December 5, 2018 — Gwinnett Daily Post

‘TIME FOR REFLECTION,’ 7A

Funeral for George H.W. Bush set to be apolitical

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Gwinnett Daily Post WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

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Vol. 48, No. 192

LAWRENCEVILLE

City adopts its 20-year growth plan

BY CURT YEOMANS curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com

High school students Anuhya Tadepalli, left, and Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology senior Poojita Chinmay, center left, started Chess for a Cause at Annandale Village in Suwanee in 2016. The group teaches seniors how to play chess as a way to keep their minds sharp and curb memory loss of dementia patients. Chess for a Cause is a 4-H Club under the Fulton County UGA Extension. The students were recently awarded a $500 grant from Disney’s Be Inspired program to buy chess sets.

Here, they present chess game sets to staff members at Brookdale Senior Living Center in Alpharetta. (Special Photos)

Checkmates

Teens use chess to help seniors keep sharp minds

BY JAY JONES

Lawrenceville, and her cousin, Anuhya Tadepalli from Milton High School, struck upon hat started two years Chess for a Cause, when they ago when two high worked with the seniors and school students vol- thought they could do more to unteered to work at a Suwanee help. retirement home is today an ef“We worked with seniors, fort across three metro Atlanta doing simple things like art counties to help seniors keep and bingo, the general things their minds active by teaching that seniors do, but after a them to play chess. few weeks working there, we Poojita Chinmay, a senior at realized how tedious it was,” Gwinnett School of MathematSee CHESS, Page 3A ics, Science and Technology in

Lawrenceville leaders signed off this week on the blueprint that will guide planning in the city for the next two decades.

The City Council voted to adopt Lawrenceville’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan on Monday after a public hearing at which residents were given a Judy Jordan chance to weigh in on Johnson the proposed development plan. City officials have said the plan was developed from input gathered from a citizen committee, statistical data, staff recommendations, experts and during public meetings.

“We are excited to be Chuck Warbington adopting a plan that will See PLAN, Page 5A

Council OKs shift of state routes around downtown

Staff Correspondent

BY CURT YEOMANS

W

curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com

Poojita Chinmay aids a resident in a chess game. The group has grown to have 25 high school students volunteering at 15 assisted living and senior centers across Gwinnett, Fulton and Forsyth counties.

Gwinnett deals with voting issues during runoff

BY CURT YEOMANS

Gwinnett officials asked a judge to order two polling precincts to stay open until 7:15 p.m. after they opened late Tuesday for voting in the state’s runoff election. A third polling precinct at Lenora Park in Snellville also had issues on election day. (File Photo)

curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com

A machine that caused headaches for voters at some Gwinnett polling precincts last month stirred up new issues at one precinct in Snellville on Tuesday as the county dealt with a handful of issues during the runoff election.

Photos of voting machines at Lenora Park in Snellville not being used while voters waited in line were posted

just after 8 a.m. to the 159 Georgia Together Facebook group on Tuesday. The photos were accompanied by complaint of a 20-minute wait

while one person checked voters in.

County spokesman Joe Sorenson said one of two Express Poll machines at the

Four state highways and one U.S. highway that go through downtown Lawrenceville are going to be moved after the City Council approved the re-designation of those routes Monday.

The decision affects Ga. highways 8, 120, 20 and 124, as well as U.S. Highway 29. City officials have been looking at moving the routes away from the Lawrenceville Square and other downtown streets in an effort to reduce traffic in that area. The plan is to use Jackson Street and LawrencevilleSuwanee Road to divert the traffic away See ROADS, Page 5A

MORE INSIDE

Republican candidates looking victorious in runoff results ..........8A

Lenora Park stopped working Tuesday morning. That caused a line to build up as workers tried to check in voters using the one remaining machine until another machine could be brought in.

“The Elections Office confirmed that their express polls at Lenora Park went See RUNOFF, Page 3A

Signs in downtown Lawrenceville point drivers toward U.S. and state highway routes in this file photo from November.

The City Council voted Monday to move the highway designations away from the downtown Lawrenceville area. (File Photo)

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YOU’RE INVITED TO GWINNETT’S 200TH BIRTHDAY PARTY! Gwinnett County is about to turn 200, and we’re throwing a birthday party to celebrate Gwinnett residents of the past, present, and future.

Saturday, December 15 • 10:00am to 2:00pm Hudgens Center for Art and Learning 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth Enjoy birthday traditions from around the world with activities, crafts, birthday cupcakes (while supplies last), cultural performances, food trucks, and more.

Visit www.Gwinnett200.com to learn more! We hope to see you there.

2A • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

gwinnettdailypost.com

BOC finalizes Robbery suspects ID’d; one arrested $35.4M in bonds to buy OFS site FROM STAFF REPORTS

Gwinnett police have identified the two men suspected of robbing a Walgreens in unincorporated proximately $2.5 million Lawrenceville as brothers

BY CURT YEOMANS in annual debt service is — and have arrested one curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com expected to be covered by of them. rental of some space by OFS According to police, The final details for the and movie studios since Javonte Price, 20, was bonds that Gwinnett County the site is a frequently used arrested on Monday and will use to buy 103 acres filming location. charged with robbery. at the OFS site in Norcross “Instead of $2.5 million, Larry Heard, 27, was idenwere set in place by county it could easily be $3 million tified as the other suspect commissioners Tuesday. if the rate had been higher,” in the robbery, which ocThe commissioners, Nash said. curred on Nov. 14, but his acting as both the GwinClosing on the purchase whereabouts are unknown nett Urban Development is one of the last big actions and police are asking for Authority board and as the involving Commissioner help finding him. He is county commission, voted Lynette Howard’s district also wanted for robbery.

3-1 to approve a supplemen- before she leaves office at The two are accused of tal bond agreement for the the end of the year. purchase. Commissioner “This is one of the things Tommy Hunter was out of that I wanted to get actown and did not participate complished and it’s going in the meeting, while Com- to happen,” Howard said.

FROM STAFF REPORTS missioner John Heard voted “I even asked, ‘Are we sure The Superior Court against it. we’re voting on it today?’

The new agreement, Clerks’ Association of It’s an exciting time.” which amends an agreement The county’s plans for the Georgia has awarded its adopted earlier this year, 2018 ECLAT Award to OFS site remain undeterlocks in the pricing for the Gwinnett Clerk of Supemined, but there have been 20-year taxable bonds with plenty of proposals over the rior, State and Magistrate J.P. Morgan Securities LLC years including office build- Courts Richard T. Alexanat $35.4 million with a 3.9 ings, a hotel, a casino and a der Jr. percent interest rate.

The association cited film studio.

“These are taxable Alexander’s professionThe possibility of buildbonds,” commission Chair- ing a multimodal transit hub alism, dedication and woman Charlotte Nash said. that is part of the county’s leadership among his staff “They don’t have the tax and other clerks statewide 30-year Connect Gwinnett exempt advantage that our for honoring him with the Transit Development Plan normal G.O. bonds would has been raised since it is on award, which stands for have, so it’s a very, very the Jimmy Carter Boulevard Exceptional Commitment, good rate. … The county’s Leadership, Accomplishcorridor. That is the same Triple AAA bond rating is corridor that the transit plan ment and Teamwork. getting us the absolute best “I’m grateful and honcalls for the transit hub to be rate that we could get for ored to receive this recbuilt. bonding.” ognition, especially from But Nash said multiThe approval of the final my colleagues,” Alexander modal stations can range bonding agreement for the from 10-25 acres depending said in a press release. purchase clears the way for on the transit modes they are “I am fortunate to have the county to finalize its used for. That leaves a lot of a great team who help purchase of the site. Gwinland for the county to figure make this office function nett is expected to close on at a very high level. Court out a use for, although a the purchase of the property private sector partner would clerks provide an essential around Dec. 18, according service, and we all strive likely be involved in that to county spokeswoman process.

Heather Sawyer.

“This is a logical locaThe county received eight tion to be considered for (a bond bids from financial transit hub) — it makes a lot FROM STAFF REPORTS institutions for the OFS of sense and and it should bonds, with the interest rates make the property very A Statham man walking ranging from 3.9 percent attractive to the private sechis dog Monday mornto 4.2 percent. The original tor,” Nash said. $36.5 million bond agreeHoward said a request for ing was hit and killed by a driver who then fled the ment that the commissioners information and a request approved in October was for proposals will be issued scene, the Barrow County based on projected bond at some point to give devel- Sheriff’s Office said.

Capt. Ryan Sears said pricing, Nash said. opers an opportunity to pitch County officials are the Sheriff’s Office is asktheir ideas for developing excited about the 3.9 percent the site. ing for help identifying the interest rate because the “It’s the perfect prime lower the rate is, the more location for all sorts of great money the county can save things to happen,” Howard on debt service. The apsaid.

stealing “a couple of hundred dollars” from the Walgreens store located at Javonte 2365 BuPrice ford Drive.

Surveillance footage shows the suspect identified as Heard purchasing a pair of socks, and then grabbing money from the register after it was opened. The video shows Price helping him before the two fled the parking lot in a sliver, fourdoor car.

According to Gwinnett police spokeswoman

Michele Pihera, once the original media release was sent out, detectives were able to identify the suspects, who they say are brothers.

Police continue to search for Heard. Anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts is asked to contact detectives at 770-513-5300. To remain anonymous, tipsters can contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestoppersatlanta.org. Crime Stoppers tipsters can receive up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case. The case number is 18-105951.

Larry Heard, 27, is wanted for robbery for a Nov. 14 incident that occurred at Walgreens, located at 2365 Buford Drive in unincorporated Lawrenceville. (Special Photo)

Clerk of Courts wins statewide award to provide accurate and efficient service for the public and the courts.”

