This Week:
Sports
Issue 35
Volume 10
From the Oconee to the Apalachee
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Army
All-American Page 4
ONLINE
ROB PEECHER/Oconee Leader
Students from both Oconee County Middle School and Malcom Bridge Middle School last week got to visit with area professionals to learn more about the sorts of jobs they might enter in the future during the annual 8th grade Career Fair. Above: Monique Sanders (left) and Nguyen Dinh (center) of Noramco Inc., talk to MBMS students Cameryn Ekeler and Nellie Gates. See Page 3 for the story, and visit theoconeeleader.com for additional photos from the Career Fair.
Photo Gallery
Career Fair
theoconeeleader.com
Chappelles hosting open house this weekend BY MIKE SPRAYBERRY The Oconee Leader
ONLINE
Photo Gallery
UGA Senior Night theoconeeleader.com
SCHOOLS
Athens Academy
Day of Service Page 3
Chappelle Gallery and Happy Valley Pottery will hold annual Holiday Open Houses Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 27 29. Chappelle Gallery’s Open House will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each of those days while Happy Valley Pottery’s Open House will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Kathy Chappelle, owner of both, described what visitors to either event might expect. “We have a total of seventeen artists’ exhibits at Happy Valley Pottery,” said Chappelle. “We have several potters, glass-blowing, painting, bath products, jewelers, candles and metal. We will also have demonstrations in pottery-making, raku-firing and glassblowing. “At Chappelle Gallery, we have over 125 local and national craft artists. We have a large variety of pottery, blown infused glass, wood, jewelry, painted silk, clothing, photography, paintings, drawings, candles, bath products and
more. Refreshments will be served at both places.” Chappelle Gallery will be open seven days a week beginning on the 27th. Other offerings unique to the Open House weekend include extra artists and demonstrations not typically featured. “We’ve got an extra artist at Happy Valley only for that weekend,” said Chappelle. “Everything will pretty much be set up in the studio and Loretta (Eby) has her studio open with the glass-blowing. Over at Winterhawk Studio, Mark Waller is going to be doing coin ring demonstrations. Erica Galloway is supposed to be doing pottery-making demonstrations and Joe Callaway doing raku-firing. “Chappelle Gallery will have some new blown glass yard art from Whidbey Island in Washington State and we’ve got some new pottery by Fired Up Pottery from Oregon. We’ll also have some new ‘Open House’ Page 2
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FILE PHOTO
At last year’s annual open house at Happy Valley Pottery, Kim Wright looks through a box of blown glass she bought from Loretta Eby.
Santa Claus is coming to town: Tree lighting, parade BY MIKE SPRAYBERRY The Oconee Leader
A weekend of Christmas activities kicks off in downtown Watkinsville the night of Friday, December 4 with the lighting of the Watkinsville Christmas Tree and continues the following morning with the Watkinsville Christmas Parade. The City of Watkinsville will light the Christmas tree at a ceremony from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 4. The Watkinsville Christmas Parade begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 5. The Welcome Center will also have a Charles Dickens Christmas Village on display throughout the holiday season and the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation Holiday Market begins Friday, December 4 at 5 p.m. and runs through Sunday, December 6 at 5 p.m. “Santa Claus will be here,” said Watkinsville Mayor Charles Ivie of Friday night’s tree lighting festivities. “He’s making a special trip
FILE PHOTO
At last year’s tree lighting in Watkinsville, Trey Danis showed Santa that what he wanted for Christmas were his two front teeth.
into town and we have made special arrangements for he and Mrs. Claus to stay at Ashford Manor. “The Watkinsville Trade and Tourism Association is furnishing cookies and hot chocolate will be provided by Oconee State Bank.
There will be two church choirs and the Oconee County High School Chorus providing entertainment.” According to Ivie, the city expects a crowd of 1,500 to 2,000 people.
“It’s always a tremendous crowd. The highlight is the small children, excited about the tree lighting up and getting in that long line for Santa and Mrs. Claus. It’s an exciting time to be in Watkinsville.” The tree lighting ceremony will replace what would normally be the city’s “First Friday” activities, said Ivie, and takes place on the only 55 square feet of property the city owns downtown, a patch of land in front of the Dolvin Building and across Main Street from the Oconee County Courthouse where a city water tower once stood. Now, the spot is home to the city’s everexpanding Christmas tree. “The tree is about 25 feet tall and 15 feet in circumference,” Ivie said of the city’s permanent “green giant” Christmas tree. “It’s growing. It’s been there for three years and it has probably grown 5 feet. It’s getting so big that we had to ‘Tree Lighting’ Page 3
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Page 2
Thursday, November 26, 2015
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Local 4-H’ers attend Junior Conference Academy teachers recognized
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
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Oconee County 4-H members recently participated in Georgia 4-H Junior Conference, “Honoring America Through 4-H” held at Rock Eagle 4-H Center. The 7th and 8thgrade members took part in leadership training, workshops and several service projects for troops and pop tab collection for the Ronald McDonald House. Andrew Guthrie was awarded the People’s Choice Award for his exhibit on health in the Exhibit Fair.Pictured above, front (left to right) Annie Stephenson, Clary Eidell, Neely McCommons, Olivia Johnson and Camille Stephenson; back: Andrew Guthrie, Alicia Carnes, Grayson Yount, Campbell Hancock and Amelia Sale.
