December 23, 2016 — Gwinnett Daily Post

ON THE RIGHT FOOT Decision to stick with Tech paying off for Shiloh’s Okogie • Sports, 1B

MUSICAL CHEER, 3C

Banks & Shane, others to perform for holidays

Gwinnett Daily Post FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

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Vol. 47, No. 59

Officer, wife cover lunch debts at high school

BY CAILIN O’BRIEN cailin.obrien@gwinnettdailypost.com

A Gwinnett Sheriff’s Corporal and his wife sparked a national holiday story by paying off delinquent lunch accounts at a local high school.

But Cpl. Matt Stoner and his wife Gabriela Stoner weren’t looking for attention when they decided to help out students behind on lunch payments at Central Gwinnett High School.

“They were really shocked and a little horrified that this was going to be something that people were going to hear about,” Gwinnett Sheriff Dep. Shannon Volkodav said.

She said the family made the decision to create a family memory by helping others this year instead of buying Christmas presents. Gabriela came up with the idea of paying off accounts for students who have been struggling to afford school lunches.

She looked up the Gwinnett County schools with the highest number of delinquent lunch accounts and realized Central Gwinnett High School in Lawrenceville had the biggest problem.

“The fact that she really went online and researched speaks volumes,” Volkodav said.

Volkodav said Central Gwinnett’s cafeteria manager was at first confused when Gabriela came in asking to “pay off the delinquent accounts.”

“She said, ‘It sounds like you want to pay off the whole school’s accounts,’” Volkodav said. “‘Which account do you want to pay off?’”

But Gabriela and her family did intend to take care of the entire school’s delinquent accounts. It cost $280 and some media reports suggest their action helped anywhere between 100 and 150 students.

In most cases, students with delinquent accounts can’t receive full school lunches until their accounts are paid off. Instead, they get a peanutbutter and jelly sandwich and some water when they come through the cafeteria line, Volkodav said.

See DEBTS, Page 7A

Lawrenceville residents Bryan and Tara Adamczyk decorate their home each year to solicit donations for Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen.

They put 65 inflatables and thousands of lights up in their yard and on their house this year, and visitors are invited to walk through the display. (Staff Photos: Curt Yeomans)

Spirit on display

Local holiday lights raise awareness, money for pet shelter

BY CURT YEOMANS

MORE ONLINE

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Bryan and Tara Adamczyk do a big holiday display, called ‘Christmas on Amberwood,’ at their home every year to raise awareness and money for Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen. Visitors are invited to walk through the display and leave money in a donation drop box.

Visit gwinnettdailypost.com for more photos of the display.

Bryan and Tara Adamczyk can’t help themselves when it comes to Christmas lights and decorations.

They started putting up a display at their home on Amberwood Drive between Lawrenceville and Lilburn eight years ago when they only a few pieces to include in it. As the years progressed, however, they added more and more pieces.

Now their house is hard to miss with dozens of inflatable

light up figures and so many lights they’ve lost count of how many there actually are. In fact, the display, now formally called “Christmas on Amberwood,” has become a local attraction during the holidays with families stopping by to walk through the scene.

“It’s getting bigger and bigger every year,” Bryan Adamczyk

See DISPLAY, Page 7A

HOLIDAY PHILANTHROPY

Keeping the reason in the season

Tyrese Gibson brings Local groups partner to serve dinner to moms, kids in need charity drive to Norcross ment and

BY ERIKA WELLS

BY CAILIN O’BRIEN

cailin.obrien @gwinnettdailypost.com

Crystal Bowden couldn’t have been more grateful for the holiday meal she ate with her 18-month-old son on her lap Thursday evening.

“I love the fact that people reach out to others who they don’t even know,” she said.

a guest appearance

by Gibson, Deserving families most popreceived donations of ular for toys, clothes, blankets and his roles much more at a charity in the Tyrese event host by entertainer “The Fast Gibson Tyrese Gibson and the city and the of Norcross on Thursday. Furious” film franchise.

Everyone gathered at an The faith-based Norevent space at Norcross cross Cooperative Ministries selected several fami- First United Methodist lies in need to be treated See CHARITY, Page 7A to food, gifts, entertain-

erika.wells @gwinnettdailypost.com

MORE ONLINE Visit gwinnettdailypost.com for photos from the dinner.

Crystal and her son, Jahir, live at the Home of Hope, a transitional shelter for young mothers and their children in Buford. The meal she was enjoying came about as a partnership between Earth’s Angels founder Hanan Waite serves dinners to residents of the Home of Hope shelter in Buford on

See ANGELS, Page 7A Thursday. (Staff Photo: Cailin O’Brien)

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Officials offer tips to avoid season’s hazards

County agrees to partnership on Maxwell High fire tower

BY CAILIN O’BRIEN

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

rapidly and can fill a home with “superheated air and toxic gases.”

He suggested selecting a fresh tree that’s not dry enough to easily catch fire.

Look for needles that don’t break easily and a trunk sticky with sap.

“A dry tree can be identified by bouncing the trunk on the ground,” he said. “If a considerable amount of needles fall, the tree is dried and is likely a fire hazard.”

But even the freshest tree can become a hazard if it is decorated with faulty lights. Andrew Vickery from Georgia Power said decorators should be sure to check lights to make sure no wires are frayed. He also said to make sure not to overload

cailin.obrien @gwinnettdailypost.com

Holiday traditions make this time of year special.

But they can also make it uniquely dangerous, posing the risk of fires, electrical malfunctions and theft.

Gwinnett County Fire Captain Tommy Rutledge said the possiblity of a home fire increases with holiday decor.

“During the holidays, the fire loading inside a typical single- or multifamily dwelling increases,” he said in a press release.

A Christmas tree — real or fake — can add to that fire potential. Rutledge said a tree that catches fire burns

BY CURT YEOMANS

fighters,” Fire Chief Casey Snyder said in a statement.

“And the central location makes it ideal for routine Students at Maxwell firefighter training.”

High School of TechnolThe purpose of the fire ogy will soon get a real tower is to give students taste of what it’s like to and firefighters a place fight a towering inferno. to practice firefighting, Gwinnett County comsearch and rescue, emermissioners approved an gency medical care and intergovernmental agreeladder placement in a ment with the Gwinnett simulation of a burning County Board of Educamultistory building. Fire tion to build a fire tower crews from Station 20 help at the school, which offers the students with their fire service and emereducation on a regular gency medical service basis, according to county courses. Gwinnett County officials. government will pay up The county and the to $530,000 in SPLOST school system are expectfunds on the tower, and the ed to set a project timeline school system will pay the for the tower’s construcrest. tion and will share mainte“We’re excited by this nance responsibilities. partnership that will ben“The fire tower is an inefit both students and fire- credible learning tool that

outlets and to keep an eye on lights whenever possible.

“It’s a good idea to use timers so decorations are in use only when people are at home or awake,” Vickery said.

Gwinnett Police Department Cpl. Michele Pihera said timers on lights can also come in handy to deter thieves during holiday travel.

“Use a few lights on or purchase outlet timers to turn on your lights for you,” she said in an email, adding that the lights can be found at home improvement stores.

She also suggested asking neighbors to keep an eye on the property, parking a vehicle outside the house and not posting details on social media during holiday travel.

will allow us to sharpen and hone the skills of our students as they enter the field,” Maxwell Principal Jeff Hall said in a statement. “The tower is multistory and provides the opportunity for students to take part in activities such as ladder training, zero vision training and rescue and recovery training.

“In addition, I am excited about the joint and cross-curriculum activities we can create between our Fire Services, Law and Justice, Emergency Medical Responder and Healthcare Science programs. I have discussed with our teachers how we can create a crisis situation within the fire tower building that requires all four of those programs to work together to resolve the situation.”

Suwanee pastor, professor receives White House honor

BY KEITH FARNER keith.farner @gwinnettdailypost.com

457922-4

A Suwanee pastor is set to be honored by the White House with the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Apostle Jamie Pleasant, senior pastor of New Zion Christian Church, will be honored for his work educating young people and church members in the areas of leadership, economic development and Christian principles.

The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award is for those who contribute more than 4,000 hours of service in their lifetime. Recipients will receive a personalized certificate, an official pin, medallion or coin and a congratulatory letter from President Obama. Pleasant will receive his letter and pin during the church’s

Watch Night service at 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. The event is Jamie open to the Pleasant public.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes United States citizens and lawfully admitted, permanent residents of the United States who have achieved the required number of hours of service over a 12-month time period or cumulative hours over the course of a lifetime.

Pleasant, a marketing professor at Clark Atlanta University, is involved in programs such as the Financial Literacy Academy For Youth, where youth from the ages of 13-19 attend 12-week classes on

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financial money management principles. At the end of 12 weeks, they receive a “personal finance” certificate of achievement.

Other ministries he has pioneered include The Wealth Builders Investment Club, which educates and allows members to actively invest in the stock market, along with the Institute of Entrepreneurship, where participants earn a certificate in entrepreneurship after three months of comprehensive training in all aspects of starting and owning a successful competitive business. The main goal and purpose of IOE is that each year one of the trained businesses will be awarded up to $10,000 start-up money to ensure financial success.

Pleasant started New Zion Christian Church in 1995. He is the first African-American to graduate with a doctorate in business management from Georgia Tech. The South Carolina native received undergraduate degrees from Benedict College and Clemson University, where he played football.

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Friday, december 23, 2016 • 3a

gwinnettdailypost.com

Ex-Falcon jailed in probation violation

By Cailin o’Brien

sentenced to 12 months probation Former Falcon star Jamal Jan. 12 Anderson is back in the after he Gwinnett County Dentenparked a tion Center.

Cadillac Jamal Anderson, 44, was arSUV on Anderson rested Monday after he Interstate violated his probation, ac85 and fell asleep behind cording to Gwinnett County the wheel in November of jail records. He received 2014, according to a past probation last January when Daily Post article. he pleaded guilty to DUI. His probation stipulated The ex-running back that he was to complete 40 known for his “Dirty Bird” hours of community service touchdown celebration was and was to avoid drugs and cailin.obrien @gwinnettdailypost.com

Gwinnett Tech graduates 12 in credit union program

By Keith Farner keith.farner @gwinnettdailypost.com

alcohol.

Anderson was also accused of exposing himself in an apparent drunken stupor at a QuikTrip in Suwannee Dec. 15. The store clerk declined to press charges, so he wasn’t arrested for the incident.

Anderson played for the Falcons from 1994 to 2001.

He led the team’s surprising Super Bowl run in 1998.

He was also arrested on DUI charges in DeKalb County in 2012, but the charge was reduced to reckless driving.

Peach State Federal Credit Union and Gwinnett Technical College recently held a graduation for a custom-designed leadership class to emphasize the values and goals of the credit union.

Twelve employees chosen by Peach State recently graduated from the Leadership Academy that focused on excellence, team work and integrity through classes

on topics such as listening skills, dealing with difficult people and business ethics. This was the second group to complete the program.

Another group of handpicked employees will begin this specialized training in January.

After 12 months of classes at Gwinnett Tech, the group has formed a new network of resources, Peach State Federal Credit Union President/CEO, Marshall Boutwell, told the graduates.

The graduates plan to

meet regularly to discuss real-world applications of the topics presented in the Leadership Academy program.

“This program is invaluable to the growth of our employees personally and professionally,” Boutwell said in a press release. “It not only enhances the quality of their work, but our service to our members. By improving our internal culture it allows us to continually improve the service we deliver to our members. Everyone wins.”

Gwinnett Prado site added to Venture Drive overlay area

By Curt yeomans

curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

The Venture Drive Redevelopment Overlay District is only a few months old, but it’s already grown and jumped across Pleasant Hill Road to include a major proposed redevelopment project. Gwinnett County commissioners approved the expansion, which adds the catty-cornered block that houses the Gwinnett Prado site, on Tuesday.

“We’ve had a property owner approach about potentially utilizing the

The GW Supermarket is one of the few remaining tenants in the Gwinnett Prado shopping center near Gwinnett Place Mall. The shopping center was added to the Venture Drive Redevelopment Overlay District to aid plans to redevelop the site. (File Photo)

overlay district requirements to do a mixed-use development,” county planning manager Jerry

Oberholtzer told commissioners. “As we’re still looking for that first development showcase

piece for the overlay district, the county thought it would be prudent to move forward with expansion of this overlay district to hopefully get that first project going.”

That project in question is the proposed redevelopment of the 29-year-old, 32-acre Gwinnett Prado site.

The aging strip center, which is largely vacant, was purchased earlier this year with plans to revitalize it with a denser layout that includes new residential properties and green space.

Some of the existing retail space, namely the

building that houses GW Supermarket, is expected to remain in the redeveloped property.

Officials with the county’s planning department and the Gwinnett Place Community Improvement District have pointed to the addition of the property to the overlay district as a new tool that the Prado’s new owners can use in their redevelopment efforts.

The overlay district’s guidelines were designed to encourage denser and taller urban redevelopment projects, with property owners given carte blanche to build

structures as tall as they want to make them.

Matt Reeves, the attorney for the Prado’s new owners, made sure commissioners heard his client’s commitment to joining the district before the vote was taken.

“They have requested to be added and in examining that, the planning staff and Planning Commission recommended adding the whole block of Pleasant Hill, Old Norcross and Satellite boulevard,” Reeves said.

“So my client would respectfully ask you to approve the addition of their block.”

Poinsettias simple way to add interest, color to holiday decor Many plants are used for holiday decorations, but the most famous and wellknown are the poinsettias.

They have many uses, such as tabletop displays, over fireplaces, in offices, on shelves and even some churches surround their altars with the plants during the holidays.

The “flowers” on poinsettias are bracts, which are modified leaves.

The actual flowers are the small ones that are surrounded by the bracts, which evolved to attract insects to the flowers for pollination. Selective breeding of the plant has yielded ones with bracts

Gardening in Gwinnett

to Mexico and were first introduced into the United States by Mr. Joe Poinsett, the first American ambassador to Mexico, in 1825.

He had it displayed in a botanical garden in Philadelphia. A local florist and nurseryman saw the potential of the plant and named it after Mr. Poinsett.

Tim Daly The poinsettias need to be placed in a location that are white, pink, peach, receiving at least six hours marbled and speckled. of bright light every day.

The variety Prestige is the Avoid direct sunlight since most popular and widely it can cause the color of sold type due to its bright the bracts to fade. Never red bracts and stronger allow any part of the plant branches that are less to touch cold window likely to break. panes which could injure The plants are native them. Also, keep the plants

out of areas that are in a cold draft, exposed to excessive heat, or are near an appliance, fireplace or ventilating duct.

To maintain the bracts from fading, the daytime temperature should not be more than 70 degrees, and the plants need to be kept away from drafts, excessive heat or dry air from appliances, fireplaces or ventilating ducts. Temperatures that drop below 50 degrees can cause chilling injuries leading to premature leaf drop.

Poinsettias require moderately moist soil. Water the pots thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch.

CITY OF REST HAVEN Schedule of Expenditures of Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax 2005 ISSUE for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016 Original Estimated Cost

Description Roads, Streets & Bridges

Current Estimated Cost

Prior Years Expenditures/ Transfers

Total Expenditures/ Transfers

Current Years Expenditures/ Transfers

$

565,849

$

565,849

$

565,849

$

0

$

565,849

$

565,849

$

565,849

$

565,849

$

0

$

565,849

The City of Rest Haven entered into an intergovernmental agreement with Gwinnett County for the use and distribution of the proceeds generated by the 2005 special purpose local option sales tax referendum. Per O.C.G.A. 48-8-122, the City is required to issue an annual report of original estimated cost, current estimated cost, prior years exenditures, current year expenditures, and the total amount expended for each project listed in the resolution. As of June 30, 2016, the City of Rest Haven had not expended any funds, but transferred funds to the City of Buford through an intergovernmental agreement.

2009 ISSUE There were no expenditures for the 2009 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax for fiscal year ended 06/30/2016 for the City of Rest Haven.

2014 ISSUE There were no expenditures for the 2014 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax for fiscal year ended 06/30/2016 for the City of Rest Haven.

CITY OF BUFORD Schedule of Expenditures of Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax

Original Estimated Cost

Roads, Streets & Bridges

$

Recreational Facilities

$

1,000,000

Parking Facilities Administrative Facilities

5,579,062

Current Estimated Cost 6,026,892

Prior Years Expenditures $

1,000,000

250,000

6,026,892

Current Years Expenditures $

0

1,000,000

250,000

Total Expenditures $

0

250,000

6,026,892 1,000,000

0

250,000

$

1,000,000

$

1,000,000

$

1,000,000

$

0

$

1,000,000

$

7,829,062

$

8,276,892

$

8,276,892

$

0

$

8,276,892

2009 ISSUE for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016 Original Estimated Cost

Description Roads, Streets & Bridges

$

Recreational Facilities Water and Sewer Expansion

4,824,094

Current Estimated Cost $

1,357,465

4,824,094

Prior Years Expenditures $

1,357,465

1,769,954

Current Years Expenditures $

1,200,000

69,326

Total Expenditures $

0

1,839,280 1,200,000

$

1,618,824

$

1,618,824

$

0

$

0

$

0

$

7,800,383

$

7,800,383

$

2,969,954

$

69,326

$

3,039,280

2014 ISSUE for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016 There was no 2014 SPLOST activity for the fiscal year ended 06/30/2016.

The City of Buford entered into an intergovernmental agreement with Gwinnett County for the use and distribution of the proceeds generated by the 2005, 2009 & 2014 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax referendum. Per O.C.G.A. 48-8-122, the City is required to issue an annual report of original estimated cost, current estimated cost, prior years exenditures, current year expenditures, and the total amount expended for each project listed in the resolution. As of June 30, 2016, the City of Buford had expended the funds shown above. 461169-1

temperatures in the fall.

Poinsettias can be made to flower the following Christmas, although this is somewhat difficult for the homeowner. Being short-day plants, they require a long continuous dark period each night for the colorful bracts to form.

Beginning around the first of October, the plants need 14 hours of darkness every night. This can be accomplished by putting them in a closet or covering them with a box or other material. They also need to receive six to eight hours of bright sunlight daily.

The plants will begin to produce the colorful bracts in November or December, depending on the variety and response time.

Poinsettias make a great holiday decoration. They will provide color for the indoors if given the appropriate care. Consider getting a few for your home.

Timothy Daly is a County Extension Agent with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, Gwinnett County. He can be reached at 678-3774011 or tdaly@uga.edu.

Hotel hires 2 business travel sales managers From staFF reports

2005 ISSUE for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016 Description

Apply enough supplemental water to where it drains from the bottom of the pot.

Avoid fertilization when the plant is in bloom.

Poinsettias are occasionally troubled by insect pests, especially whiteflies and mealybugs. You can control these pests by the application of insecticidal soaps or in some cases, just remove them by washing the infested plant parts.

In the spring, after the colorful bracts have faded, prune the plant back to about eight inches in height. The plant will look bare after pruning; however, new leaves will emerge up and down the stem from the nodes. Keep the plant near a sunny window and continue to water it regularly. Once the night temperature remains above 50 degrees, poinsettias can be taken outside. Fertilize the plant once a month during the spring, summer and fall with 10-10-10 fertilizer. With proper water and fertilizers, they can grow as high as 5 feet.

Bring them back indoors with the onset of cooler

Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta in Duluth recently hired two professionals to help on site with business travel planning.

Lina Whitaker and Caroline Eubanks are the new business travel sales managers at the hotel located at 1775 Pleasant Hill Road, the company announced Dec. 16.

Whitaker and Eubanks will work with local companies to create positive relationships to meet the needs of corporate travelers.

Whitaker, senior business travel manager, has over seven years of hospitality and tourism experience including several years with Hilton Hotels Worldwide and Marriott.

She received her bachelor’s degree in arts administration with a minor in business management from

the University of Kentucky and a hotel revenue management certificaLina tion from Whitaker Cornell University.

Eubanks, business travel sales manager, offers nearly four Caroline years of Eubanks experience in developing new accounts from medical to professional service sectors.

She completed her bachelor’s degree in marketing at Florida State University.

She was most recently employed with American Liberty Hospitality as senior sales manager in Houston.

4A • FridAy, december 23, 2016 To Your Good Health

Keith Roach

Evidence does not back some treatments for cancer Dear Dr. rOaCH: I am a middle-aged woman, who has just today, as a result of a breast biopsy, been diagnosed with breast cancer (ductal carcinoma).

Although I haven’t yet seen the surgeon, I know that chemotherapy will be offered to me after surgery.

I know chemotherapy is one of the usual treatments for most kinds of cancer, but I also know that it is very toxic, destroying some healthy cells along with the cancerous cells, and that it can cause other cancers to develop months or even years after a person has been exposed to it. I personally know a couple of people who have refused chemotherapy and instead chosen to see a naturopathic physician.

They obtained successful treatment from alternative methods, without harm to the healthy cells in the body and, after many years, remain cancer-free. One of the features of this kind of treatment involves ridding the body of all toxic heavy metals. Supposedly, they contribute to the development of cancer.

Could you please advise me if this is a safe and wise alternative to consider? If so, how does a person go about locating an expert in the field of alternative medicine? I am desperate for an unbiased answer and don’t know where to turn. I will have to make a decision soon, so I would very much appreciate your opinion.

— Anon. anSWer: I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis, and would urge you to carefully consider your options, do a lot of reading and talk to your oncologist and surgeon before making any decision.

Chemotherapy may or may not be offered to you, depending on the stage of the cancer and the receptors that are on your particular tumor. You don’t have to make that choice now.

However, if it is offered, you’ll want to know your likelihood of getting rid of the cancer, both with and without the chemotherapy, and what the long-term risks are (second cancers after breast cancer treatment do happen, but may have nothing to do with the chemotherapy or radiation therapy). Chemotherapy is designed to kill cancer, not healthy cells, and over the years it is slowly getting better at doing so.

You certainly may get a long-term response without chemotherapy, and you might not get one even if you do take it. The addition of chemotherapy to a treatment plan is made only when it improves the odds, but there are no guarantees.

However, as far as “toxic heavy metals” go, there is absolutely no reliable evidence that treatment to remove them helps treat cancer or prevent recurrence. In my opinion, it is neither safe nor wise. Cancer is caused by a complex interaction between your DNA and the environment, and heavy metals are unlikely to play any meaningful part.

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Lucci (1946- ), actress; Bill Kristol (1952TODAY’S HISTORY: In 1783, George Regulate your spending.

Thursday ), political commentator; Jim Harbaugh Washington resigned as commander in Reflect on the past and Cash 3 Midday: 1-2-8 (1963- ), football player/coach; Eddie Vechief of the Continental Army. make smart choices. dder (1964- ), singer-songwriter; Hanley In 1823, the poem “A Visit From Cash 4 Midday: 0-5-6-3 PISCES (Feb. Ramirez (1983), baseball player.

St. Nicholas” (better known as “’Twas Ga. 5 Midday: 0-2-4-4-5 20-March 20) — Don't TODAY’S FACT: In 2006, an origithe Night Before Christmas”) was first reveal a surprise premanal handwritten copy of “A Visit From published anonymously in the Troy (New turely. Take time to do St. Nicholas” sold in a private sale for York) Sentinel. The poem was later atWednesday something nice for your $280,000. tributed to Clement C. Moore.

Cash 3 Midday: 2-5-8 TODAY’S SPORTS: In 1972, the In 1954, the first successful kidney peers, boss or someone Cash 3 Evening: 4-2-2 Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Oakland who can make a differtransplant was performed at Brigham Raiders, 13-7, on a bizarre last-second Hospital in Boston. ence to your status, repuCash 4 Midday: 6-6-7-7 touchdown that became known as the In 1986, the lightweight composite airtation or financial future.

Cash 4 Evening: 0-2-2-5 “Immaculate Reception.” craft Voyager completed the first nonstop ARIES (March 21-April Ga. 5 Midday: 7-9-8-4-4 TODAY’S QUOTE: “My father was flight around the globe without refueling.

19) — Keep your reacTODAY’S BIRTHDAYS: Joseph Smith very sure about certain matters pertainGa. 5 Evening: 6-1-0-9-4 tions to a minimum. If ing to the universe. To him, all good (1805-1844), religious leader; Madam Fantasy 5: 14-21-24-26-28 you say or do something things — trout as well as eternal salvaC.J. Walker (1867-1919), entrepreneur; that someone doesn't tion — come by grace and grace comes Norman Maclean (1902-1990), author; Powerball: 25-33-40-54-68, like, you will be faced by art and art does not come easy.”

— Akihito (1933), emperor of Japan; Harry Powerball: 3, Power Play: Norman Maclean, “A River Runs Through with a problem that can Shearer (1943- ), actor/comedian; Wes5X It and Other Stories” ley Clark (1944- ), Army general; Susan affect your reputation as well as your professional reader’s guide gains.

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Taking a trip or attending a cultural event that gives Dear amy: For every way. I was recover- in exactly the same ways you insight into different Ask Amy many years, my 92-yearing from a fling. He left you are demonstrating traditions will be enlightold father and I have been a six-year relationship yours: initiating getting ening. bitterly disagreeing about just after they became together, for instance, and LEO (July 23-Aug. his climbing on ladders engaged. by not making plans to 22) — Look over perand high step stools to We almost got to the move to another country. sonal papers and make change light bulbs. point where we hung You have done nothing sure your finances are in His balance is poor, out like a couple, knowwrong — you are simply order. You'll discover an and I’ve seen him almost ing each other’s friends at different points in your interesting way to imfall many times. and family. I asked him lives. I think it is great prove your home without Last week he fell backwhere this relationship that you have had the hurting your budget. Aim Amy Dickinson ward at a restaurant, hit was heading. (I know experience of being with for greater security. his head and had to go to I shouldn’t have, but I someone where you are VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. the ER for stitches. tainty: Your father is gocouldn’t help it.) feeling these wonderful 22) — Plan to have some Two days later I saw ing to die. You don’t want He replied that he refeelings and where you fun.

Decorating your him walk down the hall him to, but he will. To ally liked me. He was realize that you want to home or getting together with a tall step stool to some extent, he is choos- about to go to Burma for have a relationship. Conwith friends or peers for check the fire alarm, ing how things will go a short trip, so he said he sider this realization his a little festive cheer will which I ended up climb— by stubbornly mainwould give me an angift to you. Accept this bring you closer together. ing up and checking for taining his independent swer after the trip. After gift, and move on.

Talks will lead to adhim. wish to do as he pleases, the trip, he told me he is Dear amy: I was vancement.

