The Oconee Leader

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Sports Issue 33

Volume 10

From the Oconee to the Apalachee

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Cross Country

State Meet Page 4

Online

MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader

Oconee County quarterback Zeb Noland and linebacker Jaleel Laguins, both seniors, hug after the Warriors’ 12-7 win against Elbert County last Friday night. The win, coupled with Jefferson’s win against Hart County, gave the Warriors their first region championship since 2004.

For the full story, see page 5. For more photos of the game and celebration, see theoconeeleader.com.

Photos from

Veterans Day

Oconee County Middle School honors Veterans

BY ROB PEECHER

The Oconee Leader

theoconeeleader.com

Trail

Oconee County Middle School Monday hosted its annual Veterans Day program, an exceptional program featuring patriotic music and speakers who share with students and guests their appreciation for the sacrifices of veterans.

The program, held in the OCMS gym, was open to the public, and many parents, grandparents and other community members attended the event.

Monday, students Stephen Yin, Sarah Evans, Mary Cain Rue and Lindsey Evans each read from essays they wrote about why freedom is important to them.

Yin contrasted the freedom in the United States – “a gift bestowed by the brave men and women” in the military – to life in North Korea. Each of the students encouraged Please see

‘OCMS Veterans Day’ Page 3

Elizabeth Ann Florist celebrates 60 years ROB PEECHER/Oconee Leader

Members of the OCMS Decatens perform “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.”

BY MIKE SPRAYBERRY The Oconee Leader

Bogart

Walking path Page 2

Online

Photos from

UGA v Kentucky

theoconeeleader.com

When Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Yarbrough did not have a name for her flower shop in 1955, the person issuing her business license named it for her.

“When she went to get her business license, they asked her what the name of the store was,” said Lynne Yarbrough, co-owner of Elizabeth Ann Florist in Waktinsville. “She said ‘I haven’t thought about it.’ The man asked her what her name was and she said ‘Betty.’ He said ‘No, what is your proper name?’ The man wrote ‘Elizabeth Ann’ and ‘Florist’ for the type of business and she never changed it.”

Sixty years later and now owned

by Lynne and Bill Yarbrough, Elizabeth Ann Florist is the longest-operating retail business in Oconee County.

“Bill’s mother was Elizabeth Ann, but everyone always called her ‘Betty,’” explained Lynne. “She went to floral design school in Atlanta in 1954 and opened the flower shop in their house on Colham Ferry Road in 1955. The shop moved to where the barber shop is now on Main Street, and in 1975, they bought the building we are in now and moved across the street.”

Bill moved back to Oconee County after college in 1973 with plans to be a teacher, but found working in the family business to be a “gratifying experience” and never entered education. Lynne has

MIKE SPRAYBERRY/Oconee Leader

Bill and Lynne Yarbrough, owners of Elizabeth Ann Florist and Gift Shop, are celebrating the 60th anniversary of the iconic downtown Watkinsville business that Bill’s mother started this month and next

been at Elizabeth Ann (and married to Bill) for 39 years. Part of their ongoing success stems from shared philosophies, particularly on customer service.

“First and foremost is your attitude towards customers,” said Bill, now working at Elizabeth Ann part-time while running another

business and pursuing other interests. “They’re not really just a customer. They become your friends and part of your family. Then, of course, you put out a good product.

If you do those things, you are going to be successful.”

Lynne agreed and mentioned a few other keys to Elizabeth Ann’s

60 years in business.

“Customer service. Always customer service. The customer always comes first, so do whatever you can to make them happy. Just build that friendship with the cus‘Elizabeth Ann’ Page 3

Please see

County planning improvements to Bogart walking trails Page 2

Thursday, November 12, 2015

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for walkers’ safety.

“I don’t think there have been improvements made to that trail in a long time and there are spots where the asphalt has bucked up,” said Davis. “Someone not as agile when walking could perhaps fall and injure themselves and we certainly don’t want that to happen.”

The Bogart Sports Complex is a 33-acre park located behind the Bogart Library. It includes six

BY MIKE SPRAYBERRY The Oconee Leader

The walking trail at the Bogart Sports Complex will likely undergo some improvements and repairs in the next few months.

The half-mile paved trail has been damaged by growing tree roots and could be repaired with funds from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) once a contractor is selected and a plan approved by the Oconee County Board of Commissioners. A contractor is expected to be chosen and approved by the Board of Commissioners December 1.

“Because the trail goes through some trees and a wooded area, we have a lot of issues with roots causing the pavement on the walking path to buckle,” said Lisa Davol, Deputy Director of Programs for the Oconee County Parks and Recreation Department.

“So, the work we are trying to move forward on is to cut down some trees in the paved area and then repair those areas on the walking path so there is a smooth surface to walk on.”

The first step to repairing the damaged trail is approval of a contractor by the Board of Commissioners.

“We put it out for bid a month or so ago,” said Melvin Davis, Chairman of the Oconee County Board of Commissioners. “The two bids so far are almost like comparing apples to oranges, so we’ve asked (Parks and Recreation) to get with the two bidders again, walk the trail with both and discuss exactly what needs to be done and where.

“They should be coming back to us with a quote on the charge to do the job and complete the improvements to the trail. The Board will likely make a decision on that on the consent agenda at our meeting December 1. Any vegetation that needs to be re-

lighted baseball and multipurpose fields, a picnic pavilion, two playgrounds and the walking trail.

The walking trail starts beside the picnic pavilion, goes into the woods and wraps around several baseball fields before emerging from the woods on the opposite side of the complex.