‘Open House’
crystalline pottery by Bill Campbell from Pennsylvania. And, of course, all of our local artists. We have a lot of new things in.” Kathy Chappelle and her husband Jerry started Happy Valley Pottery in 1970 and the annual Holiday Open House was a tradition almost immediately. “This is our 44th annual Holiday Open House and Sale out there,” she said. “It’s kind of a traditional thing that we’ve done and enjoy, and our customers look forward to it. We’ve been getting lots of calls from people already making sure it is still going on and checking the dates.” The Chappelles were recently awarded a Governor’s Award for Arts and Humanities by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal for their work in the county and state arts commu-
Continued from the Front nity. Chappelle Gallery was also awarded two Readers’ Choice Awards by the Athens Banner-Herald as the Best Gift Shop in the Athens area and the Best Watkinsville Shop for 2015. Chappelle Gallery is located at 25 South Main Street in Watkinsville in the historic 1820 Haygood House. For more information on Chappelle Gallery’s Holiday Open House, call 706-310-0985. Happy Valley Pottery is located at 1210 Carson-Graves Road in Watkinsville. For more information on Happy Valley Pottery’s Holiday Open House, call 706-7695922. Mike Sprayberry is a reporter for The Oconee Leader.
Five members of the Athens Academy faculty and staff were recently recognized for 25 years of service in independent schools by the Georgia Independent School Association. They are (left to right): John Thorsen, Kevin Petroski, Virginia Stutsman, Sally Harris, and Joe Tillman.
Five members of the Athens Academy faculty and staff have been recognized by the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) for their outstanding work in independent schools. Sally Harris, Kevin Petroski, Virginia Stutsman, John Thorsen, and Joe Tillman each received the Distinguished Service Award for having dedicated at least 25 years of service to independent education. Sally Harris holds the distinction in this group of having been at Athens Academy for the entire 25 years of her career in independent education. She joined the Upper School humanities department in 1991 and has taught European history as well as government, Middle Eastern studies, and Global Challenges. Over the years she has served as an advisor, faculty sponsor of The Spartan Review and Interact, coordinator of service learning, and grade level coordinator for the freshman and sophomore classes. Sally has Bachelor of Education and Master of Education degrees from The University of Georgia. She plans to retire at the end of this year in order to travel with husband Ernie. Athletic Director Kevin Petroski is in his eleventh year at Athens Academy and has served as athletic director since 2008. He previously held positions at Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School, Southwest Georgia Academy, and Thomas Jefferson Academy. A native of Albany, Georgia, Coach Petroski received a B.S. Ed from The University of Georgia and an M.A. from Concordia University. Virginia Stutsman began her career in independent education in 1983 at the Greenhill School in Dallas, Texas. She came to Athens Academy in 1987, where she served for fourteen years in different capacities including art and social studies teacher, extended day/enrichment programs coordinator, summer programs director, and assistant to the athletic and admissions director.
Virginia and her husband Nick relocated to Macon in 2001, and she taught at Tattnall Square Academy for two years. Returning to Athens, Virginia helped open Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School in 2004, serving as assistant principal, director of admissions, and director of student affairs until 2011. This fall she returned to Athens Academy as the athletic department assistant. Virginia has a bachelor’s degree in art education from Auburn University, a Master of Arts Education degree from The University of Georgia, and a Master’s of Educational Leadership and Supervision from Mercer University. She and husband Nick have two sons, both of whom graduated from Athens Academy. Head of School John Thorsen came to Athens Academy in 2014. He began his career in independent education in 1991 and has worked in admissions and development at Darlington School (Georgia), Mercersburg Academy (Pennsylvania), Francis Parker School (California), and, most recently, Asheville School (North Carolina). John has a B.A. in economics from Washington and Lee University and an M.Ed. in institutional advancement from Vanderbilt University. He and wife Laura have three children at Athens Academy. Joe Tillman began his career in education in 1991 at St. Edward’s School in Vero Beach, Florida, where he taught for one year before coming to Athens Academy. He has served as history teacher in the Middle School for 24 years, and was also assistant director of the Middle School from 1995-2003. During his time at Athens Academy he coached Middle School boys’ soccer and football, and he currently coaches Middle School girls’ basketball. Joe and wife Trish have three daughters, one an alumna of Athens Academy and the younger two in the fifth grade.
OCAF’s annual Holiday Market to be held December 4 - 6
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation’s Annual Holiday Market will open December 4th, offering gift-buyers an opportunity to select unique art and crafts objects from 70 of the region’s most gifted artists. The market will include pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass, jewelry, sculpture, photography, woodwork, and more. In addition, more than 50 OCAF member artists will be represented in the Artists’ Shoppe. Also available will be tasty home-made treats offered in the Golden Pear Bakery (all baked by OCAF members) and much sought after Greek pastries from the kitchens of St PhilotheaPhiloptochos Society members (proceeds go toward the church’s charitable outreach program).The Market is open Friday, Dec.4, from 5 to 9p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 7, 10a.m. to 5p.m. Admission for all three days is $3 for adults – children under 16 are free – and there is plenty of free parking. The Artists’ Shoppe will remain open Tuesday through Saturday, 10a.m. to 4p.m., through December 19. OCAF invites the community to join them for this festive holiday tradition and find those perfect, unique gifts. For more information visit OCAF.com, email info@ocaf.com, or call 706-769-4565.
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Thursday, November 26, 2015 Page 3
Career Fair offers students a look at future options BY ROB PEECHER The Oconee Leader
For middle school students in eighth grade, their future careers may seem an eternity away, but on Friday, students from both Malcom Bridge Middle School and Oconee County Middle School got a glimpse into what that future might look like. More than two dozen local businesses and high school clubs participated in this year’s Eighth Grade Career Fair, where students from the two middle schools had an opportunity to talk to professionals from various career fields. The career fair was set up at the Oconee County Civic Center, and students were able to visit booths set up by the various businesses and clubs. Students were able to find out about the skills needed in different industries and learn from professionals about the education backgrounds that helped them get into their fields. MBMS Principal Amy Perry said the annual career fair, put on by the high school guidance departments, is beneficial even for students who are so far from starting careers. “One thing the career fair does for our eight grade students is it gets them thinking about making decisions about the courses to take in high school,” Perry said. “Our goal is to expose them to the
ROB PEECHER/Oconee Leader
Kristi Greer (right) of Oconee State Bank talks about jobs in banking with Malcom Bridge eighth graders Reese Aspinwall (left) and Kate Meade (center) at the 8th Grade Career Fair.
opportunities that are available to them. We expose them to various businesses and industry, and it helps them to make more informed decisions about what they might do later in life. “Our business partners are wonderful to support us,” Perry said.