Months ago my husregardless of the danger likely moving there to shocked when you told LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. band saw my father about and likely consequences. start a business with his “Heartbroken” that his 23) — Overreacting or to get on a tall step stool You have fought this friend. He said he doesn’t wife’s choice to work doing something on the to change a light fixture bitter battle with him for want a relationship with out at the gym every spur of the moment will outside and suggested we years. You could try to anyone right now. day indicated that their lead to trouble. Spendhave our contractor do it, convince him to make a I believe him, but it’s marriage was in trouble. ing, eating or drinking but my father wouldn’t list of household chores still upsetting, I have nev- Maybe this woman just too much will create a listen, so my father had so that during your visits er been with a guy who wants to get healthy! my husband, who is you can perform some of I can see a future with.

— Fit Wife difficult situation. Selfimprovement is encourprone to seizures, climb these tasks, but he doesn’t However, I also saw a lot Dear FiT: Along aged. up to fix the light fixture sound likely to comply. of red flags. He didn’t with other changes in SCORPIO (Oct. 24— putting my husband’s It’s important for you pay for the first date. this woman’s life, sudden Nov. 22) — A gift or life in danger. to realize that your father Since the third or fourth frequent gym attendance I was furious. His could trip on a rug in the dates, I always initiated and losing weight are in- offering will take you by neighbor was so conkitchen, injure himself getting together. dicators that the marriage surprise. Check out an investment that someone cerned about his getting bathing, or in countless I want to make him re- might be in trouble. suggests. Stick close to on ladders she said that if other ways. alize how uniquely comYou can contact Amy home and nurture the reshe ever saw him on one, Unless you would like patible we are. Do you Dickinson via email: lationships that are most she would call the police. to move in with him to have any suggestions? askamy@amydickinimportant to you.

He is so stubborn. How try to protect him from — J son.com. Readers may SAGITTARIUS (Nov. would you suggest I get his own impulses, I think Dear J: I wish I had send postal mail to Amy 23-Dec. 21) — Lasthim to stop this extremely you should try to let this suggestions on ways Dickinson, c/o Tribune minute paperwork and dangerous endeavor? I am go. to prove that you are Content Agency, LLC., decisions can be made so angry and I don’t want Dear amy: I am a compatible with this guy, 16650 Westgrove Drive, that will help set you up him to die.

26-year-old woman from but you’re not compatible Suite 175, Addison, TX for a better future. Take — Angry in Sausalito Hong Kong living in with this guy.

75001. You can also advantage of an opportuDear angry: London. I met this guy He is not that into you. follow her on Twitter @ nity to network. Romance Here’s what you need to through a dating app. We If he was, he would be askingamy or “like” her is encouraged. know, and this is a cerwere very compatible in demonstrating his interest on Facebook.

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Page 5 a • Friday, december 23, 2016

Comey’s bad decisions had unintended consequences WASHINGTON — What a year it has been for James Comey!

At the start of 2016, the FBI director enjoyed a reputation as a public servant of high integrity, earning bipartisan acclaim for his stewardship of the nation’s preeminent law enforcement agency.

A year later, the FBI, after a series of blows to its credibility, seems increasingly partisan. Comey has shown himself to be an inconsistent leader.

And an ugly conclusion is becoming difficult to escape: He single-handedly caused Donald Trump to win the presidency.

Doubt on that last point should have been dispelled this week, after court documents were released Tuesday that showed the justification for Comey’s decision — announced to the nation just 11 days before the election — that he was reopening his investigation into Hillary Clinton’s emails. We now know Comey’s bombshell was based on nothing: The FBI had no evidence of wrongdoing in the newly discovered emails, found on Huma Abedin’s laptop, and no reason to suspect there was anything on the laptop that the FBI hadn’t Dana already dismissed as insuffiMilbank cient to mount a prosecution.

Yet that was the flimsy basis for Comey’s letter to Congress reopening the Clinton probe. The new emails were irrelevant or redundant. But by the time Comey said, just two days before the election, that the FBI found nothing new, the damage to Clinton was done.

When an election is this close — Clinton, in the final tally, won the popular vote by 2.8 million votes — any number of factors could have shifted the outcome: Russia’s hacking, Jill Stein’s Green Party candidacy, Clinton’s weaknesses as a candidate, her ill-advised message of continuity in times that demanded populist change.

But Comey’s intervention is one thing that almost certainly changed the result. Nationwide, voters who decided in the campaign’s last week — the time when Comey’s announcement dominated the news — overwhelmingly went for Trump. Late deciders went for Trump by 17 points in Florida and Pennsylvania, by 11 points in Michigan and 29 points in Wisconsin.

I doubt Comey meant to give the presidency to Trump. All along, I maintained that he was a man of integrity. But he demonstrated poor judgment.

So protective was he of his above-the-fray reputation that his attempts to guard it caused a series of bad decisions. Ironically, his attempts at preserving his reputation were what hurt him.

In June, before Comey’s July statement on the Clinton email issue, 48 percent of Americans expressed confidence in the FBI and 16 percent lacked confidence, according to an NBC-Wall Street Journal poll. Now, six months later, 37 percent have confidence in the FBI, while 27 percent don’t — and Republicans and Democrats are almost identical in their views.

Comey’s trouble began with his announcement, on the eve of the national political conventions, that no reasonable prosecutor would bring charges against Clinton over the emails. His no-prosecution recommendation infuriated congressional Republicans. This criticism must have stung, since Comey, a former George W. Bush administration official, then took a series of actions that seemed designed to repair his reputation with Republicans.

First, he refused to join an administration statement on Oct. 7 naming Russia as the perpetrator of hacks of American political organizations. He reasoned that the FBI shouldn’t be seen as injecting itself into politics so close to an election.

Comey made a mockery of such considerations when he delivered his October Surprise later that month, defying warnings from the Justice Department and ignoring long-standing guidelines by announcing that he was reopening the Clinton probe.

It probably wasn’t done to torpedo Clinton, though that was the result. The most convincing explanation: Comey feared that already irate congressional Republicans, if they were to learn that he didn’t disclose the new discovery of Clinton emails, would have trashed his integrity.

Since the election, Comey has continued to protect his reputation — at considerable cost.

Earlier this month, news broke that the CIA had concluded Russia intervened in the election to help Trump. But FBI officials resisted joining the conclusion.

Perhaps Comey was again trying to keep his agency and himself above the fray, but the FBI’s mush helped Trump dismiss the CIA’s findings.

The matter turned into a partisan fight rather than the national-security concern it should be. After several days, and the intervention of the director of national intelligence, Comey finally acknowledged the obvious: that the FBI, too, believes the Russians tried to help Trump.

Did Comey mean to become Trump’s elector, and now his protector? Probably not. But in the end, motives count for less than outcomes. And Comey’s have been ruinous.

Follow Dana Milbank on Twitter, @Milbank.

Some thoughts about Christmas The Christmas season is chocked full of memories and fun vignettes which often bring about humility and reverence; and do we ever need more of that in our fractured world?

The following has nothing to do with the aforementioned, but have you ever wondered what Vladimir Putin is getting for Christmas? Does he even celebrate Christmas?

How does one shop for the President-elect? Does anybody care? What do sitting Presidents give the White House staff? Do the FOX girls send Christmas cards to Rupert Murdoch? Does Ted Turner eat bison for Christmas dinner? Does Dolly Parton spend Christmas in the kitchen? Does Hillary Clinton email Christmas cards?

We are keenly aware this time of the year that so many get so much; then we are sobered with the knowledge that some don’t get enough.

Like not enough to eat, which is why it is the Christmas wish here that the many who do for others at Christmas experience the most enjoyable holiday of all. They deserve it. Everybody from the food banks to the Salvation Army to cheerful individuals who give of them-

grandchildren come along.

Life is good when children enjoy themselves. Happiness is a happy family at Christmas.

Some sentimental favorites of every Christmas season: • Bing Crosby singing “White Christmas.”

• Mel Torme singing “The Loran Christmas Song.” “Chestnuts Smith roasting on an open fire ...”

Bet you are now singing along selves during the Christmas with him. Aren’t we proud season so that shut-ins, the these titles, which do not have-nots and those down on intrude on your nerves and their luck are not forgotten. tranquility, have stood the test When I recall the Christof time. mases of the past, the ones • Christmas cards from a which are the most memorable friend you have not heard from have to do with children and in years. grandchildren in the days • Neighborhood parties when they were young and filled with love and laughter. tender hearted and wore footed For years, we have been pajamas. honored with a special card Little feet thumping across at Christmas from Adele and the floor to see what Santa has Don Hall of Kansas City. left is one of the most treaWhen Adele passed away sured of memories. Little feet three years ago, Don continued hold sway at Christmas, acthe family tradition of sendcompanied by innocence and ing cards with a tree ornament modesty. The pure delight in and a holiday message. The seeing packages ripped apart, cards are created by Hallmark ribbons recklessly detached Cards. This year’s card carries and paper assaulted with a fury the story of the “The Legend of anxiousness and curiosof the first Christmas Tree ity — with a robust fire as the Lights,” and I am pleased to backdrop for Christmas morn- share it with you. If you are ing! A memory everlasting. blessed with something good, The scene is repeated when pass it on!

“One evening many centuries ago while passing through the snowy German woods, Martin Luther found himself lost. After praying for comfort and guidance, he looked up and noticed the millions of beautiful twinkling stars overhead.

“He realized that just as God had sent a star to guide the wise men that first Christmas, God would surely be there to guide his way that night.

“Upon arriving home, Luther was greeted by his family decorating their Christmas tree. He told them the story of how God’s twinkling stars had encouraged him as he tried to find his way home in the night.

“To remind them of all God’s light shining through the darkness, he took the candles from the candelabra nearby and fastened them to the branches of the tree.

“And ever since then, shining lights have adorned our beloved Christmas trees, filling our homes with the warmth and glow of the Light of the world.”

Merry Christmas!

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

I’m dreaming of a celluloid Christmas I have a confession to make.

They say it’s good for the soul. I am a Christmas movie junkie and given half a chance — which means given a few hours alone while my lovely wife, Lisa, is out shopping — I will binge watch every holly jolly ho-ho-ho tear-jerking moment that comes on my screen.

All I need is a warm fire in the fireplace, a box of Kleenex for obvious reasons, and some popcorn, freshly made party mix and plenty of Coca-Cola — and a remote control, of course, so I can jump from a snow storm in Chicago to a too-warm New England holiday to a bank run to a Scroogetype business tycoon who is cutting out holiday bonuses without warning. That’s me.

Now you know. I watch them all — many of them over and over and over.

I got started on Christmas movies at a young age, long before microwaves were invented and my mama had to pop the corn on the stove, in Wesson oil. Everything was in black-and-white, of course, and the language, along with the story line, in each film we watched was as pure as the driven snow that we always prayed for at Christmas but never received.

“Going My Way” was one of my favorites, starring Bing Crosby and Barry Fitzgerald.

I’m not sure why it was a

Nowadays there are stations that start airing made-fortelevision movies around Labor Day, and if one had a wife that would offer her blessings, which I don’t, one could watch 24-7 throughout the Advent season. I did watch a couple of made-for-TV films Darrell this year. The one Dolly Parton Huckaby did in Covington was amazing, and I taped it so I can watch Christmas movie, except for it over and over again. I also the scene where Der Bingle watched one called “Christmas was teaching the incorrigible Reunion,” but that was just to boys in his parish choir to sing look at Denise Richards for “Silent Night.” two hours straight, without “Miracle on 34th Street” commercial interruption. was another must-see movie Primarily, on binge days, I of the season. I was familiar stick with the tried-and-true with the Macy’s Thanksgivclassics. I watched “Planes, ing Day parade, which was Trains and Automobiles” featured in the movie, and was Thanksgiving night and still very familiar with kids who felt sorry for the John Candy didn’t believe in Santa Claus character because he had no— although I was never one of where to be for the holiday. It’s them. My favorite part of the hard to feel sorry for any charmovie was when the people acter played by Steve Martin, from the post office came into no matter the circumstances. I the courtroom and dumped always see him with a fake arsack after sack of mail on the row sticking through his head, judge’s desk to prove that and it ruins the mood.

Santa was real.

Believe it or not, I am not We did watch “It’s a a fan of “A Christmas Story.”

Wonderful Life,” but honesty I guess you either are or you compels me to admit that I aren’t. I’d love to have one of didn’t really understand the those lamps and a Red Ryder whole theme when I was a kid. BB gun, but Ralphie strikes “White Christmas” was one of me as a wimp. He wouldn’t our favorites, and I still get a have lasted a day in Porterdale bit teary-eyed at the end when in the 1950s, I can tell you the soldiers sing “We’ll follow that. I do watch “Home Alone” the old boy … ” every year — I and II. Don-

ald Trump played himself in “Home Alone II,” by the way, and did you know that Joe Pesci used to hang out with Frankie Valli and the other Jersey Boys before they were a group. It’s true. Look that up in your Funk and Wagnall.

I faithfully watch “A Charlie Brown Christmas” each year and now that Henley is allowed to watch TV we have checked out “Mickey’s Christmas,” “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman.” And I might watch some version of “A Christmas Carol” before Santa gets here. And, yes, I love “Ernest Saves Christmas.”

But the one movie that is the highlight of the season for me and mine is, without question, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” There is more Clark Griswold in me than I would ever care to admit, although I guess I just admitted it. But sure ‘nuff, y’all. There is a LOT of Clark Griswold in me. And who doesn’t have someone a little like Cousin Eddie in their family? And how long did it take you to realize that Clark’s son, Russ, grew up to be Leonard on “Big Bang Theory?”

I’ve seen them all this year — some more than once — so I guess we can have us a Christmas.

I hope yours is merry and bright.

6A • FridAy, december 23, 2016

gwinnettdailypost.com

world&nation world Fingerprints link Berlin attack suspect to truck It’s looking increasingly likely that the main suspect in the Berlin Christmas market attack, Anis Amri, was the attacker, Germany’s interior minister said Thursday.

His fingerprints were found in the cabin of the truck that plowed into the market Monday, leaving 12 people dead and 48 injured, Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere told a news conference.

“There are additional indications which support this,” he said. “This is why it’s so important that the manhunt is successful.”

A massive search is underway for Amri, 24, who is considered violent and believed to be armed.

Syria takes control of Aleppo

By Holly yan anD emanuella gRinBeRg anD yousuf Basil CNN

The Syrian regime says it has taken full control of Aleppo, state-run media announced Thursday, marking a major turning point in the country’s five-year civil war.

Government forces and their allies now control eastern Aleppo, ending more than four years of rebel rule there.

The battle came from both the ground and sky.

President Bashar al-Assad’s troops and supporting militias entered eastern Aleppo by ground in late November. The regime and Russia — its most powerful ally — have decimated neighborhoods with airstrikes.

An estimated 400,000 Syrians have been killed and Egypt delays vote more than 4.8 million have on settlements fled the country since the Egypt is delaying a war began in 2011, accordshowdown vote at the ing to the United Nations.

U.N. Security Council on Neither hospitals nor a resolution condemning civilians are immune. In Israeli settlement activmany cases, children are ity after pressure from the victim to such bombings.

Israelis, a Western official The government already said Thursday, putting off a controls western Aleppo. potential standoff between Now regime control of the the U.S. and Israel and east spells the end of the prompting what some ana- rebels’ last urban stronglysts called unprecedented hold, puts the government interference from the U.S. back in control of the president-elect. country’s four major cities The resolution had and make an opposition drawn condemnations government less likely. from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President-elect Donald Trump, who called on the White House to veto it.

Obama is ending Having a President-elect weigh in to influence U.S. program used policy before he has taken to track Muslims office is highly unusual, The Obama administraanalysts said.

Trump transition spokes- tion said Thursday that man Jason Miller said that it was ending a dormant the transition team gave the program that once was used White House a heads up to track mostly Arab and before it sent the statement Muslim men. out this morning about the “The Department of Security Council vote.

Homeland Security is removing outdated regulations Dinosaur fossils pertaining to the National Security Entry-Exit Regisyield odd findings tration Systems program, A group of 13 dinosaurs with an immediate effective that died in a mud pit in date,” Neema Hakim, a deChina has yielded an unpartment spokesman said. precedented discovery.

The program was susThe 154 million-yearpended in 2011. Hakim said old limusaurus had tiny, the “intervening years have sharp teeth as a hatchling shown that NSEERS is not that it gradually lost as it only obsolete, but that its grew up, according to new use would divert limited perresearch published in the sonnel and resources from journal Current Biology on more effective measures.”

Thursday.

The finding is a first for U.S. economy the fossil record and may grew 3.5 percent shed light on why birds have beaks and not teeth. in third quarter The group ranged from babies to adults and showed America gained a little a pattern of tooth loss over more momentum than pretime. The fossilized skelviously thought. etons were found in mysteThe U.S. economy grew rious death pits in Xinjiang 3.5 percent in the third in the far west of China. quarter — July to Septem“At first we thought they ber — compared to the were different dinosaurs same time a year ago, the — one with teeth and one Commerce Department without and we started to reported Thursday. study them separately,” It’s the best quarter of said Wang Shuo, a cogrowth in two years. The author of the study and an first estimate, published in evolutionary biologist at October, had the economy Capital Normal University growing at 2.9 percent in in Beijing. the third quarter.

“But they were largely It was also the last look identical and we found sol- at the economy’s perforid evidence that teeth were mance in the months leadlost. There were empty ing up to the election, when tooth sockets in their jaw President-elect Donald bones,” he added.

Trump criticized America’s — From wire reports slow growth on the cam-

nation

people Pitt: Jolie has no ‘self-regulating mechanism’

Brad Pitt filed additional court documents Thursday in an ongoing effort to seal his divorce proceedings with Angelina Jolie.

In the documents obtained by CNN, Pitt alleges that his estranged wife is “determined to ignore even agreed upon standards relating to the children’s best interest.”

Pitt asserts Jolie has “no self-regulating mechanism” when it comes to preventing sensitive information from going public — citing the names of therapists working with the family that were made public in Jolie’s previous court filings.

Thursday’s developments As the Syrian army continues to fight its way through the old city of Aleppo, the tide of come two weeks after Pitt was denied a request for an those fleeing for their lives has become a raging flood, an avalanche. (CNN) emergency hearing to seal It’s also a major setback summer of 2012, managcivil war and has taken over the divorce documents. for activists who have long ing to stave off the betterswaths of Syria. sought an end to four deequipped Syrian military.

There are four main Oprah’s 40-pound cades of Assad family rule. They gained popular supfactions of fighting groups loss big gain for In 2011, Assad’s forces port in urban areas. throughout the country: launched a violent crackBut as pro-government Kurdish forces, ISIS, other Weight Watchers down on activists who were forces ramped up attacks, opposition and the Assad Oprah Winfrey revealed demanding more economic eastern Aleppo became the regime. prosperity, political freewretched epicenter of the The war triggered one of this week that she lost more than 40 pounds, and dom and civil liberties. civil war. Hundreds of thou- the greatest humanitarian she did it using one of the The move sparked a sands of residents fled the crises since World War II. most popular weight loss nationwide uprising and “apocalyptic” violence.

While millions fled the programs out there: Weight opposition members took The regime claims it is country and others were Watchers. up arms. Members of the fighting “terrorists” — long internally displaced, those In a story first published military joined the cause, before terror groups such who remained suffered the on People magazine’s defecting and becoming as ISIS started entering effects of lack of access to website, Oprah said she’s rebels. the fray. Eventually, ISIS the most basic needs — still eating the tacos and The rebels took over started taking advantage of food, water and access to pasta that she loves, and she eastern Aleppo in the instability wrought by the health care. doesn’t feel deprived following the Weight Watchers system. Earlier, she told priorities.

“In her position, Conway People that she’s exercising more, striving to take at will continue her role as a least 10,000 steps a day. close adviser to the Presi“Weight Watchers is dent and will work with senior leadership to effective- easier than any other proly message and execute the gram I’ve ever been on. It’s Administration’s legislative a lifestyle, a way of eating and a way of living that’s priorities and actions,” the so freeing. You never feel Trump transition said in a like you are on a diet, and it statement.

Conway’s role would be works,” Oprah, 62, said in a release about a new Weight similar to Karen Hughes’ position in the Bush 43 ad- Watchers’ ad campaign.

The company saw a ministration — placing her bump earlier when Oprah close to the President, and purchased a stake in the handing her responsibility company — she’s the President Barack Obama’s administration said Thursday for much of the big-picture third largest shareholder in that it will end a registry that was used to track primarily communication duties for Arab and Muslim men. (CNN) Weight Watchers and has the White House, a transition source told CNN’s Jim a stake worth about $77 million — and as she conmented via executive action Acosta. paign trail. tinued to share her weight or as part of a sweeping tax It’s also closer to the 4 percent growth that Trump reform package they would Report: Snowden loss successes. After the announcement this week of push through Congress. has promised for the keeps contact Oprah’s weight loss mileIncoming White House economy. stone and the company’s Chief of Staff Reince Prie- with Russian Despite the improved new ad campaign, Weight bus floated a 5 percent tariff intelligence reading in the quarter, it Watchers shares jumped 17 on imports in meetings with won’t move the needle Edward Snowden has percent. key Washington players much for all of 2016. The last week, according to two been in contact with RusU.S. economy grew at a sources who represent busi- sian intelligence officials sluggish pace in the first Wahlberg wants since arriving in Russia in ness interests in Washinghalf of the year, averag‘Patriots Day’ to 2013, according to a new ton. But the senior transiing 1.1 percent, and many report from Congress. tion official who spoke to give people hope economists still forecast “Since Snowden’s arrival around 2 percent growth for CNN on Thursday on the Mark Wahlberg’s new condition of anonymity said in Moscow, he has had, and the entire year. movie, “Patriots Day,” is continues to have, contact the higher figure is now in The Federal Reserve about a tragedy, the Boston with Russian intelligence sees the economy growing play.

Marathon bombing. But services,” the 33-page around 2 percent for the next few years.

Conway lands top report, issued Thursday by he’s hoping people will leave the theater encourthe bipartisan House PerWhite House job manent Select Committee aged.

Trump team President-elect Don“I want people to feel on Intelligence, said. floats 10 percent ald Trump tapped former hopeful (after watching Snowden, the former this film),” Wahlberg told National Security Agency tariff on imports campaign manager KelCNN in a recent interview. lyanne Conway as “councontractor who leaked President-elect Donald selor to the president,” the volumes of information on “And encouraged that, you Trump’s transition team know, love will always win presidential transition team American intelligence and and we’ll come together is discussing a proposal to announced Thursday morn- surveillance operations to and be victorious.” impose tariffs as high as 10 ing. the media, settled in MosThe film, directed by percent on U.S. imports, acThe transition team said cow after initially traveling Peter Berg, follows the cording to multiple sources. Conway, the first female to Hong Kong following lives of several victims and A senior Trump transicampaign manager to win a his 2013 public disclosure police officers on the day tion official said Thursday presidential race, will work of classified information. of the 2013 bombing and the team is mulling up to a with White House senior The Russian government 10 percent tariff aimed at leadership on messaging granted asylum to Snowden the four-day-long manhunt that ensued. spurring U.S. manufacturand to help execute the shortly thereafter.

— From wire reports ing, which could be imple- administration’s legislative — From wire reports

Merriam-Webster declares ‘surreal’ 2016’s word of the year

By Renita D.young Reuters

CHICAGO — In a word, 2016 was “surreal.”

“Surreal,” meaning “marked by the intense irrational reality of a dream” was looked up so much by online users that MerriamWebster on Monday dubbed it the 2016 word of the year.

“Surreal” joined the Oxford English Dictionary’s “post-truth” and Dictionary.com’s “xenopho-

cant spike this year following the U.S. presidential election in November, Sokolowski said. bia” as top words of the year.

Searches for the word first Merriam-Webster began track- surged after the Brussels attack ing dictionary lookup trends in in March and then again in July 1996, the same year the dicafter the Bastille Day massacre tionary first landed online. The in Nice, France, and a coup atpublisher said it ranks the word tempt in Turkey. based off two criteria: a sigThe word was first defined in nificant year-over-year increase a Merriam-Webster dictionary in in lookups online and a high 1967 and derives from the Survolume of lookups. realism artistic movement of the “Surreal” had its most signifi- early 1900s.

Must read

In recent history, “surreal” rose to the top of searches after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington, the Newtown shootings that left 26 children and educators at a Connecticut elementary school dead in 2012, the Boston Marathon bombings in 2013 and comedian Robin Williams’ suicide in 2014, according to Merriam-Webster.

Other words on MerriamWebster’s notable list: • “Bigly,” looked up mostly

during the U.S. presidential election after then Republican candidate Donald Trump, using “big league” as an adverb, made it sound like the word “bigly”; and • “Deplorable,” after Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, during the election, famously called Trump supporters a “basket full of deplorables.”

Merriam-Webster’s complete list of notable 2016 words can be found at http://bit.ly/2gTOClO.

Friday, december 23, 2016 • 7a

gwinnettdailypost.com

award in 2014. The company had dedicated the shelter and Earth’s gift bags full of homeAngels, a group striving made soaps to each of to eradicate maternal and the women living in the infant mortality around shelter. the world.

The soaps smelled In the four years it clean and sweet — but has been around, the nobody could smell them Lawrenceville-based orover the savory smells ganization has delivered filling the cafeteria as the aid in Ghana, India and first families arrived.

Syria. Founder Hanan Crystal said she was Waite said serving dinner excited for the meal. So at the shelter was a way was Jahir. He was sitting to give back locally dur- on his mother’s lap using ing the holidays. the plastic utensils to “I suspect the families scoop up imaginary food will feel special getto put in his mouth. ting served,” she said as “He’s just learning how she, three of her board to use those,” Crystal members and two volun- said. teers worked to prepare Mother and son had the food in one of the been on the verge of shelter’s cafeterias before becoming homeless when the dinner.

Crystal moved them into Once the dinner got the shelter Dec. 1. She underway, the six volun- had left Jahir’s father and teers served the families couldn’t find anywhere plates of turkey, ham, to go. She said she didn’t stuffing, yams, squash, know whether she’d have mashed potatoes and a place to sleep from cranberries. Two pumpnight to night. kin pies and a cake sat ”It was very humwaiting at the front of the bling,” she said. “You room. never knew you’d be in So did gift bags from this situation. I didn’t Black Mermaid Bath and know.”

Body, a locally owned Now, she was sitting in soap company that won a warm room, surrounded the Gwinnett Chamber’s by people who cared Amazing Entrepreneur about her, eating holiday

foods.

Home of Hope’s Executive Director Maureen Kornowa said the dinner personified how she wanted the shelter to feel for the women and children living there.

“You say ‘shelter’ and people picture a scary place,” she said. “But here there’s a sense of family.”

Earth’s Angels had been a part of the Home of Hope family for a while, donating where it could. This was the first year the organization had hosted a holiday dinner — but Waite said it wouldn’t be the last.

“We hope to make it annual,” she said.

