December 1, 2017 — Gwinnett Daily Post

BACKFIELD BRIGADE, 1B

GAC running backs key to Spartans’ semifinals run

Gwinnett Daily Post FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

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75 cents ©2017 SCNI

Vol. 48, No. 34

Buford man is arrested for alleged sex assault

SEC CHAMPIONSHIP Georgia vs. Auburn, 4 p.m. Saturday, CBS

BY TREVOR MCNABOE trevor.mcnaboe@gwinnettdailypost.com

Tales from champions

From left, Gwinnett grads David Greene, Ian Knight and Jon Stinchcomb, played on the 2002 University of Georgia SEC champion football team. (Photo: Anthony Stalcup)

BY CHRIS STARRS Staff Correspondent

It’s likely that the Georgia Bulldogs of 2017 will face a tougher fight to claim the Southeastern Conference championship Saturday than the 2002 team did in its championship quest.

No. 6 Georgia (11-1) will square off against No. 2 Auburn (10-2) for the league crown in Atlanta, and the battle is expected to be much more arduous than the 2002 team’s 30-3 victory over Arkansas in the now-imploded Georgia Dome.

Former Gwinnett County high school standouts David Greene (South Gwinnett grad), Jon Stinchcomb (Parkview) and Ian Knight (Brookwood) — all starters on the 2002 edition of the Bulldogs, along with current ESPN analyst David Pollack (Shiloh) — reflected this week on that historic day 15 years ago and on the task Georgia faces Saturday. Greene, Stinchcomb and Knight met up Thursday afternoon for volunteer work at the Allstate All Hands In event at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys and Girls Club in Atlanta,

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See ASSAULT, Page 7A

Gwinnett grads from Georgia’s 2002 team reflect on winning title

We jumped on Arkansas pretty quickly in the first quarter, and we had all the momentum in the world in that first quarter and took control of the game pretty quickly.”

— Ian Knight, Brookwood grad and former Georgia center

We dominated that game from start to finish. I don’t even know if I played at all in the fourth quarter.”

— David Greene, South Gwinnett grad and former Georgia quarterback

You see (willingness to sacrifice) from this team, and it’s what you see from a lot of great teams — players with star potential who are willing to sacrifice individual for team. That’s what’s been fun to watch.”

— Jon Stinchcomb, Parkview grad and former Georgia tackle

allowing them time to share memories from their championship season in 2002 that snapped a 20-year SEC title drought for the Bulldogs.

All three concurred that coach Mark Richt’s Bulldogs were riding a tsunami of energy going into the game, which continued after Georgia blocked an Arkansas punt early in the first quarter and scored a touchdown before many fans were comfortably settled in to watch the game.

“It was a situation where

A Buford man has been arrested for rape, false imprisonment, robbery and two counts of aggravated assault following a weeklong search for him by Gwinnett County police.

Officers initially responded to a call on Nov. 24 at Grand Ashbury Lane in Buford, when the victim showed up at a neighbor’s home fully nude, her hands bound with rope and duct tape Thuan Q. on her head and neck, Dinh police said. Responding officers said they determined that the event occurred at 594 Grand Ashbury Lane.

The suspect was identified as Thuan Q. Dinh, and police said he traveled to California and brought the woman back to Georgia before tying her up and raping

we grabbed the momentum very early on a punt block by, I think, Decory Bryant within the first minute or two of the game, and we were on the 1- or 2-yard line and with one play we were up 7-0,” said Knight, who started at center after a standout career as a Brookwood tight end. “And our defense was just lights out.

We jumped on Arkansas pretty quickly in the first quarter, and we had all the momentum in the world in that first quarter and took control of the game

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pretty quickly.”

“Arkansas was a good team, but we just knocked them out of the game before they even had a chance to gain some traction,” said Stinchcomb, Georgia’s left tackle. “And, really, we were playing some good football at that time of year and we were able to put a good team in a position where they couldn’t be nearly as competitive as they wanted to be. It made for a much nicer experience on our end.”

The source of that emotional and physical trust, however, was recalled differently by the former Bulldogs, who after the SEC title game posted a Sugar Bowl victory over Florida State and finished ranked No. 3 in the country.

Greene, the southpaw quarterback who set and still holds numerous SEC and NCAA records, said the team was at a fever pitch after dismantling Georgia Tech 51-7 the week before, but Knight said the See GEORGIA, Page 8A

GEORGIA GWINNETT COLLEGE

New major focuses on care of aging population

BY TREVOR MCNABOE trevor.mcnaboe@gwinnettdailypost.com

It’s been a long road for Georgia Gwinnett College School of Liberal Arts Dean Adolfo Santos and Associate Dean Laurel Holland: four years of planning, proposals and making sure they satisfied the requirements put in place by the University System of Georgia.

The pair’s hard work has given the GwinnettAdolfo based college the distincSantos tion of being the only school in the University System with a four-year degree program on Human Development and Aging Services.

The idea for the major came four years ago with a conversation Santos had with James Bulot, Laurel Holland who was the Director of the Division of Aging Services in Georgia at the time.

“He came to us and said his department had around 300 positions every

See MAJOR, Page 7A

Golf tournament raises $13,650 for treatment of addiction

BY CURT YEOMANS

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

There are 13,650 new ways in which Joe Abraham is helping shape the fight against opioid addiction in Gwinnett County.

That’s the number of dollars the Knights of Columbus St. Marguerite d’Youville Council 12905 raised for Navigate Recovery Gwinnett during its annual golf tournament in

late October.

The council raises funds for a different group or individual each year based on need.

Joe This year, Abraham it chose Navigate Recovery in memory of Abraham, who died in May from a fentanyl overdose. He was one of two Lawrenceville teens, the other being Dustin

Manning, who lived on the same street and died of an overdose on the same morning.

“We needed to do something to make his death into something good, which is what he would want us to do,” said Ron Holmes, a member of the council and Abraham’s uncle.

The money was presented to Navigate Recovery officials Wednesday during a short ceremony at their office in See ADDICTION, Page 7A

Ron Holmes from Knights of Columbus St. Marguerite d’Youville Council 12905 presents a ceremonial check for $13,650 to Navigate Recovery Gwinnett’s Farley and Susan Barge during a short ceremony at the organization’s office in Lawrenceville on Wednesday. (Staff Photo: Curt Yeomans)

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2A • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

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Dacula swimmer hopes for medal at World Para contest

BY TAYLOR DENMAN

taylor.denman @gwinnettdailypost.com

Sixteen-year-old Dacula native McClain Hermes has already accomplished a lot as a competitive swimmer.

At 15, Hermes qualified for the U.S. Paralympic swim team and traveled to Rio de Janeiro. She swam in three events — the 100-meter backstroke, 100 breaststroke and 400 freestyle — and advanced to the finals in 100 backstroke.

Hermes, who has managed her degenerative blindness due to Wagner Syndrome since she was 8, is set for a new challenge at the World Para Swimming Championships in Mexico City beginning Saturday.

“I’m really excited to go to worlds,” Hermes said.

“Rio was a lot of fun, but I was only 15, so it was a learning experience. A year older, I’m able to do more and compete in more events.

“A lot of the athletes (in Rio) stepped up and acted like surrogate parents and all made sure I was OK. If I ever needed anything, I knew I had all of my teammates supporting me.

It was nice, because it was a learning experience, and I was able to learn from the older athletes who competed before at the Paralympic Games and see how they handled the games, the pressure and the stress.

They gave me some really good advice I can take into future experiences.”

Hermes will be expanding her portfolio of events in Mexico City as she aims for her first world medal.

In addition to the three events she competed in at the Paralympics, Hermes

Dacula native McClain Hermes swims during an event at the Paralympics in Rio de Janiero last summer. Hermes, also at right, travled to Mexico City this week to compete in Saturday’s World Para Swimming Championships. She was a member of the USA Paralympic swim team and competed in Rio De Janiero last summer. (Special Photos)

“

the opening.

She said she has kept a positive outlook throughout the successive surgeries, and swimming helps fuel her optimism.

— McClain Hermes, “The pool is my happy competitor in World Para Swimming Championships place and swimming is a great outlet for me,” she is adding the 50 freestyle, ly 300 people worldwide. said.

100 freestyle and the 200 Progressive blindness and Hermes joined Dynamo individual medley. retinal detachments in the Swim Club early in 2016 Her main concern is her eye are onset early and are and began to train for endurance in the longer sometimes hard to detect in the Paralympics in Rio. races, since Mexico City is children.

Her regimen was intense, at a high altitude compared Hermes said her parents she said, cramming in to Georgia. She’s also been originally suspected she 12 swimming sessions honing her butterfly stroke, was colorblind at 4 years per week between online which is not one of her old, but further examinaclasses, CrossFit and a reamore comfortable strokes, tions revealed she needed sonable amount of sleep. but is part of the 200 IM. emergency surgery to Planning around com“It’s a smaller team, so reattach her retina in her petitions can be hectic, but there’s more of a family as- left eye. That was followed she said her teachers at pect,” Hermes said. “It’s a by three more emergency Gwinnett Online Campus shorter meet with back-to- surgeries on her right eye. are accommodating, and back events, which is kind She is now completely she’ll have completed her of difficult. I’m swimming blind in her right eye and fall semester course work a bunch of new races I can mostly tell the differbefore leaving for worlds. don’t swim, and hopefully ence between light and The average weekday I can medal.” dark in her left eye. She for Hermes starts with a Wagner Syndrome is an now describes her vision 5:45 a.m. training session. extremely rare hereditary as looking through a straw After two hours she heads disorder that affects rough- with wax paper covering home and does homework until she returns to the pool at 3:45 p.m. for a slightly longer session, plus any cross-training she does in between.

“My training isn’t as crazy as it was before Rio, but it’s still pretty intense,” Hermes said.

I’m really excited to go to worlds. Rio was a lot of fun, but I was only 15, so it was a learning experience. A year older, I’m able to do more and compete in more events.”

HOLIDAY

Hermes’ dedication is directed toward fulfilling a dream she had as a young swimmer. Hermes began swimming at 4 years old.

She started in summer leagues with her older brother and sister, before she even had the courage to swim across the full length of a pool.

“I’ve always wanted to be an Olympic swimmer,” she said. “I went blind when I was 8 and told my parents that I was going to go to the Paralympics.”

Hermes said travels as a teenager have also given her the opportunity to bond with other Paralympic swimmers. There aren’t many blind people in Dacula, and the first time Hermes met another blind person was at the Paralympics. She said she was able to share experiences with athletes, who are mostly older than her, and give her advice on anything from swimming to operating her new phone without eyesight.

In Rio, Hermes met Jenna Jones, an Australian swimmer who suffers from

a very similar eye condition and is very close in age to Hermes. The two formed a fast friendship and are still in contact today.

“I love being able to experience the different cultures and people who live there,” she said. “And eat the food.”

Beyond worlds, Hermes said she is determined to return to the Paralympics in Tokyo in 2020, followed by Paris in 2024 and Los Angeles in 2028. At worlds this week, Hermes also has a friend and good-luck charm in mind.

Around the time she was qualifying for the event in Mexico City, a friend of Hermes and fellow swimmer Grace Bunke, who had been fighting cancer in her spine, was informed she was no longer in remission. Hermes wrote her friend’s name on her hand before her qualifiers, and she plans on doing the same thing at worlds.

“Now I’m hoping to swim all my races for Grace and win her a medal,” she said.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017 • 3A

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Police ID victims New brew pub opens in Duluth in Buford shooting

BY CURT YEOMANS

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

BY CURT YEOMANS

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Gwinnett County police have identified the victims in a shooting that happened early Tuesday on Express Lane in unincorporated Buford.

Blake Schulte, 20, died from wounds he received in the shooting. Doraville resident Alexander Scott, 16, was also shot, but police said his current condition is unknown.

“Though no arrests have been made in this case as of now, the detective has been working diligently to piece the events of yesterday’s crime together,” police said in a statement. “We are still seeking tips in this case.”

Police were called to the Duncan Park neighborhood at 3 a.m. Tuesday on reports of gunshots. They found Scott laying in front of the neighborhood clubhouse

Good Word Brewing and Public House opened Tuesday in Duluth’s Parsons Alley entertainment and dining district. The brew pub is owned by the people behind Brick Store Pub in Decatur. (Staff Photo: Curt Yeomans)

and had him transported to Gwinnett Medical Center, where he underwent surgery.

On Tuesday, police said they believed Scott’s injuries were non-life-threatening.

Schulte’s body was found just before 7 a.m. in a vehicle that was located about 200 to 300 yards away from where Scott was found. Police said the car was on a dirt road just across the county line in Hall County.

Anyone who has information about the shooting is asked to call detectives at 770-513-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 404-577-8477.

They can also provide tips at www.crimestoppersataltanta. org. Crime Stoppers lets people provide tips anonymously and there is a reward of up to $2,000 for information that leads to an arrest and indictment.

Tipsters are asked to reference case number 17110948 when providing tips online or by telephone.

A long-awaited brew pub from the owners of Decatur-based Brick Store Pub opened this week in Duluth’s Parsons Alley dining and entertainment district.

Good Word Brewing and Public House, located next to Dreamland BBQ, opened its doors Tuesday night. The restaurant had been teasing on Facebook that it was close to opening for weeks, but announced was announced a year ago “The name of the place tember and Hope Springs on the social media site late that they would be coming is Good Word and it’s reDistillery, which produces Monday night that it would to Duluth, but the process ally all about spreading the vodka, opened in Lilburn open at 5 p.m. Tuesday. actually began long before good word,” he said. “That over the summer.

DiMatteo said he can see “It was great,” Good that. means communicating with Word owner and brewer “We looked for probeach other by putting down why there has been a rising interest in breweries, and Todd DiMatteo said. “We ably about two years for the cellphones, stepping particularly brew pubs, in had a blast. A lot of friends where we were going to away from the computGeorgia in recent years. from Decatur and a lot of put this place,” DiMatteo ers and just enjoying each “I think that every town new friends from Duluth said. “We looked all around other’s company. (were there), so it was a lot the perimeter. We saw this “We wanted an icon that kind of needs and wants a place that they can all of fun.” area about 20 months ago. kind of spoke to that, and commune and sit, talk and DiMatteo said Good It was under development. we felt the typewriter was drink good beer and have Word will be “completely It was mostly clay and dirt. a time that was before the great conversations and eat different” from Brick Store I think (O4W Pizza) was ‘inundated-with-everygood food uninterrupted by Pub because, whereas the pretty new at that point, but thing-now’ mentality, and Decatur business is a beer we kept looking around. We so for us it made sense. So neon signs and televisions,” bar, the Duluth restaurant just weren’t sure about the that’s why we adopted it as he said. “I think that’s as simple as the magic of a will be a brew pub where neighborhood. an icon for us.” the beer is made in-house.

“Our business partner, The restaurant is located brew pub, or a brewery, is.”

Good Word hasn’t been The menu at Good Word is Brian Skinner, actually in one of the newly built also different from the one lives in Suwanee, so he structures at Parsons Alley, the only restaurant preparing to open in Parsons at Brick Store Pub, he said. kept pushing this area and, which has already seen obscured, wielding a crow The few common I don’t know, the feel of several businesses, includ- Alley in recent months. Korean steakhouse and oyster bar. A police report states a threads, DiMatteo said, are the town, it just kind of felt ing Simply Done Donuts, sledgehammer and crowbar that he is involved in both right.”

Personify and Maple Street bar Noona has also been getting ready to open in a had been left behind. The Good Word and Brick Store Good Word Brewing and Biscuit Company, open surveillance system at the Pub, and that both locations Public House has nearly this year. The Chocolaterie location between Personify tax business that the susdeal with beer.

8,000 square feet of space, and Dreamland opened last and Maple Street Biscuit Company. pects initially broke into was There are a handful of including its brewery. It year.

Noona has posted signs damaged during the crime, beers brewed at the pub, will open nightly beginAlthough it is located according to a police report. including an IPA, an Ameri- ning at 5 p.m. It will serve across Lawrenceville Street in its windows proclaiming Officials said the suspects can blonde, an American food — with a menu that from Parsons Alley, Down- that it is opening soon and are believed to have been sour and an English Mild. is equal parts Latin and town Sub Shoppe Etc. also that anyone interested in eating there should check involved in burglaries at “Then we have some taps southern cuisine — until 10 opened this year. other AT&T stores in Winder, that are from our friends p.m. It will continue serv“We’re super happy that its Facebook and Instagram Dahlonega, Hall County, here in Georgia and some ing drinks, however, until we landed here, honestly,” pages for updates. It has not announced an opening date.

Forsyth County and Lumpkin are in other brew pubs that 11 p.m.

DiMatteo said.

Its most recent update on County. are in the state,” DiMatteo There are about 200 seats Good Word isn’t the Instagram was on Nov. 17, The store on Stone Moun- said. in the restaurant. only Gwinnett business tain Highway was previously Getting to this week’s If anyone is wonderthat has gotten into the beer when restaurant officials the target of an October 2014 opening was the result of ing why the restaurant’s brewing, or distilling, busi- showed off the logo painted on the building and said break-in, in which the safes a long process for DiMatlogo features a typewriter, ness this year. Slow Pour were also targeted but nothteo and the rest of the team DiMatteo said it is meant to Brewing Company opened they were “almost ready to share Noona with Duluth.” ing appeared to have been from Brick Store Pub. It tie into the name. in Lawrenceville in Sepstolen.

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE Anyone who has informaGWINNETT COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM PUBLIC NOTICE GWINNETT COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM PROPOSED AMENDED ACTION PLANS YEARS 2016-2017 tion on the case is asked to GWINNETT COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM PROPOSED AMENDED ACTION PLANS YEARS 2016-2017 PUBLICATION DATE: Friday December 1, 2017 PUBLISH IN: GWINNETT DAILY POST PROPOSED AMENDED ACTION PLANS YEARS 2016-2017 call detectives at 770-513PUBLICATION DATE: Friday 1,1,2017 IN: GWINNETT GWINNETT DAILY POST PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: 1, 2017- December 31, 2017 PUBLICATION DATE: FridayDecember DecemberDecember 2017 -- PUBLISH PUBLISH IN: DAILY POST 5300 or Crime Stoppers at PUBLIC PERIOD: December 1, 20172017December 31, 20172016-2017, which will be PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: December 1, 31, 2017 Gwinnett County publishes for COMMENT public comment its Proposed Amend ed December Action Plans Years 404-577-8477. They can also considered for approval by theforGwinnett County Board Commissioners on January 2, 2018.

Gwinnett County publishes public comment its of Proposed Amend ed Action Plans Years 2016-2017, which will be visit crimestoppersatlanta.

Gwinnett County publishes for public comment its Proposed Amended Action Plans Years 2016-2017, which will be considered for approval by the Gwinnett consideredCounty for approval by the amendments Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners on January 2018.

Gwinnett is proposing to its Action Plans to recapture funding2,from projects completed or proposed County Board of Commissioners on January 2, 2018. org. Crime Stoppers tipsters that were County under budget and reallocate those to funds to pending throughout thefrom county that, upon approval, could be Gwinnett is proposing amendments its Action Plansprojects to recapture funding projects completed or proposed can remain anonymous, and implemented immediately.

Gwinnett County is proposing itsreallocate Action Plans to funds recapture funding from projects completed or that, proposed that werecould under that wereamendments under budgetto and those to pending projects throughout the county upon approval, bebudget and reallocate the group offers rewards of those funds to pending throughout that, uponinput approval, be implemented immediately. implemented immediately.

A projects Public Hearing will be the heldcounty to receive citizen for thecould Proposed Amended Action Plans: up to $2,000 if a tip leads to A Public be held to receive inputAmended for the Proposed A Public Hearing will be held toHearing receivewill citizen input for thecitizen Proposed Action Amended Plans: Action Plans: an arrest and indictment.

Public Hearing Location Address Date Time Anyone who provides Public Hearing Location Address Date Time One Justice Square; 446 West Crogan Street Gwinnett Community information is asked to Tuesday, December 19, 10:00 AM SuiteSquare; 275; Conference Room Street Development Office One Justice 446 West Crogan Gwinnett Community reference case number 17Tuesday, 2017 December 19, 10:00 AM Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Suite 275; Conference Room Development Office 102663.

2017 Lawrenceville, GA 30046

Police seek info on wireless store theft

BY CURT YEOMANS

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Gwinnett County police are seeking the public’s help to find two suspects in a burglary at an AT&T store in unincorporated Stone Mountain.

The suspects are believed to have been involved in a series of other burglaries at stores as far away as Dahlonega.

The burglary at the store located at 5170 Stone Mountain Highway happened at 4:30 a.m. Nov. 3. Police believe the pair broke into the store by forcing their way in through the back door of a neighboring tax business and then breaking through a shared wall.

They then climbed through the ceiling from a break room into a room where AT&T’s safes were located. One of the safes had been turned on its side and had been tampered with on the bottom.

“Though the suspects attempted to break open the safes in a back room, it doesn’t appear that any property was stolen,” police said.

Surveillance photos show a person wearing all white, with most of his or her face

School groups to sing carols at GJAC

BY CURT YEOMANS

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

The public comment period for the documents referenced above is December 1, 2017 – December 31, 2017. A summary of

all comments received during comment period will to the Gwinnett County Board ofof Commissioners The public comment period forthe thepublic documents above isprovided December 1, 2017 December 31, 2017.

Aallsummary of received during the The public comment period for the documents referenced above isreferenced December 1,be 2017 – December 31,–2017.

A summary comments before their action on January 2, 2018. all comments received during the public comment period will be provided to the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners public comment period will be provided to the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners before their action on January 2, 2018. before action on 2, 2018.

Writtentheir comments on January the Proposed Amended Action Plans 2016-2017 must be received by January 2, 2018 9:00AM at:

Written comments on the Proposed Amended Action Plans 2016-2017 must be received by January 2, 2018 9:00AM at:

Written comments on the Proposed Amended Action Plans 2016-2017 must be received by January 2, 2018 9:00AM at: GwinnettCounty County Community Community Development Program Gwinnett Development Program One JusticeSquare, Square, 446West West Crogan Street, 275, 30046-2439 Gwinnett County Community Development Program GAGA One Justice 446 Crogan Street,Suite Suite 275,Lawrenceville, Lawrenceville, 30046-2439 Telephone 678-518-6008; Fax 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com One Justice Square, 446 West Crogan Street, Suite 275, Lawrenceville, GA 30046-2439

Telephone 678-518-6008; Fax 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com

AT A GLANCE

Telephone 678-518-6008; Fax 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com

GWINNETT COUNTY,GEORGIA GEORGIA –– PROPOSED PROPOSED AMENDED ACTION PLANS 2016-2017 GWINNETT COUNTY, AMENDED ACTION PLANS 2016-2017

Caroling schedule Today: 11 to 11:30 a.m., Winn Holt Elementary Wednesday: 11 to 11:30 a.m., Berkmar High Dec. 7: 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Woodward Mill Elementary; 1 to 1:30 p.m., Discovery High Dec. 11: 11 to 11:30 a.m., Meadowcreek High; 11:40 a.m. to 12:31 p.m., Crews Middle Dec. 12: 11 to 11:30 a.m., Minor Elementary; 11:40 a.m. to 12:10 p.m., Cedar Hill Elementary Dec. 13: 11 to 11:30 a.m., Tripp Elementary Dec. 14: 1 to 1:30 p.m., North Gwinnett Middle Dec. 15: 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Shiloh Middle; 11:40 a.m. to 12:10 p.m., Summerour Middle; 1 to 1:30 p.m., Level Creek Elementary

GWINNETT COUNTY, GEORGIA – PROPOSED AMENDED ACTION PLANS 2016-2017 The table below identifies the project details for recaptured funding and proposed project details forproject reprogramming those funds forthose rapid implementation for The table below identifies the project details for recaptured funding and proposed details for reprogramming the Community Development Block Grant Program. funds for rapid implementation for the Community Development Block Grant Program.

The table below identifies the project details for recaptured funding and proposed project details for reprogramming those

The Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center will be filled with little voices making a big effort to fill the courthouse with holiday cheer this month.

Gwinnett County students will perform occassionally at the courthouse and county administration building, which is located at 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville, beginning today.

The schedule of school groups performing at GJAC goes through Dec. 15.

Each school group will be singing holiday songs during lunchtime hours on the second floor of the GJAC atrium, overlooking visitors as they enter the building.

The performances will be recorded by county demand at www.gwinofficials and broadcast nettcounty.com. on TVGwinnett and on

Block Grant GrantProgram.

[CDBG] funds for rapid implementation for the Community Community Development Development Block Grant Year Organization Activity Community Development Block Grant [CDBG] Grant Year FY2016 FY2016 FY2016

City of Buford City of Dacula

FY2016 FY2017

City ofand Dacula Boys Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta Special Olympics of Georgia

FY2017 FY2017 FY2017

FY2017

($269,274.00) ($29,500.00)

Atlanta Gwinnett County Gwinnett County Project Community Connections Inc. Project Community Partnership Against Domestic Connections Inc. Violence Partnership Against Domestic Violence

Homeowner Housing Rehabilitation Program Homeowner Housing Lawrenceville HVAC System Rehabilitation Club Program Replacement Lawrenceville Club HVAC System Homeowner Housing Replacement Rehabilitation Program Homeowner Housing Operating Costs: Rapid Rehabilitation Program Rehousing Operating Costs: Rapid Operating Costs: Domestic Rehousing Violence Shelter Operating Costs: Domestic

Total Reprogrammed CDBG Funds FY2016 & FY2017 Violence Shelter

$7,402.00 $7,402.00 $269,274.00 $269,274.00 $9,500.00 $9,500.00 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $306,176.00

funds for rapid for thedetails Emergency Solutions funding Grant Program.

The table belowimplementation identifies the project for recaptured and proposed project details for reprogramming those Emergency Solutions Grant [ESG] [ESG] Emergency Solutions funds for rapid implementation for the Emergency Solutions GrantGrant Program.

Grant Year Organization Activity Proposed Change Emergency Solutions Grant [ESG] Homeless Management FY2016 Gwinnett County ($4,500.00) Information System FY2016 Gwinnett County Administration ($12,205.65) Total Recaptured ESG Funds FY2016 ($16,705.65)

Project Community Connections, Inc.

Rapid Rehousing Total Reprogrammed ESG Funds FY2016

$16,705.65 $16,705.65

Section 504 - Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Disabilities of 1990Act [ADA], As Amended Section 504 - Rehabilitation ActAmericans of 1973 andwith Americans with Act Disabilities of 1990 [ADA], As Amended Gwinnett County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its

Gwinnett County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. Any programs or activities. Any requests for reasonable accommodations required by individuals to participate in any open meeting, requests for reasonable accommodations requiredCounty by individuals to participate in any open should meeting, or Gwinnett activity ofCounty the Gwinnett County Community program or activity of the Gwinnett Community Development Program be program directed to Community Development Program should be directed Gwinnett County Community Program, One Justice Square, 446 West Crogan Street, Suite 275, LawDevelopment Program, One to Justice Square, 446 West Crogan Development Street, Suite 275, Lawrenceville, GA 30046-2439; Telephone 678-518renceville, GA 30046-2439; Telephone 678-518-6008; Fax 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com.

6008; Fax 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com.

Fair Housing ActFair of Housing 1968, AsAct Amended, Section 800 Accommodations, and Federaland Register, 3, 2012; 5662 of 1968, As Amended, Section 800 Accommodations, FederalFeb. Register, Feb.Page 3, 2012; Page 5662 In an to ongoing to provide services activities in a nondiscriminatory County has a strong In an ongoing effort provideeffort housing serviceshousing and activities in aand nondiscriminatory manner, Gwinnettmanner, CountyGwinnett has a strong commitment to affirmatively furcommitment to affirmatively furthering fair housing by workingand to ensure equalgrant housing opportunities accessand to HUD grant are available for thering fair housing by working to ensure that equal housing opportunities accessthat to HUD funded programs,and projects, activities funded programs, projects, and activities are available for all persons, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, all persons, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, familial status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. If you think familial status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. If you think your rights have been violated, please your rights havecontact been violated, please contact the Gwinnett County Community Development Program, One Justice Square, 446 West Crogan Street, Suite 275, the Gwinnett County Community Development Program, One Justice Square, 446 West Crogan Street, Suite 275, Lawrenceville, Lawrenceville, GA Telephone678-518-6008; 678-518-6008; 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com.

GA 30046-2439; 30046-2439; Telephone FaxFax 678-518-6071; Email gchcd@gwinnettcounty.com.

1641-1

521419-1

2176 Oak Road, Suite C, Snellville 855-875-2842 • www.audiologysnellville.com

($36.00) ($269,274.00)

Totalproposed Reprogrammed Funds FY2016 & FY2017those funds $306,176.00 The table below identifies the project details for recaptured funding and projectCDBG details for reprogramming for rapid implementation for The table below identifies the project details for recaptured funding and proposed project details for reprogramming those the Emergency Solutions Grant Program.

