desire to have opportunities to attract people to come to town. BULLI provided the opportunity to bring lifelong learning to downtown Braselton. A group of community members serve as the curriculum committee. Headed by Lynn Hammond, the committee of Jim Smith, Peg Heckathorn,

See BULLI, page 5A

Volume 6, Number 43 Obituaries 4A 4A Pastor’s Pen Police report 2A Puzzles 12A Sports 10A

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Peg Sheffield, a second generation BULLI student, and Dr. Nancy Krippel, Brenau University Provost & Senior VP Academic Affairs, were at Thursday’s registration for BULLI in Braselton. Registration continues this week.

Got a news tip? Call 706-658-2683 or e-mail editor@clickthepaper.com Want to advertise? Call 706-658-2683 or e-mail dpurvis@clickthepaper.com Delivery questions? Call 770-532-2222 or e-mail circulation@clickthepaper.com

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The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

BRIEFLY County offices announce Labor Day observance

For The Paper

Hugh Hamley of Hoschton got a call from an out-ofstate friend who informed him of his recent win.

Hoschton man wins again For The Paper A Hoschton father of three who is no stranger to winning the lottery has struck it rich again. Hugh Hamley, 55, won $1 million in the Super Millions Second Chance drawing. Hamley had won $10,000 by participating in the Maximum Green Monthly Extra Chance Drawing in 2010. “I got a call from a friend in Tennessee who saw my name on the news,” Hamley

said in a released statement. “I checked on the computer, and I was antsy trying to figure out what to do.” With the million-dollar prize, Hamley, who is the manager of a data company, is ready to start thinking about his retirement. “I’ve been thinking about the type of lifestyle I want to have when I retire,” he shared. “But I’m going to stick to my plan and continue working.”

POLICE REPORT Braselton Police ■ A theft by taking was reported Aug. 21 at a Highway 53 residence. An antique double white gold ring with one carat diamond surrounded by purple stones valued at $15,000 was missing from a jewelry box. The name of a possible suspect was provided to police. ■ A vehicle traveling 86 mph on Interstate 85 where the speed limit is 70 mph was stopped Aug. 21. A check of the driver’s license showed the license was suspended for a failure to appear charge which was pending from Lawrenceville Police. The driver was taken to the Gwinnett County Jail. ■ A Grand Hickory Drive resident reported his 31-year-old girlfriend was missing on Aug. 22. The female left the residence on Aug. 20 and had not returned. A description of the woman was provided to police. The woman took her medication and her purse but left behind her cell phone. On Aug. 24, Hall County EMS contacted the Braselton Police to report the female was being transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for evaluation. The man indicated he had picked the woman up that morning at a hotel where she reportedly had been smoking crack with another man. He told police he was too tired to notify law enforcement that she had been found. ■ Several concrete statues were removed from outside Braselton Antique Mall during the night of Aug. 22. Two painted UGA bulldogs, a girl bird, two angels, man and woman fountain, a St. Francis, a concrete dog and puppies, a boy and girl reading and a Jesus surrounded by children were taken. The statues are valued at more than $350. ■ The passenger in a vehicle stopped Aug. 24 on Interstate 85 for a window tint violation was charged with possession of a controlled substance after a con-

sent search of the Ford Windstar minivan netted a plastic film canister containing 19 Oxycodone Hydrochloride tablets. The search was requested after police got conflicting stories from the out-of-state driver and passenger who were traveling to Atlanta. The passenger was taken to the Gwinnett County Jail. ■ The driver of a vehicle that failed to maintain its lane on Highway 53 at Cherry Drive was taken into custody Aug. 24 and transported to the Gwinnett County Jail. He was charged with failure to maintain lane, driving under the influence, open container and driving on a suspended license. ■ A Lexington Court couple notified police Aug. 24 of harassment by phone and text by the woman’s ex-husband

Jackson County offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 3,, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Because of the holiday, the next meeting of the Jackson County Board of Commissioners will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 4. The board general convenes on the first and third Monday of the month. All Gwinnett County government offices, with the exception of those operations required for the comfort and safety of the residents of the county, will be closed in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Haulers will follow their normal trash schedules during the Labor Day holiday. The Gwinnett County Solid Waste and Recycling Call Center will be closed that day, but hauler call centers will be open. Residents can visit www.sustainablegwinnett.com to find their hauler’s contact information. Offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 3, and will reopen during normal business hours on Tuesday, Sept. 4. Hall County’s administrative offices, courts, community centers and libraries will be closed Monday, Sept. 3, for the Labor Day federal holiday. Also all Hall County government offices in the Development Services building on Prior Street, as well as the Engineering Division in the Joint Administration Building, will be closed on Tuesday, Sept. 4, as they move to the new Hall County Government Center. The new county government head-

who had threatened to kidnap her children and harm her. ■ The window of a Chevy van parked in the Bordeaux Business Park on Aug. 25 was busted to gain access to four Kirby vacuum/shampoo systems valued at $2,799. ■ A Grand Hickory Drive resident reported Aug. 25 that her neighbor’s dog continues to come onto her property and do his business after requests to keep the dog off her lawn. The police officer spoke to the dog owner. ■ A woman reported her husband and his girlfriend were at El Centinela on Spout Springs Road on Aug. 25 and both were in possession of marijuana. Police learned a domestic had previously occurred in Hall County and Hall County authorities were contacted to investigate. When questioned, the

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quarters is located at 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. Barrow County governmental offices will also be closed on Monday, Sept. 3, with offices reopening for business on Tuesday.

Hoschton sets hearing The City of Hoschton will hold a Sept. 13 public hearing for an amendment to the Recreation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) fund. The council is considering a proposed project to relocate and partially restore the historic Hosch Store to the Depot Park. The plans also contemplate relocation of the playground equipment to the City Square lot. “The total estimated cost to relocate the building by the depot, restore the exterior and relocate the playground is $50,000,” said City Administrator Cindy George. According to George, the proposal utilizes $25,000 from Recreation

SPLOST, $12,500 in public donations obtained through fundraising and a matching donation from the Hudgens Family Estate. The public hearing, to be followed by a meeting to formally consider the amendment, will be held at 7 p.m. on Sept. 13,at Hoschton City Hall. Copies of the proposed budget are available from City Hall. Contact George at 706-654-3034 or by email at cgeorge@cityofhoschton.com.

Next District 3 town hall meeting set for Sept. 13

Jackson County District 3 Commissioner Bruce Yates announces his next town hall meeting will be at 7 p.m. in Sept. 13, at the Braselton Public Safety Building. Jackson County School Superintendent Dr. John Green has been invited to share a few words and Commission Chairman-elect Tom Crow will also be on the program, according to Yates.

HOSCHTON from page 1A

Convenience offered to citizens Citizens wishing to make a payment simply log on to: www.cityofhoschtonpmts.com. The convenient, easy-to-follow website is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and enables payments to be made and confirmed within minutes, ensuring completion and avoiding potential penalties.

man confirmed he had been smoking marijuana and had a marijuana and a pipe in his truck. The marijuana was turned over to police and a citation for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana was issued. The man also voluntarily handed over a pair of leg shackles and the key which he said a Gwinnett County deputy had given him eight months ago. The girlfriend was also questioned about the marijuana and turned over a small clear baggy of marijuana. She was also issued a citation for possession. ■ A White Walnut Way resident called police to report a domestic

MasterCard, VISA, American Express and Discover credit cards as well as debit cards are all acceptable forms of payment. Citizens can also call a toll-free payment hotline 800-701-8560 where they are guided through the payment process by live, bilingual, U.S. customer support representatives.

violence incident on Aug. 25. The woman said the suspect had cause damage to her bedroom door with a hammer and had threatened to hit her with the hammer. She said he pushed her into the wall and then onto the bed. She said she was punched and kicked

and scratched the suspect. The man was packing his vehicle to leave when police arrived. He was transported to the Gwinnett County Jail and charged with simple battery. See POLICE, page 3A

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The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

Synthetic marijuana is a problem for legislature as well as law enforcement By KATIE JUSTICE kjustice@clickthepaper.com State legislators try to keep synthetic marijuana off the shelves, but the designer drug continues to make appearances, leaving local authorities to take action. Synthetic marijuana, which consists of a plant material sprayed with chemicals that mimic the psychoactive effects of THC, isn’t an uncommon topic in national news. However, it has hit closer to home. Synthetic marijuana has sent at least one Barrow County teen to the emergency room, and the Winder Police Department has responded to one case where one man stripped down to his boxers and threatened to kill himself after consuming drug. Often thought to be the legal type of marijuana, the synthetic form can be far more dangerous than original. The psychoactive effects of the synthetic marijuana can be up to 500 times more potent. “What they don’t tell you is it’s stronger than the THC in regular marijuana. It’s a bigger high, a bigger rush, but people become delusional and have psychotic episodes,” said Braselton Assistant Police Chief Lou Solis. “When [teens] use it they have what they call a sitter, that’s a friend to watch over them,” said Winder Detective Gregg Teatino of drug users acknowledging the risks of the drug. These risks include stroke, seizure, paranoia

Designer drug poses serious health effects and bizarre behavior and even psychotic episodes. Despite both state and national legislation banning synthetic marijuana, producers continue to modify and sell the drug. Because the drug is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, only specific chemical compounds can be banned from use. “The state declares it illegal and the next day they’ll change the chemical composition to make it legal again. It’s a chess match really,” said Winder Chief of Police Dennis Dorsey. Former Gov. Sonny Perdue implemented Georgia’s first ban of synthetic marijuana in 2010, which specifically banned the substance called K2. In April, current Gov. Nathan Deal signed an additional bill into effect that bans several chemical compounds found in some types of synthetic marijuana. And once the drug producers changed the composition of the drug to make it legal again, Deal prompted the Georgia State Board of Pharmacy to institute an emergency ban of additional chemical compounds last June. “The biggest problem we’re seeing is the state legislation trying to keep up. They’re al-

POLICE from page 2A Jackson County Sheriff’s Office ■ Two men and one woman were arrested for confirmed warrants on Old State Road in Pendergrass on Aug. 21 ■ There was a motor vehicle accident on Yarbrough Ridgeway Road on Aug. 19. A car attempting to pass on a double yellow line attempted to return to the correct lane to quickly and struck another car. The car that was hit in the incident then had to chase down the other car until it stopped threefourths of a mile down the road. He driver of the car that struck the other admitted to trying to pass on a double line and hitting the other car, but that she hadn’t had her license for long and didn’t know what to do. ■ A deceased woman was discovered at her Martin Road home by her sister on Aug. 19. She is believed to have died of natural causes. ■ A woman found walking down the center of Doster Road in Jefferson on Aug. 18 was issued a citation for being a pedestrian under the influence. The woman said her father and boyfriend were calling her names so she decided to walk to Maysville. She admitted to drinking two 24-ounce beers and participated in a field sobriety test. After difficulty completing the tasks of the test, she was then asked to blow in the alco-sensor which tested positive for alcohol. ■ A resident of Savanna Lane flagged down a deputy on Aug. 17. The mane complained of a

neighbor who blocks the street with his lawn care business’ equipment. The man then asked for information on ordinances and was forward to code enforcement. ■ A deceased man was reported on Ednaville Road on Aug. 20. He is believed to have died of natural causes. ■ A man reported a theft by taking after discovering someone had stolen the cable box from the power pole outside his house on Aug. 20. ■ A possible threat was reported at a Pendergrass business on Aug. 20. A female employee reported being threatened by a male employee to the plant manager. However, the man who

supposedly threatened the woman was speaking in a language no one else understood. The man said he had a disagreement with the woman but no threats were issues. ■ On Aug. 19 a Pendergrass woman reported a woman had driven by and screamed obscenities. The complainant directed officers to the woman who admitted to having driven by and screaming the obscenities. The deputy advised the woman to not continue the harassment. ■ A man was discovered to be driving with an expired tag and suspended license on Highway 332 at John B. Brooks Road on Aug. 18. ■ On Aug. 17, a woman

ways one step behind,” said Dorsey. Local police are reaching out to the community to try to prevent use of the dangerous drug. “As a department, we’ve done education forums for the public and compliance checks with the places that sell it,” said Dorsey. The Winder Police Department has also completed a presentation for public education on the dangers of synthetic marijuana at the Winder Barrow High School, posted public service announcement about the drug on their Facebook page, done undercover compliance checks and has even hosted classes educating other police departments on the issue. “It’s going to take everybody,” said Solis. “To the kids, it’s a game, but they don’t understand how serious it is health-wise.” Not only is the drug dangerous physically, it can also earn jail time. “It’s a felony charge. It’s possession of a controlled substance,” said Teatino. And if someone is caught with a suspicious substance that can’t immediately be labeled as illegal, the substance is sent to a crime lab and tested. If any banned chemical compounds are found the suspect is then charged with a felony. “I think it’s worse than marijuana simply because you don’t know what you’re getting into. You’re depending on some high school dropout in a factory doing work a chemist should be doing,” said Dorsey.

reported possible damage to vehicle on I-85 after another truck driver indicated she had struck his vehicle. She denied striking his vehicle despite several small

Hero’s Ball is Friday The second annual Hero’s Ball – being held Friday evening at the Braselton-Stover House – will feature recognition of four public safety workers from West Jackson, according to organizer Amber Chatham. The Hero’s Ball is an event to honor the men and women of the West Jackson Fire Department, Braselton Police Department and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. All proceeds will go to Operation One Voice, which is sponsoring its Warrior Weekend for special forces families Sept. 7-9. See www.OperationOneVoice.org Sponsors for the second annual Hero’s Ball include Funari Realty, Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Georgia Kids Academy, Mr. Smith Corporate Concierge, ProCare Prostethics & Orthotics, Whole Foods Market - Braselton Distribution Center, Cornbread & Caviar, Independence Bank, Hayes Automotive, Cork & Keg, Braselton Visitor’s Bureau Authority, Safelite AutoGlass, North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry, Chateau Elan Winery & Resort, Gunn Ammunition, Wilco Printing, Hometown Community Bank, Hoschton Fall Festival/The Kenerly Farm, David’s Gun Room, West Jackson Medicine Center, Cornell McBridge Photography, D&R Cigars and Greco Aesthetics.

scratches in her passenger side rear view mirror. The other driver did not stop and there were no complaints filed. ■ A car parked outside and abandoned Jeffer-

son residence resulted in the arrest of a man with an outstanding warrant in Barrow County after a deputy stopped to investigate vehicle on Aug. 18.

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The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

His promise: Help, healing

Brianna Elizabeth Bryant and Robert Caleb Waldorf

Bryant, Waldorf to wed Brianna Elizabeth Bryant will become the bride of Robert Caleb Waldorf during a Sept. 1, 2012, ceremony at Gainesville First Baptist Church in Gainesville. The bride-elect is the daughter of Steven Lee Bryant and Donna Henley Bryant of Hoschton. She is the granddaughter of Emory and Jean Henley of Clarksville, Tenn., and Louise Bryant of Lynchburg, Va. The groom-elect is the son of Robert Conway Waldorf and Janice Duck Waldorf, and the grandson of Juanita Duck of Braselton. His sister is Mrs. Robert (Lauren) Deaton. Dwayne Smith will be the officiating minister. The bride will be given in marriage by her parents. Jessica Nichole Presley, sister of the bride, will be the matron of honor. Other bridal attendants will be Nichole

Bailey, Kelley Gray, Jessica Smith and Jocelyn Ryan. Serving as flower girl will be Charity Davis with Addison Bailey as sign bearer. Robert Waldorf will serve as his son’s best man, with the groom’s brother Ryan Waldorf, Matthew Smith, Kyle Presley and Jensen Brock as attendants. Nathan Bade will be the ring bearer with Tyler Payne as usher. Pianist/organist Kendra Phillips will accompany vocalist Matthew Smith with Weldon Davis as scripture reader. Hailey Burrell and Cassie Berryman will be the bride’s book attendants. Robert and Jan Waldorf will host the rehearsal dinner. The couple will honeymoon in Los Cabos, Mexico. They make their home in Braselton.

CHURCH NEWS

begin with prayer meeting at 7 p.m. followed by Bible Study at 7:30. The current study of is Joshua on Sunday nights and Philippians on Wednesday nights. A nursery and children’s church is provided on Sunday mornings for children 7 and under. Reach the Rev. Cory Sexton at 678-234-9408. sss

The Primetimers Lunch and Bingo is at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 31, in the Fellowship Hall of Hoschton United Methodist Church. Bring a covered dish. The church is located at 12 Mulberry St., three blocks behind Hoschton City Hall. Visit www.hoschtonumc.org; email hoschtonumc@windstream.net or call 706- 654-1422. sss Union Baptist Church of Flowery Branch will be graduating its children, 8 and above, from Children’s Church. Everyone is invited to join us in the celebration as we grow our children into the worship service on Sunday, Sept. 2, during the 11 a.m. worship service. Union Baptist Church is located at 5155 Union Church Road, Flowery Branch. sss Join us at White Plains Baptist Church for an exciting “i-Renew” Conference to be held on Saturday evening, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m. with message by Brother Josh Rhye. Dinner for that evening will be served at 5 p.m. On Sunday morning, Sept. 9, the 11 a.m. message will be by Broother Randy Rhye, Sunday evening message at 6 p.m. will be by Brother Jamie Rhye. There are many things we, as Christians, need to renew in, such as God’s word, Sunday school, missions or our love for our Lord. We will be challenged all weekend in these areas of life. Hope you make plans to join us at 3650 Hwy 124 West in Jefferson. sss Union Baptist Church will be having a new Bible study. The Precept Bible study entitled “Lord, I want to know you” is a study of the names of God. The class will be from 6:308:30 p.m. on Mondays beginning Sept. 10 in the church fellowship hall. Union Baptist Church is located at 527 Union Church Road in Winder. Contact Karen Hawkins at 678-6894148 or email Khawk717@lycos. com sss The Church of Hoschton extends an open invitation to come and worship and fellowship. Bible study begins at 9:30 on Sunday mornings with worship following at 10:30 and evening Bible study at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday services

New Community Church’s Concert in the Park, announced for Sept. 8, has been postponed. sss The Westbrooke Family Worship Centre is now meeting each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at its new campus, located at 401 Lewis Braselton Blvd., in Braselton. Adults meet in the gymnasium facility with children in the school building. Everyone is welcome. Visit www. thewestbrookcentre.net sss Starting Sept. 5, enjoy free Wednesday night activities at Hoschton United Methodist Church starting with supper at 6:15 p.m. and Adult Bible study on “Revelation.” Youth activities also resume. Pastor is the Rev. Luis Ortiz. The church is located at 12 Mulberry St., three blocks behind Hoschton City Hall. Visit www.hoschtonumc. org; email hoschtonumc@windstream.net or call 706-654-1422. sss Hamilton Mill Presbyterian Church dedicates its newly installed playground on Sunday, Sept. 16. Enjoy a free hot dog lunch, playground and volleyball. The worship and dedication begins at 10:30 a.m. with lunch and play at 11:30 a.m. Hamilton Mill Presbyterian Church is located at 5152 Braselton Highway, Hoschton. Call 678-714-3344 or visit www.hamiltonmillpc.com sss Mt. Tabor Baptist Church will celebrate 100 years on Sunday, Sept. 9. There will be singing and a presentation of a plaque by the Mulberry Association to commemorate the 100th birthday of the church. Lunch will be served afterwards to all who attend. Everyone is welcome. Sunday school is at 10 a.m. with morning worship at 11 and evening worship at 6. Wednesday night services are at 6:30. Mt. Tabor Baptist Church is on Ga. Highway 330 in Statham. Call 770-725-5564 to reach Pastor Blake Foster.