Mike Sprayberry is a reporter for The Oconee Leader.

Smith earns ‘High Senior Individual” in 4-H state Wildlife Judging Contest

MIKE SPRAYBERRY/Oconee Leader

Damaged walking paths could make the Bogart trails unsafe, but the county plans to repair them.

moved will probably be removed in the winter months and work on the asphalt will probably be done in the spring.”

Even once approved, Davol said other factors make the timeline difficult to determine at this point.

“We don’t have a timeline yet,” said Davol. “Once the Board of Commissioners approves it and we have a contractor secured, we’ll know a better timeline.

“I’m not sure what part of the work can be done right now. In terms of putting down asphalt, the work is weather contingent. So, we can try to get the trees done and whether the paving is done in the next few months or in the spring will be weather dependent.”

Davol also said the funds would likely come from SPLOST rev-

enue, pending Commission approval.

“The funds will be coming from money designated for the Parks and Recreation Department in SPLOST,” she said. “I know we are working on an estimate to see how much the cost is going to be.

At this point, the Board hasn’t approved funding and I think that is what they are reviewing.”

Repairing the trail should improve safety for regular visitors to the Bogart Sports Complex added Davol.

“We actually get quite a bit of walkers at the Bogart Sports Complex, so I think this will be a great improvement for those that utilize the facility. It will be a safer, more walkable trail for them.”

Davis echoed Davol’s concern

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Oconee County 4-H member Reed Smith was named the High Senior Individual recently at the Georgia 4-H State Wildlife Judging Contest held at Rock Eagle 4-H Center. The 2015 contest attracted 104 junior and senior 4-H’ers representing 15 counties. Through Wildlife Judging 4-H members learn how to identify species of wildlife, how to manage habitats for various wildlife species and gain appreciation to preserve this natural resource. Pictured above: Craven Hudson, the Associate State 4-H Leader,presents the certificate to Reed.

Tell our advertisers you saw them in The Oconee Leader • Go to theoconeeleader.com for picture galleries

‘OCMS Veterans Day’

their classmates not to take freedom for granted and to recognize that veterans are the ones who protect freedom in the U.S. Sarah Evans recalled a trip to Washington D.C. she took with a chorus group and said that the group sang for veterans, and that experience helped to make her recognize the sacrifices veterans make.

Retired U.S. Navy Commander Jeff Jenkins, who was a pilot during the Gulf War, was the featured speaker for the program, and Jenkins noted that the student speakers encouraged their classmates to thank veterans for their service. But he said the sacrifice does not end with the veterans.

When he was deployed to Iraq, he said, his wife at home had to “do the home repairs, change the tire, pay the bills.”

“I’ll challenge you to also thank their family members,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins shared with the students anecdotes from his time in the service and talked to them about his decision to join the military. He said he had graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in engineering and had recently taken a job as a nuclear engineer when he decided to enlist in the Navy. He was inspired, he said, by reading about Navy pilots who became astronauts.

Jenkins noted that the first casualty in Dessert Storm was a pilot from his carrier and a friend of his.

‘Elizabeth Ann’

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Page 3

Continued from the Front

Retired Navy Commander Jeff Jenkins encouraged students at Oconee County Middle School to commit to service to their community.

He encouraged the students, when they turn 18, to register to vote, and talked to them about why he thinks the Constitution is an important document. He said he considered getting pamphlets of the Constitu-

Continued from the Front

tomers. They are our customers, but they are our friends too. We care about them.

We know when babies are born or someone passes away or gets married. There is a sense that everybody just cares about everybody.

“We’re involved with the same things they are. We are serving in the community together and going to church together. We are supporting each other in charity organizations, benefits and fundraisers. Our children have grown up together.”

In 60 years, Elizabeth Ann Florist has adapted to countless trends and changes to the industry.

“The floral industry is a trendy industry,” said Lynne. “Even with weddings, venues change. Years ago, everyone got married in a church and the reception was in the fellowship hall. Now, any given wedding can be in a barn, outside garden or a church. It is never the same. Brides are very particular about what they like. They’re older now, have finished school, have jobs and know their own taste.

“We have to adapt and evolve not just around trends or the economy, but also what the customer wants because each customer is different. You never want to pigeonhole a customer and think that they all want the same thing.”

One trend at department stores led to a change in Elizabeth Ann’s inventory and a renewed focus on floral arrangements.

“When the market changes, we change with it,” said Bill. “When the big companies got into china, crystal and flatware, we knew it was time to get out of that.

We changed our focus to what we do best and it brought us back to where we are today. And Lynne is much better at it than I ever was. She has a vision for color coordination and design naturally. I had to work at it, but she is extremely talented.”

Even with renewed focus on their strengths, the Yarbroughs continue to try new things at Elizabeth Ann. Within the floral shop is now an art shop featuring local artists.

“We call it The Market Place on Main,” said Lynne. “We have all local art and most of the artists are from the Athens-Clarke or Oconee area. Artists have to be from the state of Georgia. It’s amazing what this state and area produces as far as artists.

“Artists don’t rent space in the store. All the artists are in there together. It’s fun to shop and people love local art. The bonus is that we’re out delivering flowers all day, so we can now deliver art. It’s kind of a nice add-on gift with the flowers.”

Elizabeth Ann Florist is also celebrating their 60th anniversary with “60 days of giveaways,” Lynne said.