The Audiology Center of Snellville

Samuel F. Vaught, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

($7,366.00) ($36.00)

($306,176.00)

Gwinnett County Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro

FY2017 FY2017

Proposed Change ($7,366.00)

($29,500.00) ($306,176.00)

FY2016 FY2017

FY2017 FY2017

Proposed Change

Total Recaptured CDBG Funds FY2016 & FY2017 Gwinnett County

FY2017 FY2017

Garner Street—Water Activity Improvements Garner Street—Water Majestic Circle—Street Improvements Improvements Majestic Circle—Street Lawrenceville Club Athletic Improvements Field UpgradesClub Athletic Lawrenceville Equipment Purchase: Athletic Field Upgrades Equipment Equipment Purchase: Athletic

Special Olympics of Georgia Total Recaptured EquipmentCDBG Funds FY2016 & FY2017

FY2016

FY2017

Providing personalized hearing healthcare that connects you to your family and your world.

Call us today and experience the difference a personalized hearing solution can make for you!

Organization City of Buford

4A • Friday, December 1, 2017 To Your Good Health

gwinnettdailypost.com

today

20%

Keith Roach

Lymphedema causes lifetime of precautions DEAR DR. ROACH: I have some questions after a recent surgery. I had a lumpectomy on my left breast, and five lymph nodes were removed. I was told not to have my blood pressure taken at, shots given into or blood taken from that arm. I have asked a few doctors and nurses how long I have to wait to use that arm again for these procedures. I have been told anywhere from a year to the rest of my life. I also wonder what happens if I am in an accident and cannot talk and the medical responders use that arm. What is going to happen? No one seems to be able to tell me.

— W.S. ANSWER: The concern is that you may develop a condition called lymphedema. The lymphatic vessels normally take up fluid from the soft tissues of the body and return it to circulation. If these vessels are damaged, through radiation, cancer or other means, (sometimes we never know how it happens), then the affected limb can swell.

The swelling from lymphedema doesn’t get better overnight as well as the swelling that comes from leaky valves in the veins (venous incompetence).

Because of the surgery, and especially if the lump was cancerous, you are at risk for developing lymphedema, which can be triggered by a simple medical procedure of the type you describe. Your condition is sometimes referred to as “stage 0 lymphedema,” meaning you have risk but no symptoms. In an emergency, of course the priority is to get you resuscitated. Even if you have an IV or blood pressure taken, you are not likely to develop lymphedema, but not getting these procedures done reduces your risk. Lymphedema has a very significant impact on people’s quality of life, so it is much better to prevent this disease than it is to have to treat it.

I would recommend avoiding procedures on that arm for life. Also, any minor injuries on that arm, as simple as a paper cut or insect bite, should be treated aggressively with topical antibiotics, moisturizers and anti-itch medication to reduce any damage to the skin. It’s infection that is the biggest risk for triggering symptomatic lymphedema.

The booklet on edema and lymphedema provides information on the causes of foot and ankle swelling.

Readers can order a copy by writing: Dr. Roach Book No. 106 628 Virginia Drive Orlando, FL 32803 Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Can. with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu or request an order form of available health newsletters at 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. Health newsletters may be ordered from www.rbmamall.com.

HOroscopes

weather watch

67 47

saturday

sunday

monday

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thursday

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solunar tables The Gwinnett Daily Post (UPSP 921-980, ISSN 10860096) is published Wednesday, Friday and Sunday by SCNI, 725 Old Norcross Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30045. Periodical postage paid at Lawrenceville, GA 30044. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gwinnett Daily Post, P.O. Box 603, Lawrenceville, GA 30046-0603.

The solunar tables for lakes are based on studies that show fish and game are more active at certain times during the lunar period.

Major

10:36 a.m.-12:36 p.m. ....................... 11:04 p.m.-1:04 a.m.

Minor

4:47-5:57 a.m..............4:17-5:17 p.m.

pollen counts Trees: Low Weeds: Low Grass: Low

Lake

50

30

39

lake levels Full Yesterday Lake

Full Yesterday

Allatoona..............(840.0)......832.44 Lanier..................(1071.0)....1065.49 Blackshear............(237.0)......236.80 Nottely................(1779.0).... 1761.63 Blue Ridge.........(1690.0)....1669.65 Oconee................(435.0)......434.94 Burton................(1865.0)....1862.13 Seminole.................(77.5)........76.50 Carters............... (1072.0)....1070.43 Sinclair.................(339.8)......338.35 Chatuge..............(1927.0).....1917.78 Thurmond............(330.0)...... 321.07 Harding.................(521.0)......520.72 Tugalo....................(891.5)......888.29 Hartwell................(660.0)......652.13 Walter F. George.. (188.0).......187.20 Jackson................(530.0)......528.80 West Point............(635.0)......628.20

today in history

lottery Thursday Cash 3 Midday: 9-2-6 Cash 4 Midday: 8-6-0-6 Ga. 5 Midday: 6-6-2-7-6 Wednesday Cash 3 Midday: 6-9-5 Cash 3 Evening: 9-0-5 Cash 3 Night: 7-1-4 Cash 4 Midday: 4-4-9-4 Cash 4 Evening: 4-0-5-9 Cash 4 Night: 9-1-4-6 Ga. 5 Midday: 3-3-0-0-2 Ga. 5 Evening: 3-7-3-6-6 Fantasy 5: 31-33-36-39-40 Powerball: 24-26-28-59-63, Powerball: 16, Power Play: 3X

TODAY’S HISTORY: In 1913, the Ford Motor Company began operation of its first assembly line.

In 1955, Rosa Parks refused to sit in the back of a bus in Montgomery, Ala., sparking a new era in the civil rights movement.

In 1969, the United States instituted its first draft lottery since World War II. In 2008, the National Bureau of Economic Research declared that the United States had been in an official recession since December 2007.

In 2013, China launched Yutu, its first lunar rover.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS: Marie Tussaud (1761-1850), museum founder; Rex Stout (1886-1975), author; Mary Martin (1913-1990), actress; Lou Rawls (1933-2006), singer-songwriter; Woody Allen (1935- ), filmmaker/comedian; Lee Trevino (1939- ), golfer; Richard Pryor

(1940-2005), actor/comedian; Bette Midler (1945- ), singer/actress; Nestor Carbonell (1967- ), actor; Sarah Silverman (1970- ), actress/comedian; Akiva Schaffer (1977- ), actor/filmmaker; DeSean Jackson (1986- ), football player.

TODAY’S FACT: At the time of the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955, about 70 percent of bus riders in the city were African-American.

TODAY’S SPORTS: In 1924, Brooklyn pitcher Dazzy Vance (28 wins, 2.16 ERA, 262 strikeouts) won the National League MVP award over Rogers Hornsby, who had batted .424 for the season.

TODAY’S QUOTE: “What I’m saying might be profane, but it’s also profound.”

— Richard Pryor, “Pryor Convictions: and Other Life Sentences” TODAY’S MOON: Between first quarter moon (Nov. 26) and full moon (Dec. 3).

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To Report a News Item: Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Call 770-3395850. Editor Todd Cline is at Editor – Todd Cline to start your subscription.

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We only redeliver on Sunday and Monday.

All other delivery days that are missed, we will have this paper delivered with the next day paper delivery at the request of the customer.

Holidays bring up painful challenges Dear Amy: I am currently separated from my husband of less than a year, due to some pretty serious rage and respect issues that snowballed immediately after we wed.

My husband has voluntarily enrolled in a 52-week domestic violence course and is committed to recovery and discovering how to be compassionate and empathetic.

On the recommendation of our marriage counselor, we have decided to remain separated for the duration of the course.

We are still very much in love and committed to working through this tough time together, despite being apart.

My question is about the holidays. Would it be appropriate for the two of us to attend family functions together during the holidays, even though we live separately?

We both agree it would be weird for us and our family, but on the other hand, we are committed, still married and doing all we can to save our marriage. It would feel confusing for everyone if we showed up together, but it seems a shame to spend this time apart.

Please help us decide, is there something we aren’t considering?

— Wife-ing at a distance Dear Wife-ing: My instinct is that it would NOT be wise for the two of you to jointly attend family events over the holidays.

The reason isn’t neces-

adult) children were young.

Growing up, my parents always had epic fights on Thanksgiving and Christmas (their fights on all the other days were less epic).

Fortunately, my family lives out-of -tate, so we get together with my spouse’s siblings for holiday celebrations.

Amy Dickinson I have longstanding issues with depression. I take sarily because it would be medication and see a thera“weird” for everyone, pist for it. This year, due to but mainly because the a number of circumstances, holidays provide an almost I just want to skip the whole constant stream of triggers holiday thing, especially (including alcohol, family, spending time with my in-laws, high expectations, in-laws. disappointment, noise, late If I bow out, I will be nights, stress, gift-giving harshly criticized. They and fruitcake). The winter don’t know anything about holiday season can drive the issues I’m dealing with, otherwise balanced people nor do I want them to know. into a rage state.

I guess I can buck up for I think it would be wisthe meals, but I have no est to be low-key this year holiday spirit whatsoever. and avoid questions and How do I hold it together the judgment of family for the next two months for members, who might want my spouse and kids? to confront your husband — Holiday Blahs over his treatment of you.

Dear Holiday It would be best for him to Blahs: One thing you complete treatment before could do differently this facing your family in a year would be to stop group setting. holding it together for your Perhaps you two could spouse and (young adult) attend a church service or kids. Perhaps they could holiday concert together, hold it together for you. You followed by coffee and a should be honest about the private gift exchange. need for rest and space this Importantly, you should year. ask your marriage counselor You have an illness for a professional recom(depression) which can be mendation. Your counselor worse during the holiday knows both of you. season. Even if you weren’t Dear Amy: The depressed, your parents’ terholiday season has never rible legacy of waging epic brought me much joy, exfights on holidays would cept when my (now young make this a tough annual

Ask Amy

dance.

Your therapist could help you to come up with a strategy to get through these next weeks.

If you think you can make it through the holiday meal, great. Drive separately, if possible. When you feel you must leave, thank the host quietly, say you’re not feeling well, and exit without fanfare.

If possible, plan something you enjoy doing, so that you can reward yourself for making it through. It might be driving to a favorite spot and listening to a podcast in your car, taking a long walk or sitting quietly with a good book.

Dear Amy: The letter from “Upset Wife” concerned me. Her husband had become a “troll” on Facebook, posting offensive comments and content. She should definitely “unfriend” him on Facebook. She should also consider unfriending him in real life!

— No Fan of Trolls Dear No Fan: “Upset Wife’s” husband seemed to be revealing a disturbing aspect of his character. And, like the saying goes, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them.”

You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@amydickinson.com.

Readers may send postal mail to Amy Dickinson, c/o Tribune Content Agency, 16650 Westgrove Drive, Suite 175, Addison, Texas, 75001. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or “like” her on Facebook.

Sign up to get Gwinnett Daily Post breaking news alerts and daily newsletters at www.gwinnettdailypost.com/newsletters.

Keep an open mind this year, but don’t let others take advantage of you. You can outsmart anyone if you listen carefully. Your ability to assess whatever situation you face and then act quickly to ensure you come out on top will be your ticket to gains and greater freedom.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Emotional manipulation is apparent when dealing with partners, youngsters or seniors. Don’t give in when you should be firm. Concentrate on your needs, not on what someone else wants you to do.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — You can make a positive change at home based on what’s best for you emotionally, financially and professionally. Look for new ways to use your knowledge and talents.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Expect someone to disagree with your plans. Emotional outbursts are best handled with patience and tolerance. Be firm, but don’t burn bridges or let your decision ruin a good relationship.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) — Rely on your experience to help you avoid a financial loss or run-in with someone. Don’t feel responsible for what others do.

Keep your distance and do your own thing.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) — A positive change in your status will brighten your day. Spending time with a loved one and planning for the future look promising. Live, love and laugh.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) — Emotions will swell if you get into a discussion regarding a joint venture. Partnerships need to be dealt with innovatively if you don’t want negativity to escalate.

GEMINI (May 21June 20) — Look for the best place to invest your time and money.

Don’t hesitate to put your needs first. Staying healthy emotionally and financially should be your goal.

CANCER (June 21July 22) — Take pride in what you do if you want to enjoy the perks that go along with being unique and innovative.

An opportunity to join forces with someone interesting looks promising.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) — Brains plus drive and enthusiasm will help you win whatever challenge comes your way. Don’t lose sight of your goal, and enjoy the process of reaching your destination.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) — Don’t believe everything you hear. Bring up issues that could prove troublesome and revamp deals that are not fair or in your best interest.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Spend wisely. If you do your research, you will find a bargain that suits your budget. A change in the way you feel about someone will prompt action.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) — Emotions will mount when dealing with partnership concerns.

Look for a unique solution to counter any bad effects resulting from discord. Choose peace and love over criticism.

perspectives

gwinnettdailypost.com

Todd Cline, Editor

todd.cline@gwinnettdailypost.com

Page 5 A • Friday, December 1, 2017

Trump’s problem is serious and it’s becoming worse WASHINGTON — How long are we going to pretend that President Trump is fully rational?

How long are we going to ignore the signs that he is dangerously out of control?

Trump’s supporters comfort themselves with the idea that he’s being crazy like a fox — that all the outrageous lies, abrupt reversals, bizarre pronouncements and vicious personal attacks are calculated to achieve some rational goal. He’s just playing to his base, perhaps, or distracting everyone from unpopular legislation cutting taxes for the rich, or trying to deceive other world leaders into thinking he might be unhinged and therefore should be accommodated.

But what evidence is there of Eugene calculation?

ConRobinson gress may indeed pass a slappedtogether tax bill, but there is no indication Trump even knows what’s in it. That would be his first and only significant legislative accomplishment. His approval rating plummeted after the inauguration and has been stuck at 40 percent or below since June, according to Gallup. He has managed to alienate our closest allies — even drawing a rare rebuke this week from British Prime Minister Theresa May — and created a vacuum in world leadership that China is happily beginning to fill.

The logical thing to do, at this point, would be to come up with a new strategy. But Trump stays his wild and erratic course, as if he simply cannot help himself.

The most alarming development is the revelation that Trump continues to entertain paranoid conspiracy theories of the kind usually found beneath tinfoil hats. According to both The Washington Post and The New York Times, Trump still clings to the ridiculous “birther” theories about where former President Barack Obama was born. The papers also reported that Trump has privately claimed the infamous “Access Hollywood” tape, in which he bragged about harassing and assaulting women, was somehow forged or doctored.

You will recall that Obama’s birth in Hawaii has been definitively proved; and also that Trump acknowledged the “Access Hollywood” tape when it surfaced last year and gave a televised address apologizing for it. “I said it, I was wrong, and I apologize,” then-candidate Trump told the nation.

It would be one thing if Trump were broadcasting this nonsense for a reason. I’d feel better even if he had a nefarious reason — to appeal to racists who cannot accept the legitimacy of the first black president, say, or to encourage his base to doubt everything they see and hear in the media and instead to trust only him. But Trump has raised these off-the-wall subjects in private conversations with aides, associates and a sitting U.S. senator — settings in which the president is likely to say what he truly believes.

It is one thing to create a fantasyland for political ends — appealing to some voting group’s prejudices or giving supporters a reason to excuse bad behavior. It is another thing altogether, however, for Trump to fall into his own rabbit hole and actually believe what he once knew to be untrue.

For decades, when he was a publicity-seeking developer and social-climbing Manhattan playboy, Trump’s method was to fabricate his own reality; he even called gossip columnists and pretended to be a publicist named “John Miller” or “John Barron” in order to sing his own praises. But he employed this shtick with a wink and a smile, knowing it was all a game.

Increasingly, he sounds and acts as if he thinks his make-believe is real.

One of the things that first drew attention to Trump as a presidential candidate was his public speaking style — free-association, basically, with no discernible filter between brain and lip.

Follow one of his speeches and you can track how his mind works. On Monday, at a White House ceremony honoring Navajo code talkers, he bizarrely slipped in his “Pocahontas” slur against Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., who wasn’t there and had nothing to do with the event. On Wednesday, at a Missouri rally touting the tax bill, he came to a line about how it would add “rocket fuel” to the economy, paused a second, and then reprised his “Rocket Man” insult of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, whom Trump went on to call a “sick puppy.”

Kim’s state-controlled media has called Trump an “old lunatic.” That the rival, nucleararmed leaders speak the same language is not comforting.

Maybe Trump is rattled by the Great Reckoning on sexual harassment and assault. Maybe he is worried about the steamrolling Robert Mueller investigation. Or maybe his mental state is just deteriorating.

Whatever the problem is, it’s serious — and it’s getting worse.

Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@washpost.com.

The joys of the holiday season This is the way it was on Thanksgiving, just days ago, at a neighbor’s house when an impromptu party blossomed into a lively get-together, confirming how festive a holiday can be in a laid-back setting and reminding us how mobile our society has become.

Mike and Jennifer Fitzgerald, who on holidays are sometimes afflicted by cenosillicaphobia (fear of an empty glass, although that might even flummox Mr. Google), were accompanied by neighbor Tootsie Adams in hosting a covered dish afternoon bash which featured more calories than an S&S Cafeteria. Nobody cared about that.

Participating were adults, children and grandchildren, one of whom is likely to be around when social security runs out — not to put a damper on such a convivial occasion. The scene was as smashing as the gregarious participants themselves.

It wasn’t loud — nobody’s nerves were compromised — but spirit-raising and fulfilling.

The backside of the Fitzgerald residence has a Garden & Gun look — expansive patio, anchored by a fireplace which is adjacent to an overflowing wood rack that allows for feeding robust flames that brings about an underscoring of love and laughter. Made one think of that long-ago Coca-Cola commercial when

are principally used in the great outdoors — fishing and hunting gear — making him the envy of all outdoorsmen.

He was in an accommodating mood, even though at the crack of dawn the next day, he would be winging his way, with his son, Michael, Loran to some no-name place in Smith Arkansas where he would be killing ducks as if they were all the people of the world unlimited. Before spring is joined together in song, warm- confirmed, there will be a ing our hearts and massaging duck supper, and I am grateful hopes for peace and goodwill. that my name will be on the There were pockets of con- guest list. versations here and there with Thanksgiving fulfillment football on TV, as one of our was reached before the sun own was doing his best to give set, and while a roll call might his team a lift and in the protest the limits of memory, cess give one to an entire city. there was Flo, who danced Detroit needs Matt Stafford to with the New York ballet for put the Lions on his shoulders years but now helps middle and take them to glory — aged upstarts and others keep glory being pride and respect their waistlines under control for a city that needs no more with her pilates instruction — emotional taxation. However, in Atlanta. Demi, recently adit was not to be, leaving us vanced from coed status, now melancholy and with tempomakes Manhattan her home, rary lamentations. but can’t wait to return to We were enjoying the her roots on Milledge Circle. handiwork of a neighbor There was Hayes from Medwho can fix anything around ford, Ore., and sister, Ellie, the house — perhaps not as who has made a contribution universally, as his predecessor, to the serendipitous success Agnew Peacock, but certainly of Georgia’s football team. more than passable. It should She tutors Bulldog football be noted that Fitz is just as players. That made us bow in versatile when he takes over a reverence, remembering her kitchen. He is a man who can late grandfather, John Henry edge a driveway to perfecTerrell, who was, perhaps, the tion and fashion shelving greatest Bulldog aficionado to accommodate things that I ever knew. Linda, a pretty

grandmother, as refreshing as wildflowers on a mountainside — content to let granddaughter Callaway occupy her time amid buzzing hospitality, Stafford’s Lions on television and mealtime extravagance.

Randall and Tyler from Charleston, Callaway’s parents, represented the rest of the youth movement as the afternoon sun segued into twilight, allowing for a longstanding tribute to such social excellence: “A good time was enjoyed by all.”

As darkness approached, after the NFL was enough, it was time to put another log on the fire and absorb what had happened. The good neighbor policy still exists, but perhaps on too small of a scale.

Nothing accents peace and harmony like a wood-burning fireplace. Food, fellowship, Napa and Bordeaux are always an enviable and hospitable foursome.

Nobody lit up a cigarette.

Profanity never breached the atmosphere, and everybody took turns holding Callaway, who knows how to high five and offer a fist bump at 18 months of age.

Now if we can just prevail upon the hosts to make this an annual affair! Selah!

Loran Smith is co-host of “The Tailgate Show” and sideline announcer for Georgia football. He is also a freelance writer and columnist.

Finding the truth behind fake news The phrase “the truth will out” has always been at home in American newsrooms, where journalists dedicate their days to making it so.

Sometimes Truth needs a little nudge, as was the case recently when an anti-media organization, absurdly named “Project Veritas,” apparently invented a story intended to impugn The Washington Post (and the media more broadly), while also helping Alabama Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore.

Briefly, the more aptly named “Pretext Veritas” and its creator, the self-regarding (bad) actor James O’Keefe, seems to have hired a woman to say that Moore impregnated her in 1992 and that she got an abortion at 15. As if you could forget, Moore has been accused by several women of molesting them when they were teens and he was in his 30s.

Jaime T. Phillips presented herself to Post reporters with her scandalous tale, apparently expecting them to concede the paper’s bias against Moore, and, voila, a scoop! O’Keefe surely would have raced to present his findings, all filmed on hidden camera, his usual modus operandi, and launched

and demonstrated that her story was a fraud.

It was — you may now cue the horn section — FAKE NEWS. Thanks to O’Keefe, the Post also showed a skeptical public just how different real journalism is from the effluvia Kathleen produced by Project Veritas.

Parker Perhaps there’s a place for him at Pravda. a fresh fundraising drive.

Moore, meanwhile, might You see? O’Keefe’s mission have hoped to discredit all has been to prove that the me- his accusers, though O’Keefe dia are biased. While this may refused to respond to questions be true to the degree that all Monday regarding his relationhuman beings carry biases, the ship to Moore. If one woman Post’s editorial board isn’t coy would lie, however, wouldn’t about its positions. That said, it be possible to suggest the the editorial and opinion pages others were lying as well? In a shouldn’t be confused with the lesser-case scenario, if the Post reportorial staff, which adheres had run with the story without to basic journalism tenets, confirming it, O’Keefe could including, “park your bias at prove that the Post was biased the door.” against Moore for publishing a Essentially, Phillips baited fake story. the Post and the Post declined Again, none of this hapto play. Or, rather, the paper pened. did what it’s supposed to do The lie was outed by the and checked out the story. This truth, while O’Keefe’s own isn’t cause for trumpets and obvious agenda was revealed. heraldry, mind you. It’s what Hating the media these days journalists do. As opposed to is good business and good what pseudo-journalists — politics among a certain conalso known as typists — claim stituency. If anyone should feel they do. With a little footwork, betrayed by O’Keefe, however, Post reporters were able to it would be all those people trace Phillips to Project Veritas who have been duped into

believing that the mainstream media are the bad guys. Let’s be very clear. The bad guys are the ones who knowingly lie.

Recall that it was Trump who popularized the phrase “fake-news” whenever he didn’t like some story written about him. Not that covering Trump requires embellishment or fakery. Originally the term was used in real news stories about fake stories being promulgated through social media. But Trump’s marketing savvy — and his appreciation for the fact that people tend to believe what they want to believe — prompted him to make “fake news” the battle cry of the conservative right.

Excuse the echo, but this bears repeating: Those who would purposely mislead or seek to confuse others are bad people. Worse, they are evil.

Conspiracy theorists will always be among us, and the credulous are in no danger of extinction. However, that a million people — or 60 million — believe something doesn’t make it true. Nor does crying “fake news” alter what is. The proof is anyone’s for the asking.

Kathleen Parker’s email address is kathleenparker@ washpost.com.

6A • Friday, December 1, 2017

World Venezuela arrests former corrupt oil bosses in purge Two former executives for Venezuelan national oil company PDVSA have been detained in an anticorruption crackdown, Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab said Thursday.

PDVSA’s former president, Nelson Martínez, and former minister Eulogio Del Pino were detained, Saab said, adding that 16 other arrest warrants are out for other officials. For those not in the country, an Interpol alert will be requested.

“Sixty-five managers of the oil industry have been detained, of whom 16 are senior heads,” Saab said via the attorney general’s office Twitter account, adding that these actions “strengthen our democracy.”

U.N. urges Libya to take ‘urgent action’ over human slavery The United Nations urged Libya to “take urgent action” to end the trade of enslaved people, a practice exposed

by CNN’s exclusive reporting that showed human slave auctions in the country.

In a written statement released on Thursday from a panel of U.N. experts including Urmila Bhoola, special rapporteur on contemporary slavery, and Felipe Gonzalez Morales, special rapporteur on the human rights of migrants, the panel said it was “extremely disturbed” by the images.

“It is now clear that slavery is an outrageous reality in Libya. The auctions are reminiscent of one of the darkest chapters in human history, when millions of Africans were uprooted, enslaved, trafficked and auctioned to the highest bidder.”

The slave trade was brought to the United Nations’ attention after undercover CNN reporters witnessed a dozen men being sold at auction outside Libya’s capital of Tripoli.

gwinnettdailypost.com

world&nation White House may replace Tillerson From Wire Reports The White House is contemplating a scenario to replace Secretary of State Rex Tillerson with CIA Director Mike Pompeo within the next few months, multiple government officials tell CNN. The vacancy at the CIA would likely be filled, according to the tentative plan, by Sen. Tom Cotton, a hawkish Arkansas Republican, the sources said.

There’s no decision yet on the timing of Tillerson’s departure, which has been expected for months.

But multiple sources close to the White House and across government said Pompeo is the leading candidate to take over at the State Department.

President Donald Trump offered, “He’s here, Rex is here,” when asked if he wants Tillerson to stay on the job by reporters at the White House Thursday after the news broke of the potential exit plan.

“As the president just said, ‘Rex is here,’” White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement, adding that the administration has no personnel announcements to make.

“Secretary Tillerson continues to lead the State Department, and the entire Cabinet is focused on

Jim Nabors of ‘Andy Griffith’ dead at 87

Jim Nabors, a singer and actor best known for his role as Gomer Pyle on “The Andy Griffith Show,” has died, according to family friend and CNN affiliate KHNL-KGMB producer Phil Arnone.

He was 87.

Nabors died in Honolulu early Thursday “after battling health issues for some time,” Arnone told KHNLKGMB. Nabors’ husband, Stan Cadwallader, was by his side, the station reports.

Nabors’ career started in the early 1960s with various The White House is contemplating a scenario to replace Secretary of State Rex Tiller- television work. His breakson with CIA Director Mike Pompeo within the next few months, multiple government out role was on “The Andy Griffith Show,” where he officials tell CNN. (Photo: Michael Reynolds-Pool/Getty Images) played dim-witted mechanic Gomer Pyle for two seasons. completing this incredibly dismissing the president ment, staff there decry His popular character was successful first year of as a “moron” have been the agency’s dysfunction the center of a spinoff series, President Trump’s admin- matched by Trump’s and senior members of istration,” she said. public statements deridthe U.S. national security “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.,” which ran for five seasons.

The New York Times ing Tillerson for “wasting establishment from both He also appeared in films reported Thursday his time” on diplomatic parties warn that he is cremorning that the plan efforts. ating a “national security such as “The Best Little to replace Tillerson has The tepid expressions emergency,” in the words Whorehouse in Texas” and “Stroker Ace.” been developed by White of support that regularly of former Secretary of As a singer, Nabors reHouse chief of staff John followed these reports State Madeleine Albright. leased 28 albums, according Kelly and is likely to be haven’t been enough to For weeks, Tillerson’s to his official website. triggered late this year or dampen speculation, as departure has been a Nabors was awarded a early next year. support for Tillerson has “when, not if” question in star on the Hollywood Walk The news fleshes out eroded across Washington Washington. It’s a secret of Fame in 1991. some detail on a posin the nearly 10 months so open that in OctoHe is survived by his sible Tillerson ouster, since his appointment. ber, Pompeo and a staff anticipated for months as Administration officials member openly discussed husband. tensions between the top have chafed at Tillerson’s when the CIA director U.S. diplomat and Trump resistance to Trump policy would move to the State Kaepernick earns have played out in unprec- positions, lawmakers have Department, a person Muhammad Ali edented public fashion. expressed alarm about his present in the room told Legacy Award Accounts of Tillerson cuts to the State DepartCNN.

nation Nancy Pelosi calls on Conyers to resign amid assault scandal

House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi on Thursday called on Rep. John Conyers to resign following allegations of sexual harassment against the Michigan Democrat.

“The allegations against Congressman Conyers, as we have learned more since Sunday, are serious, disappointing and very credible,” Pelosi said at her weekly news conference.

“It’s very sad, and the brave women who came Ex-PM Shafik forward are owed justice. I claims he has will pray for Congressman been barred from Conyers and his family and wish them well. However, Egypt by UAE Congressman Conyers A former Egyptian Prime should resign.”

Minister and presidential The California Democrat candidate claimed he was added, “No matter how being barred from returning great a legacy there’s no lito Cairo from the United cense to harass or discrimiArab Emirates in a video nate. In fact it makes it statement broadcast late even more disappointing.”

Wednesday on pan-Arab Conyers, 88, is the satellite channel Al Jazeera. longest currently serving Ahmed Shafik had member of the U.S. House recently announced he of Representatives. would return to his country from the UAE, where he Joe Barton won’t has been living, to run in seek re-election the upcoming presidential elections against current following nude President Abdel Fattah photo incident el-Sisi.