Kornowa said the shelter thrived on that type of partnership, especially since it separated fiscal ties with the state in 2014. She said it was all about helping those who needed it most.

“When good people come together doing God’s good work, good things happen,” she said.

Crystal’s just glad those people came together when she needed them the most.

“I’m just so grateful,” she said.

•From Page 1A

make movies in Atlanta,” Johnson said. “He did (a Church on Beaver Ruin charity event) downtown Visit gwinnettdailypost.com for photos from the event.

Road, where a stage and then he did it in the was set up, surrounded area where he filmed by a dance floor and ‘Fast and Furious 7.’ It singer and actor said he buffet-style dining area. was so wonderful of him called Johnson late one Children’s DJ Willy to reach out to us, and night from Los Angeles Wow provided songs and to get permission for the I’m so grateful to you, activities throughout the Tyrese. Thank you.” event. afternoon.

Members of the com“(Johnson) said, ‘We munity, organizations and Gibson, with his young are ready and willing to business donated various daughter Shayla nearby, do whatever it takes to and Major Bucky Johnson help you do something in items from Dec. 10-18.

During the collection took the stage to thank the city of Norcross.’” period, organizers hope everyone who made the Despite the time to make viral a campaign last-minute event poscrunch, Johnson could sible and to encourage the not turn down the offer to across social media with audience. help the community from the hashtag #TheLoveCir“What’s happening Gibson, who had made an cleFoundation to promote right now is so much earlier stop in Atlanta for the event. Local officials, community leaders, cebigger than all of us,” a similar event that day.

Gibson said regarding “Here’s somebody who lebrities and athletes were encouraged to participate. the event. The longtime hasn’t just come in to more online

money for Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen, an organization said. “We started with four that provides pet supplies to inflatables and just a couple homeless families so they hundred lights, and now don’t have to give up their we’re at 65 inflatables and pets.

I have no idea how many All of the money dropped lights. Thousands (possibly). into a donation box at the It just gets to a point where display goes toward the you stop counting. nonprofit, Bryan Adam“Each one of the little czyk said. He said they’d trees has about 1,000 on raised $450 for the pet soup them, each arch has a little kitchen as of Monday. over 500 on them, the win“We’ve got two dogs of dows have about 50 in each our own, and you know of them and there’s about you don’t think about what 300 around.” happens (to pets) if you lose The Adamczyks don’t do your job,” Bryan Adamczyk “Christmas on Amberwood” said. “They become a part of only to give the commuyour family. We just thought nity a light display to look it was a good cause with at during the holidays. It what (Daffy’s founder Tom also raises awareness and Wargo) and them did so you

their media attention, but their story spread, anyway.

“Now these kids can start News stations as far away the New Year with a full as Detroit picked it up. lunch,” she said.

“The great thing about Despite the size of their sharing this story or allowgift, the Stoners were taken ing it to be shared is that it’s aback when Volkodav said going to encourage other reporters were calling about people to do something,” it. She guessed somebody Volkodav said. was so moved by the famMatt already received a ily’s actions, they decided text from another deputy to tip off the press. asking how he could do The couple hasn’t done the same thing for another any interviews or played up Gwinnett school.

don’t have to take your kids to the pound if you can’t afford them.”

The display itself does a lot to draw people in during the holidays, but the Adamczyks do other things to help visitors get into the holiday spirit.

Bryan dresses up as Santa on Friday nights and poses for free, high resolution photos with kids (families can download them from the “Christmas on Amberwood” Facebook page after the fact). Today, from 6 to 9 p.m., will be the last chance for photos with Santa this year, though.

“We don’t expect donations,” he said. “It’s just something where if people

have donations, they can make them. If not, I’m not going to hold (photos) from anybody.”

Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen founder Tom Wargo said the nonprofit typically hands out about $1 million worth of pet food and supplies annually to needy families each year. The money raised by the Adamczyks, while small in comparison to the annual total given out, helps at the holidays when the need is higher, he said.

“During Christmas time, it usually gets busier for us and the funding need is always bigger toward the end of the year,” he said. “We get a lot more clients coming in because it’s Christmas

obituaries Sharon Anderson Sharon Carney Anderson, age 56 of Buford, GA passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2016. Arrangements by: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.

AUBURN

Rayford Bramlett Mr. Rayford Bramlett, age 85, of Auburn, Georgia died December 21, 2016.

BUFORD

Jeanne Cheeley Jeanne Mae Cheeley, age 91 of Buford, GA passed away on December 20, 2016. Arrangements by: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.

GAINESVILLE

chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home. Pastor Kathy Lamon will officiate. Interment will follow at 3:30 p.m. in Westview Cemetery, Atlanta, GA. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday, December 22, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Born in Decatur, GA, on April 25, 1955. He was a master plumber for Fulton County School System.

Mr. Dewberry was the son of the late Thomas S. and Dell Brown Dewberry.

He attended Dacula First United Methodist Church.

Mr. Dewberry is survived by his wife, Amy Dewberry of Gainesville; son, Trevor Dewberry of New Mexico; daughter, Olivia Dewberry of Gainesville; father-in-law and motherin-law, Roger and Merilee Ledford of Gainesville; brother and sister-inlaw, Dennis and Susan Dewberry of Hiram, and a number of nieces and nephews and other family members. Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA 30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com LAWRENCEVILLE

Francis W. Martin Thomas Dewberry Mr. Thomas Keith Dewberry, 61, Gainesville, Georgia passed away on December 19, 2016 following an extended illness. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 22, 2016 in the

Debts

•From Page 1A

“This gift just keeps on giving,” Volkodav said.

“That’s what I love the most about people who choose to do things like this.”

Media attention or no, the Stoners have embodied what many see as the holiday spirit.

“They have really set a good example for these young people to look beyond themselves, even at Christmas time,” Volkodav said.

Display

•From Page 1A

BUFORD

Charity

Francis W. (Frank) Martin, 94, of Lawrenceville, GA passed away Thursday, December 22, 2016. Bill Head Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lilburn/Tucker Chapel, (770) 564-2726.

HOSCHTON

Margaret S. Myers Margaret S. Myers age 74, of Hoschton, GA passed away December 21, 2016. Crowell Brothers Funeral Home and Crematory, 201 Morningside Drive/PO Box 2434, Buford, GA 30518. 770945-9999. Please sign the online guest book at www. crowellbrothers.com

STONE MOUNTAIN

Jack Street John Edgar (Jack) Street, 94, of Stone Mountain, GA passed away December 20, 2016 at Scepter Health and Rehab. Jack is survived by his nieces, Robyn Street Vaughn and Holly Street Patterson, who were his caregivers for many years. His wife of 49 years, Lois Bennett Street, preceded him in death. Mr. Street was also preceded in death by his parents; George Raymond and Allie Sawyer Street; sister, Marie Street Tipton; brother, Ray Street and sister-in-law, Barbara Street. Mr. Street was a long time member of Corinth Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher and currently a member at Mountain Park Baptist Church. Jack grew up working in his father’s service station in Stone Mountain. After high school, he continued working there and at a local mechanics shop. These mechanical skills served him well when he was

time and they want to save a few bucks here and there, and it’s amazing what these guys do. The money they raise just makes a big difference.”

Wargo said the exposure the soup kitchen gets from the display is also a benefit.

“All of these people get to know about us,” he said.

Especially people who come up here for free photos and free stuff like that to be with Santa maybe because they can’t afford to go to the mall. they come here and maybe at the same time, they see that those people who’ve also got pets can come to us for free pet food.”

Perhaps the biggest testa-

ment to the Adamczyk’s impact on their community can be seen in the reactions children have to the display.

“I don’t want to leave,” one little girl cried through tears when her mother said they were leaving.

“We get that a lot,” Adamczyk said. “Kids don’t want to leave once they get here.”

Another little boy came to Adamczyk later after touring the display with his mom and exclaimed, “this is amazing.”

Adults seem to like it, too.

“Boy, this really gets you in the Christmas spirit,” one man shouted out his car window to Adamczyk as he and his wife drove by the display.

For more obituaries, visit www.gwinnettdailypost.com.

drafted in January 1943.

Mr. Street entered the Army Air Corps working as a mechanic in the motor pool. He was stationed in 5 European countries during World War II. He firmly believed that his military experience was instrumental in determining the course of his life.

Utilizing the G.I. Bill, he obtained a degree in Mechanical Technology from Southern Polytechnical Institute. After marrying Lois Bennett, Mr. Street worked as Plant Manager for Gardner-Denver over 30 years. Mr. Street was a member and Past Master of Mountain Park Masonic Lodge, serving for over 60 years. He and his wife Lois enjoyed activities with Eastern Star as well as traveling. After retirement, Mr. Street opened a saw sharpening home business. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 PM Friday, December 23, 2016 at the Wages & Sons Stone Mountain Chapel, the family will receive friends from 1 PM until the Funeral hour on Friday. Interment will be in Melwood Cemetery, Stone Mountain, GA. Flowers are accepted or donations can be made to: Mountain Park Masonic Lodge 729 1294 Rockbridge Rd. Stone Mtn. Ga 30087

HOSCHTON

Gladston Thornhill Mr. Gladston Thornhill, age 92, of Hoschton, Georgia died December 21, 2016.

LAWRENCEVILLE

Lois Veillon Lois Ann Arceneaux Veillon, beloved wife of Henry F. Veillon, Jr. of Lawrenceville, passed away Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at the age of 79. Survived by daughter, Debbie Veillon Bice of Lawrenceville; daughter, Cathy Veillon Mitchell and son-in-law, Scott of Monroe; and son, Steve Veillon and daughter-inlaw, Laurie of Gainesville.

She was blessed with 9 grandchildren and 3 greatgrandchildren. Lois was born in New Orleans, LA on September 29, 1937 to Edward and Thelma Arceneaux. A graduate of Stephens High School, Lois went on to marry Henry, and they celebrated 60 years of marriage in July of 2016. Lois spent her years working both in and out of her home.

She served as a Girl Scout leader, team mother, class mother, and many other roles supporting her

children. She worked as a legal secretary and a secretary at Chase Scientific. Lois was an excellent cook, gardener, church volunteer, and made those around her feel special. A Funeral Mass Honoring the Life of Lois will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2016 at 11AM at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 319 Grayson Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30046.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Tom M. Wages Lawrenceville Chapel. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Lois’ name to St. Lawrence Catholic Church at www.saint.law. org. Condolences may be sent to or viewed at www. wagesfuneralhome.com.

Tom M. Wages Funeral Service LLC, “A Family Company” 120 Scenic Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 770-963-2411. .

GDP-12/23/2016

COMPLETE CREMATION $ 79500 www.peachtreecremation.com

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•From Page 1A

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8A • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

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Uptick seen in flu cases World’s #2 Smartest during holiday season Man Reveals Secret cailin.obrien @gwinnettdailypost.com

Beware the flu this holiday season, Gwinnett.

“Especially this year, it looks like the flu is starting to hit this holiday season,” said Dr. Nicholas Bower, medical director at Gwinnett Medical Center’s ChoiceOne Urgent Care center.

He said the center has seen about a dozen flu cases over the past two weeks. That number may not drop much in the near future, especially with holiday traveling and gatherings bringing people — and their germs — into close contact.

Bower said to look out for fever, cough, headache, congestion, sore throat and fatigue. Those symptoms point to the flu.

But the doctor does have

a few tips for avoiding the flu and other germs this season.

“The most important thing over the holidays, especially now when it’s flu season, is to practice really good hygiene,” he said.

That means consistent hand washing. It also means coughing correctly.

“If you need to cough, make sure you cough into your shirt with a covered mouth,” Bower said.

Still, building up the body’s defenses could be more feasible than avoiding germs entirely over the holidays. Bower said it was “really important” to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle over the holidays, even if that doesn’t always feel possible. He suggested getting enough sleep and trying to keep up an exercise routine.

Bower also suggested trying to eat healthy —

“trying” being the key word.

“I would say keep a good diet, but that’s kind of a joke because over the holidays it’s not always possible,” he said.

He suggested balancing holiday goodies with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

And then, there’s always the flu vaccine.

“It’s actually really important right now,” Bower said. “If you haven’t had a flu shot yet, go get one.”

ChoiceOne offers the flu shot for $20. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

But Gwinnett residents can also find flu shots at various Gwinnett County Health Department locations for $30. Shots are also given local Publix and Kroger pharmacy locations.

Gwinnett Tech seeks pieces for K-12 artwork competition

BY KEITH FARNER keith.farner @gwinnettdailypost.com

H

e has one of the highest IQ scores ever recorded.

He beats Einstein and Stephen Hawking in the genius directory.

Yet you have probably never heard of Rick Rosner, officially the world’s second smartest man.

Some experts say it’s because his intelligence was almost by accident, the result of an unusual “smart pill” he takes every morning.

And he agrees.”This pill makes my brain work better,” says Rosner. “By preventing or slowing the brain’s inevitable aging process, it’s sort of like being smarter.”

New Brain-Booster Flying Off Shelves Al Sears, M.D., recently released a brain-boosting supplement based on this pill that has become so popular, he’s having trouble keeping it in stock.

Dr. Sears is the author of over 500 scientific papers on anti-aging and recently spoke at The WPBF 25 Health & Wellness Festival featuring Dr. Oz and special guest Suzanne Somers. Thousands of people listened to Dr. Sears speak on his anti-aging breakthroughs and attended his book signing at the event.

Multiple Studies With Shocking Results The first-place artwork in the middle school category created by Hailey Gerhart of Greenbrier Middle School in Evans. (Special Photo)

back, upper-right corner: • Student’s name • Student’s grade level • School name • School phone number • Local technical college’s name Artwork must be oriented landscape on paper sized 11 by 17 inches.

Art may be created with paint, watercolors, pen-

cils, markers, crayons or charcoal. Submissions in the high school category may be computer-generated. All artwork must be flat; no 3-D objects allowed. Submitted entries will not be returned to contestants.

For further information or questions, call Sechrist at 678-226-6305.

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One study found it doubled the memory and cognitive function of 430 patients in just 24 weeks. Another study published in Neurology found it not only stopped age-related brain shrinkage in over a thousand seniors, it even boosted brain size, especially in the brain’s memory center.

UCLA researchers analyzed brain scans from 265 seniors who took this smart pill and compared the group to the placebo and found on average, this made their brains 28 years younger.

And that’s with just a single weekly dose. Imagine what it could do for you if you took it every day!

One of Dr. Sears’ patients from West Palm Beach, Florida, was very concerned when his memory started slipping. “I was worried when I started blanking out on things that used to be routine. All those ‘senior moments’ started way too young. But they suddenly stopped when I started taking Omega Rejuvenol. Now, I feel my focus and memory are back at age30 levels.”

And then there’s Pete, age 69, who had suffered from progressively weaker memory for 11 years. At one point he was unable to remember his locker combination. But within four months of taking this smart pill, he’s now a math wizard. In fact, he went back to work as a CPA at a large corporation.

The best part is, the supplement has no adverse side effects, you don’t need a prescription or a doctor’s visit, and it’s 100% natural.

Powerful ‘Nootropic’ Vital To Brain Health “Omega Rejuvenol is a true wonder drug for brain health,” said Dr. Sears. “This ‘nootropic’ substantially increases brain volume while supporting mental sharpness and memory.”

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Gwinnett Technical College is accepting original works of art from K-12 students that depict the importance of manufacturing to their lives and communities.

The competition is part of Georgia’s 2017 Manufacturing Appreciation Week, an event that recognizes the contribution of manufacturing to Georgia’s economy. Students are encouraged to create artwork specific to the state of Georgia that celebrates the manufacturers in their communities and/ or showcases products made in their hometowns, counties or statewide.

Artwork will be judged in three categories: kindergarten through elementary school, middle school and high school. Four winners will be chosen from each category. First-, second- and third-place, and honorable mention, winners will be honored at the Governor’s Award Luncheon on April 27 at the Georgia International Convention Center in Atlanta.

Gov. Nathan Deal will present all award winners with certificates, as well as monetary scholarships.

First-place winners will receive $500, secondplace winners receive $300, third-place winners receive $100 and honorable mentions receive $50. The winning entries will also be displayed at the luncheon.

Entries should be submitted to Ann Sechrist at Gwinnett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Building 700 in Lawrenceville. The deadline for entries is Jan. 13.

All artwork must include the following on the

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“The key ingredient of my smart pill is a little-known fatty acid called DHA. Scientists are just beginning to recognize this nutrient as the world’s most powerful ‘nootropic.’”

Your brain is almost entirely made up of fats, 60% of which is DHA. And DHA is essential because it helps your brain grow new branches and renew and rejuvenate itself so you can keep your brain power and sharp thinking.

Top scientists acknowledge we don’t get enough DHA in our modern diet.

Over the last several decades, our food supply has dramatically changed.

DHA is no longer as available as it used to be, not even in fish oil or fish.

The Search For Better DHA So Dr. Sears went looking for better, more concentrated sources of omega-3 460591-1

BY CAILIN O’BRIEN

Dr. Al Sears with fellow physician Dr. Oz at the WPBF 25 Health & Wellness Festival held recently in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

DHA. And he found it where nobody else was looking… literally at the bottom of the earth.

Krill are tiny shrimp-like creatures that swim in huge biomasses in the pure, cold waters near the South Pole.

Nature magazine hails them as the basic source of energy for almost all marine life in the world’s oceans.

It turns out that DHA found in krill oil is able to penetrate into nearly every cell in your body in a far superior way than fish oil.

In a study published in Nutrition Research, krill oil, fish oil and olive oil were compared to see which one raised omega-3 levels higher.

Seventy-six people took 2 grams of krill oil, fish oil or olive oil every day for four weeks — then their omega-3 levels were tested. The results were surprising, to say the least.

Those taking olive oil saw their omega-3s rise 2.9%. Those taking fish oil saw their omega-3s rise 131.8%.

But those taking krill oil saw their omega-3s skyrocket 178.4%. That’s 30% MORE omega-3s absorbed from krill oil than from fish oil!

Second Source Of Rare, Potent DHA Omega Rejuvenol also includes a second unique source of omega-3.

The Argentinian squid thrives by the billions in the icy, pure waters off the tip of South America.

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Where To Find Omega Rejuvenol Right now, the only way to get this powerful one-two punch for a sharp memory and brain-boosting benefits is with Dr. Sears’ breakthrough Omega Rejuvenol formula.

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sports

gwinnettdailypost.com

SECTION B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

North’s Imatorbhebhe enjoying strong debut at USC

By Clark Williams

crazed university brings.

“I’m super introverted,” the redshirt freshman from Who: Southern CaliforClass. Party. Eat. Sleep.

Suwanee said, laughing at nia vs. Penn State Wash. Repeat. his response, “I don’t like When: Jan. 2, 5 p.m.

Where: Pasadena, In no particular order, going out a lot honestly.

Calif. it’s not unreasonable to Usually after games I’ll TV: ESPN assume this to be the likely get some food, come itinerary of your average home, chill and sleep.”

University of Southern college student, no?

Or when he does leave Now add weightlifting, California tight end Daniel the house he may engage practices, games, study Imatorbhebhe tends to in life’s little nuances, hall and copious amounts curve on a bell, however. such as weaving in and of attention from fans Not one for fanfare, out of campus foot traffic and reporters alike for a when the North Gwinon his moped, as was the student-athlete, especially nett graduate isn’t runcase while a student at those at more “coveted” ning routes on Saturday Florida, or cruising down schools, and there’s a bulk afternoons or sticking his the Pacific Coast Highway, of the college experience nose in a book, he tends to taking in the resplendent from both sides of the aisle avoid the attention that be- panoramic views of vast in a few sentences or less. ing a player at a footballocean, the caramel-hued Staff Correspondent

ROSE BOWL

beaches and celebrity mansions perched high atop the canyons.

In other words, he tends to veer left when the majority leans right.

Taciturn as he may be off the field though, his play on it has been anything but as the transfer from Florida, who relocated to Los Angeles, when a scholarship became available, quickly emerged as a force on his new team.

He has 225 receiving yards and four touchdowns in Southern California Trojans tight end Daniel Imatorbhis debut college season, hebhe (88) catches a pass for a touchdown against the which he describes as Colorado Buffaloes during the first half at the Los An-

geles Memorial Coliseum. (Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA

See DEBUT, Page 4B Today Sports)

Grayson girls host tourney This season’s Ram Classic an all girls event

By Will Hammock will.hammock@ gwinnettdailypost.com

Okogie’s Option

Georgia Tech’s Josh Okogie (5) during Tuesday’s game against Georgia at McCamish Pavilion in Atlanta. (Photo: Kyle Hess)

Sticking with Tech pays off for Shiloh grad

By David Friedlander

over a year ago, the Shiloh grad admits the decision on whether to stay with the Yellow Jackets after ATLANTA — For most Brian Gregory was fired as top high school basketball head coach last spring or prospects, the process ask for a release from his of choosing a college scholarship to look for a program to play in is one new college home wasn’t of the biggest decisions to necessarily an easy one. that point in his or her life.

“When I first heard the In Josh Okogie’s case, news (of Gregory’s firing), it’s also a decision he I was actually sleeping and had to make twice, and I woke up and somebody after choosing to sign a told me,” the two-time National Letter of Intent Daily Post Boys Player of with Georgia Tech just the Year said. “It was all

david.friedlander@ gwinnettdailypost.com

Atlanta Gladiators center Shane Bakker played over 150 pro games before recording his first Gordie Howe hat trick while the team was in Florida last weekend. And actually, it was two goals, an assist and a fight in a wild 8-7 overtime loss against the division-leading Everblades.

Bakker, 29, was acquired by the Gladiators in a deal with Wheeling in September and began the season in Providence after earning a tryout contract with Atlanta’s AHL affiliate.

In this installment of “Getting to Know …,” the 6-foot-4 forward talks with staff writer Christine Troyke about a variety of topics, including an auspi-

over the news. I was kind of stunned. I didn’t know what to think. But then I talked to some people close to me and my family, and we decided I shouldn’t really make any decisions yet. I still had my options.

“That was a week before I had a vacation in Florida. So I feel like that vacation really helped me kind of catch up on everything, and I think when I got back, I had to deal with everything and I met with Coach (Josh)

Pastner, and I felt comfortable. The things he told me. … the opportunity to play would still be there.

I felt like I knew I lost (one) coach, but as far as playing time and fitting in to (Pastner’s) style of play, it wasn’t going to change.

He also pitched to me that he likes to go up and down (the court). He wants a fast pace, and that’s what I like to do. I like to run.”

That one conversation was all Okogie needed to hear in deciding to stay at

Tech, and it’s a decision he, Pastner and everyone around the Jackets’ program is happy he made.

“I knew how important it was to keep him because he was going to be a big part of our plans, not only this year, but for the future,” Pastner said of Okogie. “I think by the time he’s a junior or senior, he’ll be an All-ACC guy.”

Okogie is certainly

See OKOGIE, Page 4B

Some ups and downs were expected early this season from the Grayson girls basketball program.

Graduation pulled six key seniors from last season’s school-record, 21-win team.

Those players were also part of the previous team that won 17 games, Kendra then a Hutchinson school record, too. Only two returning seniors, Alicia and Jamecia Torrence, are returning contributors from last season.

The Rams already expected a revamped lineup for 2016-17, but the coaching staff went through a major change, too, when Tony Watkins stepped down for a job at Franklin County.

Robin Potter, after a long, successful stint at Tucker, was hired as his replacement.

Through 10 games, the team takes a 4-6 record into its Grayson Rams Classic next week.

“We’re young,” Potter said. “I feel like we’re getting better. We’ve just been really stressing defense, working on defensive fundamentals, rebounding. Those are two keys for us. I feel like the offense will come.

We’re starting two 10thgraders, sometimes three,

See RAMS, Page 4B

Getting to Know … Shane Bakker up on a farm there, one of those towns where everybody knows everybody.

Just coming back from the break, it was nice to see some family and friends.

brother one day and helped him out with his stuff just so we could spend some time together. He works the farm fulltime. Usually I’ll go ride with him.

CT: How cold was it?

CT: Anything you need SB: It was minus-20 to do when you go home? when I landed. So pretty SB: Just spend time with cold. my mom. She misses me.

CT: Did you bring And growing up on a farm, enough layers? there’s always stuff to do SB: I did. My mom around the barn so I help picked me up at the airport out anywhere I can. and I was just wearing a CT: What type of farm shirt so she brought me one Atlanta Gladiators forward Shane Bakker had his first of my dad’s jackets. There Gordie Howe hat trick last weekend in a 3-2 win in Flori- is it?

SB: It was a dairy farm was loads of snow everyda. Bakker and the Gladiators play at home Friday night but now we just grow and where. against Greenville. (Photo: Dale Zanine) cultivate crops. cious start to his pro career, CT: What’s your homeCT: Is there that much CT: Did you play other getting a new nickname in town like? to do during the winter sports growing up?

Atlanta and binge watching SB: I’m from a little or did you get off lightly SB: I grew up playing “New Girl” with his room- town outside Ottawa called this time? softball and baseball. Then mate Tyler Shiplo.

Navan, Ontario. I grew SB: I went out with my in high school, I think I

played on every sports team I could — volleyball, badminton, track and field, soccer.

CT: That’s what happens in a small town.

CT: Is there a team or player you grew up a fan of?

SB: I was a huge Ottawa Senators fan. My dad had season tickets so he’d take me to a lot of games. My idol was Alexei Yashin.

CT: What was it about him that drew you?

SB: He was No. 19 and that was my favorite number. He was the best player on the Ottawa Senators back then. He was the face of the team.

See BAKKER, Page 4B

2B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

ondeck Prep Schedule

BASKETBALL

Today

• Duluth boys in McDonald’s Classic at Tift County

WRESTLING

• Buford, Mountain View in Coastal Clash in Charleston, S.C. Saturday

BASKETBALL

• Duluth boys in McDonald’s Classic at Tift County

The Home Teams

TODAY NEXT UPCOMING

Gladiators

Greenville South Carolina Florida 7:30 p.m.

Tue, 7:05 p.m.

Dec. 29 7:05 p.m.

102.9-FM 102.9-FM 102.9-FM

Hawks

Falcons

Georgia

Tech

at Denver at Minnesota New York 9 p.m.

Mon, 8 p.m.

Wed, 7:30 p.m.

FSSE/92.9-FM FSSE/92.9-FM FSSE/92.9-FM

at Carolina New Orleans Off Sat, 1 p.m.

Jan. 1, 1 p.m.

FOX/92.9-FM FOX/92.9-FM

vs. TCU^ Off Dec. 30, noon ESPN/750-AM

vs. Kentucky# Off Dec. 31, 11 a.m.

ESPN/93.7-FM

FSSE = FOX Sports Southeast, FSSO = FOX Sports South; ^Autozone Libert Bowl in Memphis, Tenn; #TaxSlayer Bowl in Jacksonville, Fla.