“What this world needs, is not another the door way to the promises contained on the preacher in an Armani suit!” covenant. The classification is quite simply What a brilliant line, from the thought “my people.” That tells us specifically who is provoking song by Casting Crowns. I must, effected by this passage and it is all who are in all honesty, say that I named as the children of God. would look nice in an ArNotice next the command or in this mani suit. At least I think case four commands. First we are enI would. I’ve never worn couraged to humble ourselves which one. I can definitely say may be difficult to undertake but is not that I would feel nice in difficult to understand. We must come an Armani suit. But then before God knowing that we are helpthe suit is really not the less and therefore totally dependant Cory Sexton object of thought in that upon him. There are no programs The Pastor’s Pen line. The object of thought that will provide the relief that this is contained with in the promise will. Secondly, we must pray. statement “What this This is no bed- time prayer or mealworld needs”. That, as they used to say, is the time blessing. The indication in the original $64,000 question. And it is precisely what I text is that of intercession and supplication. intend to write about today. Intercession is where we pray for the needs of The discussion concerning the needs of this others and supplication is the earnest sharing world (cosmos), or this country, or this county of our problems with God. Both require the or even our community is quite variegated. I attitude that He is the only answer. Then we suppose it is determined by your perspective are told to seek His face, this indicates that we or your perception and most assuredly, this are to pray until we receive an answer, we are time of year, by your political persuasion. praying for a conclusion, we are admitting From my perspective as a Christian and that without His help we cannot continue. And through my perception as an American, govfinally we are commanded to turn from our ernment and government programs are not wicked ways, that phrase may be offensive to the answer, God is! Community awareness is some, but it is a command just the same. The a non-starter unless it includes repentance. phrase is emphatic, the tone is imperative. Civic involvement has limited effect if it is not There must be a repentance. A turning away Christian in appearance, approach and abidfrom our old ways, and a beginning of new ance. Some will say that we need a new Presiways. Before you become offended with my dent, or new Senators, or new Congressmen, thought process allow me to remind you that or new Commissioners, or new Councilmen, this verse is written to God’s people. That is and the ever popular new Sheriff in town. But the Church today. The repentance must begin I will remind you that history has shown, and within the walls of our local churches before the present will continue to prove that short of it will ever reach the halls of congress, or the a spiritual revival things never change. houses of the citizens. If we humble ourselves, The Bible is very clear as to how we experi- and pray for the needs of others and earnestly ence a spiritual revival and thereby receive share our needs with God. And then if we will what this world needs. II Chronicles 7:14 seek His face as if he is the only answer to our which states “If my people, which are called problems. And finally if we will repent. Then by my name, shall humble themselves, and and only then, He promises, He covenants pray, and seek my face, and turn from their with us, then will I this is the covenant. If my wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, people, then will I. Notice the concessions, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their the things that He is willing to do, hear from land.” contains a condition, carries a clasHeaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. sification, consist of four commands, and I am moved beyond words to know that the promises a covenant which allows for three God of all of Heaven and the Creator of all concessions. This is the answer to our needs the universe will hear me. But the promise today. This will supersede programs that prois more than hearing, it is also helping and vide food, finance, fuel, friends and furniture. healing. It will make obsolete all plans for improveIf our nation needs help, and we do. If our ment, increase, income and insurance. It will economy is struggling, and it is. If our people repair the broken. Replace the barbaric and are suffering, and they are. If our churches reclaim the banished. And it is not new, it is have a responsibility, and we do. And if our not improved, but it is fresh and it is free and God is great, and he is. Then what this world it has been and will continue to be effective. really needs is Christians who will humble The condition and the classification are themselves and pray and seek God’s face with contained in one thought it is quite simply a repentant heart. “If my people”. The condition is found in the Seeking His Path, keeping my eyes upon huge little word “IF”, now I can think of many Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, ifisms (my word) that have been used and Rev. C. they range from corny cliché to comically colloquial and all points in between. There are a The Rev. Cory Sexton is pastor of the Church number of “Ifs” that litter the road to success of Hoschton, which meets at 3849 Highway and just as many along the path to failure. But, 53 in Hoschton. Dean of Gwinnett Hall Baptist this “If” is of such great import because it is College, he also has Cory Sexton Ministries,

OBITUARIES Betty Jo Baldwin

Died Aug. 26, 2012 Betty Jo Baldwin, 70, of Winder, died Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. Born in Cookeville, Tenn., she was a daughter of the late Vestal and Gladys Snyder Buckner. A homemaker, she was also preceded in death b her husband, Robert Lee Baldwin Jr. Survivors include her son, Joe Stamps of Flippin, Ariz.; daughter, Lisa Adams of Statham; stepsons, Mike Baldwin and Bob Baldwin, both of Winder; stepdaughters, Debbie Smith of Winder and Linda Schutte of Holgate, Ohio; grandchildren, Casey Stamps and Jessica Adams; greta-grandchild, Aurora Johnson; and sister, Glorida Carr of Cookeville, Tenn. Graveside services were held Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, in Barrow Memorial Gardens. Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Aug. 30, 2012

Kathleen Sybil Mills Bryant

Died Aug. 24, 2012 Kathleen Sybil Mills Bryant, 75, of Jefferson, died Friday, Aug. 24, 2012. Born in Cumming, she was a daughter of the late Toy and Evelyn Lands Mills. Mrs. Bryant was a homemaker and a member of the Brockton Road Baptist Church. He husband, Lonnie Bryant, and daughter, Judy Staton Boggs, preceded her in death. Survivors include her children, Michael Staton and Raymond Ellis, both of Jefferson, and Laura Westwood of Athens; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held Monday, Aug. 27, 2012, at Brockton Road Baptist Church with the Rev. Jesse Mealor officiating. In lieu of flowers, make memorials to the Brockton Road Baptist Church, 2675 Brockton Road, Jefferson, GA 30549. Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Aug. 30, 2012

Mary Lois Helton

Died Aug. 24, 2012 Mary Lois Helton, 80, of

Gainesville, died Friday, Aug. 24, 2012, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center following an extended illness. Funeral services were held Monday, Aug. 27, 2012, in the chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home with the Rev. James Dumas officiating. Interment followed in Memorial Park Cemetery. Born on Sept. 15, 1931, in Gainesville, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Ola Beck Crane. She was a homemaker and a member of Browns Bridge Church of God. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ben Helton; and her brother, Charles Crane. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Douglas Allison of Gainesville; sons and daughters-in-law, Benjamin Jr., and Lisa Helton of Gainesville and Douglas W. and Donna Helton of Clermont; brother, Howard Crane of Braselton; sisters, Dorothy Carney of Danielsville, Donice Howard of Phoenix, Ariz., and Pat and Maurice Montgomery of Cleveland; brother and sisterin-law, Billy and Mae Belle Crane of Dahlonega; granddaughters and husbands, Sandy and James Garrett, Jessica and Necoma Grindle and Shannon Helton; grandsons and wife, William and Emily Allison, Noah Allison and Benjamin Helton III; and 13 great-grandchildren. Memorial Park Funeral Home, Gainesville The Paper, Aug. 30, 2012

Laura Fay Irvin Vandiver

Died Aug. 25, 2012 Laura Fay Irvin Vandiver, 58, of Gainesville, died Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012. Born in Gainesville, she

was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. A.J. and Flora Morgan Irvin. Mrs. Vandiver was a 1972 graduate of Jefferson High School, and earned a LPN degree from Athens Technical College. She was a member of the Blackshear Place Baptist Church in Flowery Branch, and was a retired director of human resources with more than 30 years experience at various manufacturing facilities. Mrs. Vandiver was also the business director for the P.U.R.E. Ministries in Gainesville. Survivors include her husband of 37 years, Russell Vandiver; son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Amanda Vandiver of Gainesville; grandchildren, Jackson and Taylor; sisters and brothers-in-law, Tracey (Irvin) and Lew Chandler of Corinth, N.Y., and Marcia (Irvin) and Alex Bryan of Jefferson; niece, Katie and Ryan Glenn of West Palm Beach, Fla.; nephew, Will Bryan of Atlanta; great-nephew and -niece, Mason and Carson of West Palm Beach, Fla. The funeral service was held Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012, at Blackshear Place Baptist Church in Flowery Branch with Dr. Jeff Crook officiating. The burial followed in the Talmo Baptist Church Cemetery with Ralph Atkinson, Les Johnson, Homer Myers, Frank Siple, Dean Stringer, Keith Moore, Mike Sample and Jeff Rice honored as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to Laura’s favorite charity, P.U.R.E. Ministries, a ministry of Zachariah’s Way, P.O. Box 5565, Gainesville, GA 30504. Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Aug. 30, 2012

CMYK Local

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

‘Celebrate My Drive’ about safety By KATIE JUSTICE kjustice@clickthepaper.com Braselton insurance agent Cindy Phillips is hoping to help earn $100,000 for one local high school as part of the State Farm Celebrate My Drive event. State Farm Insurance Company is trying to highlight the positive aspects of safe teenage driving through event held across the country on Saturday, Sept. 15. Celebrate My Drive will be giving away 14 new cars to teenagers aging from 15-18, and 14 $100,000 grants to participating high schools. “This is going to be State Farms biggest initiative, but State Farm has decided to put a lot of money into Teen Safe Driving. This isn’t a one shot deal. I’m very excited about this project,” said Phillips. She is hoping to help bring one of the grants to Jackson County Comprehensive High School. Students can enter daily online to increase their school’s chances of winning. They can also enter each day for a chance to win one of the 14 new cars being given away. Phillips invites students to participate in the Celebrate My Drive event Friday, Sept. 14, at the JCCHS homecoming football game. There will also be an event Saturday, Sept. 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Mall of Georgia.

“We are trying to celebrate teens driving, not scare them into safe driving. Celebrate their accomplishment and hopefully they will realize with the privilege of driving comes a huge responsibility,” said Phillips. She said she hopes the Celebrate My Dive event will encourage teenagers to be better drivers. “We all have to be responsible for ourselves and watch out for others. Being a defensive driver is a must in today’s world. Doesn’t help much sitting in the hospital bed with a banged up car, saying ‘it was their fault’. Let’s watch, let’s pay attention to the road, let’s protect ourselves,” said Phillips. As the parent of two teenage children, Phillips said, “This hits pretty close to home. I also see a lot of bad decisions which cause avoidable accidents in my line of work. Any accident we can help avoid saves money, saves times, saves lives. “I’m hoping parents and guardians will really get involved,” said Phillips. “We must set good examples for our children. It’s hard to tell them not to text and drive, if we do. We all have to be responsible for ourselves and watch out for others. Being a defensive driver is a must in today’s world.” Visit celebratemydrive.com or facebook. com/CelebrateMyDrive.

BULLI from page 1A

Life-long learning comes to Braselton Peg Sheffield, Julie Allen and Guy Herring is responsible for the classes and the instructors enlisted to be involved with the fall term of BULLI in Braselton. Dees said the Braselton experience provides evening classes so that those who are working can enjoy the offerings. Nancy Hill, president of BULLI in Gainesville, said she has been involved for more than 10 years and generally takes four or five

classes per term. She estimates she has taken 150 classes and is also involved in the hiking and dining groups. Amos said BULLI has been on the Gainesville campus of Brenau University for 19 years and has students from five surrounding counties. Membership is $130, and classes in Braselton or on the main campus are $35 each. Official registration lasts through Aug. 30.

HIGHWAY from page 1A

Road project: Completion in mid-2015 lanes between I-985 and Hog Mountain Road and to four lanes between Hog Mountain Road and Spout Springs Road. The final link will be a six-lane segment between Spout Springs and Ga. 211 that is all new roadway and will run in front of the Northeast Georgia Health System’s planned new South Hall hospital. Officials have said construction will take place there first to coincide with development of the 100-bed hospital, which is expected to open in the spring of 2015. The new lanes are set to be completed in October 2013, with the overall road project slated to wrap

up in July 2015. Thompson Mill Road, which now serves as Ga. 347 between Spout Springs and Ga. 211, “will become a local road and will remain open to traffic,” Pope said. However, “Thompson Mill will not be a continuous road from 211 to Spout Springs, as it is now.” A third project calling for the widening of Ga. 347 from McEver Road to Lake Lanier Islands resort also is in the works. The new 2.4-mile road would feature three lanes and sidewalks. Right-of-way acquisition is scheduled to begin before June 30 and construction is planned for 2014-15, Pope said.

learning for life

Performance standards: Common expectations By KATIE JUSTICE kjustice@clickthepaper.com Parents and students throughout Georgia may notice a slight change in the curriculum beginning this fall. Georgia, along with 47 other states, developed a set of core standards for K-12 students in English language arts and mathematics. The purpose of these standards is to establish a uniform curriculum across the country that would better prepare students for life after high school. The effort to move to Common Core State Performance Standards was state-led by the National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers with the assistance of Achieve, ACT and the College Board. They were adopted by the Georgia State Board of Education in July 2010, and Georgia educators have been training on the standards since March of 2011. The Common Core Georgia Performance Standards, or CCGPS, are being implemented in classrooms this fall, however, parents and students should not expect a big change in curriculum. “In Georgia for the past several years, we’ve had Georgia Performance Standards which are similar to Common Core so it’s not as big as a change as in some states that haven’t had standards in place,” said Matt Cardoza, director of communications for the Georgia Department of Education. Georgia Performance Standards came into use in 2004 and were established to provide clear expectations for assessment, instruction and student work. Cardoza said that some learning standards have shifted from one grade level to another, but the most noticeable change is there will be more indepth focus into topics. Students will be required to do more critical thinking and analysis. Some examples of changes in curriculum will be the Pythagorean Theorem being taught in eighth grade instead of ninth, and fourth graders now learning to add and subtract fractions, which was previously taught in fifth grade. Parents and students expect changes in the rigorousness of the curriculum, according to Jackson County School System officials. April Howard is the Director of Elementary Support and Rise Hawley is the Director of Secondary Support. In English language arts, the common core standards are broken down into the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening and language. In reading, the common core standards will focus on comprehension and ensuring students gain more from what they read. Students’ writings will

focus on several different types of writing including argumentative and informative pieces, narrative works and research projects. The area of speaking and listening will emphasize effective communication practices. Lastly, the focus of language will be in writing and speaking, as well as advancing students’ vocabularies. The other subject area of the CCGPS is mathematics which is broken down into conceptual development, fluency with core skills and meaningful learning. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade will build their foundation of numbers and mathematical operations, which includes fractions and decimals. Those in grades sixth through eighth will begin learning algebra, geometry, probabilities and statistics. High school students will focus on the practical application of mathematics, such as is done by college students or those with a career. “You have to look at skills necessary to be successful after high school. These are critical skills to being successful after high school, whether a student goes to college or gets a job,” said Cardoza. Another change as part of CCGPS will be the phasing out of the High School Graduation Tests. Instead, students must pass all required courses and End of Course Tests (EOCTs) will count for 20 percent of a student’s final grade. “We are excited about the phasing out of the GHSGT. Our students traditionally perform better on the EOCT which is an assessment that they take immediately upon completion of the course. In contrast, the GHSGT has been given in the junior year and is cumulative in that it covers content students have studied in grades 9-11,” said Chanda Palmer, Assistant Principal for Instruction at East Jackson Comprehensive High School.. Beginning next fall, incoming high school freshman will choose a career pathway. There will be 17 possible career pathways including Agriculture, Finance, Health Science and Public Safety. “This will help them see more relevance between what they are learning in high school to what they will see in college or future career,” said Cardoza. In addition to preparing students for life after high school, the Common Core State Standards will make it easier for students moving from one school to another, even if that move is across the country. According to Cardoza, a student should be able to recognize the same learning standards no matter where they attend school, as long as they are within a state practicing the common core standards.

CMYK

FORUM PAGE 6A | THURSDAY, AUGUST 30, 2012

Now it’s bubbles, ducktails instead of grandma’s cap I am getting close to being a half-century away from my kindergarten days, but in some crazy way, I can still remember the songs and activities. When it was time for a story, our teacher would make us sit “Indian-style” in the story area. The politically correct police have probably just issued a warrant for my arrest, but that’s what we called it. It involved sitting with our knees bent and our legs under each other. I can remember that we used to do a little exercise to settle us down. “Grandmother’s glasses, Grandmother’s cap. She folds her hands and places them quietly in her lap,” we would say, making circles of our thumb and index finger to create the glasses and a two-handed circle on our heads for the cap. First of all, the politically correct crowd will go nuts over that. It certainly qualifies as some kind of age discrimination and, of course, no woman today wants to be called “grandmother.” They all seem to prefer the younger sounding “Nana.” In addition, I guess few grandmothers in my era actually wore caps. We also did a little fun thing about the Noble Duke of York. “The Noble Duke of York, he had 10,000 men. He marched them up the hill and then he marched them down again. And when you’re up, you’re up. And when you’re down, you’re down. And when you’re only halfway up, you’re neither up or down.” This was a chair-sitting activity. When you said up, you stood up, and so forth. The Duke of York today is Queen Elizabeth II’s second son, Andrew. To the best of my knowledge, he doesn’t have 10,000 men. He also doesn’t have a wife. That was Sarah, Duchess of York and spokesmodel for a weight loss outfit. She marched out the door in 1992. According to the British press, she may not have had 10,000 men, but she apparently had more than one. That’s enough about that.

Harris Blackwood Additionally, don’t confuse the Duke of York with the more popular Duke of Earl, which would be Gene Chandler, who was looking for a Duchess to walk through his Dukedom. To the best of our knowledge, Gene Chandler’s Dukedom was not the community called Dukedom that straddles the line between Graves County, Ky., and Weakley County, Tenn. Now back to our original story. Recently, I was at the Langston Chapel Elementary School in Statesboro. I saw a group of kindergarteners and learned something knew. Anybody who has ever taught a group of kindergarteners knows that keeping them quiet and not touching each other, the walls or anything else is a challenge. That’s where bubbles and ducktails come in. Some really smart teacher somewhere came up with this unique idea. I asked some friends who have recent kindergarteners and they had never heard of them. Let me clue you in: Bubbles involves puckering up your lips and filling your cheeks full of air to create make-believe bubbles. On the other hand — or really both hands — ducktails require putting your hands behind your back and creating little tail feathers of a duck with your fingers. If your cheeks are bubbles and your hands are ducktails, you are unlikely to be talking or touching anything. For now, I think the whole idea is great. A half century from now the politically correct will find they were offending either bubbles or ducks. Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appear weekly.

GOVERNMENT CONTACTS U.S. Rep Rob Woodall, 1725 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515, 202-2254272; 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville, GA 30045, 770-232-3005; woodall. house.gov. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, 416 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202224-3521; 100 Galleria Parkway, Suite 1340, Atlanta, GA 30339, 770763-9090; chambliss. senate.gov Sen. Johnny Isakson, 120 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-

3643; One Overton Park, 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Suite 970, Atlanta, GA 30339, 770-661-0999; isakson.senate.gov District 45 Sen. Renee Unterman, P. O. Box 508, Buford, 30518, 770-9451887; renee.unterman@ senate.ga.gov District 47 Sen. Frank Ginn, P. O. Box 1136, Danielsville, 30633; 706680-4466; frankginn@ senate.ga.gov District 49 Sen. Butch Miller, 2420 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, 30504, 678-989-5301; butch.miller@senate. ga.gov

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Orphaned calf captures hearts It was a sweet sight, no doubt. My heart is always drawn to God’s animal creatures, especially those who have found themselves abandoned. Nicole and I were working out in her basement one afternoon when Rodney stomped down the stairs and ambled in. “I got a pen,” he said to her. “Where do you want me to set it up?” They made a commotion about exactly where to put it in the yard — somewhere near the pasture, she suggested — then Rodney hurried off. I heard enough to know what was going on — a baby calf had lost his mama and someone was going to have to bottle feed him. Nicole’s boys had either volunteered or been volunteered. Rodney had been down and sick for a few days, so his hired help had gone over to our farm — several miles from Rodney’s farm — to check on the black Angus there and discovered the baby’s mama dead, gone, he figured, for two or three days. The baby had kept himself

Ronda Rich alive by, as Rodney put it, “stealin’ milk from four other mamas.” Rodney and his friend, the preacher, set up the pen and unloaded the calf that Rodney had roped up with his belt and set down in the floorboard of his truck to bring him back. As we finished our workout, we looked out the glass doors to see the preacher, Pastor Joe, gently teaching the youngest boy, Nix, how to feed a bottle to a calf. I thought back to the calf I had raised when his mama died. He was a half-breed, Daddy said. Somehow a Black Angus bull had meandered over from another pasture and bred with one of our red and white Herefords. The result was an enormous calf so big that his mama could not bear him. The vet performed a Cesarean, delivered the

calf then watched over the mama for a couple of days until she died. “If you’ll take responsibility for feeding that calf, I’ll give him to you,” Daddy said. I was 11 and raised to be responsible so I never had to be reminded to mix the formula in the big bottle then hurry out to feed him before school, then again when I returned. I called him Sir Lancelot, and he followed me like a devoted dog. Much better than Dixie Dew, for sure. That day at Nicole’s, seven kids climbed on top of the pen and watched the scared young animal. Bree, one of the 3-year-old twins, had thoughtfully brought a bib for the bottlegiving. They were so excited, clapping their hands in delight then scrambling down to touch him. “How old is he?” I asked. “About a week?” I had a new one, 6 days old, at my house and they looked to be the same size. Rodney nodded. “Sommers around there.” “How did you figure out which calf was the orphan?” I asked. I knew the

answer, though. I had just seen an episode of the old black and white western, “The Rifleman.” A mama cow will always find her baby when it’s time to feed. It had taken Rodney a couple of hours of isolating the cows before they had all paired up and left the orphan out in the cold. As the glossy black one ran around the pen and the children cheered, I shook my head. “That poor thing has no idea that he’s just become part of a circus.” Oh, but how they loved him from the beginning. He, I knew from my own experience, would soon love them, too. They would all be devoted to each other. “You don’t just have a calf to raise,” I said to Nicole as I was leaving. “You’ve got a cow for life, to live in your yard. Those kids will never let him go.” I can’t think of a sweeter gift, either. For any of them. Ronda Rich is the bestselling author of several books. Sign up for her newsletter at www.ronda rich.com. Her column appears weeklly.