“I was surprised to find Joe Barton, the RepubI was prevented from leav- lican Texas congressman ing the United Arab Emir- who found himself in hot ates, our sister country, water after a nude photo for reasons I do not know of him surfaced online, and I cannot understand,” will not seek re-election, Shafik said. “I repeat my Barton’s office confirmed thanks for the gracious to CNN Thursday. hospitality, but I reject any In a statement, Barton intervention in my counwrote, “I am announcing try’s affairs.” today that I will not seek — From wire reports re-election in 2018. To the

people

people of the 6th District, thank you for your support and friendship.”

The statement added that while Barton has been very proud of his “public record and the many accomplishments,” it is “time to step aside and let there be a new voice.”

Barton’s message did not mention the fallout from the nude image revelation. The photo surfaced last week from an anonymous Twitter account. Sarah Dodd of Dodd Communications, who is helping Barton respond to the image, confirmed to CNN that the photo is of him.

White House may see protests after Trump’s tweets After President Donald Trump retweeted anti-Muslim videos on Wednesday, multiple State Department officials said the department communicated to the White House that there was concern that protests could take place at U.S. embassies.

Officials feared that the tweets, which appeared to depict Muslims engaged in different acts of violence,

government open while budget talks continue for a longer-term solution.

Ryan did not say how Democratic Rep. long the stopgap spendJohn Conyers ing bill would be in place, of Michigan but multiple aides expect stepped down as ranking mem- it will last through the ber of Judiciary Friday before Christmas, Committee amid Dec. 22. sexual harassIn a preview of the comment investigaing fight, Ryan also called tions. (Photo: out the opposing party in CNN) his announcement, saying, “If the Senate Democrats choose to filibuster that, they will have chosen to would spark a reprise of shut the government down, the violent protests at U.S. something that we do not embassies in the Middle want to see.”

East which are already on high security alert. Protests A few hundred erupted in September 2012 American Airlines following the publication of an anti-Muslim video on flights have no the internet. pilots this month Embassies were on American Airlines is alert throughout the day, although no incidents have scrambling to make sure been reported thus far, the you’ll get home for the State Department officials holidays after a scheduling glitch left thousands of said.

December flights without A White House official pilots. confirmed that the White The carrier said ThursHouse was alerted to those day that “only a few concerns by the State Department. The official said hundred” December flights that there is still discussion remain without a pilot.

“Out of the 200,000 in the White House about flights American will operwhether the administraate in December, only a tion should issue a stronfew hundred are currently ger statement addressing unassigned,” American concerns that the tweets said in a statement. “That might raise tensions with the Muslim world, but this number of open flights official cautioned that it is continues to decrease thanks to our pilots who not clear that any action are stepping up to the plate will be taken. and picking up trips to Hill Republicans ensure customers are taken care of.” plan two-week So far, the carrier hasn’t stopgap bill to canceled any flights.

American Airlines is avert shutdown offering pilots who pick House Speaker Paul up certain open trips 150 Ryan announced Thursday percent of their hourly pay plans to pass a short-term to help address the issue. funding bill to keep the — From wire reports

Colin Kaepernick is carrying on the legacy of Muhammed Ali, according to the Ali family and Sports Illustrated.

The quarterback has received the 2017 Sports Illustrated Muhammad Ali Legacy Award, an honor awarded annually to athletes who demonstrate “the ideals of sportsmanship, leadership and philanthropy” and who use “sports as a platform for changing the world.”

“There will never be another Ali, but few athletes have followed his example as fully as Colin Kaepernick,” said SI Executive Editor Stephen Cannella.

Disney finds lead for live-action version of ‘Mulan’

Disney has found its Mulan.

Chinese actress Liu Yifei also known as Crystal Liu, has scored the title role in the live-action version of “Mulan,” Disney confirmed to CNN. The movie, which is set to be released in 2019, is based on the 1998 animated feature film that grossed more that $300 million dollars worldwide.

Ming-Na Wen voiced Mulan in the animated version of the film. The voices of Eddie Murpy, Miguel Ferrer and B.D. Wong were also featured.

Niki Caro, who most recently directed “The Zookeeper’s Wife,” is set to helm the new “Mulan.”

A well-known figure in China, Liu has starred in films such as “The Forbidden Kingdom” with Jackie Chan and “Outcast” alongside Nicolas Cage and Hayden Christensen.

— From wire reports

With online shopping on the rise, Black Friday could be done

By Chris Isidore CNN

This could be a make-or-break holiday shopping season for some of America’s retailers.

Economic conditions are good — unemployment is the lowest it’s been in 17 years, and credit is cheap and easily available. And shoppers are expected to spend more than ever before.

The question is where they’ll do that.

important than ever,” said Robert Schulz, the chief credit analyst for the retail sector for Standard & A survey by the National Retail Poors.

Federation found that 59 percent He expects strong spending this of shoppers plan to shop online holiday season but cautions that this year, marking the first time won’t necessarily translate into that online is the most popular good news for brick-and-mortar choice for shoppers. For the first retailers. time ever, more people say they “Department stores are strugplan to shop online than in big box gling to prove they are still stores such as Walmart and Target. relevant,” he said.

“The holiday season is always A record number of store important, but this year is more closures — 6,735 — have already

Must read

been announced this year. That’s more than triple the tally for 2016, according to Fung Global Retail and Technology, a retail think tank.

And there have been 620 bankruptcies in the sector so far this year, according to BankruptcyData.com, up 31 percent from the same period last year.

Prominent names such as Toys R Us, Gymboree, Payless Shoes and RadioShack have all filed this year, and Sears Holdings, which

owns both the iconic Sears and Kmart chains, has warned there is “substantial doubt” it can remain in business.

Even if all the troubled retail brands make it to the 2018 holiday season, there’s a good chance many of their stores won’t. Store closings will rise next year to about 9,000 as retailers shift their investment to online, says Michael Dart, a partner at A.T. Kearney and author of “Retail’s Seismic Shift.

Friday, December 1, 2017 • 7A

gwinnettdailypost.com

Addiction

•From Page 1A

facility and have wonderful people to head it so there was never a question in our minds about where the money was going to go,” she told Navigate Recovery officials at the check presentation.

Abraham’s parents have decided to turn his death into a chance to raise awareness in the Gwinnett County community about the opioid addiction issue in the county.

They have made “#HonorJoe” wristbands and have decided to share their story in the hopes that it will convince people with addiction issues to seek help by getting treatment. They also want decision makers to know that more resources for treatment are needed.

Kathi Abraham said she’d like to see the “Honor Joe” sentiment turn into a movement to raise awareness of addiction issues and the need for treatment.

“Joe had a vision of the world that was way different from most of ours as far as a young person,” Kathi Abraham said. “He felt very confined in this world, and I think part of this is we feel released to speak out and get rid of that stigma and shame because I’m proud of Joe. I was never not proud of him. I was just disappointed in his choices.

“I guess his legacy, for me, is it’s OK to be who you are and you need to share who you are and get help as needed and not be afraid.”

Dave Abraham said he wants to see families, officials in the legal system and representatives of the medical profession working together to address addiction issues.

“Even if you go to a doctor, your family practitioner, and say ‘I think my kid has a problem with drugs,’ they don’t know what say,” he said. “There needs to be that education out there so they have card and can say, ‘This is Navigate Recovery. These people are experts.’”

They have some allies in effort with Gwinnett County Superior Court Judge Kathy Schrader and state Sen. Renee Unterman hosting or participating in summits to raise awareness of opioid addiction issues. Kathi Schrader, along with Lisa Manning, shared their sons stories during a press conference Unterman and Schrader held in Atlanta over the summer.

Unterman and Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle have also pledged to pursue legislative support for the fight against opioid addiction in the Georgia General Assembly during the 2018 legislative session.

“Unfortunately, it’s through all of these deaths that we’re having that the awareness is being raised,” Barge said.

“It’s sad it had to happen, but Joe has raised more awareness in six months than we have in three years.”

Lawrenceville, with officials from the Knights of Columbus and Abraham’s parents, Dave and Kathi, in attendance.

Navigate Recovery will use the money to help set up a recovery wellness center, and to fund “Honor Joe” scholarships to help recovering addicts, who have been in recovery for at least a year, attend Gwinnett Technical College, Navigate Recovery Executive Director Susan Barge said.

“I am in awe of the amount that they raised,” Barge said. “The day they held the tournament was the one of the coldest days we’ve had so far (this fall). There were 30 mph winds, and it was in about the upper 30s that morning, and they still had over 100 people show up.”

Holmes said the tournament planning committee and the council as a whole unanimously supported the idea of donating the money to Navigate Recovery. He said it was the most successful tournament ever staged by the council, which has been holding the annual tournament for at least 15 years.

“We came to find out very quickly in our small group, our meetings are only around 30 to 40 people, and people started coming forward (to say) that they’ve got similar issues in their families,” he said. “You’re like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know the guy sitting next to me, his son had a problem or his mom had a problem,’ so it was very well supported.”

Barge said it is not uncommon for people to not know someone they work with or sit next to when they are out and about have a family member who is dealing with addiction issues because the tendency has been to not talk about the issue.

“People are right next to each other and don’t realize that both of their families are struggling with addiction,” she said. “It’s still so stigmatized and people are so embarrassed.”

The idea to donate the funding to Navigate Recovery came from Kathi Abraham, Holmes’ sister. She was talking to her brother about the organization’s work after her son died, and that inspired Holmes to suggest the proceeds from this year’s tournament be donated to the group.

Kathi Abraham said she and her husband decided that donations should be made to the group in lieu of sending flower to their son’s funeral because they wanted to do something to support addiction treatment and recovery in Gwinnett.

“Gwinnett does not have enough resources for people who are in need, and you guys have created this wonderful

Big Lots opens store with new format in Snellville

By Curt Yeomans

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Big Lots recently opened the “Store of the Future” in Snellville.

The retail chain said the store, which opened Nov. 17, features its new format that was unveiled to company investors in September. As part of the grand opening celebrations, Big Lots made $2,000

Dr. Cheerie Ann Bergandi (Hall) Dr. Holmen Cherrie Ann (Hull) Bergandi age 57; passed away on 11/26/2017. Wages & Sons Gwinnett Chapel 770-2774550.

Duluth, GA

Leokardia Buffington (B.) Leokardia Buffington, age 90, of Duluth passed away November 28, 2017.

Flanigan Funeral Home, Buford, GA Jefferson, Georgia

Mr. Thomas Payne Corbett Mr. Thomas Payne Corbett, age 56, Jefferson, Georgia passed away November 18, 2017. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., Jefferson, Georgia.

Lawrenceville, GA

and spending time near the water, some of his favorite hobbies included collecting and restoring automobiles, and riding motorcycles. Clifford is survived by his wife Bonnie (Roberts) Donald, sons Clifford Henley Donald Jr. (spouse Minda), Johnny Paul Donald, Steven Wade Donald, daughter Raenell Lee (Donald) McGinness (spouse Neal), nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Cecil Lee Donald Jr., and sisters Emily Jo (Donald) Stallings King and Dorothy Louise (Donald) Stovall. Cremation services will take place and his ashes scattered at sea for his final resting place. The family is grateful for the condolences www.GeorgiaCremation.com, but declines flowers and donations.

“They have a lot of special needs that young people might month that went unfilled not necessarily need.” because he couldn’t hire According to Holland, people that have been trained GGC officially rolled out the to work with the growing elprogram this semester and bederly population in the state,” came the first four-year school Santos said. with a program fully devoted The conversation produced to Aging Services. She said in an opportunity for GGC, not their research they found such only to develop another major as Georgia State University at the school, but also give have certifications and others students a chance to train in a have associate degrees but not growing field. a fully immersed course load.

“We started putting together In getting the program an interdisciplinary program on track to be available to that would bring sociologist, students they first gauged the psychologist and criminology students’ interest. faculty together to develop a Following student interprogram help prepare young est, GGC wrote a 10 page people to work with the prospectus bullet pointing growing elderly population,” information on the program Santos said. before being invited to submit Santos said the population a full proposal. The proposal over the age of 65 years old in included curriculum, what Georgia is estimated at around faculty members would be 13 percent. Seven years ago, teaching in the program and the same population group letters of support from Georwas at 10 percent, accordgia representatives. ing to the 2010 United States In all, the process took about Census. two years to get official ap“We’re trying to satisfy and proval. Along the way, Santos meet the demands that are go- and Holland said they received ing to be created by this popu- significant support from the lation group,” Santos said.

University System of Georgia.

morning after the suspect left for a short period of time. and using a Taser on her. Police That’s when she escaped to the said the physical and sexual neighbor’s home. The woman assualt lasted for “about 24 was taken to a local hospital hours.” and treated, police said.

Police said the victim was Dinh used multiple names to left abandoned in the basement hide his identity, police said. He of the Buford home Friday was caught during a traffic stop

Clifford Henley Donald, Sr. Clifford Henley Donald, Sr. of Lawrenceville, GA passed away on November 7th, 2017 at the age of 70. Born in Atlanta, GA to parents Cecil Lee and Ellen Inez (Ergle) Donald Sr., he lived and loved his best. Along with his love for life, family

Bobby Gene Hitchcock, 82, of Lawrenceville passed away November 17, 2017. Flanigan Funeral Home Auburn, GA

Mac Inthirath Age 48, passed away on 11/28/2017. Wages & Sons Gwinnett Chapel 770-2774550 Lilburn

Jeff Klug passed away November 27, 2017. Tim Stewart Funeral Home, Lawrenceville Chapel.

Duluth, GA

Zennie Ladner Zennie Ladner, 58, of Duluth, GA died November 24, 2017. Bill Head Funeral Home Duluth Lawrenceville, GA

Thanh Nguyen Le

$15 photos are available with all Obituaries and Death Notices

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Age 35, of Lawrenceville, GA passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2017.

Wages and Sons Gwinnett Chapel. 770-277-4550 Lawrenceville, GA

Rev. Joel “J.T.” McMillian McMillian - Rev. Joel Thomas (J.T.) McMillian, age 91, a native Gwinnettian, passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2017. Funeral services will be held at 11AM on Saturday, December 2, 2017 in the Lawrenceville Chapel of Tim Stewart Funeral Home. Rev. John Cheek & Rev. A.B. McMillian will officiate. Interment will follow at Gwinnett Memorial Park. Rev.

In its first semester of existence the administration is very pleased with the progress the program has made.

“It’s been very good,” Holland said. “We’ve got students that want to be in the helping profession and come to us. Almost everyday comes into my office and says ‘I’m hearing about this new degree and want to know more about it.’”

With the growing interest on campus, the School of Liberal Arts administration is excited about the future. Currently, around 20 students have declared for the major with a projected 80 students to be in the major within the next two years.

A major selling point, Holland said, is the Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimating a 21 percent increase in jobs in the Social and Community Service Sector until 2022.

“The jobs are there, but we’re planning on connecting our students with service providers, so they’ll have an internship,” Holland said. “It will be a benefit not only for the students, but also the local community.”

Assault

•From Page 1A

Lawrenceville, GA

“Ownable and Winnable merchandise categories of Furniture, Seasonal, Soft Home, Food and Consumables.” The company also said the new format is part of an effort to rebrand itself as “a community retailer offering trustworthy value and friendly service.”

The store is located at 2059 Scenic Highway N. in Snellville and it will be open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Major

•From Page 1A

obituaries Holmen

donations to Britt elementary School and South Gwinnett High School.

“We’re excited to open our store in Snellville,” Big Lots President and CEO David Campisi said. “The Store of the Future format brings to life our new brand principles, including our mission to serve everyone like family.”

Big Lots officials said the ‘Store of the Future’ format prominently showcases

Wednesday on Buford Highway and Suwanee Dam Road before being taken to Gwinnett County Jail.

Police said additional charges could be made after finding a large amount of drugs, suspected to be marijuana, at Dinh’s home.

For more obituaries, visit www.gwinnettdailypost.com.

McMillian is preceded in death by parents: William Alvie & Mae Belle (Wade) McMillian; infant son: Charles Alva McMillian; brother & sister-in-law: J.A. & Kathryn McMillian; sisters & brothers-inlaw: Eula Mae & Thomas Vandeford, Lois & Marcus Vandeford, Willie Ruth & Carlton Edwards. Rev. J.T. McMillian is survived by his wife of 70 years: Allie Doris (Tuggle) McMillian; daughters & son-in-law: Donna & Richard Hall and Jane Osetkowski; grandchildren: Beth Hall, Christy & Brian Wages, Rich Hall, April & Cliff Duren, Erik Osetkowski; 8 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; brother & sister-in-law: Rev. John C. & Peggy McMillian. Rev. McMillian served as pastor to over 10 churches, spanning across six decades. He retired from Southern Cross, had his own upholstery business and was a member of Eastside Baptist Church.

J.T. proudly served in the Army. J.T enjoyed gardening, watching the Atlanta Hawks and watching his beloved grandchildren play sports. He is well known in the community for being a man of faith who is patient, kind and has a servant’s heart. The McMillian Family would like to invite all attending ministers to serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family will receive

6, 1941 in Duluth, GA to the late Thomas Isaac Cole and the late Lucille Casey Cole. Jackie was a member of Stark United Methodist Church. She retired from Kraft Foods and was an avid motorcycle rider, enjoyed gardening and baking.

Jackie is survived by her husband, Lewis Washington; children, Debbie VanBeek, Vicki and Bryan Samples, Donnie Haney; Snellville, GA grandchildren, Devon Paul Montgomery, Jr VanBeek, Daniel VanBeek, Paul Montgomery, Jr, age Erin Banner, Nicolas 82 of Snellville, GA passed Haney; great-grandaway November 27, 2017. children, Vance Banner, Raleigh VanBeek; sisters Tom M. Wages Snellville and brothers-in-law, Pat Chapel Ivey, Martha and FrankLawrenceville lin Williams, Faye and Catherine Allison Larry Sudderth, Becky and Rodney Garmon; several “Kip” Odum nieces and nephews.

Age 59, of LawrencevA memorial service for ille, GA passed away on Mrs. Jackie WashingNov. 28, 2017. Wages and ton will be held at 11:00 Sons Gwinnett Chapel, a.m.

Saturday, December 770-277-4550.

2, 2017 at Stark United Gainesville, GA Methodist Church with Reverend Stephen Soulen Harold Thomas officiating. The family Ohme will receive friends at the Harold Thomas Ohme, church at 10:30 a.m. and age 70, of Gainesville, lunch will be provided GA passed away Tuesday, by the church after the November 28, 2017. service. In lieu of flowers Grayson, GA donations can be made to Stark United Methodist Joan Wallace Church, 1097 Halls Bridge Joan Wallace, age 93 of Rd, Jackson, GA 30233.

Grayson, GA passed away Those who wish may sign 11/22/17. Tom M. Wages the online guest registry at Snellville Chapel. www.sherrellfh.com.

Jackson Sherrell-Westbury Funeral Home, 212 East College Jacqueline Sue “JackStreet, Jackson, is serving ie” Washington the Washington Family.

Mrs. Jacqueline Sue “Jackie” Washington, age 76, of Jackson, GA passed $15 photos are available with all away Saturday, November Obituaries and Death Notices 18, 2017 at Brightmoor CALL 770.963.9205 Hospice in Griffin. She Ext. 1161 or Ext. 1162 was born on Sunday, July 6 friends from 2PM - 4PM & 6PM - 8PM on Friday, December 1, 2017 at Tim Stewart Funeral Home - 300 Simonton Rd SW, Lawrenceville, GA 30046.

(770) 962 - 3100. Please leave online condolences at www.stewartfh.com

8A • Friday, December 1, 2017

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Georgia •From Page 1A snowball started rolling at halftime of the Auburn game, when Georgia trailed by 11 points but came back to take a dramatic 24-21 victory that qualified the Bulldogs for their first SEC championship game.

“The momentum picked up for us at halftime against Auburn that year,” said Knight, who lives in Hoschton with his wife, Peyton, and their three children.

“Jon got up and spoke to the team, and we came out in the second half and it was a dogfight as we came back.

To come back and win that game at Auburn was one of those special moments.”

“The thing I remember most about that team is we were peaking at the right time,” said Greene, who lives in Grayson with his wife, Veronica, and their three sons. “We were playing our best football at the end of the year, which is what you want to do. We beat Georgia Tech pretty badly and our confidence was sky-high.

We were confident but not cocky.”

The other thing Greene, who played three seasons in the NFL after his UGA career, remembered about the 2002 championship game was that he spent most of the end of it watching from the sidelines.

“We dominated that game from start to finish,” said Greene, who completed 17 of 29 passes for 237 yards and a touchdown and was named the game’s MVP. “I don’t even know if I played at all in the fourth quarter.”

Looking ahead to Saturday’s game, the Bulldog trio was understandably pulling for their red-and-black brothers, and Stinchcomb — who spent seven years in the NFL with New Orleans, playing

on the Saints’ Super Bowl championship team in 2010 — said he sees similarities between the 2002 squad and the 2017 team.

“Obviously there are some easy comparisons, but what’s most remarkable is that leadership and that sacrifice from some of your marquee guys, typified by the decisions made by (Nick) Chubb, (Sony) Michel, Lorenzo (Carter) and (Davin) Bellamy in the offseason to say, ‘Yeah, we’re buying back in. We’re willing to sacrifice,’” said Stinchcomb, who lives in Lawrenceville with his wife, Ali, and their two children.

“And you see that from this team and it’s what you see from a lot of great teams — players with star potential who are willing to sacrifice individual for team. That’s what’s been fun to watch.”

With so much at stake — and in a neutral venue that perhaps may favor the Bulldogs — the former Dawgs are expecting to see a titanic fight at MercedesBenz Stadium.

“We ran into a tough situation at Auburn, but I think everybody knows now that Auburn is a really, really good football team,” Greene said. “We’ve got a great challenge and a great opportunity this weekend to redeem ourselves. I know they’re licking their chops knowing they’ve got this great opportunity.”

“Obviously, there are a lot of young guys who have stepped up and played big roles this year,” Knight said.

“It’s been an impressive combination of young talent, senior leadership and senior talent. Everything a good team has, Georgia has right now.”

“I hope for them that it would be very similar to our experience,” Stinchcomb quipped.

GCPD hosting hiring event From Staff Reports

and Sunday at the Gwinnett Police Training Center The Gwinnett County Po- at 854 Winder Highway lice Department announced in Lawrenceville. Walkit is looking to fill 70 vacant ins are welcome, but the public safety positions — department recommends 50 police officer positions applicants visit www. and 20 communications gwinnettpolicejobs.com officer positions — and to pre-register and begin will hold a hiring event this required paperwork, which weekend. will speed up the process.

The police department’s Applicants for peace employment event is set for officer and communication 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday officer (which includes 911

and dispatch) positions will complete a major portion of the hiring process on the same day and should make plans to spend several hours at the Training Center.

Police officer applicants will take part in an orientation session, physical fitness assessment and panel review; communications applicants will participate in a data-entry examination and panel review.

All police officer applicants are subject to a thorough background investigation. The department’s goal is to complete the hiring process in 90 days or less, significantly faster than many metro police agencies. Most background checks are completed well before the 90-day mark and attendance at the hiring event will speed the process even more.

Man convicted of repeatedly raping teen

By Curt Yeomans

Conner sentenced Jones to serve 50 A Gwinnett County jury years in convicted a 49-year-old confineman this week of repeatedment and ly raping a teenage girl over lifetime Jimmy Lee a six-year period beginning probation,” Jones when she was 12. the DA’s Jimmy Lee Jones was office said in its statement. found guilty Wednesday of Prosecutors said the rape and child molestation abuse began one night in in the case after the jury 2009 when Jones went into deliberated for 25 minutes. the girl’s room. She initially The Gwinnett County thought it was her mother, District Attorney’s office who would periodically said in a statement that the check on her, but she then incidents began in 2009 realized it was Jones. and ended after the victim’s “The defendant began mother found out about the touching her and gradually incidents in 2015. took off her pajama pants “Judge (Melodie Snell) and underwear and engaged

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

in sexual intercourse with her,” the District Attorney’s Office said. “The victim said that she was in shock and didn’t say anything.

The next morning, she was having cereal for breakfast and remembers the defendant clearly telling her not to say anything.

“The defendant continued to have sexual intercourse with the victim for over a period of six years.”

It was during an otherwise routine doctor’s visit that the mother found out about the abuse. During that check-up, the doctor discovered the girl had contracted a sexually transmitted disease.

The mother also ended

up testing positive the same STD when she was checked during a check-up. Jones also tested positive for the disease when he was tested after his arrest, prosecutors said.

The mother asked the victim how she got the STD, and that is when the girl spoke up about the rapes. Afterward, the mother asked Jones if he heard what the girl said. The District Attorney’s Office said he initially pretended that he didn’t hear the accusation, but then turned around and denied it.

“The victim’s mother removed the defendant out of her home and called police,” prosecutors said.

Sugar Hill man convicted of sexual battery

By Curt Yeomans

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

A 63-year-old Sugar Hill man was convicted Wednesday of committing aggravated sexual battery against one of his son’s friends.

Gwinnett prosecutors said John Thomas Johnson assaulted the 24-year-old woman while she was

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asleep in a bedroom at his home in May 2016. The victim and a friend of hers, who John Thomas was also Johnson Johnson’s ex-wife, had been at the house drinking. The victim got sick from the alcohol,

and Johnson and his ex-wife took her to the bedroom so she could sleep.

The ex-wife left Johnson’s home a short time later to return to her own residence.

“A short time later, Johnson entered the bedroom and began to touch the victim, first on her back, then her buttocks, ultimately unzipping her pants and assaulting her,” prosecutors said in a

statement.

The victim was able to fight Johnson off and flee from the home, according to the District Attorney’s Office. She texted a friend who was able to come find her.

Johnson was sentenced to 26 years in confinement and will not be eligible for parole. He will then have to spend the rest of his life on probation, prosecutors said.

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sports

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SECTION B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

T A E R H LE T ATTACKS TRIPGROUND

GWINNETT’S

Buford running back Anthony Grant breaks free from Hillgrove’s Tucker Griffith (3) and scores on a 59-yard touchdown run in the Corky Kell Classic earlier this season.

(Photo: David McGregor)

Greater Atlanta Christian’s Montae Bailey (6) runs against East Hall earlier this season.

(Photo: Dale Zanine)

Buford’s multifaceted running GAC’s running back trio adds game gets even more wrinkles depth, balance to offense

By David Friedlander A running game featuring multiple go-to backs is nothing new for Buford’s football program.

In fact, it’s been a trait fans, coaches, players and opponents alike have come to expect from the Wolves for many years.

And this year’s team of running backs looks a lot like that of 2016, with FBS college-committed seniors Anthony Grant and Christian Turner carrying a good portion of the load.

But as the No. 3 Wolves (11-1) rumble into their Class AAAAA state semifinal against top-ranked and defending state champion Rome (13-0) in a rematch of last year’s title game, there are a few new wrinkles in their ground game.

“Obviously it’s a situation where we consider ourselves fortunate to be in,” first-year Buford head coach John Ford said.

“I give a lot of credit to Coach Fyron Davis, who develops and manages them and does a phenomenal job. He’s the best running backs coach in the state. … Then those kids are unselfish and they do what’s asked of them.”

To Ford’s last point, the first and foremost difference in the running game for the 2017 campaign is the promotion of a third primary foot soldier, Derrian Brown, to a much bigger role in the Buford infantry.

david.friedlander@gwinnettdailypost.com

Christian Turner breaks free past Melbourne Central Catholic’s Jeff Scott for a long touchdown run during a game earlier this season. (Photo: David McGregor)

The 5-foot-11, 174-pound junior did see action as a sophomore a year ago, running for 642 yards and nine touchdowns on 73 carries during the Wolves’ state runner-up season.

Fast forward a year and Brown has seen his workload increase and his production skyrocket to 836 yards and 11 TDs, both second on the team to Grant, on 93 carries.

It has been enough to not only join the Tennessee-committed Grant and Michigan-bound Turner in gaining multiple major college offers — among them Auburn, Florida, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Louisville, Michigan State, South Carolina, Tennessee and, most recently, Notre Dame — but also bring an added dimension to the Wolves’

ground game.

“Well, we were working all summer and I know Ant and Christian … they play more on both sides of the ball,” Brown said. “So I was coming in there, sitting back and just working behind them. When my time came, I just had to get the job done.”

Brown has definitely gotten the job done when the Wolves have needed him to, most notably in a 150-yard, four-touchdown effort in Buford’s firstround win over Paulding County.

And his production has allowed both Turner and, most notably, Grant to assume much larger roles on defense.

“I don’t really mind that too much. I just love playing,” said Grant, who is

By Taylor Denman The Greater Atlanta Christian football team saw one of the program’s most prolific passers graduate and head west to Stanford last season, so the Spartans’ offense took on a new identity.

Former quarterback Davis Mills played in three games his sophomore season and passed for more than 700 yards. In his junior and senior seasons, Mills tossed 2,821 and 2,732 yards, respectively, and was a crucial part of GAC’s run to the state finals last season.

But the Spartans had another weapon quietly lingering in the offensive backfield.

In 2016, junior running back Kyler McMichael added nearly 1,500 rushing yards to Mills’ passing total to make GAC’s

taylor.denman@gwinnettdailypost.com

offense one of the most balanced in Class AAA. In his senior season, McMichael, a Clemson commit, has racked up 1,382 on 115 carries this season.