“We started celebrating on October 7 and are doing 60 days of giveaways and showing artifacts from the shop. We’re making donations once a week to a project or charity that is special to us until December 4. On Saturday, December 5, we’ll be in the Christmas parade and after the parade, we will have our minister come to the shop and do a shop blessing. We’ve got a few other things we’re keeping under our hat, but we’ll have cake and a celebration.”

Elizabeth Ann Florist is located at 15 North Main Street in Watkinsville and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Mike Sprayberry is a reporter for The Oconee Leader.

tion to pass out to the students, but realized that might not be the best way to get the document in front of them. Instead, he told them how to download a Constitution app for their phones.

Jenkins left the students with a final challenge to find a way to serve their country when they become adults. That might not mean military service for everyone, he said, pointing out that teachers, police officers and firefighters also serve their country.

“Volunteer at the food bank or become a Scout leader,” Jenkins said. “Pick something. Give back. It’s on you youngsters to give back and keep this country great.”

In addition to the speakers, Monday’s Veterans Day program also included patriotic music and a recognition of veterans who were in the audience.

The OCMS band performed a medley of each service anthem, and veterans were asked to stand during their branch’s anthem.

The OCMS Decatens also sang “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “My America.”

Students also performed the “White Table Ceremony” in honor of missing and fallen veterans, and OCMS band member Eric Looney performed Taps to close out the event.

The school hosts the Veterans Day program each year, and it is always an impressive event.

“I am blown away by you guys and what you put on here,” Jenkins told the students.

Oconee students receive Wendy’s Heisman

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Jack Edelen and Sara Lewis were recently named the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award winners of Oconee County High School. The Wendy’s Heisman Awards recognize students who have excelled in the classroom, in sports and in the community.

Jack is a member of the Varsity Swimming and Diving Team and Sara is a member of the Varsity Girls Soccer Team. Jack is the son of Craig and Kendall Edelen. Sara is the daughter of Robert and Kim Lewis.

Hogg on Maryville homecoming court

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Caitlyn Hogg, of Watkinsville, was selected as one of the representatives of the senior class during Maryville College’s Homecoming festivities on Oct. 17. Candidates are nominated by students in their respective classes, with the entire student body selecting the Homecoming Queen and King through an election. Hogg (pictured above right) was escorted by Matt Jenkins of Lenoir City, Tenn. and is the daughter of Melinda Hogg of Watkinsville. Hogg is a management major at the College.

This Week:

For hundreds of photos and constant updates about Oconee events and people, go to theoconeeleader.com

Wolverines

Thursday, November 12, 2015

WARRIORS TITANS SPARTANS WOLVERINES LIONS

Football

Undefeated Page 6

Online

Contributed photo

The Warriors finished second in last week’s state cross country meet in Carrollton. Pictured are Warriors’ team members (standing) Baxter Hunt, Cam Mallett, Wesley John, Colin O'Neal, Davis Hardell, Jake Hadden, Garrison Taylor, Isaac Krumm, Michael Hans, Harrison Morris and (front) Jon Gogal.

Warriors finish second in Class AAA state meet Oconee County cross country

For a recap of the first swimming and diving meet of the season, see theoconeeleader.com

Online

Oconee County graduate John Huff dressed for UGA against an SEC opponent for the first time. For photos of the game, Huff, Oconee County graduate Billy Seward, Prince Avenue Christian graduate Christian Payne and North Oconee graduates Kate Rider and Caroline Brown, see theoconeeleader.com

Schedule:

Athens Academy Basketball – 3 p.m., Nov. 21 North Oconee Basketball – 6 p.m., Nov. 21 Basketball – TBA, Nov. 24 Oconee County Football – 7:30 p.m., Nov. 13 Wrestling – 9 a.m., Nov. 21 Prince Avenue Christian Football – 7:30 p.m., Nov. 20 Basketball – 6 p.m., Nov. 17 Westminster Christian Basketball – 6 p.m., Dec. 7

FROM STAFF REPORTS The Oconee Leader

Region 8-AAA had a strong showing in the Class AAA state meet last Saturday in Carrollton, and the region champion Oconee County Warriors finished second in the meet behind Blessed Trinity’s 49 points.

The Warriors, the highest finishing public school, had 88 points.

Westminster was third with 104 points. East Jackson, who had the top two finishers, finished fourth with 125 points and Jefferson finished fifth with 176 points.

Senior Michael Hans, who finished third at the region meet, finished fifth at state with a time of 17:55 to cap his high school cross country career. Junior Jake Hadden finished 13th in a time of 18:12.

Senior Isaac Krumm finished 18th with a time of 18:28 in his final high school cross country meet.

Sophomore Matthew Morris finished 19th with a time of 18:32.

Freshman Wesley John finished 33rd with a time of 19:05.

There were 223 runners and 32 teams competing in the boys’ meet.

Freshman Caroline McArthur finished 19th in a time of 22:49 to

Contributed photo by Jimmy Cobb

Pictured are North Oconee’s Rachel Sigler, Anna Cobb, Gabby Huff-Streiter, Courtney Jones, Sophie Brown, Melanie Bowden, Hollis Brown and Kate Mattison after the Lady Titans finished third in the Class AAAA state meet last Saturday.

help the Lady Warriors finish ninth out of 30 teams. There were 207 runners.

Freshman Cailey Dunford finished 56th with a time of 25:09.

Junior Megan Crozier finished 62nd in a time of 25:22. Senior Evie Bielen finished 73rd with a time of 25:47. Senior Kay Mallett finished 129th in time of 28:13.