Representatives from clubs at both North Oconee and Oconee County high schools also set up booths and talked to the eighth graders about clubs they can join when they get to high school. Anna Cisse, a junior at North Oconee High School, is only
‘Tree lighting’ Continued from the Front Be sure to look online after the parade to see dozens of photographs from Watkinsville’s tree lighting and the annual Oconee County Christmas Parade.
three years removed from when she came to the career fair as an eighth grader. But on Friday, Anna was representing the North Oconee Future Business Leaders of America club. “When I was in eighth grade and I came to the career fair, the
high schoolers seemed like they had this mighty position, but meeting them at career fair is what influenced me to join FBLA,” Anna recalled. “So I’m talking to the eighth graders today about how helpful the school clubs are when they get to high school for the social aspect and for what you can learn.” Anna said FBLA helps students learn about both entrepreneurship and interactive media. Through entrepreneurship, students learn about some of the requirements for starting a business, Anna explained, and interactive media involves learning about graphic design and other similar skills. Anna said joining FBLA her freshman year helped her make new friends and get acclimated to high school. Reese Aspinwall, an eighth grader at MBMS, said her mother is a teacher at North Oconee, and Reese said she aspires to follow in her mother’s footsteps. Nevertheless, she said she thought the career fair was beneficial for her and the other eighth grade students who attended. “I think it is a good experience because it lets us see the different careers we might decide to get into,” Reese said. “My mom is a teacher, and I want to be a teacher, but I was really interested in healthcare.”
Academy students, faculty perform day of service
theoconeeleader.com bring in a bucket truck to decorate it.” The Oconee County Board of Education supplied the bucket truck for the Mayor, his wife Carol, and the Watkinsville Street Department to decorate the tree. “There will be in excess of 2,500 LED lights on it and about 60 feet of 12-inch ribbon,” said Ivie. “I don’t think we’re putting ornaments on it this year, just to switch it up and do something different, but when we do, there are probably 500 or more ornaments.” The morning after the Christmas Tree lighting, December 5, the Watkinsville Christmas Parade starts at 11 a.m., but Oconee County Tourism Director Peggy Holcomb said participants and spectators start lining up as early as 9:30 a.m. “There are over one hundred entries,” said Holcomb. “There are a lot of tractors. Those little boys have their eyes wide open for a while watching all the tractors. And Santa Claus comes at the end of the parade to wish everyone a Merry Christ-
mas.” The Christmas Village at the Welcome Center should be on display well in advance of the weekend’s events, Holcomb said. “The Christmas Village should be up, finished and lit by Thanksgiving night. There are thousands of pieces of the Dickens Christmas Village. One of our volunteers, Maria Caudill has it and she and her husband have put it up for the last five years. We leave it on at night and when we come back the next morning, there are fingerprints and nose prints on the windows from children looking at it at night. There are a lot of moving parts to it.” The OCAF Holiday Market will also take place in the OCAF building and Rocket Hall Friday, December 4 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, December 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mike Sprayberry is a reporter for The Oconee Leader.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Close to 400 students and faculty members fanned out across Athens last Friday, November 13, as part of the 17th annual Service Day. Student leaders conceived, planned, and implemented 17 different service projects, working with local organizations, schools, and businesses around the community. Over 2,200 service hours were logged during this one day by 331 students and 50 faculty members. Among the projects, students volunteered to help with the Special Olympics, while others worked with a local preschool; some prepared Thanksgiving meals with the Salvation Army and other sorted food at the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia. A musical group performed at area nursing homes and some held a fashion show, luncheon and auction to raise money for local groups. Pictured above, Nick Fernandez and Jack McLanahan helped at Butterfly Dreams Farm, a local group that provides hippotherapy for children with disabilities.
This Week:
Warriors
WARRIORS TITANS SPARTANS WOLVERINES LIONS
Thursday, November 26, 2015
University of Georgia football Senior Day for Oconee County graduate John Huff
Huff suits up Between the Hedges one final time BY MATTHEW CALDWELL The Oconee Leader
Wrestling
Home victories Page 8
Wolverines
Football
Advance Page 5
“Say I can’t.” It’s a message Oconee County graduate John Huff’s father Dr. Kelly Huff has written on the front of the red shirt he wears to Georgia Bulldog games. “Say I can’t” comes from a poster John had in fourth grade. He said the whole message was, “Say I can’t. I shouldn’t even try. Tell me I won’t. Tell me it’s impossible. Tell me the risk is too high, the challenge too great. The feat too tough. Tell me I will never make it. Say I will never make it. And I will.” The author wasn’t listed on the poster but the message has inspired Huff his whole life. Huff always knew he wanted to be on Georgia’s football team, and that was cemented even more to him with the 2006 Chick-fil-A MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Above, John Huff is joined by head coach Mark Richt, father Dr. Kelly Huff, mother Rita Huff, sister Laura Huff, grandfather W.R. Huff and grandmother Mary Lynn Huff for UGA’s Senior Day festivities last Saturday at Sanford Stadium. Left, Huff celebrates after UGA’s 23-17 win in overtime.