Easing in a new quarterback, the Spartans started to think of running first this season. GAC’s offensive line is anchored by three seniors at the center and right guard and right tackle positions. Brothers Myles and Christopher Hinton hold down the left side (the brothers’ combined weight is just shy of 500 pounds). Running backs coach Garrett Granberg said the Spartans’ staff was confident in the team’s ability to move the football on the ground heading into the 2017 season.

What was perhaps a pleasant surprise was

how deep the backfield has been. GAC’s run-first philosophy has the added benefit of taking pressure off of junior quarterback and first-year starter Josh Rose, who reps a cool 1,192 yards passing with two interceptions on the season.

“We can plug in any guy at any time and production doesn’t drop,” Granberg said. “They all three have different strengths, and they bring their strengths to each part of the game.”

While McMichael leads the team in carries, senior Alex Boglin and sophomore Montae Bailey have backed him with 76 and 60 carries, respectively.

Those stats don’t account the value Boglin and See GAC, Page 2B

Montae Bailey

Alex Boglin

Kyler McMichael

See BUFORD, Page 2B

North aims to end McEachern’s run of finals trips SEMIFINAL MATCHUPS Today, 7:30 p.m.

Class AAAAAAA • Colquitt at Brookwood • McEachern at North Class AAAAA • Buford at Rome Class AAA • Peach County at GAC

coaches was in 2006 while Hockman was head coach taylor.denman@ of Campbell. Etowah took gwinnettdailypost.com the first game 21-13, then North Gwinnett head Campbell won 7-5 the folfootball coach Bill Stewart lowing year. is familiar with McEachHockman moved over ern football under Kyle to McEachern in 2008 and Hockman.

Stewart’s Etowah Eagles Stewart and Hockman won a shutout 14-0 in were opponents in the the programs’ first meetsame region from 2006-09, ing with Hockman at the while Stewart was head helm. McEachern blew coach of Etowah. The first out Etowah 49-10 the folmeeting between the two lowing year. That season

By Taylor Denman

sparked a streak of nine state playoff appearances for McEachern, which is still alive this week. North Gwinnett hosts the perennial power from Powder Springs tonight for a shot at that state title.

The coaches’ head-tohead record has been at a stalemate for eight years, but that ends tonight.

“He is an awesome coach, an awesome guy,” Stewart said. “We’ve got-

ten to be friends over the years and we’ve hung out at (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) family camp. His teams are always going to be physical. He’ll have that component on offense, and defensively too. He has a great offensive line with what he does.”

McEachern enters the game averaging 207 yards rushing per game. Junior running back Paris Brown leads the team with 1,012

yards on 171 carries, but senior Jalen Thornton has also assumed plenty of responsibility with 678 yards on 103 carries.

McEachern’s running back tandem was instrumental in putting away last week’s quarterfinal game against Parkview.

Brown and Thornton combined for 238 yards on the ground and helped

See NORTH, Page 2B

2B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

North •From Page 1B convert a 19-14 lead into a 43-28 win.

McEachern pulled off perhaps one of the most stunning comebacks of this year’s state playoffs in the second round. On the road against undefeated No. 1-ranked Lowndes, McEachern trailed 31-14 with four minutes remaining in the game before rallying for the upset.

Freshman quarterback Carlos Del Rio, who’s shared the role with senior Maik Evans in 10 games, helped navigate the offense to three unanswered touchdowns to end the game, including a 30-yard game winner to Genuine Potts — McEachern’s leading receiver with 429 yards — with less than a minute to go.

“They’ve got guys that create plays,” Stewart said. “When you play athletes as good as theirs, that’s going to happen.”

McEachern’s defense is not to be overlooked either. McEachern has conceded an average of 15 points per game this season, and stuffed a prolific Parkview running game by holding the Panthers to 56 yards rushing.

McEachern’s stout defensive unit is familiar to Stewart from his days northwest of Atlanta — so familiar it’s almost traditional.

“They were able to stop Lowndes too,” Stewart said. “They’re big up front. They’ve always played great defense there.”

Historically, a semifinal berth has boded well for North Gwinnett. The Bulldogs’ last two semifinal games in 2007 and 2013 have ended in trips to the

MCEACHERN AT NORTH MCEACHERN INDIANS (3-AAAAAAA) Coach: Kyle Hockman Record: 10-3 Last week: Beat Parkview 43-28 NORTH BULLDOGS (6-AAAAAAA) Coach: Bill Stewart Record: 12-1 Last week: Beat Marietta 51-41 When: Today, 7:30 p.m.

Last meeting: North won 52-49 in 2014 Location: North Gwinnett High School

state championship game.

The title games have been more elusive for the Bulldogs, but there’s no use in overlooking McEachern this week. Either way, the game will be North Gwinnett’s last in front of their home crowd at Tom Robinson Memorial Stadium.

“It’ll be a fun game and there will be a lot of excitement here,” Stewart said following Friday’s quarterfinal win over Marietta.

McEachern and North last met in 2014. The Bulldogs won the seasonopener 52-49 at Cantrell Stadium in Powder Springs when McEachern was ranked No. 1 in the state by multiple preseason polls. The loss didn’t bother McEachern for the remainder of the season, as the Indians clinched the No. 2 seed from Region 4-AAAAAA and posted consecutive double-digit wins in the first three rounds of the playoffs before running up against eventual state champion Colquitt County.

North Gwinnett’s players celebrate their victory over Marietta last week in Suwanee. (Photo: Will Fagan)

FANS CHOICE WINTER ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Who: Sarah-Grace Thompson School: Mountain View Sport: Swimming Class: Sophomore Highlights: Won the 100 butterfly in a school-record time and also finished first in the 100 freestyle in a meet against Parkview Coach Amy Brown’s take: “It’s not surprising that Sarah-Grace has received this honor as she has earned the admiration and respect of others in the swim community both in Gwinnett and across the state.

Sarah-Grace has raised the level of the Mountain View girls program in her first two years with the team and holds several school records. She is incredibly hardworking and disciplined, both in the water and the classroom, holding a 4.0 GPA in gifted and AP-level classes. As fierce of a competitor as she is, she is intentional in her camaraderie with and support of other swimmers, including those she most often competes against. In addition, she is committed to giving back to the community through serving on the Junior Advisory Board of Swim Across America, an organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment. Sarah-Grace is an outstanding athlete to coach and have as a teammate, and we are so excited to see what she continues to accomplish.”

Collins Hill’s Moore tabbed for SI award From Staff Reports

championship series with the Los Angeles Sparks.

Maya Moore already Moore will receive the boasts a resumé that award at SI’s Sportsperlikely makes her Gwinnett son of the Year Awards County’s most decoceremony Tuesday at rated athlete. She added the Barclay’s Center in another honor to the list Brooklyn, N.Y. The event this week. will be broadcast Dec. The Collins Hill grad 8 at 8 p.m. on the NBC and WNBA basketball star Sports Network. was selected as Sports IlIn addition to her lustrated’s Performer of the WNBA success, Moore Year, an inaugural award won Olympic gold medals that comes on the heels of in 2012 and 2016. She Moore winning her fourth also has a WNBA MVP, a WNBA title. She averaged WNBA Finals MVP, two 17.8 points, 6 rebounds and WNBA All-Star Game 2 assists as the Minnesota MVPs and a WNBA Lynx overcame a 2-1 defi- Rookie of the Year to her cit to win the best-of-five credit.

gwinnettdailypost.com

GAC hosts rematch of 2016 semis Hardy said. “Coach Campbell and his staff have had a lot of success for a lot of years. They certainly know PEACH COUNTY Greater Atlanta Christian how to prepare a team.”

TROJANS (4-AAA) football coach Tim Hardy Since losing to Warner Coach: Chad Campbell has been here before.

Robins, Peach County Record: 12-1 In six seasons as head has conceded more than Last week: Beat Westcoach of the GAC pro19 points to an opponent minster 45-15 gram, Hardy and the Sparjust once thanks to the GAC tans have fallen short of wealth of experience on SPARTANS (7-AAA) reaching the semifinals just the defensive side. The Coach: Tim Hardy Record: 12-1 one time. With playoff runs Trojans have racked up 19 Last week: that consistent, GAC was sacks this season, led by Beat Jenkins 51-14 bound to run up against senior defensive lineman When: Today, 7:30 p.m. a familiar opponent. The T.J. Adams with six. The Last meeting: GAC Spartans have played Peach County defense has won 13-7 last year against a team they met in 12 interceptions on the Location: Greater the previous year’s playoff season, led by senior safety Atlanta Christian bracket in the past three Shamarcus Redding’s four. seasons.

Redding is also one of the “I think the consistency consecutive games after team’s leading tacklers is just a reflection of the a season opening loss to with 93 total. He trails Jacprogram,” Hardy said.

Houston County. quez Jackson’s team-high “Our coaches are working Peach County’s 12 wins 110 total tackles. hard, our strength coaches this season aren’t consecu“It’s team speed, they’re are working hard, our tive but are still decisive. very athletic,” Hardy said. players are working hard, The Trojans’ lone loss is “They’re very disciplined putting a lot of time in and against Class AAAAA too. There a team that’s performing well on Friday rival Warner Robins in aggressive, but they aren’t nights.”

Week 2. over-aggressive. … Every This year, that rematch Peach County’s conyard has to be earned.” is against Peach County, sistency — evidenced Peach County’s senior which GAC edged 13-7 for by three state titles and quarterback Antonio Gila trip to the state title game a playoff berth in every bert will get another shot last year. season since 1991 — is not at GAC after last year’s Hardy acknowledged so different from GAC’s in comeback attempt was that a lot can change in a that Hardy believes Peach thwarted by a late intercepyear, but there’s not neces- County has nailed down tion. sarily a reflection on any how to effectively and Gilbert has tuned up opsignificant changes regard- efficiently prepare for its posing defenses for a total ing Peach County’s 2017 opponents week after week of 2,705 yards passing record. The Spartans and under head coach Chad this season, and he’s been Trojans were the respective Campbell. Since Campmindful about his deciNo. 1 and No. 2-ranked bell took over in 2007, sions with one interception teams in Class AAA last the Trojans have made the in 14 games. year when Peach County semifinals five times.

Gilbert has plenty of hosted the semifinal game.

“There are some similar- targets to choose from, The Trojans had won 12 ities (from 2016 to 2017),” which is perhaps a relief

By Taylor Denman taylor.denman@ gwinnettdailypost.com

PEACH COUNTY AT GAC

considering the recent run of poor injury luck for Peach County. Wide receiver Kearis Jackson and running back Chris Gibson both sat out last week’s 4515 rout of Westminster, but the Trojans have five active wide receivers with more than 100 yards receiving.

Devontae Howard leads the team with 860 yards and 12 touchdowns on the season. The Spartans also flexed depth at running back when Trevon Woolfolk racked up more than 230 yards rushing last week.

While Peach County tries to spread out GAC, the Spartans will have to keep an eye on Gilbert, who has rushed for 321 yards and scored eight times.

“The quarterback is an experienced player and does a bunch of things for them,” Hardy said. “They love to run the ball downhill. A truly diverse offense with a lot of formations.

They do a really nice job.”

It’s safe to say the steady stream of carries coming in the direction of GAC running back Kyler McMichael won’t stop this week — the senior Clemson commit has tallied 1,382 yards on 115 carries.

First-year starter Josh Rose is proving his consistency in his junior season. He’s posted 1,192 yards with two interceptions this season and completes passes at roughly a 56 percent clip.

GAC •From Page 1B Bailey add as pass blockers or decoys in the passing game.

“Last year, having Davis Mills, that was probably our first go-to,” Boglin said. “Josh is a great quarterback — I want to put that out there. I feel like we have a ton of depth at the running back position, so we’re always fresh. It adds to some confusion for the other team, not knowing who to stay locked in on.”

Granberg called Boglin a grinder. He’s tallied 635 yards on 76 carries this season. Bailey touted his teammates’ athleticism, which compliments his and McMichael’s differing skill sets.

“At the beginning of the season, I kind of thought Kyler would be getting most of the runs,” Boglin said. “I guess they started to trust me a little more.”

Bailey, he said, is a valuable “slasher.” The selfdescribed scatback has the third-most rushing yards on the team (594) and is

used in several different ways.

Bailey has three catches on the season and a couple of big plays have padded his average yardage per catch to 20 — evidence of his play-making ability in space, which has Granberg optimistic about the young running back’s potential.

“For the defense, it’s like trying to catch a hummingbird,” he said.

His boom in production is slightly surprising, given he hasn’t played a full season of football in two years. He broke his leg as an eighth-grader and then his toe last season.

“I thought I’d be one of those practice (squad) players, but these two guys have really lifted me up and told me, ‘You’re really good,’ so I just trusted them,” Bailey said.

And McMichael is the classic “home run-hitting” running back, Granberg said.

At 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, the senior strikes a balance of speed and power which has frustrated

opposing defenses this season and gives the Spartans confidence in the red zone.

He has 23 touchdowns on the season, including five three-touchdown games.

“We all come in on the same beat, and we all play fast,” he said. “We have a lot more depth than we had last year.”

McMichael transitioned from wide receiver to running back in his first season at GAC last year, a decision coaches said put him in the best position to succeed as a player. That decision seems to have paid off over the past two seasons.

McMichael is modest about his pass-catching skills. While he’s confident his speed and agility skills would receive A-plus marks in EA Sports’ Madden NFL 18, he concedes his catching skills are more of a B-minus.

But why catch when you can run? Really fast.

“Just getting the natural feel of hitting the hole, breaking tackles and not going down on the first

hit,” Granberg said. “I’d call him a true running back this year.”

For an offensive backfield that goes three players deep, particularly in Class AAA, selflessness is a must. There’s no concern about underclassman Bailey taking plays from two seniors, and Bailey has been able to reap the benefits of watching the two seasoned players in front of him. Granberg added that Bailey’s studious approach to the game of football has also rubbed off on his teammates.

The trifecta’s bond extends to off the field in the form of pickup basketball games. As GAC’s semifinal playoff game against Peach County looms, there’s a weekly tradition Bailey hopes continues with a win tonight. Typically, on Thursday before games, a group of GAC players go out for hibachi as a team.

The Spartans hope their last Thursday meal isn’t for another week, before the state title game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Buford •From Page 1B not only Buford’s leading rusher on offense, but also the team’s leading tackler with 87 combined stops and assists. “If I’m on defense or offense, I’m going to give it my all. … It’s all fun for me.

“It is what it is. If I’m playing more, I mean, there’s more for them.”

The numbers show that there have been plenty of carries and plenty of production for all three running backs.

While it may take a big game today, as well as a potential championship game should Buford win, it is not out of the realm of possibility that Grant (123960, 20 TDs), Turner (115801, 10 TDs) and Brown could give the Wolves a trio of 1,000-yard rushers for the season.

Turner credits much of that success to the fact that sharing the running back load has allowed all three backs to remain physically

Buford running back Derrian Brown scores a touchdown as Melbourne Central Catholic’s Lorenzo Hardy tries to knock him out of bounds during their game earlier this season. (Photo: David McGregor)

fresher deep into games, even with all three seeing action on defense.

“It’s still the same grind up there on the hill and do whatever it takes to help the team,” said the 5-10, 185-pound Turner, who also has eight tackles as a linebacker for the defense.

“That’s why I think we’re so successful here. We’re such

unselfish players. We don’t care who gets the ball.

“It makes us more versatile. We have more weapons on offense for us to use. It keeps us all fresh (throughout the game).”

Something else that has made the Wolves’ offense more versatile is another major wrinkle with the arrival of Ford as head

coach, as well as quarterback Aaron McLaughlin.

The 6-4, 205-pound freshman has helped open things up for the running back trio by already attempting more passes himself through 12 games (225) than the Wolves did as a team throughout 15 games (218) a year ago.

And he’s been quite efficient in those attempts, completing 130 of them for 1,713 yards and 16 TDs with only six interceptions, with all three running backs having aided in that cause by combining for 18 catches for 179 yards and a TD. And all three have also noticed what that production through the air has meant for them and the ground game.

“It’s different, but we’re such an unselfish team that even with the passing game (increased), it wasn’t hard to adjust to it,” Turner said. “It wasn’t hard giving other people the ball, being more versatile. It helps us out a lot.”

www.gwinnettdailypost.com • www.gwinnettprepsports.com

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017 • 3B

Broncos, Pack clash for fourth time in two years

By Will Hammock

will.hammock@gwinnettdailypost.com

Buford’s Aaron McLaughlin (12) looks for a receiver on the sidelines during a first-round playoff game against Paulding County in Buford. (Photo: Karl L. Moore)

Buford expecting better effort in Rome rematch

By David Friedlander

BUFORD AT ROME

david.friedlander@ gwinnettdailypost.com

BUFORD — Considering the results from the last time it played Rome, and how much of the latter team remains on the roster, it would be tempting to think Buford might want to do things differently in the return match.

Yet, the No. 3 state-ranked Wolves (11-1) don’t look at traveling to Barron Stadium for a rematch of last year’s Class AAAAA state championship game in this year’s semis tonight at 7:30 as being a matter of doing anything different.

It’s more of a matter of doing it better.

“They’re a good team.

They’re a great team. I’ll give it to them,” senior running back Christian Turner said of Rome (13-0). “But we just need to come out and do us. We need to work hard like we’ve been doing all year and bring back the intangibles we’ve been doing all year, and we should be OK. “I just know we need to play our game, just be ourselves. We need to walk in and just focus on what we need to do.”

That’s not to say the Wolves and their first-year head coach John Ford are totally going to ignore this year’s top-ranked team and the defending champion or totally dismiss how they came away with a 16-7 win in a hard-nosed, physical ball game in the first battle of the Wolves a year ago.

Quite the contrary.

“We’ve definitely watched (last year’s tape) and broken it down,” Ford said. “(Rome is) doing a few more things on defense (this year), but it’s still based around that front and what those four guys can do well. They’re

BUFORD WOLVES (8-AAAAA) Coach: John Ford Record: 11-1 Last week: Beat Stockbridge 20-17 ROME WOLVES (7-AAAAA) Coach: John Reid Record: 13-0 Last week: Beat Starr’s Mill 59-10 When: Today, 7:30 p.m.

Last meeting: Rome won 16-7 in last year’s state finals Location: Barron Stadium, Rome

doing a little more on the back end and it looks like they’ve got some more checks and things they didn’t have in last year because it’s Year 2 of that system with their (defensive coordinator). But that front is sound and elite and those (linebackers) fit where they’re supposed to fit.”

It’s actually the entire Rome front seven Buford will have to deal with, as the host Wolves feature a number of powerful hard-hitters, led by LSU-committed defensive end Jaquon Griffin (33 tackles, 9 1/2 TFLs, 5 sacks), plus Georgiacommitted Adam Anderson (57 tackles, 23 TFLs, 9 1/2 sacks) and Tennessee commit Jamarcus Chatman (27 tackles, 8 TFLs, 2 sacks) at linebacker.

And if that isn’t enough of a challenge, Rome also has a strong secondary, led by senior Trai Hodges (37 tackles, 4 1/2 TFLs, 7 INTs, 13 PBUs).

So it will be incumbent on Buford’s offense — led by the running back trio of Michigan-bound Turner, Tennessee commit Anthony Grant and junior Derrian

Brown and freshman quarterback Aaron McLaughlin — do to something it couldn’t do consistently last year, namely keep moving the chains and keep possession of the ball.

And once again, the focus will be simply executing better and outworking Rome instead of any fancy new game plan.

“I feel like it’s going to be the same challenge as last year,” said Grant, who is the Wolves’ leading rusher (123-960, 20 TDs) and tackler (87 tackles, 9 TFLs, 9 QB pressures, 3 sacks, 1 INT). “I don’t feel like we have to do anything different (scheme-wise), just go up on the hill and work hard.”

The challenge will also be similar for the Buford defense as it was a year ago, with the No. 1 priority being to contain Rome quarterback Knox Kadum, who ran roughshod over the Wolves for 112 of his game-high 125 rushing yards in the second half of last year’s game to help secure the title.

But in addition to Kadum (99-136-2, 1,849 yards, 20 TDs passing; 65-521, 8 TDs rushing), the Wolves will also have to deal with Rome’s running back tandem of Jamious Griffin (151-1,142, 27 TDs) and Jalynn Sykes (81-926, 14 TDs), who were limited in last year’s game, or in Sykes’ case, missed it completely due to injury, not to mention a powerful offensive line.

Once again, the main focus for Buford is as much internally on its effort than it is on Rome.

“They’re pretty much the exact same,” Buford linebacker Mick Reese, the team’s sack leader with 6 1/2, said of Rome. “We just have to play harder and play more physical and fly around more together as a unit.”

DAILY POST PICKS The staff makes its predictions for this week’s prep football winners

WILL HAMMOCK

CHRISTINE TROYKE

DAVID FRIEDLANDER

SCOTT SMITH

Brookwood

Brookwood

ELLA STEVENS*

Colquitt County at Brookwood

Brookwood

McEachern at North Gwinnett

North

North

North

North

North

Buford at Rome

Buford

Buford

Buford

Rome

Buford

Peach County at GAC

Peach

GAC

GAC

GAC

GAC

Last week (overall)

Brookwood

Brookwood

5-1 (169-34)

5-1 (170-33)

5-1 (164-39)

4-2 (164-39)

4-2 (153-50)

s

Make your prep football predictions at www.gwinnettprepsports.com/contests. Each week’s winner receives $100.

517644-1

COLQUITT COUNTY PACKERS (1-AAAAAAA) Coach: Rush Propst Record: 10-3 Last week: Beat Archer 12-7 BROOKWOOD BRONCOS (7-AAAAAAA) Coach: Philip Jones Record: 11-2 Last week: Beat Tift County 35-28 When: Today, 7:30 p.m.

Last meeting: Brookwood won 4225 on Sept. 15 Location: Brookwood High School

They’ve got a young team for Colquitt standards and it was so early in the year, so they were growing up and there was a learning curve there. … They’re just playing sharper, more disciplined football. We were fortunate to catch them early in the year. The defense is more comfortable in (defensive coordinator and longtime North Gwinnett assistant) Coach (Mo) Dixon’s scheme.”

The two sides also don’t lack for common opponents this season. Both have played Archer (Brookwood lost 25-17 in the opener, Colquitt won 12-7 last Friday), Norcross (Brookwood won 28-6, Colquitt won 20-17), Walton (Brookwood lost 42-35, Colquitt won 28-21) and Tift County (Brookwood won 35-28 last Friday and Colquitt lost 38-35).

Those opponents were played most at different stages of the season, so the closed comparison is probably Tift since both came later in the season.

The Blue Devils defeated Colquitt in an important region game, but fell short in the quarterfinals against Brookwood despite holding a halftime lead.

The Broncos took over in the second half with big plays, including a kickoff return TD to open the second half by Hill, who also had 11 rushes for 104 yards. Black rushed for 125 yards and two scores and DiSpigna was 12-for-19 passing for 132 yards, including two for 47 yards to Cameron Barrington. They were the beneficiaries of another big night from the offensive line, led last week by Holman (93 percent blocking grade, seven knockdown blocks) and Blake Bridges (88 percent blocking grade, four knockdown blocks).

That unit hopes to match its success from the season’s first meeting with Colquitt, led defensively by top linebacker recruit J.J. Peterson, projected to commit to Alabama by 247Sports.com.

“We feel like they’re definitely a better team (from the first game),” Holman said of Colquitt. “They’ve had a couple of losses, but as a team they’ve been a lot better. We need to be really prepared.”

Brookwood’s defense also has to be up to task against a typically powerful Colquitt offense. Until last Friday’s matchup with Archer, which features one of the state’s best defenses, few have slowed down the Packers’ balanced attack. Backs Ty Leggett and Daijon Edwards have combined for nearly 2,000 rushing yards and quarterback Steve Krajewski has thrown for 2,127.

Tift had Brookwood’s defense reeling for a half, but the Broncos stepped up from there with a pick-six and three pass breakups from Kendall Williamson, an interception in the end zone from Michael Killebrew and 19 tackles (one for a loss) and three pass breakups from Chris Cotter. D.J. Horne (10 tackles, two for losses, sack), Justin Scola (10 tackles) and Kareem Bessent (10 tackles) also were among last Friday’s standouts.

Brookwood celebrates Levengood’s milestone

By Will Hammock

County in the state semifinals.

“Dr. Levengood’s continued support of Brookwood football and our Sports Medicine South founder and entire athletic program is nothing orthopaedic surgeon Gary Levengood short of extraordinary,” Brookwood hit another milestone with the Brook- athletic and activities director Jason wood football program.

Dopson said. “His 250 consecutive The Broncos’ team physician football games since 1996 are a testaworked his 250th straight football ment of his love and dedication to our game on the Snellville high school’s school and community. sideline, a streak that dates back to “On behalf of Brookwood athletics 1996. He was honored with a cerand our entire community, I want to emony at halftime of the Tift game, a thank him for all he has done and all Class AAAAAAA quarterfinal won that he will continue to do in supportby Brookwood. ing our athletes. He is simply the best His 251st straight Brookwood game and we are very fortunate that he is will be today at home against Colquitt part of our Brookwood family.” will.hammock@gwinnettdailypost.com

*Each week features a guest picker. This week’s guest picker is Grayson grad Ella Stevens, a standout player on Duke’s women’s soccer team that plays today in the NCAA Women’s College Cup semifinals.

YOU PICK ’EM

Though their high schools are separated by 200-plus miles, the Brookwood and Colquitt County football programs are very familiar with each other.

The two teams will play for the fourth time in the past two seasons tonight in Snellville and this one has much more on the line than the previous three — the winner advances to the Class AAAAAAA state championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

“We couldn’t ask for anything more with a semifinal game and to be in front of our home crowd,” Brookwood head coach Philip Jones said. “We know the community is really excited. We know they will come out in force and we know Colquitt County is going to bring a ton of folks as well. This is exactly why you do what you do, an opportunity like this, to play in games like this.

It’s exactly where we want to be and now we just have to prepare like crazy.

We’ve talked all playoffs about horse blinders, keeping those blinders on and being present in the moment, controlling what we can control and staying focused. All we can do is focus on today and being the best person we can be today. If we can do that, be the best version of ourselves on Friday night, hopefully that will be good enough.”

The high-stakes showdown is the biggest between the two programs since 2010, when Brookwood defeated Colquitt 52-38 in the state finals at the Georgia Dome. Jones and Colquitt head coach Rush Propst scheduled a home-and-home series beginning last season with a game in Moultrie, which didn’t go well for the visitors.

The Broncos lost the regular-season meeting to Colquitt 52-14 in 2016, then they lost 66-35 in the second round of the playoffs. Brookwood returned the favor this season, defeating the Packers 42-25 on Sept. 15.

The two play on the same field this week with one side hoping for a repeat and the other after revenge.

“We expect (Colquitt) to be very excited about the opportunity to play us again,” Jones said. “We’re both playing for a spot in the state championship game and everybody’s going to be at their best. Everybody’s going to bring everything they’ve got to this game. We’re just thankful to have the opportunity and thankful we get to be home again for our ninth game.”

Eighth-ranked Brookwood, now 11-2 and on an 11-game winning streak, got the best of Colquitt, now 10-3 and ranked ninth, in their September game thanks to a power running game. Dante Black rushed for 267 yards and five touchdowns, four in the first half alone.

His three first-quarter TDs, including a 77-yarder, staked Brookwood to a 21-0 lead after a quarter.

“We came out hot and never let off, that was the key,” Brookwood senior offensive tackle Casey Holman said.

“I think that’s the key to this game, too. Come out hot and never let off.”

The Packers scrapped back into the game in the second half, but they never got closer than two scores. Brookwood fended the rally off by sticking to the running game, along with mixing in an 80-yard TD pass from Angelo DiSpigna to Matthew Hill.

Brookwood’s coaches and players have noted Colquitt’s improvements since September, something that’s clearly visible in game video.

“I think some of their young players have grown up through the course of the season,” Jones said of Colquitt. “Early in the year they were inexperienced.