Richard T. The Alexander Jr. citation accompanying the award quoted co-workers and colleagues as describing Alexander as “treasured colleague,” “highly qualified professional,” “fun guy” and “selfless.” The citation mentioned his openness in sharing all aspects of the award-winning Gwinnett County Clerk of Courts website, and his efforts to help other clerks find answers to difficult or complicated questions.

“Richard is truly a leader and mentor, not just a boss,” said Theresa Cox, Gwinnett’s chief deputy clerk. “He leads by example and wants all of his

employees to succeed and reach their potential. He always makes time to discuss suggestions or issues and is never too busy to answer questions whether those questions come from within our clerk’s office, other judicial offices or from clerks around the state.”

According to a press release, qualifications for the award include exhibiting exemplary leadership and/or administration that has produced tangible improvements to benefit constituents and other clerks, and creating or implementing new ways to benefit other clerks or Georgia’s judicial system.

Alexander served in the Air Force, in which he worked in air base security. After leaving the military, he joined the Conyers Police Department and then the Gwinnett County Police Department in

1980.

In 1985, he graduated from Atlanta Law School and began practicing law, serving as an arbitrator and mediator, and then in 2001 as a magistrate judge.

From 2001-10, he served on the State of Georgia’s Council of Magistrate Court Judges, including a stint as president.

In 2010, Alexander was appointed chief deputy clerk of the Superior, State, and Magistrate Courts of Gwinnett County. He became clerk of courts in 2011. He has also served as president the Metropolitan Court Clerks Association, regularly teaching classes on leadership to numerous groups and organizations statewide.

Gwinnett Clerk of Clerk of Superior, State and Magistrate Courts Thomas C. Lawler received the ECLAT Award in 2009.

Driver sought in fatal Barrow hit-and-run vehicle and driver of what is believed to be a gray or silver Infiniti that has heavy front- and rear-end damage. Sears said the vehicle is a four-door model that is somewhere betwen a 2006-13 model, possibly a G35 or a G36.

The incident occurred at 52 Jefferson Road in

Statham, where Marvin Barnes, a 66-year-old Statham resident, was walking his dog about 6 to 8 feet off the roadway, Sears said.

Sears said the vehicle lost control and left the road, striking Barnes.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle was last seen fleeing on

Jefferson Road and turning onto Arnold Road.

The Barrow County Sheriff’s Office is asking for anyone with information to contact Investigator J.D. Gann at 770-3077669. Sears said anyone wishing to remain anonymous can leave a voicemail for Gann.

Lawrenceville man charged with interference of custody as police search for missing boy, 7

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FROM STAFF REPORTS Gwinnett County police said Ricardo Medy of Lawrenceville, a man who is wanted for interference of custody, has been in touch with a member of the media and said he has 7-yearold Quamaine Finch with him.

Police are searching for Medy, 42, and the boy. According to police spokeswoman Michele Pihera, Medy said he is with the boy and that the

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boy is unharmed. He also claimed to be the boy’s father, and is refusing to cooperate, Pihera said.

“We urge him to surrender Quamaine and to turn himself into the Gwinnett County Jail,” Pihera said.

The boy was left in the care of Medy, Pihera said, after his mother was taken into custody in Fulton County. Medy is reportedly the mom’s boyfriend. Subsequently, the Division of Family and Children Services was awarded custody of the boy, but when a DFCS representative went to Medy’s home on Nov. 27, Medy refused to answer the door, police

Gwinnett police are looking for Ricardo Medy, 42, of Lawrenceville, who is believed to have 7-year-old Quamaine Finch with him. Medy, left, is charged with interference of custody. (Special Photo)

said.

He spoke to the DFCS representative on the phone, saying the child was with his biological father at an unknown

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location. The case was then assigned to the Special Victims Unit, Pihera said, and an arrest warrant has been secured for Medy on the charge of interference with custody.

His whereabouts are unknown, but Pihera said he has ties to New Jersey and Florida, as well as Georgia.

Police are asking for any information as to the whereabouts of the 7-year-old and Medy.

Anyone with information in the case is asked to contact GCPD detectives at 770513-5300. To remain anonymous, tipsters can contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www. crimestoppersatlanta.org.

Crime Stoppers tipsters can receive up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case. The case number is 18-110731.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 • 3A

gwinnettdailypost.com

Man sentenced for stealing $80K with ATM skimmers his co-conspirators installed the skimming devices at Associated Credit Union ATMs A Romanian man who stole in Lawrenceville, Norcross, more than $80,000 from at Atlanta and other locations least 70 people using an ATM in Georgia, where the device skimming device will spend the electronically recorded the next two years in prison for his customer’s debit card number crimes. and a small camera in the Gogut Serban, 35, pleaded device recorded the ATM guilty in late August to access keyboard as the customer device fraud and aggravated entered their PIN. identity theft, though was Serban and others then only recently sentenced, the encoded new cards with the Department of Justice said stolen account information Tuesday. and used the altered cards at According to evidence ATMs, draining money from presented in court, Serban and the victims’ bank accounts. The

BY ISABEL HUGHES

isabel.hughes@gwinnettdailypost.com

other co-conspirators in the scheme were charged in South Carolina.

“Identity theft is a continuing problem that damages the credit of too many unsuspecting Georgians,” said U.S. Attorney BJay Pak. “Citizens are encouraged to visually and physically inspect ATMs for any obvious signs of tampering prior to using their debit or credit cards.”

The U.S. Secret Service aided the Lawrenceville Police Department in the investigation, which Lawrenceville Police Chief

incarceration and ordered to pay $84,760.50 in restitution.

“This investigation and subsequent conviction demonstrates the commitment the Secret Service and our law enforcement partners have in aggressively pursuing those who commit access device fraud and identity theft,” said Kimberly Cheatle, special agent in charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Atlanta Field Office. “This sentencing is another great example of the law enforcement community working together to combat crime.”

Chess

•From Page 1A

ing 15 assisted living and memory care communities Chinmay said. “A lot of across Gwinnett, Forsyth the things we were doing and north Fulton counties were the same things over and the city of Atlanta. and over again, and they Along with Annandale, weren’t very challenging, Chess for a Cause teaches so we thought about doing chess classes at Autumn something that was maybe Leaves Memory Care in more mentally stimulating Suwanee, Parc at Duluth with these seniors.” senior living center and the Chinmay said she had Bethesda Senior Center in always been interested in Lawrenceville. neurology and wanted to Chinmay said at first the help people experiencing managers of the assisted early signs of dementia find living centers weren’t ways to slow the disease’s sure about the students’ effects and keep their methods to help dementia minds active. After some patients. brainstorming themselves, “They were hesitant to Chinmay and Tadepalli put so much pressure on sedecided that chess, a game niors, but after they gave us that they played since they a chance the seniors really were kids, was the best liked it,” she said. thing for seniors.

Slowly, the seniors “We were surprised at developed their chess skills the response,” Chinmay with instruction from the said. students. The seniors had a Chess for a Cause started tough time learning all the with the two students at rules and strategy of chess, Annandale Village in so Chinmay said they had Suwanee in 2016. Since to adjust their lessons. They then, the girls have grown learned that seniors with the group to 25 high school dementia could remember student volunteers servthings temporarily while

Tim Wallis said he greatly appreciated.

“The Lawrenceville Police Department is extremely grateful for the assistance provided by our partners in the U.S. Secret Service during this seven-month investigation,” he said. “The continued cooperation of local and federal law enforcement agencies led to a successful conclusion of a complex case spread over several jurisdictions.”

In addition to his two-year, two-month prison sentence, Serban was given three years of supervised release post-

Chess for a Cause co-founders Poojita Chinmay, center, and Anuhya Tadepalli, teach chess to a group of residents at the Autumn Leaves Assisted Living in Suwanee. Chinmay said they overwhelmed seniors at first by trying to teach chess in one session.

“We had to learn was to break chess down, and teach small parts of it at once until it became routine for the seniors, like the daily things that they did like brushing their teeth.” (Special Photo)

their long-term memory is built on daily routines.

“In the first few lessons we taught, we overwhelmed the seniors. We didn’t know where to start; we were just starting out,” she said. “So, one thing we had to learn was to break

chess down, and teach small parts of it at once until it became routine for the seniors, like the daily things that they did like brushing their teeth.”

The lessons at times focused on a single chess piece for five or six lessons.

•From Page 1A

on time on Tuesday.

Sorenson said the precincts located at the Pinckneyville Community Center in Berkeley Lake and Knight Elementary School in Lilburn opened 15 minutes late Tuesday.

That prompted the county had to ask a judge for permission to keep those precincts open until 7:15 p.m.

“The poll workers had issues getting the locations open,” Sorenson said. “Instead of issuing paper ballots, I think they

Chinmay said that despite the slow progress the point was to make chess a routine for seniors. After lots of hard work, Chinmay said they began to see results with their seniors playing chess and looking forward to their weekly

Runoff

down briefly and had to be replaced, temporarily resulting in an 20-minute wait,” Sorenson said.

The issue with the Express Poll machine at Lenora Park was not the only problem that Gwinnett elections officials had to deal with Tuesday.

County officials had to ask a judge to issue an order allowing two precincts in Berkeley Lake and Lilburn to stay open later because they did not open

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were still working with machines there so we’re going to be asking a judge to extend the hours there for another 15 minutes.”

Tuesday night, Sorenson said the county did receive permission to stay open later at the two precincts.

But the issue at Lenora Park, while only creating a 20-minute wait for voters, echoed issues that plagued the county and led to some long waits — some voters claimed to have waited up to four hours — to cast ballots during the Nov. 6 general election.