Warriors
Bowl when he won a contest to retrieve the kickoff tee at the Georgia Dome, a game won by Georgia against Virginia Tech. Georgia kicker Andy Bailey also thought Huff was stealing the kickoff tee. “I always knew I wanted to play here, even before that, but especially after the Chick-fil-A Bowl,” Huff said. “I got a taste of it and a taste of being on the field in a big atmosphere. It has been really cool that 10 years later I am finishing up my career at Georgia. It’s pretty cool.” In an interview last year with The Oconee Leader, Huff said he “knew it was going to be a tough task. I had a lot of people that told me that I couldn’t do it. I had a lot of road blocks along the way.” Through all of the road blocks he went through and
Football
Season ends Page 6
Spartans
More online...
For photos of Senior Day events, the crowning of the new Uga and game shots of Georgia’s win against Georgia Southern, see theoconeeleader.com people telling him he can’t, Huff has done it. Huff walked on and has been a member of the University of Georgia football team in each of the last two seasons. Last Saturday night was their final home game at Sanford Stadium this season and it was Senior Night for the Bulldogs. Huff, a senior at UGA, was joined on the field with his parents, sister and grandparents as each senior got called out on the loudspeaker and ran onto the field individually. Each senior on the team received footballs with their name
on it and their families posed for photos with head coach Mark Richt prior to the win. “It is still a little bit surreal to me,” Huff said. “It seems like just yesterday I joined the team. Now here I am two years later and it’s all over at Sanford Stadium. It will probably hit me when I get home tonight. I am just thankful for the experience I have had here and for all of the people I have come into contact with.” Huff said he was thankful ‘Huff’ Page 9
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Oconee County’s Jaleel Laguins recognized by U.S. Army
Laguins named to U.S. Army All-American Bowl BY MATTHEW CALDWELL
Football
Season ends Page 7
Upcoming
Isaac Krumm, Robert Wylie, Emily Soles, Skylar Sparr and Caroline Allen all recently signed to play their respective sports in college. Their stories will be featured in an upcoming edition of The Oconee Leader.
The Oconee Leader
Ninety of the top high school football players in the country will be in San Antonio on January 9, 2016 for the U.S. Army AllAmerican Bowl. Several current and former NFL players played in the game while they were in high school. In January, one of Oconee County’s own will be on the field when the game kicks off on national television. Oconee County High School senior Jaleel Laguins was selected to play in the game. Members of the U.S. Army were at the school last week for a program recognizing Laguins and presenting him with a game jersey while
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For a photo gallery of the ceremony for Jaleel Laguins being named to the U.S. Army AllAmerican Bowl, see theoconeeleader.com has family, coaches and entire school looked on. “It’s a blessing, an answered prayer, to be mentioned among some of these people who will be greats, like Nick Chubb. To be able ‘Laguins’ Page 7
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Jaleel Laguins
Page 5
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Thursday, November 26, 2015
Prince Avenue Christian football
Wolverines advance after dominating FPD 41-7 BY CAITLYN STROH The Oconee Leader
After shaking hands with the opposing team, Prince Avenue football players took off in a dead sprint to the student section to high five and celebrate with fellow students, friends and family. Prince Avenue Christian (11-0) downed First Presbyterian Day School (6-5) 41-7 in the first round of
the Class A state playoffs on Friday night. And the celebration was on. “I’ve always felt the further you go in playoffs, the less pressure there is,” head coach Jeff Herron said. “You don’t want to go 10-0 and come out here and lose in the first round. I think our team and our coaches knew there was a lot of pressure on us tonight and I
think it showed a little bit, but we were able to overcome it and we’re able to play again next week.” The shutout first half began with a fourth-down stop by the Wolverines’ defense when the Vikings’ high snap turned into a big tackle for loss. Prince Avenue’s offense capitalized on the field position when Please see ‘PACS football’ Page 7
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Watkinsville
Advertise here this holiday season! Call Cathy Humphries at 706-540-6949
Photo by AJ Reynolds
Prince Avenue's Jordan Ginnel (2) and Prince Avenue's Dalton Owens (72) celebrate after a turnover on downs during the first half of a GHSA A-Private playoff football game between Prince Avenue Christian and First Presbyterian last Friday.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
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Page 6
Oconee County football
Warriors’ season ends with loss in second round to Cedar Grove BY MATTHEW CALDWELL
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The Oconee Leader
Cedar Grove had four big plays in the third quarter and that proved to be the difference as the Saints defeated Oconee County 2814 last Friday night at North Oconee in the second round of the Class AAA state tournament. The first big play came on second-and-goal from the 1-yard line for the Warriors, who were leading 7-0 at the time thanks to Zeb Noland’s 32-yard touchdown pass to Corderius Paschal with 10:50 left in the second quarter. Noland tried to get over the line and into the end zone but the ball came loose, Cedar Grove recovered it in the end zone and returned it to its own 41 after a penalty on the Warriors. The second big play came on the second play of that drive – a 51-yard run that set up a short touchdown run to tie the game at 7-7. The Warriors responded on their next drive, which started on the Cedar Grove 37 thanks to a failed onsides kick attempt. The Warriors drove the Saints’ 3-yard line and on fourthand-one from the 3, Jaleel Laguins carried the ball into the end zone to give the Warriors a 14-7 lead. Moments later on the second play of the ensuing drive for Cedar Grove, the Saints hit a 81-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 14-14 for their third big play of the quarter. The Warriors were held to a three-and-out on their next drive, and the Saints
For a photo gallery of Oconee County’s playoff games, see theoconeeleader.com.