On TV

Today

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

2:30 p.m. — Auburn at Connecticut ESPN2 4:30 p.m. — Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic, First Semifinal ESPN2 6:30 p.m. — Rutgers at Seton Hall FS1 8 p.m. — Harvard at Houston ESPN2 8:30 p.m. — Las Vegas Classic, 3rd Place FS1 10 p.m. — Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic, Second Semifinal ESPN2 11 p.m. — Las Vegas Classic, Final FS1

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

1 p.m. — Popeyes Bahamas Bowl, Eastern Michigan vs. Old Dominion ESPN 4:30 p.m. — Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, Louisiana Tech vs. Navy ESPN 8 p.m. — Dollar General Bowl, Ohio vs. Troy ESPN

NBA

9 p.m. — Atlanta at Denver FSSE

RUGBY

2:30 p.m. — Premiership Northampton vs. Sale NBCSP Saturday

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

8 p.m. — Hawaii Bowl, Hawaii vs. Middle Tennessee State ESPN

NFL

1 p.m. — Atlanta at Carolina FOX 4 p.m. — Indianapolis at Oakland CBS 4:25 p.m. — Tampa Bay at New Orleans FOX

RUGBY

9 a.m. — Premiership Rugby Teams TBA NBCSP Sunday

gwinnettdailypost.com

Falcons won’t take Panthers lightly The Sports Xchange FLOWERY BRANCH — Last season, coach Dan Quinn of the Atlanta Falcons was quite the guest on radio row during Super Bowl 50.

Quinn was the only coach with a victory over the Carolina Panthers (15-1), who had steamrolled through the rest of the league.

This year, the tables have turned.

The Falcons are the team closing in on a playoff berth, and the Panthers, who are on the brink on playoff elimination, are basically playing for pride.

But that won’t matter on Saturday, because both teams take the NFC South matchup so personally.

The Panthers who once inspired quarterback Matt Ryan to betray his nondescript public persona and do a bit of trash talking.

Television cameras caught Ryan on the sideline yelling at the Panthers to “get the (expletive) off my field” at the end of a Falcons victory in 2012. Afterward, Ryan sheepishly explained that he got caught up in the heat of the moment.

Emotions often seem to boil over when the Falcons and Panthers play. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the contentiousness from recent meetings carries over when the Falcons (9-5) play at the Panthers (6-8) on Saturday.

“Oh yeah, big time,” Falcons right tackle Ryan Schraeder said. “Any time we go up against those guys, it’s personal.”

After winning the NFC title last season, the Panthers have a mathematically-small chance of going back to the playoffs.

The Falcons dominated them for a 48-33 victory at the Georgia Dome on Oct. 3.

But the Panthers showed new life in beating San Diego and Washington over the last two weeks. And the Panthers surely would delight in

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) spikes the ball after running for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday at the Georgia Dome. (Photo: Dale Zanine-USA Today Sports)

sticking it to the Falcons, who need to beat the Panthers and then the Saints to be assured of the NFC South title. Atlanta will get a boost on offense, as Julio Jones is set to return to action.

“It’s always the same,” Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow said. “You always expect that (antagonism). Records go out the window. It’s going to be a battle.”

The Falcons hold a 26-17 edge in the all-time series that began in 1995, Carolina’s first season as an expansion franchise.

The series was fairly even in its early years, and then the Falcons enjoyed an 18-7 advantage from 2000 through 2011.

The Panthers gained on the Falcons when they drafted Newton, a product of Atlanta’s Westlake High, in 2011. After losing twice to the Falcons as a rookie, Newton has won five of the last eight meetings as the Panthers captured the last three division titles.

The Panthers have been built around a physical run game that includes Newton plus an aggressive defense.

“All the plays are finished,” Worrilow said.

“Every second in between the whistles you are going at it. It’s not a game you come into it with a weak attitude. We see them twice a year and they are just hard, physical games.”

Ryan’s actions at the end of the 2012 game at the Georgia Dome injected venom into the rivalry.

After the Panthers won the rematch that season, Carolina defensive end Greg Hardy echoed Ryan by telling the Falcons to “get the (expletive) off our field” as the teams met for postgame pleasantries.

An unidentified Falcons player told Hardy the Panthers still were a “sorry” team, prompting Hardy to snap back.

Falcons kicker Matt Bryant got the last word: “Enjoy watching us in January.” The Panthers were 4-9 after that victory and finished 7-9, six games behind the NFC South champion Falcons.

The mutual animosity resurfaced when the Falcons and Panthers brawled during a game on Nov. 16, 2014, prompt-

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR HOCKEY!

6 p.m. — Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic, Third-Place Game: Teams TBA ESPN2 8 p.m. — Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic, Final: Teams TBA ESPN2

Don’t miss three nights of holiday excitement!

NBA

Noon — Boston at New York ESPN 2:30 p.m. — Golden State at Cleveland ABC 5 p.m. — Chicago at San Antonio ABC 8 p.m. — Minnesota at Oklahoma City ESPN 10:30 p.m. — Los Angeles Clippers at Los Angeles Lakers ESPN

UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER NIGHT

NFL

4:30 p.m. — Baltimore at Pittsburgh NFLN 8:20 p.m. — Denver at Kansas City NBC

SOCCER

7 p.m. — Mexicano Primera Division La Gran Final, Vuelta: Tigres U.A.N.L. vs. Club America Univision

vs Greenville Swamp Rabbits at 7:35pm Fri. Dec. 23rd

Sports Calendar

RUNNING

Jan. 28: The seventh annual Norcross Blue Devils Run, a Peachtree Road Race qualifier, will feature a 5K and 1-mile fun run at Pinckneyville Middle School in Peachtree Corners. 5K starts at 8 a.m. and fun run starts when 5K finishes. Early registration is $25 and race-day registration is $30. Proceeds from the student-led event will benefit the high school’s cross country and track and field programs.

For more information or to register, go to bluedevilsrun.wixsite.com/norcross or run signup.com/ BlueDevilsRun. Feb. 4: Meadowcreek will host its fourth annual Stampede in the Park 5K Trail run Feb. 4 at Yellow River Park. The course covers soft surfaces and

ing the NFL to fine five players. There were no major incidents during the rematch later that season, but the bad feelings returned in 2015.

The Panthers irked the Falcons when, during a 38-0 loss in Carolina, Newton and 16 other players posed for pictures on the sideline.

The Falcons handed the Panthers their first loss in the 2015 regular-season finale, and some Falcons players made sure to note that Newton left the field quickly that time.

Those games were Quinn’s introduction to the Panthers rivalry as Falcons coach. Quinn said he would warn his players about getting too caught up in the passion of the game on Saturday.

“We try to take it right up to the cusp of being emotional but not losing your mind where you can’t play at your best,” Quinn said. “That’s not specific necessarily to this week, where we’re going to try and do something differently or play in a different style or different way. That’s not our way at all.”

paved trails. All proceeds benefit the high school’s cross country program.

Registration is available at active.com, and more information is available at stampedeinthepark.wix. com/5k1kfunrun. Email stampedeinthepark@ gmail.com with any questions.

SOCCER

Ongoing through Jan. 14: Atlanta Fire United youth soccer has opened online registration for its spring recreational season at www.atlantaunitedsoccer.com. Walk-up registration also will be held Jan. 7 at George Pierce Park in Suwanee and Jan. 14 at Bunten Road Park in Duluth. Registration ends Jan. 15. First games are March 4 and practices start Feb. 20.

D R IV E W IN TE R C LO TH INvsG Flo rid a Ev er bla de s

vs So uth Ca ro lin a Sti ng ray s at 7:0 5p m Tu es . De c. 27 th

th Do na tio n Sp ec ia l Tic ke t Offe r wi for offer details Visit atlantagladiators.com

Feedback

M OR VISIT FOR TICKETS GO TO ATLANTAGLADIATORS.CO THE BOX OFFICE AT INFINITE ENERGY ARENA

457058-1

• Will Hammock, Sports Editor: will.hammock@gwinnettdailypost.com • Christine Troyke, Staff Writer: christine.troyke@gwinnettdailypost.com • David Friedlander, Staff Writer: david.friedlander@gwinnettdailypost.com • Paul Thomas, Staff Writer: paul.thomas@gwinnettdailypost.com • Scott Smith, Senior Correspondent: scott.smith@gwinnettdailypost.com • To report scores, call 770-339-5850

www.gwinnettdailypost.com

at 7:0 5p m Th ur. De c. 29 th

#BattleTogether

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016 • 3B

gwinnettdailypost.com PREP ROUNDUP

Wesleyan wins Hurricane Duals

From Staff Reports

MONROE — The Wesleyan wrestling team took first place on Thursday in the Hurricane Duals at Monroe Area High School.

The Wolves (20-2) were 5-0 on the day, defeating Parkview 58-12, North Oconee 63-3, Kell 41-32, Monroe Area 38-33 and West Forsyth 48-26 in the finals.

Harrison Dearth, William Delk, Grant Marshall and George Bielan were all undefeated on the day.

FANS CHOICE WINTER ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Who: Kayla Mulkey School: Mill Creek Sport: Basketball Class: Sophomore Highlights: Scored 19 points and made five 3-pointers in a 62-46 victory over Duluth Coach Ashley Phillips’ take: “The last few games she’s shot really well for us. She played more minutes-wise than she has other games (against Duluth). She had eight (points) a couple of times, 11 (against North Gwinnett). We’ve had coaches ask us after games, ‘Who is that No. 4?’

Her 3-point shot, every time she shoots it, it looks like it’s going in. It just has that look about it. We’re excited she’s progressing so well.”

BOYS HOOPS HOOPs BOYS

Duluth 70, Valdosta 58 TIFTON — Duluth boys basketball defeated Valdosta 70-58 on Thursday in the McDonald’s Tift County Invitational.

The Wildcats (8-5) were led by Will Huzzie’s 20 points and eight rebounds. Jalen Hodges had 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Adam Flagler had 18 points,

Lamont Smith had 12 points and five assists and Christian Kelly had 10 points.

GIRLS HOOPS HOOPS GIRLS Norcross 58, Wesleyan 53 MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — The Norcross girls basketball team defeated Wesleyan in an

all-Gwinnett matchup in the Crescom Bank Holiday Classic fifth-place game in Myrtel Beach, S.C. The Blue Devils (15-1) were led by 22 points, 11 rebounds and five assists from Vanessa Blagmon. Taylor Mason added 16 points, six rebounds and three assists. The duo was named to the all-tournament team.

Wesleyan (10-2) was led by 14 points and 11 rebounds from Natalie Armstrong. Jameson Kavel also had 14 points. Mikayla Cooms was doubled for much of the game and finished with eight points and four assists.

Brookwood 55, Lambert 46 SUWANEE — Behind a triple-double from N’dea Jones, Brookwood defeated host Lambert 55-46 on Thursday in the Lambert Holiday Classic.

Jones scored 17 points, had 16 rebounds and blocked 12 shots. She also had five steals for the Broncos (8-4). Kierra Adams added 17 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the victory.

Collins Hill 61, Woodland 22 STOCKBRIDGE — Collins Hill girls clinched the Woodland Invitational with ease late Wednesday night with a 61-22 win over host Woodland High School in the championship game.

Nia Lee led the Eagles (12-0) with 11 points. Kayla Dixon, Jaron Stallworth and Katherine Fourie each had 10 points and Javyn Nicladson had eight points and 12 rebounds.

Lammers helps Tech hoops bounce back The Sports Xchange ATLANTA — Center Ben Lammers scored 12 of his 19 points in the second half to help Georgia Tech turn away pesky Wofford 76-72 Thursday at McCamish Pavilion.

The junior was 9 for 12 from the field, including an emphatic slam dunk with 1:29 left that gave the Yellow Jackets a fourpoint lead. Lammers also had seven rebounds, six assists and two blocked shots.

Georgia Tech (7-4)

Basketball National Basketball Association CENTRAL EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division

W L Pct GB Toronto................. 20.....8.... .714....... — Boston.................. 16...12.....571......... 4 New York.............. 15...13.....536......... 5 Brooklyn................. 7...20.....259....12.5 Philadelphia........... 7...21.....250....... 13 Southeast Division

W L Pct GB Charlotte.............. 16...13.....552....... — Atlanta.................. 14...15.....483......... 2 Washington.......... 13...15.....464......2.5 Orlando................ 13...17.....433......3.5 Miami..................... 9...20.... .310......... 7 Central Division

W L Pct GB Cleveland............. 21.....6.....778....... — Indiana................. 15...15.....500.......7.5 Chicago................ 14...14.....500.......7.5 Milwaukee............ 13...14.....481......... 8 Detroit................... 14...17.....452......... 9 WESTERN CONFERENCE Southwest Division

W L Pct GB San Antonio......... 23.....5.....821....... — Houston............... 22.....8.....733......... 2 Memphis.............. 19...12.... .613......5.5 New Orleans.........10...21.....323....14.5 Dallas..................... 8...21.... .276....15.5 Northwest Division

W L Pct GB Utah...................... 18...12.....600....... — Oklahoma City..... 17...12.....586........ .5 Portland............... 13...18.... .419......5.5 Denver................. 12...17.... .414......5.5 Minnesota.............. 9...19.....321......... 8 Pacific Division

W L Pct GB Golden State........ 25.....4.....862....... — L.A. Clippers........ 21.....8.....724......... 4 Sacramento......... 12...17.... .414....... 13 L.A. Lakers............11...20.....355....... 15 Phoenix.................. 8...21.... .276....... 17 Thursday’s Games Boston 109, Indiana 102 Golden State at Brooklyn, late Orlando at New York, late L.A. Lakers at Miami, late San Antonio at L.A. Clippers, late Today’s Games Chicago at Charlotte, 7 p.m.

L.A. Lakers at Orlando, 7 p.m.

Brooklyn at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m.

Oklahoma City at Boston, 7:30 p.m.

Golden State at Detroit, 7:30 p.m.

Washington at Milwaukee, 8 p.m.

Houston at Memphis, 8 p.m.

Miami at New Orleans, 8 p.m.

Sacramento at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

Atlanta at Denver, 9 p.m.

Toronto at Utah, 9 p.m.

Philadelphia at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

San Antonio at Portland, 10 p.m.

Dallas at L.A. Clippers, 10:30 p.m.

College Basketball Thursday’s Scores EAST Brown 82, Maine 77 Canisius 106, St. Bonaventure 101, OT Dartmouth 75, Bryant 69 Duquesne 70, Colgate 57 George Mason 75, Prairie View A&M 59 Georgetown 78, NC-Greensboro 56 Hartford 63, Navy 54 Hofstra 84, Siena 64 Lehigh 93, Cabrini 72 Manhattan 81, Eastern Kentucky 54 Massachusetts 78, Rider 67 Mount St. Mary’s 87, Coppin St. 49 New Jersey Tech 92, Dean 50 Old Dominion 65, Howard 46 Princeton 72, Bucknell 70 Rhode Island 73, William & Mary 62 St. Joseph’s 92, Lafayette 63 Temple 83, Yale 77 Towson 76, Iona 69 Troy 92, Cornell 84 VCU 78, Louisiana-Monroe 65 Wagner 94, College of Staten Island 42 SOUTH Alcorn St. 83, Rust College 68 Campbell 81, Stetson 72 Charleston 77, Western Carolina 59 East Carolina 76, Presbyterian 56

didn’t put the game away until guard Josh Heath made a pair of free throws with five seconds remaining to restore a four-point lead. Heath missed two free throws with 43 seconds that kept the Terriers’ hopes alive.

Wofford (5-8) got 23 points and six assists from Eric Garcia, who was 6-for-9 on 3-pointers.

Nathan Hoover added 17 points, including three 3-pointers. Fletcher Magee scored 12 and Cameron Jackson had 10 points and 11 rebounds.

The Yellow Jackets had four other players in double figures as Tadric Jackson scored 14 points, Justin Moore and Heath scored 12 each, and Shiloh grad Josh Okogie had 10. Jackson scored all of his points in the first half.

The Terriers took the game to Georgia Tech in the first half and had a 21-15 lead with 9:14 remaining. That’s when Jackson took over and scored 11 points on a 14-2 run which saw the Yellow Jackets take a 2923 lead.

Georgia Tech center Ben Lammers (44) shoots against Wofford at McCamish Pavilion. (Photo: Jason Getz-USA Today Sports)

UGA fines Beamer $25K for his role in ‘Wakeyleaks’ From Staff Reports

anyone on the coaching staff, or my father, nor did ATHENS — The we use the information in the game.

University of Georgia “I realize I made a seriannounced on Thursday ous mistake in judgment that it has fined assistant by accepting the informacoach Shane Beamer $25,000 for his role in the tion and failing to notify officials at Virginia Tech “Wakeyleaks” scandal of the communications. when he was a Virginia I sincerely apologize Tech assistant. to Virginia Tech, Wake An investigation by Wake Forest revealed ear- Forest, the ACC and the lier this month that former University of Georgia for my mistake. I am truly Demon Deacon quartersorry. I am particularly back and assistant coach remorseful to the extent Tommy Elrod, who was working with the school’s my actions may have radio broadcast, had been brought embarrassment to my family, and espegiving opposing coaches Wake Forest’s gameplans. cially my dad. Again, I apologize for my actions Beamer was an asand have learned from my sistant under his father, mistakes.”

Frank, at Virginia Tech Beamer is in his first for five years. Beamer admitted that prior to the season as the Bulldogs tight ends coach and 2014 Wake Forest-Virspecial teams coordinaginia Tech game he was tor. He informed head contacted by Elrod. coach Kirby Smart last “While at Virginia week of the situation and Tech, I was contacted by UGA athletic director Tommy Elrod the night Greg McGarity elected to before our game against Wake Forest in 2014,” he withhold $25,000 from said in statement released the coach.

“Last week, Shane

by UGA. “I had known informed me of his inhim for several years volvement regarding the through coaching circles 2014 Virginia Tech game so I did not think it unusual he would be calling against Wake Forest.

While we do not condone me. During these communications, however, he this type of behavior, I told me about a few plays appreciate Shane informing me and our administhat he said Wake Fortration of his involvement est might run during the and respect the way in game on Saturday. I did which he is accepting renot share this information with anyone, includ- sponsibility for his lapse in judgment,” Smart said. ing our student-athletes,

SPORTS AT A GLANCE Florida Gulf Coast 107, Florida National 50 Georgia Southern 106, Fisk 58 Georgia Tech 76, Wofford 72 Kennesaw St. 68, No.Carolina A&T 60 Louisiana Tech 95, LSU Shreveport 53 Miami-Florida 72, George Washington 64 Mississippi St. 85, Morehead St. 76 N.C. State 89, McNeese St. 57 San Diego St. 66, Southern Miss 51 South Florida 81, Delaware 53 Tennessee 72, East Tennessee St. 68 Tulsa 74, Stephen F. Austin 51 UC Irvine 62, Texas-El Paso 57 La Salle at Mercer, late Cleveland St. at Belmont, late San Diego at North Texas, late Florida A&M at Samford, late Louisiana State at Wake Forest, late South Alabama at Mississippi, late MIDWEST Ball St. 73, Alabama St. 48 Bowling Green 74, Alabama A&M 61 Chicago St. 74, SE Missouri St. 65 Cincinnati 93, Marshall 91, OT Eastern Michigan 101, Marygrove College 48 IUPU - Ft. Wayne 93, Detroit Mercy 86 Indiana 97, Austin Peay 62 Miami (OH) 66, Tennessee Tech 58 Michigan 68, Furman 62 Oklahoma St. 92, Texas A&M CC 70 Sam Houston St. vs. Arkansas at North Little Rock, AR, late Winthrop at Saint Louis, late Tenn-Martin at Southern Illinois, late South Dakota State at Wichita St., late Houston Baptist at Northwestern, late Wright St. at Murray St., late St. Mary’s (MN) at Green Bay, late Roosevelt at Illinois-Chicago, late Santa Clara at Valparaiso, late Mount St. Joseph at Evansville, late Mississippi Valley State at Drake, late Wyoming vs. DePaul at Las Vegas, NV, late Delaware State at Iowa, late N.C. Asheville at Ohio St., late Maryland - E. Shore vs. Akron at El Paso, TX, late WEST Air Force 77, UC Davis 67 Arizona State 98, Central Arkansas 62 Nevada 67, UC Santa Barbara 66 Portland St. 118, Walla Walla 59 Eastern Washington at Colorado, late Cal. State - Bakersfield at Brigham Young, late Pepperdine at Montana, late UC Riverside at Denver, late Arkansas-Pine Bluff at Grand Canyon, late Kansas at UNLV, late Washington at Seattle, late South Carolina State at St. Mary’s, late Texas-Arlington at Loyola Marymount, late Colorado St. at Long Beach St., late Portland at Cal St. Fullerton Idaho at Stanford, late San Francisco vs. Utah at Honolulu, HI, late Missouri St. vs. Southern California at Las Vegas, NV, late Illinois St. at Hawaii, late Today’s games EAST Marist (4-8) at Holy Cross (5-7), 12:05 p.m.

Massachusetts Lowell (4-8) at LoyolaMaryland (5-5), 1 p.m.

St. Peter’s (4-6) at St. Francis (NY) (2-10), 2 p.m.

Auburn (9-2) at Connecticut (5-5), 2:30 p.m.

Grace Bible College (0-0) at Radford (4-7), 3 p.m.

Providence (10-2) at Boston College (6-6), 4 p.m.

Northern Kentucky (9-3) at West Virginia (10-1), 4 p.m.

Rutgers (11-1) at Seton Hall (9-2), 6:30 p.m.

MD Baltimore Cty (8-3) at James Madison (1-10), 7 p.m.

SOUTH Texas State (6-5) at Tulane (3-8), 2 p.m.

Harvard (4-4) at Houston (9-2), 8 p.m.

MIDWEST Richmond (6-5) at Oral Roberts (3-10),

4 p.m.

Georgia (8-3) at Oakland (9-3), 7 p.m.

Arkansas St. (9-3) at Minnesota (11-1), 7 p.m.

VMI (3-7) at Dayton (8-3), 7 p.m.

Florida A&M (2-9) at Wisconsin (10-2), 9 p.m.

WEST Pacific Union (0-1) at Pacific (5-7), 5 p.m.

Football National Football League AMERICAN CONFERENCE East

W L T Pct PF PA New England..12....2... 0....857....365....233 Miami................9....5... 0....643....315....314 Buffalo...............7....7... 0....500....358....314 N.Y. Jets............4..10... 0....286....242....358

South

W L T Pct PF PA Tennessee........8....6... 0....571....340....323 Houston............8....6... 0....571....250....294 Indianapolis......7....7... 0....500....362....339 Jacksonville......2..12... 0....143....260....359

North

W L T Pct PF PA Pittsburgh..........9....5... 0....643....341....276 Baltimore...........8....6... 0....571....306....263 Cincinnati..........5....8... 1....393....288....293 Cleveland..........0..14... 0....000....220....408

West

W L T Pct PF PA Oakland.......... 11....3... 0....786....377....336 Kansas City....10....4... 0....714....319....274 Denver..............8....6... 0....571....299....258 San Diego.........5....9... 0....357....366....366

NATIONAL CONFERENCE East

W L T Pct PF PA

Dallas....................12.... 2.... 0..857.366.258 N.Y. Giants............10.... 4.... 0..714.272.250 Washington.............7.... 6.... 1..536.345.343 Philadelphia............5.... 9.... 0..357.316.299

South

W L T Pct PF PA Atlanta...............9....5... 0....643....469....358 Tampa Bay........8....6... 0....571....313....322 New Orleans.....6....8... 0....429....406....392 Carolina.............6....8... 0....429....337....352

North

W L T Pct PF PA Detroit................9....5... 0....643....301....285 Green Bay.........8....6... 0....571....363....339 Minnesota.........7....7... 0....500....264....259 Chicago.............3..11... 0....214....248....320

West

W L T Pct PF PA Seattle...............9....4... 1....679....298....235 Arizona..............5....8... 1....393....340....325 Los Angeles......4..10... 0....286....197....328 San Francisco...1..13... 0....071....264....434

Thursday, Dec. 22 N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia, late Saturday, Dec. 24 Miami at Buffalo, 1 p.m.

Atlanta at Carolina, 1 p.m.

Washington at Chicago, 1 p.m.

San Diego at Cleveland, 1 p.m.

Minnesota at Green Bay, 1 p.m.

Tennessee at Jacksonville, 1 p.m.

N.Y. Jets at New England, 1 p.m.

Indianapolis at Oakland, 4:05 p.m.

Tampa Bay at New Orleans, 4:25 p.m.

Arizona at Seattle, 4:25 p.m.

San Francisco at Los Angeles, 4:25 p.m.

Cincinnati at Houston, 8:25 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 25 Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 4:30 p.m.

Denver at Kansas City, 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 26 Detroit at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 1 New Orleans at Atlanta, 1 p.m.

Green Bay at Detroit, 1 p.m.

Jacksonville at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.

New England at Miami, 1 p.m.

Chicago at Minnesota, 1 p.m.

Buffalo at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.

Dallas at Philadelphia, 1 p.m.

Cleveland at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.

Carolina at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.

Houston at Tennessee, 1 p.m.

N.Y. Giants at Washington, 1 p.m.

Baltimore at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.

Seattle at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m.

Oakland at Denver, 4:25 p.m.

Arizona at Los Angeles, 4:25 p.m.

Kansas City at San Diego, 4:25 p.m.

College Bowl Glance Dec. 17 Air Force Reserve

Celebration Bowl Grambling 10, North Carolina Central 9 Gildan New Mexico Bowl New Mexico 23, Texas-San Antonio 20 Las Vegas Bowl Presented

by Geico San Diego State 34, Houston 10 Raycom Media Camellia Bowl Appalachian State 31, Toledo 28 AutoNation Cure Bowl Arkansas State 31, Central Florida 13 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Southern Mississippi 28, LouisianaLafayette 21 Dec. 19 Miami Beach Bowl Tulsa 55, Central Michigan 10 Dec. 20 Boca Raton Bowl Western Kentucky 51, Memphis 31 Dec. 21 San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl BYU 24, Wyoming 21 Dec. 22 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Idaho vs. Colorado State, late Today Popeye’s Bahamas Bowl Eastern Michigan vs. Old Dominion, 1 p.m.

Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl Louisiana Tech vs. Navy, 4:30 p.m.

Dollar General Bowl Ohio vs. Troy, 8 p.m.

Dec. 24 Hawaii Bowl Hawaii vs. Middle Tennessee, 8 p.m.

Dec. 26 St. Petersburg Bowl Miami (Ohio) vs. Mississippi State, 11 a.m.

Quick Lane Bowl Maryland vs. Boston College, 2:30 p.m.