Anna Marian Block

Athens Academy cross country

Block wins Class A Lady Titans finish third in AAAA state championship North Oconee cross country

FROM STAFF REPORTS The Oconee Leader

North Oconee’s cross country teams had a pair of top-five team finishes in last Saturday’s Class AAAA state meet in Carrollton.

The Lady Titans were the highest finishing public school. They finished third out of 31 teams with 160 points behind Marist (first place, 37 points) and St. Pius X (second place, 160).

The Titans finished fifth out of 31 teams with 179 points. Marist (first place, 69 points), St. Pius X (second place, 76 points),

Whitewater (third place, 115 points) and North Hall (fourth place, 115 points) finished ahead of the Titans.

Mackenzie Morse led the Lady Titans with an eighthplace finish out of 211 runners. The junior finished the course in a time of 21:43. Sophomore Gabby Huff-Streiter finished 17th in a time of 22:15. Sophomore Kate Mattison finished 34th in a time of 22:44. Junior Hollis Brown finished 51st in a time of 23:30. Sophomore Sophie Brown finished 55th in a time of 23:34.

Senior Thomas Moore, who had six wins this season and won the individual region championship, finished 12th in a time of 17:47 in his final high school cross country meet.

Junior Anthony Potts finished 22nd in a time of 18:09. Senior Harper Sigler finished 38th with a time of 18:32. Senior Andrew Cowick finished 48th with a time of 18:59. Freshman Brady Kalessa finished 62nd with a time of 19:22.

Dawson Frey finished just behind Kalessa in 63rd and sophomore Jacob Ash finished in 66th.

FROM STAFF REPORTS The Oconee Leader

A year after finishing third in the state meet as a freshman, Athens Academy sophomore Anna Marian Block improved on both her time (19:37 last season) and her finish last week in the Class A private school state meet in Carrollton.

Block ran a 19:09 and won the state championship by 15 seconds. As a team, the Lady Spartans finished second out of 16 teams with 85 points. Landmark Christian won the team championship with 40 points.

Emily Elder finished 11th for the Lady Spartans with

a time of 21:40. Emily Ballard-Myer finished 15th in 21:47. Sara Irvine finished 29th in 22:56. Emily Doherty finished 38th in 23:29.

The Spartans also had a strong showing in the Class A private school state meet.

They finished fourth out of 16 teams and had two runners finish in the top eight.

Ryan Iyer finished the course in a time of 18:26 to place seventh. Teammate Alex Branch was five seconds behind in eighth place.

J.T. Camp finished 35th in a time of 19:42. Jay Bangle finished 40th in 19:52. Ryan Cook finished 54th in 20:27.

Page 5

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Oconee County football

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Warriors reign in Region 8-AAA, win first region title since 2004

BY MATTHEW CALDWELL The Oconee Leader

It took two seasons under head coach Travis Noland, but the Oconee County Warriors can call themselves something they haven’t been able to since 2004 – region champions.

After losing to Hart County three weeks ago, the Warriors defeated two top-10 teams in each of the last two weeks. The win against Jefferson meant if the Warriors beat Elbert County and Jefferson beat Hart County last week, the Warriors would win region.

The Warriors got done with their game first, beating Elbert County 12-7 on a wet, muddy, mushy field.

They had to wait around about 20 minutes but word began to reach everyone remaining at Warrior Stadium – Jefferson beat Hart County 43-27, giving the Warriors the Region 8AAA championship.

“I am very thrilled for the kids and the community and our coaches. A lot of people worked very hard to get to this point and I am happy for everybody,” Noland said. “It has been fun to watch. Last year’s seniors set the foundation for what we have been able to accomplish this season because they bought into the program. There is nothing we do that is magical or different. I truly believe hard work pays off and if you take care of the process, the process will give you a chance to be successful. What has been fun to watch them develop is the belief that they belong with the Elbert’s and Jefferson’s of the world but that is through a lot of hard work and commitment on their part to eliminate some of those doubts that maybe they had in the past. I am very happy for how far we’ve come.”

The fact that the Warriors are where they are in season two under Noland didn’t come as a surprise to the head coach.

“If you go back and look at my first article when I got hired here, I said we expect to compete for region championships here,” Noland said. “I truly believe kids will rise to whatever level of expectations are put in front of them.

They have rose to that level of expectations. Now that they are region champions, that is how traditions are born. Now every class that follows them has something to work for. I am not

MATTHEW CALDWELL/Oconee Leader

Members of Oconee County’s football team dives in the mud following their 12-7 win against Elbert County last Friday night. The win plus Jefferson’s win gave the Warriors the Region 8-AAA championship. For more pictures of the game and celebration, see theoconeeleader.com.

surprised at all. I am very happy. We still have a long ways to go to where we want our program to be from top to bottom but we are taking steps each and every week to do that.”

The Warriors were 3-7 when this year’s seniors were freshmen and 2-8 when this year’s juniors were freshmen.

“It is amazing. It is crazy to think we went 2-8 my freshman year. Nobody would have thought we would be in this situation right now. We just changed the tides on everything,” said junior lineman Gavin Adcock. “He came in and said, ‘We are going to work harder than everybody in the whole state and it is going to pay off. You have got to know you are going to win games. You can’t second guess yourself. You always have to think positive and you can’t flinch.

Something bad will always happen but you can’t ever flinch.’”

Going into this season, the Warriors were predicted to finish fifth in the region despite advancing to the second round of the Class AAA state tournament last season.

“I am glad I came out for the football team this year.

Whoever was predicting it gave us no credit,” said senior Chance Peden. “We are a better team than everyone thought and we proved it tonight.”