Silence isn’t golden at the drive-thru When I was a child, I spoke as a child, and spoke, and spoke, and spoke, and spoke some more. But when I became a man — about three years ago — I put away my childish penchant toward loquaciousness, unless, of course, there was something I really wanted to talk about. That not said, when I woke up Saturday morn and tried to utter a simple “Good Morning” to my wife, and nothing came out of my mouth, I was unfazed. I had been battling a cold, or perhaps allergies, and apparently had developed a case of laryngitis. When I tried to say something, it came out as little more than a whisper. With nothing requiring verbosity on my agenda that day, again, I thought little of it. So, I went about my errands of the day – mainly puttering around the house. My wife, though, had a full plate, and left around noon, leaving me with some children to tend to for most of the evening. It wasn’t an issue until: “Daddy, we’re hungry. What can you cook us?” Being that their mother

Len Robbins was gone, and everyone knows you must be able to speak to cook, and their mother was gone — “Nothing,” I scribbled on a napkin. “How about Dairy Queen?” Cheers all around for Dad! Since it was a Saturday, I wasn’t wearing shoes, which prompted a trip to the drive-thru. The boys told me their orders, two kids’ chicken strip meals. I then turned to repeat the order, opened my mouth, and ... nothing. Oh, yeah, I can’t talk. So I pulled my vehicle up a little, rolled down the back window, and motioned for the boys to make their own orders. “I’ll have a 6-piece chicken strip meal, a hamburger with nothing but ketchup, two Oreo Blizzards, one of those sundaes with M&Ms on it, covered

in hot chocolate, a large Mountain Dew mixed with a little Cherry Coke, and a Happy Meal with a cool toy, not one that breaks real easy.” Gesturing frantically didn’t stop that order, or the next one. When we returned home, I ended up eating most of what they didn’t eat. Then after they left to play at a friend’s house, the phone rang. Dumb instinct again reared its dumb head. My hearty “hello” didn’t register a decibel. Oddly, there was no response to my inaudible greeting. Then, finally, “Hello, anyone there?” I tried to scream “hello” again. “Hello? I think I’ve reached Len’s answering machine,” said an old college friend on the line. “I didn’t hear a beep, but if this is Len’s answering machine, I’m calling because I have a free Masters ticket for next year and wanted to see if he wanted to go. It’s for Thursday. Can’t believe I got them either. Anyway, call me back in an hour or two, because if I don’t hear from you, I’m going to have

Publisher Dennis L. Stockton

P.O. Box 430 Hoschton, GA 30548 www.clickthepaper.com

General Manager Norman Baggs Editor LeAnne Akin

to take my brother-in-law instead.” He hung up. I fell down. When I got back on my feet, I called him. My plan was to scream “yes” very loudly and maybe he’d hear me. No dice. He thought the heavy breathing on the other line was a pervert and hung up. I tried to text him from my cell phone, but he had called from a land line that didn’t accept texts. I emailed to no avail. Suddenly, my “unfazed” approach to my condition had become “fazed.” I became seriously concerned about my ability to function if this laryngitis wasn’t temporary. The next morning, uttering a simple “Good Morning” to my wife brought a little more substance to my voice, relief, and a deeper appreciation for the spoken word. Perhaps I should try to learn a little more sign language than only vulgar insults —just in case. Len Robbins is editor and publisher of the Clinch County News in Homerville. His column appears weekly.

CMYK The Paperâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;| Thursday, August 30, 2012

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Reason #7: Our Innovation We opened our state-of-the-art Ronnie Green Heart Center 10 years ago. As we look back at a decade of healing hearts at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), there are many reasons to celebrate. Reasons, like the innovative technology that allows us to offer the latest treatments in cardiovascular care including:

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sports

Online: Visit ClickThePaper.com for up-to-date scores of area high school softball, volleyball and football

Hawks’ cross country boys finish in first

SECTION B | THURSDAY, AUGUST 30, 2012

Youngsters hit the big leagues Why little league football ain’t so little anymore By Latrice williams lwilliams@clickthepaper.com Jefferson Park Director Colton Green has been involved with youth athletics for a number of years, and has had the opportunity to see little league football flourish into a mega sport that youngsters have so much passion for. Similarly to the National Football League, little league football has become more competitive, and Green, who is also the commissioner of the North Georgia Youth Football Association, says that sports had catapulted past what used to be America’s favorite sport. “The game has changed tremendously in the last five years, much less the last 25 years. It has always been competitive to a degree but football at the recreational level in the State of Georgia [it] is viewed as a ‘feeder’ for each park’s high school,” said Green. “If you look at the NGYFA, it is set up on the GHSA

model where every park has clear district lines and all players are held accountable to participate where they live or attend school.” “The level of play has climbed considerably in the last five years. The X’s and O’x Green change as the game does on a national level, however, the sport has grown to a nearly a five-month season and many parks offer flag versions in the spring. It has undoubtedly leaped baseball in terms of being America’s pastime,” said Green. Not only have changes been made on the field, but the level of education amongst the coaches has grown tremendously. Programs have been put in place in order to help instructors teach the game in a way that is more safe and effec-

tive. “The NFL has made tremendous strides in investing in the next generation of athletes and coaches. Their arm is USA Football. [You can visit usafootbal.com for more information],” said Green. One common concern among all sports is injuries, but luckily, the athletes at this age are not undergoing traumatic wounds that we see on the high school, collegiate or professional level. “The injuries that occur at this level are the freak accident. They may land awkward on their arm, but it’s very rare that a concussion occurs,” said Green. Some of the world’s most greatest athletes have been training in their respective sport since they were kids, and have years of experience and talent that can only come with a lot of hard work and dedication. Football is a sport that teaches athletes to be prepared for lessons on and off the field, and can have a very positive effect if taught early on.

“The benefits of jumping into football early far outweigh any potential attrition associated with early participation. While most recreational sports aren’t ‘lifetime sports’ (the way that tennis, golf and swimming are), they still do a tremendous job of acclimating kids socially and instilling many of the values that they must learn before reaching adulthood. Some of those values are perseverance, teamwork and the fact that hard work will not hurt you,” said Green. “Football is the ultimate team sport in that it takes 11 players to accomplish the goal. In every other sport, a dominant athlete can overcome the weakness of others. In football, a dominant athlete still needs his teammates. The social affiliation of football is powerful… game jerseys on Fridays…pushing yourself to the brink with a group of other boys and knowing that you can count on each other,” said Green. Just like Jackson County Comprehensive and Jefferson High School,

Sportography, LLC For the Paper

The Jefferson League 7U team finished last year as the Super Bowl runner-up. This squad has developed a winning tradition and were the South Conference Champions 2009, 2009 and 2010.

the Jefferson Recreation League has developed a few rivalries, and the war between the two is always a must see matchup. “When they get to 10, 11 and 12 years old they begin to understand the actual dynamics of a rivalry. This year’s 12U group is focused on Union and Chestatee. This year’s 11U group is focused on Rabun. This year’s 10U group is focused on Jackson,” said Green. “Any consistently strong park or school always attracts rivals because people enjoy playing well ran and competitive teams. Some of our rivals are Commerce, Jackson County, Dawson County, Union County and Rabun County. I may not speak for everyone but a loss to any of those other than Jackson is tough. A loss to Jackson is unlike anything else,” said Green. The Jefferson leagues will compete in eight games each this season. Check out jeffersonrec.com for information including coaches, schedules and more.

Sportography, LLC For the Paper

The Jefferson 10U team were South Conference and Super Bowl two years ago.

Community supportive of Owen’s Family Fun Day By Latrice Williams lwilliams@clickthepaper. com

and others joined in on the action for a great cause. The Newmans are fortunate enough to be given another opportunity to Cancer is known to be a receive support for Owen very aggressive disease, and near the end of Septemmillions of Americans have ber. been fighting back through “We have received an events such as the Susan Koenormous amount of supmen Cure for Cancer Race port from everyone in Jefand Jimmy V Week. The famferson. Owen’s preschool ily of Owen Newman is fortuis also hosting a fall festival nate enough to have a large w/ a 5K trail race on 9/23,” group of supporters behind said Newman. them in their son’s battle with Juanfra DeVillena, a lymphoblastic lymphoma. volunteer at the family “I am part of a local soccer fun day event, said she club, which has a large soccer was happy to be a part of family. Without asking, the making a difference and whole soccer family wanted was very pleased with the to help out. As a whole, the enoutpour of generosity. tire Jefferson soccer commu“We are very proud of nity stepped up,” said John this soccer community. Newman, Owen’s father. Everyone pulled together Childrenshospital.org and made this fundraiser defines lymphoblastic lyma great event for a wonderphoma as “a type of nonful cause – to help Owen Hodgkin lymphoma, a canNewman in his victorious cer in the lymphatic system. fight against cancer,” said The lymphatic system is part DeVillena. of the immune system, and “We want to thank every functions to fight disease and Katrina Parnell For The Paper single one of our voluninfections. Most cases of lymphoblastic lymphoma involve The University of Georgia Men’s Soccer Club captain Zach Cowart dominating the ball between two Saturn FC teers who put a lot of effort to make this event successthe T-cells in the thymus, and players during Saturday’s Owen Soccer Cup exhibition games. ful, the local vendors for usually become evident with their support, the Jeffera mass in the chest and swolson Parks & Rec Departlen lymph nodes.” determined to be cancer. The first month of Owen’s Family Fun Day Event was hosted “Owen has T-cell which affects his immune treatment focused on shrinking the enlarged Aug. 25 at the Jefferson Parks and Recreation ment for the continue commitment to soccer system,” said John Newman. “Owen had an thymus/mass. It worked great, as it was re- Fields. The University of Georgia men’s soc- and helping this community and to everyone enlarged thymus which was biopsied and duced by 93 percent.” cer team, Jefferson Adult City League team who was able to attend,” said DeVillena.

local racing

local baseball

local football

Gresham welcomes CRA Super Late Race

Braves finish season against Norfolk

Area teams gear up for season openers

Gresham Motor Sports Park will be the site for the JEGS 100 CRA Super Late Model on Sept. 15. Opening ceremonies will start at 7:30 p.m. Kids 12 and under will receive free entry. Pit passes start at $35, while seniors 55 and up, along with military employees can enjoy a price of $20. General admission for adults is $25. Some of the night’s featured events will include Mini Stock, Outlaw Late Models, and Sportsman/Renegades. For more information, check out greshammotorsportspark.com.

The Gwinnett Braves will wrap up their four-game home stand against the Pawtucket Red Sox tonight at 5:05 p.m. The Braves will wrap up their season away against the Norfolk Tide. Gwinnett went 1-3 against the Tide earlier this month. The Braves are currently standing last in the International South League. Gwinnett has seen stars such as Todd Redmond and Tommy Hanson at the mound this year, as well as other Atlanta Braves stars such as Tyler Pastornicky.

Jackson County Comprehensive High School will open the season with a home game against Winder-Barrow at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 31. The Dragons of Jefferson High School will make their debut in the 8AA in a regular season show down when they travel to Commerce on Aug. 31. Commerce is a not one of the new opponents for the Dragons in the re-aligned conference. Show time is set for 7:30. Mill Creek High School will play host to Dacula at 7:30 p.m. this Friday.

CMYK 10A

Sports

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

Hawks finish first at Stage Races in Athens

Local High School Sports Calendar Softball The Lady Hawks will have a home match against West Forsyth High School on Aug. 29 at home. MCHS will travel to Kennesaw to take on Kennesaw Mountain on Sept. 4 at 5:55 p.m. Jefferson High School compete in an away match against Social Circle today at 5 p.m. The Panthers will be in action today at Hart County at 6:45 p.m.

Volleyball MCHS will compete against Pope at 5 p.m. and Hillgrove High School at 6 p.m. today at Pope. JHS has matches set for 5, 6, and 7 p.m. at Tallulah Falls today. The Panthers have two matches set at Lakeview Academy starting at 6 and 7 p.m. at Lakeview.

For the Paper

The Mill Creek High School cross country team celebrates their first-place finish at the Peachtree Ridge/Walton Stage Races held at River Green in Duluth. Peachtree Ridge served as host. Other area schools competed in the Northeast Georgia Cross County Championships was hosted on the Athens Christian Campus.

Eric Westog led the way for the Mill Creek High School boys’ cross country team, which set the tone early this season at the Stage Races hosted by Peachtree Ridge.

For the Paper

The Mill High School boys cross country team will look to compete at the Berry Invitational on Sept. 8.

Name

Time

E.Westog Tippins Hope Woodrome J.Westog LoCicero Arceneaux

9:53 10:12 10:12 10:14 10:34 10:47 10:55

Discover Mills Mall welcomes indoor sports facility in September By Latrice Williams lwilliams@clickthepaper. com The Discover Mills Mall in Lawrenceville is known for high-end stores such as Neiman Marcus and Kenneth Cole, but now the mall is in the process of adding another main attraction. The mall will be launching AirSport, a sports facility that should draw a lot of attention from an enthusiastic sports area. “Discover Mills is a great location for AirSport’s first location. We think AirSport will appeal to families and individuals of all ages,” said Paul Skowronski, co-founder of AirSport. “My family and I designed the concept. My entire family plays and loves nearly every sport. My mom came up with our name, AirSport. My brother heads our technology and IT department. My wife is our primary PR, Marketing and Social Media specialist. My entire family had helped during our buildout. So AirSport is definitely a family business, and has been a team effort,” said Skowronski.

The facility will feature a variety of sports play for everyone, and looks to be a god fit for those who are not professional athletes, and looks to be a good fit for those who enjoy club sports or are just interested in a fun way to spend time with friends and/or family. It will be conveniently open every day, giving everyone an opportunity to experience the new site for sports entertainment. “We offer AirSport, the sport of airsoft, seven days a week. AirSport combines the best of airsoft, flag football, and team handball. We also host private events for birthday parties, church group events, corporate outings, and school field trips. For private events, we host a vast variety of indoor sports and games including indoor soccer, dodgeball, flag football and more. For private events guests of all ages are welcome. Players ages 10 and up can play AirSport,” said Skowronski. AirSport will be opening in September and will be located at entrance 6. Visit PlayAirSport.com for more information.

“My family and I designed the concept. My entire family had helped during our buildout. So AirSport is definitely a family business, and has been a team effort.” Paul Skowronski

My outlook on suspense and anticipation of the 2012 football season Latrice Williams lwilliams@clickthepaper. com As a newcomer to the area, I am not very familiar with any of these teams, but I am very excited about this football season. There is nothing like football in the South and this area seems to be heavily involved in high school athletics, which gives me the opportunity to meet and greet my readers. With the season opening just one day away, the suspense is building and I am very excited to see to see Jefferson, Mill Creek and Jackson County Comprehensive High School. I must say that it was not easy to give my opinion on these teams as I have yet to see each of them play in a regular season, but from what I have gathered, this season looks to be a great one. For the Dragons of Jefferson High School, I hope to see this team make a deep run in the playoffs. It’s no secret that they are undersized but they have a lot of talent. It’s never an easy thing to sweep through the regular season only to be defeated in the first round of the playoffs. My hope is to see this squad

carry the momentum of the at Mill Creek will be a very regular season into the post- hostile environment to comseason. pete in, and I want to witness The first time I pulled into that. Mill Creek High I love it when School, I couldn’t new coaches wait to get out of come in to turn my car to see their things around in facilities. It is very a positive way. impressive to see There is noththe amount of time ing like new beand money the ginnings, and I boosters and parcan’t wait to see ents have put into what the future this high school; holds for the Latrice there are some colPanthers. williams legiate programs It may seem Sports Editor that have trouble like Jackson getting donors. County ComTheir scrimprehensive mage game was High School is filled with so many people in a tough spot, but I really that it could have been mis- think that Head Coach Benji taken for a regular season Harrison is serious about game. If their game day at- getting this program turned tendance continues to grow, around. it is safe to say that playing

CMYK

FEATURES PAGE 11A | THURSDAY, AUGUST 30, 2012

Open your home to a student and let change begin with your family Have you ever felt like you’re missing out on a lot of life’s possible adventures? Same stuff, different day? Do you wish you could travel the world and make a difference in someone’s life, but you can’t due to financial, family or health issues? Why don’t you have the mission trip come to you? The Council on Farah International EduBohannon cational Exchange Columnist (CIEE), a non-profit, non-governmental program is enthusiastically searching for host families in Jackson, Barrow and Walton counties. The organization will also be seeking additional host families in January from Gwinnett. This program allows families to open their hearts and homes to international high school students. As a CIEE host family, you will offer the student the opportunity to see America — and you will discover America in a new way through the student’s eyes. Both you and the student will learn about each other’s cultures, food, language and more. It also offers a valuable and life-changing experience that will leave both parties satisfied and eager for more. CIEE was discovered in 1995 as a quality five to 10 month program for international students. The program has grown tremendously, starting out with only a meager handful of students. As of today, more than 55 nationalities are represented in a group of more than 1,300 students each year. Students arrive in August and stay for either a semester or for one full academic year. There is a small group that starts in January as well. Students are well prepped for their journey as an American due to a hefty orientation program and are then sent to assigned host families for fun, education and an amazing life experience. If you’re wondering, you aren’t completely alone in this journey. Students receive supervision by CIEE local coordinators who serve as another “line of pastoral care.” They also are in charge of planning fun and educational activities for all CIEE students in his or her respective area. The CIEE Office Support Team is also available 24 hours a day for students and families. Never hesitate to call for help, questions, concerns or even advice. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for both you and the students. Please consider hosting an international exchange student. Jackson, Barrow and Walton counties are perfect areas for hosting. Tonya Delozier represented the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) at a booth at the recent Turbo Turtle Trek at Crow’s Lake. Children enjoyed painting watercolor artwork as Delozier and other volunteers shared information about the need for host families. For information abtou the need for local families, contact Tonya Delozier at 404-556-6767 or tcdelozier@aol.com For more information, visit www.ciee. org. Farah Bohannon is a freelance writer living in Winder. She loves to utilize her skills to write inspiring stories. Reach her at farah.bohannon@gmail.com

For The Paper

Tri-County Members communicating with stations across the country. Left to right, Nat Christman, Warren Walker standing by as relief operators, Al Meiger, Roger Gibson, Mark Allman on the radios.