COLQUITT COUNTY AT BROOKWOOD

4B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

ondeck Prep Schedule

BASKETBALL

Today

5:30 p.m. — Galloway boys at Wesleyan 6 p.m. — Collins Hill at Peachtree Ridge 6 p.m. — Duluth at Discovery 6 p.m. — Hillgrove at Mill Creek 6 p.m. — Lanier at South Forsyth 6 p.m. — Marist girls at Shiloh 6 p.m. — Norcross at Brookwood 6 p.m. — Parkview at Berkmar 6 p.m. — Providence at Towns Co. 6 p.m. — South at Newton Co. 7 p.m. — Archer at North Oconee 7 p.m. — Marist boys at GAC 7 p.m. — PACS at Hebron 7:30 p.m. — Shiloh boys at Rockdale

SWIMMING & DIVING

6:30 p.m. — Parkview and North at Mountain Park Dacula, Mill Creek and Meadowcreek at West Gwinnett

WRESTLING

4 p.m. — Central in Wolverine Classic at Woodstock 5 p.m. — Archer, Buford in Southern Slam in Eastside, S.C. 5 p.m. — Centennial, Pace at Wesleyan 5 p.m. — Dacula in King of the Mountain at Towns Co. 5 p.m. — Lanier in Panther Invitational at Jackson Co. 5 p.m. — Parkview in Border Wars in South Walton, Fla. Saturday

BASKETBALL

• Collins Hill girls in Welseyan Shootout • Shiloh boys in Adidas Classic at Milton 12:30 p.m. — Milton girls at Norcross 1 p.m. — Meadowcreek girls at Discovery 1 p.m. — Peachtree Ridge at North Atlanta 2 p.m. — East Jackson boys at Buford 3 p.m. — Lakeside boys at Collins Hill 3:30 p.m. — Wesleyan boys at Mount Paran 4 p.m. — Berkmar at Forsyth Central 4 p.m. — Collins Hill girls and GAC at Wesleyan 4 p.m. — Dacula at Cedar Shoals 4 p.m. — Lakeside-Dekalb at Central 4 p.m. — Riverwood boys at Grayson 5 p.m. — Mill Creek at Archer 5 p.m. — Providence at Brookstone 5:30 p.m. — Buford girls at Wesleyan 5:30 p.m. — East Jackson girls at Hebron 7 p.m. — South boys at Hebron

SWIMMING & DIVING

• Hebron in Jingle Bell Invitional at Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center 7:15 a.m. — Archer, South and Central at Mountain Park 7:15 a.m. — Brookwood, Norcross at Collins Hill 7:15 a.m. — Grayson, Shiloh, Berkmar and Discovery at West Gwinnett 9 a.m. — Wesleyan in Lakeside Swim Invitational 6:30 p.m. — Buford at Lanier at Collins Hill 6:30 p.m. — Collins Hill, Mountain View at West Gwinnett 6:30 p.m. — North and Parkview at Mountain Park

WRESTLING

9 a.m. — Archer, Buford in Southern Slam in Eastside, S.C. 9 a.m. — Central in Wolverine Classic at Woodstock 9 a.m. — Compound Clothing Duals at Mountain View 9 a.m. — Dacula in King of the Mountain at Towns Co. 9 a.m. — Lanier in Panther Invitational at Jackson Co. 9 a.m. — Meadowcreek in Warrior Classic at N. Atlanta 9 a.m. — Mill Creek in Walton Duals 9 a.m. — Parkview in Border Wars in South Walton, Fla. 9 a.m. — Peachtree Ridge Lion Duals

The Home Teams

TODAY NEXT UPCOMING

Off

Minnesota Saints Sun, 1 p.m.

Dec. 7, 8:25 p.m.

FOX/92.9-FM NBC/92.9-FM

Hawks

Off

at Brooklyn Brooklyn Sat, 3 p.m.

Mon, 7:30 p.m.

FSSE/92.9-FM FSSE/92.9-FM TBD

Georgia

vs. Auburn* Off Sat, 4 p.m.

CBS/750-AM Idaho Off Sat, 2 p.m.

88.5-FM

TBD

Falcons

Georgia St.

Florida Florida Orlando 7:35 p.m.

Sat, 7:05 p.m.

Sun, 2 p.m.

Gladiators FSSE = FOX Sports Southeast, FSSO = FOX Sports South; *SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

On TV

Today

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

8 p.m. — North Carolina vs Davidson ESPN2 10 p.m. — Creighton at Gonzaga ESPN2

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

8 p.m. — Pac-12 Championship, Stanford vs USC ESPN

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

7:30 p.m. — McEachern at North Gwinnett. State Semifinals.

PBS

WOMEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL 1 p.m. — Alabama at TCU FSSE Saturday

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Noon — Cincinnati at Xavier FS1 Noon — S.C. State at N.C. State FSSO 12:30 p.m. — Indiana at Michigan CBS 2 p.m. — St. Louis at Butler FS1 2 p.m. — Youngstown State at DePaul FSSO 3:30 p.m. — Harvard at Kentucky ESPN 3:30 p.m. — South Dakota at Duke ESPN2 4 p.m. — Richmond at Wake Forest FSSO 4:30 p.m. — Sacred Heart at St. John’s FS1 5 p.m. — Ohio State at Wisconsin FOX 5:30 p.m. — Kansas vs Syracuse ESPN 5:30 p.m. — Villanova at Saint Joseph’s ESPN2

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Noon — AAC Championship, Memphis vs Central Florida ABC Noon — MAC Championship, Akron vs Toledo ESPN 12:30 p.m. — Big 12 Championship, TCU vs Oklahoma FOX 4 p.m. — SEC Championship, Georgia vs Auburn CBS 7:30 p.m. — Troy at Arkansas State ESPN2 7:45 p.m. — Mountain West Championship, Fresno State at Boise State ESPN 8 p.m. — Big Ten Championship, Ohio State vs Wisconsin FOX 8:07 p.m. — ACC Championship, Miami vs Clemson ABC

NBA

3 p.m. — Atlanta at Brooklyn FSSE

SOCCER

7:25 p.m. — Premier League Chelsea FC vs Newcastle United FC NBCSP 9:55 p.m. — Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion FC vs Liverpool FC NBCSP 12:30 p.m. — Premier League Arsenal FC vs Manchester United FC NBC

gwinnettdailypost.com

Getting to Know ... Luke Sandler Atlanta Gladiators forward Luke Sandler, 24, has been a catalyst for the team after signing with the organization this offseason for his third professional season. The Chicagoan has played for four SPHL teams and three ECHL teams. Prior to that, Sandler played in the NCAA for Lake Superior State and three junior leagues (BCHL, NAHL and USHL). In total, since 2009-10, he’s played for 18 teams.

In this installment of “Getting to Know …,” Sandler talks with staff writer Christine Troyke about a variety of topics, including the greatness of deep dish pizza, his first pro goal and a talent he’d like to have, the latter sparking some chirps from other people in the room.

CT: Where in Chicago are you from?

LS: Lincoln Park.

CT: What’s your first stop when you get home, other than family?

LS: Lou Malnati’s pizza.

So good.

CT: Is Chicago-syle pizza worth fighting about? Because people will argue it.

LS: Oh, it’s the best pizza.

To me. You can’t beat it.

CT: At Portillo’s, Chicago dog or Italian beef?

LS: Ooo. Chicago dogs.

When I was younger, I always used to get the Italian beef, but now I don’t really get a chance to eat hotdogs so when I do get a chance to get a hotdog from there, oh man, load up.

CT: How old were you when you left home to play hockey?

LS: I was 14. I went to Culver Academy out in Indiana. So I wasn’t too far from home.

CT: An academy, does it ease the transition since it’s a more insulated environment?

LS: Yeah, it was actually a pretty easy transition, especially since it’s only about two hours away from home. You had a roommate, who was actually my best friend and you’re with a lot of other people.

CT: You’ve played a lot of places. What has been best so far, and not necessarily just because of the hockey?

LS: In juniors, I loved playing in British Columbia. That was a lot of fun for me. I love Canada, and playing out there was a different part of the country.

Playing pro, I’m not just saying this because I’m here, but Atlanta has been really nice. It’s a good setup here and Atlanta is a cool city. Except the traffic. That gets me mad.

CT: Is it any worse one city’s traffic vs. the other?

LS: I don’t know. It’s different. I don’t get it a ton here. But one night for a bus trip, we left the house at 9:14 p.m. and it took us an hour and 15 minutes to get to the rink. That was at night. Where was that coming from? And now my mom and the family live in L.A. That traffic is brutal, too.

CT: One of the places you played, Trail, B.C., is pretty close to where

Atlanta Gladiators Luke Sandler (26) fights for position in front of Florida’s Gus Young (2) and goalie Callum Booth on Oct. 21 at Infinite Energy Arena. (Photo: Amanda Bingham)

I grew up in Spokane, Wash.

LS: Really? That was actually my start. I loved it there because I had success and it was a great group of guys. It was my first experience (in British Columbia). It was amazing. But then I got a chance to be in Surrey, which is so close to downtown Vancouver, and (trade) deadline comes around and I got to Nanaimo to make a playoff push.

That’s on the island (of Victoria) and it’s beautiful.

I can see the water from my house. You can’t beat that. I loved it there.

CT: You’ve developed some good chemistry with Tanner Pond on your line, which I imagine is something no one takes for granted.

LS: Tanner and I have found good success since the preseason. We’re roommates, too. We get along great and we have the same mentality when we play, so it works out well.

CT: Do you have good division of labor at the house with cooking and cleaning?

Tanner Pond: No, he does all that stuff. I just sit there.

LS: I actually like cooking. We both keep the house neat. It’s very simple: You eat, you put your dishes away. I like coming home to a clean house. I don’t like to worry about dishes and this and that. The way I look at it, the minute I’m done eating, you’re right to the kitchen to clean because then you’re done with it.

CT: A lot of the offensive opportunities your line has generated are because of an aggressive forecheck. Even if you don’t necessarily get points on that shift, it’s wearing out the opposition and setting the table for the next line out.

Being hard on the forecheck, that’s a “want” more than a skill. Is this just your mentality for the game?

LS: It’s just I know it’s going to help me stick and it’s going to help the team. I know what I bring is different and I take pride in it. Playing aggressively is something I’ve done for a while now. It’s helped me get where I am and it’s

going continue to help me move up.

CT: And you can play all three forward positions.

LS: For the most part.

When you get older, you start getting assigned a certain spot. If I need to play in the middle, I can. I’ve done draws and whatnot in junior. My niche is more winger, but at the end of the day, wherever there’s an opening and a need, I’ll play there.

CT: What’s your first pick for jersey number and why?

LS: Probably 16. I loved Brett Hull back in the day.

He wore 17 and I used to, too. Then I found some luck playing juniors wearing the number 16. But I guess I’ve been with a lot of teams so I try not to really care too much about it. When I first got here, all three the numbers I picked, I got none of them. But at the end of the day I found 26, and 16 became available and I just said, “You know what? I don’t care too much.”

CT: What’s the first hockey game you remember watching?

LS: I don’t remember it, but my parents talk about me going to a ’Hawks game with them, sitting in their lap. That’s what got me into skating. They heard me say, “I want to do that.” My dad had me signed up the next day. It’s one of the coolest moments to hear them describe about how I started playing. I was 2 or 3, I think.

CT: What was your first pro game like?

LS: I got a preseason game with the (Chicago) Wolves playing against Rockford. That was pretty cool to play with and against guys you know (from home). I was nervous at first, but it was fun.

CT: First pro goal?

LS: It was a backdoor tap-in with Brampton in Wheeling. Simple. Typical me goal.

CT: What’s your preferred method for passing time on the bus trips?

LS: I like hanging out, being on my phone, I guess. I played cards like once. It depends what game they play. I don’t really like getting stuck playing cards for hours and

hours. I move around, talking to people, hang out in my bunk. It depends how long the trip is and what time of day we leave.

CT: Is the problem with cards really just sitting on one spot for that long?

LS: Probably most likely. Sometimes I feel like if you’re in the card game and you don’t want to play anymore, how do you get out? You don’t want to be that guy that messes everything up.

CT: There’s no exit strategy.

LS: Exactly.

CT: If you could pick three historical or famous people to have dinner with, who would it be?

LS: Rocket Richard, Wendell Clark and J.J. Watt.

CT: What kind of music do you listen to most often?

LS: Pretty much everything. But I’d say hip-hop.

CT: Who do you like right now?

LS: Probably Post Malone. And Cardi B. CT: Have you bingewatched anything lately?

LS: “Californication.”

I’ve seen it, but probably not in four or five years.

I’m actually almost done with it.

CT: What’s the next vacation spot you’d pick if cost wasn’t a concern?

LS: The Maldives. I’ve seen pictures and it looks beautiful. It’s something I have to do.

CT: If you could have a talent you don’t have, what would it be?

Chris Treft (director of communications and broadcasting): Silence?

Patrick Houlihan (assistant GM of hockey operations): Sitting still?

LS: Haha. That’s a good question. What do you think, Tanner?

TP: I’d probably say playing an instrument.

Chris Treft: Dancing?

LS: I’m already a good dancer. Drawing would be cool. I used to love drawing as a kid. It would be fun to be really good at that or designing stuff. That’s a tough question. What do people usually say?

CT: A lot of them say what I would say which is singing.

LS: I actually would like to be a singer, too.

CT: What’s your go-to comfort food?

LS: Deep-dish pizza.

CT: Movember’s best and worse ’staches?

LS: Trefty wants me to say him so bad for best.

But I really liked (Brady) Vail’s mustache. He came in (via trade Nov. 14) and had it right away. Personally, I think if I would have shaved (my beard), I would have had a very, very good one.

CT: Why didn’t you?

LS: I kinda forget. I got a little bit lazy. And we were winning, so I didn’t feel like shaving. I probably should have. Worse mustache? I’m not going to say Tanner.

CT: Would you say it if he wasn’t your roommate — and sitting right here?

LS: Yeah. But it’s my boy.

Gladiators get to remeasure vs. Florida

By Christine Troyke

as tight with our structure.

They don’t need a ton of For the full version of chances to score. We gave this article, go to www.gwinnett them those chances and dailypost.com DULUTH — The Atlanthey capitalized. That was ta Gladiators get another the Infinite Energy Arena. the difference in the games.” crack at league-leading “I think we’ve come a The early games were Florida this weekend. long way since the second also laden with penalties Atlanta opened the weekend of the season,” as the league mandated a season with four straight head coach Chuck Weber crackdown on slashing. In losses to the Everblades. said. “We kind of knew go- the second game, Florida Since then, the Gladiators ing in (coach Brad) Ralph had 10 power-play opporare 10-2-1-1. had had the team from the tunities and scored on two.

Before the season open- previous year so there was Those two goals were the er, the team talked about it some familiarity. difference in a 3-1 result. being a measuring stick to “They have a lot of guys Over the last 16 games, the start against Florida. They with a lot of high-league Gladiators have cut way came up short, but that was experience — DEL, NHL down on trips to the box. a month ago and Atlanta guys. A number of the “It’s a credit to our guys,” can see where it stands games we were in and you Weber said. “They’re adaptnow today and Saturday at could see we weren’t quite ing to the way the standard christine.troyke@ gwinnettdailypost.com

MORE ONLINE

is being called. It needs to continue. We need to make sure we’re eliminating unnecessary penalties and you have to win the special teams battle.”

The Everblades lead the ECHL with 31 points and are seven points ahead of second-place Greenville, which beat Florida in a shootout Thursday, in the South Division standings.

Atlanta (10-6-1-1, 22 points) is in fourth place.

Today’s 7:35 p.m. game is the first of five straight at home. The Gladiators play their third game in 48 hours with a Sunday matinee vs. Orlando.

gwinnettdailypost.com

GWINNETT GRADS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017 • 5B

SEC title battle starts up front

By Anthony Dasher The Sports Xchange

FINAL

FOURSOME Duke’s Ella Stevens, a Grayson grad, dribbles the ball during a game this season. (Photo: Reagan Lunn, Duke Athletics)

Locals vying for NCAA titles in Women’s Cup

By Will Hammock will.hammock@ gwinnettdailypost.com

The Women’s College Cup, the Final Four of women’s soccer, features a pair of East vs. West semifinals this year, as well as more Gwinnett involvement than ever.

Grayson grad Ella Stevens and Parkview grad Emma Carlson play for Duke, which faces UCLA in Friday’s 7:30 p.m. semifinal, and the South Carolina roster features Buford’s Elexa Bahr and Grayson’s Dominique Moxie. The Gamecocks open the Final Four with a 5 p.m. match Friday against Stanford.

Both games, as well as Sunday’s noon championship game, are at Florida’s Orlando City Stadium.

They will be televised nationally by ESPNU. If the semifinals go well, some old friends from Gwinnett may meet in the finals — Stevens, Carlson and Bahr are former club soccer teammates with the Gwinnett Soccer Association.

“That would be cool (to play them in Stevens and Carlson in the finals),” Bahr said. “I wish them the best in their game. I hear they’re doing well.”

Both Duke and South Carolina have done well, and both face major tests from West Coast powers this week.

Stanford sports a No. 1 national ranking and a roster full of players with U.S. Women’s Soccer Youth National Team experience.

UCLA, ranked eighth nationally, also has high-level talent.

Stevens, also a veteran of U.S. Women’s Soccer, noticed her national pool teammates from watching Stanford on TV. “I know a lot of the girls from Stanford and UCLA from national team experience,” Stevens said.

“You’re watching the game and they passed it around and they show up close (shots), and I’m like, ‘Oh, she’s there. She’s on this team, too.’”

Stanford is a major hurdle for South Carolina (19-2-1), which is in the Women’s College Cup for the first time. The Gamecocks, fifth in the nation, have outscored their NCAA Tournament foes 7-0 through four rounds, including a 2-0 win over Florida in the quarterfinals.

“Half of the (Stanford) team is probably national team players, so it is going to be a big game,” Bahr said.

The sophomore has been

IN FRONT OF THE CAMERAS A quick look at where to watch former Gwinnett standouts on TV in this week’s college football action: TODAY 8 p.m. — Stanford vs. Southern California, ESPN GAC’s Davis Mills (No. 15) is a quarterback and Duluth resident Anthony Trinh (No. 40) is a linebacker for Stanford.

North Gwinnett’s Josh Imatorbhebhe (No. 17) is a wide receiver and North Gwinnett’s Daniel Imatorbhebhe (No. 88) is a tight end for USC. SATURDAY Noon — Memphis at Central Florida, ABC Shiloh’s Cam Stewart (No. 11) is a wide receiver and Buford’s Tre Neal (No. 23) is a defensive back for Central Florida.

Noon — Akron vs. Toledo, ESPN Peachtree Ridge’s Tony Jones (No. 55) is a linebacker for Akron.

Noon — North Texas at Florida Atlantic, ESPN2 Mill Creek’s Daniel Leconte (No. 27) is a running back for Florida Atlantic.

12:30 p.m. — TCU vs. Oklahoma, Fox Norcross’ Ridwan Issahaku (No. 31) is a safety for TCU. Peachtree Ridge’s Orlando Brown (No. 78) is an offensive tackle for Oklahoma.

4 p.m. — Auburn vs. Georgia, CBS For Auburn, Lanier’s Derrick Brown (No. 5) is a defensive lineman, Duluth’s Nick Ruffin (No. 19) is a defensive back, Brookwood’s Keenan Sweeney (No. 42) is a fullback, Mill Creek’s Kaleb Kim (No. 54) is an offensive lineman and GAC’s Darius Slayton (No. 81) is a wide receiver. For UGA, Norcross’ Lorenzo Carter (No. 7) is a linebacker, Grayson’s DeAngelo Gibbs (No. 8) is a defensive back, Mountain View’s Tim Hill (No. 29) is a defensive back, Peachtree Ridge’s Robert Beal (No. 33) is a linebacker, Brookwood’s Nick Moore (No. 43) is a fullback, South Gwinnett’s Reggie Carter (No. 45) is a linebacker, North Gwinnett’s Michael D’Angola (No. 91) is a punter, Shiloh’s Kolby Wyatt (No. 91) is a defensive lineman, Grayson’s Justin Young (No. 92) is a defensive lineman and GAC’s Brooks Buce (No. 97) is a kicker.

7:30 p.m. — Troy at Arkansas State, ESPN2 Collins Hill’s Justin Wyatt (No. 20) is a safety, North Gwinnett’s Kyler Knudsen (No. 39) is a safety and Mill Creek’s Bobby Klemm (No. 68) is an offensive lineman for Troy.

Archer’s Jaypee Philbert (No. 55) is an offensive lineman for Arkansas State.

8 p.m. — Miami (Fla.) vs. Clemson, ABC Norcross’ Christopher Herndon (No. 23) is a tight end and Peachtree Ridge’s Tyler Murphy (No. 32) is a defensive back for Miami. Grayson’s Chase Brice (No. 7) is a quarterback, Brookwood’s Jack Swinney (No. 20) is a wide receiver, Grayson’s Ryan Carter (No. 31) is a defensive back and North Gwinnett’s Mitch Hyatt (No. 75) is an offensive tackle for Clemson.

8 p.m. — Ohio State vs. Wisconsin, Fox Archer’s Isaiah Pryor (No. 14) is a safety for Ohio State.

the first College Cup trip for Stevens and Carlson, also a sophomore and a reserve for a team with nine seniors.

“I’m excited because I remember when I was younger watching the national championship and the Final Four in person when it was in Atlanta (in 2011 at Kennesaw State),” Stevens said. “Duke was there and I saw the semifinal game they won. I’ve always watched (the College Cup) on TV and it’s always been a dream of mine to play in it. It kind of feels surreal. I didn’t know what I would feel in this situation.”

FOOTBALL Shelling shines against Kennesaw State Though his Samford team lost its FCS playoff game 28-17 at Kennesaw State last Saturday, Chris Shelling had a monster game.

The Central Gwinnett grad caught 12 passes for 186 yards, including a 55-yard touchdown. He finished his sophomore season with 73 catches for 907 yards and seven TDs. Lanier’s Izzy Sam had five tackles and a quarterback hurry for the Owls, who play at third-ranked Jacksonville State in the second round Saturday.

Gwinnett grads help Reinhardt to semifinals one of South Carolina’s top 11 assists heading into Second-ranked Regoal-scoring threats with the semifinals and was inhardt advanced to the eight goals, including four a second-team All-ACC NAIA semifinals with a game-winners, this season. selection.

17-10 victory over GeorgeIt’s a big step up from her “I think I’ve done bettown (Ky.) last Saturday.

2016 season — she played ter,” said Stevens, whose The Eagles (11-0) host 22 games as a freshman 21 points are third on the Southern Oregon this Satand scored in the NCAA team. “Last year obviurday in the quarterfinals. tourney — when she didn’t ously I scored a lot more, Three Brookwood grads produce as much consisbut I wasn’t very happy played pivotal roles in tently on offense as she has with how I played. I was Reinhardt’s latest victory, in 2017. inconsistent. I put the ball including a game-clinching “It’s just being more in the back of the net, but fourth-down tackle by confident in myself this watching clips back and Javier Dyer. Dyer had year,” said Bahr, the lone watching film, I saw (the seven tackles and a forced Gwinnett grad who will inconsistency). This year fumble. play in this year’s WomI’m more happy with how Fellow Brookwood en’s College Cup. (Moxie, I played even though I grads Casimir Isles (two a freshman, was hurt earhaven’t scored as much. sacks) and Nick Marquez lier and is taking a redshirt I’m making more of an also were important in the season.) “I know last year impact indirectly, which is quarterfinal win. Marquez was kind of a struggle as a what soccer’s all about.” made a 36-yard field goal freshman and with playDuke (23-2), in its in the fourth quarter to exing time. Now the coaches second College Cup in tend the lead to 17-10, and believe in me more and let three seasons, has been also averaged 40.6 yards me kind of do my thing. more dominant than South on eight punts.

Now I feel more comfortCarolina in the postseason, Seniors Xavier Carter able and believe in myself outscoring its opposition (Shiloh) and Jesse Dyer and score goals.”

15-0 in four rounds. The (Dacula) were important Stevens, also a sophoBlue Devils cruised to a contributors on the Reinmore, scored more last 4-0 victory over Baylor hardt line. year in her first college in the quarterfinals. They Gwinnett Grads is a season with 10 goals and already have set new procolumn that runs on Fridays six assists, giving her a gram records for wins (23), spotlighting achievements team-high 26 points. But wins over ranked oppoof past Gwinnett standouts. she feels she has improved nents (10), home wins (15) Coaches and parents are greatly this season, though and shutouts (17). urged to send suggestions she has just five goals. She They lost in the quarter- via email to will.hammock@ has produced a team-high finals last season, so this is gwinnettdailypost.com.

The winner of the Southeastern Conference championship game almost certainly will move on to the four-team playoff to determine the national title.

For No. 6 Georgia and No. 2 Auburn, the stakes are clear when they meet Saturday at MercedesBenz Stadium in Atlanta.

And neither team lacks familiarity.

The teams met three weeks ago, with Auburn (10-2) defeating the thenNo. 1 Bulldogs 40-17, dominating Georgia (11-1) in basically every phase.

This time, however, there is one significant difference. Instead of playing in front of a stadium packed with Auburn fans, this contest at Mercedes-Benz figures to have a much redder tinge.

“Yeah, of course they’re going to have a crowd. There’s no doubt as far as that goes,” Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said. “This being for the SEC Championship, it’s as big as it gets, no matter revenge or not and all that. We’re expecting their best.

“You’re talking about one of the more talented teams in all of college football and very talented on both sides of the football. I think they’ve got excellent staff, and their head coach has won a lot of games.”

Crowd or no crowd, if the Bulldogs want to win, they will have to execute much better than they did the last time the sides met. Auburn dominated both lines of scrimmage, which led to big days from running back Kerryon Johnson (32 carries for 167 yards) and quarterback Jarrett Stidham (214 passing

GEORGIA VS. AUBURN

What: SEC championship game When: Saturday, 4 p.m.

Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta TV: CBS

yards and three scores).

There might be another significant difference in the rematch.

Johnson, who has worked his way into at least the fringes of the Heisman Trophy discussion, sustained a shoulder injury last week in a win over then-No. 1 Alabama.

A definite answer on his status may not come until kickoff.

He has rushed for 1,276 yards in just 10 games, having missed two to a hamstring injury. In the past four games, since backfield mate Kamryn Pettway went down with a shoulder injury, Johnson has rushed for 553 yards and three of his 17 touchdowns. He also has made 13 of his 21 receptions over that span with both of his scores.

Auburn’s defense has been top-notch, too. The Tigers held Georgia’s league-leading rushing attack (265.7 yards per game) to a mere 46 yards.

Bulldogs running back Nick Chubb has 1,098 yards this season. Fellow senior Sony Michel has rushed for 903 yards and 13 touchdowns.

“When you don’t get movement up front, it’s tough. It’s tough sledding, especially in our league,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said. “I think Sony and Nick, they understood going into that game it was going to be tough. I certainly didn’t expect it to be that tough, but it’s one of the things that we’ve moved on past that.”

Bears host loaded duals tournament From Staff Reports

Paulding and Lumpkin County, both 2017 state A pair of state champiduals runner-up teams, ons from Tennessee and are entered, along with Alabama highlight an Woodland-Cartersville, a impressive field for a wres- state runner-up at the tratling tournament at Moun- ditional meet last season. tain View on Saturday.

Mountain View’s The Compound Cloth- coaches feel it’s the ing Mountain View Duals toughest set of duals the will feature a number of program has hosted, as top high school programs, well as one of the toughest including the host Bears, duals tournaments schedwho were third in the uled in Georgia for the state last season. Brook2017-18 season. The other wood, seventh in Georgia teams in the event are also last season, is the only accomplished — Hillother Gwinnett program crest, S.C. (third at state in the 12-team field. in 2017), Hillgrove (sixth But the remainder of at state), Pope (seventh the field is loaded with at state), South Forsyth top wrestlers and teams, (ninth at state) and North including defending state Hall (ninth at state). champions Bradley CenWrestling begins at tral (Tenn.) and Vestavia 9 a.m. Saturday in the Hills (Ala.). South seventh annual event.

Titans, Girls Who Ball host fundraiser games a 3 p.m. varsity game between the host school Discovery’s girls basand Meadowcreek. ketball program and Girls Girls Who Ball is Who Ball will host a full focused on empowering schedule of girls basketyoung women in kinball Saturday with special dergarten through 12th guests and celebrations grade, via basketball, to planned throughout the day. become their truest selves All proceeds of the despite cultural and soinaugural event will be cioeconomic limitations, donated to Georgia-based fundamental illiteracy Wellspring Living, an and prevailing stereotypes organization that helps that perpetuate the myth those at risk or victimized that girls are inferior. The by sexual exploitation. organization celebrates The schedule features women who have paved a ninth-grade game at the way for opportunities noon between Discovery for women in this world and Mountain View, a and strives to inspire the 1:30 p.m. junior varsity next generation, as well game between the Titans as validating a woman’s and Meadowcreek and equal place in the world.

From Staff Reports

B66B • • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017 FRIDAY, DECEMBER

1, 2017

gwinnettdailypost.com gwinnettdailypost.com

‘Super’ girls talent clashes at Wesleyan Showcase ing off a 60-51 win over Class AAAAAAA’s fourtime defending champ, Wesleyan Winter McEachern, on Tuesday.

Basketball Showcase Five of the Daily Post’s Mary Martha Turner and Saturday Yancey Gym, girls basketball Super Six Taylor Sutton each scored Peachtree Corners will be on court in the last 17 to lead the Spartans, Model vs. Sequoyah, two games of Wesleyan who also have wins over 1 p.m.

Winter Basketball Showtwo more teams (Norcross Northview vs. Flowery case on Saturday. and Milton) from GeorR Branch, 2:30 p.m.

“That says a lot,” said gia’s biggest classification.

Collins Hill vs. GAC, 4 Wesleyan head coach Jan Collins Hill (4-1) started A p.m.

S Azar, who has been putting off the season by winning Wesleyan vs. Buford, S on the event for the better the Progressive Lighting 5:30 p.m. part of a decade. “These Holiday Classic at North are going to be some really Forsyth. good games. I’m excited mits, but sophomore A.C. The Eagles’ lone loss just to be a fan for the Carter also has gotten off is to Holy Innocents’ in earlier ones.” to a hot start this season. the Hoopsgiving Classic Collins Hill’s Bria Buford (4-0) won its a week ago. They were a Harmon and Javyn Nichbracket at the inaugural Final Four team last season olson meet Greater Atlanta Craig Sager Memorial and return much of that Christian’s Robyn Benton tournament last week. Oz- lineup, including Harmon at 4 p.m. Then Wesleyan’s Wesleyan’s Amaya Register leads the team onto the floor prior to last season’s state ment, a Michigan State (Purdue) and Nicholson championship game at Georgia Tech in Atlanta. (Photo: Karl L. Moore) Amaya Register and commit, was the bracket’s (Georgia).