Peden caught the Warriors’ first touchdown pass from Zeb Noland from 10 yards out, but they couldn’t

celebrate taking a 6-0 lead until after the officials met to talk about what they saw.

Peden caught the ball and landed in the end zone but was immediately hit by an Elbert County defender, and the ball got knocked out of Peden’s arms.

“I caught it and my gloves had been real slick because there was a ton of mud on them. The ball just squirted out,” Peden said.

“Apparently I had already crossed the plane by that time.”

The officials met briefly, confirmed the touchdown and the Warriors led 6-0 with 5:25 left in the first quarter.

“I felt like it had to be a touchdown because when he came down, he was in the end zone, but that was a big play for us,” Coach Noland said. “We were checking a lot early in the game to get plays set to certain defenses. The kids did a good job of executing and that was one of them. They spun their safety down and we felt like we could get Chance in behind them.

They executed and made the play.”

The ensuing kickoff landed in the end zone, giving Elbert County the ball on its own 20. The Blue Devils didn’t stay there long. One play and 80 yards into the drive, they took a 7-6 lead on the long touchdown run.

“That one play was the one we feared the most. It was the zone read,” Coach Noland said. “That guy just needs a crease. We knew

when they got in a certain formation we couldn’t have anybody in the middle of the field. He creased us.

Other than that, I thought our defense played great.

They gave up some plays but they made the plays when we had to. We had several third-down stops and made them punt it more than I thought we would going into this thing.”

The game remained 7-6 until the third quarter. The Warriors got the ball to start the second half but they had to punt near midfield. The Blue Devils got the ball on their own 9 and went threeand-out. A short punt gave the Warriors the ball at the Elbert County 26. After four straight carries from Christian Casey to set up second-and-nine from the 13, Noland found Corderious Paschal in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown. The two-point conversion failed and the Warriors led 12-7 with 4:18 left in the third.

“I was happy for him because he has that drop earlier in the game. We felt like we could make a few plays here and there,” Coach Noland said. “We were always trying to check to see which side Mecole was on and we were going away from him in our passing game. We made enough plays to give us a chance.”

After the Warriors defense caused another Elbert County punt, the Warriors offense got the ball on their own 35 but they didn’t stay there long. On the second play of the drive and final

play of the third quarter, Casey carried the ball 13 yards to get to midfield.

Casey had a 22-yard run to get the Warriors into the red zone but they found themselves facing a fourthand-three from the 5. The Warriors converted a fourth-and-two on their first drive, which saw them in the end zone one play later. Instead of attempting another fourth-down conversion, the Warriors attempted a field goal. A delay of game penalty on fourth-and-three backed them up five yards, and they missed a 27-yard field goal with 6:38 left in the game. Coach Noland said after the game, “We probably should have gone for it on fourth down” but didn’t because, “I figured they were looking for it. It was a bad call. Sometimes you make bad calls but I was kicking myself for not going for it.”

The Warriors defense gave up one first down on the next Elbert County drive but caused the Blue Devils to punt again with 4:25 left in the game.

The Warriors went threeand-out on their next drive and Elbert County took over with 3:04 on its own 38.

On third-and-four, the Blue Devils had a 27-yard gain to get to the Warriors’ 39. After a one-yard loss on first down, the Blue Devils had an incomplete pass on second down. On third down, their pass was batted down at the line by Jaleel Laguins.

On fourth and 11 from the 40 with 2:01 left, Elbert County’s pass up the middle was batted down by Champ Bell, giving the Warriors the ball with 1:55 left in the game.

“I knew they were going to try and throw it deep so I was ready for the post,” Bell said. “We have been practicing it all week. I anticipated it and made a play on it.”

“It was a big play for us,” Coach Noland said.

“Champ has been an unbelievable steady player for us all year. He don’t get recognized much but he makes a lot of tackles and a lot of plays for us. He is a great high school football player.”

Noland had a 32-yard gain on second-and-five with less than a minute in the game. Elbert County had one time out left, which it used after the Warriors’ first knee with 28 seconds left. After a second knee from Noland in the victory formation, the Warriors celebration began by diving into the muddy field and celebrating with their fellow students.

“We knew our defense was going to have to win this game and we rose to the occasion and stopped one of the best players in the whole country. It was great. It felt good but we knew we always had to keep him in the back of our head that he was a threat,” Adcock said. “I love my team and love this county.”

“We worked pretty hard to get here and it really paid off for us,” Bell said.

Next up for the Warriors is a home game Friday night against Cedartown, the No. 4 seed from Region 5-AAA. “We are ready for it,” Bell said. “Hopefully the field will be ready for it as well.”

Cedartown went 2-8 overall and 2-3 in its region.

Coach Noland said the Warriors are treating this week like they did last week.

“It’s exciting to be at home.

Any time you are in the playoffs, it’s a one-week season and we can’t take anything for granted,” Coach Noland said. “The fact that us going and beating a No. 1 seed last year will give us the ability to get our kids focused on just because we are No. 1 and they are No. 4 doesn’t mean anything. We have to go play.

I would like to get out of the mud a little bit but it is probably not going to happen. It hinders a lot of things we do well but we will take it any way we can get it.”

Thursday, November 12, 2015

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Prince Avenue Christian football

Page 6

Athens Academy football

Roland selected for US Army Combine, Richardson’s three TD passes lift Wolverines win third straight region title Spartans past George Walton 21-13

Grant Roland, sophomore starting quarterback at Prince Avenue Christian School, has been invited to attend the U.S. Army National Combine in San Antonio, Texas on January 7, 2016. Six hundred of the nation’s top high school football underclassmen will gather in San Antonio this January for this honored tradition, the U.S. Army National Combine.