Celebrating Braselton’s 96th birthday For The Paper The Tri-County Amateur Radio Club held an on-air special event station on Aug. 11 to recognize the Town of Braselton’s 96th anniversary. The use of the Special event call sign (W4B) was allowed by the FCC and coordinated by the Western Carolina Amateur Radio Society VEC for this occasion. Any amateur radio operator who contacted the special event station was eligible to receive a commemorative certificate featuring the town hall. Of the 222 stations that made contacts, there were 32 states and four countries represented. Contacts were made from Dominican Republic to Canada and from Trinidad to Hawaii. “For our very first special event that is a great result,” said Charles Locke, W4CLE, current club president. The Town of Braselton was founded in August of 1916 and will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in just four years. For The Paper

2012 Braselton Anniversary Special Event Certificate; at left, Terry Jones, control operator for the event, and Mike Gee, who hosted the event at his home radio station, log the contacts made by the operators. “The town has been very supportive of the club and amateur radio,” said past president, Paul “Buddy” Cheek. “This was a way for us to recognize the town, and the certificate gives the town visibility across the country.” Tri-County Amateur Radio Club has been in existence for just four years and serves amateur operators in the West Jackson, North Barrow and South Hall counties. The club has an active membership, many of whom serve on Community Emergency Re-

Community happenings Free GED preparation is available through Lanier Technical College’s Jefferson Branch. The Jackson County Adult Education Center is now accepting new and returning students. Class meets at the Annex of First Baptist Church of Jefferson from 5-9 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Call David Butler at 770-601-1240. sss Registration day for fall classes at the Hoschton Heritage Arts Center, located at 74 White St., in Hoschton, will be from 2-7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 6. To learn more, visit www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil.com, 706654-2693 or email info@HoschtonHeritageArtsCouncil.com sss Leftover Pets offers low cost spay/ neuter surgeries are available at the clinic at 610 Barrow Park Drive in Winder. September dates are the 3, 4, 6, 13, 14, 17, 18, 21, 24, 25, 27 and 28. Prices are $75 for a female dog over 25 pounds, $60 for a female dog up to 25 pounds, $50 for a male dog or for a female cat and $30 for a male cat. All surgery prices include a free rabies vaccination. Visit http://www. leftoverpets.org. Appointments are required and must be made by calling 800-978-5226. sss

Tonya Delozier is one of the area representatives working with the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), a non-profit, non-governmental program which is searching for host families.

Author H. Chris Barber will host a book-signing event from 1-3 p.m. on Sept. 8 at Swirlin Twirlin Frozen Yogurt, located at 5900 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch. Barber, a resident of Hoschton, will be available to sign copies of his book, Shadow: A Cat for All Seasons. sss

The Friends of the Braselton-West Jackson Library will welcome Lisa Martin as the featured speaker/entertainer for the Sept. 12 Lunch and Learn program. She is a well known in the area with her renditions of Patsy Kline and other country and western songs. The Friends will be serving their famous homemade soup and salad luncheon for $6 per person. The Lunch and Learn Programs are held on the lower level of the Braselton Municipal Building starting at 11:30 a.m. For reservations, call Judee McMurdo at 706-654-4822. sss The Jackson County Citizen Police Academy will be conducted this fall by retired State Police Academy director Andy Garrison beginning Sept. 11. The class meets from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday for 10 weeks. The $40 tuition will cover the Academy logo shirt and graduation banquet. For an application, contact Garrison at 706-369-1830 or AndyG171@windstream.net sss The Jackson County Historical Society annual members’ picnic will be held in the Mill building at Sell Mill Park at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 13. Those interested in joining the Historical Society are welcome to attend. Call Tina Harris at 706-207-6889. sss The Georgia Piedmont Arts Center (GPAC), located in Auburn, will present the “Harvest of Art” festival on the lawn at the GPAC art cottage in downtown Auburn on Saturday, Sept. 8. Fine art and fine craft artisans, free children’s art activity, free mini-art lessons for adults. Music and food. Visit www.GeorgiaPiedmontArtsCenter.com

sponse Teams (CERT). Others participate in Skywarn as weather spotters and are prepared to report severe conditions to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City. Participating in the event as station operators were Mark Allman, Paul (Buddy) Cheek, Nat Christman, Bruce Davis, Mike Gee, Roger Gibson, Terry Jones, Charles Locke, Al Meiger, Bob Richardson and Warren Walker.

or call Kathleen Gill at 404-202-3044. sss The fall class of the Braselton Junior Master Gardener program will begin on Saturday, Sept. 8, and continue on the fourth and second Saturdays of September, October and November at the Braselton-West Jackson Library. Registration forms are available at the library, or by e-mailing Dave Rusk at dhrusk@msn.com. The registration fee for new students is $15. Students aged 8-13 are eligible to participate. sss The Banks County Historical Society and the Georgia Society Order of Confederate Rose are sponsoring at Historic Walking Tour of Homer. It will begin at the Historic Courthouse in downtown Homer and will end at the historic jail with refreshments. The courthouse and jail will be open from 1-3 p.m. This event is part of the Banks County Holiday Festival taking place Sept. 8-9. Call 706-654-1088 or visit www.bankscountyhistoricalsociety.org sss The Crawford W. Long Museum and Jefferson Public Library are partnering to bring a free Lunch and Learn opportunity on Thursday, Sept. 13. The event will be held at the Jefferson Public Library from 11:30 a.m. to to 1 p.m. with the program beginning at noon. Laura Carter, retired Librarian of the Athens-Clarke County Heritage Room will be presenting “Digging Up Your Family Tree.” Bring lunch or pre-order a bag lunch of chicken salad sandwich, chips and tea for $5. Call the Museum at 706367-5307 to order lunch or confirm attendance no later than Tuesday, Sept. 11. Lunch can be pre-paid with a credit card by phone or stop by the Museum to pay with cash or check.

CMYK The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

12A

ENTERTAINMENT

Find some friends who aren’t tethered to Facebook Dear Margo: I am not a fan of Facebook, although I know that many people my age (58) use it to stay in touch with friends. I suppose you could call me a dinosaur, because I use the telephone and letters to stay in touch. Here is the problem: My husband and I have finally realized that when we entertain (which is often), some guests are taking photos in our home and posting them on Facebook. The other day, a friend walked in and just started to take pictures in our living room (I am in the process of painting and remodeling). I asked her to please not post anything on her Facebook page, and she became very cross that I had made that request. When we have parties, I’m busy hosting and never noticed all the photos that were being taken and subsequently posted on Facebook. My husband and I, while friendly, are also private. While I realize that what these people are doing is a form of flattery, we also feel

behavior. We all still have the choice of what to do with this world-changing technology. — Margo, stubbornly

Dear Margo our privacy is being violated by guests who do not ask permission to post photos they’ve taken in our home. Do we just have to accept this behavior as part of the way technology has changed the world? — Old-fashioned Dear Old: I think maybe you need new friends — or at the very least a little sign that says No Photos Allowed. For one thing, the intrusion is not just that guests are posting pictures of your house; they are also telling other people you may know that they weren’t invited. As for the friend who walked in, started snapping away and then was put out that you asked her to desist, well, see above about “new friends.” And no, I don’t think you have to accept this

Dear Margo: I’ve taught for 20 years and can retire in 12 years. I don’t know if I can go the distance. I don’t know whether to quit and try to find a less stressful job, or keep hoping. Instead of doing what is best for students, we are doing what is best for administrators: focusing on the tests. I used to have one classroom, and everyone did the same assignments, but I tweaked them for ability levels. Now I am planning for four different groups of students, and it takes a lot longer. It is near impossible to read the practice test to my ELL students, have a meaningful assignment for my gifted students who will finish the test 20 minutes early, make sure the students with the modified test are able to follow all of the notes and circle the right bubbles, and keep my ED student calm

because frustration is his trigger. Oh, and then there are the other students, and they all deserve a teacher, too. There are endless training days and extra duties, but there isn’t any money for lunch monitors. I go home in tears sometimes because I am overwhelmed. My husband has a decent job, and he says if I can hang in for four years it will really help with our two kids’ college funds and our retirement fund. Sometimes I wonder if I can make it four more days, much less four years. — Beleaguered Dear Be: You really are between a rock and a hard place. Of course, you are not alone, as many public schools are a mess. According to Marian Wilde, 16 other industrialized countries scored above the United States in science, and 23 scored above us in math. As for your mental state, only you know your limit. You actually sound like you care, so on that basis it would be beneficial for your

WORKING IT OUT

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

SOLUTION

students if you stayed. And the four years your husband suggests is not 12. Perhaps you should explore whether there’s a job available that’s tied to what you’ve been doing, such as administration or an educational consulting firm — or whether there’s a job available of any kind, because your second income is required. I’m not sure I’ve even come close to solving your problem, but I hope I’ve given you some ideas. — Margo, sympathetically Dear Margo: Maybe it’s just where I live, but it seems like everybody and his dog is now glucose intolerant, on a gluten-free diet or allergic to peanuts. When I was younger, I didn’t know anyone who had those restrictions. I don’t want to believe that my friends are faddists, but I really don’t know what to think. Why is this happening? — Glenda Dear Glen: Truly, I have wondered myself why these food situations are so prevalent today. It could very well

be the food supply or some element in the environment. There’s a fight right now about Monsanto, whose genetically modified feed is harmful, according to some scientists — not to mention that we have cows and chickens taking antibiotics and growth hormones. While I take these people at their word that they feel better and healthier eliminating certain things from their diets, I will say that some months ago, because of feeling bloated, I declared myself to be lactose intolerant (because that was a friend’s symptom) and stayed away from dairy. Then I forgot about my self-diagnosis and tried Greek yogurt, which I now eat every day. Just give your friends the benefit of the doubt. — Margo, individually Dear Margo is written by Margo Howard, Ann Landers’ daughter. All letters must be sent via the online form at www.creators.com/dear margo.

cmyk CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

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170-Notices ATTENTION CLASSIFIED CUSTOMERS The Times Classified Department asks that you verify and proof your classified ad(s) the first day that it is scheduled to print. If any corrections need to be made, please contact our department, Monday through Friday, before 3pm. The Times will not be held responsible for any issues that may arise after the first day of publication. classifieds@ gainesvilletimes.com 770-535-1199

Jobs 200 210-Adult Care: Help Wanted Gracemont Assisted Living is now hiring CNAs and Resident Aides. 4960 Jot Em Down Rd., Cumming, GA. 30041 770-887-2000 gracemontassistedliving.com

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235-Management Immediate Opening for Manager / Driver with a Local Trucking Company. Candidate MUST possess a Current Class A CDL license, be willing to learn and wanting to grow along with our company. If you are organized, energetic and interested in a management opportunity, call Jim Butler @ Mountain Milk Hauling, Inc. before 7 PM. 540-820-7882

240-Medical The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. is seeking qualified candidates for the following positions: Vascular Access Center Clinical Coordinator (RN w/1-2yrs related exp or hold a current RT (R) or RCIS lic. req’d and/or training. At least 3yrs clinical exp in Endovascular environment. At least 1 yr exp in a supervisory role) Vascular Surgery Gainessville Registrar (P/T 30 hrs) Business Office Gainesville Frt Off. Check Out (Coding exp req’d) Orthopaedics Gainesville Med. Receptionist (8am-5pm. Must speak English & Spanish. Rotating wkends & holidays) Gainesville Pediatrics Med Receptionist (8:30am-5pm Must speak Engish & Spanish. Rotating wkends & holidays) Gasinesville Pediatrics Medical Assistant (Back office float. Ortho. exp helpful) Orthopaedics Gainesville LPN or MA (Minimum one year exp. Bi-lingual a plus) General Surgery Gainesville Patient Service Coordinator OB/GYN Gainesville LPN or MA. Family Medicine Oakwood Registered Mammographer Registered CT Tech (all positions are PRN)

227-Education PIEDMONT COLLEGE Director of Career and Personal Counseling Piedmont College seeks applications for the position of Director of Career and Personal Counseling. Under the office of the Dean of Students, the Director of Career and Personal Counseling will be responsible for mental health counseling and career guidance for students on both campuses (Athens and Demorest). Requirements: Master’s degree in counseling-related field and at least five years of counseling experience required; certification or license in counseling related area preferred. Application materials should be sent in one email to: hrapplicant@piedmont.edu. No phone calls will be accepted. For more information on this position, please visit our website: http://www.piedmont.edu/pc/index. php/staff-openings. Piedmont College is an EOE/Affirmative Action Employer.

Find it. Buy it. Sell it. Automobiles Furniture Livestock Computers Jewelry Appliances Call and place your ad today in the Classifieds!

770-535-1199 or 1-800-395-5005

240-Medical Imaging Dept Gainesville PA/NP (one year exp req’d) General Surgery Gainesville NP/PA (Exp w/lasers, injecting Botox, Dysport, facial filler and other cosmetic procedures req’d. Part-time- one day per week) Laser & Aesthetics Oakwood All positions are full time unless noted. Full-time employees may be eligible for paid days off, health insurance and a generous retirement plan. Salary commensurate with experience. Previous medical office experience preferred. Spanish/English skills desirable. Interested candidates may submit resumes via fax to 770-535-7445 Attn: Employment E-mail to: HR@longstreet clinic.com or complete an application at 725 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., Suite 270, Gainesville, GA 30501. For additional info about the Longstreet Clinic., P.C., please visit our website: www.long streetclinic.com Gracemont Assisted Living is now hiring CNAs and Resident Aides. 4960 Jot Em Down Rd., Cumming, GA. 30041 770-887-2000 gracemontassistedliving.com GOLD CITY HEALTH & REHAB is looking to expand Nursing Team with dependable, knowledgeable, & efficient RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Apply in person at 222 Moores Dr., Dahlonega, GA. Fax resume to 706-864-4535 or email to: tammy.dixon@mmc1. net. MEDICAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATE (Part-time - Mon, Wed, Thurs, 8am to 6pm) Medical Office experience required. Must have experience with diagnosis, medical coding, case management, record retention and medical report writing. Please send resume and salary expectation to Jeanne Hanlin, jhanlin@watkinstotalhealthcare.com or fax 770-534-9553 NORTHEAST GEORGIA DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC Registered Nurse – Responsible for assisting cardiologist during procedures, preparing patients for cardiac procedures, and monitoring patients post treatment. Previous experience in cardiology is required. Qualified candidates fax resumes and salary requirements to Human Resources at 770-297-5025 or email careers@ngdc.com. Resumes without salary requirements will not be considered. No phone calls please. EOE.

245-Misc. Help Wanted ATTENTION: JOB SEEKERS Looking for a career or a career change? Tired of making minimum wage? New office in Braselton seeking CS Reps/ Display Techs. Permanent positions, advancement opportunities, scholarship program. Call today for Interview 770-868-0266 Lead Maintenance Mechanic (Building/Equipment) Performs skilled maintenance and repair of mechanical, electrical, HVAC and other physical structures. Performs preventative maintenance on equipment. Requirements: •Electrical background in AC and DC •Able to read & comprehend electrical & hydraulic diagrams, blueprints & troubleshooting charts •Knowledge of HVAC, plumbing and conveyor systems (belt and air drive) •Advanced knowledge of mechanical and facilities repair and maintenance •AS degree in Industrial Maintenance or similar field preferred •Able to work a flexible schedule, including one weekend day, if necessary NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE Fax or email resume: ACE HardwareRetail Support Center 1220 Palmour Dr Gainesville, GA 30501 FAX: 770-536-5394 Email: gainesvilleHR@ace hardware.com EOE: Background & Drug Screen required

245-Misc. Help Wanted CLEANING HELP Late afternoons. Dependable. Lv msg 770-532-0507

Looking for HOUSEKEEPER for Purina Plant DAY SHIFT - F/T Requirements: •Work in a Manufacturing Environment •Lift minimum of 50lbs •Teamwork Skills •Occasional Weekend Work. Apply in person at: 1125 Purina Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501

250Offices/Clerical Construction firm located near Helen looking for part time admin; 20 hrs per week. Needs someone who wants to work and be productive; not just pick up a check. Detailed oriented, responsible, computer skills Must be able to work independently and stay on task without constant supervision. Prior construction office exp a plus. Need dependable transportation, willing to travel to Atlanta area if needed. Compensation is $10 per hour. Email resume to advancedjob@gmail. com WANTED REO ASST Office duties, & asst w/ BTO’s. Send resume: 770-406-2389

255-Part Time Help Wanted USA TODAY INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR Business opportunities delivering USA TODAY in the Cleveland, Helen, Clarksville, and Cornelia areas. Must be available early morning hours Mon–Fri, have reliable transportation, and be able to pass a credit check. E-mail: jdmay@usatoday.com or leave contact info at 800-868-8885 x 2052.

265-Production

770-535-1199

280-Trades ELECTRICIANS Must have minimum 5ys verfiable exp. Tools, speak English & valid Driver’s Lic. Mon thru Fri, 9-4pm. 770-535-5544 INDUSTRIAL PAINTER needed for manufacturing co. located in Cumming, GA. 1st shift: Mon thru Fri, 6:30am to 4:30pm. Must have industrial wet spray experience. Overhead crane and forklift experience a plus. Please e-mail or fax resume to: Brenda Cochran, Human Resources 770-475-2336 fax. bcochran@blastec. com

285-Truck Drivers Dedicated Class A Drivers Needed •5,000+mi/wk, 3-man •Weekly Hometime or 2-3 weeks out •14 days out/7 home •$900-1000/wk avg •$1000 sign on bonus Exp. Driver 3mo exp •$3000 Sign On for Pre-Made Teams •Day one medical + Benefits Call 866-331-3335 www.drivecrst.com CDL-A & B DRIVERS- Local. Top Notch Personnel 770-297-7377 CLASS A-CDL DRIVERS needed 3yrs exp. Clean MVR. Tanker endorsed. Over the road. Gone 2 days at a time. Call for details 770-887-6117 Driver

CDL Drivers Needed Tuition Paid by Federal Grants or VA Benefits. 770-614-6022 or 1-877-GET-A-CDL Call and see if you Qualify in 5 minutes! dtruckschool.com P & E TRUCKING Pendergrass, GA is now accepting applications for CLASS A CDL DRIVER Must have min. 2 yrs OTR driving. Reefer knowledge a plus. Stay in the S.E. Call 706-693-2285

290-Warehouse

AXIOM STAFFING

Now Hiring •Welders •Assembly •Machine Oper. •Forklift Operators Please call or apply in person Axiom Staffing Group 5857 Spout Springs Rd., Suite 302 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 678-866-8800 ph 678-866-8120 fax Apply online at axiomstaffing.com

270-Professional The GMRC seeks FT Regional Planner with HP experience. Bachelor’s degree in HP or closely related field a must. Training in public sector preferred. Quality analytical and communication skills essential. Full job description at www.gmrc.ga.gov Drug screen required Salary DOQ Open until filled E-mail resumes to: adisharoon@gmrc.ga. gov

275-Restaurant Gracemont Assisted Living is now hiring Experienced COOKS. 4960 Jot Em Down Rd., Cumming, GA 30041. 770-887-2000 gracemontassistedliving.com

279-Technical

SERVICE TECHNICIAN Service/Start up Technicians. Experience required. Competitive pay & benefits. CONDITIONED AIR SYSTEMS 2410 Hilton Way, Gainesville, GA 30501 Fax: 770-535-8096

770-536-7509 TECHNICIAN Established independent dealer is looking for experienced, trained technicians to do field service work in the Metro Atlanta area. Prefer Canon copier/printer experience. Ideal candidates will have experience with hardware, software and networking. Benefits include medical, dental, disability and 401k. Fax resume to: 770-532-9604 or E-mail to: service@duplicatingproducts.com

LIFT DRIVERS & WAREHOUSE PERSONNEL Growing local company is looking for experienced Lift Drivers & Warehouse Personnel to fill positions on its 2nd & 3rd shifts. Great pay and excellent benefits, including, but not limited to health, dental & vision insurance, paid by company. Apply in person at 65 Crestridge Drive, Suwanee, GA 30024. Applications will be accepted from 8:30am-5pm, Mon-Fri. Company number 678-541-0234 NOW HIRING: Tool & Die, Maintenance, Electricians, Forklift Drivers, Mach. Operators Top Notch Personnel 770-297-7377

Stuff 300 310-Appliances WASHER & DRYER, Kenmore, Exc cond $250. 770-983-1507

326-Cemetery Lots For Sale 3 PLOTS, near 401B & 402B in Rose Garden area of Memorial Park. At half price..$2,000/ea. Linda 864-980-1773 or Lisa 770-287-8227 at Memorial Park.