Buford’s Tory Ozment are MVP and the Wolves beat “That’s an interesting playing in the finale at 6 watch girls who work Corners campus.

AAAAAAA Lambert and Duluth, Grayson and Holy game, too, because it’s two p.m., which is also a clash really, really hard at their “It’s a chance to play Class AAAAAA NorthInnocents’ to earn the title. of the best guards, not just between the defending game. a talented, well-coached view already on its resume.

“This is one game we in the state, but nationally Class A and AAAAA state “And these are oppoteam to get ready for what The Wolves are have won normally like to play later in Bria and Robyn,” Azar champs. nents that can help each we both want — which is a the state title 12 times in in the season,” Azar said said. “We’ve got some “We’ve got some of other get better.” state championship,” Azar the last 16 years. Only of the annual game against great senior talent that has the best teams in the state The earlier games pit said of her team’s matchup once in the last 17 years Buford. “Gene has a bigalready committed to col— and teams from difModel against Sequoyah with Gene Durden’s Bu(2003) has Wesleyan not ger, more experienced leges but also great youth ferent classifications that at 1 p.m. and Northview ford girls. played in the finals. lineup so it’ll be interesting on all the teams. I hope we wouldn’t meet otherwise vs. Flowery Branch at 2:30 Wesleyan is 4-0 with Register and Sutton West to see that size against our draw some college coaches in the playoffs,” Azar said. p.m. at Yancey Gymnasium wins over Class AAAAA head up a senior group speed.” to watch these younger “It’s a great day to come on the school’s Peachtree Whitewater, Class laden with college comGAC is 5-0 and complayers.”

By Christine Troyke

GIRLS HOOPS

christine.troyke@ gwinnettdailypost.com

Rolling Cavaliers take down Hawks Kennedy leads Bears past North PREP ROUNDUP

From Staff Reports

points late in the third quarter, closed within The Sports Xchange 113-112 on two free ATLANTA — Clevethrows by Ersan Ilyasova, land’s defense wasn’t but James hit R a 3-pointer what it had been during with just under two most of the team’s winminutes leftA to help the S ning streak, but effecCavaliers regain control.

S tive 3-point shooting Dennis Schroeder was enough to carry the had 27 points to lead Cavaliers past the Atlanta the Hawks (4-17), and Hawks on Thursday night. Ilyasova scored 22.

The Cavaliers made a Cleveland went on an season-best 18 3-pointers 8-0 run after halftime and in 39 attempts and deoutscored the Hawks 36feated the Hawks 121-114 23 in the period to take a for their 10th consecutive 99-90 lead. The Cavaliers victory. made 7 of 13 3-point atKevin Love had 25 tempts in the quarter and points and 16 rebounds, shot 61.9 percent overall and LeBron James had 24 in the period. points and 12 assists as The victory snapped a Cleveland (15-7) held on three-game losing streak for the victory despite a by the Cavaliers to the scare from the Hawks.

Hawks, who led by 16 Atlanta, down by 12 points in the first quarter.

By Guy Curtright

LAWRENCEVILLE — Lillian Kennedy scored 18 points and Mountain View overcame a big halftime deficit to defeat North Gwinnett 56-50 Thursday night at Mountain View High School.

Kamryn Colins and Alea Spears each chipped in with 14 points as the Bears (6-1, 2-0 in Region

6-AAAAAAA play) rallied from 17 points down at the half by holding the Bulldogs to just 15 second-half points.

BOYS BASKETBALL Mountain View 76, North Gwinnett 49 LAWRENCEVILLE — Spencer Rodgers dropped in 21 points to lead Mountain View in a 76-49

NOTICE Notice is given that articles of incorporation that will incorporate Kids Shop Charity have been delivered to the Secretary of State for filing in accordance with the Georgia Non-Profit Corporation Code.

The initial registered office of the corporation is located at 2675 Mall of Georgia Blvd.

Building 200 Buford, Georgia 30519 and its initial Registered Agent at such address is Larissa Benson.

907-518718, 11/24,12/1

DIVORCES IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF GWINNETT COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA CIVIL ACTION NO: 17A 10098-3 DENGWEN TANG, Plaintiff, v.

XIAOPING SUN, Defendant.

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION By order for service by publication dated October 23, 2017, you are hereby notified that on the day of October 18, 2017, Plaintiff, Dengwen Tang, filed suit against you for DIVORCE. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and serve upon Plaintiff’s attorney, Yumei Wu, Esq. 3802 Satellite Blvd, Suite 201 Duluth, GA 30096 an answer in writing within sixty (60) days of the date of the order for publication.

This the day of October 23, 2017.

WITNESS, the Honorable Kathryn M. Schrader, Judge of this Superior Court.

This the day of October 23, 2017.

-s- Debra Peters Deputy Clerk of Superior Court 909-516365, 12/1,6,13,20

Gainesville on Thursday.

Kelly racked up 20 points and 14 rebounds, while Adam Flagler added another 15 points for the 5-0 Wildcats.

To report scores, call 770-339-5850. Scores must be reported before Duluth 61, Gainesville 43 10:15 p.m. every day with GAINESVILLE — the exception of Tuesday A double-double from and Friday. Deadline for Christian Kelly sparked Tuesday is 10:30 p.m. and Duluth in a 61-43 win over Friday is 10:45 p.m.

Wofford to coach in All-American Bowl From Staff Reports LAWRENCEVILLE — With three Gwinnett players already selected for the 2018 U.S. Army All-American Bowl, a county coach was announced as part of the team’s coaching staff Thursday.

Central Gwinnett’s Todd Wofford will be one of two Georgia coaches, joining Cartersville’s Joey King, on the East squad’s staff for the game, which is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Jan. 6 at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

Wofford just completed his eighth season as Central’s head coach, with

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

CORPORATIONS

victory over North Gwinnett on Thursday.

Also in double figures for the Bears (4-1, 2-0) were Miles Long with 15, Naheim Allenye with 12 and Kevin Kayongo with 10.

JUVENILE COURT

JUVENILE COURT

JUVENILE COURT

IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF HALL COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA IN THE INTEREST OF: R.L. B. CASE NUMBER: 1701318 YOB: 2015 AGE: 2 YEARS OLD SEX: FEMALE A CHILD SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF THE FILING OF A PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO: EILISHA BACON, RESPONDENT AND ALL INTERESTED PARTIES IT APPEARING that a Petition for Termination of Parental Rights seeking an order terminating your parental rights has been presented to this Court and filing of the petition is found to be in the best interest of the child and the public, let the same be filed. A copy of the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights can be obtained at the clerk’s office of the Juvenile Court of Hall County, located at 225 Green Street SE, Gainesville, Georgia 30501.

Under the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 15-11-284, the effect of an order terminating the parental rights of a parent under this article is without limit as to duration and terminates all the rights with respect to the child and all rights of the child to the parent arising from the parental relationship. The parent is not thereafter entitled to notice of the proceedings for the adoption of the child by another, nor does the parent have any right to object to the adoption or otherwise to participate in the proceedings.

NOTICE OF EFFECT OF TERMINATION JUDGMENT: Georgia law provides that you can permanently lose your rights as a parent. A petition to terminate parental rights has been filed requesting the court to terminate your parental rights to your child. A court hearing of your case has been scheduled for the 19th day of January, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. at the Juvenile Court of Hall County. If you fail to appear, the court can terminate your rights in your absence. If the court at the trial finds that the facts set out in the petition to t

terminate parental rights are true and that termination of your rights will serve the best interests of your child, the court can enter a judgment ending your rights to your child. If the judgment terminates your parental rights, you will no longer have any rights to your child. This means that you will not have the right to visit, contact, or have custody of your child or make any decisions affecting your child or your child’s earnings or property. Your child will be legally freed to be adopted by someone else. Even if your parental rights are terminated: (1) You will still be responsible for providing financial support (child support payments) for your child’s care unless and until your child is adopted; and (2) Your child can still inherit from you unless and until your child is adopted.

This is a very serious matter.

You should contact an attorney immediately so that you can be prepared for the court hearing. You have the right to hire an attorney and to have him or her represent you. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, the court will appoint an attorney if the court finds that you are an indigent person. Whether or not you decide to hire an attorney, you have the right to attend the hearing of your case, to call witnesses on your behalf, and to question those witnesses brought against you.

If you have any questions concerning this notice, you may call the telephone number of the clerk’s office which is (770) 531-6927 or visit the Juvenile Court Clerk’s Office on the 3rd floor of the Hall County Courthouse located at 225 Green Street SE Gainesville, GA 30501. You may apply for an attorney by calling the Indigent Defense Office at (770) 531-7086 or visiting their office on the 2nd floor of the Hall County Courthouse.

Pursuant to the provisions of O.C.G.A. §§ 15-11-281 and 282, a copy of the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and this Summons and Order shall be served upon you, the Respondent, at least thirty (30) days before t

the time set for a hearing.

The Court will conduct a pretrial hearing on the 11th day of December, 2017, at 8:30 a.m. at the Juvenile Court of Hall County located on the 3rd floor of the Hall County Courthouse in Gainesville, Georgia, to discuss any possible stipulations, documentary evidence, number of witnesses and other information to promote Judicial economy and the presentation of this matter before the Court.

NOW, therefore, you, the parent of the above-named child, are hereby commanded to be and appear on the 19th day of January, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. before the Juvenile Court of Hall County located on the 3rd floor of the Hall County Courthouse in Gainesville, Georgia to answer the allegations of the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and to show cause as to why an order terminating your parental rights should not be granted. This hearing is to consider the termination of your parental rights to the above-named child.

Under O.C.G.A. § 15-11262, you, as Respondent, are entitled to representation by legal counsel. In the event that you are unable to hire an attorney to represent you, and if you are indigent, as that term is defined in O.C.G.A. § 15-11-2(38), then you must IMMEDIATELY contact the Office for Indigent Defense at (770) 531-7086 and the Clerk of the Juvenile Court in Hall County at (770) 531-6927 and request the appointment of counsel to represent you at these proceedings. The Indigent Defense Office is located on the 2nd floor of the Hall County Courthouse. The Juvenile Court Clerk’s Office is located on the 3rd floor of the Hall County Courthouse.

SO ORDERED, this 6th day of November, 2017.

Honorable Lindsay H. Burton Judge, Juvenile Court Hall County, Georgia Northeastern Judicial Circuit 9 1 3 - 5 2 0 2 6 3 , 11/24,12/1,8,15

ELECTION NOTICES

PUBLIC HEARINGS

NOTICE OF CERTIFICATION Notice of certification of the December 5, 2017 Peachtree Corners Runoff, will take place on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 beginning at 9:30AM, in the Elections Room of Peachtree Corners City Hall located at 147 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners, Georgia.

This 27th day of November 2017.

Kymberly Chereck Municipal Elections Superintendent AVISO DE CERTIFICACION Aviso de certificación de la elecciónes de desempate de Peachtree Corners el 5 de noviembre del 2017, se llevarán a cabo el lunes, 14 de noviembre del 2017 comenzando a las 9:30AM, en el salón de elecciones del Municipado de Peachtree Corners localizado en el 147 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners, Georgia.

Este dia, 27 de noviembre del 2017.

Kymberly Chereck Superintendente de Elecciones Municipales GDP – 10/29/17 Sitio de Web – 10/27/17 917-521427, 12/1

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DACULA The public is hereby notified that the City of Dacula Christmas Party will take place on Wednesday, December 13 at 6:00 PM at Fernando’s Mexican Restaurant, 465 Dacula Road, Suite K, Dacula, Ga. 30019. A quorum of City Council members will be present at said event.

928-521719, 12/1

PUBLIC HEARINGS PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DACULA The public is hereby notified that the Gwinnett Municipal Association Christmas Party will take place on Tuesday, December 12 at 6:00 PM at 550 Trackside located at 550 Clayton Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. A quorum of City Council members will be present at said event.

928-521718, 12/1

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given to the public that the The City of Grayson proposes to amend the Code of the City of Grayson by adopting an updated Soil Erosion, Sedimentation and Pollution Control Ordinance Chapter 26 – Environment, Article III. The Mayor and Council will hold a Public Hearing to receive public comment on Monday December 18, 2017 at 7:00PM, in the Grayson Senior Center located at 475 Grayson Parkway, Grayson, GA. The City may adopt this amendment at their December 18, 2017 meeting after the conclusion of the public hearing.

The proposed language is on file and available for review. The public is invited and encouraged to attend this meeting.

928-521856, 12/1 IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OCGA 40-11-2 NOBODY’S AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR, WILL HOLD AN AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING VEHICLE(S): 2003 HONDA ODYSSEY 5FNRL18043B081065 WILL BE AUCTIONED ON DECEMBER 20, 2017 AT 10 AM. AT 273 GRAYSON HWY LAWRENCEVILLE, GA 30046 *7808 928-521911, 12/1,8 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE / AUCTION A Public Sale the following car: 2004 LAND ROVER–RANGE ROVER SALTL19494A7864411 Will be conducted on December 1, 2017 AT 2:00pm Location: 727 W

a record of 39-46.

He will be helping coach an East BLACK T team that features Black Knights quarterback Jarren Williams, as well as fellow Gwinnett standouts like Greater Atlanta Christian running back Kyler McMichael and South Gwinnett defensive end Justin Mascoll.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

PEACHTREE ST NORCROSS, GEORGIA 30071 Lien holder reserves the right to refuse the final bid.

The vehicle will be sold to the highest bidder NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE / AUCTION Pursant to OCGA Section 40-I 1 -6, notice is hereby given that the following motor vehicle will be sold to the highest and best bidder AT 727 W PEACHTREE ST NORCROSS, GEORGIA 30071 Date: 11/13/2017 Time: 2:00pm 2004 LAND ROVER– RANGE ROVER SALTL19494A7864411 928-518932, 11/24,12/1

unsuccessful. The trailer is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed.

This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law.

RE: 2009 VIP Scooter VIN LHJLC13F29B001467 LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR BEIGE TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above scooter was initially removed from Patterson Road and Patterson Circle in Lawrenceville,GA. It is presently located at 770-3811140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The scooter is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed.

This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law.

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF DACULA The public is hereby notified that the Frontier Affair: A Prelude to Gwinnett’s Bicentennial will take place on Friday, December 15 at 6:00 PM at Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. A quorum of City Council members will be present at said event.

928-521720, 12/1 STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE INC. 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE NORCROSS, GA 30071 PHONE: 770-381-1140 FAX: 770-935-9651 ABANDONED VEHICLES: RE: 1974 Sunbeam Convertible VIN SAL375393 LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR GREEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above vehicle was initially removed from 1837 Donna Court in Lawrenceville, GA. It is presently located at 770-381-1140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The vehicle is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed. This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law. RE: Wabash Trailer VIN NO VIN LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR WHITE TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above trailer was initially removed from Nordic Logistics & Warehousing located at 4300 Pleasantdale Road in Atlanta, GA. It is presently located at 770-3811140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been u

RE: 2014 TaoTao Scooter VIN L9NTEACB0E1168144 LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR GREEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above scooter was initially removed from Clifton Glen Apartment Homes located at 600 Hambrick Road in Stone Mountain, GA. It is presently located at 770-3811140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The scooter is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed.

This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law. 928-521547, 12/1,8,15 STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE INC. 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE NORCROSS, GA 30071 PHONE: 770-381-1140 FAX: 770-935-9651 ABANDONED VEHICLES: RE: Ford F-150 VIN NO VIN LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR RED TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above vehicle was initially removed from 4600 Buford Highway, Norcross, GA. It is presently located at 770381-1140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The vehicle is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed. This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law. RE: 2011 Kawasaki JL250P Sport Motorcycle VIN LJ5PBA161B1040046 LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR BLACK TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above motorcycle was initially removed from Ten Oaks Apartments, 405 Philip Boulevard, Lawrencville, GA. It is presently located at 770381-1140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The motorcycle is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 4011-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed. This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law.

RE: Home-Made Trailer VIN NO VIN LICENSE PLATE NO. NO TAG COLOR BLACK TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The above trailer was initially removed from Ashley Square located at 4800 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburn, GA. It is presently located at 770-381-1140 at 2775 Simpson Circle in Norcross, Georgia, in possession of Statewide Wrecker Service, Inc. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The trailer is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed. This notice is given pursuant to Georgia Law. 9 2 8 - 5 1 9 5 7 2 , 11/17,24,12/1

PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OCGA 40-11-2 OTS INSTALLATIONS, INC., WILL HOLD AN AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING VEHICLE(S): 2001 FORD ECONOLINE E150 IFTRE142XIHB51778 WILL BE AUCTIONED ON DECEMBER 13,2017 AT 10 AM. AT 75 ARCADO RD, SUITE D LILBURN, GA 30047 *7795 929-520666, 11/24,12/1 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: The following self-storage Cube contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash

by CubeSmart #6929, 5985 South Norcross Tucker Road, Norcross, GA 30093, to satisfy a lien 12/14/2017 at approx. 2:00 PM. at www. storagetreasures.com.

Name Unit # Juan Gabriel A045 Amy McNish A053 Unique M McWilliams B053 Deyvi Rosique-Osegueda B082 Briana Trimble B

1201_GDP_FRI_CLASS_Classifieds 11/30/2017 4:25 PM Page B7

gwinnettdailypost.com PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS

B095 Kira E Blagg B099 Darwin V Hobbs Jr. C064 Service Universal Associate,Inc C074 Wayne D Johnson C074 Judy Gay C088 Claudia Udah C095 David Mesa D002 Enri Guillermo De Leon D014 Luis Sosa D022 Juan Carlos Lopez D035 Kristan N Smith E002 Rosemary Svestka E059 Faisal Fahad Alsarawani E073 929-520359, 11/24,12/1

ABANDONED DECLARED AND FORECLOSED VEHICLES PURSUANT TO OCGA 40-11-5.

ESTOS VEHICULOS SERAN VENDIDOS AL PUBLICO POR DINERO EN EFECTIVO EN STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE LOCALIZADO EN 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE, GEORGIA NORCROSS, A LAS 10:00 A.M. EN 16 DECIEMBRE 2017 . LOS SIGUIENTES VEHICULOS AN SIDO DECLARADOS ABANDONADOS Y CERRADOS DE ACUERDO A OCGA 40-11-5 NUEVA LOCALIZACION 770-381-1140 www.swsatlanta.com Cargo Craft Trailer 4D6FR12242A012209 Dual Axle Trailer NO VIN Ford Focus NO VIN 1994 Kawasaki KX250 Dirtbike JKAKXMK13RA002666 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe 1GNFK13047R335247 2001 GMC Yukon XL 3GKFK16T51G165443 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 3VWDP7AJ6DM252655 1999 Ford E-150 1FTRE1420XHA01249 2004 Ford Explorer 1FMDU63K84UC06215 2007 Hyundai Tiburon KMHHN65F17U247692 1999 Mercury Mountaineer 4M2ZU55PXXUJ02563 2002 Mitsubishi Galant 4A3AA46G22E022677 2006 Mercedes-Benz C230 WDBRF52H06E020636 2007 Hyundai Accent KMHCN46C67U095623 2001 Dodge Durango 1B4HS28N31F525901 1996 Mercury Sable 1MELM50U3TA669409 1998 Volvo S70 YV1LS5673W1550332 2002 Boat Trailer 40ZBP15112P091270 2008 HomeMade 12ft Boat NO HIN 1997 Chevrolet C1500 1GCEC14W7VZ225701 1997 Honda Civic 1HGEJ8244VL074692 1997 Honda Accord 1HGCD556XVA090644 1999 Subaru Impreza JF1GC4354XH503052 1999 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1GCEK19T7XZ195717 2004 Volkswagen Passat WVWVD63B04E012409 2001 Chrysler Town and Country 2C4GP44351R372687 2004 Chevrolet Impala 2G1WF52E449274756 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe KM8SB12B74U619423 2003 Chevrolet Impala 2G1WF52E939345206 1998 Ford Ranger 1FTYR10C9WUA44217 1996 Ford Ranger 1FTCR10U6TTA12829 2007 Mazda Mazda6 1YVHP80C175M62341 1996 Ford E-250 1FTFE24H4THA87222 2002 Buick Rendezvous 3G5DA03E62S525072 1999 Jeep Cherokee 1J4FT28SXXL621378 1990 Xtreme Scooter 2012XB700LI100032 2010 Ford Fusion 3FAHP0HAXAR427043 1999 BMW 323i WBAAM3334XFP52630 1994 Toyota Corolla 1NXAE09B5RZ207544 1997 Ford Expedition 1FMEU1769VLB44111 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix 1G2WK52JX1F131155 2003 Acura 3.2 TL 19UUA56633A015258 1993 Ford Expedition 1FMRU17L1XLB09900 2001 Toyota 4Runner JT3GN86R410191836 2005 Ford Explorer 1FMZU73KX5UB57421 1996 Jeep Cherokee 1J4FT68S5TL272955 2006 Volkswagen Touareg WVGZG77L56D038655 2005 Scion xB JTLKT324450209707 929-521551, 12/1,8,15

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: The following self-storage Cube contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by CubeSmart 3766 Holcomb Bridge Rd Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 to satisfy a lien on December 14, 2017 at approx. 2:00 pm at www. storagetreasures.com] Name Unit # General Description of Property Gregory Abdul-Aleem 496 Household Items Walter Lynch 377 Household Items Tajae Jeter 390 Household Items Lanyla Gayton 129 Household Items Adrienna Anderson 379 Household Items Nashel Latson 098 Household Items Tanika Green 288 Household Items Lidia McKinney 150 Household Items 929-520631, 11/24,12/1 NOTICE Scotty’s Thrifty Storage– Duluth shall conduct a public sale on the following spaces at 3280 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Duluth, GA 30096.

Thursday December 14, 2017 at 4:00p.m.

Unit A39 Hilary Litzinger Unit is said to contain tool chests, ATVs, motor bike, clothes, TVs, cabinets, Misc Bags and chair frame.

Unit C43LL Phyllis Beck Unit is said to contain trophies, kerosene heater, misc boxes, tubs and bags, Floor Lamp, chairs and toys.

Unit D46 Norman Augustus Unit is said to contain washer and dryer, furniture, ladder, tool box, sewing machine, cooler, clothes, misc boxes, tubs and bags.

929-521554, 12/1,8 MCCULLOUGH TOWING AUCTION LIST 785 BROGDON RD. SUWANEE, GA 30024 770-263-8483 Saturday, December 2nd 2017@ 1:00pm 2005 Audi A4 WAULC68E25A124308 Cadillac deVille 2005 1G6KD54Y25U155128 2007 Chevrolet Impala 2G1WT58K679363481 2005 Chevrolet Impala 2G1WH55K559108663 2005 Chevrolet Equinox 2CNDL13FX56159746 2005 Chrysler Town & Country 2C4GP44R25R298915 2006 Dodge Stratus 1B3EL46X36N170634 2006 Dodge Charger 2B3KA43R16H414868 2006 Dodge Caravan 1D4GP24RX6B618117 2002 Ford Explorer 1FMZU63E32UA52672 2001 Ford Expedition 1FMRU16WX1LB13415 2002 Ford Expedition 1FMRU17LX2LA23896 2002 Ford Explorer 1FMZU62EX2UA28418 2004 Honda Civic 1HGEM22144L060462 2001 Honda Civic 1HGEM22521L070972 2001 Honda Civic 1HGEM22551L005565 2004 Kia Sorento KNDJD733345186777 2002 Lexus IS 300 JTHBD192420046567 2005 Mazda Mazda3 JM1BK323651294579 1991 Mercedes Benz 560SEL WDBCA39E7MA584373 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse 4A3AK34T26E009506 2005 Nissan Altima 1N4AL11D45C219445 2003 Toyota Prius JT2BK18U330081296 1999 Toyota Corolla 1NXBR12E9XZ231880 2001 Toyota Avalon 4T1BF28B01U133100 2009 Toyota Camry 4T1BE46K89U814506 2000 Toyota Camry 4T1BG28K2YU996648 9 2 9 - 5 1 9 7 7 4 , 11/17,24,12/1 MCCULLOUGH TOWING 4431 BUFORD HWY NORCROSS, GA 30071 770-263-8483 11/20/17 NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE The following vehicle, advertised to O.C.G.A.Code Section 40-11-12, is being stored at 4431 Buford Hwy, Norcross, Ga. 30071. 770263-8483.

This vehicle is being deemed abandoned and will be auctioned or disposed of if not claimed by the legal owner and or lien holder.

The Vehicle was impounded from 1938 Valley View Rd Snellville Ga. On 11/11/17, at the request of the property owner or manager.

1977 Jeep CJ5 VIN# JBF93EH006351 TAG# 412RE GA 929-520634, 11/24,12/1 NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OCGA 40-11-2 BLUE RIDGE MB, WILL HOLD AN AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING VEHICLE(S): 2003 MERCEDES BENZ S500 WDBNG75J33A379360 WILL BE AUCTIONED ON DECEMBER 20, 2017 AT 10 AM AT 4405 PAXTON LN SW LILBURN, GA 30047 *7802 929-521558, 12/1,8 NOTICE THESE VEHICLES WILL BE SOLD FOR PUBLIC OUTCRY FOR CASH AT STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE LOCATED AT 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE, NORCROSS, GEORGIA AT 10:00 A.M. ON DECEMBER 16, 2017. THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE D

STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE INC. 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE NORCROSS, GA 30071 PHONE: 770-381-1140 FAX: 770-935-9651 THESE VEHICLES WILL BE SOLD FOR PUBLIC OUTCRY FOR CASH AT STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE LOCATED AT 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE, NORCROSS, GEORGIA AT 10:00 A.M. ON DECEMBER 02, 2017. THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE ABANDONED DECLARED AND FORECLOSED VEHICLES PURSUANT TO OCGA 40-11-5.

ESTOS VEHICULOS SERAN VENDIDOS AL PUBLICO POR DINERO EN EFECTIVO EN STATEWIDE WRECKER SERVICE LOCALIZADO EN 2775 SIMPSON CIRCLE, GEORGIA NORCROSS, A LAS 10:00 A.M. EN 02 DECIEMBRE 2017 . LOS SIGUIENTES VEHICULOS AN SIDO DECLARADOS ABANDONADOS Y CERRADOS DE ACUERDO A OCGA 40-11-5 NUEVA LOCALIZACION www.

770-381-1140 swsatlanta.com Motorcycle Frame NO VIN 2008 Sunl Moped L8YTCKPF68Y012128 2007 Mercedes-Benz C230 WDBRF52H17F899267 2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport SALSF25456A974714 1985 Sea Ray Boat (No Trailer) SERV4816F585 2008 Cadillac SRX 1GYEE637180207036 2010 Chevrolet Impala 2G1WA5EK0A1103108 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 3VWPF71K36M676645 1997 Nissan Maxima JN1CA21D7VM507178 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 WDBUF65J93A172870 2004 Mazda Mazda6 1YVFP80C845N32002 2000 Honda Accord 1HGCG2251YA019211 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2GCEC19V621391311 2001 Volkswagen Passat WVWAC63B61P023688 2000 Jaguar S-Type SAJDA01D6YGL65142 2008 Ford Edge 2FMDK36C68BB49534 2017 TaoTao Scooter L9NTEACB2H1050973 2005 Chevrolet Equinox 2CNDL73F156095793 2001 Cadillac Seville 1G6KY549X1U185890 2003 BMW 525i WBADT43483G033433 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx

PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS 1G1ZT64824F169367 1996 Chevrolet C2500 1GCGC24RXTZ202662 2005 Toyota Corolla 1NXBR32E25Z436918 2003 Chevrolet Malibu 1G1NE52JX3M587209 2007 Dodge Magnum 2D4FV47T47H640935 Shimono Mountain Bike NO VIN 1995 Ford Taurus 1FALP52U7SA150356 2003 Mazda Protege JM1BJ225X30135856 1999 Toyota Corolla 1NXBR12E4XZ264446 *** REBUILT *** 2006 Chevrolet Impala 2G1WT55K369352117 2005 Ford Freestyle 1FMDK02105GA62218 2009 Nissan Sentra 3N1AB61E69L619250 2003 Nissan Altima 1N4AL11D33C208918 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 3VWBB61C6WM044179 1997 Honda VT600 JH2PC2119VM800103 2006 Ford Five Hundred 1FAFP25106G183411 2001 Dodge Neon 1B3ES46C71D263591 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 1B7HC13Y8VJ604432 1998 GMC Jimmy 1GKCS13W8W2563408 2005 Chevrolet Aveo KL1TD52695B361696 1997 Toyota Avalon 4T1BF12B7VU178950 2000 Nissan Xterra 5N1ED28T7YC518858 2003 Mazda Protege JM1BJ246431145492 1997 Chevrolet C1500 2GCEC19RXV1233335 2003 Ford Expedition 1FMFU18L23LB54212 1994 Chevrolet C1500 2GCEC19Z1R1264995 9 2 9 - 5 1 9 5 7 6 , 11/17,24,12/1 NOTICE The following rooms will be sold at the public auction starting at 3653 Memorial Dr Decatur Ga, 30032. The auction will be on December 7, 2017 it will start at 8:30a.m.