Camping World Independence Bowl North Carolina State vs. Vanderbilt, 5 p.m.

Dec. 27 Zaxby’s Heart of Dallas Bowl Army vs. North Texas, 12 p.m.

Military Bowl presented

by Northrop Grumman Temple vs. Wake Forest, 3:30 p.m.

National Funding Holiday Bowl Minnesota vs. Washington State, 7 p.m.

Motel 6 Cactus Bowl Boise State vs. Baylor, 10:15 p.m.

Dec. 28 New Era Pinstripe Bowl Pittsburgh vs. Northwestern, 2 p.m.

Russell Athletic Bowl West Virginia vs. Miami, 5:30 p.m.

Foster Farms Bowl Indiana vs. Utah, 8:30 p.m.

AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl Texas A&M vs. Kansas State, 9 p.m.

Dec. 29 Birmingham Bowl South Florida vs. South Carolina, 2 p.m.

Belk Bowl Arkansas vs. Virginia Tech, 5:30 p.m.

Valero Alamo Bowl Oklahoma State vs. Colorado, 9 p.m.

Dec. 30 AutoZone Liberty Bowl Georgia vs. TCU, 12 p.m.

Hyundai Sun Bowl Stanford vs. North Carolina, 2 p.m.

Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl Nebraska vs. Tennessee, 3:30 p.m.

Nova Home Loans Arizona Bowl South Alabama vs. Air Force, 5:30 p.m.

Capital One Orange Bowl Michigan vs. Florida State, 8 p.m.

Dec. 31 Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl LSU vs. Louisville, 11 a.m.

TaxSlayer Bowl Georgia Tech vs. Kentucky, 11 a.m.

College Football Playoff Semifinal at Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Washington vs. Alabama, 3 p.m.

College Football Playoff semifinal at Playstation Fiesta Bowl Ohio State vs. Clemson, 7 p.m.

Jan. 2 Outback Bowl Florida vs. Iowa, 1 p.m.

Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic

Western Michigan vs. Wisconsin, 1 p.m.

Rose Bowl Game Presented by Northwestern Mutual USC vs. Penn State, 5 p.m.

Allstate Sugar Bowl Auburn vs. Oklahoma, 8:30 p.m.

Jan. 7 NCAA FCS Championship James Madison vs. Youngstown State, 12 p.m.

Jan. 9 College Football Playoff National Championship TBA, 8 p.m.

Golf World Golf Rankings Through Dec. 19 1. Jason Day AUS 11.14 2. Rory McIlroy NIR 10.02 3. Dustin Johnson USA 9.70 4. Henrik Stenson SWE 8.83 5. Jordan Spieth USA 8.24 6. Hideki Matsuyama JPN 7.57 7. Adam Scott AUS 6.65 8. Patrick Reed USA 5.48 9. Alexander Noren SWE 5.41 10. Bubba Watson USA 5.31 11. Danny Willett ENG 5.18 12. Rickie Fowler USA 5.08 13. Sergio Garcia ESP 4.82 14. Paul Casey ENG 4.78 15. Justin Rose SAF 4.54 16. Brooks Koepka USA 4.41 17. Branden Grace SAF 4.40 18. Russell Knox SCO 4.22 19. Phil Mickelson USA 4.17 20. Matt Kuchar USA 4.16 21. Jimmy Walker USA 4.07 22. Justin Thomas USA 4.02 23. Charl Schwartzel SAF 3.73 24. Tyrrell Hatton ENG 3.71 25. Louis Oosthuizen SAF 3.67 26. Emiliano Grillo ARG 3.66 27. Rafael Cabrera Bello ESP 3.55 28. Brandt Snedeker USA 3.51 29. J.B. Holmes USA 3.46 30. Matthew Fitzpatrick ENG 3.42 31. Francesco Molinari ITA 3.27 32. Kevin Chappell USA 3.23 33. Yuta Ikeda JPN 3.19 34. Daniel Berger USA 3.19 35. Ryan Moore USA 3.15 36. Scott Piercy USA 3.12 37. Jim Furyk USA 3.04 38. Zach Johnson USA 2.90 39. Chris Wood ENG 2.82 40. Bernd Wiesberger AUT 2.77 41. Bill Haas USA 2.75 42. Lee Westwood ENG 2.68 43. Shane Lowry IRL 2.68 44. Kevin Na KOR 2.65 45. Andy Sullivan ENG 2.64 46. Byeong-Hun An KOR 2.64 47. Thomas Pieters BEL 2.62 48. Soren Kjeldsen DEN 2.62 49. Gary Woodland USA 2.60 50. Kevin Kisner USA 2.55 51. William McGirt USA 2.54 52. Thongchai Jaidee THA 2.52 53. Martin Kaymer GER 2.44 54. Si Woo Kim USA 2.41 55. Marc Leishman AUS 2.40 56. Hideto Tanihara JPN 2.38 57. K.T. Kim KOR 2.35 58. Joost Luiten NLD 2.25 59. Brendan Steele USA 2.21 60. Scott Hend AUS 2.20 61. Jeung-hun Wang KOR 2.16 62. Jason Dufner USA 2.12 63. James Hahn KOR 2.06 64. Thorbjorn Olesen DEN 2.05 65. Ross Fisher ENG 2.04 66. Charley Hoffman USA 2.02 67. Danny Lee KOR 2.01 68. David Lingmerth SWE 2.01 69. Billy Horschel USA 1.99 70. Roberto Castro USA 1.99 71. Jhonattan Vegas VEN 1.96 72. Brandon Stone SAF 1.95 73. Daniel Summerhays USA 1.95 74. Chris Kirk USA 1.95 75. Ryan Palmer USA 1.93 76. Harris English USA 1.89 77. Anirban Lahiri IND 1.80 78. Young-han Song KOR 1.77 79. Victor Dubuisson FRA 1.77 80. Luke Donald ENG 1.75 81. Kiradech Aphibarnrat THA 1.74 82. Fabian Gomez ARG 1.72 83. Webb Simpson USA 1.71

84. Graeme McDowell GBR 1.71 85. Sean O’Hair USA 1.70

Transactions BASEBALL American League TAMPA BAY RAYS—Signed LF Shane Peterson, 2B Ryan Brett, C Michael McKenry, RHP Diego Moreno, LHP Justin Marks, and LHP Dana Eveland to a minor league contract.

BASKETBALL National Basketball Association SAN ANTONIO SPURS—Recalled SG Bryn Forbes and PG Dejounte Murray from Austin (NBADL).

UTAH JAZZ—Assigned PF Joel Bolomboy to Salt Lake City (NBADL).

COLLEGE BASKETBALL DUKE—Suspended G Grayson Allen indefinitely.

FRESNO ST.—Signed head coach Rodney Terry to a contract extension through the 2020-21 season.

GEORGIA—Fined Shane Beamer $25,000 for conduct detrimental to the team.

SETON HALL—Dismissed sophomore F Myles Carter.

FOOTBALL National Football League ATLANTA FALCONS—Activated LB Josh Keyes and TE D.J. Tialavea from the practice squad. Waived DB Robenson Therezie. Waived DE Malliciah Goodman.

CHICAGO BEARS—Added C Cornelius Edison to the practice squad.

CLEVELAND BROWNS—Cut DB Trae Elston. Waived K Patrick Murray.

DALLAS COWBOYS—Added DE Shelby Harris to the practice squad.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS—Cut DT Woodrow Hamilton.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS—Cut G Josh Allen.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS—Activated DB Dashaun Phillips from the practice squad. Added DE Lynden Trail to the practice squad. Waived WR Rashad Ross.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL EAST CAROLINA—Announced assistant head coach and defensive backs coach Rick Smith has retired.

FRESNO STATE—Named Tony Tuioti assistant defensive line coach.

JAMES MADISON—Suspended WR Terrence Alls indefinitely for violating the school’s standards of conduct.

Suspended LB Brandon Hereford indefinitely for violating the school’s standards of conduct.

MICHIGAN—Suspended WR Grant Perry from the program.

NORTH ALABAMA—Promoted defensive coordinator Chris Willis to head coach.

NOTRE DAME—Named Mike Elko defensive coordinator.

TEXAS A&M—Suspended WR Speedy Noil after he was charged with misdemeanor drug possession.

HOCKEY National Hockey League BUFFALO SABRES—Announced C David Legwand has retired.

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS—Recalled RW Tanner Kero from Rockford (AHL).

FLORIDA PANTHERS—Recalled G Mike McKenna from Springfield (AHL).

MONTREAL CANADIENS—Assigned RW Sven Andrighetto to St. John’s (AHL). Recalled D Joel Hanley from St. John’s (AHL).

NEW JERSEY DEVILS—Recalled D Seth Helgeson from Albany (AHL).

OTTAWA SENATORS—Signed C Filip Chlapik to a three-year, entry-level contract.

ST. LOUIS BLUES—Recalled C Wade Megan from Chicago (AHL).

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING—Recalled LW Michael Bournival from Syracuse (AHL).

WINNIPEG JETS—Activated RW Joel Armia and C Shawn Matthias from injured reserve.

4B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016 •From Page 1B so it’s going to be a process.

A couple of (the players) weren’t with me this summer, so it’s learning a new system for them offensively and defensively.

“It’s continuing to work on their work ethic, their hustle. It’s all a process. And we’re getting better. We feel like we’re moving in the right direction. But it’s going to be a process to learn expectations and learn their roles.”

Grayson’s last outing was a good one — Kendra Hutchinson had 18 points and Jonnise Poole scored 15 in a 61-37 victory over Peachtree Ridge. That game was preceded by back-toback region losses and a 66-19 win over Berkmar.

The region losses were far from discouraging. The Rams lost just 59-53 to Newton (8-1) and 53-42 to Archer (9-2).

“We were right in there with Newton,” Potter said.

“I feel like we played a good

•From Page 1B

gwinnettdailypost.com

Rams BASKETBALL What: Grayson Ram Classic When: Tuesday-Thursday Where: Grayson High School Schedule (all girls games): Tuesday Noon — Berkmar vs. Dacula 1:45 p.m. — Buford vs. Jonesboro 3:30 p.m. — Parkview vs. Rockdale 5:15 p.m. — Peachtree Ridge vs. North Cobb 7 p.m. — Grayson vs. Alpharetta Wednesday Noon — Peachtree Ridge vs. Rockdale 1:45 p.m. — Berkmar vs. Jonesboro 3:30 p.m. — North Cobb vs. Alpharetta 5:15 p.m. — Buford vs. Parkview 7 p.m. — Dacula vs. Grayson Thursday Noon — Jonesboro vs. Rockdale 1:45 p.m. — Parkview vs. Peachtree Ridge 3:30 p.m. — Berkmar vs. Alpharetta 5:15 p.m. — Grayson vs. North Cobb 7 p.m. — Buford vs. Dacula

game against Archer as good as they are.”

The Archer matchup was particularly tough because the Tigers’ strength, height on the interior, is a Grayson weakness. But Potter was pleased with how her team battled, again going back to

rebounding and defense as main points of emphasis.

Jazmin Robinson has given the team an offensive lift thus far, while point guard Amaris Jones has been important in pushing the tempo.

Potter hopes her team

Okogie

gram was one of his top priorities after taking the off to a good start in that Tech job. pursuit.

“He’s just a worker. He’s Through his first 10 a grinder. I mean, the guys college games heading just a workaholic,” Pastner into Thursday night’s said. “He’s got tremendous game against Wofford work ethic, and he wants at McCamish Pavilion, to be great. Because of his the 6-foot-4 freshman is drive internally, I think not only Tech’s secondhe’s got a chance to be a leading scorer, he also really good player.” the second-leading scorer That work ethic is someamong all Atlantic Coast thing Okogie has carried Conference freshmen with with him since his high an average of 14.4 points school career, when he per game. helped Shiloh to a pair of Okogie ranks among Region 8-AAAAAA chamthe top ACC freshmen in pionships and three berths rebounding (4.2 rpg) and in the Class AAAAAA steals (1.4 spg), and has state tournament, including added 1.4 assists per game the Generals’ first trip to and a 73.3 free-throw the Final Four. shooting percentage which However, he was well has made a valuable part aware he would have to of Pastner’s rebuilding job take that work ethic to with the Jackets’ program. a new and higher level In addition, his 38-point in order to survive and effort in Tech’s win over thrive on the college level, Tulane on set a new though even he is surschool record for most prised by how well has points in a single game done so thus far. by a freshman, breaking “(Shiloh coach Kim the old mark of 33 shared Rivers) was talking about

by Mark Price and Dion the difference between Glover.But it is how he the speed of the (college) has gotten those results game and that I needed that convinced Pastner that to get my body equipped keeping him in the proto be able to play at the

next level. To be honest, I didn’t know I’d have such a good start.

“My own goal was to actually gain some weight. I came in here at 198 (pounds), and I’m currently at 215. The first couple of weeks, I probably boosted about 10 pounds. … At first, it was kind of hard because my body wasn’t used to all that weight. My knees started hurting, but as I kept running and conditioning, my body started getting used to it. It’s been better for me because I’ve been able to absorb hits and play with more force and energy.”

While playing with force and energy has helped Okogie get off to a big start to his college career, those qualities have also exposed the area of his game that still requires plenty of room for improvement.

The force and energy he plays with has made him adjust to the speed of the college game, but it has also made him work too fast at times.

However, Pastner says he and Okogie are working

to get him to slow down, and more importantly, he says he doesn’t mind letting his freshman star learn on the job, even with the occasional hiccups, in order for him to maximize his potential down the road.

“He’s not seeing some things in front of him,” Pastner said. “Like some of those fastbreaks, he’s got three defenders in front of him. He’s got to know when to attack and when to attack and pass it, as well. That’s just a part of growing and maturing and becoming a better player.

“Like I’ve been saying (all season), he’s going to have highs and lows. He’s a freshman, but the biggest gains you make are between your freshman and sophomore years. He’ll go through this year and understand what he needs to do to be really, really good next year. … The amount of time he’s going to play this year, I’m going to let him play through mistakes.

So by next year, he’s really not going to be a sophomore. He’s really going to be like a junior just based on minutes he plays.”

Southern California Trojans tight end Daniel Imatorbhebhe (88) carries the ball against the Oregon Ducks this season. (Photo: Kirby Lee-USA Today Sports)

•From Page 1B

Debut

surreal. USC plays in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 2 against Penn State.

“Making it to the dream school that me and (my younger brother) Josh (now a USC wide receiver) set for ourselves has been what keeps me motivated,” Imatorbhebhe said. “As soon as I stepped foot here I was like ‘Man, everything I’ve been working for has been paying off.’ I walk around every day super grateful that I get to be on the same campus as players such as Reggie Bush and Fred Davis, players I grew up watching and wanting to be like.”

While a player on North Gwinnett, Imatorbhebhe said his confidence exploded when the team made it to the state championship his junior year and he was offered a scholarship by an SEC titan despite not getting as many “looks” as he would have preferred.

“We had such a stacked team, guys like Nate Brown (Missouri), and Caleb Scott (Vanderbilt) who were getting a lot of the looks so when Florida offered I was surprised, but it also let me know that I could play at a high level,” he said.

Conviction notwithstanding, the photography enthusiast who so enjoys the sun’s rise and fall that he occasionally hiked Stone Mountain for a better view, knew the boisterous stadium off 20 Level Creek road would differ substantially from the tailgating, the national TV cameras and the nearly 100,000 orange and blue clad frenetic faithful pack-

ing the stands at 157 Gale Lemerand Drive in Gainesville.

“I remember my first time in The Swamp (at Florida) I was literally like scared,” he said, “The stadium was rocking when we were in the tunnel and I remember thinking, just, ‘Wow.’” That apprehension quickly waned as he grasped hold of his new reality and the pressures that came with it.

And as for his brother?

USC true freshman wide receiver, and proud owner of a standing 47inch vertical leap. Josh Imatorbhebhe?

Despite not currently being in the rotation, big brother thinks he’ll be just fine. “(Josh’s) taking all of this in stride, just letting the process run its course,” Daniel Imatorbhebhe said, “I think it’ll be great when he gets that chance to be able to show what he can do and help contribute to the team’s success.”

Support for his sibling aside, the economics major who cites “Crazy Love” by Franis Chan as his favorite read, will continue doing the things most consider atypical for an athlete at a high profile university — taking trips down the coast, watching the sun descend into the ocean or merely relaxing in his dorm room, alone.

All are options that suit him just fine.

“Sometimes me and my teammates will get together and go to the Santa Monica Pier or Malibu and just look out at the water,” he said.

“The sunsets are pretty sick at night.”

Bakker

•From Page 1B CT: You wear No. 29 here.

SB: Yeah, 19 was taken when I got here so I just switched it up, see if it would help me score any more goals. (smiling) It hasn’t worked yet.

CT: I thought maybe you wanted to be a goalie.

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

SB: I played junior in my hometown and then I was lucky enough to play at Carleton University for five years, which is also in Ottawa. So my first year playing away from home was my first year pro in Wheeling.

CT: Your family must have gotten to see you play a lot then.

SB: Growing up they were at just about every game. When I left, they still find time to come to a lot of games. They like to travel for hockey and my brother has pretty much taken over the farm so they have a little more spare time. They’re looking forward to coming down to Atlanta for sure. They’re already planning it.

improves even more Tuesday through Thursday at the Grayson Rams Classic, which also features Gwinnett teams Berkmar, Buford, Dacula, Parkview and Peachtree Ridge.

Grayson opens Tuesday with Alpharetta (7-5), then has a Wednesday rematch with Dacula, which beat the Rams 51-44 on Dec. 3. The Thursday finale pits Grayson against 9-1 North Cobb.

“I’m looking for more consistency, just continuing to play together,” Potter said of her hopes for the three-day event. “That’s the thing. So many of them are just coming in and have never played together.

Going through those three games, getting playing time together, more consistency, will help. Executing the offense and defense a little better. Being able to change defenses when we make those changes. Those kind of things, playing consistently and hustling. They’re working hard and their attitude’s been good.”

The Atlanta Gladiators acquired forward Shane Bakker from Wheeling in late September and he spent the beginning of the season with their AHL affiliate in Providence after making a good impression in training camp. (Photo: Amanda Hertel)

looking at the hockey program there. It was the most appealing to me. They’re a pretty competitive school and they take their hockey seriously so it was kind of an easy decision from there.

CT: It’s right in Ottawa?

SB: Right downtown.

So it’s a half hour from my house so it was nice being close to home. I’d say the hockey program is really what enticed me.

CT: Did you finish your degree?

SB: I did. I got my honors in psychology and a minor in geography. I kind of wanted to be a teacher growing up, but I think I’ll try out this hockey thing for a while.

CT: How did you decide on Carleton?

SB: After playing junior, I thought it was important CT: What was your to get my education, so first pro game like?

I applied to a couple of SB: (laughing) Funny universities. I got accepted story. I was a healthy there and then started scratch for a while with

it being my first year so I finally got to be in my first pro game and my parents came down to Wheeling.

All my buddies back home had the computer hooked up to watch.

I went out on my first shift and hit somebody at center ice. I broke his collarbone and I knocked myself out. So I played about 20 seconds in my first pro game, I had one hit and I woke up in a hospital bed.

I had a concussion for a week. It’s been smooth sailing since, but it was a rough start. I went out there really trying to have a big affect and start out with a bang. I did. Literally.

CT: How was Wheeling?

SB: I loved it. It’s a small town, a hockey town so I enjoyed it. I was fortunate enough to have Clark Donatelli as my coach there and he really helped

my develop in my first couple of years.

CT: That must have been a long trip to the AHL since you were called up to St. John’s (in Newfoundland)?

SB: I flew out of Wheeling and it was a six-hour flight to this little airport right on the coast. There’s fog everywhere. The plane was shaking. It’s kind of scary. But it was an awesome city to be in.

CT: Were all 11 games all in the same call-up?

SB: Yeah, I spent about two months there.

CT: Is there a lot of road travel?

SB: You’re two weeks at home then two weeks on the road. So I was there for two road trips. I enjoyed it, staying in the hotel, on the bus together, it’s a fun two weeks and it brings the team together.

CT: You play a tough game. Has that always been the case?

SB: Since junior and university, I added that element to my game. I’m not the most skilled guys out there so I try to be physical and create energy and create space for my teammates that way. I’m not a goon, but I pride myself on being hard to play against.

CT: You got a Gordie Howe hat trick, which these days is not that easy to get because of a lack of fighting.

SB: Well it’s really hard for me, too, because I don’t score a lot. (laughing) So that makes it really hard for me to get.

But it was nice. I use (my physicality) to motivate my team and to chip in with a goal and an assist is always a bonus for me, too.

CT: What was your nickname before arriving in Atlanta (with Drew Baker on the roster)?

I’m assuming it wasn’t 2K? SB: Yeah, it’s pretty much always been Bakes.

When I was in (AHL) Hamilton, because they’re part of the (Montreal) Canadiens organization, they always called me Double K. They thought it was funny and they’d say it in their French accents.

When I got here and saw there was another Baker, I said sometimes guys call my Double K. It’d evolved into 2K.

CT: How’s the South treating you?

SB: I love it here. We live in a really nice area and being close to the mall, there’s always something to do.

CT: Yes or no to sweet tea?

SB: I’m a no.

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

SB: We play a lot of cards. Shnarpes. I love playing. I’m pretty bad at it but I love chirping the guys. Someone is being made fun of during every

hand.

CT: You can’t give up your spot in the game with other people waiting to jump in, can you?

SB: I think I spend the least amount of time in my bunk than anyone. I like being out in the mix and playing cards.

CT: Have you binge watched anything lately?

SB: I’m roommates with Shiplo and we have a ritual where we cook something every night, maybe have a glass of wine and binge watch episodes of “New Girl.” It’s kind of a slapstick comedy and we just die laughing at the character “Schmidt.”

So we have about a million inside jokes now from that show.

CT: Did you guys start the beginning of the season as roommates?

SB: Right when I got in, we moved in together and hit it off. He’s one of my close buddies on the team.

We’re always hanging put together and getting under each other’s skin. It’s almost like we’re brothers.

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

SB: I love everything, but I really like listening to country music. I grew up listening to it.

CT: If you could be front-row at a concert?

SB: There’s a list of a million I could give you.

But I’m going to have to go Garth Brooks.

1223_GDP_FRI_CLASS_Classifieds 12/22/2016 4:36 PM Page B6

gwinnettdailypost.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016 • B6

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

CONSTRUCTION/ SERVICE BIDS ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS City of Peachtree Corners 147 Technology Parkway, Suite 200 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 SIDEWALKS ALONG JAY BIRD ALLEY & TECHNOLOGY PARKWAY Separate sealed Bids for the construction of Technology Parkway Pedestrian Improvements will be received by the City of Peachtree Corners, Georgia at Peachtree Corners City Hall located at 147 Technology Parkway, Suite 200, Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092 until 2:00 P.M. local time, January 13, 2017, and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud. The project generally consists of sidewalk improvements including shoulder grading and concrete sidewalk.

The Contract Documents, consisting of Advertisement for Bids, Information for Bidders, Bid, Bid Security, Agreement, General Conditions, Supplementary Conditions, Payment Bond, Performance Bond, Notice of Award, Notice to Proceed, Change Order, Drawings, Certificate of Substantial Completion, Specifications and Addenda may be examined at the following locations: City of Peachtree Corners McGraw-Hill Online Plan Room 147 Technology Parkway www.construction.com/projectcenter/ Suite 200 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 AGC Builders Exchange 4485 South Atlanta Road Keck & Wood, Inc. Smyrna, Georgia 30080 3090 Premiere Parkway Suite 200 CMD (formerly Reed Construction Data) Duluth, Georgia 30097 (Online Plan Room) Phone: (678) 417-4000 www.cmdgroup.com In order to assure that Bidders receive all addenda and or clarifications to the bid documents in a timely manner, it is highly recommended that all bidders obtain at least one complete set of Bid Documents directly from the Engineer. Entities that do not purchase Bid Documents from the Engineer will not be on the Engineer’s plans holder list and will not receive addenda and or clarifications to the bid documents directly from the Engineer. Bidders relying on plans rooms or other services to obtain the Bid Documents, rather than purchasing them directly from the Engineer, are doing so at their own risk. Sets of the Bid Documents may be obtained at the office of Keck & Wood, Inc., the Engineer, upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of $100.00 for each set. Bidders may also purchase a CD containing Bid Documents in PDF format for a nonrefundable fee of $25.00.

S/ Greg Ramsey P.E., Public Works Director City of Peachtree Corners December 1, 2016 902-459593, 12/9,16,23

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE NOTICE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE REQUEST An application for a retail beer wine and Sunday sales has been filed with the City of Norcross Georgia by the following location to wit: Applicant/Owner: FAIZ A CHOUDHURY Business Name: CITGO FOOD & GAS Location: 1804 BEAVER RUIN RD., NORCROSS GA 30071 904-459491, 12/16, 21,22,23,28,29,30,1/4,5,6 ALCHOLIC BEVERAGE _________________ NOTICE OF BEVERAGE LISCENCE REQUEST An Application for an alcoholic beverage permit to service beer and wine has been filed with the city of Norcross, Georgia by the following party at the following location, to wit Application Owner: Salima Alzargan Registered Agent: Jallauddin Noorani Business Name: Mobil Buford Location: 5496 Buford Hwy Norcross, GA 30071 9 0 4 - 4 6 0 8 3 6 , 12/21,22,23,28,29,30,1/4,5, 6,11 ALCHOLIC BEVERAGE _________________ NOTICE OF BEVERAGE LISCENCE REQUEST An Application for an alcoholic beverage permit to serve beer, wine and distilled spirits has been filed with the city of Norcross, Georgia by the following party at the following location, to wit Application Owner: PANKAJKUMAR RAMANBHAI PATEL Registered Agent: MUNIRA ALI Business Name: VP FOOD INC Location: 5245 LANDFORD PARK DR STE E NORCROSS, GA 30071 9 0 4 - 4 6 1 9 1 1 , 12/23,28,29,30,1/4,5, 6,11,12,13

PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE To all persons claiming an interest in : 1994 – 20 HP – MERCURY – 0G054444 Mike Healy will apply to SCDNR for title on watercraft/outboard motor. If you have any claim to the watercraft/outboard motor, contact SCDNR at 803-7343858. Upon thirty days after the date of the last advertisement if no claim of interest is made and the watercraft/ outboard motor has not been reported stolen, SCDNR shall issue clear title.

Case No. 20161201950854 928-460726, 12/21,22,23

PUBLIC HEARINGS

PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS

PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS

NOTICE OF ABANDONED VEHICLE The following motor vehicle, advertised pursuant to O.C.G.A. Code Section 4011-2, is being stored at: (Address) 2200 LEE PATRICK DR, DACULA GA 30019 2003 DODGE RAM 2500 VIN# 3D3KU28C83G850716 This vehicle is deemed abandoned and will be disposed of if not claimed by the legal owner or lienholder by (Date) 12/13/2016.