345-Furniture COFFEE TABLE, Wrought Iron & Stone, 36” x 36”, good condition, $500. 770-531-7675 COUCH, LOVESEAT COFFEE TABLE, 2 END TABLES Dark brown fabric. Exc Cond. 6mos old. $600. 770-503-7047

365-Misc. For Sale Briggs & Stratton ENGINES (1) 12.5hp without Starter $125 (1) 14.5hp with Starter. $160

770-532-8632

Thursday, August 30, 2012

365-Misc. For Sale

435-Houses for Rent Unfurnished

610-RVs & Travel Trailers

GOLF CART E-Z-GO, Good Condition. Gas, w/ Knobby rear wheels. Asking $1200 678-316-7627

Flwry Br 3/3 w/bsmt $900mo + dep. No pets. 770-654-5154

PARK MODEL 2008 RV. 12 X 36, used very little. C/H/A Steve 770-861-8114

POWER WHEELCHAIR- Brand New! High end model with joy stick control. Paid: $4000; Sell for $999. 678-863-1834 TRACTORS (3) kept inside, KUBOTA-attachments, 1053.8 hrs, $16,500; NEW HOLLANDattachments, 430 hours, $19,500; 404-202-3072 TRAILERS (3)SLOAN KWIKLOAD, 4-wheel with spare tire, 3,000 lb winch, motor power 12vDC, pulley-load, hydraulic surge breaks, $3,500; TRAILER for carstractors, 4-wheel tandem, new, 99% finished, $4,200; KAR KADDY DEMCO, kept in building, spare tire, rock shield, $950. 404-202-3072

380-Pets & Supplies CHIHUAHUA-puppies CKC registered. Long & short hair; very small. 1st shots & worming. Parents on premises. $200 678-897-7332 or 770-900-5115 GREAT PYRENEES, (2) full blooded, 1 M, 1 F, 9 mos old, must sell, make reasonable offer. 770-967-1690 LAB RETRIEVER Puppies. AKC papers. $350. Yellows & blks. Shots/worm’d 404-786-2840 SHIH-TZU Pups. CKC. 8 wks old. YORKIE - 6wks old 1st shots & wormed. $200 & up. 706-491-2436 706-599-6068

385-Sporting Equipment

LK LANIER 9340 Ann Arbor Dr. off Browns Bridge Rd Gainesville Small house 3/1.5 Frplc, hrdwds, dock access. $850/mo. 404-405-1138 Oakwood 3/1. $795. 770-287-1456 www. callapartments.com OFF 365N Gainesville Lg ranch, 3/2, high eff., appls, $950. 770-654-9338

445-Lake Homes for Rent

460-Mobile Homes for Rent 129S. 2/2 Priv lot. $155 & 150/week. No pets 770-533-3029

3/2 RABBITTOWN $620 +dep. No pets. 770-714-1992 LARGE 3BR/2BA, $500. 770-530-8546 770-530-8541 LRG. 3/2 dbl wide, 1 ac, Lula, fireplc. rent/lease purchase. 770-365-9610 LULA -2BR/1BA 5158 Whitehall Rd. $500/mo, $500/dep 678-316-8253 N. HALL 3/2 DW very clean, no pets, 2 acs $700/mo; $400 dep. 770-536-3217

Starting at $85/wk 2&3BR, N. & S. Hall & Gainesville. 770-534-7596

465-Roommates Wanted FURNISHED ROOM w/cable. No utilty fees or dep. Free meals. $110/wk. 678-943-5143

Room For Rent N. Hall $375-400. Utils incld 770-576-0722

$599 Moves You In Affordable Prices! Spring Valley 1BR/1BA $600 up 2BR/2BA $675 up Brandon Place 2BR/2BA $675 Efficiency $475 Comfortable Living POOLS - GATED FREE WATER 678-779-2687 1 BR 1 BA Apt. Dwntwn G'ville $400-475. Call 404-643-8302 1 to 3BR‘s starting at $495. Move-in Specials! 770-536-0508 1&2br, quiet, energy efficient, Sardis Rd. 678-776-6432 1-2BR Oakwood, $535 & up. www.callapartments. com 770-287-1456 G’Ville- 1&2BR $550610. water/trash incld no pet 678-677-1898 OAKWOOD 2BR/2BA $575 + dep (770) 967-6100 Oakwood- 2/1.5,yrd, safe, C/H/A $605$645. 678-357-5044

425-Duplexes For Rent Oakwood- Pine Forest. 2BR/1BA $660 www.callapartments.c om. 770-287-1456

435-Houses for Rent Unfurnished $0 Application Fee 3BR/2BA Homes All Appliances incld. Starting at $729/mo No Rent until October 1st Call Sun Homes 888-246-2803 countrysidelakelanier. com EHO WAC 3-4 BR/2BA ranch w/ Bonus rm, hdwd flrs, granite, nice bkyd Flwry Brnch $1200/m. Owner/Agent. Harry Norman Realtors 678-361-7370

Homes & Real Estate 500 515-Condos for Sale Moving to Athens 2 CONDOS FOR SALE. ATHENS, GA 2BR/2BA, 1st floor, brick, close to campus, both are contracted until July 2013, great investment. 706-769-0413 706-255-5043 No agents

Recreation 600 605-Boats & Marine HARRIS 1999, 20 ft Pontoon, w/ 90HP Yamaha w/ min. hrs OB. Kept in closed dock. Exc. condition. Asking $5,500 678-316-7627 RANGER 1989- 17.5’ Bass Master Classic. Model# 363-V. Matching Ranger Trailer, new tires, canvas cover, 150 Johnson, trolling mtr, Engine just serviced. $4800/obo. 770-536-7811 Sell/Trade for Car or Truck- 15 ft, 50hp Yamaha mtr, trolling mtr, fish finder, vest, boat cvr, trailer. Lake Ready! $2,500. 770-718-7850; 770-869-0020

3BR Brick C/H/A $600; $400 dp. No pets. 678-614-7607 3BR/2BA Flwry BR. Like New! $900/mo. 770-540-2720

FLAT SCREEN TV Sony. 36in. w/glass door base cbnt. Plus DVD home theater- w/surround sound. All for $500. Cash. 770-781-5899

4BR/3BA in city on Blue Ridge Dr. Formal Liv & Dining rm, full bsmt. $1500/mo. 770-540-2356

3BR/2BA. N. Hall H.S. Wauka Mt. Clean, Pretty. New list. 770-718-8422

CITY, 2/2, all brick, nice n’hood, fenced bkyrd. $800; $400dp 770-983-7040 Flwry Br 3/3 w/bsmt $950mo + dep. No pets. 770-654-5154

710-Antique Cars/Trucks

CADILLAC 1969 Coupe DeVille, convt., white, $15,977 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

FORD 1934 and trailer, new, all-steel, Corvette 350 crate motor, fuel injection, 700 R-4 overdrive transmission, Heidt independent rear suspension, Mustang II independent front suspension, independent dual frontrear AC, $63,500

COACHMEN Santara 32 ft. Motor Home . Looks good inside and out. Runs perfect. $6,890.00 call 770-561-7891 FLAGSTAFF 2006 30’, 5th whl, 2 slideouts, slps 8, $14,300. 706-892-4327

MONACO EXECUTIVE 2002, custom built, 20,000 miles, new tires, 500 HP Cummins diesel, kept inside, washerdryer, dishwasher, loaded, Book value plus extras, $168,500. 404-202-3072 PINNACLE 1991 Airstream, 32 ft, dual A/C, 6.5 Onan gen., queen bed, full kitchen, 2 TVs, full bath, 454 Chevy engine, 37K miles, Exc Cond. All new tires. Asking $10,000 Must Sell. 678-316-7627 STARCRAFT 2001 Pop-up Camper, 25 ft, with king & queen beds, also a single, shower and toilet, stove to be used indoor or outside. Used very little, real clean, $3000 or will nego. 770-536-6762.

13A

745-Import Autos

INFINITY 2006 FX35, black, heated seats, mnrf, $18,555 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 MAXIMA 2009. 3.5SV Cold pkg, Bluetooth, Xenon headlights & technology pkg. 43k miles. $22,500. 770-983-2464 MAZDA 1991 Miata, Bulldog red, 100K miles, You or UGA student, great shape, hard top + soft top, $3295. 770-316-9810 or 770-490-1049

NISSAN 2008 Versa, silver, 5spd, local trade, $8,777 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

VOLVO 2000 S80, white, local trade, lthr, PW, PL, $5,555. MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

750-Motorcycles

404-202-3072

PLYMOUTH 1948 price reduced - needs work on transmission and AC, engine is 302 HO, $10,500, 404-202-3072

735-Autos for Sale CADILLAC 2001 DeVille DHS. 150k, 2nd owner. Tan/neut Nice Car. $3900/ obo. 770-533-1323

CADILLAC 2006 DTS, gold, bench seat, lthr, $12,999 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

CHEVY 2003 Corvette 50th Anniversary Edition. $26,500. Torch Red Excellent condition, low mileage. Corsa high-performance exhaust system. Rear window security apron. Road trip bra. 4 new Michelin run flat tires 4 winter wheel savers included. 678-571-9276 CHEVY 2008 Cobalt LT, 2DR, PW, air, wrecked in front, 68K miles, $1800. With parts to repair... $3000. 770-519-3123 770-534-8671

CHEVY 2010 Impala, gray, LS trim, local trade, $13,999 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 CHEVY 2010 Malibu, white w/ brown & tan int., 16K miles, rebuilt title, $9,500. 770-519-3123 770-534-8671

610-RVs & Travel Trailers

3-5 Bdrm Homes Charming Lakefront w/bsmt. $925-1550/ mo. 770-539-4400 3/2 house for rent; $850 month; Chicopee Woods School district. 770-654-5353

HONDA 2004 Recon 250 4 Wheeler, adult driven, very nice, $2300. 706-878-6025

REMODELED Lake front 2BR/1BA $650/ mo. 770-532-0811

Homes & Rentals 400 Oakwood 1 BR Apt. $450 + dep. No pets. 770-654-5154

705-All Terrain Vehicles

3/2 - Priv lot. $595 Butch Hodges Properties, Inc. 770-540-0417

MEN-ONLY. Fur Br, All priv + Xtras Oakwd. 770-530-1110

410-Apartments Unfurnished

Wheels 700

2BR/2BA Lrg Bonus rm, 1.5 car gar, $1300mo; $1300 dp. 404-819-0933

TREADMILL Like new. Asking $200 678-316-7627

BROWN EGGSFree Range $3/doz; RIDING MOWEROlens, Good cond. $425; GOLF CARTEZ Go, 3 wheel, 36volt system. $350. 706-693-4520

GOLF CART 2006 EZ GO. New batteries, ext roof, enclosure, head lights & tail lights, 4 seater. $2850. 678-617-5286

The Paper

DODGE 2011 Nitro, white, low miles, local trade, $24,555 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 FORD 2002 Thunderbird, Special Edition, 14K original miles, $45,000 cash. 706-301-9101

FLY SCOOTER150cc, Like New! Gets 70mpg. Top speed 55mph. $950/ obo 706-693-4520.

HARLEY 2003 Davidson Ultra Classic, 100th Anniversary centennial edition Silver & black, loaded RARE! Only 27,700 miles. Runs GREAT! SHARP! Call 770-654-5061

SUZUKI 2009 GS500F. Garage kept. 3500 Miles. Beautiful! $3995 obo 706-839-8299 WILL TRADE-1997 BMW R1100RT Sport Tourer: Red 42000 mi, Flairing, ABS, 3 hard bags valued at $3400-$3600 for any make Cruiser 750-1100CE of equal value. Call 770-967-6026

755-Sport-Utility Vehicles

JEEP 2006 Liberty, white, limited, 4x4, leather, $8,777. MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

765-Trucks

CHEVY 2007 Silverado 2500 HD. Ext Cab, brushguard, toolbox, bedliner, KC, CD & subs, chrome wheels, duals, 93k. Exc Cond. $15,200. 1 owner. 706-499-7470 CHEVY 2008 Silverado 1500 2wd crew cab - work truck. White with Dark Grey interior. 111800 miles - in good condition - just been detailed. Heavy duty bed liner. $9750. Call 770-538-5960 Gainesville area DODGE 1997 Ram, grey, manual, V8, short bed, exc. cond., 90K miles, $3600. 770-572-2263 FORD 1975 F-100. 302, S.B, Many new parts. $2400/obo. 678-936-7091 GMC 1995 Sonoma. Runs Great! Low mi. New tires, 30+mpg. $3850. 678-617-4062

770-Vans

MERCURY 1999 Grand Marquis, red, local trade, $5,333 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 MERCURY 2005 Grand Marquis, lthr, 31K miles, $8900 obo. 706-867-8623 706-974-5858

745-Import Autos HONDA 1993 Del Sol. Blk, 5spd, A/C, drives great, good mpg. $2500. 770-374-2129

HONDA 2007 Accord, white, SE, V6, PW, PL, $9,999 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

DODGE 2002 Ram. w/handicap lift. Good cond. $4800. 770-654-7657; 706-768-1643 TOYOTA 2005 Sienna LE Van, 146,000 mi, very good condition, non smoker, original owner, color salsa red pearl, tan cloth interior, automatic, 4-door, air conditioner, cruise control, power locks, power seats, power steering, power windows, rear window defroster, rear window wiper, tinted windows, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbag, abs, child safety latch, third row seats, roof rack, cd player, AM/ FM radio. $9,200. Contact Ray McPherson, 678 617 9021, raymac@windstream. net.

Legals

CMYK 14A

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

Congratulations to Mrs. Dell Taylor and Family from Gainesville on your New 2012 Honda Accord purchase.

"Our family has purchased 22 vehicles from Milton Martin Honda. We would never consider going anywhere else. We've always received a great price, plus the service department is excellent." QUALITY PRE-OWNED SPECIALS 2009 HONDA

ODYSSEY EX-L

STK#26780A, V-6, AUTOMATIC, BALI BLUE PEARL, LEATHER, SUNROOF, 55K MILES

2010 HONDA ACCORD EX-L SDN

STK#26729A, POLISHED METAL, P/W/L, 64K MILES, HONDA CERTIFIED

20,288

2011 HONDA CIVIC LX-S SDN IC, STK#26334A, 4 DOOR, AUTOMAT BLACK, 19K MILES, HONDA CERTIFIED

17,788

2009 MAZDA CX-7

2011 HONDA ACCORD EX-L SDN

23,588

2012 HONDA CIVIC EX SDN ER

STK#26599A, 4 DOOR, ALABAST SILVER, 5,035 MILES, HONDA CERTIFIED

20,288

2010 JEEP COMMANDER

#P7871, FWD, 4 DOOR, SPORT, BLACK, 26K MILES

#P7864, RWD,4 DOOR, SPORTS, BLACK, 51K MILES

2009 HONDA FIT

2007 NISSAN PATHFINDER

STK#26781A, V-6, AUTOMATIC, CD, WHITE DIAMOND, 16K MILES, HONDA CERTIFIED

22,988

18,688

19,488

2010 JEEP PATRIOT

#P7867, 4WD, 4 DOOR, SPORT, LIMITED, WHITE, 50K MILES

15,188

2012 HONDA CIVIC HYBRID PZEC, STK#P7826, 4 DOOR, L4, CVT, GREY, 9K MILES, HONDA CERTIFIED

19,988

#P7716A, ORANGE METALLIC, P/W/L, AUTOMATIC, REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

#P7890, 2WD, 4 DOOR, SE, BLACK, 78K MILES

13,688

16,288

2010 FORD FOCUS SE SDN

#P7882, GREAT MPG! ALLOY WHEELS, STERLING GREY, 46K MILES

13,188

2012 HONDA CIVIC EX CPE

STK#26802A, CRYSTAL BLACK, SUNROOF, 6,888 MILES, HONDA CERTIFIED

19,988

2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX

#26484A, FWD, AUTOMATIC, BLACK, PWR WINDOWS & LOCKS, 6K MILES

23,988

For Deaf and Hearing Impaired Hi, My name is Bill Boudreau

Call through SVRS to my cell

248-850-0325

Experienced in sign language CODA ( Child of Deaf Adults )

2010 SCION TC

#P7872, 2 DOOR, H/B, AUTOMATIC, WHITE, 32K MILES

16,288

2010 CHEVY COBALT

#P7878, BLACK, GAS SAVER! PWR WINDOWS & LOCKS, CD, 47K MILES

Sales tax and tag fees not included.

12,488

NEED CREDIT?

Your Job Is Your Credit! • Bad Credit • No Credit • Bankrupt • First Time Buyer • Open Chapter 7 Bankruptcies Welcome

MILTON MARTIN HONDA

2420 Browns Bridge Rd. Gainesville, GA, 30504

770-534-0086

www.miltonmartinhonda.com

CMYK

2012 HIGH SCHOOL Football Preview

Latrice Williams The Paper

Freshman Logan Trevor will be heavily relied upon in the kicking game for Jackson County Comprehensive High School.

The bold offensive lineman from Jefferson High School will have their hands full with more experienced defenders. With quarterback Bryant Shirreffs at the helm, they won’t have to fend for themselves, but they will have to know the plays down to a science and play at a high level in order to be successful.

Jackson County Comprehensive High School will start the young and talented Logan Trevor as their field goal and kick off specialist. Trevor is a freshman who should be able to bring his strong foot from his soccer career to the Panthers. It wouldn’t be surprising to see a game come down to the wire, and in that nail biting, teeth clinching moment that may rely solely on a his leg.

Latrice Williams The Paper

From left to right: Collin Anthony, Conner Nations, Jordan Tyler, Eli Griffin and Ethan Hix are the barricades that will anchor the offensive line for the Dragons of Jefferson High School.

Latrice Williams The Paper

Linebacker Patrick Dike, wide receiver Matthew Pursell and defensive lineman Kelsey Griffin should give the Hawks a good chance at a playoff run.

The relentless effort of the Mill Creek defense should prevent their opponents from drowning them in more points than they can handle. Darnell Augustin, Kelsey Griffin, and Patrick Dike are the faces of the Hawk defense and will be tested all season long.

Ready to see the action on the area gridiron From the final play of last season, inquiring minds have been wondering who will be the favorite to win it all a year later. It’s never to soon to start looking at the new season, and now that it’s finally here, there are sure to be upsets, dramatic finishes and everything in between. The Jefferson High School football team cruised through the regular season last year, but were doomed by Calhoun in the first round of the state playoffs. It’s safe to say they will be one of the top contenders out of their new region. The only question is can the Dragons learn how to compete against stiffer competition after the regular season and make a deep run, or even better, win it all? Or will it be the Jackson County Panthers? They have been plagued with the heartache of far too many losing seasons; their triumph should be right around the corner if Head Coach Benji Johnson, a zealous offensive mastermind, can whip up a sensational year for the Panthers to put them in more re-

spectable conversations. JCCHS will start the young and talented Trevor Logan as their field goal and kick off specialist. Trevor is a freshman who should be able to bring his strong foot from his soccer career to the Panthers. Last but not least are the Hawks of Mill Creek. Their name alone is so recognizable, that in the midst of their downtrodden 5-5 record last season, and they are still one of the most heavily “booster-supported” schools in the state of Georgia. This might be the year where we see a team or two emerge. How many times has America witnessed the underdog jump over the stumbling block and walk away with the Cinderella story only five percent of us saw coming? All three of these schools have hurdles to jump over and it will be interesting to see who has the highest leap. – Latrice Williams lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

INSIDE: 2B Hawks of Mill Creek 4B Panthers of JCCHS 6B Dragons of JHS 12B Meet the coaches 9B Other area teams A publication of

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2012 High School Football Preview

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Flowery from page 9B But, before the Falcons have the chance to possibly play in yet another pivotal game with Gainesville in the last week of the season, familiar region foes and new faces await. Because for a program that had known only one head football coach for its first decade of existence, this past offseason was quite a shake-up. Longtime Flowery Branch coach Lee Shaw is now coaching at Rabun County, offensive coordinator Benji Harrison is at Jackson County, and defensive coordinator Griffin has taken the reins of one of the most successful programs in the area. While there might be a few differences from the Shaw years, Griffin plans to keep the Falcons — who advanced to the state quarterfinals last season — as one of the top teams in not just the region, but the state. And his team has the potential to do just that — especially on defense. “Potentially this could be as good (at defense) as we’ve ever had,” Griffin said. “But, as I tell the players, potential has never won a game.”