During the general election, there were reports of issues with the Express Poll systems at five

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precincts, mainly in the Snellville, Lawrenceville, Dacula and Suwanee areas. The issues at one of the precincts, however, were due to a missing power cord.

Lenora Park was not one of the precincts that had issues Nov. 6.

A judge had to order the extension of voting at multiple precincts during the general election because of the issues with the Express Poll machines.

In addition to confirming whether a voter is registered to vote at a precinct, the Express Poll machines write ballots onto cards that voters insert into voting machines to cast their ballots.

The runoff was for the secretary of state and Public Service Commission District 3 races. Republican Brad Rafensperger and Democratic candidate John Barrow faced off in the secretary of state runoff while the Public Service Commission runoff was between Republican candidate Chuck Eaton and Democratic candidate Lindy Miller.

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sessions.

“That was amazing because it was very difficult for them to remember names and just small things in their life,” Chinmay said.

“Chess is in itself a complicated strategic game.”

Since beginning Chess for a Cause, the students have raised funds for the Alzheimer’s Association Longest Day event and the Annandale Village Extra Mile 5K in Suwanee. They received an award from the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services. The Disney Be Inspired program gave the group a $500 grant to buy chess sets.

Chinmay said the work now is to keep Chess for a Cause going. Tadepalli graduated from high school last year, and Chinmay will leave for college after this school year. They are looking to raise funds to purchase software that will track gameplay of seniors and offer puzzles and exercises to keep seniors engaged between the group’s visits.

To learn more about Chess for a Cause, visit chessforacause.wixsite. com/chessforacause.

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4A • WednesdAy, december 5, 2018 To Your Good Health

H. pylori can cause cancer, ulcers Dear Dr. roacH: My 82-year-old husband was diagnosed with H. pylori and was treated with two antibiotics and omeprazole. Would you please expand on what exactly H. pylori is?

— T.R. anSWer: Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria species that is able to live in the stomach. It was identified in a paper from 1984 and is now recognized as a major contributor to gastrointestinal ulcers and inflammation. In addition, it plays a role in the development of certain types of stomach cancers.

H. pylori is the underlying cause of most stomach and duodenal ulcers, and people who have these ulcers are tested for H. pylori and treated if the bacteria is present. Treatment helps speed recovery and prevent recurrence of disease.

H. pylori is hard to kill.

A common regimen is clarithromycin, amoxicillin and omeprazole. Diagnosis can be made with biopsy specimens taken at the time of upper endoscopy, or by a breath test or stool test. Blood testing is not reliable.

In people with stomach symptoms but who do not require endoscopy, many clinicians choose to look for H. pylori by stool or breath testing, and treat if present. Unfortunately, treating the infection is effective at curing symptoms only a minority of the time.

H. pylori increases the risk of stomach cancer and is the cause of most cases of a cancer called a MALToma. People with this unusual cancer often are cured (or at least have no evidence of disease after multiple years) with successful treatment of H. pylori, making it the first known cancer to be cured with antibiotics.

The risk for stomach cancer in North America is relatively low, so experts do not advise screening for H. pylori solely for the purpose of treating people to reduce their risk of stomach cancer. However, some people at high risk due to family history or other risk factors may elect screening.

Dear Dr. roacH: My doctor heard a heart murmur and sent me for an echocardiogram. This showed that I have some heart thickening due to high blood pressure, but that my valves are OK. The doctor said the murmur came from “aggressive heart muscle contractions.”

I’m 68, and my blood pressure is around 140/76.

What can I expect my heart health to be as I age? Is this progressive? I exercise 150 minutes per week.

Should I still push myself?

— B.G. anSWer: I looked at your echocardiogram report, and it showed your ejection fraction (the percent of blood the heart squeezes out every beat) was 75 percent (just on the border of too high), and the report noted abnormal relaxation of the thickened wall of the left ventricle.

These findings are indeed consistent with hypertensive heart disease.

HOrOscOpes

weatHer watcH tOday

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

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

MAjOR

29

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lake levels Full Yesterday Lake

Full Yesterday

Allatoona .............(840.0) .....832.29 Lanier .................(1071.0) ...1070.87 Blackshear ...........(237.0) .....233.62 Nottely ...............(1779.0) ...1762.23

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

Blue Ridge ........(1690.0) ... 1672.11 Oconee ...............(435.0) .....434.49

5:35-6:35 a.m............4:42-5:42 p.m.

Carters .............. (1072.0) ...1075.38 Sinclair ................(339.8) .....339.33

MINOR

POLLEN COUNTS Trees: Low Weeds: Low Grass: Low

Burton ...............(1865.0) ...1862.09 Seminole ................(77.5) .......79.82 Chatuge .............(1927.0) ...1918.71 Thurmond ...........(330.0) .....326.30 Harding ................(521.0) .....519.41 Tugalo...................(891.5) .....890.76 Hartwell ...............(660.0) .....658.95 Walter F. George . (188.0) .....188.60 Jackson ...............(530.0) ..... 529.11 West Point...........(635.0) .....632.72

today in history

lottery Tuesday Cash 3 Midday: 9-5-7 Cash 4 Midday: 3-8-2-5 Ga. 5 Midday: 9-2-4-0-7 monday Cash 3 Midday: 6-4-3 Cash 3 Evening: 6-4-5 Cash 3 Night: 1-2-1 Cash 4 Midday: 3-0-7-6 Cash 4 Evening: 5-9-3-7 Cash 4 Night: 9-8-2-8 Ga. 5 Midday: 1-1-7-3-3 Ga. 5 Evening: 8-3-1-2-8 Fantasy 5: 4-11-17-18-37

Lake

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TODAY’S HISTORY: In 1933, the era of alcohol prohibition ended as Utah became the 36th state to ratify the 21st Amendment.

In 1955, Martin Luther King Jr., E.D. Dixon, Rosa Parks and other activists launched an organized bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama.

In 1955, the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations merged, forming the AFL-CIO. TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS: Martin Van Buren (1782-1862), eighth U.S. president; George Armstrong Custer (18391876), U.S. Army officer; Walt Disney (1901-1966), cartoonist/filmmaker; Strom Thurmond (1902-2003), politician; Otto Preminger (1905-1986), film director; Little Richard (1932- ), singer-songwriter; Joan Didion (1934- ), author; Jose Carreras (1946- ), opera singer; Margaret Cho

(1968- ), actress/comedian; Keri Hilson (1982- ), singer-songwriter; Frankie Muniz (1985- ), actor.

TODAY’S FACT: The 21st Amendment expressly gave each state the right to restrict or ban the purchase or sale of alcohol, which meant that many states continued to enforce prohibition laws even after 1933. Mississippi was the last state to repeal prohibition, in 1966.

TODAY’S SPORTS: In 1978, longtime Cincinnati Reds star Pete Rose signed a four-year, $3.2 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies, becoming Major League Baseball’s highest-paid player at the time.

TODAY’S QUOTE: “A place belongs forever to whoever claims it hardest, remembers it most obsessively, wrenches it from itself, shapes it, renders it, loves it so radically that he remakes it in his own image.” — Joan Didion

reader’s guide

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To Report a News Item:

Dear amy: My young-adult daughter and her partner have lived together for four years.

They live 300 miles away.

I am very fond of my daughter’s partner and send her a birthday gift each year.

I have never received a thank you. I’m flexible on the format — a text would be fine with me, however … nothing.

This year I asked my daughter if her girlfriend had received the gift, but that didn’t feel right, either. In the future, should I text her girlfriend and ask her directly? Should I give up on this expectation and assume the gifts are received?

The tracking number lets me know it arrived on their front porch. Of course, I’d like to hear that I selected a gift that was appreciated, but I really want to know if she got it.

I’ve sent gifts to children knowing it was up to their parents as to whether I received a thank you.

When sending a gift to an adult, my expectations are that there’d be some acknowledgment.

Amy, are thank-you’s and/or acknowledgements passe?

— Did You Get It? Dear DiD you: A “thank you” never goes out of style.

And I would say that over four years’ time, a texted acknowledgment from an adult that a gift

deliver this message to the sender’s phone. It takes 30 seconds, and is much appreciated.

And yes, polite and high-functioning people often also follow up with a note.

Given this woman’s behavior, I think it’s time for you to transition toward Amy Dickinson birthday cards. Then all of you can stop worrying was received should be about it. considered the minimum Dear amy: How investment toward receiv- would I know if my nephing a gift the following ews who reside outside of year. the USA really love me Her behavior is embar- for who I am, or rather rassing to you, because care more about my monnow you have to face the ey and possibly thinking prospect of proactively that they’ll inherit some chasing down this gift. of it, since I am a gay man Let’s set aside the and have no children of whole idea of even saying my own? “thank you.” Packages get My contact with them is nabbed off front porches. via WhatsApp on birthEven with accurate track- days and the occasional ing, senders only know if exchange of photos. someone actually received — American Uncle a package — if the recipiDear uncle: If I ent tells them. had a litmus test to deterAnd, here’s a holiday mine if love was sincere, bonus for all of you clue- I would have patented less or awkward recipients it (and used it on my out there: ex-husband). I imagine a Let’s say you receive a series of urine test strips, gift (even if you don’t like marketed with the motto: it). Oh no! What should “If the strip turns blue, you do? At the very least, your love is true!” you should send a text — Many generational or call — saying, “Hi, I relationships are basically got the gift you sent! You exchanges: I give you this are so thoughtful to think (affection, attention, maof me. I really appreciate terial goods) and I receive it. Thank you!” that (gratitude, affection, A slightly more-clever recognition). When the (and more fun) version of exchange feels balanced, this is to take a selfie or the relationship proceeds a video selfie of yourwith mutual satisfaction. self holding the gift, and But here is the madden-

Who To Call

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Honored as a newspaper of General Excellence

2018

Sometimes a ‘thank you’ is a great gift Ask Amy

ing mystery about love.