928-460337, 12/16,23

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 Road Norcross, Georgia 30092 to satisfy a lien on January 12,2017 at approx. 2:00 PM at www. storagetreasures.com Cube #154, Paul Long; Cube #360, Wendy Brant; Cube #449, Tom Clatts; Cube #448, Joseph Lloyd Stancil; 929-461121, 12/23,30

Catrice Neely 6248 Clothes, shoes, baskets, baseball bat Jon Christopher 6257 Artwork, dehumidifier, crutches, tables, dresser, totes, boxes Ben Moore 6282 Boxes, speakers, bike, chairs, tv stand, dresser Jennifer Connelly 8219 Totes, Clothes, hats, shoes, purses Tiffany Posten 8221 Table, microwave, boxes, bag, shelfs, artwork, lamps Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

929-461058, 12/23,30

NOTICE OF ABANDONED VEHICLE The following motor vehicle, advertised pursuant to O.C.G.A. Code Section 4011-2, is being stored at: (Address) 3878 BUFORD HWY, NORCROSS, GA 30093 2010 KIA RIO VIN# KNADH4A38A6647218 This vehicle is deemed abandoned and will be disposed of if not claimed by the legal owner or lienholder by (Date) 12/13/2016.

928-460336, 12/16,23 STATE BAR OF GEORGIA STATE DISCIPLINARY BOARD NOTICE OF INVESTIGATION SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: James Edward Rambeau, Jr. Georgia State Bar No. 592845 Re: Office of General Counsel File No. 160247 A Notice of Investigation has been issued in accordance with Bar Rule 4-204.1 based upon a grievance filed against you. Service of a Notice of Investigation by publication is authorized by Bar Rule 4-204.2.

Pursuant to Bar Rule 4-204.3(a), you are required to file with the Investigative Panel member assigned to investigate the grievance filed against you a written response to the Notice of Investigation within 30 days of December 30, 2016.

Pursuant to Bar Rule 4-204.3(d), your failure to answer the Notice of Investigation may result in your suspension from the practice of law in Georgia until an answer is filed.

928-460582, 12/23,30

PUBLIC SALES/ AUCTIONS NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Notice is hereby given that Extra Space Storage will sell at public auction at the storage facility listed below, to satisfy the lien of the owner, personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at location indicated: 2044 Old Norcross Road, Lawrencville GA 30044, 770845-1926 on 1-10-17 at 3PM Unit 108C Theodore Ntegmi Bikes, Large Printers, Mattress, Box springs, Sink, Shelving, Kitchen Chairs Unit 129D Ashiya Wright Couch, Shelving, Boxes, Mattress, Box Springs, Totes, Chair Unit 335 Antwanette Hasan Mattress, Stereo, Boxes, Bags, Totes, Cooler, Table, Shelving Unit 340 Cynthia Fabela Mattress, Box Springs, Toys, Bike, Large Mirror, Totes, Boxes, Clothes, Bags Unit 520G Tiffani Porter Chair, Bags, Boxes, Clothes, Appliances, Bed, Lamp Unit 523H Alquan Shakur Boxes, Clothes, Totes, Chairs, Pots and Pans, Bags Unit 6C03 Candida Figueroa Mattress, Box Springs, Bags, Boxes, Fica Tree, Bags, Luggage The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to general household, furniture, boxes, clothes, and appliances.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

929-460083, 12/16,23 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 on 01/11/2017 at approx.

10:00AM at www.storagetreasures.com.

Name Unit # Sonia Burke A028 Naim U Syde B002 Sothern States Equipment B002 Juana Herebia B077 Erika Mead B107 Jason Smith B086 Melissa Walker C054 Jorge M Mejia D050 Nikki L Stewart E031 Francisca Mendoza D046 929-461084, 12/23,30

Please Recycle This Newspaper NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: The following self-storage Cube contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by CubeSmart [3494 Gwinnett Place Dr.] to satisfy a lien on [January 12th, 2017] at approx. [2:00PM] at www. storagetreasures.com Cube# 1122-24 Sylvia J Tunstall Cube# 2029 Linda L Macdonald Cube# 2040 Geoffrey A Terry Cube# 2045 Sophia N Marable Cube# 2063 Tamika Bonds Cube# 2073 Earlene Gipson Cube# 2167 Sophia N Marable Cube# 3056 Zakarya Almariri 929-461102, 12/23,30

PUBLIC AUCTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OCGA 40-11-2 D & D AUTOMOTIVE CARE, INC., WILL HOLD AN AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING VEHICLE(S): 2004 BMW X3 2.5 WBXPA73434WC36105 1999 GMC SAVANA G1500 1GDFG15R3X1156021 WILL BE AUCTIONED ON JANUARY 12, 2017 AT 10 AM. AT 504 BRASELTON HWY LAWRENCEVILLE, GA 30043 *7581,82 929-461922, 12/23,30 MCCULLOUGH TOWING AUCTION LIST 770-263-8483 785 BROGDON RD. SUWANEE, GA 30024 SATURDAY, JANUARY 7TH 2017@ 1:00PM 2002 Acura 3.5 RL JH4KA96502C012131 2000 BMW 323i WBAAM3343YFP73883 2003 Chevrolet S-10 1GCCS14XX38118406 2002 Chevrolet Suburban 3GNEC16Z62G308739 2007 Chrysler 300C 2C3LA63H17H800136 2004 Chrysler Pacifica 2C4GM68444R512546 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 3C4FY58B65T572917 1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1B7HC16X0WS580383 2005 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 1D7HA18N75S360910 2001 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 1B7HC16X91S227293 2003 Ford Crown Victoria 2FAHP71W33X161917 2007 Ford Taurus 1FAFP53U67A162212 2000 Ford Mustang 1FAFP42X0YF216548 2001 Ford Excursion 1FMNU42S71EC36595 2002 Honda Civic 1HGEM22922L100461 2000 Honda Passport 4S6CK58W7Y4411593 2000 Honda Accord 1HGCG5661YA055971 1998 Honda Accord 1HGCG225XWA008351 1998 Honda Accord 1HGCG565XWA008605 2001 Honda Accord JHMCG56631C029766 2002 Isuzu Rodeo 4S2CK58W524325871 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee 1J4GZ78Y2VC588832 2005 Kia Amanti KNALD124955078873 2005 Lexus RX330 2T2HA31U55C043857 2000 Lexus ES300 JT8BF28G4Y0245561 2005 Mercury Sable 1MEFM55S05A613175 2007 Nissan Sentra 3N1AB61E77L706426 2001 Subaru Outback 4S3BH665716631835 2011 Volkswagen Golf WVWMM7AJ6BW010733 2006 Volkswagen Jetta WVWAK73C16P044277 2003 Volkswagen Jetta 3VWSE69M43M019054 929-461505, 12/23,30 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Notice is hereby given that Extra Space Storage will sell at public auction at the storage facility listed below, to satisfy the lien of the owner, personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at location indicated: 4257 Buford Dr, Buford, GA 30518, 770-846-1522 @ 1:00 PM January 9, 2017 Ernest Jackson 608 Antique Stove, coolers, tent, totes, boxes, toys Richard Booker 6101 Chairs, TV, Boxes, Totes, weights, fake plants Conswella Benson 6206 Bikes, clothes, Dryer, Washer, TV, pictures, boxes, totes Jon Christopher 6233 Mattresses, boxes, trunks, pictures, couch, table

ZONINGS

ZONINGS ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS GWINNETT JUSTICE & ADMINISTRATION CENTER 75 LANGLEY DRIVE, LAWRENCEVILLE, GA 30045 HEARING DATE: 1/10/2017 PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:30 P.M. CASE NUMBER ZVR2016-00085 APPLICANT BRET SKIRVIN / SITE ENHANCEMENT SERVICES LOCATION 2744 HAMILTON MILL RD, BUFORD, GA 30519 ZONING C2 PARCEL 1001 032 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Retail Business VARIANCE TYPE Wall Sign Area Increase VARIANCE REQUEST INCREASE ALLOWABLE SIGN AREA ON FRONT ELEVATION FROM 60 SQ FT TO 88 SQ FT COMMISSION DISTRICT 4 CASE NUMBER ZVR2016-00125 APPLICANT SAULO ORDONEZ LOCATION 1511 BROOKS RD, DACULA, GA 30019 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 5247 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 100 FT (LOT 1) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2016-00126 APPLICANT SAULO ORDONEZ LOCATION 1511 BROOKS RD, DACULA, GA 30019 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 5247 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 100 FT (LOT 2) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2016-00127 APPLICANT SAULO ORDONEZ LOCATION 1511 BROOKS RD, DACULA, GA 30019 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 5247 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 100 FT (LOT 3) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2016-00128 APPLICANT SAULO ORDONEZ LOCATION 1511 BROOKS RD, DACULA, GA 30019 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 5247 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 100.43 FT (LOT 4)

COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2016-00129 APPLICANT SAULO ORDONEZ LOCATION 1511 BROOKS RD, DACULA, GA 30019 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 5247 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 103 FT (LOT 5) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00001 APPLICANT DEEJAY JOHNSON LOCATION 4035 BUCKLEY WOODS DR, NORCROSS, GA 30093 ZONING RTH PARCEL 6176B122 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Single-Family Dwelling Addition VARIANCE TYPE Combined Front/Rear Setback Reduction VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE TOTAL FRONT / REAR SETBACK FROM 75 FT TO 58.9 FT COMMISSION DISTRICT 1 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00002 APPLICANT BETSY W. KILGORE LOCATION 3428 & 3422 HAMILTON MILL RD, BUFORD, GA 30519 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 7182 069 & 7182 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 40.04 FT (TRACT 3) COMMISSION DISTRICT 4 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00003 APPLICANT BETSY W. KILGORE LOCATION 3428 & 3422 HAMILTON MILL RD, BUFORD, GA 30519 ZONING RA200 PARCEL 7182 069 & 7182 003 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 200 FT TO 43 FT (TRACT 1) COMMISSION DISTRICT 4 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00004 APPLICANT SURVEY SYSTEMS & ASSOCIATES, INC. LOCATION 5558 POPULAR DR, STONE MOUNTAIN, GA 30087 ZONING R100 PARCEL 6078 022 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 100 FT TO 92.4 FT (LOT 3) COMMISSION DISTRICT 2 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00005 APPLICANT SURVEY SYSTEMS & ASSOCIATES, INC. LOCATION 5558 POPULAR DR, STONE MOUNTAIN, GA 30087 ZONING R100 PARCEL 6078 022 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 100 FT TO 92.4 FT (LOT 2) COMMISSION DISTRICT 2 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00006 APPLICANT SAMUEL AND HANNAH KIRKLAND LOCATION 466 AUBURN RD, AUBURN, GA 30011 ZONING R100 PARCEL 2003 209 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Road Frontage Reduction VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED ROAD FRONTAGE FROM 40 FT TO 0 FT (LOT 2) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017 00007

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ZVR2017-00007 APPLICANT SAMUEL AND HANNAH KIRKLAND LOCATION 466 AUBURN RD, AUBURN, GA 30011 ZONING R100 PARCEL 2003 209 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 100 FT TO 0 FT (LOT 2) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00008 APPLICANT SAMUEL AND HANNAH KIRKLAND LOCATION 466 AUBURN RD, AUBURN, GA 30011 ZONING R100 PARCEL 2003 209 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Lot Width VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED LOT WIDTH FROM 100 FT TO 0 FT (LOT 3) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 CASE NUMBER ZVR2017-00009 APPLICANT SAMUEL AND HANNAH KIRKLAND LOCATION 466 AUBURN RD, AUBURN, GA 30011 ZONING R100 PARCEL 2003 209 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Subdividing a Lot VARIANCE TYPE Road Frontage Reduction VARIANCE REQUEST REDUCE REQUIRED ROAD FRONTAGE FROM 40 FT TO 0 FT (LOT 3) COMMISSION DISTRICT 3 934-461159, 12/22 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Planning & Zoning Commission City of Berkeley Lake Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 7:00 PM Berkeley Lake City Hall 4040 South Berkeley Lake Road Berkeley Lake, GA 300963016 Phone: 770.368.9484 The Planning & Zoning Commission of the City of Berkeley Lake will conduct a public hearing at the time and place stated above to receive comments from interested parties concerning the following matter: 1.

PZV 16-11, 4295 Dove Point, Applicants / Owners Paul and Robin Sansone, request relief from: a.

Section 78197 (7) to reduce the side setback from 12.5 feet to 11.67 feet for the non-conforming addition of a covered porch to a non-conforming structure.

All interested parties are invited to attend and comments are encouraged.

934-461504, 12/23

FULL TIME CERTIFIED TEACHER/PARAPROFESSIONAL POSITIONS For School Year 2017 At New Life Academy of Excellence www.newlife academyga.com Requirements: • Elementary / Secondary Education Major • Georgia Certified or GACE Candidate Interested Candidates can send Resume to: hr@newlifeacad emyga.com or FAX to 678-957-1256

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HOUSES FOR SALE

HOUSES FOR SALE CONYERS, 30013 1361 TRAVERS CREEK TRAIL

PENDING OFFER APPROVAL! HUD CASE #105-355426 5BR/3 Full Bath Traditional with • 2-Story Entrance that is Very Elegant! • Formal Living & Dining • Oversized Kitchen • Fireside Family Room $162,750 • EHO Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com GRAYSON, GA 30017 1688 SILVERGRASS LANE

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UNDER CONTRACT! HUD CASE #105-684634 3BR & 2.5BA 2-Story Traditional Home with Brick Front. • Fire-Side Family Rm. • Spacious Kitchen w/ Huge Breakfast Eat-In Area. $100,000 • EHO Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com

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25 Temp FT Landscape Wrker Positions 2/20/17-10/15/17.

All applicants must be willing, qualified, to perform wrk described in ad entire period specified. Must be 18 yrs: equipment usage. Transport provided, designated locale to jobsite. Wrksite: start in Suwanee, Gwinnett county, GA: continue: counties of Dekalb, Gwinnett, Forsynth, Cherokee, Cobb, Douglas, Fulton, Fayette, Clayton, Rockdale GA. Poss duties: maintain grounds: public/private property: cut grass, use walking/riding mower, trim hedges & edge around walks, flowerbeds, wells. Prune shrubs/trees.

Spray lawn, shrubs, & trees w/ fertilizer or insecticide.

Plant grass, flowers, trees/shrubs, water lawn & shrub: use hose or activate sprinkler system. Gather & remove litter. Use: hand tools, trimmers, clippers, shears, pruners, and edging tools & othr related Landscape Wrkr activities per SOC/OES 37-3011 (onetonline.org) No min. edu. reqmt. OJT. Poss daily/wkly hrs: 7A-3:30P; 35-40+.

To include breaks. OT avail, not reqd. M-F. Poss wknd/ holiday wrk. Variable weather conditions; hrs may fluctuate (+/-), poss dwntime/OT. Emplyr will comply w/applicable Federal, State, local laws pertaining to OT. Perform physical act: move, manipulate material, use static strength: exert max muscle force to lift up to 50lbs. $12.98/hr OT $19.47/hr. Use/maintain emplyr provided tools/equip./supplies @ no cost/deposit. Attention to detail, complete tasks. Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco free wrk zone. Based on Emplyr’s discretion/cost: Wrkr may have random drug/alcohol test during emplymnt: positive test/ refusal to abide = dismissal. Guaranteed offered wrk hours @ least 3/4s of wrkdays each 12/wk period of total emplymnt period. Transportation: Will provide/pay cost of wrker return transport, subsistence from wrksite to place wrkr departed to wrk for emplyr if wrkr completes period of emplymnt or dismissed from emplymnt before end of wrk period. Transportation & subsistence will be reimbursed (by check 1st wrk wk) for cost place the wrkr has come to wrk for employer, whether in US or abroad, to place of emplymnt.

To apply: send resume/application w/contact info to nearest GA SWA: 2211 Beaver Ruin Rd Ste 160, Norcross, GA 30071 Job Order# 888876845 -ORDavis Landscape Group of Georgia, LLC, Email: jobs@davis-landscape.com Fax: 770-781-9758

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DRASTICALLY REDUCED! Brick Front 2-Story On Huge .66 Corner Lot • New Carpet • Formal Living / Dining Rooms • Open Kitchen • Family Room • 2nd Kitchen in Finished Basement EHO • $229,900 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com MONROE, GA 30656 506 MORGANS LANDING

ELEGANT TRADITIONAL! Lovely 4BR & 2.5BA 2 Story is Simply Elegant!! Open floor plan, family room with firplace and includes an above ground pool.

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1223_GDP_FRI_CLASS_Classifieds 12/22/2016 4:36 PM Page B7

B7 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

gwinnettdailypost.com

GWINNETT COUNTY REAL EST ESTATE STTAATE Homes For For Sale | R Rentals entals | Land | R Remodeling emodeling | Financing | Home me Ser Services

Advertorial Content Sponsored By: NAMAR

NEWSS Q Questions uestions tto oA Ask sk When When Considering Considering Selling Selling

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KICK KICKOFF OFF 2017 a att the NAM NAMAR AR Exp Expo o on JJanuary anuary 19, 2017! owned your your home for for fiv are are mostly interest. interest. But But if you’ve you’ve owned fivee or mor moree ing, moree inf information interested having ving a booth aatt the Expo Expo,, FFor or mor ormation or if yyou’re ou’re in terested in ha yyears, ears, yyou ou ma mayy have have significant, significant, unr unrealized unrealized gains. gains.

AAre re yyou ou ccomf omffortable mo ving inn the current currrent ent housing market? markket? et? comfortable moving Ron Hawley ccontact ontact R on Ha wley aatt rron@namr.org on@namr.org or 770-670-6417.

Booth Booth space space is still available available on a first ccome ome basis basis..

If yyour our mark ket isi hot, hot h , your your home h may sellll quickly and for for top top dollar, d ll , dollar market may Has H as yyour our inc income come ome or financ financial cial ial situ situation sisituation changed? changed? ou buy will also be mor expensive. If your your market market moree expensive.

If yyou’re ou’re mak ing mor money, yyou ou ma ffor ord higher but the home yyou making moree money, mayy be able ttoo aff afford e longer r, , y is slow, slo w , finding a buyer buy er may ma y take tak longer, but you’ll ou ’ll have ha v e more more -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------osts of mo ving. If your your income income mortgage pa yments and ccover over the ccosts mortgage payments moving. winnett County County area, area, the local local REALTORŽ REAL EALLTTORŽ Board Board is the Northeast Northeast Atlanta Atlanta selec tion and bett er pricing as you you seek your your new home. home. Ask Ask your your In the GGwinnett selection better to cconsider onsider do wnsizing. has decr eased, yyou ou may may want want to decreased, downsizing.

Metro Metr o Association A ssocia tion of REALTORSÂŽ REAL T ORSÂŽ (NAMAR).

(NA M AR).

Located L oc a t ed at a t 2145 Duluth D uluth Highway High way real esta te pr ofeessional wha see happening happeningloc locally. real estate professional whatt they see locally.

(Suite (Suite B), Duluth Duluth GA 30097 and on the w web eb aatt w www.namar.org. ww.namar.org.

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CONYERS, GA 30094 3604 Sand Hill Drive

MONROE, GA 30655 242 N. HAMMOND DR.

COMMERCIAL RENTALS

MUSICAL EQUIPMENT

LAWRENCEVILLE

BRING ALL OFFERS! .51 Acre Beautiful Lot Which Has Privacy Fence On Each Side and Chain Link Across The Back.

Previous Home Burned Down But This Lot Has Gas, Sewer, Water, Phone, and Electric.

Access To Honey Creek Clubhouse & Amenities Available For Additional Fee $19,500 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealty professionals.com

NEW COMMERCIAL PROPERTY!!

Great Commercial Location For Your New Church, Daycare, Hair Salon Or Office Space.

Space Has 3 Large Rooms, Utility Room, & 1 Full Bath & 4 Half Baths. $120,000 • EHO

DO YOUR SHARE

HOUSES FOR RENT

Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

LAKE/RIVER/COASTAL PROPERTY FOR SALE

GORGEOUS LAKE LOT! Beautiful Shaded Lake Lot With Hardwoods With Great Views of Lake Oconee.

EHO • $245,000 Peters Realty Professionals 770-466-2885 www.petersrealtyprofessionals.com

APPLIANCES DOGS APPLIANCES DRYER/WASHER $125 ea.; Super Capacity $175 ea.

Front Loader Set $450 & up; Regular Refrig. & Ranges $175 & up; SXS Refrig. $300 & up.

Dishwasher $100 & up. Different colors.

Del/1 yr warr.

Tim 404-205-2222

ALL OAK FIREWOOD FOR SALE $120 “Heaping Truckload�, Stacked, Gwinnett Area.

404-805-1783

APTS/DUP/CONDOS/ T’HOMES FOR RENT

PIANO Story & Clark. Very Nice. Have truck, if you have muscles. $500.

Credit Cards Accepted.

770-962-7633 PETS/LIVESTOCK

FIREWOOD

Gwinnett, Grayson 3BR/2BA $1100/month plus $900/deposit.

Call 678-313-9190.

EATONTON, GA 31024 210 RIVER LAKE DR.

OFFICE/ WAREHOUSES SPACE AVAILABLE 750 to 3600 sf Mike 404-375-5438.

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPS AKC Ready to go January 6. AKC German Shepherd pups-Black / Black Sable. Parents on site.

Working lines.Hannes Vom Spadener Holz.

1st shots and worming. $800. 770-316-4110 Commerce.

VEHICLES

FIREWOOD Seasoned Oak & Hickory.

Delivery or Pick Up. Call For Prices.

770-962-8744 AUDI A4, 1999 BLACK $3500 65K MILES CONTACT MARCO AT 404-428-5607

GWINNETT DUPLEXES

2 Communities!

One on Singleton Road & One on Law’ville-Suwanee Road! 2BR & 3BR, 2BA, Fireplace, Vaulted Ceilings, Off Street Parking.

Starting @ $900/mo.

B.C. PROPERTIES 770-446-1550 770-995-8828 MOBILE HOMES & LOTS FOR RENT BARROW-AUBURN 1-2-3 BEDROOMS IN MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY. Rent Starting at $100/ week. Large Lots.

770-513-3151

FURNITURE/ HOUSEHOLD GOODS DINING ROOM TABLE, Chairs & China Cabinet, Oak, $500. Fridge, Misc.

Furniture, Tools and 16’ & 24’ Ladders.

770-235-3062 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT

KIMBELL PIANO Approximately 18 years old. Very good condition, well cared for. $550. 770-483-5550

CHRIS IST STTMAS MA A D DEA EA AD DLLIIN NE ES

PUBLICATION DATE

CHEVROLET MALIBU, 2010 All power, garage kept, new tires. Exc. cond.

4 door, 50k miles. $12,000. 770-490-3265

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Gwinnett Daily Post Classifieds just call: 770.962.7355 HONDA, ACCORD, 2002. 96k miles.

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770-616-7399 JAGUAR, S-TYPE, 2003 Elderly owner, like new, loaded, garage kept. $3995.

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8B • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

gwinnettdailypost.com

SUBARU

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we Songs of Gwinnett Daily Post

weekend entertainment

the

FRIDAY DECEMBER 23, 2016

season

Banks & Shane, music guests to perform holiday shows — 3C

10 spot the

Everyone has that song that gets them in the Christmas spirit. Here are the top 10 Christmas songs according to the website TheTopTens. com. Check to see if your favorite makes the list.

• “Jingle Bell Rock” • “White Christmas” • “Silent Night” • “All I Want for Christmas is You” • “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”

Seasons greetings

• “Do They Know It’s Christmas” • “Jingle Bells” • “The Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) • “O Holy Night” • “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town”

A family gets to know a new face this holiday in ‘Why Him?’ — 8C

a look ahead

Friday, Dec. 30 • Winter Break Art Camp — Pack a lunch and drink for Eye Candy Art Studio’s day camp featuring tie-dye projects from 10 a.m to 2 p.m in Duluth. $45 per student, which includes art supplies. Call 678-714-5683 for more information.

• Bert’s Big Jump at SkyZone — From 8 to 10 p.m., 50 percent of proceeds from ticket sales at metro Atlanta indoor trampoline park locations will go toward Bert’s Big Adventure, a nonprofit that sends children with a chronic or terminal illness and their families on trips. Call 404-7417100 for more information.

Saturday, Dec. 31 • Flashlight 5K — Participate in the run/walk at First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville starting at 6 p.m. to benefit the nonprofit Family Promise of Gwinnett County, an effort to fight homelessness. Register now to avoid increased fees as the event day approaches. Call 678-376-8950 for more information.

• A Medieval New Year’s Eve — Travel back in history at Medieval Times in Lawrenceville at this family friendly latenight show beginning at 9:30 p.m. with a live tournament, feast, party favors, entertainment, and a balloon drop countdown and toast at midnight. The event costs $70.95 (plus tax) for adults and $36.95 (plus tax) for children. Call 1-888935-6878 for more information.

COME OUT AND PLAY IN SUWANEE

454282-4

SMILING FACES MEEt

UNIQUE PLACES

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING FUN TO DO!

SUWANEE.COM

2C • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

gwinnettdailypost.com

dining

dish the

Armando’s Caribe 3170 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 195, Duluth 770-232-9848 armandoscaribe restaurant.com

A popular dish at Armando’s Caribe, a Latin restaurant in Duluth, is Paella Valenciana — yellow rice sautéed with baked chicken thigh, Spanish smoked sausage, calamari, a secret combination of spices and more. (Staff Photo: Erika Wells)

BY ERIKA WELLS

erika.wells @gwinnettdailypost.com

Owner: Armando Camacho Open since: 2003 Location: Abbott’s Bridge Crossing shopping center near the intersection of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard and Ga. Highway 120 Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday Atmosphere: The casual family friendly restaurant is island-themed with everything from parrot to palm tree designs.

Guests can eat outdoors under a covered patio or in the dining rooms and bar area, a recent addition.

“I love my customers; they’ve always been happy with what we offer,” owner Armando Camacho said. “They say they like the way we treat people.

We’re different from other restaurants; we all feel like a family.”

Most of the time, Camacho can be found chatting with customers, lending a hand in the kitchen or delivering food and drink orders. Take out and catering options are available.

Dinner prices are slightly higher than lunch.

The soft lighting balances the brightly painted walls. During the daytime, racked wine and shelved liquor bottles shine in the sunlight. Wall-mounted TVs are scattered throughout the restaurant for customers to keep up with game scores or current events.