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Head coach Travis Noland hugs sons Zeb Noland and Abe Noland following Oconee County’s season-ending loss to Cedar Grove last Friday at North Oconee.
hit a 60-yard touchdown pass and took a 22-14 lead after a successful two-point conversion. Cedar Grove put the game away with a touchdown with 3:30 left in the game. “We knew that they could score one of those inside runs at any time because that is what they do. They are a very explosive, big, physical football team. Our defense played really well, even to the last snap,” said head coach Travis Noland. “I thought our kids fought extremely hard all night long. I am proud of their effort. It’s just disappointing that we weren’t able to finish for our program and our community.” Following the game, Noland and his son Zeb
hugged near the 25-yard line before Zeb and brother Abe Noland walked to the locker room together. “It was hard. Trying to hold it together. He’s been with me since he was 5years old on the field,” Coach Noland said. “It’s hard.” The Warriors finished the season 9-3 overall and won the Region 8-AAA championship, their first since 2004, after being picked to finish fifth this season. The nine wins are the most the program has had in a single season since they won 11 in 2001. They went 8-4 and reached the second round last season as the No. 4 seed from the region in Coach Noland’s first season at Oconee. “I am very proud of how
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far our kids have come,” Coach Noland said. “You either live up to your own expectations or you live down to others’. These guys set their goal to be a region champ and they did the things necessary to do that. I am very proud of what they were able to do because not a lot of people thought we were going to be very good. It’s a testament to their commitment to each other and to the program. “I can’t say enough about (the seniors). They have set a standard for everybody that comes behind them. They have done a great job of leading. It’s a special group of guys. They are very unselfish and I am very proud of what they have done.”
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Corderious Paschal leaped to make a 32-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter to give the Warriors a 7-0 lead at the time.
Page 7
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Thursday, November 26, 2015
Athens Academy football
Season comes to an end for Spartans in first round BY NICOLE SAAVEDRA The Oconee Leader
Throughout the regular season, Athens Academy prided itself on its balanced offense. But in a 22-14 loss to visiting Christian Heritage (65) in the first round of the Class A Private playoffs Friday, the Spartans (9-2) had little opportunity to show it off. Athens Academy ran just 13 plays in the first half, while Christian Heritage mounted three drives that chewed up nearly 20 minutes of playing time and resulted in one 2-yard touchdown from Ahmaad Turner. After a lost fumble ended a potential scoring drive, the Spartans blocked a field goal attempt to keep the Lions lead at seven points.
“We have a lot of kids that play both ways and any time those kids are on the field, we try to play sort of uptempo, try to go fast,” Athens Academy coach Josh Alexander said. “We ran 13 plays in the first half. Any time you do that to any team, it takes you out of rhythm.” The Spartans tallied two touchdowns in the third quarter to take a 14-7 lead. The first came off a 13-yard run from Drew Richardson, but the extra point attempt was blocked. Will Corry punched in a 9-yard touchdown with under 30 seconds left in the quarter. Richardson connected with Ed Ferguson on the twopoint conversion. But in the fourth quarter, Christian Heritage took over. Nasir Love-Porter
broke off a long scoring run, though the Spartans blocked the extra point. Heath Hardway hit a 34yard field goal to give the Lions a 16-14 lead. A few plays later, Christian Heritage picked off a pass from Richardson with just under five minutes left. They added a touchdown and the Spartans blocked another extra point. A lost fumble on the Spartans’ ensuing drive gave the Lions the win. “If I could get (the interception) back, I’d take it back, but you can’t,” Alexander said. “That’s part of sports. That’s what makes it awesome. Definitely, we knew we were scraping and clawing and had to do something magical to win the game. It didn’t fall our way.”
Photo by AJ Reynolds
Prince Avenue's Zack Ragle (43) runs for a first down during the first half of a GHSA A-Private playoff football game between Prince Avenue Christian and First Presbyterian last Friday.
‘PACS football’
senior running back Kevon Hudson scored the games first touchdown. Prince Avenue continued its first half campaign with a 41-yard touchdown run from senior running back Jordan Hightower. The Wolverines were backed up to their own 2-yard line after a deep punt from but put together an offensive drive highlighted by a 65yard run from senior Zack Ragle and capped off by a 30-yard touchdown reception by junior wide receiver Noah Campbell. Senior Andrew Hayes scored the fourth touchdown before taking it to the locker room after First Presbyterian turned the ball over on downs on the Vikings 27-yard line.
Photo by Taylor Craig Sutton
Athens Academy's Ed Ferguson (21) looks back at the ball as Christian Heritage's John Whiteside (70) knocks it out during a GHSA high school playoff game between the Athens Academy Spartans and the Christian Heritage Lions last Friday.
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Oconee County’s Jaleel Laguins smiles as he addresses the crowd at his ceremony last Thursday at OCHS.
‘Laguins’ Continued from Page 4
Continued from Page 5 Both teams lost the ball on fumbles in their last first-half possessions. “We had a lot of momentum, but we had to just keep playing,” quarterback Grant Roland said. “We can’t think about the score. When we go in at half time Coach Bell tells us it’s 0-0.” Hudson kick-started the offense in the second half on a touchdown put in place by 37-yard run and 18-yard reception by Hightower. The Vikings scored their only touchdown on an 18yard pass to Daniel Weaver resulted in a quarterback keep for a touchdown. Ragle found the end zone for the second time of the night — just before the fourth quarter on a 26-yard
run, which gave the Wolverines a big enough lead to get a running clock for the fourth quarter. The win over First Presbyterian continues Prince Avenue’s undefeated season. But the previous 10 wins weren’t on Roland’s mind. “We’re 1-0 in the playoffs. We’re not thinking about 11-0,” Roland said. Prince Avenue will host Savannah Christian, who has traded crucial wins with the Wolverines in the recent past, next Friday at 7:30. “My first year we went down there and got beat by them in the regular season,” Herron said. “There’s a little history there for sure.”