Love is something that you simply have to give away, with brave and honest intentions — and with no guarantee that it will be returned to you. My suggestion for you is that you love abundantly and take satisfaction in your ability to be so emotionally generous. Even if you don’t leave these young people with any money, consider your attention and affection a lasting legacy.

Dear amy: In your answer to “Standards Too High,” you wrote: “Too often, women ignore or override their own instincts, and then later wonder why they didn’t pay attention to their own good sense.”

This is a true statement, but why leave out men? I get so sick of men being ignored in your column.

— Upset Man Dear man: This question was posed by a woman, and I directed my answer to other women.

But think of it this way: Women — and people across the gender spectrum — have been pretty tolerant of being referred to as “mankind” for hundreds of years. Welcome to your insight.

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

Readers may send postal mail to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068.

You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or “like” her on Facebook.

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

Keep your secrets tucked away until you are ready to share them.

Deal with institutions and government agencies directly to ensure you get things done properly. It’s best to control situations if you want to reap the biggest rewards. Greater opportunities are heading your way. Enjoy the journey.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Don’t leave anything to chance. Clear up unfinished business so you don’t have it hanging over your head when you want to kick back and enjoy the festivities.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Do what comes naturally and head in whatever direction will bring you the highest returns. Refuse to let anyone use guilt tactics to take advantage of you emotionally or financially.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) — Don’t make a change because someone has fed you false information or is pressuring you. Know who and what you are up against before you make a decision.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) — You can accomplish plenty if you do things for yourself.

Don’t let anyone lead you astray or take advantage of you. Use your intelligence and intuition to outsmart perpetrators.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) — You need an outlet, but it shouldn’t be something that could get you into trouble. As long as you are moderate and associate with reliable people, positive things will unfold.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) — Make a physical change that will attract attention. A sophisticated yet bold statement will give you that look of success.

Romance is on the rise, and professional goals can be reached.

GEMINI (May 21June 20) — You’ll have trouble seeing clearly if you let someone sway your opinion. Don’t get involved in something you cannot afford or that will lead to loss.

Joint ventures should be avoided.

CANCER (June 21July 22) — Take care of business and move on to projects you find more enjoyable. Preparations for functions you plan to attend or for a date night with a loved one look promising.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) — Take better care of your health. You may be in the mood to cut loose with friends and overdo it, but it won’t be worth it.

Stick to a healthy lifestyle.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) — Don’t let your emotions interfere with what’s right. Don’t take a chance that could cost you emotionally or financially. Avoid unpredictable, disruptive individuals.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Study all the pros and cons before you sign up for something that close friends and family may not like. Get the go-ahead as well as the pertinent details first.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Plan a get-together with someone you haven’t seen in a long time. Interacting with someone from your past will revive memories and remind you of goals you have yet to accomplish.

Wednesday, december 5, 2018 • 5a

gwinnettdailypost.com

Plan

•From Page 1A

chart the growth and development of the city for the next 20 years,” Mayor Judy Jordan Johnson said in a statement.

“As representatives of the people, we look forward to serving them — together with staff — in helping to realize the common vision we have all agreed to here, tonight.”

The plan puts a high priority on redevelopment, making it one of the city’s top initiatives alongside improving transportation services, encouraging the development of “high-quality” residential options, incorporating more arts and education, and working on stronger relationships between the city and businesses.

“Staff has diligently worked with numerous resources and constituency groups to update this plan and present what we believe is a realistic, workable strategy for the city’s future,” city manager Chuck Warbington said.

It also outlines nine “character areas” that will be spread out across Lawrenceville and will guide city officials in determining what types of development should happen in different parts of the city.

The full proposed draft version of the 110-page plan can be viewed online at bit. ly/2DSBc8W. Lawrenceville will now move on to begin the process of updating its zoning ordiDP_WED_OBITS_OBITSv2 12/4/2018

•From Page 1A

This map shows the nine character areas outlined in Lawrenceville’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The City Council adopted the plan after a public hearing Monday. (Special Photo)

More onLine Visit gwinnettdailypost. com to view a full draft of the 2040 Comprensive Plan

nance and development regulations, which are intended to support the comprehensive plan and help officials carry it out.

“The adoption of this plan will ensure that future staff members, elected leaders, board members, residents and visitors to Lawrenceville have a solid and achievable road map for success,” Warbington said.

The locations of the character areas include: • The downtown district; • The production character area, which would be around Briscoe Field; • The college corridor between Georgia Gwinnett College and downtown; • Traditional residential, which includes much of the southern half of the city; • Mixed-density residential on 4:43the PM eastern Page 1 side of the city,

just south of Winder Highway; • Neighborhood mixed use, which would separate downtown from the production character area with some additional areas scattered along major roadways, such as Grayson Highway, parts of Scenic Highway, Sugarloaf Parkway and Winder Highway; • Community mixed use areas on West Pike Street and Grayson Highway, just beyond the downtown district, as well as Buford Drive at Ga. Highway 316; • The office, distribution and technology area west of Lawrenceville Suwanee Road on Old Norcross Road; and • The medical services cluster character area around Gwinnett Medical Center, including parts of Old Norcross Road and Hurricane Shoals road south of West Pike Street.

Highway 316 instead of continuing into downtown Lawrenceville. Others from downtown Lawrenceville. changes require more significant reThe city is working with the Gwin- routing, as Ga. 8 and U.S. 29 are now turning off Lawrenceville Highway nett County and Georgia transportaonto Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road tion departments on the changes. and heading up to Ga. 316 via Ga. “We have simply redirected 120. the state routes away from our Ga. 8 and U.S. 29 would then join downtown,” City Manager Chuck Ga. 316 until they split at Winder Warbington said in an email. “This Highway. encourages a reduction in freight Meanwhile, Ga. 124 and Ga. 20 traffic and pass-through traffic in our immediate downtown and will create will use Jackson Street to bypass the rest of downtown Lawrenceville. a more pedestrian-friendly environGeorgia Department of Transporment for that area. tation will handle sign changes to “This isn’t a construction project, re-route the highways away from the and no roads are changing, only the heart of the city. Lawrenceville ofdirectional signage of these state ficials have also posted a map on the routes.” city’s website, www.lawrencevillega.

The end result is that Pike and org, and on the city’s Facebook page.

Crogan streets, as well as a portion “Our partners at the Gwinnett DOT of both Lawrenceville Highway and and state DOT offices have been inWinder Highway that are located credible to work with on this project inside the city, will now be solely from the beginning,” Warbington local roads instead of state or U.S. said. “We are grateful to them for highways. their support and diligence in helping Some of the changes are minor, us to efficiently realize this initiative.” such as Ga. 120 now ending at Ga.

obituaries Lavonia

Kathleen Ballew Kathleen Ballew, age 84, of Providence Church Rd., Lavonia, GA, passed away December 3, 2018 at Sacred Heart Hospital, Lavonia, GA with her family by her side. Born July 30, 1934 in Briceville, TN. She was the daughter of the late Harlen and Sadie Sparks. Mrs. Ballew was a stay at home mother and cared for her grandchildren. Kathleen was a founding member of the Galilean Baptist Church of Lawrenceville and deeply loved by her family and friends. She is survived by her son, Denny Ballew (Debbie); daughters, Ellen King (Morris), Pam Parks (Larry); grandchildren, Joey Pulliam, Cory Pulliam, Angel Womack, Chip Parks, Chad Parks, Danielle Earles, Deanna Ballew; seven greatgrandchildren; two great great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Thursday, December 6, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. The Funeral Service will be Thursday, December 6, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. in the Peachtree Corners Chapel of Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory with Cory Pulliam, Dr. Rex McPherson and Dr. Tolbert Moore officiating. Online condolences may be expressed at www.crowellbrothers. com. Arrangements by: Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 5051 Peachtree Ind. Blvd., Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 (770) 448-5757

Barton, Buford, GA; daughters, Marian Kalvert, Atlanta, GA, Hillary Barton, Snellville, GA; grandson, Anderson Kalvert; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Larry and Rachel Crawford, Greer, SC, Ben C. and Marcy Crawford, Deland, FL, Gary and Becky Crawford, Florence, SC; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Barton was born on May 6, 1949 in Baltimore, MD. He was a 1967 graduate of Massanutten Military Academy, Woodstock, VA and attended DeKalb College in Decatur, GA. He was a long time employee of both Pegasus Corporation of America and Thermo Fisher Scientific. He was a member of McKendree United Methodist Church, Lawrenceville, GA. Mr. Barton was a member and 32nd Degree Mason of the Norcross Masonic Lodge 228 F. & A.M. and Scottish Rite. Football was his love and he was an avid Falcon and Bulldog fan. He loved his family very much. A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 11:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home with Rev. Elaine Wilder officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 8, 2018 from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. To express condolences, please sign our online guest book at www. flaniganfuneralhome.com.

Monroe, GA

Jean B. Farmer (Brownlee) Buford

Charles Thomas “Tom” Barton Charles Thomas “Tom” Barton, age 69, of Buford, GA passed away Wednesday, November 28, 2018. He is survived by his wife of forty-five years, Rebecca Crawford

FARMER- Jean B. Farmer, age 82 of Monroe, formerly of Grayson, passed away December 2, 2018.