3653 Memorial Dr Dec Ga, 30032 404-286-9752 776028 Sheila Carr 1185 776028 symone smith 1104 776028 Solange Collier 1015 776028 leatecia williams 2241 776028 bertha favors 1086 776028 Lillian Pitts 1063 776028 Brion Jordan 2320 776028 keith moore ll 1619 776028 sadiyq arrahim 1315 776028 Cedric Roberts 1029 776028 Antonio Bryant 2331 776028 brandon davis 1010 2951 NE Expressway Chamblee Ga, 30341 770458-8353 776058 Perry Andrews 2004 776058 WYLESA COLVIN 2513 776058 NATASHA FLETCHER 1304 776058 GAYLA WILLIAMS 1105 776058 jason river 2315 776058 Carlena Mason 2331 776058 Jesse Perry 2525 2885 Clairmont Rd Ne Atl Ga, 30329 404-315-0681 776034 Corey Powell B377 776034 JOSUE DUPERVIL A404 776034 KELVIN GORMAN A418 776034 Jessica Willis A246 776034 CURTIS FAIRBANKS F010 776034 MARWAN AL MUFTI C010 776034 Nia Thompson B300 776034 Jessica Stewart A234 2175 Piedmont Rd Ne Atl Ga, 30324 404-815-0262 776035 Mathew Harris A580 776035 katrina flores A422 776035 BART PHILLIPHS B423 776035 WHO ROOM A721 776035 AUTHUR JOHNSON A711 776035 SHANELLE LEWIS A343 776035 lindsay hornback B327 776035 dada ingram A123 776035 HAROLD LITTLE A013 776035 AIESHA HASSAN A707 776035 Brett Michael C203 300 Peters St Sw Atl Ga, 30313 404-681-0502 776053 ERNESTINE ELLISON 6470 776053 LEE FRANCIS 3193 776053 KERRY HARDY 5019 776053 SHAQUAN SHABAZZ

PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS 4138 776053 peyton holt 6029 776053 Sha Su Adili 4737 776053 AIRECK HOGAN 4980 776053 KIYONA WAYS 4922 776053 Gregory Gilmore 2311 776053 KIM SIMMONS 6062 776053 DEMETRIUS DUNBAR 6614 776053 Erica Tucker AA6481B 776053 DARIEN ALLINGTON 6158 776053 teresa conwell 4907 776053 Chauncey Brown 6645 776053 chiquita lowe 4873 776053 WILLIAMS ADLER 1406 776053 AARON PITMAN 4624 776053 Shadyrra Stubbs 3010 776053 eddie brooks 4815 776053 ANgela Jackson 4883 776053 caroline dewar 3094 776053 ALONZO MCCARR 4315 776053 Thomas Zinn 4608 776053 mandela Doty 1310 776053 ABRIAYAUNNA WILLIAMS 4601 776053 peyton holt 6031 776053 DAHLIA DAVILA 4860 776053 Laquetta Prince 6168 776053 SHANI CHAMBERS 6065 776053 WHITNEY PATE 4817 776053 julhon randolph 1905 776053 Brian Stephens 6132 776053 Defrance Leon 2113 776053 Arkeisha Manson 3155 776053 CARNELL SYKES 3070 776053 Marcus Kendrick 4957 776053 Tameka Walker 6424 2886 Forrest Hills Dr Sw Atl Ga, 30315 404-768-0781 776060 terri dortch 0164 776060 KEEONNA WESTBROOK AA0065J 776060 jontay talley 3163 776060 Briunonka Fowler 3154 776060 venice harris 0221 776060 danielle moye 3115 776060 STEVE JORDAN 3003 776060 ERICA BEASLEY 0197 776060 AKILAH WILLIAMSON 0147 4540 Washinton Rd College Park Ga, 30337 404763-0000 776084 TERRY CREWS 1009 776084 Malitha miller 0923 776084 raymond vazquez 0440 776084 TANIKA CLINE 0126 776084 ALEXANDER TEJADA 0162 776084 SHALONDE COX 0460 776084 Patrick Okrioh 0702 776084 sandra boone 0323 776084 MARTINEZ ARNOLD 0326 776084 willie brown jr.

1117 776084 Betty Jarvis 1150 776084 ERICA NORRIS 0134 776084 RHODA ALEXANDER 0234 776084 MARK TAYLOR II 0161 776084 ODDIS SMITH 1128 776084 LAKESHA LOVETTE 0141 776084 stephen allen 0454 776084 DENNIS THOMAS 0334 776084 donald CORNELIOUS 1155 776084 VALERIE ADAMS 1158 776084 corey shield 0309 929-521798, 12/1,6

ZONINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The City of Peachtree Corners City Council will hold a public hearing at City Hall, 147 Technology Parkway, Suite 200, Peachtree Corners, Georgia beginning at 7:00 PM on December 19, 2017 to consider the following: RZ2017-003 & V2017008. Holcomb Bridge Road Townhomes. Request to rezone a 2.16-acre parcel from C-1 to R-TH along with associated variances to accommodate a new 17-unit townhome development at 3926 H

ZONINGS Holcomb Bridge Road, Dist.

6, Land Lot 313, Peachtree Corners, GA. RZ2017-004 & CIC2017004. Roberts Properties.

Request to rezone two parcels consisting of 4.4 acres from C-2 to MUD along with associated change in condition to accommodate a new mixed-use development at 4936 Peachtree Corners Circle and 5246 Peachtree Parkway, Dist. 6, Land Lot 301, Peachtree Corners, GA. KYM CHERECK, CITY CLERK CITY OF PEACHTREE CORNERS 934-521677, 12/1 THE CITY OF NORCROSS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be held before the Norcross Board of Appeals on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at 7:00 PM in City Hall at 65 Lawrenceville Street for the purpose of due process of the following: VAR2017-0023, located at 0 Mitchell Road, parcel identification number R6242 406, 1) a variance to Section 115-93(h)(1)(commercial/ other uses) to increase the front yard setback, and 2) a variance to Section 115-93(i) (e) to allow all parking in the front yard.

For further information please call the Community Development Department at 678-421-2067.

934-521908, 12/1

FORECLOSURES NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER GEORGIA, GWINNETT COUNTY Because of default in the payment of the indebtedness, secured by a Security Deed executed by Damir Komic to Mortgage electronic Registration Systems, Inc. dated October 28, 2016 in the amount of $153,174.00 and recorded in Deed Book 54717, Page 642, Gwinnett County, Georgia Records; as last transferred to Fidelity Bank, DBA Fidelity Bank Mortgage by assignment; the undersigned, Fidelity Bank, DBA Fidelity Bank Mortgage pursuant to said deed and the note thereby secured, has declared the entire amount of said indebtedness due and payable and pursuant to the power of sale contained in said deed, will on the first Tuesday in January, 2018 during the legal hours of sale, at the Courthouse door in Gwinnett County, sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, the property described in said deed to-wit: All that tract or parcel of land lying and being in Land Lot 96, of the 5th District, Gwinnett County, Georgia, being Lot 78, Block A, of Savannah Ridge Subdivision, Unit 1, as per plat recorded in Plat Book 95, Pages 1415, and revised in Plat Book 99, Pages 111-112, Gwinnett County, Georgia records, which plat is incorporated herein and made a part hereof. which has the property address of 3981 Savannah Ridge Trace, Loganville, GA 30052., together with all fixtures and other personal property conveyed by said deed.

The sale will be held subject to any unpaid taxes, asrights-of-way, sessments, easements, protective covenants or restrictions, liens, and other superior matters of record which may affect said property.

The sale will be conducted subject (1) to confirmation that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the holder of the security deed.

Notice has been given of intention to collect attorneys’ fees in accordance with the terms of the note secured by said deed. Notice has been also given, in writing and by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the borrower, of the name, address, and telephone number of the individual or entity who shall have full authority to negotiate, amend, and modify all terms of the Security Deed and the note thereby secured in accordance with O.C.G.A. Section 44-14-162.2(a).

To the best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the party (or parties) in possession of the subject property is (are): Damir Komic or tenant or tenants and the proceeds of said sale will be applied to the payment of said indebtedness, the expense of said sale, all as provided in said deed, and the undersigned will execute a deed to the purchaser as provided in the aforementioned Security Deed.

Fidelity Bank, DBA Fidelity Bank Mortgage Attorney in Fact for _______________ DRL Law, LLC (404) 410-1220 www.drllawllc.com File No. 170218.2 Dates: 11/29/17; 12/6/17; 12/13/17; 12/20/17; 12/27/17. THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. 9 5 0 - 5 2 0 6 2 6 , 11/29,12/6,13,20,27

FULL TIME COMPUTER IT AAA Global Technologies LLC SW Dvlprs, Applications - Dsgn, dvlp, test, config, Implem’t appln SW. Must have exp. in one of following: Agile & Waterfall Process, Oracle, SQL, Java, Web Servs, UNIX, Shell Scripting, AWS, Jenkin, Devops, Salesforce, Cloud, .NET, Sftw/UAT, Dataw’housing, Mainframe, BI, ETL & Mobile Technlg, RDBMS, CRM Facets. REQ: Bach’s deg or equiv. in Comp/ Sci/ Engg/ Math/ Business/ rlt field +1 yr exp for Jr. positions; Master’s or equiv. (Bach’s + 5 yrs exp.) in Comp/ Sci/ Engg/ Math/Business/ rlt for Sr. positions.

May need to travel.

SW Dvlprs: Comp Sci/ Engg/ IT- Master’s deg + 1 yr Exp or Bach’s deg + 5 yrs Exp in dsgn, dvlp & testing of S/W Applns proficiency in JAVA, UNIX, Scripting lgs (Shell or Java Script), SQL Prgmg, Oracle; Sr. Biz Analysts: Master’s or equiv. (Bach’s + 5 yrs exp.) in Comp/ Sci/ Engg/ Math/ Business/ rlt with exp in one of the following: Agile and Waterfall process, HP ALM, SQL, Jira, Rally Dev. Essential travel within US. For all positions exp in job offered or rlt. Mail CV: 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Bldg.

11 # 301, Atlanta, GA 30328

HOUSES FOR SALE GRAYSON, GA 30017 428 Townsend Street

UNDER CONTRACT 4BR/3.5BA Meticulously Maintained All Brick Home.

Great room w/built-ins, open to kitchen.

Breakfast area overlooks backyard.

Covered back porch.

Gated community.

EHO • $285,000.

Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com

LOGANVILLE, GA 30052 4433 BEAVER TREE STREET

Trac Hoe/ Skid Steer Operator Trac Hoe/Skid Steer Operator for a local grading company.

Must be experienced.

Paid holidays, vacation and health insurance offered. Please call 470-239-4692 leave message.

PROTECT OUR PLANET

LAKE/RIVER/COASTAL PROPERTY FOR SALE

COMMERCIAL RENTALS

MONROE, GA 30656

EATONTON, GA 31024 210 RIVER LAKE DR.

LOGANVILLE, GA 30052 4665 ATLANTA HWY SUITE 100

1155 Jim Daws Rd.

ACREAGE Older 4 Sided Brick Ranch Home On Wooded 39+ Acre Parcel.

Family rm w/fireplace, formal dining room, spacious kitchen, laundry area, full bath and large bedrooms!

2 creeks cross the property in back. +/-1012 feet of road frontage. $242,000 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com

BURIAL LOTS Broadlawn Memorial Gardens Buford, Ga. Spaces 3,4 Good Shepherd section lot 267-A $1,995. 770-366-7411 REAL ESTATE FOR RENT FARMS, LOTS & ACREAGE FOR SALE LOGANVILLE, GA 30052 ETCHISON RD

MONROE, GA 30655 3045 AMBER CT

NEW LISTING HUD # 105-660664 Beautiful 4BR/2.5BA Split Foyer on 1 Acre Cul-De-Sac Lot with Back Deck and Decking for Pool.

FHA Insured w/escrow EHO • $155,000 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com

SERVICES HOME REPAIR/ REMODELING

FOREST REMODELING, INC. •Finished Basements •Bathroom Remodeling •Kitchen Remodeling •Custom Cabinets •Room Additions •Garages/Carports •Screened Porches •Custom Decks •Siding All Types

770-962-2071 Credit Cards Accepted

COMMERCIAL SPACE Approximately 1319 Sq. Ft. Commercial Space For Lease.

Has 2 front entrances and 1 rear entry and suitable for drive through location.

Available Now! $1648 Per Month $492 Per Month CAM Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com

HOUSES FOR RENT ROCKDALE/SOUTH 4BR/3BA 2 Story Cape Cod Home for Rent.

Good schools. $1200/ month. 386-690-4926

GARAGE SALES LAWRENCEVILLE, 30044 SUPER MEGA GARAGE SALE SAT., 12/2, 7-3.

510 Clearwater Place River Park Subd. off Oakland Rd. & Law’ville Hwy. Furn., clothing, appli., hshld. items, handbags, shoes, jewelry & much more!

SNELLVILLE DOWNSIZING SALE FRI., 12/1, 10-4 SAT., 12/2, 8-4

2691 RIVERFRONT DR.

MAKE OFFER! Beautiful 2.68 Acre Wooded Tract of Land.

200 feet of road frontage.

Not divisible.

Per planning and development mobile homes are permitted.

No metal type storage container structures are not permitted on parcel. $65,000 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com

Furniture, tools, kayaks, books, clothes, bottles, kitchenware, holiday decor, and More!

FURNITURE/ HOUSEHOLD GOODS

APTS/DUP/CONDOS/ T’HOMES FOR RENT

GWINNETT DUPLEXES

MONROE, GA 30656 JIM DAWS RD

ACREAGE PRICE REDUCTION! Great 32.53+/- acre tract zoned A2, perfect for livestock, farming, hunting, or build your dream home.

Property has a 20 foot easement for access.

Motivated Sellers, Bring All Offers! $211,445 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com

2 STORY On Full Finished Basement.

5 Bedrooms 3 Full Baths $229,900 EHO Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com

LAKE OCONEE Beautiful shaded lake lot with hardwoods and seawall with great views of Lake Oconee.

Approximately 120 ft water frontage.

Old mobile home used to sit on this property so septic is in place.

What a scenic place to build your dream home or vacation home. $240,000.

Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com CEMETERY LOTS FOR SALE

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GWINNETT SUGAR HILL ONE MONTH FREE Limited AvailabilitySelect Units Only Brand New Luxury Townhomes with Attached Garages and Professionally Managed. Please call 770.729.4289 or visit us at www.SugarHill TownHomes.com MOBILE HOMES & LOTS FOR RENT BARROW-AUBURN 1-2-3 BEDROOMS IN MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY. Rent Starting at $100/ week. Large Lots.

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we Gwinnett Daily Post

weekend entertainment FRIDAY DECEMBER 1, 2017

It’s December!

Things to do across Gwinnett this season — Pages 4-6C

10 spot the

It shouldn’t surprise, but Beyonce tops the list of highest earning women in music — by a substantial margin.

Forbes recently released a list of the top female music earners for 2017: 1. Beyonce, $105 million 2. Adele, $69M 3. Taylor Swift, $44M 4. Celine Dion, $42M 5. Jennifer Lopez, $38M 6. Dolly Parton, $37M 7. Rhianna, $36M 8. Britney Spears, $34M 9. Katy Perry, $33M 10. Barbara Streisand, $30M

a look ahead

the dish

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

— Page 2C

movie review Gary Oldman stars in ‘Darkest Hour’

— Page 8C

Dec. 8 A Walk Through Bethlehem — Simpsonwood United Methodist Church in Peachtree Corners hosts a live Nativity from Dec. 8-10. The church, located at 4500 Jones Bridge Circle N.W., asks for canned food donations for the Nocross Cooperative Ministry as part of the event. For more information, go to www.simpsonwoodumc.org.

Dec. 9 Cookies with the Clauses — The Bogan Park and Aquatic Center

hosts a morning decorating cookies with Santa and Mrs. Claus for ages 4 and up. You must register

by Dec. 6. Cost is $6 per child. For more information, go to www.gwinnettparks.com.

Lunch with Santa — The Southeastern Railway Museum, located at 3595 Buford Highway in Duluth, hosts the event that includes lunch, crafting, a hay ride and a ride on a train to meet Santa. Cost is $18 per person. For more information, go to www.train-museum.org.

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SUWANEE jolly holly dAy!

SUWANEE.COM

LIGHTING THE TREE! SINGING CAROLS! CHILLIN’ WITH SANTA!

FRIDAY, DEC 1 6:30-9:30 PM TOWN CENTER PARK

2C • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

dish

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dining

the

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe 1095 Old Peachtree Road N.W., Suite 104, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-804-4580 www.tazikiscafe.com

Chad Wilson, who owns the Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe in Suwanee, recommends the Greek salad with an add-on of salmon. Made with red peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, pepperoncini and feta, the salad has a full flavor profile. (Photos: Julie Thompson)

BY JULIE THOMPSON Staff Intern

Owner: Chad Wilson owns the Suwanee location of this franchised business Open Since: July 2015 Location: This Greek eatery is located in the neighborhood complex near Jim ’N Nick’s BBQ Restaurant and next door to the Smoothie Bar off Old Peachtree Road in Suwanee.

Hours: Business hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday to Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday.

Atmosphere: A refined atmosphere and fresh cuisine are not the only services that Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe provides — Suwanee patrons should know that this business actively gives back to the community.

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe is a spacious restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating. The walls are lined with photograph taken by the franchise founder, Keith Richards, during a trip to Greece over 20 years ago.

It was this trip that inspired Richards and his wife to try their hand at authentic Mediterranean cuisine and open a restaurant in Birmingham, Ala., in 1998.

The franchise expanded to Atlanta in the early 2000s, and local store owner Chad Wilson was part of the effort to open a Suwanee location.

“We were really excited to come to Suwanee because of the growth in the area,” Wilson said. “What we realized was this community was so strong with relationships and education and we said we would love to do business

ON THE MENU • Grilled Lamb Gyro — Taziki sauce, tomatoes, mixed lettuce and grilled onions, served with two sides, $9.99 • Chicken Feast — Served with Taziki sauce and two sides, $9.99 • Turkey Club Ciabatta — Hickory bacon, Swiss cheese, pesto aioli, tomatoes and mixed lettuce on fresh ciabatta, $8.99 • Salmon Greek Salad — Served with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, roasted red peppers, red onions, feta, pepperoncini, kalamata olives and Greek dressing, $12.99 Desserts: • Baklava — From Hellas Bakery, $2.75 • Chocolate chip cookies — two fresh baked cookies, $1.99

here.”

The education aspect was particularly important to Wilson and his crew, who have started a program to work with special needs students from middle school ages onward.

Taziki’s very own Herbs Offering Personal Enrichment project employs special needs children and adults to tend herb gardens that supply the location with fresh produce.

“We are just getting started here in Atlanta with the program, but we are definitely happy that we are able to support that part of the education system,” Wilson said.

Special needs adults from Annandale Village in Suwanee also tend boxed gardens and greenhouses within the village’s residential area. This gives the participants a sense of

The gyro with grilled lamb is one of the most popular items at Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe. It comes with Taziki sauce, chips and a choice of roasted potatoes or basmati rice.

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe moved to Suwanee in July 2015. The Suwannee location is the seventh franchise store in Georgia.

ownership, and they are even on the restaurant’s payroll.

Menu: Taziki’s takes pride in serving authentic cuisine that is inspired by the home-cooking styles popular across the Mediterranean.

What makes Taziki’s cuisine authentic is the preparation method in which everything is made from scratch every day.

As there are no freezers, microwaves or fryers on the premises, the Tazkiki method isn’t the fastest method, but it is the most authentic one.

The staff cuts all meats and proteins twice a day to ensure that items like grilled lamb gyro will be as fresh as possible.

Although the wrap could stand on its own, it is paired with Taziki sauce, and it comes with chips as well as an option of fruit, cucumber salad, roasted potatoes, pasta salad or basmati rice.

Those who skip out on meat are also covered. With options like the gluten-free hummus served with fresh veggies, the menu accommodates almost any diet.

And no matter what they order, customers can expect to enjoy a flavorful dish. Spices like cumin, garlic, oregano and cilantro provide a zesty taste to the dishes so that healthy eating can be a pleasurable experience.

Wilson tends to eat

A popular entree at Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe is the grilled chicken feast. The meal comes with a choice of two sides and pairs well with the Greek salad and basmati rice.

light and usually goes for to the Greek salad with a salmon add-on.

“With your Greek salmon salad, you have all the flavor profile with the feta and the cucumbers and the red peppers and the pepperoncini — and then you cut in with the salmon — it is phenomenal,” Wilson said.

Wilson also recommends the basil tomato soup. While the tomato soup is from the seasonal menu as a winter special, another popular soup is

homemade lemon Greek soup and it is served 12 months out of the year.

A selection of wines and beers is also available upon request for those who enjoy a drink with their meal.

Something you might not know: Taziki’s was the very first franchise to receive a certification from the Real Foundation, a national food service dedicated to recognizing businesses with healthy and sustainable food solutions.

Live Entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights!

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arts&entertainment Artist Mary Buck adds Paris to photographic journeys Art Beat The photograph “Montmartre in the Morning” is one of many images of Paris shot by Gwinnett artist Mary Buck.

Images will be available soon for view and for sale. (Special Photo)

Holley Calmes

Comments from the audience welcome.

Your Local Place of Worship Welcomes You IGNITE YOUR LIFE, YOUR WORSHIP, AND YOUR WORLD!

3375 Church Lane, Duluth, GA Church Office: 770-497-8227 • Fax: 770-497-9775 Rev. Ronald L. Bowens, Pastor Warmer through through Fellowship Warmer Fellowship Deeper through through Discipleship Deeper Discipleship Larger through through Evangelism Larger Evangelism Sharing through Ministries Sharing through Ministries AND Stronger throughWorship Worshipand andthe theWord WordofofGod God AND Stronger through

Celebrating 5 years Rev. Ronald L. Bowens

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Sunday Worship Services................7:30 AM, 11:00 AM Children’s Church............................7:30 AM, 11:00 AM Sunday School ................................................. 9:45 AM Bible Study (all ages) ...................Wednesday, 7:30 PM

Poplar Hill Baptist Church

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Regency

Church of God 1132 Buford Hwy 770-271-5610

770.945.6131 234 Shadburn Ave, Buford

Pastor: Rev. Avery Headd B.A., M. Div.

Times of Worship Sunday • 8 am & 11 am Times of Instruction Sunday • 9:45 am Church School Sunday • 10 am Invitational Counseling Wednesday • Youth Bible Studies 7 pm Wednesday • Adult Bible Studies 7 pm

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Sunday 10:30 AM Worship Sunday 10:30 AM “J” Town Kids Church Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study & Youth regencycog.com

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Fairview Presbyterian Church 194 years young 857 Duluth Highway, Lawrenceville, GA

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To advertise your worship service or event here, contact

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Love movies? Want to tell everyone what you think? Become a Film Fan. The Post will pay for the movie and a light snack.

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Friendship Baptist Church

A Purpose Driven Church

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beauty of a city is reflected by its people.”

Her favorite place to photograph in Paris was along the Seine River.

“I found everything from tango dancers, jugglers, lovers, joggers and parents with their children strolling the banks of this iconic river,” she said. “Walking along the Seine made me realize that Paris is about joy and love.”

The workshop provided encounters with gifted teachers and other artists.

“We had presentations from world class photographers such as Peter Turnley, who led the workshop, Michael Setboun and Gerard Uferas,” Buck said. “We studied the photography of Henri Cartier Bresson, the famous black and white film photographer from the 20th century who coined the phrase ‘The decisive moment.’

Every afternoon and early evening we roamed the streets of Paris exploring for moments to be captured.”

Buck also experienced a presentation by Voya Mitrovic, a great printer of black and white photography.

“I invested in one of his prints of Turnley’s famous photograph which graces the cover of his book ‘French Kiss — A Love Letter to Paris.’

Turnley and Voya signed the print. The photography is displayed in my home, a constant reminder of the beautiful city of Paris,” she said.

Holley Calmes is a freelance writer and public relations consultant specializing in the arts.

Email her at hcalmes@ mindspring.com.

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It seems like just yesterday that Gwinnett photographer Mary Buck returned from Cuba with a new collection of beautiful photography.

Buck captured the faces and colorful locales of Havana and outlying Cuban terrain, turning in an impressive body of visual artwork.

Then Buck discovered another opportunity to broaden her understanding of the journalistic side of photography: a course titled “Streets of Paris Photography” through Maine Media Workshops.

“As a portrait photographer for the past 21 years, I typically pose people for their photographs.

Street photography lends itself to seizing the moment through a combination of balance, composition, persistence and sometimes luck. When the workshop in Paris was announced, I quickly decided to attend,” Bucks said.

September found Buck on the streets of the City of Light, experiencing the culture, food and architecture of Paris. As a result, she will soon have a collection of images available on her website to view and for sale.

“I am creating a set of images of the Eiffel Tower called ‘Patterns of the Eiffel Tower.’ To capture these images, I literally laid down underneath the tower and photographed upwards using a 15 mm wide angle lens,” she said. “The wide-angle perspective of this magnificent tower is amazingly different than anything else I have ever seen. I will also have many of the images of the people of Paris on the site.”

The citizens of Paris were not as enthusiastic about having Buck photograph them as the Cubans were.

“I still captured many amazing images of life in Paris,” she said. “It would be hard to compare Paris to Cuba. Very different, but in an artistic sense, the imagery of people is the same because the

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arts&entertainment

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Norcross to make downtown ‘Sparkle’ for holiday season

FROM STAFF REPORTS The city of Norcross will host its annual holiday celebration, “Sparkle!

A Celebration of Kids, Creativity and Magic,” which includes carriage rides, photos with Santa, a Christmas tree lighting in the park, holiday entertainment and more starting today.

“We invite all of our citizens and visitors to experience the wonder and delight of the holidays in Norcross,” city of Norcross Mayor Bucky Johnson said. “In what is a special time of year, we look forward to sharing the spirit of the season through our holiday celebration.”

Norcross already has a variety of events planned to encourage its residents to celebrate the holiday cheer.

The traditional lighting of the Christmas tree will be in Thrasher Park and accompanied by music from Norcross First United Methodist Church.

Norcross resident Steven Howington will be the individual to officially light the Christmas tree.

For more than 30 years, Howington, who has Down Syndrome, has lit the city of Norcross’ Christmas tree.

Also in Thrasher Park today, Santa will be busy checking his list in his workshop in the park. He will be available for photos. A host of organizations and businesses, such as the Norcross Masonic Lodge, Norcross Lions Club, city of Norcross and Chase’s Grille & Wingery, will be passing out soup, s’mores, cookies and hot cocoa to keep guests warm beginning at 5:30 p.m. To top it off, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” will be on the big screen as a local group of Disney princess performers will also be on hand to add to the Christmas magic.

They will be available for photos and to visit with families during the event.

The Friday Concert Series will be bringing back Deb Bowman & the Big Love Band in A Holiday Cabaret today.

The concert is in the Ballroom of the Norcross Cultural Arts Center from

The city of Norcross will host its annual holiday celebration, “Sparkle! A Celebration of Kids, Creativity and Magic,” starting today. (Special Photo)

7 to 9 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m. The performance is free, but seating is limited. Interested guests can book a reservation by calling 678-421-2048.

A Historic Tour of Homes will open guests imaginations as they get the opportunity to peer into homes from yesteryear and today during the magical Historic Norcross Holiday Tour of Homes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and the Candlelight Tour from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Artisan Gift Market, a new feature of the Historic Norcross Holiday Tour of Homes, will give visitors the opportunity to find a wonderful array of handmade items just in time for the giftgiving season. The homes include the Doherty Cottage, sponsored by Norcross First United Methodist Church; the Gordon House, sponsored by Bank of North Georgia; the Louise Ivy House, sponsored by Cardinal Lake Pottery and Chalk It Up Norcross; the Oakes House, sponsored

by Explore Gwinnett; and the Schendzelos House, sponsored by the Norcross Development Authority.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at www.freshtix.com.The Gift Market will be held in the Historic Rectory next to the Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday. For more information, visit historicnorcrossholidaytourofhomes.com.

Carriage rides will be dashing through downtown Norcross beginning today all the way to Dec. 22.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday evening from 6:30 to 8:30

p.m. in front of Taste of Britain, you can catch Santa at Remax on Jones Street (downtown Norcross) starting Tuesday.

Take a ride on Santa’s sleigh at no charge.

Complimentary photos with Santa will be offered today. Photos with Santa after today will be offered for a fee. Photo packages start at $20 and are printed on-site.

The beloved family holiday story “A Christmas Carol” opened at Lionheart Theatre Company this week and will run through Dec. 17.

This delightfully refreshing version of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale is told from a new perspective — a young boy’s grandfather.

Thomas enjoys spending time at his grandfather’s prominent London business, but cannot understand why his grandfather would give his hard-earned money to the poor. This gives Grandfather the perfect opportunity to tell the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. This traditional retelling of “A Christmas Carol” comes to life onstage as a playwithin-a-play. In this adaptation by Michael A. Youngs and directed by Richard Diaz, you’ll find all of the classic Charles Dickens characters. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.lionhearttheatre.org.