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to say I played in the same game he played in is amazing,” Laguins said. “It was before we went to play Hart County. Rusty Mansell called Coach Noland and asked to talk to me and told me I was an Army AllAmerican. Words can’t describe it. It’s an answered prayer. An honor.” Laguins has been a key member of the Warriors in their turnaround these last two seasons. He has played football since the third grade and prior to this season, committed to the University of Georgia. “I felt like I could put more of my attention towards the team and accomplishing the goals that we have – region champs, going back to the playoffs, trying to make a deeper run
in the playoffs that we did last year,” Laguins said. “Words can’t describe how it feels with your brothers on Friday night. It is a feeling that you will never get again because you’ve know these guys ever since third grade, Pop Warner football, probably on the same Little League team, in middle school. It’s a team chemistry you can’t build within five weeks or a month. It takes time to develop. Being out there with them is amazing. I wouldn’t pick a better bunch of guys to go out there and be with.” Laguins is the first player from Oconee County High School to be recognized as a U.S. Army All-American, which has been around since 2001. “It is a big honor for him,
his family, our program and our school. It will be nice for Oconee to be recognized nationally. It’s a big honor for him and us,” said head coach Travis Noland. “He is a great young man that will represent our school, our community and our program well. We are excited for him to have that opportunity.” Noland said this is an honor all of his teammates and seniors can share in. “His success has been a lot of these guys working hard with him,” Noland said. “For these seniors, they have done an unbelievable job this year and have to walk away feeling good about what has been accomplished, including this.”
Thursday, November 26, 2015
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Page 8
Oconee County wrestling
Warriors go 5-0, win Round Robin Championship BY MATTHEW CALDWELL The Oconee Leader
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Rexx Hallyburton smiles for the camera moments before pinning his opponent from East Jackson last Saturday. Hallyburton was undefeated in the tournament.
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Chris Couch was undefeated in the 182-pound weight class in last weekend’s tournament at Oconee County.
After the Oconee County Warriors defeated East Jackson 54-12 in last Saturday’s Warrior Round Robin Championship, head coach Al Yauck said he was looking for the Warriors to “defend the gym and win it.” The Warriors did just that. The Warriors beat White County 64-24, Monticello 54-15, Jeff Davis 37-29 and Elbert County 46-24 to win the tournament championship again. “Since we have started hosting this tournament, we have won it every year but we have got some good competition here today,” Yauck said. Rexx Hallyburton went 5-
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For a photo gallery of Oconee County’s win against East Jackson last Saturday, see theoconeeleader.com. 0 with five pins in the 170pound weight class. Chris Couch went 5-0 with five pins in the 182-pound weight class. Jordan Sylvey went 5-0 with five pins in the 113-pound weight class. “We are young right now. We have none of the football players out and we have three starters out injured already. We are young today but we are expecting big things this year,” Yauck said. “We graduated a lot but we return some really good wrestlers, and we had
some guys that didn’t get an opportunity last year because they were behind some good wrestlers that will get a chance this year. It’s exciting to see what the season holds for us. “We get the football players back and we should look pretty good. Our upper weights are going to be more veteran wrestlers. We have some good lower weights but a lot of inexperience in the lower weights.”
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Jordan Sylvey was undefeated in the 113-pound weight class in last Saturday’s tournament at Oconee County.
Oconee County’s Huckaby signs with Georgia College to golf BY MATTHEW CALDWELL The Oconee Leader
Georgia College’s golf program has made the NCA Regional every year since 1998, won two Peach Belt Conference championships (2008, 2010) and has advanced to the NCAA Finals nine times. They were NCAA region champions twice. Oconee County golfer Ben Huckaby will get a chance to help the Bobcats in Milledgeville continue their successful program. The OCHS senior signed a letter of intent to join the Georgia College golf team. “It’s great to know you are getting to play Arne next level. It’s cool to see your dreams and accomplishments all come to-
gether,” Huckaby said. “I looked around the southeast and it was a place that fit me. That have a great golf program and I’m excited to get down there.” Huckaby’s lowest round is a 65, which he shot at last season’s Region 8-AAA tournament. He was region low medalist and the Warriors were region champions. “It was awesome to mainly do it for my school because most of my tournaments are individual,” Huckaby said. “To put a number like that for your school and win the region championship is a lot of fun with the team.” Huckaby has been a part of a state runner-up finish as a sophomore when he
tied for 15th individually, and a third-place team finish last season where he finished tied for fourth with a round of 74. For his senior season, he wants to improve on where the team has finished in the last two seasons and improve on his individual finish. “I want to win a state championship as a team and individual,” Huckaby said. “That’s the ultimate goal.” Huckaby is also on the varsity basketball team and their season began this week against Clarke Central. Their first home game is December 5 against Madison County. “I’m excited for this next basketball season my senior year,” Huckaby said.
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
Ben Huckaby (middle) was joined by his brothers and parents for his signing ceremony earlier this month at Oconee County High School.