Funeral Services will be held at 2 PM on Thursday, December 6, 2018 at Harmony Baptist Church, 1310 Harmony Church Rd. Monroe, GA 30655. Rev. Brant Callaway, Rev. J.B. Reese, and Ed Byers will officiate. She will lie in state from 1 PM - 2 PM at the church prior to the service. Interment will follow at Chestnut Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, 2299 Rosebud Rd. Grayson, GA 3

30017. Jean retired from AT&T and was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie V. & Madeline Schieble Brownlee, and is survived by her loving Husband of 62 years, William C. Farmer of Monroe; Son: Bill Farmer of Duluth; Daughter & Sonin-law: Jan & Ed Byers of Monroe; Grandchildren: Bill & Amanda Farmer of Georgetown, TX, Brett Farmer of Atlanta, and Rachel Byers of Monroe. The family will receive friends from 5 PM until 7 PM on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at the Tim Stewart Funeral Home, 209 South Hammond Drive, Monroe, GA 30655. (770) 2672594. You may sign the online guest registry at www.stewartfh.com Loganville

Roy Gee age 72 of Loganville, passed away on Friday, November 30, 2018. A Private Service will be held at a later date at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY. Roy was a Vietnam Veteran who served with the United States Marine Corps. Roy also retired from Wal-Mart where he worked as an Asst. Manager. He is survived by his Wife, Linda Lee Gee of Loganville; Daughter & Son-in-law: Deborah & Brett Small of Myrtle Beach, SC; Daughter: Michelle Swanner of Loganville; Grandchildren: Ryan Herschel of Mooresville, NC; and Courtney Gee of Loganville; Great Granddaughter: Mia McGinnis of Loganville; and Brother: Roger Gee of Winder. Arrangements by Tim Stewart Funeral Home, 670 Tom Brewer Road, Loganville, GA 30052. 770-466-1544.

Please sign the online guest registry at www. stewartfh.com Arrangements by Tim Stewart Funeral Home, Inc. Sugar Hill, GA

Earl Lockhart Earl Lockhart, age 85, of Sugar Hill, GA passed away Sunday, December 2, 2018. He is survived by his wife of Fifty-seven years, Janice Lockhart, Sugar Hill, GA; Children, Jack Lockhart, S

Roads

Lawrenceville officials released this map to show changes to the designations for U.S. Highway 29 and Ga. highways 8, 120, 20 and 124 that were approved by the Lawrenceville City Council on Monday.

(Photo: City of Lawrenceville)

For more obituaries, visit www.gwinnettdailypost.com.

Sugar Hill, GA, Jill Bales, Ohio, Jimmy (Jessie) Lockhart, Killeen Texas, Allison Shafiq, Buford, GA; grandchildren, Hannah and Andrew Irvin, Joshua Dailey, Kyle Dailey, James Sidney Lockhart; Brother, Jerry Lockhart, California; special dear friends, Pat and Kenneth Thrasher, Buford, GA. Mr. Lockhart was born December 19, 1932 in Portsmouth, Ohio. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and Air force, having served a total of ten years. He studied at Long Beach state college, Long Beach, CA. He was a longtime member of West Buford Baptist Church where he taught Sunday school. A memorial Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at the West Buford Baptist Church.

1040 Shadburn Ave. Buford, GA 30518 with Rev. Jerry McCormick and Rev. Arthur Southerland officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Buford Baptist Church youth group c/o Mr. David Banks, church clerk 5321 Peach Blossom Tr. Flowery Branch, GA 30542. In memory of Earl Lockhart.

The family will receive friends at West Buford Baptist Church from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in foyer of church

gia, Twenty-four grandchildren, and a host of great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and other relatives.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, December 4, 2018 from 4:00 P. M. until 9:00 P. M. and Wednesday, December 5, 2018 from 10:00 A. M. until service time at the funeral home. A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at 2:00 P. M. from the Chapel of Carter Funeral Home. Interment will be in The Bold Springs Baptist Church Cemetery. Carter Funeral Home of Winder, Georgia is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.carterfhwinder.com Lawrenceville

William H. “Bill” Sammons

Sammons - William H. “Bill” Sammons age 74 of Lawrenceville passed away on Thursday, November 29, 2018. A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM, Monday, December 3, 2018 at Jordan’s Chapel Church of God, 7001 Jordan Chapel Road, Gibson, GA, the burial will follow in the church cemetery. Rev. David Jones will officiate. Bill was an U.S. Army Veteran and he retired from Gwinnett County Sheriff Department in 1992. He was also a member of the Norcross Masonic Lodge No. 228 F. & A.M. since 1969. Bill was 1 of 8 sons of the late Willis H. & Monroe Georgia Morgan SamMrs. Callie Montine mons. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Susie Peppers Sammons, Lawrenceville; Mrs. Callie Montine Pepdaughter, Gina Sammons pers, age 99, of Monroe, Wydra; granddaughters, Georgia passed away Morgan Aleece Wydra; December 2, 2018 at her Lottie Rebecca Wydra, all residence surrounded by of Bethlehem. In lieu of her family. She was born flowers donations may be in Gwinnett County to made to Jordan’s Chapel George Washington “Bud” Church of God. The family and Lilly Mosley Price, will receive friends 3:00 who preceded her in death. to 7:00 PM, Saturday, Mrs. Peppers was the wife December 1, 2018 at Tim of the late Vernie Lee PepStewart Funeral Home, pers and was preceded by 300 Simonton Road, S.W., a son, Buddy Tom Peppers.

Lawrenceville, GA 30046, She was a homemaker. and 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Surviving are children, Willie Lee Peppers of Winder, Georgia, Bertha Montine Peppers and Charles Thomas Peppers, both of Monroe, Georgia, and Patricia Diane “Anna” Callaway of Dacula, Georg

Sunday, December 2, 2018 at Taylor Funeral Home, 437 East Main Street, Gibson, GA 30810. Tim Stewart Funeral Home, 300 Simonton Road, SW, Lawrenceville, GA 30046, 770-962-3100. Please leave online condolences at www.stewartfh.com.

Sugar Hill

Mildred Wood (Fowler) Mildred Fowler Wood, age 95, of Sugar Hill, GA passed away Monday, December 3, 2018. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert Wood; parents, Dewitt and Sophia Smith Fowler; brother, Talmadge Fowler; and sisters, Lorene Thornhill and Marie Moss. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Beverly and Richard Buice of Seneca, SC, Judy and Kenneth Allen of Suwanee, GA; four grandchildren and spouses, Todd and Beth Buice of Seneca, SC, Cindy and David Lowery of Salem, SC, Joe and Barbara Allen of San Diego, CA, and Marcy West of Suwanee, GA; five great grandchildren, Whitney Lowery, Alex Lowery, Sophia West, Samantha West, Dylan Allen; one great, great grandchild, Violet White; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mrs. Wood was born January 31, 1923 in the “Haw Creek” community of Cumming, GA. She was retired from Scientific Atlanta. She was a member of the Haw Creek Baptist Church, Cumming, GA and was a member of the Woodmen of the World Society. The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at Savannah Plantation and Embracing Hospice for all the wonderful care given to Mildred Wood. A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 7, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens, Buford, GA with Rev. Kenneth Parker officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the graveside service from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Friday at Flanigan Funeral Home, Buford, GA.

perspectives

Todd Cline, Editor

todd.cline@gwinnettdailypost.com

Honored as a newspaper of General Excellence

gwinnettdailypost.com

2018

PAGE 6 A • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

Bush: Man of character I first met the man who would become America’s 41st president in 1968. He was a Houston congressman and I was a young reporter for a local TV and radio station. My first impression was how kind he was to this “kid,” who had just moved to Texas from the Washington, D.C., area and was just starting to learn the “language,” like “fixing to go” and “y’all.”

Everyone who worked for George H.W. Bush, or knew him, has a story to tell. I have several.

Mr. Bush was a letter writer like none other. I think I have an almost complete collection of his notes and letters, some typed, some handwritten, from every position he held in public life. These include Cal congressman, Thomas Republican National Committee chairman, chief liaison officer to the People’s Republic of China, U.N. ambassador, CIA director, vice president and president.

When he became president, I wrote him a congratulatory note and he responded on White House stationery. I later told him I was keeping the letter “just in case you amount to something.”

He laughed.

One time we were scheduled to meet at Walker’s Point, the Bush family compound in Kennebunkport, Maine, where they had vacationed for decades. Mr. Bush had to cancel due to an unexpected visit from an ambassador. Apparently concerned that my feelings would be hurt, he instructed an aid to get a phone number where he could call me. I gave him a payphone number at a local hardware store (this was before cellphones had become ubiquitous) and he called to apologize.

Our last meeting was two years ago at Walker’s Point, and this time he didn’t cancel. My youngest daughter was with me. We were told that the president sometimes appeared to doze off, but that he was listening. We had a wonderful visit, recalling Houston days. He asked questions and seemed lucid and interested in talking politics and world events.

On one visit to the Oval Office when he was president, he sat behind the desk and I sat in a chair next to him. When I showed his son, the 43rd president, that picture some years later, he motioned me over to the same desk, we sat down and the picture was replicated. I have both hanging in my office.

Mr. Bush was not a favorite of conservatives, who believed he would be the third term of his predecessor, Ronald Reagan. When he promised a “kinder, gentler nation,” some thought he was being critical of Reagan. In fact, a case could be made that it wasn’t Reagan who was unkind and ungentle, but his critics.

Mr. Bush faltered when he broke his “read my lips, no new taxes” pledge in exchange for a promise by congressional Democrats to cut spending. The Democrats got their tax increase, but didn’t deliver on spending cuts. He also took heat for nominating David Souter to the Supreme Court. Souter was sold to him as a conservative by Chief of Staff John Sununu, but he turned out to rule with the court’s liberal wing. Still, he gave conservatives Clarence Thomas, a solid constitutional originalist.