Offense A number of big names are gone from an offense that averaged 44 points scored per game last season, including quarterback Kanler Coker, running back Jeremy Haley and top wide receivers CJ Curry and Jeremy Osborne. Griffin said that, while this year’s crop of offensive players may not exactly fill the shoes of last season’s stars, there’s still plenty of talent to go around, starting on the offensive line with college prospect and senior Chandler Bridges. At quarterback, Griffin said McDonald, a more advanced runner than passer knows the system as well as anyone, but it’s yet to be seen how he will fare in pressure situations in regular-season games. He’ll have another first-time offensive starter to hand the ball to in Quinton Mayfield, who has lately emerged as the top choice amongst a stable of potential running backs after spending the year on defense in 2011. There’s more starting experience at the wide receiver

spot, where 2011 starters Jamaad Stephens and Cris Dilidili, who accounted for a combined 725 receiving yards and seven scores, return. They are joined by Darius Curry, also a star defensive back, Cameron Davis, East Hall’s starting quarterback last season, and Devonte King.

Defense While Griffin said the unit has the potential to be the best in program history, the one weakness is depth. “Our starters are as good as we’ve had in a long time,” the coach said, “But there’s very little depth, especially at linebacker.” The starting linebacking corps has a wealth of talent though, with last season’s leading tackler in senior Jacob Allen and Greater Atlanta Christian transfer Kris Smith. The linebackers should have plenty of space within which to operate behind West Hall transfer Dexter Jackson at nose tackle, a player Griffin said could really cause problems for the opposing offense. In the defensive backfield, returning starters Darius Curry and Noel Padmore, two highlevel Division-I prospects, return to their cornerback spots.

Special teams Kicker Leo Manzo graduated, but Flowery Branch returns punter Lucas Arnett, who is an option for the kicking duties along with Alejandro Montoya and Jesus Alvarado.

Outlook Gainesville is the only new face in Region 8-AAAAA, formerly 8-AAAA, a region that Flowery Branch won a share of, and would have won outright with a win over Clarke Central last season. The Gladiators are the only region team the Falcons have yet to beat. Now the Red Elephants and Gladiators will stand in the way of the Falcons’ chances at a region title, along with a few other talented opponents. Still, the Falcons can match up with any other favorite in the region, meaning the region title is very much up in the air.

Commerce High School BY KELSEY WILLIAMSON kwilliamson@ gainesvilletimes.com Commerce coach Marvin Justice believes that the key to having a successful season in his second year as head coach will be staying healthy and developing a positive attitude, things the team struggled with last season. In 2011, the Tigers were plagued with what Justice considers “an avalanche of injuries,” with eight different players losing substantial playing time after being hurt. If the team can stay healthy this season, however, Commerce may benefit from losing so many players last year because this season’s starters were able to gain experience filling the roles of the injured last season.

Offense The Tigers are without four-year starter Cody Streetman this season, but filling the void at quarterback will be junior Drew Whitfield, who Justice believes is ready to take on the starting role in the Tigers’ tripleoption offense. “Drew is a natural football player who has all the tools to become a solid quarterback as a junior,” Justice said. “He’s a natural leader and competitor.” Quay Little and Terrick Ramsey return as experienced running backs, and Jamir Walton will be expected to emerge as one of Whitfield’s main targets at wide receiver. Justice feels that Walton will be an all-purpose weapon for the team and may use him in many different positions, even quarterback if needed.

Commerce will also see college prospect Jamal Browner return to the backfield after suffering a seasonending injury during the first week of practice last year. The offensive line will be full of experience with returning starters Clay Pritchett and Micah Eason as anchors. Justice thinks the offensive line will be the main strength of this year’s team and that “with the proper attitude, this offensive line could go down as one of the best in Commerce history.”

Defense The defense returns many younger players who saw playing time last season when many of the starters were injured. The secondary could be the strength of the defense as it returns all of the starters from last year. Baron Mather returns at safety after suffering from injury last season and will be joined by Chase Ledbetter and Darian Hill. Walton, who led the team in interceptions last year, will play cornerback along with Ramsey and Little.

EasT HALL from page 9B duties for East Hall, while Junior Lee will punt. There are four or five players who are still battling it out for primary return duties, and Gray said there is a lot of defensive speed that will carry over to special teams as well.

Outlook As with many teams in Region 7-AAA, East Hall figures to be firmly in the hunt for one of the four playoff spots. It will be difficult for the team to improve by leaps and bounds, simply because of the lost production of running back Witt. But deeper talent across the board could help the team step forward, perhaps into the playoffs.

Chance McClure has experience on both sides of the ball and will be counted upon to fill the holes left by the graduation of Josh Swistak. Morgan Flint and Logan Owensby will fill out the linebacking corps, and Dillion Haggard and Trey Grier will start as defensive linemen after playing linebacker last year.

Special teams Kyle Brewer will return as the long snapper, while Owensby will take over punting. Junior Nahum Mendoza is expected to assume kicking duties.

Outlook While the Tigers haven’t missed the playoffs since 1996, they’ve suffered through losing seasons in three of the last four years. If these players continue to mature at their positions and stay healthy, Commerce should make a run for not only a 16th straight postseason appearance, but perhaps more.

NORth HALL from page 9B Smith and T.J. Tate will split return duties.

Outlook In a region with teams of similar skill, North Hall appears to have more than a fighting chance at a playoff spot. Christmas sees room for improvement before his team is ready to make that leap, however. “I think we’ve still got a lot of work to do,” he said. “I think we’ll continue to find some areas we need to grow in.” If that growth can take place, the Trojans could find themselves back in familiar territory.

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The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

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Winder-Barrow High School By MITCH BLOMERT Regional staff In just a little more than a month, it will be three years since the Winder-Barrow football team has been on the winning side of a football game. After a victory over Monroe Area on Oct. 9, 2009, the Bulldoggs lost 24 straight games and own the secondlongest active skid in the GHSA. Of those losses, 20 of them were under head coach David Wagner, whose first stint as a head coach in Georgia has begun with backto-back winless seasons. Now entering his third season atop the program, Wagner knows he has some catching up to do. And what better way to catch up then being faster than the competition? Therein lays the central theme of Winder-Barrow’s 2012 season – speed. “There’s no doubt about it – I like what we’ve done and where we’ve gotten to strength-wise, but fortunately that we’ve got some guys back this year that can run,” Wagner said. “The more speed you can get on the field, the more threats you can put out there offensively. On defense, the more guys you have running to the football, it only gives you a better opportunity to compete.” Leading the movement to make the Bulldoggs one of Region 8-AAAAA’s fastest teams are a cast of returning starters from last year, a new option-based offensive attack that embraces fleetfooted athletes, and a unit of linemen designed to be hybrids with both strength and quickness off the line. Whether or not that will translate into much-needed wins this season has yet to be discovered, but if there’s any way the losing streak will end and playoff contention becomes a possibility for Winder-Barrow, speed will be a big player in the transformation.

“You look historically at what the teams in our region have done in the past five years, and I can name six, if not seven, that have made the playoffs or are used to being in the postseason,” Wagner said. “Only four are going, so several teams that are used to being the playoffs are going to be home in November.”

Offense The most drastic offseason change during WinderBarrow’s plan to get faster comes when the ball is in the Bulldoggs’ hands. Wagner’s team will debut an option-based offense this year with the goal of utilizing their running back depth to wear down opposing defenses and open up holes in coverage. Once those holes are open, Winder-Barrow has the breakaway speed to get away from the secondary in a hurry. But to make all the gears turn properly, a competent quarterback is required to manage the complexities of the running plays behind him, and the Bulldoggs will count on third-year starter Christian Hodge to handle those responsibilities. Hodge passed for 367 yards and one touchdown a season ago in Winder-Barrow’s Wing-T offense, and will likely have more responsibility lying in regulating the option than throwing big passes downfield. “We expect a lot out of Christian,” Wagner said. “He’s had a good summer and a good fall going into the season with executing the option and play action in the passing game we use.” Hodge’s backfield is where the Bulldoggs will get their biggest chances to show off their quickness, with a threeheaded running assault of Chad Platt, Chandon Sullivan and Johnny Hester handling the ball-carrying duties on offense. All three running backs

were routinely timed in 40yard dashes throughout the summer, and each one recorded times under 4.6 seconds. Platt, the lone senior of the trio, nearly cracked the 4.4-second mark on regular occasions. “I’ve been around players that were fast, but when you through the equipment on and put a football in their hand, they don’t play that fast,” Wagner said. “Chad has shown he can do that, and the key is getting those younger guys that are growing up into their junior year to understand that’s how you have to play.” But even with an astute running back installed into the offense, Winder-Barrow trusts Hodge to make passes when necessary, even with his No. 1 target Markesio Anderson out for the season with an ankle injury. The Bulldoggs will replace Anderson with a pair of 6foot-3 receivers in sophomore Champ Johnson and freshman Brandon Hayes. Neither player has varsity experience, but Wagner has been impressed with their abilities during preseason practices. “I challenged them early in the week and told them that we needed some guys to step up, and I’m going to give you a look,” Wagner said. “They haven’t let me down thus far, so we’re going to throw to a couple of young receivers but obvious they have the frame to play the position.” Senior Al Schotters and Efa Osuegbu and junior Trey Russell will pull additional passes at tight end. Winder-Barrow’s offensive line is smaller than the norm, averaging out at about 240 pounds, but four of the Bulldoggs’ starting five played last season. Tyler Junius and Austin Stewart will hold up the left side of the line, with Soloman Sims at center and Josh Harvey at right guard. Starting right tackle Colton Wheeler is the only newcomer to the

group, but has varsity experience as a snapper. “That first five has really solidified themselves in the offensive line,” Wagner said. “I think we’ll be undersized in some spots as far as region play goes, but the one thing I can say about them is that they’re strong, fast, physical kids.”

Defense Winder-Barrow’s regionworst 40 points per game in 2011 prompted Wagner to promote assistant coach Stanley Allen to defensive coordinator near the end of last season, which turned the Bulldoggs’ regular defensive formation into a 4-4 set. Winder-Barrow will continue to normally set up in the 4-4, but will utilize different packages throughout the season. “The players have really enjoyed it,” Wagner said. “They’ve really put the time in learning it, so it’s been a relief for [Allen] to step over and do that. He’s taken it and they’ve ran with.” The Bulldoggs lost half of their defensive line from the season, with Tyler Pineda and Taylor Pineda taking their talents to Reinhardt College, but they retain Stewart and Juan Lozano on the line, with Osuegbu and Agustin Salas joining them as first-year starters. Stewart, who was named to the Region 8-AAAA AllRegion Second Team a year ago, is expected to be a major threat for the Bulldoggs in the trenches. “We expect him to give us everything, and he always does,” Wagner said. “He’s not really tall, so he’s able to use his center of gravity to his advantage against a taller opponent. The better shape he’s in, the fewer times he’ll come out.” Winder-Barrow’s most intimidating defensive post might be at inside linebacker, where the Bulldoggs boast a pair of large senior tacklers in Schotter and Tyree Tan-

ner. Schotter led Winder-Barrow with 103.5 tackles last season, while Tanner spent the summer impressing college scouts with his superior strength in National Underclassmen Combines. “Those guys bring huge experience into the game,” Wagner said. “With Al and Tyree, we really look for those two to take the lead defensively.” Sophomores Cole Baggett and Jeremy Ramsey will anchor the Bulldoggs’ outside linebackers, with Levi Worley and Pike Lynn also seeing reps at the position. In the secondary, seniors Andre Cain and Joe Morris are slated at starters at cornerback, while Bradyn Randall handles safety duties. The ever-versatile Sullivan and Platt will also assist the backfield at both positions.

Special Teams Winder-Barrow’s most outstanding player may not be and offensive or defensive player, but rather the kicker. Sophomore Collin Shannon enters his second year as the Bulldoggs kicker and punter and has improved greatly from last year, when he earned All-Region honors for his performances. “He’s getting to where he’s getting half of them into the end zone off the tee, “Wagner said. “Making the offense go 80 yards every time they get is big.” Wheeler will handle snapping duties again this season. Kick and punt return responsibilities will be split among Platt, Sullivan and freshman Ce Ce Green.

Outlook While Wagner’s first two years at Winder-Barrow have been challenging, they haven’t gone by without seeing seen marked improvement among his players since crossing town two

years to take the Bulldoggs’ head coaching duties after serving as defensive coordinator at Apalachee. “We’ve learned to battle through adversity and find positives – small positives in that cloud of negativity that sometimes comes along with the win-loss record,” Wagner said. “We’ve found a lot of ways to encourage players and get a lot of players out on the field.” But even with a faster team and a new offense, major tasks still lie between the Bulldoggs and a victory, including the schedule. Winder-Barrow will play just four games at home this year, all of them region games. An agreement between the Bulldoggs and Jackson County before the 2012 schedule was completed put the game in the Panthers stadium this year, and historic rival Monroe Area could only play Winder-Barrow if the game was played in Monroe. “We really wanted to get the Monroe game for that historic rivalry back to WinderBarrow,” Wagner said. “In order for it to work, we had to play them over there. We could’ve gotten five and five, but we wouldn’t have been able to play those two teams.” While home field advantage won’t be quite as advantageous for the Bulldoggs this year, they will even it out the following year by playing six home games in 2013. So even if Winder-Barrow can’t speed its way into the playoffs this year, the opportunity to do so the following year is better than ever with more games in front of the home crowd. Either way, success can’t come soon enough for the Bulldoggs. “It has been a trying couple of years because we want so much more for the players at times,” Wagner said. “I think the frustration sets in sometimes, because I want that for them more than anything.”

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2012 High School Football Preview

MEET THE DREAM TEAM JHS DRAGONS COACHING STAFF T. McFerrin, head coach Tom Parker, defensive coordinator/defensive backs Ben Hall, offensive coordination/ offensive line Nate Webster, defensive ends Bob Gurley, defensive line Todd Samples, linebackers Rodney Kesler, quality control Billy Brunson, tight ends Running Backs Sid Smith, running backs Allen Thompson, quarterbacks Matt Stephenson, wide receivers

MCHS HAWKS COACHING STAFF

Shannon Jarvis, head coach Josh Lovelady, offensive coordinator of running game/ offensive line Tommy Scott, defensive oordinator/trength and conditioning Jed Hodges, special teams coordinator/defensive line Frank Bendin, defensive backs Chad Rogers, offensive coordinator of passing game/wide receivers Tim Rondeau, varsity running backs - head junior varsity coach Chris Williams, linebackers/JV assistant Will Shelton, tight ends/JV assistant

Ed Russ, assistant strength and conditioning coach Benji Queen, head 9th grade coach Rod Dollar, quarterbacks/JV Assistant Neal Harris, 9th grade assistant Matt Clark, kickers and punters Doug Jones, 9th grade assistant Vernon Harmon, 9th grade assistant David Bethea, 9th grade assistant Ryan Drake, 9th grade assistant Mike Taube, team trainer * All names may not be mentioned

JCCHS PANTHERS COACHING STAFF Benji Harrison, head coach Charles Allen, offensive coordinator David Darling, defensive backs Brent Gilstrap, wide receivers Robbie Camp, wide receivers Tirris Dixon, linebacks/ defensive line Wes Sanders, running backs Philip Vincent, defensive line

CMYK 2012 High School Football Preview

JCCHS half-time show is featuring train theme By KATIE JUSTICE kjustice@clickthepaper.com Home fans at Jackson County Comprehensive High School’s football games may be expecting to hear someone yell “Touchdown,” but what they probably aren’t expecting to hear is an authentic steam locomotive bell. However, that’s just what they will hear during half time. The high school’s marching band has prepared a railroad themed ensemble that includes songs such as “Chattanooga Choo Choo” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Spectators can also expect to see railroad signs and crossing gates on the field. “We like to perform shows that are entertaining for our home audiences on Friday nights and have songs that they recognize, yet are also appealing to the judges at our marching competitions.,” said Miles Adams, who, along with his wife, Helen Adams, directs the band. This year’s drum major Casey Hitzges will be accompanied on the field by the rest of the 140-member band and, while the show is new to us, band members have been practicing since last May. However, the Adams began working on this year’s railroad theme at the end of last year’s marching season.

“I am so appreciative of our students for their talent, dedication and hard work. We have the best students in the school and they prove that by their efforts and performance ability every day,” said Miles Adams. However, the hard work doesn’t end with the students. “We also appreciate our band parents and all they do to support our band students,” he said. This will be the third year the JCCHS band isn’t receiving any money from the school system. “Our band parents must raise every penny that we spend on instruments, music, equipment, travel expenses, festival entry fees, district and state events, etc. I appreciate the Jackson County Band parents’ relentless commitment to providing a quality music education for the band students in Jackson County,” said Miles Adams. “Many folks think that the fall season is all about football. However, in addition to those hard-working athletes and their coaches, we have 140 hard-working band students preparing to entertain our audience on Friday night halftimes and keep our fans pepped up in the bleachers,” he said.

Winder-Barrow High band picked for Chick-fil-A Bowl By KATIE JUSTICE kjustice@clickthepaper.com The Winder-Barrow High School marching band is heading to the Chick-fil-A Bowl in Atlanta in December as one of only two schools in the state invited to perform. They will be performing in the halftime and pregame shows as well as the bowl game parade. However, getting to the game is costly. In fact, they need to raise $70,000. To help offset expense, the band will be hosting the second annual Winder-Barrow High School Band Benefit Antique Car, Truck, Motorcycle

and Tractor Show on Saturday, Sept. 29, from noon to 6 p.m. at the school’s stadium. The entry fee is $10. There will be more than 50 awards given in 17 difference classes. There will also be music by D.J. Cruzin to the Oldies Tommy Landrum. In addition to the Antique Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Tractor show, the band is seeking donations and sponsors. Donations can be made at BB&T Bank to the Winder-Barrow High School Band. For more information on becoming a sponsor, contact William O. Reidling, president of the W-BHS Band Boosters, at 770-868-9017 or email wbhsbandboosters@yahoo.com.

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MILL CREEK HAWKS MCHS CAN FLY HIGH THIS SEASON

2012 VARSITY ROSTER RB/DB QB WR/DB WR DB/WR DB DB WR RB DB/RB WR QB DB WR/DB TE/DE WR RB/DB DB DB DB OLB/RB LB RB LB DB RB OLB/FB DB/WR K DB LB RB/LB LB LB RB/DB P/K OLB DB OLB LB OLB DB DE FB/LB DE/FB LB DL/OL OL OL DL/OL OL OL LB OL OL DL OL OL OL OL DE DL OL OL OL OL DL OL OL DE/TE WR WR RB OLB DE/TE P/K DE DL DE

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and I was pleased with our offensive line tonight. We came in here not really wanting to throw it a lot. We wanted to just try to pound it. I was proud of their protection, and a lot of times, Parkview had a lot of people in the box and we were just hard-headed on some of it and they had good movement,” said Jarvis. “Overall I was pleased with a lot of elements of the team. We got some substitution stuff to think about. We got to get that cleaned up and we know that,” said Jarvis. The wide receivers Dike is one of the top linebackers for the Hawks, and can really use his speed to fly around the ball and get stop of- will have a tough task in being able to bring in big fensive playmakers. He is a bit undersized, but has the abil- catches, but Matthew ity to shut down wide receivers if he’s put in that position. Pursell is confident that through their skills and team bonding, the receivers should be able to put on a show. “We came together over the summer and got closer. We have more experience and are getting better every day. We are not taking a day off,” said Pursell.