Menu: Camacho has

ON THE MENU Cuban Sandwiches. $12-$13. Traditional, Reuben, vegetable, fish, sausage, steak, pork.

Cuban Grills and Paella. $10-$19. Chicken, steak, pork chops and tender pork, shredded and ground beef, tuna, Mahi-Mahi, salmon, tilapia, vegetables.

Spanish Paella and Rice with Chicken. $14-$17 single serving, $28-$34 double serving. Served in a hot iron skillet. Various seafood, vegetables, chicken, sausage or chicken dishes with seasonings, peppers, garlic, etc.

Appetizers. $4-$12. Dips, fried plantains, wings, potato-crusted calamari, yucca, empanadas, ceviche, sautéed mussels with Spanish sausage.

Salads. $9-$15. Tuna salad, mango salad, chicken salad, Caribe salad, Spinach salad, salmon salad.

Homemade Soups. $4-$8. Chicken soup, shrimp corn chowder soup.

Tacos, Burritos, Enchiladas. $10-$13. Chicken, beef, seafood options, vegetarian.

Quesadillas. $8-$13. Chicken, beef, vegetables, cheese, beans, sausage, shrimp.

Desserts. $4-$6. Flan (custard), churros (fried dough strips), sopapilla (deep-fried pastry), apple empanadas (turnovers), fried ice cream.

created a well-established piece of paradise in the north Atlanta area that leaves customers going back for more.

That desire for authentic Cuban-Caribbean food and Mexican fusion dishes has kept the Duluth restaurant open 13 years. Known as the “Home of the True Latin Flavor,” Armando’s Caribe stands out from its competition, the owner said.

“We have regular customers who have been with us since we opened,” Camacho said. “That must say something good about us.”

But don’t confuse the restaurant’s fare with traditional Jamaican foods such as jerk chicken and oxtails.

Armando’s menu includes a wide selection of entrees, appetizers, salad, soups, paella, desserts, and signature sandwiches, tacos, burritos, enchiladas

and quesadillas.

Menu favorites include the Paella Valenciana made of yellow rice sautéed with baked chicken thigh, Spanish smoked sausage, calamari, shrimp, green bell peppers, onions, pimentos, clam juices and a secret combination of spices.

Other popular choices are the tuna salad, fish tacos, grilled Caribe chicken, and homemade flan, which is a chocolate-andvanilla-flavored custard with a sugar glaze.

“There’s no place like us out there,” Camacho said. “We have a unique concept — something new to offer the community. A traditional Mexican restaurant could open across the street from us, but it just wouldn’t be the same.”

A children’s menu offers quesadillas, tacos, chicken, mini Cuban sandwiches, soup and burritos.

Duluth’s Cuban-Caribbean and Mexican fusion restaurant Armando’s Caribe is known for its authentic traditional Cuban sandwich served with yellow rice and black beans.

Armando’s Caribe specializes in Latin food including Cuban-Caribbean and Mexico fusion dishes at the Abbott’s Bridge Crossing shopping center in Duluth.

The drink variety includes beer, wine, traditional and mixed drinks, premium and specialty margaritas and the wellknown “Oyster Shoot.”

Daily food and drink specials are available.

Something you may not know: A fishpond

filled with goldfish is near the back of the restaurant and is a hit with families who often ask to sit near it when dining in.

Camacho may take a fresh approach and offer new menu items in the future, especially since a new residential commu-

nity is under construction within walking distance from Armando’s Caribe.

The Mexico native has been in America for nearly 30 years. When Camacho opened the restaurant’s doors, he hoped to keep the business family-oriented.

GWINNETT TASTES A selection of local eateries recently featured in the Gwinnett Daily Post: Ovation Cinema Grill 11 Ovation Cinema Grill 11 is a movie theater that offers moviegoers a more upscale dining and entertaining experience — although the people in charge prefer to view it as a restaurant that happens to show the latest movies.

It offers diners two ways to enjoy their meals: At a bar in the lounge before or after a movie, or while they are watching one of the films shown at the theater.

The menu is based an American bistro-inspired collection of original dishes. Popular menu items include the sliders, the Boom Boom Shrimp, Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread and the spicy turkey burger. There are also desserts, such as Funnel Fries, Chocolate Lovin’ Spoon Cake and Blue Bunny Specialty Ice Cream Cups.

The theater also offers a limited children’s menu with items such as chicken tenders and mini corn dogs.

1210 Scenic Highway, Lawrenceville, 770-985-6967 Atlanta Gom BBQ Atlanta Gom BBQ is owned by the same people who own Atlanta Shabu Shabu. Its family- and group-friendly atmosphere serves as a backdrop to its high-quality meats, which can be cooked right at the table. The restaurant claims to be the only Korean BBQ in Atlanta offering Wagu beef,

Chinese, Vietnamese and American, including pizza, crawfish, sushi, soup and dessert. Other seafood includes snowcrab, oyster, clam on the shell and flounder.

2055 Beaver Ruin Road, Norcross, 470-395-3333

Chow King Grill and Buffet, an upscale Asian buffet, opened last month in Norcross on Beaver Ruin Road. The restaurant seats 650 people and serves 250 daily food items. (Staff Photo: Keith Farner) a high-end beef raised in Japan and butchered locally.

1291 Old Peachtree Road N.W., Suwanee, 470-231-2534 SPLAT! (Cakes N’ Such) SPLAT! has a relaxed, rusticmeets-modern feel. There are benches to sit on, as well as table seating and countertop seating.

There’s even a blue couch with green splats of paint all over it in a tribute to the eatery’s name.

SPLAT! offers more than 200 flavors of cupcakes, although not all at the same time. It also sells single-serving cheesecakes, full-size cakes and espresso. Some flavors are labeled “Kid Friendly” while others are intended for the adult with a

“more mature palate,” Nunn said. One example of the adult flavors is “Date Night,” a dark chocolate and red wine cake, she said.

Popular flavors include Date Night, Red Velvet, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Shortcake and SPLAT’s gluten free options.

SPLAT! has one set daily lineup of cupcakes for each month, so certain cupcakes will only be available on one specific day of each week in a month.

2590 Hamilton Mill Road, Suite 107, Buford, 470-326-3198 Chow King The upscale Asian buffet offers 650 seats and serves 250 food items daily. The restaurant has been

busy since opening, and on a recent Tuesday afternoon well past the lunch hour, the lobby was full of the hustle and bustle of employees and customers.

This is the 25th restaurant that owner Yun Da Chen has opened in 30 years, General Manager Gene Leong said. Chen passed by the formerly vacant shopping center space and saw an opportunity, Leong said, so he invested $2 million to remake the space and offer an upscale environment with plenty of seating to keep wait times short.

Chen said each weekend since opening, the restaurant has turned over those 650 seats twice each day.

The restaurant serves food from around the world, including Korean,

Kremo Kremo’s shop takes a minimalist approach to the traditional ice cream shop layout with white walls, wood furniture and wall decorations. An open kitchen approach is also used at the counter where customers place their orders and see their ice cream being prepared.

Kremo serves gourmet ice cream that is rolled in a manner similar to Little Debbie Swiss Rolls (albeit without the coating). Co-owner Tom Nguyen said rolled ice cream originated in Thailand and has been around for a couple of years.

Each ice cream roll is made when the customer places his or her order, which means the preservative-free ice cream is fresh when customers receive it. Employees use natural ingredients to make each flavor, which means if a customer orders strawberry ice cream, the employee will mix in actual strawberry with the cream.

Customers get three toppings and one sauce on their rolls, and the finished product can be served on a waffle cone, a waffle bowl or a soft dough “Kremo Bun.” 2180 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, 470-375-8185

Friday, december 23, 2016 • 3c

gwinnettdailypost.com

arts&entertainment

Delights of the season

banks & Shane, music guests to perform holiday show

By Erika WElls

erika.wells @gwinnettdailypost.com

As Christmas approaches, repeatedly hearing the sounds of the season — Christmas carols — can be anything but jolly.

But performing holiday songs on a stage in front of a large crowd never gets old for the folk and Americana-inspired group Banks & Shane.

The Atlanta-area musicians especially love when the audience joins in.

Group members Burgess Banks and Paul Shane don’t just rush through a few covers and then say “good night.”

They take listeners on a journey with storytelling between songs and special guest artists during their Banks & Shane, Family and Friends Christmas show.

“Our favorite parts of the show are when we do the songs everyone can sing together,” Burgess said.

Known for their highenergy concerts, Banks & Shane will invite concertgoers of all ages to do just that at the Red Clay Music Foundry in downtown Duluth today.

“We play here two to three times a year and we always

sell out,” Burgess said. “We love playing at the Red Clay Music Foundry; it’s one of the area’s real treasures.”

Banks & Shane will feature their favorite Christmas tunes during their show at 3116 Main St. The matinee show will begin at 5 p.m., and the night show, which is almost sold out, is set to start at 8 p.m. Doors will open an hour ahead of showtime.

“The Christmas show is always a fun time, so bring family and friends,” Burgess said. “Children first see us play and then they grow up and end up bringing their children.”

He plays the banjo and guitar and Shane plays the guitar and trombone with band regulars Chuck Shane on drums and bass, Dennis Law on drums, and Jim Durand on the electric and acoustic guitars.

The group will share the stage with many guests including an old friend Benny Boynton on piano and keyboard and the Duluth High School String Quartet and Singers. Harper Harris will add sounds from his harmonica; others include Durands’s wife Vickie Durand who will sing the classic

IF YOU GO What: Banks and Shane, Family and Friends Christmas Where: Red Clay Music Foundry When: 5 and 8 p.m. today More info.: eddieowenpresents.com

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

The two played at the venue several times with founder Eddie Owen, who previously ran a music club for local talent in Decatur.

“He’s also one of Atlanta’s great treasures and a huge promoter and patron of acoustic music,” Burgess said.

But Banks & Shane especially enjoy putting on their holiday season show here in Gwinnett.

“In the past, this has been a really great thing to do,” Burgess said. “We’ve been part of this community for a long, long time, so it’s great to see everyone.

Banks & Shane have played for their fans called “Banks & Shaners” nearly 45 years and have no plans to stop. Burgess, who lives in Roswell, and Shane of Johns Creek have are known

Banks & Shane music group members Burgess Banks, left, and Paul Shane will perform their favorite Christmas songs with special guests at their Banks & Shane, Family and Friends Christmas shows in Duluth today. (Special Photo)

as “Atlanta’s Entertainment Tradition,” according to their website.

“Paul and I starting playing in 1972; for folks to come

®

ATLANTA SYMPHONY HALL 1280 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta 404-733-4900 www.atlantasymphony.org • Dec. 31: University of Georgia • Jan. 5, 7: Stuart Stephenson performs Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto BUCKHEAD THEATRE 3110 Roswell Road, Atlanta 404-843-2825 www.thebuckheadtheatre. com • Dec. 30: JJ Grey and Mofro, Naughty Professor CENTER STAGE THEATER 1374 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta 404-885-1365 www.centerstage-atlanta. com • Dec. 29: Waka Flocka Flame • Dec. 30: KZ • Dec. 30: Drivin’ N Cryin’ EDDIE’S ATTIC 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur 404-377-4976 www.eddiesattic.com • Dec. 23: Joe Gransden’s Big Band Christmas • Dec. 26: David Ryan Harris • Dec. 27: 4 Wheel Drive • Dec. 28: Ella Collier • Dec. 29: Parker Gispert INFINITE ENERGY ARENA 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 770-813-7500 www.infiniteenergycenter. com • Jan. 28: Alan Jackson THE LOFT 1374 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta 404-885-1365 www.centerstage-atlanta. com/shows/the-loft • Dec. 31: Dance Yourself Clean New Year’s Eve Party • Jan. 14: D.R.A.M. • Jan. 17: Riff Raff • Jan. 19: Safetysuit • Jan. 24: Sevyn Streeter

THE MASQUERADE 695 North Ave. N.E., Atlanta 404-577-8178 www.masqueradeatlanta. com • Dec. 23: Big Jesus • Dec. 26: Eddie Rascal • Dec. 27: The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus • Dec. 29: Afton Presents • Jan. 6: Within the Suffering, Jynzo, Lurkgang • Jan. 9: Jesus Piece, Regulate • Jan. 10: Spur PHILIPS ARENA 1 Philips Drive N.W., Atlanta 404-878-3000 www.philipsarena.com • Dec. 31: Old School Hip Hop Festival • Feb. 3: Katt Williams • Feb. 10: Bon Jovi RED CLAY MUSIC FOUNDRY 3116 Main St., Duluth 678-957-7283 www.eddieowenpresents. com • Ongoing: Songwriters Open Mic • Dec. 23: Banks and Shane, Family and Friends Christmas!

• Jan. 7: Callaghan’s Birthday Show with Granville Automatic RED LIGHT CAFE 553 Amsterdam Ave., Atlanta 404-874-7828 redlightcafe.com Ongoing: Jazz Jam with the Gordon Vernick Quartet • Dec. 23: Celebrate! A Terry Boling Farewell Boogie • Dec. 29: Common Difference with Ivory Williams • Dec. 31: The Gilded Age Gala SMITH’S OLDE BAR 1578 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta 404-875-1522 www.smithsoldebar.com • Dec. 23: MC Such and Such • Dec. 24: B.O.B. • Dec. 28: Connor Reed, Carrington Kelso, Karlie Dobbs • Dec. 29: Nathan Nelson, Hayley Gray and the Medicine, James Atwell • Dec. 29: Simo and Thomas Wynn and the Believers • Dec. 30: Andrew Kahrs • Dec. 30-31: Runaway Gin • Dec. 31: Sempre Soul, McCall • Jan. 4: Michigander, Young Edison, Pleasance House, Ben Brinker • Jan. 5: Poison Coats, Von Strantz, Pat Kiloran, God Bless Relative • Jan. 5: Captial Arms and 32 Pints • Jan. 6: Sam Holt Band, Crowfly, Kenny Howes and

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40 WATT CLUB 285 W. Washington St., Athens 706-549-7871 www.40watt.com • Dec. 29: The Dictatortots, Nick Mallis, Los Cantares, Metric Crap Ton • Dec. 31: of Montreal, Yip Deceiver, DJ Princess

• Jan. 25: Dave East • Jan. 28: J Boog

To purchase tickets, visit eddieowenpresents.com or call 404-478-2749.

For more information, visit banksandshane.com.

Give the gift they will love!

Gordon Biersch gift cards make great stocking stuffers!

by venue — Music 37 MAIN 37 E. Main St., Buford 678-288-2030 www.buford.37main.com • Dec. 23: Nevermind — Nirvana Tribute with Guest American Idiots — Green Day Tribute • Dec. 30: Moby Dick — Party Rock

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4C • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

gwinnettdailypost.com

arts&entertainment

First-ever female ringmaster makes history FROM STAFF REPORTS

“Kristen Michelle Wilson wowed us with her powerThe Greatest Show on ful voice and charismatic Earth will see a change in personality,” Feld said. “We command as the first female knew immediately that she ringmaster in its 146-year his- would be able to connect with tory takes the top hat. the audience and bring them Kristen Michelle Wilson along on the Circus Xtreme beat out hundreds of hopeadventure.” fuls in a nationwide audition Wilson will become the process for the role in the 39th ringmaster and join other Ringling Bros. and Barnum top female circus performers & Bailey Presents Circus beginning with the Jan. 12 Xtreme. The show will feature show in Orlando, Fla. new acts as well as original “The Feld Family continfast-paced performances, acues to bring fresh, modern cording to a news release. elements to their productions Wilson stood out among and Circus Xtreme is no excandidates from across the ception,” Wilson said. “To be world, according to Feld the ringmaster of The Greatest Entertainment Executive Vice Show On Earth is a bucket-list President and Ringling Bros. role.”

Producer Alana Feld.

Wilson, a professional

Kristen Michelle Wilson beat out hundreds of candidates who auditioned for the ringmaster spot with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Circus Xtreme.

She will be the firstever female ringmaster and perform in the Atlanta area in February and March. (Special Photo)

BY VENUE — ARTS GWINNETT GWINNETT AURORA THEATRE 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville 678-226-6222 www.auroratheatre.com • Dec. 23: Christmas Canteen 2016 • Dec. 23: A Christmas Carol • Dec. 23: The 12 Dates of Christmas • Through Dec. 29: Jingle Bell Rock • Jan. 12 — Feb. 11: The Mountaintop • Jan. 13-14: Dad’s Does the Burbs HUDGENS CENTER FOR THE ARTS Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 300, Duluth 770-623-6002 www.thehudgens.org • Through Dec. 30: Juried Member’s Exhibition • Dec. 23: Sordid & Sacred: The Beggars in Rembrandt’s Etchings Exhibit INFINITE ENERGY ARENA 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 770-813-7500 www.infiniteenergycenter.com • Feb. 14: Andrea Bocelli with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra • Feb. 23 — March 5: Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey presents Circus Xtreme INFINITE ENERGY THEATER 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 770-813-7500 www.infiniteenergycenter.com • Jan. 12 and 13: School House Rock Jr. • Jan. 15: YMCA Camp High Harbour KUDZU ART ZONE 116 Carlyle St., Norcross 770-840-9844 www.kudzuartzone.org • Through Jan. 12: 10 Year

Celebration Exhibit • Jan. 26: Member Meeting NEW DAWN THEATER Mall Corners, 3650-A Satellite Blvd., Duluth 678-887-5015 www.newdawntheatercompany.com • Jan. 7: Mark Pitt’s Tribute to Elvis-Birthday Concert • Jan. 28: Farewell Performance of Kurt Sutton’s Mark Twain and Mr. Clemens NEW LONDON THEATRE 2338 Henry Clower Blvd., Snellville 770-559-1484 www.newlondontheatre.org • Jan. 20 — Feb. 5: Godspell • Feb. 24 — March 12: Sylvia • March 31 — April 16: Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe

On-Train • Through Jan. 7: Garden Lights • Through Jan. 7: Holiday Model Train Show

singer with a diverse background including theater, will serve as a role model, inspiring children to follow their dreams, according to the release.

She will perform at Philips Arena in Atlanta from Feb. 15 to Feb. 20 and at the Infinite Energy Arena in Duluth from Feb. 23 through March 5.

Admission starts at $15.

For group rates, contact Group Tickets Plus at 678578-5125 or visit www. groupticketsplus.com.

To buy seats at the Infinite Energy Arena, call 770-6262464 or visit InfiniteEnergyCenter.com. For tickets for Philips Arena, call 800-7453000 or visit ticketmaster. com.

Gwinnett photographer explains his artistic eye

ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER 130 W. Paces Ferry Road N.W., Atlanta 404-814-4000 www.atlantahistorycenter. com • Jan. 8: Fulton County 4-H Monthly Meeting • Jan. 9: Magic Monday: Welcome to Atlanta

Art Beat

COBB ENERGY PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta 770-916-2800 www.cobbenergycentre. com • Jan. 5-8: SMITE Console Championship • Jan. 12-15: Shen Yun: Conncecting Heaven and Earth

Gwinnett photographer and artist Bill Mahan creates a work of art every day such as this collage utilizing photography and digital techniques.

(Special Photo)

Holley Calmes

Bill Mahan received his first camera as a teen, and he has continued to view the world with his artistic eye ever since. A resident of Gwinnett for the past 40 years, his career developed SYLVIA BEARD from retail display artist to THEATRE being a well-known Atlanta Buford Community Center, Journal-Constitution photo2200 Buford Highway, Buford journalist.

FOX THEATRE 770-945-6762 660 Peachtree St. N.E., www.bufordcommunity cenHe then created his own Atlanta ter.com photo business before retir404-881-2100 • Jan. 27-28: Squirm Burpee: ing in 2015. Now, he rises at foxtheatre.org A Vaudevillain Melodrama 5 a.m. to begin another day • Through Dec. 31: Holiday of creating visual art, every • Feb. 16 — March 5: Barefoot in the Park presented by Tours day of the year.

• Through Dec. 24: Atlanta Gypsy Theatre Company Referring to his years of Ballet’s Nutcracker photojournalism, Mahan • Dec. 27: 12 Nights of ATLANTA ATLANTA now finds it odd to discuss Christmas, R. Kelly his various art forms.

• Dec. 30: Anthony HamilALLIANCE THEATRE ton and Friends 1280 Peachtree St. N.E., He says, “It seems a little • Dec. 31: Dancing with the strange to be on the other Atlanta Stars Live 404-733-4650 side of the story and not dowww.alliancetheatre.org ing the asking.”

• Through Dec. 24: A Christ- FERNBANK MUSEUM OF His photography career NATURAL HISTORY mas Carol began in 1971 when he 767 Clifton Road N.E., • Through Dec. 24: Courtestarted as a staff photograAtlanta nay’s Cabaret pher for the Atlanta Journal404-929-6300 www.fernbankmuseum. Constitution. He worked as ATLANTA BOTANICAL a photojournalist there until org GARDENS • Dec. 24: Tadpole Tales 1345 Piedmont Ave. N.E., 1986.

• Dec. 31: Noon Year’s Eve Atlanta “I photographed Liberace • Through Jan. 2: The 404-876-5859 and Dolly Parton. I covered World’s Largest Dinosaurs www.atlantabg.org a lot of feature and fashion • Jan. 14: Pirate Day • Through Dec. 24: Rideassignments, plus news and sports. I liked the feature and fashion jobs much better. Features assignments gave me a chance to foster my creative and artistic side.”

The biggest story he covered, start to finish, was the Jimmy Carter presidential campaign, including the inauguration in Washington.

even more dinosaurs

Mahan Photography, his own studio business, gave him opportunity to be creative taking portraits as well as covering corporate events and enjoying studio work.

Now that he has “retired,” he can let his creativity run free, often listening to classical music as he works.

“My goal is to produce art/photography every day, 365 days a year,” he says.

“The digital age has been a blessing for me as a photographer and artist because I can see things quicker, make changes, explore effects and share immediately.”

“Experimentation has been a key element. I like to take common subjects and make them uncommon. I guess my greatest satisfaction is to blur the lines between pure art and photography as seen when I create collages. Here I assemble photos and apply paint or other media. I never quite know what the final image will look like,” he says.

“I love shapes, lines, patterns, shadows and light

play. Something that says ‘Hello!’ to the viewer. I love abstracts and surrealism in addition to scenic landscapes, flowers and plant life.”

Mahan sites his favorites artists for inspiration, including Frank Lloyd Wright, photographers Dorothea Lange, Jerry Uelsmann, and Ansel Adams, painters Salvador Dali and Georgia O’Keeffe.

“Probably my favorite artist of all is Salvador Dali because of his immense painting skills and creativity,” Mahan says. “I would put him at the top. … The only thing I really don’t care to shoot are babies. I love them, but they are little human doughnuts, and I couldn’t get a good picture if I tried all day.”

Fortunately for those who enjoy his daily artwork on Facebook and on Pbase. com, there is enough to see and inspire without photos of toddlers. Mahan is also a member of FineArtAmerica.com where his work is for sale.

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movies

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016 • 5C

Chris Pratt and Jennifer Lawrence star in “Passengers.”

(Photos: Columbia Pictures)

VENTURE THROUGH SPACE There’s many things to like about ‘Passengers’ Passengers (PG-13) ★★★★

PASSENGERS (PG-13) 2 1/2

BY MICHAEL CLARK

Movie Critic

It would be easy and fair to label “Passengers” a cross between “Gravity” and “The Martian,” as both of those movies came out recently and the similarities are numerous.

However, the seeds for “Passengers” were sown back in 2007, and the script had been dwelling in “Development Hell” since that time. To be accurate it also brings with it bits of “Cast Away,” “Interstellar,” “Moon” and “2001.”

The early reviews of “Passengers” have been largely unfavorable — and not altogether without warrant.

There are radical shifts in tone throughout, many implausible (even for sci-fi) plot twists, and the screenplay could have easily been firmed up through a couple more rewrites. That said ,there’s also a lot to like about it, especially the perfor-

mances of leads Chris Pratt and Jennifer Lawrence.

The premise is excellent.

After virtually exhausting the resources on Earth, a company named Homestead has developed new Earth-like planets in galaxies far away.

This requires 120 years of travel time to reach while the passengers lay in a state of induced hibernation. Wealthy people willing to leave it all behind can pay through the nose or, if you’re broke yet have a skill that would add to the overall good of the new colony, you go free but with lots of strings attached.

Aurora (Lawrence) is a writer and one of the former and Jim (Pratt) is an engineer and of the latter. We know this is science-fiction because in no other universe do writers make more than engineers.

Coming with a “Titanic” like guarantee for safety, the ship nonetheless is damaged 30 years after departure during a tussle with some asteroids, which causes one of the 5,000 plus pods to prematurely wake Jim. It doesn’t take long for Jim

her, Jim behaves as if they were just unlucky and slowly gains her trust — and then her heart.

OK, spoiler over — resume reading.

The start of the third act contains the single best scene in the movie and radically changes the dynamic between Jim and Aurora. This is followed by the arrival of a third human via another premature pod release and then a series of events that turns In the Infirmary, Jim (Chris Pratt) and Aurora (Jennifer the riveting psychological Lawrence) realize they have limited options “Passen- drama into a cheesy, thirdgers.” rate action blow-out. Logic takes a permanent powder, to realize he’s the only person spoiler must be discussed, so the characters are fed lines on board who is awake, and if you wish to not know what that are often embarrassing he would have freaked out it is, skip the next paragraph. to hear and at least one the sooner would it not be for the After a year or so of hitting character’s motives goes just presence of Arthur (Michael the bottle, letting himself plain haywire.

Sheen), an android bartender go physically and hygieniOscar-nominated Norwewith no legs who — with cally while wallowing in gian director Morten Tyldum legs — could have easunderstandable self-pity, (“The Imitation Game”) and ily been a character in “The Jim determines Arthur is not his technical staff really did Shining.” Pleasant and polite, enough company, and rather their homework. The design Arthur is also chilly and aloof than dying on a space ship of the ship is sleek yet a tad and often unable to grasp that won’t land for 90 more sterile and the accompanyJim’s more analytical and years, he decides to wake the ing on-screen graphics are philosophical statements. carefully chosen Aurora. Not informative without being In order to properly review letting on to the real reasons intrusive; it is a visual masterthe rest of the movie, a major behind his decision to wake piece. If you see the movie,

GEORGIA DOME

367291

457054-1

JAN 14 & MAR 4 Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2016 Feld Entertainment, Inc. • All trademarks shown are the property of their respective owners.

MonsterJam.com

be sure to do so at an IMAX location.

On a roll after the successes of “Prometheus” and “Doctor Strange,” screenwriter Jon Spaihts (also the upcoming “Van Helsing” and “The Mummy”) is a keen observer of human emotion and nuance, and when kept within purely dramatic confines, his story clicks. It is when faced with blending these elements in with pyrotechnics and such that the narrative takes a sharp nose dive. The tacking on of three endings doesn’t help much either.