As president, Mr. Bush brought just the right attitude to the collapse of the Soviet Union, warning Americans they should not engage in triumphalism over the collapse of the communist regime (many celebrated anyway) and the end of the Cold War because of the uncertainty of what might follow. He also ordered the military to oust Saddam Hussein’s forces after they had invaded Kuwait, a highly successful operation.

Any epitaph on the life of George H.W. Bush must include at least three words: character, honor and integrity.

From his service in World War II, to his political career and post-presidency, not to mention his faithfulness to Barbara, his wife of 73 years.

Perhaps one of the reasons he seems so attractive is his contrast with the current bitter and corrosive political climate. We are not likely to see his kind again, but we will have his memory and example to recall when considering the definition of the word gentleman.

Readers may email Cal Thomas at tcaeditors@tribpub.com.

For just a few days, let’s be the nation George H.W. Bush wanted us to be WASHINGTON — President George H.W. Bush called on us to be a “kinder, gentler nation.” Sadly, we are far from that ideal. Our politics has never been that kind and gentle, to be sure, even in Bush’s day. Still, it has been unseemly to watch how some on both the right and the left have pounced on Bush’s passing as an opportunity to get in a dig at the current occupant of the Oval Office. Bush is not even buried yet, and already he is being used as a political cudgel.

No one would be more appalled by this than Bush himself. During the 1992 campaign, he faced personal attacks that he no doubt considered unfair. Yet, on his last day as president, Bush left a note for the man who defeated him that read, “You will be our President when you read this note. I wish you well. I wish your family well. Your success now is our country’s success. I am rooting hard for you.” It is a sentiment that the 41st president would surely have applied not just to his immediate successor but also to all those who succeeded

Marc Thiessen him as president. Today, many are praising Bush for this gesture, but too few seek to imitate it.

This week of mourning should be a time to hit the pause button on the politics of contempt. It should be a time, instead, to celebrate George H.W. Bush and educate a new generation about the world they inherited from America’s last leader from the Greatest Generation. Like all presidents, Bush had his flaws. He made his share of mistakes. But he was also a consequential president whose single term in office profoundly shaped the world we inhabit today. We take the peaceful collapse of the Soviet Union for granted

now, but it didn’t have to end that way. The U.S.S.R. was the most heavily armed empire in human history. Yet it fell without a shot fired. Its bloodless demise was no easy task. The same is true of the unification of Germany, the reality of a Europe whole, free and at peace, and a Pax Americana that has protected the advance of freedom in the post-Cold War world.

Yes, Bush set an example of civility in office — and we should celebrate that, too.

But it is better for us to shine a light on his example than to use it as a tool in our current wars of incivility. Bush was not naive. In his day, he was accused of racism, lying about his role in Iran-Contra, “coddling dictators” in Beijing and war-mongering in the Middle East. And long before there was the fiasco of the Brett Kavanaugh hearings, we had the fiasco of the Clarence Thomas hearings.

Bush spent decades in the corridors of power — from Capitol Hill to the United Nations, the Republican National Committee, the Central Intelligence Agency

and finally the Oval Office — so he knew Washington too well to expect us to be kind and gentle. What he asked of us was to strive to be kinder and gentler. We seem to have stopped even trying.

Perhaps, for just a few days, we can be the America he wanted us to be. Perhaps we can spend just a few days without the partisan bickering, the personal insults, the nonstop outrage and resistance — and celebrate the grace, generosity and gentleness of this good man. In his inaugural address, Bush declared, “This is a day when our nation is made whole, when our differences, for a moment, are suspended.” The same should be true of the day when we lay him to rest.

With his passing, George H.W. Bush has given us an opportunity to put aside our contempt and come together as a nation. That is his parting gift to us. The best way we can honor him is by emulating him, if but for a few brief moments.

May he rest in peace.

Follow Marc A. Thiessen on Twitter, @marcthiessen.

Critics of Christmas TV specials miss the point Good grief!

With everything in everyday American life politicized, count on someone, somewhere, being offended by something, anything — even classic Christmas TV specials.

A recent Huffington Post tweet promoting a video about a holiday classic says “‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ is seriously problematic.”

Why? Because Rudolph’s father, Donner, verbally abuses him for being different; because Santa is a bigot who mocks Donner for having an odd son; because the school coach encourages the other reindeer to bully Rudolph; and because Donner is a sexist who tells his wife she can’t search for the missing Rudolph because it’s man’s work.

One commenter’s tweet in the video sums the criticisms up well: “Yearly reminder that #Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a parable on racism and homophobia w/Santa as a bigoted exploitative (expletive).”

It’s unclear whether the video was intended as satirical or serious, but at this time of constant outrage, nobody would be surprised if it’s an actual criticism.

Because recent criticisms of

Tom Purcell “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” — some charge racism because black character Franklin sits alone on an old lawn chair at one side of the table — are not satire.

Such criticisms miss the point.

According to The Atlantic, the story of “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer” was created in 1939 by retailer Montgomery Ward, which featured Rudolph in promotional coloring books.

In 1949, the story became the basis for a hit song that transformed Rudolph from “misfit to hero.”

In 1964, when the stopmotion animation Christmas special was first broadcast, a whopping 50 percent of the American viewing audience watched it.

Why? Because “Rudolph” is

the ultimate underdog story.

We all know, of course, that Rudolph’s “very shiny nose” makes him different; that the other reindeer call him names; and that he triumphs over adversity.

He proves his many naysayers were wrong to try to make him conform. He demonstrates that what others saw as his biggest weakness was in fact his biggest strength.

To be sure, Rudolph’s hero journey should be celebrated, and it is, by millions of viewers — many of whom posted sensible tweets showcasing why the HuffPo video so woefully missed his story’s point.

Which brings us to Franklin in “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” Charles Schulz introduced Franklin Armstrong in his “Peanuts” comic strip in July 1968.

“At the time, the United States was struggling with desegregation, and while the country had taken several steps to integrate the population, issues about having black and white people attend the same schools, use the same bathrooms, or appear in the same comic strips were still matters of substantial controversy,” reports Snopes.com.

In other words, Schulz took a big chance by introducing a black “Peanuts” character. Correspondence with Harriet Glickman, a teacher in Los Angeles, explains why.

According to NPR, Glickman wrote Schulz a letter explaining why a black Peanuts character “could play a small part in promoting tolerance and interracial friendship.”

Schulz wrote back, explaining that he considered her suggestion, but “he worried that if he created such a character, black parents might think he was condescending to their families.”

Nonetheless, despite backlash from some newspaper editors and other naysayers, Schulz introduced Franklin, using “Peanuts” to help, as best he could, quell our divisions.

Schulz was courageous, not racist.

That such context must be provided to counter critics of America’s long-beloved Christmas specials makes me want to say one thing.

Good grief!

Tom Purcell is a Pittsburgh Tribune-Review humor columnist. Send comments to Tom at Tom@TomPurcell.com.

gwinnettdailypost.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 • 7A

world&nation

WORLD Protests spur France to suspend fuel price hike France will suspend fuel price hikes after ongoing protests turned violent over the weekend, in a major concession by President Emmanuel Macron’s government.

According to CNN affiliate BFMTV, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe will announce a moratorium Tuesday on fuel price hikes, which had been scheduled to go into effect on Jan. 1.

The rising cost of gasoline and diesel fuel sparked protests that have since evolved into broader demonstrations against Macron’s government, exposing tensions between the metropolitan elite and rural poor.

‘A time for reflection’

Bush’s funeral not about politics

PEOPLE Chrissy Teigen inspires parents of babies with corrective helmets

American model Chrissy Teigen sparked a social media trend after sharing on Twitter and Instagram a photo of her son, Miles, with a corrective helmet to treat his flat head syndrome.

The 6-month-old was

BY DEVAN COLE AND fitted for the helmet to RACHEL VENTRESCA fix his “adorable slightly CNN misshapen head,” Teigen posted.

A grandson of George Flat head syndrome, H.W. Bush said Tuesday or plagiocephaly, is a that the late 41st president common problem for wanted his state funeral to babies — one in every be an opportunity for the Former President George H.W. Bush’s family intentionally planned a state funeral for five is affected — because nation to put aside political him that will avoid criticism of President Donald Trump despite the long-running ani- they spend a lot of time mosity between the two families, The Washington Post reported Monday night. (CNN) sleeping on their backs, differences. the U.K.’s National Health “Whether it’s him or Service said. this past summer to make EU won’t give up his staff, I know, and my this is a time for reflection long-running animosity Doctors recommend grandmother, they all for our country to think between the two families, it clear that the president on new tech taxes wanted all current occuthat infants sleep on their about the values that make which would be in contrast would be welcome at the The EU plans to tax the backs to reduce the risk pants to be a part of this our country great,” Bush to the September memofuneral and, according to revenue generated by tech of sudden infant death process and to take advan- added. rial for Sen. John Mcthe paper, to “assure him companies that are on life syndrome, according to tage of this time where we President Donald Trump Cain, which was marked that the focus would be support. But Facebook and the American Academy of can put politics aside and and George P. Bush’s by implicit references to on Bush’s life rather than Google could still be on the Pediatrics. focus on the greatness of father, Jeb, engaged in a Trump and his behavior as their disagreements.” hook for millions in new Teigen later tweeted our country and devotion vitriolic primary rivalry president.