The Hawks of Mill Creek High School have truly made a name for themselves in the high school football realm. Their stadium can compete with some on the collegiate level, and although they may not have always have a winning record to back them up, they have enough support from the boosters and community to give them enough respect from the community. The Hawks went 5-5 last season with losses against Mountain View, North Gwinnett, and Peachtree Ridge just to name a few. MCHS can’t afford another season with an even amount of wins and losses. Since the existence of Mill Creek football, the team has a 20-20 home record, and with six home games, the Hawks will have a slight advantage with a great home schedule against some favorable teams. MCHS needs to focus on getting back into the winning column, and it starts Leading the way for with shutting down the the Hawks on defense is team that will give them Kelsey Griffin, who is one the most competition this of the most sought after year. North Gwinnett High defensive linemen in the Lewis racked up 1,190 yards last year, including 1,012 School went 10-2 last year country. He has received while going undefeated rushing yards, and 178 receiving. He can get the job done scholarship offers from in the region. The Hawks by ground or by air, and should be able to increase his num- the University of Georgia, have a chance to end their the University of Tennesbers from a year ago. six game losing streak see, Florida State Uniagainst North Gwinnett at versity, the University of mor has it that Strickland and sophohome on Oct. 12. Playing NGHS at home Florida and others. He is currently rated more quarterback David Daniel were should be a huge advantage. 134 out of the nation’s top 150 players on In their scrimmage battleagainst neck and neck for the position, so fans ESPN Recruiting Nation Football. should feel pretty confident about Danthe Parkview High School on Aug. 17, No matter what game plan his opthe coaches and fans were able to get a iel as their man under center. ponents may devise, it is virtually im“I though our sophomore quarterglimpse of what kind of talent the Hawks back David Daniel played well in the possible to stop Griffin; no double or have this year. triple team will hold him back. As the “When you get to play another oppo- first half. He’s a kid we feel real strongly leader of the defensive unit, the senior about. He’s got to settle in, but I thought nent, you can really see it. We can see it is returning for his final season, and the against each other all we want in prac- he did well,” said Jarvis. Hawks are extremely fortunate to have Against Parkview, pregame jitters tice, but you have to play somebody and him as an athlete. and not a lot of power on offense seemed that’s what this scrimmage does,” said “At the high school level it almost to be two of the major concerns for the Head Coach Shannon Jarvis. Hawks, but once Daniel got a chance takes a triple team. That’s why I told our to get comfortable and play his game, linebackers this year, you better enjoy he did pretty well against the Panthers. him being in front of you,” said Jarvis. Teams will most certainly have their MCHS has an experience offensive line On Aug. 3, intended starting quar- returning, which should prove to be hands full with a guy that can really plug terback Eric Strickland broke his foot very beneficial for an inexperienced the gap in the middle or break through during a varsity vs. junior varsity scrim- quarterback. “I thought our run fits were very well See MILL CREEK, page 3B mage game at Duncan Creek Park. Ru-

Defense

Senior running back Jacorey Lewis

Offense

LOCATION OF HAWKS STADIUM Mill Creek High 124

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DeVozea Felton Eric Ritland Matthew Pursell Kyle Nichols Keanu James Deshawn Terrell Kalin Toledo Jin Han Gabriel Franklin B.J. Harmon Austin Geist Daniel David Wes Peterson Michael Cheeks Justin Otiwu Austin Ragsdale Carter Governale Tucker Smith Austin Taunton Jordan Sylvain Michael Leonard David Tran Evens Fontaine Sam Robinson Alec Ahern Jacorey Lewis Gary Holness Brandt Preyer Bryson King Reece Smith Brandon Scott Andrew Sciara Mike Major Patrick Dike Chris Dickhute Collin Chiu Brandon Holley Frederick Houston Cole Ford Cheyann Kazemian Kyle Marbut Zac Turner Hunter Kemp Tyler Voyles Everett Burris Bryson Bonta Joe Cox Kaleb Kim Matt Kopp Jake Lund Chad Walker Jacob Lee Bryan Walker Jordan Brooks Colin Pernett Chris Rimpel Conner Cooper Cody Taylor J.D. Al-Khatib Harrison Everette Tal Fields Devon Adams Ryan Schmidt John Troutman Griffin Lawson Kyle Stepherson Marquise Thomas Josh Fannin Gabe Mason Ben Otiwu Justin Estep Jake Hall Aaron Martin Errol Martin-Rogers Matt Beck Jake Richards Charles Jones Kelsey Griffin Darnell Augustin

HIGH-FLYING HAWKS

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By Latrice Williams lwilliams@ clickthepaper.com

THE BIG DATE: MCHS VS. DACULA Tomorrow’s season opener against Dacula High School will more than likely be the biggest one for MCHS. They need to set the tone early on and make a statement that they are the new team to beat.

COACH’S RESUME ■ Has 15 years of coaching experience ■ Coached at Dublin High School ■ Coached at South Gwinnett High School

Stadium: Mill Creek Community Stadium Directions: Mill Creek is located off Braselton Highway (GA-124) in Hoschton approximately 2.5 miles from the Hamilton Mill exit on I-85.

2012 VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Date Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9

Opponent Dacula Brookwood Mountain View Peachtree Ridge Norcross Meadowcreek North Gwinnett Duluth Open Habersham Central Collins Hill

Location Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Away

Time 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Home Away

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

COACH’S STANDPOINT Head Coach Shannon Jarvis should be able to lead this team to a postseason appearance. The Hawks worked hard all summer through long through early workouts, camps, tournaments, and in two scrimmage games. “When you get to play anJarvis other opponent, you can really see it. We can see it against each other all we want in practice, but you have to play somebody and that’s what this scrimmage does,” said Head Coach Shannon Jarvis. “Overall I was pleased with a lot of elements of the team. We got some substitution stuff to think about. We got to get that cleaned up and we know that,” said Jarvis. With Kelsey Griffin leading the way on defense, the Hawks are lucky to have a solid lineman that can handle a huge load. “I’ve had him for four years and I have yet to find a lineman that can single block him,” said Jarvis.

CMYK 2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

POSTSEASON POTENTIAL

MILL CREEK from page 2B

Hawks have additional weapons on defense on the end. “I’ve had him for four years and I have yet to find a lineman that can single block him,” said Jarvis. “His hands are better than people realize and his feet are great. Kelsey runs to the ball. Once he takes the double team, he still runs to the ball,” said Jarvis. It’s obvious that Griffin gets a lot attention, but he is not the only force on the defensive line. Junior defensive end Darnel Augustin is another weapon the Hawks have on the line, as well as defensive end Justin Otiwu. “Honestly I was pleased with our defensive front. We felt that should be a strength [and] not just because of Kelsey, but we’ve got some other [good] players…our defensive end. I thought our defensive front and our linebackers their run fits tonight we’re really good. I know we gave up the long run; there was a formation where we had a missed alignment but that stuff will be corrected. We’ve done a lot of best against best, but we still didn’t know if the kids had seen that much speed,” said Jarvis. “We have a little bit more experience and more heart, and that’s really going to make a difference this year,” said Griffin. The Hawks have most of the stronger teams at home,

and with a rowdy crowd behind them, the Hawks will have to learn how to manage the noise level and use it in a beneficial way. “We are trying to make it an advantage. We kind of play a little different at

Latrice Williams The Paper

Mill Creek works the running game during their varsity vs. junior varsity match on Aug. 3 at Duncan Creek Park.

home; we are trying to loosen up. In th past we caught up in the noise, but we are a better team and more mature,” said Dike.

Special Teams

The Hawks return punter Collin Chiu as the starter, but is currently out with an injury. No time table has been set for his return, but if he is not back on the field in time, look for sophomore Jake Richards to take over.

Bryson King has been named as the starting kicker, and the field goal assignment has not been established as of yet.

Outlook The Hawks have a team

with playoff potential, but could easily miss their mark if they let games slip away from them. They will be in a tough position, and should make the most of every opportunity to get as many wins as possible.

Latrice Williams The Paper

The Hawks of Mill Creek practice the art of blocking and tackling during practice in preparation for the season opener against Dacula.

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Sports Medicine

CMYK 4B

2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

JACKSON COUNTY PANTHERS Will the Panthers see the playoffs?

2012 VARSITY ROSTER Malik Tuck Dustin Scott Easton Tuggle Kyle Clark Kyle Crumley Jacob Lewin Todd Woodring Daivon Ledford Ben Brissey Luke Gonzalez Kyle Daniel Adrian Parsons Zach Evans Will Clark Jake Smith Xavier Harper Jace Latty Cole Alford Noah Custer Garrett Holt Sean Lee Zach Ferguson Keyshaun Curry Layson Giles Preston Giroux Chris Foster Crosby Harbin Dylan Stowe Blake Tuten Nick Shawa Brian Combs Joel Ellis Chandler Lanier Mitchell Mershon Austin Lews Jeremy Groalczyk Alex Ashley Timmy Griffin Luis Sanchez Evan Breakspear Chandler Todd Nick Griffin Logan Trevor Griffin McElvery Ty Bailey Kyle Fuller Jorge Monzon Luke Sanders Josh Conway Corey Walker Zack Bryant Javon Tuck Drake Corbin Tristin Denton Blake Lewallen Ian McGaughey Silas Vincent DJ Graves Keith Pruitt Dalton Hall Alston Standard Alex Whit Austin Stockton Ben Ashley Reno Messler Conner Everett Justin Bailey Matthew Gooch Patrick Kelly Josh Ingram River Bryant Ronald Bloodsaw Walt Palmer

RB RB WR QB RB QB\WR DB LB\RB WR RB QB WR DB WR WR WR DB WR DB DB LB DB DB\RB WR DB DL WR DB DB LB DB WR DL WR WR DB DB RB K LB LB WR K LB K LB DL OL DL OL OL DL LB OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL DL OL DL OL OL OL OL OL OL DL WR WR

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Someone once said that education is adversity. If that is true, then the Jackson County Comprehensive High School football team will be scholarly athletes by the end of the season. The Panthers are long overdue for a successful year on the gridiron. The last time the Panthers achieved a winning season was 1992 when the team posted a record of 8-2-1. In the past five seasons, former Head Coach Billy Kirk was 12-37-1. If you haven’t heard by now, Head Coach Benji Harrison has taken over the program for the Panthers, and he is optimistic that things are headed in the right direction, although there still seems to be a little bit of uncertainty among all three phases of the game. “I think the biggest challenge is we are not sure about everything yet. We are still in the process of making sure that our players know exactly what they are doing on every play so we can do it fast,” said Harrison. “I think they are catching on and they’re working really hard. I guess the biggest thing is we just have to go out there and play.” Football in small towns brings big attention, and one of the toughest duties for a new football coach is winning the support of the community. Panther fans have seen coaches come and go, leaving Harrison the tough job of not only winning games, but proving that he is here for the long haul. “I think they are excited. Obviously there are question marks in their head, too,” said Harrison. “They’re looking to see how we will play on Friday nights, so I think the support is there. I’ve heard the positive things. They’re behind us, and we just hope we can play well on Fridays.” Luckily, the Panthers will return a strong core of veterans who should be loaded with experience and talent. “We’ve got a lot of seniors,”

It’s been a while since these two teams have met up, and the rival is actually more-so on the Panthers side. The bitter rival between Jackson County and Jefferson still stands, and it should be a nice showdown between two schools who’s stadiums are just a couple miles apart from each other.

2012 VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Opponent Winder-Barrow Jefferson Athens Christian East Jackson North Oconee Franklin County Hart County Oconee Elbert County Morgan County

Location Home Away Home Home Home Away Away Away Home Away

In his season finale with the Panthers, Scott will be looked to not only for his leadership, but for his sound decisions and experience on the field.

Junior wide receiver Xavier Harper Harper was one of the starting receivers from last season, and will being another year of experience to the Panthers. He should be a nice target for quartersaid Harrison. “As a coach, it’s just the challenge of the competition each week and seeing if you can have your team more prepared than the other team. For us, it’s the whole competition thing. In high school athletics in general, there is really nothing like it. They are playing for the right reasons. “It just brings the community together and I’ve always said there is nothing like Friday night lights,” said Harrison.

Offense

Harrison, who was previously the offensive coordinator at Flowery Branch High School, has a group of competitors who want to be the first to bring a winning tradition to the Panthers program. Blasting their foes with big numbers should not be a problem in the long run for the Panthers, as Harrison’s Flowery Branch squad averaged 44 points per game last year. There is no telling whether this team will be able to deliver that kind of performance, and the Panthers’ best bet is take everything one step at a time. JCCHS returns

LOCATION OF PANTHER STADIUM

THE BIG DATE: PANTHERS VS. DRAGONS

Date Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9

Senior running back Dustin Scott

Time 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

High School Rd.

Jackson County High

Je Wind ffe rso er nH wy .

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PANTHER PLAYMAKERS

By Latrice Williams lwilliams@ clickthepaper.com

11 129

Stadium: Panther Stadium Directions: Panther Stadium is located on the second entrance to the school off WInder Highway, when coming from Highway 129 in Jefferson.

COACH’S RESUME ■ At Flowery Branch High School, he was the quarterbacks and offensive coordinator. ■ Assistant head coach, quarterbacks and offensive coordinator at Franklin County High School. ■ Served at Elbert County High School as the quarterbacks coach. ■ Led both FBHS and EBHS to playoff appearances.

playmakers Dustin Scott and Xavier Harper. Scott is an electrifying running back, who can easily be the light breeze that slips past defenders. Scott performed well this summer during camp, as well as in the National 7on-7 tournament. He is a bit undersized, but makes up for it with his speed and ability to read defenders. Junior wide receiver Xavier Harper looks to have all the assets a good wide receiver should have. Harper missed an opportunity to score in the Panthers scrimmage against Athens Academy, but with more time and focus, he should develop into a player that can really see the ball and learn how to create the distance between him and players in the secondary.“We’ve got enough good players to spread them out and give them the ball,” said Harrison. The Panthers took a 28-0 loss to Athens Academy in their scrimmage game, and are hoping that another shutout does not occur for the rest of the season. The Panthers are going to need that extra push from their offensive line in order to see themselves in the end zone on a more consistent basis. Giving up big plays in the red zone must be eliminated if the Panthers want a taste of the end zone. Turnovers can be very costly, and can be very rewarding for the opponent if they are able to convert. The Panthers fumbled at the 3 yard line against the Spartans, and also had a pass intercepted from 10 yards out, striking out two huge opportunities and something encouraging to hold onto. The best thing about all of the Panthers mishaps is the timing of it all; scrimmage games are the perfect opportunity for coaches and players to put the finishing touches on any blemishes. It would take a complete 360degree turnaround for this team to become a contender in the playoffs, and they have the whole year to “get ‘er done.”

See JACKSON, page 5B

COACH’S STANDPOINT Head Coach Benji Harrison will bring a lot of energy to a young team that he can mild into winners. “We’ve got a lot of seniors,” said Harrison. “As a coach, it’s just the challenge of the competition each week and seeing if you can have your team more Harrison prepared than the other team. For us, it’s the whole competition thing. In high school athletics in general, there is really nothing like it. They are playing for the right reasons. “It just brings the community together and I’ve always said there is nothing like Friday night lights,” said Harrison. If Harrison can keep the support of the community behind him, the Panthers may seem some longevity with their new head coach. “I think they are excited. Obviously there are question marks in their head, too,” said Harrison. “They’re looking to see how we will play on Friday nights, so I think the support is there. I’ve heard the positive things. They’re behind us, and we just hope we can play well on Fridays.”

CMYK 2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

NEW TEAM - SAME DREAM

JACKSON from page 4B

Coach Harrison looks to turn Panthers around

Latrice Williams The Paper

The Panthers gathered around their coaches before an early end to their practice last Friday.

Latrice Williams The Paper

Doug Chellew The Paper

Freshman quarterback Kyle Clark test his skills under center as the Jackson County Comprehensive High School Panthers work through drills during early summer workouts under new Head Coach Benji Harrison.

In a scene from last season, Jefferson and Jackson County Comprehensive High School take the field in rivalry showdown. The Panthers will host the Jefferson Dragons in their second match up of the year this season.

Defense

won’t go unnoticed. The soccer player turned kicker is the frontrunner for the job, and may be lucky enough to be a four-year starter. “We are going to be young in our kicking game. There’s no doubt about that, and that’s a concern strictly because they are young, but I think they’ve got good potential,” said Harrison.

Although the JCCHS defense gave up 28 points against Athens Academy, their performance overall was not to shabby considering the talent they were going up against. “They are guys that can control the line of scrimmage,” Harrison said. The Panthers allowed the

Spartans to convert on three big touchdowns, including scores from 80, 68 and 40 yards. A touchdown is a touchdown, but there is nothing like scoring on big plays, and it makes a lot more fun when you are the team delivering the blows, not receiving them. “Our front has got to play well. I think if our front continues to play well, it’s going

to give everybody else time to make sure they are up to par in their game,” said Harrison.

Special Teams In the past, the kicking game was usually the one aspect of football that would go unrecognized, but with a freshman field goal specialist, Logan Trevor definitely

Punter River Bryant is returning for his senior season, and should provide leadership for Logan to follow.

Outlook It’s kind of hard to say where the Panthers will end up at the end of the season. Fans of Cinderella stories would no doubt love to see this team flourish quickly,

but that doesn’t happen too often in a short period of time. If Coach Harrison stays around long enough to get this team where they need to be, there is a possibility they can be successful, but it may take some time. Many Panther fans are probably excited about what’s to come, but should not expect a quick turnaround.