The combine will take place at the Alamodome.

Roland was invited by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Committee, which consists of All American Games, 247Sports and XOS Digital.

“I am very honored to be selected to attend the combine”, said Roland. “I am working to get better every day”.

Roland helped the Wolverines win the Region 8-A championship, the team’s third straight, and they capped an undefeated regular season last Friday night with a 49-0 victory against Providence Christian. Roland attempted just

one pass, but the result of it was a 21-yard touchdown to Nicolas Brown in the second quarter.

Andrew Hayes had eight carries for 62 yards and two touchdowns. Kevon Hudson had six carries for 89 yards, including a 66-yard touchdown. Jared Hightower had 74 yards on six carries, including a 36-yard touchdown. Zach Ragle had two carries but one of them was a 33-yard touchdown run. Thomas Huff had one carry but it was a 14-yard touchdown run.

The Wolverines finished 10-0 overall. With Class AA-AAAAAA starting their playoffs this Friday night, Class A is off. The Wolverines went into last week’s game No. 2 in the Class A private school power ratings. Class A begins its playoffs November 20 and Prince Avenue Christian will host.

The U.S. Army National Combine, focuses on measuring speed, strength, quickness, and football skill, while also provide educational seminars touch-

ing on the recruiting process, speed and strength improvement, and leadership. Held annually in association with the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, the U.S. Army National Combine is the first opportunity for the nation’s top underclassmen to demonstrate their physical talent and compete against one another before high school and college football’s top scouting organizations, including 247Sports and XOS Digital, as well as the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Committee.

The U.S. Army National Combine highlights football abilities and talents of today’s rising underclassmen and tomorrow’s high school, college, and NFL stars. U.S. Army National Combine alumni include Jamaal Charles (Kansas City Chiefs), LeSean McCoy (Buffalo Bills), DeMarco Murray (Philadelphia Eagles), Cam Newton (Carolina Panthers), Patrick Peterson (Arizona Cardinals) and CJ Mosley (Baltimore Ravens).

With 5:54 left in the third quarter, Richardson and Ferguson connected again, this time for an 85-yard touchdown, to give the Spartans a 21-6 lead.

George Walton cut the lead to 21-13 with 1:55 left in the third quarter.

Richardson completed 10 of 16 passes for 167 yards and three touchdowns. He also had 12 carries for 51 yards. Will Corry had 11 carries for 36 yards.

Ferguson caught four passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns. Wyatt Settles had one catch for 31 yards. He also had four nine tackles and one interception. Owen Roberts had one catch but it was the 27-yard touchdown.

FROM STAFF REPORTS The Oconee Leader

A year after missing the state tournament, the Athens Academy Spartans will more than likely advance to this year’s Class A private school state tournament when the GHSA announces the final power ratings for the regular season.

The Spartans defeated George Walton 21-13 last Friday night to cap a 9-1 overall record and a second-place finish in Region 8-A. The Spartans went 7-1 in the region and their only loss was to undefeated Prince Avenue Christian.

The Spartans got down 60 to George Walton with 7:11 left in the first quarter, but they took a 7-6 lead just

Drew Richardson over two minutes later on a 12-yard pass from Drew Richardson to Ed Ferguson.

Richardson threw his second touchdown pass of the game with 8:33 left in the third quarter, a 27-yard completion to Owen Roberts, to give the Spartans a 14-6 lead.

North Oconee football

Titans rout Madison County 58-7 FROM STAFF REPORTS The Oconee Leader

North Oconee needed a win last Friday night to finish .500 in the regular season and to clinch a playoff berth for the eighth consecutive season.

When the first 12 minutes of the game were over, the Titans were up 21-0 and well on their way to a 58-7

win against Madison County to punch their ticket to the Class AAAA state tournament.

The Titans finished fourth in Region 8-AAAA after going 4-3 in the region. Buford (7-0) won the region championship ahead of Stephens County (6-1) and North Hall (5-2).

North Oconee will travel to face Woodward on Fri-

day night. It’s the third straight season the Titans will play Woodward in the playoffs. Last year they lost 35-32 in the third round, which was the first time the Titans advanced pass the second round in program history. In 2013, the Titans lost 53-21 in the first round.

Woodward went 10-0 overall and 5-0 in Region 5-AAAA.

PR OFESSIONAL

A Guide to Professional Services in the Oconee County Area To Advertise: Phone 706.549.FAST Home Services

3520

Home Services

3520

Home Services

3520

Home Services

3520

Kenneth Hightower

770.601.1479

homerepairs02@gmail.com

PR OFESSIONAL

Let us help you grow your business! To advertise, call 706.549.FAST

Home Services

3520

3520

BAT SEASON

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

Home Services

“Resolving Conflicts Between People & Animals” WILDLIFE TRAPPING Wildlife Detection Removal & Prevention

LEAFPROOF

www.gbedellconstruction.com 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

“Pest proof & leaf proof your gutters Free Estimates

Peyton Hopkins Call 706-546-7438 AthensExterminating.net PO Box 5772 7080 Smokey Rd. Athens GA 30604 Lic. Trapper #99993 DO YOU OFFER A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE? Let us help you grow your business! To advertise, call 706.549.FAST

Tell our advertisers you saw them in The Oconee Leader • Go to theoconeeleader.com for picture galleries