What will stir the most water-cooler conversation is the manner and conditions under which Jim and Aurora first meet. While there are clear moral, ethical and legal issues, there are also a few that aren’t so clear and could lead to some testy arguments among viewers.

In the end, “Passengers” is a decent popcorn movie with just enough romance and explosions to satisfy the masses, but it could have been so much more.

(Sony/Columbia)

6C • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

film fans

gwinnettdailypost.com

movies ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ PASS/FAIL Pass: Very good acting throughout; spectacular CGI; tees things up nicely as a fitting prequel to 1977’s original “Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.”

Fail: A bit darker and a lot more violent than last year’s “The Force Awakens,” but great entertainment nonetheless.

Tim Weekley, Suwanee

★★★★ Pass: “Rogue One” complemented the original Star Wars movie so well that I can’t believe it wasn’t made sooner. Visually it was stunning and all the hidden Easter eggs made this fanboy extremely pleased.

WHO WILL LIKE THIS...

STANDOUT PERFORMANCE

EDITOR’S NOTE: Film Fans features local residents reviewing the movie of the week: “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” To be a film fan, email features@gwinnettdailypost.com.

SEE IT NOW OR WAIT

OVERALL IMPRESSION

Felicity Jones does a nice job as main protagonist Jyn Erso, daughter of the engineer who is the brains behind the Empire’s planet-busting Death Star. The rest of the ensemble cast works well together, from Mads Mikkelsen as Jyn’s consciencewracked father Galen and Diego Luna as fellow rebel Cassian Andor.

Who steals the show in “Rogue One” is Alan Tudyk’s voice as K-2SO, a reprogrammed Empire droid with lots of dry wit and serious attitude who provides comic relief throughout the movie. Tudyk has been one busy dude this year with voice-over roles in “Moana,” “Zootopia,” and on TV’s “American Dad.” Forrest Whitaker is OK as ultra-militant rebel leader Saw Gerrera, but speaks with a bizarre, highpitched rasp; it’s a relief that his screen time is rather limited as I found his vocals annoying and distracting.

Star Wars fans of all ages have been waiting with bated breath for “Rogue One” and will not be disappointed. It’s nearly on par with “The Force Awakens” and close behind 1980s “The Empire Strikes Back” as one of the best of the Star Wars franchise flicks.

“Rogue One” is made for the big screen and surround-sound speakers, so plunk down your moolah and make a beeline to your local cinema for this one. The DVD will also no doubt be part of many video libraries for years to come.

The first 30 minutes of “Rogue One” jumped from planet to planet setting up the story that would unfold during the rest of the film. This might annoy even some hardcore Star Wars devotees, but the setup is necessary to make the rest of the movie make sense. There are several nice cameos (courtesy of some really nifty CGI) of characters from the previous flicks, and the ending will make you want to stand and cheer. Overall, “Rogue One” pays due homage to its predecessors yet stands on its own merits and is very true to the original vision of George Lucas.

All of the actors were good but I didn’t think any of them had a breakout performance. My favorite character was the candid/comical sidekick droid, K-2SO.

I believe that all Star Wars fans will be pleased with this movie.

Definitely must be seen on the big screen.

“Rogue One” did the impossible which was to tell a Star Wars story that didn’t have any of our favorite heroes leading the way while keeping it true to the Star Wars universe we all know and love. I was really impressed how entertaining it was and how the story felt new and yet familiar all at the same time. Even the use of CGI characters was done very well. In spite of it’s darker tones, “Rogue One’s” ending was very satisfying. The Force is strong with this one.

Alan Tudyk as the voice of K-2SO provides some much needed comic relief. While it may just be a voice, he adds some humanity and fills in quite nicely as a replacement C-3PO.

Obviously this movie was made for the “Star Wars” crowd, but pretty much anyone who enjoys a popcorn movie and wants to zone out for while would enjoy it, particularly those who are into sci-fi movies such as “Star Trek” and other films in that genre.

While the movie may be lacking, if you’re planning on seeing it, there’s no better way to do so than on the big screen.

There is some fun to be had in the film, but there’s too much focus on backstory and not enough character development. Unfortunately, the whole affair feels formulaic and the fact that we pretty much know how it will end takes away any excitement for the rest of the story.

The actors give it their all, but in the end, the plot feels thin and the movie feels more tedious than adventurous. It’s really a needless addition to the trilogy much like the other three prequels before it, which ends up being very disappointing.

Fail: None.

Kenny Grams, Lawrenceville

★★★★ Pass: The filmmakers succeeded in making yet another Star Wars film that has many of the same elements of the original trilogy without relying so heavily on special effects. There are also a few nice cameos and pretty impressive CGI for the faces.

Ron Adams, Atlanta

Fail: Unfortunately, the film feels a bit formulaic and the pacing seems off. There’s a lot of jumping from planet to planet and it gets a little distracting after a while, so we end up without enough time to have any real character development.

★★★★ DISC SPOTLIGHT

COMING SOON TO OWN

MICHAEL CLARK

Hitchcock/Truffaut Blu-ray (PG-13) Movie: ★★★★ Disc: ★★★★

• “The Dressmaker” (Dec. 27): A stylish woman’s (Kate Winslet) return to her Australian hometown is tinged with a taste for revenge against those who maligned her. (R)

• “The Lion Guard: Life in The Pride Lands” (Jan. 10): The legend of “The Lion King” continues in episodes from the animated Disney Channel and Disney Junior series. (Not rated)

• “Snowden” (Dec. 27): Oliver Stone’s drama casts Joseph Gordon-Levitt as the source of the leak of many classified documents.

(R)

• “Deepwater Horizon” (Jan. 10): In the true drama, Mark Wahlberg plays a supervisor aboard the title oil rig when it’s wracked by an explosion. (PG-13)

• “Blair Witch” (Jan. 3): In a familiar premise, several young people enter a Maryland forest to search for those who vanished in “The Blair Witch Project.” (R)

• “Mr. Robot: Season 2” (Jan. 10): The sophomore round of the acclaimed USA Network series, starring Emmy winner Rami Malek and Christian Slater, comes to home video. (Not rated)

• “Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life” (Jan. 3): A youngster (Griffin Gluck) becomes the unlikely inspiration for a revolt by his fellow students.

(PG)

NOW SHOWING

Arguably two of finest filmmakers of all time, the collected works of Alfred Hitchcock and François Truffaut have influenced every generation that has followed in their wakes. This brilliant documentary from director Kent Jones is based on the book of the same name by Truffaut written over a span of eight days in 1962 during interviews at Hitchcock’s Universal offices. In addition to stock footage, clips and still photos, Jones interviews directors Martin Scorsese, Paul Schrader, Wes Anderson, David Fincher and many others. If you’re already a fan of these two legends or just want get started on a new cinematic journey, this is where you’ll want to begin.

Technical specs: aspect ratio: Widescreen (1.78:1/1080p), audio: English (DTS-HD MA 5.1), subtitles: English, French and Spanish.

Special features include: • 4 featurettes • Q&A • First edition slipcover packaging (Cohen Media Group, $34.98)

Recently reviewed films now playing in metro area theaters. Ratings are out of 4 stars.

• Collateral Beauty (PG-13) — 2 stars Star-studded “Collateral Beauty” feels like a fancier Hallmark Channel Christmas special. It is what you expect during this time of year: a movie that gives you the “feels” and doesn’t leave a dry eye in the place. Will Smith shines as the main character dealing with the loss of his daughter.

— Kristen Hansen • Manchester by the Sea (R) — 2 1/2 stars This deliberate film about grief is a bit of a mess, doling out flashback after confusing flashback. But the performances are spellbinding, especially from lead Casey Affleck. — Khari J. Sampson • Allied (R) — 3 stars Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard star in this period romance/thriller as WWII spies who fall for each other during a mission but find trouble off the battlefield. Effective but a

bit lacking in art. — KS • Moana (PG) — 3 stars “Moana” carves out its own space in the Disney collection by delving into the great Pacific Island storytelling culture. The title character Princess Moana (voiced

by Auli’i Cravalho) strives to find herself by journeying

across the sea. Besides a strong-female lead, the audience also gets to meet the comic-relief sidekick chicken Heihei (Alan Tudyk) — one of the stupidest and funniest Disney has created. — KH • Bleed for This (PG-13) — 3 ½ stars At first, it’s every “Rocky”

• “Max Steel” (Jan. 10): A teen (Ben Winchell) and an alien (voice of Josh Brener) unite to form a team to battle extraterrestrial threats. (PG-13)

movie you ever saw. But this biopic of the comeback attempt of true-life boxer Vinny Pazienza (Miles Teller) takes the genre title. It’s something of a comeback for director Ben Younger, too. — KS • The Edge of Seventeen (R) — 3 ½ stars Funny and raw, “The Edge of Seventeen” perfectly captures the awkwardness of one of the most vulnerable periods in life — the teen years. Starring Hailee Steinfeld (Nadine), Haley Lu Richardson (Krista) and Woody Harrelson (Mr. Bruner), the film is a breath of fresh air for the coming-ofage genre. — KH • Arrival (PG-13) — 3 ½ stars An odd but thoroughly engrossing hybrid of “Contact,” “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “Arrival” stars Amy Adams as a linguistics professor called on by the US Army to figure out a way to communicate with the aliens. — Michael Clark

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movies

Friday, december 23, 2016 • 7c

‘Hidden Figures’ an unabashed feel-good film Hidden Figures (PG-13) HHHH

Hidden Figures (PG-13) 3 out of 4 stars

By Michael clark Movie Critic

It’s not far-fetched to imagine the one-line studio pitch for “Hidden Figures” to have been “The Right Stuff” meets “Selma” minus the bloodshed. As blunt and general as that may sound, it is a correct description, yet is also something of a disservice.

Based on the recent book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly, “Hidden Figures” is pure, unabashed Hollywood feel-good/uplift that brings with it just enough rough edges to keep it from drifting into mushy sentimentality. In adapting the book, director Theodore Melfi (“St. Vincent”) and co-writer Allison Schroeder take a small amount of artistic liberties, i.e., embellishing the truth, mostly because they don’t have to. This is a story of three amazing black women who, without fanfare of any kind and plenty of abuse along the way, were integral to the success of the American space program during its infancy stage.

Opening with minimal (and unneeded) back story, the narrative kicks in earnest 1961 in Hampton, Va., with Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (singer Janelle Monae) broken down on the side of the road while on their way to Langley Air Force Base.

A chance interaction with a suspicious white police officer that starts ominously

ends on a high note while foreshadowing the strained race relations that had yet to reach critical mass.

All three women were highly gifted in math and/ or physics but Johnson was the clear stand out. Unlike Vaughan and Jackson who were regulated to “colored only” sections of the NASA complex, Johnson was assigned to the all white, almost all male engineering division.

Greeted instantly with sneering silence, dirty looks and crass disrespect, Johnson’s race and gender were viewed by her co-workers as crippling flaws. She would have to perform twice as good to even be considered close to an equal.

Johnson’s boss was Al Harrison (a composite character played by Kevin Costner), a buzz-cut, gum-chewing, type-A, nuts-and-bolts kind of guy who didn’t see race or gender but was also initially oblivious to the abhorrent treatment toward Johnson from his underlings. Most egregious was Paul Stafford (Jim Parsons as an even more obnoxious version of his “Big Bang Theory” character) who gave Johnson heavily redacted files in the hopes she would be unable to decipher anything and thus fail.

While not nearly as degrading or offensive, the treatment Vaughan received via her boss Vivien Michael (Kirsten Dunst) was as equally disrespectful and condescending. Through tight lips and clenched teeth, Michael cruelly talked down to Vaughan, refusing to give her a supervisor’s title (and pay grade) even though Vaughan was already performing said

“Hidden Figures” is the incredible untold story of brilliant AfricanAmerican women working at NASA who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement that restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race and galvanized the world. The visionary trio crossed all gender and race lines to inspire generations to dream big. (Photos: Hopper Stone.)

duties.

Given the least amount of screen time, Jackson’s battle involved completing a required class that was only available via a local white-only high school. This took more patience than it should have, and convincing an intolerant judicial system to allow her admittance was petty and demeaning.

While largely wise and expedient with the running time, Melfi spends far too much time on a sub-plot involving — really — Johnson’s bathroom visits. After being told by a white secretary there were no colored bathrooms in the building, Johnson — while carrying stacks of documents and in high heels each time — treks across the NASA complex to relieve herself. Showing this once or twice would have more than made the point, yet Melfi repeats essentially the same scene a half dozen times

stalls the progression of the narrative.

In an eerie bit of irony, the film was made available for press viewing on the same day as the passing of John Glenn, one of the seven original Mercury astronauts and later U.S. senator from Ohio. Portrayed in the film

by Glen Powell, Glenn was instrumental in championing Johnson after recognizing her talents greatly exceeded those of most of the men working with her. His maiden voyage around the globe would have Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae, left), Katherine Johnson never happened without John(Taraji P. Henson) and Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spenson’s crucial input. cer) celebrate their stunning achievements in one of the “Hidden Figures” isn’t a greatest operations in history. great movie but it’s very good and offers a glimpse into a while chewing up 15 valuable to make that point even clear- time in our nation’s history minutes of screen time. In er by including two romantic when society was attempting doing so it turns what should subplots. It’s hard to find fault to move, forward while at the same time trying to cling to have been a dramatic slightwith this logic; it certainly social mindsets that should ing into something bordering up’s the story’s “warm-nhave died their deaths long on farce. fuzzy” factor by showing an ago.

As this is a de facto chick even softer, personal side to (Fox) flick, the filmmakers choose two of the women but largely

This ‘Creed’ is unsatisfying Assassin’s Creed Assassin’s Creed (PG-13) (PG-13) 1 1/2 out of 4 stars HHHH By khari J. saMpson khari.sampson @gwinnettdailypost.com

It’s practically a truism, now: Movies based on video games are almost never any darn good. So that was strike one heading into Tuesday’s screening of “Assassin’s Creed.” Strike two: That it was a Tuesday screening for a movie opening Wednesday.

Not exactly a sign of confidence from the studio.

Still, I used to play video games a lot and the premise of “Assassin’s Creed” — sneak around, get the bad guy, escape undetected with minimal collateral damage — fit both my gaming sensibilities and the dramatic requirements of a movie. Maybe this film could capture its blend of bleeding-edge high-tech with historical period settings and action. And with excellent leads in Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard, perhaps this was a game-based film that could work.

But the movie subverts itself from the opening frame, starting with a text crawl that plainly states who the good guys are (the Assassins), who the bads are (the Templars), and what the McGuffin is (the Apple of Eden) and why it’s important (it’ll erase free will).

Then the very next scene, set in late 15th-century Spain, states those very same basics, almost word for word, in subtitled Spanish. Next thing we know, we’re following the flight path of an eagle in a very long shot that grows tiresome in less than half the time it takes to end. We’re not two minutes in and the movie’s already wasting our time — and, unfortunately, the eagle motif is repeated ad nauseam throughout the film. Hope you packed your dramamine.

Like the game it’s based on, “Assassin’s Creed” is a bit of a schizoid creature, being set in modernity but, through the miracle of pseudoscience, inmate protagonist Cal Lynch

Matthew McConaughey stars as koala Buster Moon, right, and Garth Jennings voices Through a revolutionary technology that unlocks his genetic elderly lizard Miss Crawly in the “Sing,” (Special Photos: Universal) memories, Callum Lynch (Michael Fassbender) experiences the adventures of his ancestor, Aguilar, in 15th Century Spain. in “Assassin’s Creed.” (Photo Credit: Kerry Brown.)

(Fassbender) is able to vividly experience the memories and actions of his distant ancestor Aguilera (also Fassbender), a member of the shadowy Assassins group. Compassionate-seeming scientist Sophia (Cotillard) seeks to probe Cal’s memories to find the Apple so she can cure violent folks like him of his violence.

Or so she says.

Visually, the movie looks good. Aside from an opening scene introducing us to the young Cal in 1986 — about the last time we’ll genuinely feel for this character — all the modern-day scenes are shot in a sterile blue filter as opposed to the warmer look of the 1490s action.

Unsurprisingly, those sequences during which Cal dives into the past are the most interesting. But they’re also the most disappointing, being a mash of quick-cutting action and endless chases that hurl peon after easily dispatched peon into the heroes’ paths, no matter if they’re on a rooftop or in the sewers. I kept wondering how the enemies were so keenly able to triangulate the Assassins’ position over and over without the benefit of radio communication or surveillance cameras.

Meanwhile, the modern story, the one with the stakes we’re supposed to care about, fails to compel. Fassbender, already playing an unlikeable hero, doesn’t get to do much more than flex and glower throughout the film. There is a quartet (or quintet) of other inmates who are also part of

the Assassins’ bloodline who sort of want to stop Cal from helping the oh-so-helpable Cotillard, who’s wasted in a role meant to be ambiguous but is never quite fully realized.

The trouble with this film is that essentially we’re told to root for the ones we usually see as the bad guys: assassins. It works in the past scenes but not in the modern ones. Cotillard makes us care a little bit about her character, especially by the end, while the lead and said quartet/ quintet are ultimately just a bunch of ciphers. To make this sort of thing work, a film needs an element of joy, and there’s simply none to be had.

This film is also incredibly violent, pushing the PG-13 rating to its limits. Though I am no fan of blood and gore in movies, I found myself wishing for an arterial spray or two just to slow down the action a little bit. And when the action slows by the end, it’s most unsatisfying.

As a game-based film, “Assassin’s Creed” is a good effort. But we’ve established that such films are generally no good. The titular Creed goes something like, “Stay your blade from innocent blood, hide in plain sight and never compromise the brotherhood of assassins.” One wishes this film had never compromised and stayed hidden on Xbox. There was precious little sneaking around to be found in this onscreen mayhem.

(20th Century Fox)

‘Sing’ needs a little fine-tuning Sing (PG) HHHH

Sing (PG) 2 out of 4 stars

By kristen hansen kristen.hansen @gwinnettdailypost.com

“Sing” is a song that goes on a little too long and needs a little fine-tuning.

As all animated films are now, this one is star-studded with lots of well-known actresses and actors lending their voices. Set in an all animal world (think “Zootopia”), “Sing” stars a dapper koala, Buster Moon (voiced

by Matthew McConaughey, “Dallas Buyers Club”) who is trying to save his beloved old theater. To do this, he decides to hold a singing competition. As the movie puts on screen what several in the audience are thinking with the line, “Aren’t there enough of those?” I would agree with many who would say, “Yes, stop.” At least, though, the movie puts a wild, hairy spin on things.

Moon holds auditions and runs into a wide range of animals. Everything from a tiny, crooner mouse named Mike (voiced by Seth MacFarlane, “Ted”) to an over taxed pig mother of 25 (Reese Witherspoon, “Walk the Line”) to a punk rock porcupine trying to find her own way (Scarlett Johansson, “Avengers”). The cast of characters is wide-ranging, and the group assembled has good variety. Each animal

Matthew McConaughey voices koala Buster Moon and Garth Jennings voices elderly lizard Miss Crawly as they greet the contestants in “Sing.”

has big dreams of how they are going to be able to change their lives once they win the competition and the coveted prize money. Just like Moon is trying to save his theater, the others are trying to save themselves — be it from mundane housework or a life of crime.

Written and directed by Garth Jennings (“Son of Rambow,” “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”), the movie surprisingly features more than 65 hit songs — no small feat. There is something for all tastes as the selection ranges from Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga.

“To tell stories with music and have such a broad spectrum to draw from was a huge reason why we got excited about ‘Sing’ in the first place,” Jennings said. “It is important that the audience care about every character’s story, and sewing their stories together with music allows us to do it in a way that would

be impossible otherwise.”

The singing scenes are by far the best. Even though it might hit a few rough patches with slow downs, the payoff in the end makes up for it. It is odd in a singing movie to say you would want more singing, but it would have helped as those were the most interesting parts.

Illumination’s other movies, as this is its sixth animated feature film, have included the dynasty of “Despicable Me,” its sequel and spin-off “Minions” and its latest summer blockbuster “The Secret Life of Pets.” “Sing” is on par with “Secret Life,” though this latest installment features a couple of extra laughs. The audience cheered along with the movie, and at the end it seemed the entire theater applauded.

A good feel-good animated film, “Sing” has enough to delight, though maybe not completely satisfy.

(Universal

8C • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2016

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Franco is, well, Franco in funny ‘Why Him?’ Why Him? (R) 2 1/2★★★★ out of 4 stars

BY KHARI J. SAMPSON khari.sampson @gwinnettdailypost.com

I have a confession to make, right at the outset here. I didn’t see the entirety of this film’s screening.

The reasons involved rain and Atlanta rush hour traffic and, of course, my failure to fully account for the former (and the accidents it causes) in my travel time. And so I arrived at the screening about eight to 12 minutes into the story, having missed all the setup and having to play catch-up

Laird (James Franco), left, meets his girlfriend Stephanie’s (Zoey Deutch) family: Ned (Bryan Cranston), Barb (Megan Mullally) and Scotty (Griffin Gluck) in “Why him?”. (Special Photo: Scott Garfield/20th Century Fox)

just as the audience was introduced to … … him.

The “him” in the title

“Why Him?” is James Franco playing James Franco — er, Laird Mayhem. I mean MayHEW,

not mayhem, though the latter is what the character represents for Bryan Cranston’s character, Ned Fleming, whose Stanfordattending daughter, Stephanie (Zoey Deutch), has insisted her staid Michigan family fly out to California to meet her boyfriend for Christmas.

Laird is James Franco with zero filter — think of his performance in 2013’s “This Is The End” — and if he were a “new money” Silicon Valley millionaire.

We’re talking about a dude who, when admonished

about using profanity in the presence of a minor, apologizes profusely while cussing some more.

Or who gets a tattoo of his girlfriend’s family to impress them.

(Spoiler: It doesn’t.)

Franco is an actor I’ve found hard to like. Perhaps it’s because I sort of hated his character way back in his early-career TV role in 1999’s “Freaks and Geeks” or because of his semi-villainous turn in the first trio of Spider-Man movies between 2002 and 2007. Or maybe it’s just that smarmy grin of his.

But he’s got the comedic chops to mostly pull off the same joke over and over again and somehow still keep it funny.

It helps that he’s got so much able support.

Cranston is solid as the uptight Michigan dad who’s having trouble letting his kids grow up. There’s also Keegan-Michael Key (doing a passable Indian accent) as Gustav, Laird’s steady yet unpredictable personal assistant/notbodyguard/Jiminy Cricket figure.

But the comedic star of the show, for my money, was Megan Mullally as

Barb Fleming, Ned’s wife, who gets to play both the straight woman to Laird’s outrageousness and also … well, let’s say that a couple of scenes really brings out the young woman in her character.

“Why Him?” is a fun piece of R-rated fluff, though it’ll go down easier if you happen to know and like — or at least tolerate — a person as outrageous as Franco’s Laird.

It will also help if you’re a little less weary of today’s brand of comedies than I am. As funny as this stuff can be, I miss the days when film humor didn’t seem like uncensored, extended “Saturday Night Live” skits. Whatever happened to simple sight gags? Also, the turn of a character, while satisfying, doesn’t feel quite earned.

Still, the screening audience laughed a lot along with me. Viewers in the mood for a holiday-related film with a little more raunch than sentimentality could do a lot worse than “Why Him?” And I’ll be seeing this film again sometime, to get those missing eight to 12 minutes back.

(20th Century Fox)

Southeastern Film Critics Association shines on ‘Moonlight’ with ’16 awards FROM STAFF REPORTS

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The Southeastern Film Critics Association (SEFCA) has named “Moonlight” the Best Film of 2016.

Writer/director Barry Jenkins’ poetic depiction of a gay black man as a child, teenager and adult earned multiple awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Mahershala Ali, Best Ensemble, Best Adapted Screenplay and a tie for Best Director with Damien Chezelle of “La La Land.” “Moonlight” was also the runner-up in the categories for Best Supporting Actress (for Naomie Harris), Best Cinematography and the Wyatt Award for the Spirit of the South.

“At a time when expensive, heavily marketed popcorn movies dominate the cultural conversation about cinema, the ability of a small, quiet and personal film like ‘Moonlight’ to break through can give film fans hope for the future,” SEFCA president Curt Holman said.

Casey Affleck won Best Actor for his performance as a grieving handyman returning to his hometown under tragic circumstances in “Manchester by the Sea.” Natalie Portman won Best Actress for her turn

RESULTS Top 10 Films 1. Moonlight 2. Manchester by the Sea 3. La La Land 4. Hell or High Water 5. Loving 6. Arrival 7. (Tie) Fences and Jackie 9. Nocturnal Animals 10. Hidden Figures Best Actor Winner — Casey Affleck (Manchester by the Sea) Runner-up — Denzel Washington (Fences) Best Actress Winner — Natalie Portman (Jackie) Runner-up — Ruth Negga (Loving) Best Supporting Actor Winner – Mahershala Ali (Moonlight) Runner-up — Jeff Bridges (Hell or High Water) Best Supporting Actress Winner — Viola Davis (Fences) Runner-up — Naomie Harris (Moonlight) Best Ansemble Winner — Moonlight Runner-up — Manchester by the Sea

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Best Director Winner (tie) — Damien Chazelle, (La La Land) Winner (tie) — Barry Jenkins (Moonlight) Best Original Screenplay Winner — Manchester by the Sea Runner-up — Hell or High Water Best Adapted Screenplay Winner — Moonlight Runner-up — Arrival Best Documentary Winner — I Am Not Your Negro Runner-up — OJ: Made in America Best Foreign-language Film Winner — The Handmaiden Runner-up — Elle Best Animated Film Winner — Zootopia Runner-up — Kubo and the Two Strings Best Cinematography Winner — La La Land Runner-up — Moonlight The Gene Wyatt Award Winner — Loving Runner-up — Moonlight

Award for her Broadway performance.

Other winners include “Manchester by the Sea” for Best Original Screenplay, the portrait of James Baldwin “I Am Not Your Negro” for Best Documentary, the twisty Gothic romance “The Handmaiden” for Best Foreign Language film, the humorous but surprisingly relevant “Zootopia” for Best Animated Film and the splashy musical homage “La La Land” for Best Cinematography.

“Loving,” writer/director Jeff Nichols’ exploration of the Supreme Court’s Loving v. Virginia decision, won the Wyatt Award in recognition of a film that best embodies the spirit of the South.

The association’s 25th annual awards saw ballots from 53 members, all film journalists working in print, radio and online media in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

“We’d like to dedicate the 2016 awards to the memories of Jim Ridley and Ken Hanke, SEFCA members who passed away this year,” Holman said.

“They will be missed.”