CMYK 6B

2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

JEFFERSON DRAGONS THE BIG BLUE HAS ARRIVED 2012 VARSITY ROSTER Willie Taylor Sammy Williams Wesley Simonton Tradd Porter Kendrick Robinson Austin Mixon Dalton Hill Shaq Alexander Trent Sorrells Chase Wester Tay Stevens McKay Dickens Hunt Hayes Bryant Shirreffs Evan Shirreffs Ty Blackard Chandler Thompson Antonio Strickland Tristan Amouroux Hanon Price Isaiah Blake Sylas Thibodeaux Kade Bougher Drevan Taylor Rodney Carr Micah Carpenter Cole Stancil Luke Wells Tristen Jackson Hunter McCaslin Austin McAllister Steven Nguyen Vance Holcombe Josh Cole Logan Lanphear Tyler McAllister Kevin Hankinson Stephan Nguyen Kody McDonald Cooper Young Joseph Randolph Charles Swank Tyler Bowen Robby Glockson Chandler Schlutow Ethan Hix Chazz Tillman Tyler Cole Zach Barber Collin Anthony Kyle Porter Jackson Bowen Justin Holcombe Deshon Lester Jordan Tyler Blake Harkins Daniel Kimmel Michael Dyer Zach Bowman Rufus Whitfield Cody Patridge Conner Nations Canaan Wade Michael Hernandez Eli Griffin Todd Brown Brett Carson John Myers Connor Paul Alex Corbett Jackson Dyer Ethan Garner Michael Goza Donnie Hatfield Chris Nable Jackson Howard Gage Lawson Bryson Wright Alex Loven Maverick McKinney Evan Mobley Walter Chapeau Alex Parrish Angel Cazares Devin Malone Lane Blackard Michael Paolozzi Tyler McCrary

DB RB TE/LB TE/DB DB DB WR/DB RB WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB WR/DB TE/DE QB QB DB WR RB/DB RB/LB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB WR/DB RB/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB RB/LB RB/DB LB RB/DE WR/DB DB K LB DE LB WR/DB TE/LB DE RB/LB LB K OL/LB OL/DL OL/DE OL/LB OL/DE OL/DL OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB OL/DL WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB DB WR/DB LB TE/DE WR/DB LB K K DB OL/DL WR

pressed his concern about the big duties that are being passed down to a youthful unit. “I’m concerned about The Dragons are comhow inexperienced we are ing off of an 8-3 season at several positions. Collin during which the team Anthony is our only returnsuffered two regular seaing starter on the offensive son losses against Elbert line,” McFerrin said. County and North Oconee Luckily their most High School. Jefferson fell important role on the to Calhoun High School in field consists of a sharp the first round of the playveteran, but not just any offs. veteran. Senior Bryant With the remodeled reShirreffs is the standout gions, the Dragons have a quarterback who has topnew set of challengers in notch collegiate programs the 8AA class division, but wanting to add his name to shouldn’t have any probtheir roster, and at 6-footlems using their firepower to bolt past their new conShirreffs is the most highlighted athleted on the Dragons’ roster. 3, defensive units may ference opponents. Max- It will be exciting to see him play at a high level. His experience and have a serious dilemma in preps.com currently has talent will certainly be something to watch. Last season he threw for bringing him down. The JHS ranked ninth out of 1,873 yards and threw just 2 intercpetions. Those numbers should Atlanta Journal Constitution named Shirreffs to its 25 teams in the 8AA play- grow minus in int’s. First Team Preseason Alloff bracket, and JHS was State roster. just three spots shy of beShirreffs completed 227 ing ranked in the top 10 yards on Aug. 16 against among 8AA region teams Morgan County in a home by Georgia High School scrimmage match, and Network. those numbers alone are It seems as though the probably enough to solidDragons biggest flaw is ify him as the best quarternot the team, but rather a back in their new region. weak schedule that doesn’t His only issue may be give players enough comworking alongside an inpetition during the reguexperienced group of oflar season. Once the postfensive lineman. If the big season rolls around, the men upfront are having Dragons are faced with a an off day, Shirreffs will nightmare of stiffer comhave to be the workhorse petition and, without chalin order to find those open lenges during the regular gaps that his o-line may season to test their mettle, have trouble making. the team finds holding its “I hope a strength of own through the playoff Simonton was second on the team in defensive statistics following this team will be our passschedule to be a bit daunting. The only team that Kody McDonald. He is a smart and quick player that hunts down ing game on offense. We looks to give the Dragons interceptions and looks for big plays to make. If he can hold down have an outstanding QB in a little bit of trouble is the middle of the field, Simonton can really be a threat to opposing Bryant Shirreffs and some fine receivers. McKay Washington-Wilkes High running backs, and quarterbacks. Dickens, Donnie Hatfield School, which somehow and Isaiah Blake all have made it to the playoffs are supposed to win and that is huge - a game experience and have had a rewith a mere 5-6 record. winning attitude,” said McFerrin. A 10-0 record by the Dragons wouldn’t Even with the new realignment of ally good summer in the passing league be surprising, but devouring teams dur- schools in the 8AA conference, JHS has games. Other receivers we are counting ing the regular season may not prove some recognizable faces on their sched- on are Chandler Thompson, Trent Sorto be the best advantage for Jefferson ule and won’t have to worry about get- rell, Dalton Hill, Micah Carpenter, Chris when the postseason is in full swing. The ting a grip on a whole new set of teams. Nable and Rodney Carr. Receiver is the only other concern for the Dragons is “We’ve played Oglethorpe County, deepest position on the team,” said Mcsize on both sides of the ball. Rabun County, Riverside Military and Ferrin. Junior running back Tristen Jackson “I’m concerned about our lack of size Union County since I’ve been here in our offensive and defensive lines,” (since 2009). I know Washington-Wilkes put up a solid performance last season, said Head Coach T. McFerrin. is really strong. They have almost ev- and looks to be a threat on the ground JHS is a program where winning has eryone back and they are big and fast,” for the Dragons if he can return soon in time. He suffered a knee injury, but may pretty much been set in stone and, if all said McFerrin. be healthy enough to play soon. else fails, their hard work and winning “We hope Tristen Jackson can make habits should be enough to get the job a full recovery from his knee surgery done. and play by the second or third game,” “The positives about this team are Jefferson’s offensive front doesn’t McFerrin said. [that they have] very good attitudes, a willingness to work and they inherit a consist of too much experience on the tradition of winning so they think they front line, and Coach McFerrin ex- See JEFFERSON, page 7B

11 10 12 10 10 11 10 12 10 9 12 12 12 12 10 11 11 9 10 11 11 9 10 9 10 10 9 10 11 9 12 12 10 9 10 10 12 11 12 10 9 9 11 9 12 11 10 12 9 12 11 9 12 9 11 10 11 10 10 11 10 12 10 9 11 12 9 10 12 9 9 10 10 11 10 10 10 12 9 10 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 9

Senior quarterback Bryant Shirreffs

Senior sam linebacker Wesley Simonton

Offense

LOCATION OF JEFFERSON STADIUM 129

W as hin g Jefferson ton

High

2012 VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Date Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9

Opponent Commerce Jackson Co. North Hall Open Green Co. Washington-Wilkes Rabun County Oglethorpe Co. Social Circle Riverside Military Union Co.

JEFFERSON DANGEROUS DRAGONS

y. Pk

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By Latrice Williams lwilliams@ clickthepaper.com

Location Away Home Away

Time 8 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Away Home Away Home Away Home Home

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

t. Lee S

Stadium: Memorial Stadium Directions: Memorial Stadium is located off the Jefferson High campus. Take exit 137 on I-85N and turn right on Highway 129. Continue and make a left on Old Swimming

COACH’S RESUME ■ Has the fifth most wins in high school football in the state of Georgia ■ Has been the head coach of Jefferson for four years ■ Spent seven years at Elbert County and South Gwinnett High School ■ Won one state championship in 1995

THE BIG DATE: DRAGONS VS. COMMERCE There is nothing like a season opener against your rival, and the Dragons will have the opportunity to set the tone early against a regular season foe and prove that they are still one of the top teams in the new 8AA region to beat.

COACH’S STANDPOINT One of Coach T. McFerrin’s biggest concerns seems to be coaching a youthful team, but his guys knows the importance of their season, and don’t seem to make excuses because of their inexperience. “The positives about this team are [that they have] very good attitudes, a willingness to work and they inherit a tradition of winning so they think they are supposed to win and that is huge T. McFerrin - a winning attitude,” said McFerrin. “I hope a strength of this team will be our passing game on offense. We have an outstanding QB in Bryant Shirreffs and some fine receivers. McKay Dickens, Donnie Hatfield and Isaiah Blake all have game experience and have had a really good summer in the passing league games. Other receivers we are counting on are Chandler Thompson, Trent Sorrell, Dalton Hill, Micah Carpenter, Chris Nable and Rodney Carr. Receiver is the deepest position on the team,” stated McFerrin.

CMYK 2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

BIG PLAYS AND WINNING WAYS

JEFFERSON from page 6B

Continuing the tradition

Latrice Williams The Paper

The Jefferson High School varsity team has a short practice on Aug. 24, one week before their season road opener at Commerce. The Dragons will have an interesting season in the new 8AA region.

DEFENSE On the defensive side, the Dragons return sam linebacker Wesley Simonton who looks to be the leader, as does Kody McDonald. McDonald registered 70 tackles, 107 assisted tackles, two sacks and eight tackles for loss last year. Simonton followed with 70 tackles, 44 assists, two sacks and six tackles for loss. “[In] the secondary, we lost all four starters from last year,” said McFerrin. “Our linebacker corps of Wesley Simonton, Kody McDonald and Tyler Bowen has experience and we hope they can have a great year,” McFerrin stated. McDonald says he is looking forward to setting an example for the younger players on defense to follow, as well making sure the team knows how to correspond effectively with each other. “I’m just trying to be the best leader I can be. We are really young this year. I think what we make up for in our age is our talent,” said McDonald. McDonald registered seven tackles in his senior debut against Morgan County, and gave everyone a glimpse of what the Dragons defense can do. “I think we exceeded what we anticipated. In my opinion, we performed well against them. We did have some errors here and there,

Latrice Williams The Paper

The Jefferson Dragons work on their new offensive schemes during practice earlier this summer in preparation for the season. but it’s nothing that can’t be fixed,” said McDonald. “As a defensive unit, we just need to communicate really well, and personally, I just need to be the best leader I can be,” said McDonald

SPECIAL TEAMS The kicking game is always

an essential part of football, and it looks like the Dragons will have a one-man band to perform all of their kicking duties. There is no doubt that Chandler Schlutow will have big shoes to fill, and will have to have a strong leg and foot to get through a long season. “Our kickoff specialist, Chandler Schlutow is back, and he will probably be our

punter and PAT/field goal guy also,” McFerrin stated. Against MCHS, he looked pretty solid at his position, but will need a lot of stamina. “At the scrimmage game, I definitely got tired pretty easy, but everything went well,” said Schlutow. Schlutow is going to have to stay healthy as he will be looked to for dependability

through a long season that could include a playoff run.

OUTLOOK The Dragons problems will more than likely come during the postseason. With a favorable schedule, JHS needs to meet their match early on in order to get a feel

for what the playoffs might be like. This team could easily turn into the best that never was. The Dragons don’t need an easy breezy regular season schedule that ensures a playoff berth, because there’s a big chance they could be cut short in the first round.

CMYK 8B

2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

Young, eager Panthers

By Latrice Williams lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

Dragons bring A-game “It’s all good,” were about the only words that senior offensive lineman Ethan Hix said when asked about his new duties as the shield that will protect quarterback Bryant Shirreffs. His response may have been funny, but the fantastic five are serious about their obligation. Every year, coaches are forced to say good-bye to their senior class, which in most cases, consists of a group of guys that had plenty of experience, talent, and leadership. When that time comes, that hardest part is filling those open positions with guys who may not be skilled as the ones before them. For the Dragons of Jefferson High School, replacing the majority of the starting offensive line was something Head Coach Todd McFerrin knew he had to do, but with the uncertainty of not knowing how things would turn out. Fans had a chance to get a glimpse of the crew in their scrimmage meeting against Morgan County High School on Aug. 16. The first few bloopers on the Bulldogs end gave the line a much needed boost of confidence, but when Bulldogs defense started settling down, the Dragons found themselves stuck in the dungeon for a little while.

Collin Anthony is one of the veterans on the front line and looks to help anchor the youthful and raw group in practice and in games. “It’s different. I’ve played with the same guys with the last three years, and they’ve all graduated but [now] we have a younger class of guys coming up. I just have to kind of lead them and show them the way,” said Anthony. The team has had a bonding

experience that should help them practice and perform well on game days. Connor Nations is in his fourth year with the Dragons and is looking forward to being a starter. “I feel like we’ve bonded really well. We all worked really hard this summer, and we are

getting along really well,” said Nations. “I’ve been here for four years and I am just now starting so I got to do what I go to do,” said Nations. The duties of an offensive lineman seem pretty simple when said, but defensive linemen can be brutal, and will do whatever they can to get the quarterback in a hurry. Protecting Shirreffs is a tall order, but this squad knows their role not allowing anyone to get to him. “We practice that everyday. We’re working on protecting [the quarterback] and that’s the main objective,” said Jordan Tyler. Not only do they have to provide security to the qb, but they’ve also got to open up holes for their running backs to get to. It doesn’t sound like an easy task, but the repetitions in during the week should have them well prepared on Friday nights. “[The] coach made us all work hard on technique and gap responsibility,” said Eli Griffin. If this untested group of linemen can work together efficiently, the rest of the offense should come together well for the Dragons and allow them to pile on the points.

Just a few months ago, Logan Trevor was finishing up classes in middle school, and has now become the front runner for the field goal and kick off duties for the Panthers. Trevor is definitely not intimidated by his role; in fact, he is looking forward to being in a critical situation where it is down to the wire and the game relies solely on his foot. “I like pressure. I’m a soccer player and I’ve been in that situation in soccer before,” said Trevor. Trevor is also a member of the junior varsity soccer team, a sport that he has played the majority of his life. Converting from soccer to football sounds like an easy transition, and he should have a great deal of strength in his leg. However when it comes to this game, kicking with a high level of elevation is something that Trevor is unfamiliar with, but willing to put as much work into being successful in his position and doesn’t seem to the feel the pressure. “[When in the game] I just pretend like

it’s practice. You just have to get your steps right. You have to count your steps so you can be consistent, and then you just want to aim low on the ball and try not to overpower it,” said Trevor. It’s not everyday that an athlete has a chance to become a four-year starter, but Trevor has an opportunity to capture that title if continues to mature in his position.

Hawks on a mission for success Being a relentless athlete is probably one of the most talked about conversations between coaches and players. Giving up is easy, but for the Hawks, pushing through every play is what is going to keep them together. On the defensive side, Kelsey Griffin has emerged into a successful playmaker and has learned to be more patient and not allow frustrating situations to get the best of him. “He’s matured so much. He understands his role, but also as coaches we are not going to leave him out there to get tripled teamed. If we put him out there on the end we can get him that one on one time. He’s always had a high motor. He used to get frustrated in the past. He’s never been a selfish player. He was cheering everybody on. I think now he understands the big picture,” said Jarvis. Linebacker Patrick Dike brings leadership and experience to the linebackers and

with his speed, he should be able to guide the rest of the players in the backfield, and should have a great performance this season. He registered 27 tackles last season, including 18 solo and nine assisted tackles, as well as 1 fumble recovery. If the linebackers, corners, and safety can stop the run and shutdown and/or break up passes, the Hawks defense can have an unstoppable defense. “If we are on the back side of a play, we have to make sure we don’t take any breaks and go full speed,” said Dike. The wide receivers will have a tough task in being able to bring in big catches, but Matthew Pursell is confident that through their skills and team bonding, the receivers should be able to put on a show. “We came together over the summer and got closer. We have more experience and are getting better every day. We are not taking a day off,” said Pursell.

2012 High School Football Preview

The Paper | Thursday, August 30, 2012

North Hall High School East Hall High School Trojans aiming for a return to postseason

Vikings aim to continue their upward trend

BY DAVID MITCHELL sports@gainesvilletimes.com

The past two seasons have strayed from the norm for North Hall under coach Bob Christmas. In 2010, a streak of eight consecutive winning seasons came to an end when the team notched a 5-5 record. Last year, the Trojans endured their first losing record since 2001. But with a change in scenery in the new Region 7-AAA comes renewed hope for North Hall. The Trojans have to contend with Buford, which has won four of the last five Class AA state titles, but they can also count themselves among a number of teams that should contend for one of the remaining playoff spots. And when the dust settles, they hope to be playing in their first postseason since 2009.

Offense Key to the Trojans’ success this season will be how they adjust to the loss of one of the state’s best running backs, Imani Cross, who will be suiting up for the University of Nebraska this fall. Christmas said that it is more a matter of adjustment rather than replacement. “There’s a reason he’s at the University of Nebraska,” he said. “He was a big, talented back who had a lot of skills. I don’t know that you replace an Imani, but here’s what we do have: I think we’ve got 8-10 really good high school running backs. We have a good mix in age, none of them huge in size, but they’ve got good strength and good quickness.” The Trojans will miss Caleb Faulkner, who transferred to Lakeview Academy, but David Epps and Destin Bennett will be primary figures at the fullback position. Bradley Brown will return at quarterback for the Trojans, and Christmas is pleased with the progress the senior has made. The coach said that he didn’t know that he would have his team throw the ball more, but the strides that Brown has made should allow for the offense to go to the pass more often when defenses focus on the run. “We always want to take what the defense gives us, so there may be times where we throw it more,” he said. “But the ability

to throw the ball down the field when they give it to us is important.” Also returning on offense will be senior center Avery Easton, who will be an important piece to opening up the run game.

Defense Last season was a mix of good and bad for the Trojans defense. There were games, like the 49-0 win over Lumpkin County, in which the Trojans appeared to have everything settled. Other times, like when they allowed 55 points to Gainesville or 54 to Franklin County, when it appeared North Hall had a long way to go. The common theme among the teams that had success against the Trojans was superior athleticism at the skill positions. Christmas hopes to see an improvement against those teams by increasing pressure. The defense features a handful of players that should make that possible. Undersized but athletic cornerback Andrew Smith leads a defensive backfield that could allow for more freedom to pressure up front. Smith notched three interceptions in 2011 as a sophomore and should be improved this season. Destin Bennett, who led the team in tackles for a loss last year, and Taylor Rider will lead the charge at linebacker. Despite the loss of Cross, who lead the team in tackles, Bennett and Rider have the experience to make 2012’s an improved unit. “This year, we have a good mix between juniors and seniors, and I think that makes a huge difference in consistency,” Christmas said. “Young players can play really well, but they aren’t always consistent.” The coach would also like to see his team stay healthier this year to improve continuity. A result of last year’s injuries, however, is that a number of sophomores — Bennett, Smith and Will Cape to name a few — saw plenty of playing time.

Special teams Modesto Cruz will return as the kicker this season, while Zac Little and Bradley Brown will contend for the punter job.

see NORTH HALL, page 10B

Flowery Branch High School Falcons expect to keep rolling with new coach BY ZAC TAYLOR ztaylor@gainesvilletimes.com It’s all anybody wants to talk about, but it’s also not until November. “Everybody wants to talk about Gaines-

ville, but we have nine games before then,” said Flowery Branch coach Chris Griffin, who admitted that it will be the resumption of a great county rivalry when it finally occurs.

see Flowery, page 10B

Building continuity is an annual struggle for East Hall, which breaks in a number of new players on a yearly basis. Despite the difficulties, however, the Vikings were able to battle to five wins in 2011, falling just a play-in win short of the playoffs. This season, East Hall will have to replace its two leading producers on offense, Cameron Davis and Jamond Witt. Witt graduated and Davis transferred to Flowery Branch. But that doesn’t mean coach Bryan Gray expects a drop-off in the team’s success. The team returns six starters on offense and eight on defense, and Gray expects new playmakers to fill holes. “We feel like we’re in a good position,” he said. “I think we’ve got a lot of good players that will certainly keep us in contention.

Offense When it comes to the offensive side of the ball, Gray says the team is going to improve in the passing game. “There’s no doubt about it,” he said. “That’s been our focus. We want to improve the passing game to open up our running game.” That will begin, obviously, at quarterback, where Zach Groover and Devin Watson are competing for the starting spot. Groover was originally slated to be the team’s starter in 2011 until an injury opened the door for Davis. Gray said that one of those two, along with a stable of talented wide receivers, should actually help the team take a step forward. Austen Mahaffey and Edward Vergara, third and fourth on the team in rushing last season, will be back to lead a deep corps of tailbacks. Quay Jarrels, Dre Brawner, Corey Reece and Juwan Merritt will also see plenty of carries.

It will be tough to replace the athletic Witt, but Gray sees plenty of talent in the backfield. “I think we’ll be better for being able to rotate them in and out,” he said. Senior Devonte Benton will help open up holes for those runners. Gray said he believes Benton could be one of the most sought-after offensive linemen in North Georgia by season’s end. Braden Jarrard, a four-year starter, will also play a significant role on the line.

Defense A defense which returns most of the starters has Gray feeling optimistic about the Vikings’ chances on that side of the ball. “We’ve got a quiet excitement about them,” he said. “They’re very athletic and run extremely well. All the kids playing have either started or logged a lot of time. “You can’t be successful without some experience.” He’s hoping that experience will help the Vikings continue to progress. Benton and Cody Andrews, along with Xavier Hughey and Dustin Rogers will comprise a strong defensive front. Isaac Mize will help man the defensive backfield. Rogers and Andrews are each four-year starters, which Gray says is significant. “Understanding what people are doing and being able to adjust is important,” he said. “You have to have kids who are confident in their techniques and fundamentals. You can’t just throw them out there and let them play.” Gray said the defensive line will need work simply because it lost the most from last season.

Special teams Hugo Contreras will handle the kicking

see East HALL, page 10B