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Thursday, November 26, 2015
‘Huff’
that everybody in his family was able to make it to the game. “Everybody was healthy and everybody was able to make it,” Huff said. “That was a big deal to me.” As is tradition, the seniors were captains for the game and Huff had the captains’ C sown onto his jersey. “It was cool going out there before the coin toss and everything,” Huff said. “It is hard to describe. The best word I can think of is surreal because the whole thing is a lot to take in.” Huff didn’t get into Georgia the first time he applied. He went to Gainesville State (now known as North Georgia) prior to finally getting accepted into Georgia. When it came time to try out, all that was open was a spot as a punter so he tried out as a punter despite never punting before. When it came time to try out again, a recruiting assistant told him to try out as a linebacker. He did and has been on the team ever since. Huff finally got to dress for his first game late last season against Charleston Southern in a game where his teammates at Oconee County, Sean McGarity with Charleston Southern and Billy Seward with Georgia also dressed in. He dressed for the Belk Bowl in Charlotte last season, a win by Georgia. He has also dressed out for games against Louisiana-Monroe, Southern and for the first time
Continued from Page 4
“It is still a little bit surreal to me. It seems like just yesterday I joined the team. Now here I am two years later and it’s all over at Sanford Stadium. It will probably hit me when I get home tonight. I am just thankful for the experience I have had here and for all of the people I have come into contact with.” - Oconee County graduate John Huff on his final game at Sanford Stadium against a team from the SEC, Kentucky. All of those games were won by Georgia. In last week’s game against Georgia Southern, Huff was there on the sidelines as the Bulldogs defeated the Eagles 23-17 in overtime. After the game, he was one of several players standing on a table in front of the student section celebrating with the fans and students. “That was incredible. Coaches have been preaching all week that we aren’t supposed to take those guys lightly and it will be a great game, and it was,” Huff said. “It was a heck of an experience – a night game and finishing up like this.
It’s a lot to take in right now with this being my last game and everything, but it’s been a great career here and hopefully we will get the win against Tech and in the bowl.” Huff said he is planning on pursuing a master’s degree in Agricultural Education with hopes of teaching high school agriculture, and he also wants to be a coach. “I am thankful to everybody in the Oconee County community and the Athens area that has supported me the whole time,” Huff said. “I hope I can continue to give back to the community that has given so much to me. I am thankful for everything that has happened to me.”
MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader
John Huff was a captain and on the field with the other seniors for the coin toss prior to Georgia’s game against Georgia Southern last Saturday at Sanford Stadium.
Page 10
Thursday, November 26, 2015
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School days in Oconee County
Pictures from the last couple of weeks at schools around the county
Colham Ferry Elementary School second-graders used the Engineering Design Process to build a house with available materials.
Rocky Branch Elementary School Cooking club helps sell Tasteful Selections potatoes at Walmart to support Katie’s Krops.
Miss Ingrid’s PreK class is learning about transportation at Oconee County Primary School.
Creative way to combine Chromebooks and types of sentences — way to go Oconee County Elementary School fourth-graders.
Ms. Greer’s Colham Ferry Elementary School first-graders used LEGOs to problem solve.
When one has Beta Club induction at High Shoals Elementary School,one must have a selfie with the principal.
Oconee County Middle School students enjoy their time at Rock Eagle.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
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aTheNs baNNer-herald A7 Page• 11
To Advertise: Phone 706.208.2290 Business/Strategic Management
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Morgan County Board of Commissioners Assistant County Manager/Transit Director Position Overview: Morgan County has an opening for its newly created Assistant County Manager/Transit Director position. This is an executive level position working under the general direction of the County Manager. Work includes leadership and supervision of the Transit Department (5 FTE), organization-wide grant writing and administration, public relations, special projects, review of current processes, and other duties as determined by the County Manager. Education and Experience: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in public administration, urban planning, political science, business management, or a closely related field required. A Master’s degree in one of the aforementioned fields and some local government work experience preferred. Compensation: The salary for this fulltime and benefit eligible position will be commiserate with the successful applicant’s education and experience. A copy of the County’s fringe benefits package is available upon request. Timeline and Submittal Logistics: This position will remain open until filled; and, the first review of applicants will be December 11, 2015. Applications are available (and can be submitted) online at www.morganga.org or in-person at 150 E. Washington Street, Madison, Georgia 30650 (and any/all “hard copy” submittals should be sent to this address). Please contact Leslie Brandt, Administrative Assistant in the County Manager’s Office, at 706 342-0725, for more information. Please Note: Morgan County is an EEO and an “at Will” employer. Also, Morgan County conducts comprehensive background checks and drug screenings on applicants. Accounting / Finanance/Insurance
Accounting / Finanance/Insurance
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Assistant CFO: Northridge Medical Center – Commerce, GA. The ACFO will provide support in all efforts to ensure the financial viability of the hospital by establishing and monitoring financial and budgeting affairs. This position will be a part of the senior management team. Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting or related field. Minimum of 3 years’ sufficient management experience required in the area of hospital revenue cycle. We offer competitive salaries, PTO, 401(k), Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits! Please send resume to: jjones@northridgemc.org or tkubasta@northridgemc.org EOE/M/F/D/V Drug Free Workplace
Medical / Health
1380
Medical / Health
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PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT We are a well-established, progressive neurosurgical practice located in Athens, Georgia with six satellite offices. We currently have an immediate employment opportunity available for a physician assistant. Surgical experience preferred but not required. All applicants should have completed their medical training and have experience in patient care. Some travel required. We offer competitive salary and benefits package. Send resume with cover letter to: Melinda Batal Georgia Neurological Surgery 2142 W. Broad St Bldg 100, Suite 200 Athens, GA 30606 Or email to gns@georgianeuro.com
Medical Assistant Verifies patient information by interviewing patient, recording medical history, confirming purpose of visit. Prepares patient for examination by taking blood pressure, weight and temperature: reporting patient history summary. HS diploma or GED req., as well as, Medical Assistant Certification. Experience in an OB/OBGYN office and use of electronic medical records preferred. 3 provider practice, excellent benefits, 4 1/2 day work week. Fax resume to 706-354-1818 Please email resumes to awcbus@aol.com Morgan Memorial Hospital House Supervisor, RN – Full Time Nights Seeking a Nursing Supervisor to work full time Nights. Must hold current licensure in the State of Georgia as a Registered Nurse, BLS and ACLS certifications. Supervisory experience in a hospital or clinical setting required. Must be a self-starter, have good communication, organizational, and computer skills. Apply online at www.mmh.org Or send resume to Sarah S. Phillips, HR Fax: 706-342-2742 e-mail: sarahp@mmh.org Morgan Memorial Hospital is a Drug Free Workplace/EEOC
Installation / Maintenance / Repair
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Installation / Maintenance / Repair
Major Manufacturing Facility in Athens, Georgia has an Immediate opening for: Industrial Maintenance Person 3 to 5 years’ experience in the field Machinist skills preferred Must have: High School Diploma/GED Georgia Work Ready Certificate Physical Exam/Drug Screen Rotating Shifts (3 shifts) Excellent Benefit Package Please send resumes to: 7000010962@ad2job.com EOE/M/F/V/D Logistics / Transportation
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Logistics / Transportation
1340
Manufacturing / Production / Operations
Logistics / Transportation
1320
Driver- CDL/A $3000 Sign On Bonus for Experienced Drivers Paid Out within 30 days of 1st dispatch!