George H.W. Bush, payments. to causes greater than our- during the 2016 campaign, George P. Bush said who died Friday at the age that Miles — the younger France and Germany of her two children with selves,” Texas Land Com- and Trump has mocked Trump and Congress’ of 94, will be memorialpresented a compromise missioner George P. Bush and criticized the legacies devotion of time to his ized today at the National her husband, singer John measure on Tuesday that Legend — had been seetold CNN’s John Berman of both Presidents Bush. grandfather’s legacy Cathedral in Washington. would tax digital advertising and Alisyn Camerota on The Washington Post has reflects the late president’s The Post reported that one ing a physical therapist sales at 3 percent, but spare “New Day.” reported that the Bush commitment to bipartisan- person close to the funeral and is doing muscle work other online services that had in addition to the helmet.

“There’s a time for poli- family has intentionally ship. planning said the Bush been targeted under an earlier tics and there’s a time for planned a state funeral for “It’s important for the family’s decision to be proposal. governing, but there’s also him that will avoid criticountry to take this time amicable toward the curEddie Murphy — From wire reports a time for reflection, and cism of Trump despite the and reflect on the comrent president was “at least monalities that we have partly pragmatic” because becomes a father for the 10th time rather than the differencTrump has the final say es,” Bush said. over important aspects of Please Join Garden Plaza and The Bridge Eddie Murphy is a new The Post, citing a former the funeral, including the Senior Living Communities for our dad again. administration official, use of Air Force One to The 57-year-old acsaid that the Bush family carry Bush’s body between tor and his fiancée, Paige contacted the White House Texas to Washington.

Butcher, 39, have reportedly welcomed a son named Max Charles Murpresident,” Biden said to Saturday, December 8 | 10 – 3 p.m. applause at the University phy, born on Friday.

Fabulous Holiday Brunch and Photos with Santa – 11a.m. – 2 p.m. at Garden Plaza and The Bridge The couple are also of Montana. “The issues Biden believes that we face as a country the parents of a 2-yearLive Christmas Musical Entertainment by Adam Komesar and William Kitchens from 11a.m. – 2p.m. old daughter, Izzy Oona today are the issues that he is the ‘most Holiday Bazaar at Garden Plaza and The Bridge (Call Garden Plaza to register as a jewelry, arts and Murphy. have been in my wheelcrafts vendor at no cost!) qualified’ to be Murphy is also father to house, that I’ve worked Festival of Wreaths next president (Schools, companies, medical practices, churches and organizations may bring theme wreaths to sell, sons Eric, 29, and Chrison my whole life.” advertise or donate to seniors.)

During a stop for his tian, 28, with former girl“No one should run Great prizes! Register to win Nutcracker tickets, Dinner at Frankie’s, holiday baskets and other great book tour in Missoula, friends Paulette McNeely for the job unless they prizes!

Montana, Monday night, believe that they would and Tamara Hood, respecAll activities will be held at both Garden Plaza and The Bridge! former Vice President be qualified doing the job. tively, as well as daughters Residents, families, guests, prospective residents, senior industry professionals and referral sources Bella Zahra, 16, Zola Ivy, Joe Biden discussed his I’ve been doing this my are welcome!

18, Shayne Audra, 23, and 2020 prospects, saying whole adult life, and the RSVP required to (770) 236-8333.

Bria, 28, and son Miles he believes that he is the issues that are the most Mitchell, 25, with ex-wife “most qualified person” consequential relating to Nicole Mitchell Murphy. to be president, noting a the plight of the middle The actor has an decision is coming in the class and our foreign 11-year-old daughter, next two months, and ac- policy are things that I Angel Iris Murphy Brown, knowledging he’s a “gaffe have — even my critwith Spice Girls member machine.” ics would acknowledge, and “America’s Got Tal“I’ll be as straight with I may not be right but I ent” judge Melanie “Mel you as I can. I think I’m know a great deal about B” Brown. the most qualified perit,” he added.

— From wire reports 230 Collins Industrial Way, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 son in the country to be — From wire reports 576625-1

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8A • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

gwinnettdailypost.com

Republicans appear headed to victory in runoff election

BY CURT YEOMANS

47 percent.

“I just want Republican candidates every for secretary of state and Georgian Public Service Commisto know sion District 3 appeared I’m goBrad to be headed toward ing to be Raffensperger key victories over their fighting Democratic opponents in for them,” Tuesday’s runoff election.

RaffensWith 97 percent of the perger precincts across the state told reporting at 10:40 p.m., supportRepublican state Rep. ers just Brad Raffensperger, Rafter 10 Johns Creek, led former p.m. “I’m Chuck U.S. Rep. John Barrow, going to Eaton the Democratic nominee, make sure by a margin of 53 percent elections are clean, fair to 47 percent in unofficial and accurate, and that’s results. the No. 1 priority as your In the Public Service next secretary of state.

Commissioner race, the I’m very humbled; I’m Republican incumbent, very honored to have won Chuck Eaton, led his this race tonight.”

Democratic opponent, There were still a Lindy Miller by a similar large number precincts margin of 53 percent to left to be counted in curt.yeomans @gwinnettdailypost.com

Fulton County when Raffensperger addressed supporters. Gwinnett, Cobb, Chatham, DeKalb, Richmond and Lowndes counties were also still listed as counting ballots at that time.

Meanwhile, the Democratic candidates appeared to hold a slight lead over their Republican opponents throughout the night in Gwinnett County.

Barrow led Raffensperger with nearly 51 percent of the vote for secretary of state, and Miller led Eaton with nearly 52 percent of the vote in the Public Service Commission race with 92 percent of the county’s precincts reported at 10:06 p.m.

Results from the runoff will not be official until they are certified by the secretary of state’s office.

ALL

New N O T T CO TS PRIN

Gwinnett Parks and Recreation named state’s Agency of Year In addition to the agency award, employees The Georgia Recreation from Gwinnett Parks and Park Association’s and Recreation and District 7 named Gwinnett community partners Parks and Recreation the were recipients of other 2018 Agency of the Year awards. in the 50,000 and over The Volunteer Award population category. The was presented to Liberty award was presented at Mutual and Safeco the association’s annual Insurance Company’s district awards banquet Serve with Liberty hosted Oct. 24 in Oconee program. For the past six County. years, volunteers with the The GRPA Agency of program have completed the Year Award recognizes 1,122 hours of service in excellence and leadership Gwinnett County parks. in providing quality Monte Harpe received recreation programs, the Distinguished parks, and facilities that Professional enhance the quality of life Administrator Award in communities. for his dedication to the

field of aquatics and his work in the community.

The Roy A. Hammond Leadership Award was presented to Chris Minor, deputy director of Parks and Recreation, for his leadership and vision, inspiring success in his team, organization and the community.

The Hammond award is given to those who embody what a recreation and park professional should be: a leader who enjoys the special privileges of complexity, ambiguity and diversity.

For more information on GRPA, visit www. grpa.org.

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sports Madison Kerpics gwinnettdailypost.com

SECTION B • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

SOFTBALL PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Kerpics enjoys full breakout

WESLEYAN • JUNIOR

By David Friedlander david.friedlander@gwinnettdailypost.com

In a sense, it can be said Madison Kerpics had already arrived on the varsity level with her pitching contributions to Wesleyan’s Class A-Private state championship team as a sophomore in 2017.

However, it’s not a stretch to look at this fall as an overall breakout season for the 2018 Daily Post Pitcher of the Year as the Wolves claimed a second straight state title.

After all, while the junior right-hander was in some ways an understudy to thensenior Cassie Henning a year ago, she logged the lion’s share of the innings for the Wolves this fall.

And she responded by going 20-2 with a 0.68 earned run average, a single-season Wesleyan school-record 283 strikeouts in 134 1/3 innings and a .086 opponent See KERPICS, Page 7B

Wesleyan’s Madison Kerpics is the Daily Post’s Softball Pitcher of the Year. (Photo: Will Hammock)

INSIDE: DAILY POST’S 2018 ALL-COUNTY SOFTBALL TEAMS, 7B

SOFTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Jahni Kerr WESLEYAN • JUNIOR

Kerr’s adjustments go far beyond batting numbers

By David Friedlander david.friedlander @gwinnettdailypost.com

PEACHTREE CORNERS — To take a quick look at numbers, there doesn’t appear to be much difference in Jahni Kerr’s 2018 high school softball season from the 2017 campaign.

The Wesleyan junior center fielder’s .596 average with seven home runs, 23 RBIs, a 1.749 OPS, 10 doubles, seven triples, 48 runs scored and 35 stolen bases were either right at or nominally better than the Wesleyan’s Jahni Kerr is the Daily Post’s Softball Player of the Year. (Photo: David numbers she put up a year earlier.

Friedlander)

And the team’s results were the same each season, with the Wolves winning back-to-back Class A-Private state championships.

But Wesleyan coach Mary Stephenson says that what made Kerr the Daily Post’s 2018 Softball Player of the Year went beyond mere numbers to how much more of a complete player, and leader, she became.

In the process, she went from being just a difference maker to being a weapon that there was very little defense against.

“I said this about her before: I don’t know how I would defend her,” Stephenson, the 2018 Daily Post

Coach of the Year, said of Kerr. “The thing about her, especially from her freshman year, is she’s worked really hard to develop the other pieces of her game.

She has really developed as a slapper and bunting and being able to utilize her speed on top of being able to hit for power. So I really don’t know what you do with her. I’m glad that I don’t have to play against her.”

In a lot of situations against a player like Kerr, the solution to defending Kerr would be to simply put her on base with an inten-

See KERR, Page 8B

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2B • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

gwinnettdailypost.com

State football semifinals turn into GAC leads Black Friday for Gwinnett Co. trio all-region football selections REGION 7-AAA

By David Friedlander

david.friedlander @gwinnettdailypost.com

Black Friday might have been more than two weeks ago to retailers across the nation, but for Gwinnett County high school football, it may also be an appropriate term for this past Friday’s results as the Georgia High School Association’s football playoffs reached the semifinal round.