Thursday, November 12, 2015 Shopping

3910

HUGE ESTATE

Home Services

3520

Home Services

3520

Home Services

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Home Services

3520

EDT CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

AUCTION

9:30AM Sat Nov 14 Gates open at 8AM 1900 Smithonia-Colbert Rd Colbert, Ga. 30628 JD 450H crawler, JD6403 tractor w/cab, Hitachi excavator, Liebherr 622 loader, bottle collection, 2002 Harley w/3300 miles, custom chopper, Ford 8N, JD G, farm implements, cars, trucks, trailers, antique farm collectibles and lots more! GAL2585 Photos Gallery at

* 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

METAL OR SHINGLES • We do ALL the work & repairs: soffit, cornice, fascia & painting

State Licensed & Insured

For ALL Your HOME IMPROVEMENTS, Large Or Small, Call Today For A FREE ESTIMATE

www.samwillauction.com

Sam Williamson 706 202-2685

Home Services

Home Services

3520

Page 7

706-202-6066 Call Anytime & Ask for ET Visit our website at www.edtconstruction.com edtconstruction@yahoo.com

3520

Serving Athens since 1989

Plumber Pro Service and Drain

Your Residential Plumbing Service Experts

www.gbedellconstruction.com

706-769-7761

www.plumberproservice.com www.facebook.com/plumberproservice

Master Plumber License #Mp210274 • Insured • Free Estimates

Looking for a landscaper?

Bickley’s Tree Service

$25 First Time Customer Discount $30 Senior Citizen Discount

LOOK NO FURTHER!

PROFESSIONAL

DO YOU OFFER A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE? Let us help you grow your business! To advertise, call 706.549.FAST

The Professional Services Directory is Oconee County’s trusted source for local landscape & lawn maintenance providers!

f Tree Service f Lawn Maintenance f Stump Grinding f Brush Chipping f Bobcat f Dump Truck Insured

Lamar Adams 706-224-2079 DO YOU OFFER A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE? Let us help you grow your business! To advertise, call 706.549.FAST

To Advertise: Phone 706.208.2290 Administrative Clerical

1020

Administrative Clerical

1020

The City of Commerce is currently accepting applications for the position of Gas Crew Technician

This position is responsible for the installation, construction and repair of the city-operated natural gas distribution system and services.

Requirements: • Possession of or ability to readily obtain the appropriate State of Georgia operator certification for gas distribution • DOT certified welder preferred • Knowledge of all aspects of a municipal gas distribution system

Please view the city’s website www.commercega.org. for a complete job description. You may apply online or in person at City Hall, 27 Sycamore Street Commerce, GA, 30529. Please direct inquiries to tracyw@commercega.org.

The City of Commerce offers a benefits package which includes health and dental insurance, retirement, vacation and paid holidays.

The starting hourly rate for this position is $15.95/hour.

The City of Commerce is an EOE and a drug-free workplace.

Open until Filled.

Clarke County Health Department is seeking a Clerk for our Teen Matters Clinics.

The duties would include greeting patients, answer phones, obtain confidential information from patients, enter information into computer, and file paper work. Other duties as assigned in support of management and staff. Requires good customer service and computer skills. The hours for this position are Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Minimum Qualifications: A High school graduate or GED and 1 year of clerical experience OR one year of vocational/technical school or college.

Medical experience preferred.

Excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, annual and sick leave, health insurance and retirement plans. Salary is $22,406/year.

Please send resume and cover letter to DPH-HRDistrict10Athens@dph.ga.gov for consideration. Deadline to apply is November 13, 2015.

Administrative Clerical

1020

Established dental office is seeking an energetic, bilingual, teachable people person to work at the front desk who is computer savvy.

Great Opportunity for a motivated individual.

Competitive Pay + bonuses and incentives.

Please fax cover letter, references and resume to 706-546-8418 or email to drmcrae995@yahoo.com Medical / Health

1380

Medical / Health

1380

Local medical office seeks to fill FT Case Manager/ Pharmacy Tech/ Insurance Biller/ Customer Service Position.

Previous medical or pharmacy experience preferred.

Please email resume to psiresume@hotmail.com.

To Advertise, Call 706.208.2290 Medical / Health

1380

Health Counselor

The Clarke County Health Department seeks a Health Counselor. Must be comfortable with speaking with clients one-on-one and in small groups regarding multiple health-related topics including sexuality, birth control, smoking, and other issues. Must have basic computer and data entry skills.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED and two years’ experience in a social services related position OR Bachelor’s degree in a social services related field. Experience in healthcare or public health preferred.

Bilingual in Spanish a plus.

Excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, annual and sick leave, health insurance and retirement plans. Salary is $24,000/year.

PLEASE SEND ALL RESUMES TO DPH-HRDistrict10Athens@dph.ga.gov for consideration. Deadline to apply is November 13, 2015.

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

Installation / Maintenance / Repair

1260

Installation / Maintenance / Repair

1260

INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE MECHANIC

Are you looking for a rewarding job with a World Class Team?

Are you looking for a job where you can use your technical talents and make a difference?

J. M. Huber Corporation is a broad range of industries with innovative products and services and offers an excellent benefit package.

Our Huber Engineered Woods LLC Division (HEW) has opportunities for an INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE MECHANIC at our manufacturing facility in Commerce, GA where we produce oriented strand board (OSB). Huber Engineered Woods LLC is a World Class company with a World Class team.

The successful candidate should have: • 3 – 5 years experience as an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, multicraft or millwright.