HOME WEEKLY NEW Southeast Regional PAY INCREASE!
Company & Independent Contractors Needed 6 Day Refresher Course Avail.
Education/Training
1180
Now Hiring Full Time & Part time teachers. Minimum requirements: Childcare experience required, CDA minimum preferred, Energetic, Team Player who is passionate about children Great benefits and work environment. Apply onsite, download app at www.krk23ga.com, or call 706-546-9400 for info.
In Business over 50 years! 855-378-9335 EOE KLLM.com
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ROUTE TECHNICIAN Strategic Industries is seeking a motivated individual for day to day operation of pest control route in the BARROW,CLARKE, HALL & JACKSON area. Competitive salary (up to 35k-1st yr) paid training & growth opportunity. Benefits include monthly bonus, paid holidays, medical/dental, vacation, 401k & Co Vehicle. Successful candidate must have good driving record, HS diploma or GED & customer service skills. To apply visit our website www.Strategicpest.com or email your resume to HR@strategicpest.com.
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Northeast Sales Dist., Co. is accepting applications for local Route Delivery drivers. Route delivery experience is a plus. Class A CDL is required. A seven-year MVR and a background check must be provided with application. Good pay plus benefits. Benefits include 401k, health, life, disability, dental, paid vacation and more. Apply in person at Northeast Sales 840 Ronald Wood Rd., Winder, GA 30680. M-F 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 678-963-7700. Email address meberling@nesdi.com.
Manufacturing / Production / Operations
1260
Find that new career today!
Business/Strategic Management
Find your new career today!
PR OFESSIONAL
A Guide to Professional Services in the Oconee County Area To Advertise: Phone 706.549.FAST Home Services
Home Services
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Home Services
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Home Services
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Home Services
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Home Services
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METAL OR SHINGLES • We do ALL the work & repairs: soffit, cornice, fascia & painting
Plumber Pro Service and Drain
Your Residential Plumbing Service Experts
706-769-7761
www.plumberproservice.com www.facebook.com/plumberproservice
www.gbedellconstruction.com
The Professional Services Directory is Oconee County’s best source for finding painters, plumbers, landscapers, roofers, and other local service providers.
Master Plumber License #Mp210274 • Insured • Free Estimates
Do YOU provide a professional service?
$25 First Time Customer Discount $30 Senior Citizen Discount
Want to attract more customers?
EDT CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING
To advertise here, call 706.549.FAST!
* Rotten Wood Repair *Carports & Garage *Additions *Renovations *Roofing Repairs *New Home Construction *Sun Rooms *Decks & Patios *Ceramic Tile *Home Maintenance *Painting (Int/Ext) *Kitchen & Bath Renovation *Window & Door Replacement
State Licensed & Insured
For ALL Your HOME IMPROVEMENTS, Large Or Small, Call Today For A FREE ESTIMATE
706-202-6066 Call Anytime & Ask for ET Visit our website at www.edtconstruction.com edtconstruction@yahoo.com Serving Athens since 1989
BAT SEASON
“Resolving Conflicts Between People & Animals” WILDLIFE TRAPPING Wildlife Detection Removal & Prevention
LEAFPROOF
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STATE OF GEORGIA LICENSED CONTRACTOR Home Services
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Home Services
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UlmBrothers Tree Service
Local and experienced! We are fully insured and offer Tree removal,Trimming Pruning, Debris Removal, Insurance work, Right of way work, Lot clearing, and Stump Grinding. We pride our self on customer service and satisfaction. Call for a free estimate today. Office: 706-369-5300 Cell: 706-255-4941
Bickley’s Tree Service f Tree Service f Lawn Maintenance f Stump Grinding f Brush Chipping f Bobcat f Dump Truck Insured
Lamar Adams 706-224-2079
Free Estimates
Peyton Hopkins Call 706-546-7438 AthensExterminating.net PO Box 5772 7080 Smokey Rd. Athens GA 30604 Lic. Trapper #99993
www.gbedellconstruction.com
Home Services
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Home Services
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Classic Home Repairs “I do the work myself and I guarantee the work I do” • Carpentry Work • Decks & Ramps • Int/Ext Painting • Drywall Repair • Windows & Doors • ROOFING AVAILABLE Kenneth Hightower
770.601.1479
homerepairs02@gmail.com
BRIAN’S TREE SERVICES HANDYMAN, ROOFING, PATCHWORK, PRESSURE WASHING, & PAINTING, YARD & LEAF CLEANING, HEDGE TRIMMING & SHRUB REMOVAL, UNDERBRUSH CLEARING, STORM DRAINS CALL BRIAN 706-247-5430 23 YRS EXP. LIC & INSURED 7 DAYS A WEEK. FREE EST. SR. CITIZEN DISC. WE DO IT ALL!
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Thursday, November 26, 2015
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