Become part of a new holiday tradition as Santa drops in for s’mores and hot cocoa at the Discovery Garden Park on from 2 to 4 p.m.

Dec. 16. A Wildlife Tree will be adorned with raisin icicles and birdseed ornaments for animals.

Guests are encouraged to bring a camera to capture magical encounters with Santa and his wintry friends.

Mall of Georgia to host Breakfast with Santa event FROM STAFF REPORTS Santa and Papa Elf will be making a special appearance for Mall of Georgia’s Breakfast with Santa this Saturday.

From 8:30 to10 a.m., families are invited to enjoy breakfast, holiday festivities and story time with Santa and Papa Elf in The Dining Pavilion.

Supported by

Choreography by John McFall Live with Atlanta Ballet Orchestra

December 8 - 28, 2017 The Fox Theatre See this version one last time before Atlanta Ballet unveils a brand new Nutcracker in 2018!

Visit atlantaballet.com or call 1.855.285.8499 for tickets!

Coco Mathieson. Photo by Charlie McCullers.

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Groups of 10+, call 404.873.5811 x207.

The event is free to Family at Mall of Georgia members and $5 for adults to attend. Guests who are not already members may sign up for Family at Mall of Georgia at Guest Services or the Breakfast with Santa event.

Organizers encourage guests to reserve their spot by emailing mmr4852@simon.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017 • 5C

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NOW OPEN!

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

• Open Jump Area • X-Beam • Slam Dunk Zone • Slingshot Air Jumpers • Dodgeball Arena • Vertigo Tower •AND MORE!

Southern Living, Dillard’s set for Saturday Christmas celebration in Buford, have been chosen as feature stores to have a member of Southern LivFolks looking for ing in attendance. ideas on their upcom“We’re excited to ing Christmas party collaborate with Dilor how to get in the lard’s on this holiday holiday spirit around celebration, and to home won’t have to have many of our edilook far Saturday with tors joining in person Dillard’s Christmas around the country,” celebration at the Mall Southern Living Ediof Georgia. tor-in-Chief Sid Evans The nationwide said.“We’re proud of department store our holiday collection has teamed up with with Dillard’s, and Southern Living for a this event is a way for day of holiday interus to bring it to life.” active workshops and The guest of honor shopping. will be Southern LivDillard’s has a ing’s test kitchen chef total of 263 stores.

Ivey Odom.

However, 12 stores, The event will including the Mall showcase the Southof Georgia location ern Living branded

trevor.mcnaboe @gwinnettdailypost.com

collection, featuring holiday demonstrations and special presentations including holiday decorating, mocktail recipes, tablescape design, gift wrapping, wreath making and more.

“We are so happy to join Southern Living in offering our customers these exciting holiday demonstrations,” Dillard’s Vice President of Merchandising Scott Bartels said.“Our Southern Living collection offers something for everyone to make ‘home for the holidays’ that much more special.”

The holiday celebration will last from noon to 5 p.m.

Don't forget to purchase Rockin' Jump gift cards for the holiday season. They make great stocking stuffers!

(678) 324-9590 buford.rockinjump.com 3520 Gravel Springs Road Buford, Georgia 30519

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BY TREVOR MCNABOE

VISIT THE MEN’S DEPARTMENT OR MEN’S FRAGRANCE DEPARTMENT AT

ENTER TO WIN

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre

“The Nutcracker”

December 1 - 17

December 18 at Theater

Sugarloaf Ballet Company

Georgia Swarm vs. Rochester Knighthawks

December 6 - 7

December 30

at Theater

at Arena

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Triple 7 Dance “The Wiz”

“The Ghosts of Christmas Eve”

December 9

January 20 - 21

at Arena

at Theater

Home By Dark

Miranda Lambert

December 14

January 20

with Nicole Witt & Danny Mitchell

with Jon Pardi & Brent Cobb

at Theater

at Arena

A Glorious Christmas featuring

Atlanta Gladiators Hockey

December 17

For full schedule, visit AtlantaGladiators.com

at Arena

at Arena

Casting Crowns + For King & Country

an Atlanta Gladiators’ Replica Game Jersey,

“Let There Be Peace on Earth”

at Theater

Nutcracker Excerpts & The Nativity Ballet

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

Gwinnett Symphony

FOUR (4) premium level tickets for Sat, Jan 13 at 7:05pm vs the Swamp Rabbits at Infinite Energy Arena PLUS a $50

giftcard!

Enter at the Men’s Department or Men’s Fragrance Department by December 31, 2017 at Mall of Georgia and Barrow Crossings locations.

Mall of Georgia •

Barrow Crossing Shopping Center

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One winner will be chosen at each of the participating locations.

6C • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

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HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Week full of tree lightings, parades in Gwinnett

BY CURT YEOMANS

Gwinnett County’s 30foot Christmas tree lights up the outside of the Gwinnett County Historic Courthouse at a previous Lighting of the Tree celebration.

Similar lightings are set throughout the county.

(File Photo)

curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com

The holiday season is in full swing around Gwinnett County as the county, cities and businesses stage seasonrelated events, including treelightings and parades.

Here is a round-up of some holiday tree lightings and parades taking place in Gwinnett over the next week: Saturday Buford Business Alliance Holiday Festival and Parade: Lasts from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will include stage performances, shopping, holiday treats, giveaways, vendors and a parade in downtown Buford, at the corner of Main and South Hill streets.

Deck the Hall in Duluth: Lasts from 2 to 7 p.m. on the Duluth Towne Green. It will

include live entertainment, kids crafts, a snow playground, a visit by Santa, a snow slide, a Polar Express train ride and a tree lighting ceremony.

There will also be an open house from 4 to 5 p.m. at City Hall where residents can meet members of the City Council.

2017 Christmas in Dacula: Lasts all day. The festivities

begin with a $5 per person pancake breakfast from 7 to 11:30 a.m. at Hebron Baptist Church. There will be a car show from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Christmas festival will last from noon to 8 p.m. Live nativity presentations will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the city’s tree lighting will take place at 7:15 p.m.

Sounding Off the Christmas Season: Lasts from 5 to 8 p.m. in downtown Auburn.

The event will include a live Nativity, live music and the arrival of Santa Claus and his live reindeer. Ice skating at the city’s Whistlestop Park is also expected to begin that day.

Sugar Hill’s Annual Holiday Celebration: Lasts from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the Dawn P. Gober Community Plaza at City Hall. It will include photos with Santa, a visit by The Grinch, a holiday market, free carriage rides, food vendors, performances by local musicians, ice skating and fake snow for kids to play in.

Loganville Christmas Parade: Lasts from 6 to 8 p.m.

The parade will begin at Bay Creek Elementary School and come down Main Street. The

theme will be “Have Yourself an Ugly Sweater Christmas” and participants and attendees are encouraged to wear ugly Christmas sweaters.

Sunday Christmas in Grayson: Begins at 2 p.m. The event at Grayson Community Park will include bounce houses, pony rides, free activities for kids, photos with Santa (for a small fee) and a tree lighting at 6 p.m.

Dec. 8 Lawrenceville’s Hometown Christmas Parade: Begins at 7 p.m. The second annual parade presented by United Community Bank will travel through the Lawrenceville square and the rest of city’s downtown area. It will feature an appearance by Santa Claus.

music

BY VENUE 37 MAIN 37 E. Main St., Buford 678-288-2030 www.buford.37main.com • Dec. 1: The Ruckus • Dec. 2: Mock of Ages (Def Leppard Tribute) • Dec. 8: Aunt Betty • Dec. 9: Head Games (For-

eigner Tribute) • Dec. 15-16: Queen Nation (Queen Tribute) • Dec. 22: Departure (Journey Tribute) • Dec. 23: Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi Tribute)

285 W. Washington St., Athens 706-549-7871 www.40watt.com • Dec. 1: Cindy Wilson, Yip Deceiver, Material Girls • Dec. 2: Kishi Bashi, Tall Tall Trees • Dec. 7, 8: High Hat at The

40 WATT CLUB

Watt • Dec. 15: Wolves among Ravens • Dec. 16: Bloodkin ATLANTA SYMPHONY HALL 1280 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta

Calendar of Events

December 2017

Living Well Lectures

Wellness in the Kitchen

Freedom from Smoking

Each month, join us for a fun and informative lecture on health and wellness topics.

Cooking tasty, healthy meals is a snap when you know the secrets of a chef. Join our chefs for tips and tricks that will take your cooking to the next level and bring wellness to the table.

Everybody loves a quitter when it comes to breaking a tobacco habit!

This is a free, 8-session program, conducted over 7 weeks, and uses an addiction-based model to help you understand your addiction and learn ways to break the habit for good.

WINDER:

NGMC Barrow, Suite 380 New Treatment Options for Back Pain Tuesday, December 12; 12:30 p.m.

Speaker: Jon Horn, MD

BRASELTON:

WINDER:

NGMC Barrow, Suite 380 Sweet Ideas for Lighter Holiday Desserts Tuesday, December 5; 6 p.m.

NGMC Braselton Education Center

Lung Cancer Support Group

Making the Hospitalist a Part of Your Health Team Thursday, December 14; 1 p.m.

Speaker: Eric Marsh, MD

Join the newly diagnosed, survivors and loved ones for a lung cancer support group. Please call 770-2198815 or email penny.mccall@nghs. com for more information.

Hope Through the Holidays This group offers grief support for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. A licensed social worker provides education for coping, information about what to expect, and normalizing the grief process.

GAINESVILLE:

675 White Sulphur Road Suite 115 Wednesdays, December 6 & 13 5:30 p.m.

Speaker: Hospice of NGMC

Yoga If you’re looking for ways to reduce stress and enjoy peaceful exercise, try yoga! Join Yoga in Daily Life for a basic yoga class in the NGMC Braselton Education Center. Open to participants of all ages. No previous experience is necessary. There will be no class on January 24.

BRASELTON:

NGMC Braselton, Education Center Wednesdays in December and January; 5:30 p.m.

Instructor: Yoga in Daily Life

Stroke Support Group

BRASELTON:

NGMC Braselton, Education Center Monday, December 18; 4:30 p.m.

Car Seat Safety Class Learn how to keep your baby as safe as possible when in his or her car seat. We’ll also check the installation of your car seat in your vehicle at the end of class.

GAINESVILLE:

NGMC Gainesville, Women and Children Education Center 825A Jesse Jewell Parkway Wednesday, December 6; 7 p.m.

Speaker: SafeKids

Easy Breather Support Group Easy Breather Support Group is formed for existing, potential, and previous Pulmonary Rehabilitation patients and their caregivers. We provide education, fellowship, and support to patients with chronic pulmonary disease. Lunch is provided.

WINDER:

YMCA of Georgia’s Peidmont 50 Brad Aikens Drive, Winder Mondays, January 8 -- February 26; 6 p.m.

Childbirth Classes Prepared Childbirth The Prepared Childbirth class covers natural pain control methods, different types of deliveries and the coach’s role. A tour of the OB Unit is included.

Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is important to you and your baby’s health. Our Breastfeeding class is taught

by Board Certified Lactation Consultants. Dads are welcomed and encouraged to attend.

Newborn Parenting Taking care of a newborn can be overwhelming! Being prepared can reduce stress and increase the enjoyment of bringing baby home.

Newborn Parenting class covers the basics of baby care including recognizing illness, feeding, bathing, diaper changes, and more.

For more information about Childbirth Education Classes, visit: www.nghs.com/ob-classes

BRASELTON:

Wednesday, December 13, Noon NGMC Braselton, Education Center

A monthly support group intended to empower stroke survivors and caregivers to lead a satisfying and active life. Learn about stroke prevention, home modifications, coping mechanisms, local resources and more from caring professionals!

GAINESVILLE:

520922-1

NGMC Gainesville, Auxiliary Conference Room Thursday, December 14; 6 p.m.

Register today!

800-347-1416 | nghs.com/events

404-733-4900 www.atlantasymphony.org • Dec. 4: Falla’s Sexy Flamenco Gypsy Dance • Dec. 9, 11: Mahler’s Exuberant Seventh Symphony • Dec. 18, 19: Music for the Very Young: Music of North America • Dec. 29: 98 Degrees at Christmas

The Blasters and Big Sandy • Dec. 1: Atliens • Dec. 3: GWAR • Dec. 3: (HED) P.E. • Dec. 3: Kyle Lucas • Dec. 5: Waterparks • Dec. 5: Trophy Eyes • Dec. 5: D.R.I. • Dec. 7: Cannibal Corpse • Dec. 8: A Tribute to Dimebag

BUCKHEAD THEATRE 3110 Roswell Road, Atlanta 404-843-2825 www.thebuckheadtheatre. com • Dec. 2: War Against Cancer Featuring WAR Live in Concert • Dec. 21: Ed Roland’s Winter Wonder Bash

PHILIPS ARENA 1 Philips Drive N.W., Atlanta 404-878-3000 www.philipsarena.com • Dec. 12: Katy Perry • Dec. 15: Jingle Ball • Dec. 16: V-103 Winterfest

CENTER STAGE THEATER 1374 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta 404-885-1365 www.centerstage-atlanta. com/shows/center-stagetheater • Dec. 8: Illionaire Ambition US Tour 2017 • Dec. 9: Omid Live in Concert EDDIE’S ATTIC 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur 404-377-4976 www.eddiesattic.com • Ongoing: Eddie’s Attic Songwriter’s Open Mic • Dec. 1: Alex Guthrie • Dec. 2: Diana Durrett • Dec. 3: Lance & Lea • Dec. 3: Glen Phillips • Dec. 7: Jack Schneider • Dec. 7: Mutlu EVERETT’S MUSIC BARN 4055 Stonecypher Road, Suwanee 678-858-5363 everettsmusicbarn.net • Dec. 2: Dale and Bradley • Dec. 9: The Wisemen Brothers • Dec. 16: Joy Smith Christmasmas Show FOX THEATRE 660 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta 404-881-2100 foxtheatre.org • Dec. 18: Keith and Kristyn Getty — Sing! An Irish Christmas INFINITE ENERGY ARENA 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 770-813-7500 www.infiniteenergycenter. com • Dec. 9: Trans-Siberian Orchestra • Dec. 17: A Glorius Christmas featuring Casting Crowns and For King & Country

RED CLAY MUSIC FOUNDRY 3116 Main St., Duluth 678-957-7283 www.eddieowenpresents. com • Ongoing: Songwriters Open Mic hosted by Eddie • Ongoing: Gwinnett School of Music Recital • Dec. 1: Standards and Classics — A Christmas Special • Dec. 2: Folk Soul Revival • Dec. 3: Three Little Birds and Three5Human • Dec. 8: Celtic Guitar Christmas with Robin Bullock and Steve Baughman RED LIGHT CAFE 553 Amsterdam Ave., Atlanta 404-874-7828 redlightcafe.com • Ongoing: Wednesday Jazz Jam with The Gordon Vernick Quartet • Dec. 2: Roots at The Red Light with Hard Luck and Trouble, Cedar Hill, Red Clay Poets • Dec. 3: Ben Farmer’s Music Student Mic Winter 2017 • Dec. 4: Fairshake Birthday Bash • Dec. 5: Art Amok Slam Team • Dec. 7: Nai Br.XX & Friends SYLVIA BEARD THEATRE Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford 770-945-6762 bufordcommunitycenter.com • Dec. 16: The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra • Dec. 17: The Barefoot Movement Christmas

THE LOFT 1374 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta 404-885-1365 www.centerstage-atlanta. com/shows/the-loft • Dec. 1: Red Bull Sound Select Presents: Cupcakke • Dec. 9: Raelyn

SMITH’S OLDE BAR 1578 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta 404-875-1522 www.smithsoldebar.com • Ongoing: DJ Sky • Dec. 1: Memory Dean • Dec. 1: Antarticats, Calender Kids, Tracer Metula, Coy Coyote • Dec. 2: Wicked Animal, The Todd Prusin Experience • Dec. 2: White Animals • Dec. 2: Tastebud, Jive Revival • Dec. 3: Breaking The Chains Tour • Dec. 3: Moses Mo, Brooks Hubbard Band, Rob Agocs • Dec. 4: Lady of the Lake, Jordan Kirk, Ian Calk

THE MASQUERADE 695 North Ave. N.E., Atlanta 404-577-8178 www.masqueradeatlanta.com • Dec. 1: The Reverend Horton Heat with Junior Brown,

THE TABERNACLE 152 Luckie St., Atlanta 404-659-9022 tabernacleatl.com • Dec. 1: Luke Combs • Dec. 5: Seether

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017 • 7C

gwinnettdailypost.com

movies

‘Wonder’

film fans

EDITOR’S NOTE: Film Fans features local residents reviewing the movie of the week: “Wonder.” To be a film fan, email features@gwinnettdailypost.com.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCE

PASS/FAIL

WHO WILL LIKE THIS...

SEE IT NOW OR WAIT

OVERALL IMPRESSION

Pass: I thought this movie got everything right. The acting was very strong and enjoyable and the way the story unfolded all the way to the end captured your heart with just the right amount of sweet spots. It was also just the right length.

Fail: No real complaints, a touching film with a good message.

I really enjoyed Owen Wilson as Auggie’s dad and Julia Roberts as his mom, but Jacob Tremblay as Auggie was wonderful. He was very believable as a boy with facial differences who was going to public school for the very first time. You really believed he had all the surgeries and really felt his emotions as the other kids in the school react to him.

Fans of dramas would enjoy this as well as fans who read the book by the same name. Julia Roberts fans will definitely want to see this, too.

There isn’t any real need to see this on the big screen although we did enjoy it in the theater.

I really liked this unique movie and thought it captured the concept of being kind very well. I enjoyed watching the friendships and also thought the teacher, played by Daveed Diggs, was great.

This film is appropriate for everyone in the family and will warm your heart with moments of love and acceptance and compassion.

Pass: “Wonder” is a moving, touching, heartfelt film. It’s realistic and meaningful, deep and powerful. I have few points to criticize.

Fail: My only criticism is the slightly unrealistic nature of good and evil in this film. It supports an old, erroneous belief that the good and evil always get what’s coming to them.

Jacob Tremblay delivered the best performance to me. He captured the role of a deformed, ostracized boy struggling to fit in with style and accuracy. He also conveyed the boy’s strengths — resilience, perseverance, and connecting with others — very well.

Fans of drama, comedy and realitybased movies will enjoy this film the most. However, this is a movie everyone should see. It’s conveying of themes like empathy, love, acceptance and friendship are things everyone can connect with.

This film is not worth seeing in theaters, and I’d wait for the Blu-ray. Its main attribute is not the action or cinematography, but the dialogue and content. The depth of this film can be conveyed just as well at home as on a theater screen.

This is an excellent and impactful film.

The movie demonstrates that no matter what you’re going through, you should remember that other people are likely going through similar things. No one’s life is perfect, and everyone has some struggle in their lives, even if they hide it beneath the surface. Wonder emphasizes the importance of being good, of helping others, because often when we help others, we end up helping ourselves.

Pass: We need more movies like this. It was an emotional, uplifting and positive story and family friendly. The messages of kindness and love and appreciating people for who they are were great.

Fail: Nothing to speak of.

Jacob Tremblay was amazing as Auggie. He made me cry and really care for him. He is one to watch as he grows up.

This is definitely a movie for the whole family. The messages in it are something we all need to hear in this day and age. Kindness and compassion go a long way to making things better.

“Wonder” is a great movie and worth the price of admission for sure. We need to support more positive films like this one!

The movie made me cry and it made me laugh. It also made me think about what judgements I make about other people and how I treat people who are different from me. Take some time this holiday season to stop and see “Wonder.”

You won’t regret it.

Cindy Evans, Duluth

★★★★

Robi McGarvey, Lawrenceville

★★★★

Laurel Grams, Lawrenceville

★★★★

COMING SOON TO OWN

DISC SPOTLIGHT MICHAEL CLARK

• “Despicable Me 3” (Dec. 5): A gone-soft Gru (voice of Steve Carell) gets his “despicable” mojo back thanks to the twin he didn’t know he had. (PG)

Summer of ’42 Blu-ray (R) Movie: ★★★★ Disc: ★★★★

Like two other supermodels from the ’70s (Lauren Hutton and Marisa Berenson), former “Cover Girl” Jennifer O’Neill had a single major hit movie. In “Summer of ’42, O’Neill plays Dorothy, the wife of an Air Force pilot living in a secluded beach house in an unspecified location. She is also the object of longing affection of Hermie (Gary Grimes) who along with two other mid-teen boys spend most of their time trying to lose their virginity. The touchy nature of the plot is eerily similar to what’s dominating current headlines and there is absolutely no way any studio would consider producing this film today.

Also, regarding the MPAA rating

• “American Assassin” (Dec. 5): A CIA agent (Dylan O’Brien) works with a Cold War veteran (Michael Keaton) to stop attacks on soldiers and civilians.

(R) • “Twin Peaks: The Third Season” (Dec. 5): Many of the original cast members return in David Lynch’s recent Showtime continuation of the unique drama. (Not rated)

— when theatrically released in 1971, it was given an “R” which by modern standards is closer to “PG-13.”

Technical specs: aspect ratio: Widescreen (1.78:1/1080p), audio: English (DTS-HD MA 2.0 mono), subtitles: English.

Special features include: • Trailer (Warner Bros., $21.99)

• “Detroit” (Dec. 12): Director Kathryn Bigelow’s drama follows a security guard’s (John Boyega) experiences in the violent wake of a police raid. (R) • “Home Again” (Dec. 12): A woman’s (Reese Witherspoon) surprising new romance is threatened by the return of her estranged husband (Michael Sheen). (PG-13) • “Dunkirk” (Dec. 19): The Christopher Nolan-directed view of the World War II military operation features Harry Styles and Kenneth Branagh. (PG-13)

NOW SHOWING Recently reviewed films now playing in metro area theaters. Ratings are out of 4 stars.

Coco (PG) — 4 stars Disney/Pixar brings the Land of the Dead to life with this story surrounding Miguel, an aspiring musician, and his family on Dia de los Muertos. Set in Mexico, Miguel accidentally is transported to the Land of the Dead where he must get his family’s blessing to play music to return to the living world. Filled with beautiful animation, an authentic score and funny, clever jokes, “Coco” will entertain all generations and hopefully start a conversation about family and heritage. — Alex Tostado Mudbound (R) — 3 1/2 stars Director Dee Rees and Netflix have provided a

sobering look into the American South during and after World War II. With an ensemble cast that includes a wonderful Mary J. Blige in her debut, “Mudbound” tells the story of two families: one of the white landlords and the other, black tenant farmers.

Both have members fighting in and returning from Europe. The two families’ stories come together to form an honest, gritty look into 1940’s Mississippi that will certainly earn Netflix an Oscar nomination. — Kyle Dawson • Justice League (PG13) — 3 stars After four years of commercially profitable but critically panned films in its superhero stable, DC Comics’ teamup of Batman and Wonder Woman (and Superman, sort of)

with newcomers Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg is a triumph at least as good as the average Marvel Studios flick. The story’s a little thin but it’s a definite crowdpleaser. — Michael Buckelew and Khari J. Sampson

• Last Flag Flying (R) — 3 stars Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston and Laurence Fishburne put on a master class of acting in this Richard Linklater-directed tale of Vietnam War vets reuniting when one of their

sons perishes in Iraq.

Part road trip, antiwar film and “Unforgiven” remake, it teeters between being contemplative and boring but the performances save it. — KS • Thor: Ragnarok (PG13) — 3 stars Marvel’s godly hero Thor (Chris Hemsworth) returns for a third solo outing. Tons of humor — a little too much, actually — makes “Ragnarok” great fun despite a high-stakes plot where he’s stripped of his iconic hammer and cast far away from the homeland he’s sworn to defend (this time from Hela, goddess of death played by Cate Blanchett). Co-star Tessa Thompson nearly steals the movie. — KS • LBJ (R) — 4 stars Woody Harrelson turns in a very impressive per-

formance in this biopic of Lyndon Baines Johnson.

Set during the time of Johnson’s vice presidency to JFK and the aftermath of JFK’s assassination, Harrelson is able to have, according to director Rob Reiner, “the humanity and sensitivity to play all the parts of Johnson that were insecure, and he has a great sense of humor, which Johnson had.” Check out this one if you are a fan of Harrelson, history, politics or biographies. — AT • Suburbicon (R) — 3 stars Director George Clooney weaves a story of 1950s racial animus and a murder mystery in this different sort of thriller starring Matt Damon and, in dual roles, Julianne Moore.

— Michael Buckelew

8C • Friday, December 1, 2017

gwinnettdailypost.com

movies

Oldman is flawless; ‘Darkest Hour’ is not Darkest Hour (PG-13) HHHH

By Michael Clark Movie Critic

Beginning in 1986 with “Sid & Nancy,” where he played the tragic punk rocker Sid Vicious, Gary Oldman has delivered one stellar

516205-1

Gary Oldman stars as Winston Churchill in director Joe Wright’s “Darkest Hour,” a Focus Features release.

(Special Photo)

performance after another and he has now become the greatest living actor to have never won an Oscar.

This title used to belong to Paul Newman and then Al Pacino and before them Peter O’Toole who is still winless and in the ground. At least Newman and Pacino were able to lift their respective curses with per-

formances for which they should have not won.

Oldman’s resume is as rich as it is diverse. In addition to “Sid & Nancy,” Oldman has played writer Joe Orton in “Prick Up Your Ears,” the title lead in “Bram Stoker’s Dracula,” Ludwig van Beethoven in “Immortal Beloved,” fictional British spy George Smiley in “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” and many other key supporting roles including Lee Harvey Oswald in “JFK” and a sick puppy Rasta drug dealer in “True Romance.” Oldman can play anything under the sun and no one in AMPAS wants to acknowledge it.

Apart from the possibility of threetime Oscar winner Daniel Day-Lewis in

Paul Thomas Anderson’s equally uneven “Phantom Thread” winning his fourth Academy Award, there is no one is more deserving of the industry’s top prize this year than Oldman. The only thing that could torpedo his chances right now is the film itself, which is not nearly as impressive as its leading man.

Light-years better than “Churchill” from earlier this year, “Darkest Hour” covers about the same time frame — the crucial days when England was considering caving into the Nazis and tossing in the towel on WWII. All of this went down in late spring 1940, a full 18 months before the U.S. entered the war — much to Churchill’s frustrated consternation.

A fixture in Parliament since 1900, Churchill also served in World War I — one of the major subplots in “Churchill” that added greatly to that film’s meandering narrative and poor execution. In “Darkest Hour,” screenwriter Anthony McCarten and director Joe Wright (“Pride & Prejudice,” “Hanna,” “Atonement”) wisely only mention WWI and instead put the emphasis on the political infighting amongst the three bickering Parliamentary factions that eventually led to Churchill becoming prime minister.

Although Parliament had its collective panties in a bunch over Churchill’s new possible position, the power brokers behind the

scenes were unanimous with their choice (although for vastly different reasons). As portrayed by the filmmakers, these same brokers were at major odds, particularly Lord Halifax (Stephen Dillane), the heir-apparent to outgoing PM Neville Chamberlain (Ronald Pickup), who lost the confidence of everyone due to his soft position on Adolf Hitler and almost wanton willingness to surrender to Germany.

Making a nip here and a tuck there with “based on” films isn’t new and is practically expected these days, but to “manufacture” drama the way McCarten and Wright do here is inexcusable, especially for viewers knowing nothing of history going in. As with “Churchill,” “Darkest Hour” includes a handful of scenes with Churchill’s wife, Clementine (Kristin Scott Thomas), and his secretary, Elizabeth Layton (Lily James) — the two most important women in his life — then does little to fully flesh them out.

Even with the many narrative hiccups and iffy factual choices, Oldman’s performance is flawless.

Virtually unrecognizable under pounds of latex, prosthetics and wigs, Oldman doesn’t do an impression of Churchill as much as he channels him.

Portrayed over 200 times previously in TV and film, Churchill is easy to mimic and caricature, and for many audiences that’s more than enough.

In the first scene, Churchill is seen eating

breakfast in bed, smoking a cigar, downing a quart of brandy and barking out orders at Layton with such force she leaves the room in a heap. For lunch, he has a bottle of champagne, and when given an audience with King George VI (Ben Mendelsohn) to formally confirm him as prime minister, Churchill does so with the absolute minimum required amount of protocol. He isn’t rude to the king but he doesn’t kowtow or genuflect to him either.

This grand and complicated man was a force of nature and made things happen around him through sheer will. A later scene with Churchill on a train with regular citizens might be the highlight of the film. He talks to them and more importantly he listens when they respond.

People loved, respected and admired Churchill. He gave them hope and assurance and they gave him further inspiration. Oldman lends his Churchill an approachability never seen before and does so without appearing to ever break a sweat.

It took President Franklin Roosevelt and the U.S. to help Churchill win the war but Churchill — all alone against crushingly high odds and petulant naysayers — didn’t lose the war first. That is much more difficult. He would be quite happy to see himself portrayed the way Oldman does here — warts and all.

“Darkest Hour” opens in Atlanta on Friday, Dec. 8.

(Focus Features)