• Knowledge, experience and troubleshooting skills in mechanical drive systems, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, conveying systems, cutting/ welding techniques.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints • Computer skills • High School diploma or equivalent required and/or technical degree preferred.

This job involves 8 or 12 hour shifts and a rotating schedule.

We offer a salary of up to $25.65 per hour, Team Pay Bonus, Profit Sharing, 401(k) employee savings plan with company match, company retirement contribution, vacation, 12 paid holidays, medical coverage including prescription and vision program, dental coverage, paid life insurance, short term/long term disability, and flexible spending accounts

Interested candidates should send resumes to: Human Resources Department 1442 Highway 334, Commerce, GA 30530 E-mail: HEWCGHRDEPT@huber.com Fax: (706) 336-3084 An Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/ Women/ Veterans/Disabled

QA Technician Benson’s Old Home Kitchens, in Bogart, GA has an employment opportunity available for a Quality Assurance Technician on third shift.

Applicants must be available to work weekends when required.

Prefer candidates with previous quality assurance experience in food processing. Competitive salary and benefits offered, including company paid employee health/life insurance with options for vision, dental and 401-k retirement plan.

Application can be completed in person at Benson’s Bakery, 134 Elder Street, Bogart, GA 30622 or on line at www.bensonsbakery.com.

Certified Georgia Drug-Free Workplace. EOE. Education/Training

1180

Education/Training

1180

North Georgia Technical College Clarkesville Georgia

Welding Instructor, FT Diploma on Welding and 3 years in-field work experience; welding tests required.

Grants Coordinator, FT Bachelor’s degree and 2 years related work experience

For application and more information, including preferred qualifications and application procedure, download position announcement from https://northgatech.edu/pages/jobs.aspx Criminal history and MVR required for recommended candidate NGTC is EOE Logistics / Transportation

HOME WEEKLY NEW Southeast Regional PAY INCREASE!

Company & Independent Contractors Needed 6 Day Refresher Course Avail.

In Business over 50 years!

855-378-9335 EOE KLLM.com

1140

Customer Support / Client Care

1140

BankSouth is looking for associates who can provide first-class, knowledge-based service to our customers from our new dedicated customer care center in our Town Center branch, Watkinsville GA. Candidates need to possess the following: exceptional service skills with a minimum of two (2) years of customer service experience; excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to multi-task as an individual and work in a fast-paced team environment; good organizational & prioritization skills for returning customer calls, servicing customer accounts and maintaining records of transactions; ability to listen to/hear customer requests and cross-reference and offer other bank products according to customer need. Must possess (or have the ability to quickly demonstrate) a firm understanding of online banking, including enrollment, bill pay, funds transfer, mobile check deposit, mobile banking (IOS and Android) and business banking. Must have working knowledge of MS products (Word, Excel, Outlook, Windows-based computer). Knowledge of Bankway and/or other banking products is a plus. A solid, verifiable work history and acceptable references are required. We seek both full time, Monday through Friday candidates, as well as those who may want to work weekends only. Please specify preference when you respond. If you have the desire to part of a first-rate customer service experience in a collaborative, supportive work environment, with excellent benefits, please send a resume and cover letter to Michal Lozanski (mlozanski@banksouth.com) Manufacturing / Production / Operations

1340

Manufacturing / Production / Operations

1340

Vibration Analysis Technician Technical Support Specialist (IT) Temporary Position

J. M. Huber Corporation is a broad range of industries with innovative products. Our Huber Engineered Woods LLC Division (HEW) has an opportunity for a Technical Support Specialist (IT) Temporary Position with the possibility of becoming full-time depending on performance. This position would assist the IT Manager with Plant and Divisional IT duties at our manufacturing facility in Commerce, GA where we produce oriented strand board (OSB) and is located 20 minutes from Athens, GA. Huber Engineered Woods LLC is a World Class company with a World Class team.

Applicants should have experience in PC (software and hardware) troubleshooting, software and hardware installation, Imaging Hard drives, Network Systems, installing operating systems, Microsoft Office, and Windows 2000/XP. Knowledge in Exchange/ Outlook and Citrix will be a plus.

AS or BS in Computer Science, Electrical/ Computer Engineering preferred but not required. Experience preferred is 1 plus years.

Interested candidates should send resumes to:

Human Resources Department 1442 Highway 334 Commerce, GA 30530 E-mail: HEWCGHRDEPT@huber.com Fax: (706) 336-3084

An equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/ Women/Veterans/Disabled

Sales Retail/Business Development

1320

Driver- CDL/A $3000 Sign On Bonus for Experienced Drivers Paid Out within 30 days of 1st dispatch!

Customer Support / Client Care

1460

Sales Retail/Business Development

1460

Find that new career today!

Seasonal Christmas Ornaments at Georgia Square Mall

Description: This job is a relationship of fun for the holidays. You will be helping customers relate life experiences into Christmas ornaments. We are building memories for all to enjoy each Christmas and future Christmas’ through our personalized ornaments. If you are looking for a fun and exciting job and love the holidays you have found it with Ornament Workshop. We can work around different schedules for full-time or part-time positions. Have a Merry Christmas!

Requirements: Have the ability to multi-task, always have a positive attitude and preferred but not required good handwriting. Assist customers is selecting ornaments, handling customer special orders, and providing excellent customer service. Email resume or request application to christmasornamentsspectrum@gmail.com.

Call 706.208.2290 to advertise your job opening in the Oconee Leader.

Page 8

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Tell our advertisers you saw them in The Oconee Leader