The county’s three remaining teams all fell in their respective semifinal games, with No. 8 Archer dropping a heart-breaking 22-21 overtime decision to top-ranked Colquitt County in Class AAAAAAA, while No. 9 Dacula was upset by unranked Northside-Warner Robins 14-7 and Lanier came up on the short end of a 42-7 final score against No. 1 Lee County.

The three losses assured that, for the first time since 1999, no school located in Gwinnett County will be playing for a state football title when this year’s championship games commence next week at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

“My seniors are 23-4 (over the past two seasons),” Archer coach Andy Dyer said.

“They’re some of the best kids on the planet Earth. In terms of the ball game, they laid it on the line. … I’m just heartbroken for them.”

Dyer’s Tigers (11-3) suffered perhaps the most painful loss of the three Gwinnett teams last Friday at Mack Tharpe Stadium in Moultrie because of how it happened.

Each team’s kicking game played a major role in the outcome, with Colquitt’s Ryan Fitzgerald booting five field goals in six attempts — with the made kicks coming from 40, 55, 50, 34 and the final one from 37 yards as regulation

the clock.

“Credit (Northside),” Dacula coach Clint Jenkins said afterwards. “That thing was a gut it-out-type of game, and they picked up one more (score).”

While the game marked a disappointing end to the season for Dacula, the elder Jenkins pointed out that it should take nothing away from what was a historic season for the Falcons, who made only their fourth trip to a state semifinal in the program’s long history, and the first since 2005.

“I’m so proud of these seniors in what they’ve done,” said Jenkins, in his first season as head coach after being promoted from his defensive coordinator position last offseason. “I love them all and, Quarterback Jarrett Jenkins reacts to the Falcons’ loss in the boy, they fought their guts out Class AAAAAA state semifinal game Friday night at Dacula. in this game.”

(Photo: Dale Zanine) Lanier coach Kory Mobbs had similar sentiments about time expired to force overtime still wasn’t enough. his Longhorns (10-4) after — and a blocked extra point “We held them eight their loss to defending state after Samaje Banks TD in the (straight) quarters without a champion Lee County (14-0) extra frame leaving the Tigers touchdown,” Dyer said. “But last Friday in Leesburg. a point short. there’s no question (FitzgerThey fell into an early hole Those circumstances were ald) is perhaps the best high they would never recover from eerily reminiscent of their school kicker I’ve seen. But when an errant punt snap gave season-opening 21-19 loss it’s like I told the kids, somethe host Trojans the ball on the to No. 9 Milton — which, times when you pour your Lanier 1-yard line, setting up coincidentally, will oppose heart and soul into something, the first touchdown just 3:43 Colquitt in next week’s title you can get your heart torn into the game. game — which included two out. But it’s always worth the The Longhorns tried to missed extra points and a risk.” fight back, pulling as close as missed field goal.

Dacula (11-3) was also 21-7 on Taj Barnes’ 68 yard But perhaps even more frustratingly close in its TD run with 9:36 left in the frustrating is that Archer AAAAAA semis loss to first half. couldn’t overcome Colquitt Northside-Warner Robins (9“We had a choice to make (14-0) for the third time in as 5) at Barron Field by holding as a team … we could have many meetings between the the Eagles scoreless after two laid down or we could have two schools — all either in the first-quarter touchdowns and battled,” Mobbs said. “I feel state semifinals or title game, just 214 yards of total offense, like our kids did that, that’s and all three losses came by a only to have its own offense why I’m so proud of them.” combined 10 points. bogged down on just 200 total But Shandarious KimFor the second consecutive yards. brough scored the third of his year, the Tigers’ defense held Jarrett Jenkins’ 3-yard four touchdowns on the night the Packers without a touchTD run with 2:42 remaining with 11 seconds left in the down throughout regulation. proved to be too little, too late half, re-establishing moColquitt found the end zone for the Falcons after Northside mentum Lee County would only once on Ty Leggett’s recovered the ensuing onside not relinquish the rest of the 9-yard run in overtime, but it kick and was able to run out night.

XNSP6379

Got the

From Staff Reports Greater Atlanta Christian was represented well on the All-Region 7-AAA Football Team, announced by the league’s coaches.

The region champion Spartans had three individual award-winners, including co-athlete of the year Ty James.

GAC’s Christopher Hinton was lineman of the year and Jeffrey Blake was defensive player of the year.

The all-region offense selections for GAC were quarterback Josh Rose, wide receiver Jake Floyd and lineman Elijah Pryor.

Pryor also made the all-region defense along with teammates Choe BryantStrother and Cole Jolly at linebacker, as well as Tyler Bride at defensive back.

Greater Atlanta Christian’s Ty James (13) reacts with teammates after catching a long touchdown pass against Dawson County during a regular season game at Greater Atlanta Christian School. (Photo: Dale Zanine)

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Prep Schedule BASKETBALL

Today

6 p.m. — Shiloh at Berkmar

WRESTLING

5 p.m. — Berkmar, Heritage at Jefferson 5 p.m. — Meadowcreek, Rockdale Co. at South 5 p.m. — Wesleyan, Centennial at Roswell

BASKETBALL

Friday

6 p.m. — Archer at West Forsyth 6 p.m. — Berkmar at Central 6 p.m. — Bethlehem Christian Academy at Providence 6 p.m. — Grayson at Loganville 6 p.m. — Landmark Christian at Wesleyan 6 p.m. — Meadowcreek at Brookwood 6 p.m. — Milton at Discovery 6 p.m. — Mountain View at Mill Creek 6 p.m. — Newton Co. at South 6 p.m. — Norcross at Parkview 6 p.m. — North at Duluth 6 p.m. — Peachtree Ridge at Collins Hill 6:30 p.m. — Hebron at First Presbyterian Day 6:30 p.m. — Rockdale Co. at Shiloh 7 p.m. — GAC at Dawson Co.

SWIMMING AND DIVING

4 p.m. — Bettie Hudson Memorial Diving Invitational at Mountain Park 5 p.m. — Lovett, Cambridge at Wesleyan

WRESTLING

4 p.m. — Dacula, White Co., Newton Co. at Madison Co. 4:30 p.m. — Central, Shiloh at South 5 p.m. — Santa Slam at South Forsyth 5 p.m. — Mill Creek in Spartan Invitational at Mountain Brook, Ala. 5:30 p.m. — GAC in Morgan Co. Christmas Classic

BASKETBALL

Saturday

• Collins Hill boys at Dawson Co. • Hebron boys and White Co. at Dawson Co. • Lithonia boys and GAC at Buford City Arena • Meadowcreek boys and Mountain Brook, Ala. in Bragging Rights Showcase in Huntsville, Ala. 12 p.m. — Central girls at Drew 2 p.m. — Centennial at Duluth 2 p.m. — Grayson girls and Rome at Dawson Co. 2 p.m. — Shiloh girls and East Hall at North Georgia 4 p.m. — Cambridge at Berkmar 4 p.m. — Flowery Branch at Lanier 4 p.m. — Grayson boys and ELCA at Paulding Co. 4 p.m. — Riverside Military Academy boys at Wesleyan 4:30 p.m. — Norcross boys and West Charlotte, N.C. at Buford 4:30 p.m. — South girls at Douglass 5 p.m. — Arabia Mountain at Mountain View 5 p.m. — East Jackson girls at Providence 6 p.m. — Archer at North 6 p.m. — Buford Showcase 6 p.m. — Cedar Shoals at Dacula 6 p.m. — GAC girls at McEachern 6 p.m. — Parkview at Decatur

The Home Teams

TODAY NEXT UPCOMING

Portland Timbers* Off Sat, 8 p.m.

FOX/92.9-FM

United

Falcons

Washington Denver At Dallas 7:30 p.m.

Sat, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 12, 3 p.m.

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

Orlando at South Carolina Off Fri, 7:35 p.m.

Sat, 7:05 p.m.

97.7-FM 97.7-FM

at Green Bay Arizona Off Sun, 1 p.m.

Dec. 16, 1 p.m.

FOX/92.9-FM FOX/92.9-FM

Georgia

Texas^ Off Jan. 1, 8:45 p.m.

ESPN/95.5-FM

Hawks

Gladiators

Tech

Minnesota# Off Dec. 26, ESPN

ESPN/93.7-FM FSSE = FOX Sports Southeast, FSSO = FOX Sports South *MLS Cup Final, Atlanta; ^Sugar Bowl, New Orleans; #Quick Lane Bowl, Detroit

Sports Calendar BASEBALL

Dec. 8: Red Stitches Baseball will host a clinic in Duluth with Brookwood grad and Florida Marlins prospect Will Banfield.

Banfield was selected by the Marlins with the 69th pick of this year’s Major League Baseball Draft.

The clinic, for middle- and high-schoolers, features two sessions, limited to 12 players per session. The first slot is 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., and the second session is 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Cost is $150 per session. For more information or to register, email RedStitches2014@ gmail.com.

FOOTBALL

Ongoing through Dec. 16: Lawrenceville Youth Association Football/Cheer will hold its annual association meeting and elections Dec. 16 at Rhodes Jordan Community Center.

Feedback

The meeting begins at 3 p.m.

LACROSSE

Dec. 9: Atlanta Storm Lacrosse, the new girls division of Thunder LB Lacrosse, will host tryouts for its girls teams Dec. 9 at Archer High School. The Dec. 9 session is from 5 to 7 p.m.

For more information, go to www.thunderlb3lacrosse. com/storm.

Ongoing through Dec. 15: Gwinnett Lacrosse Academy is accepting registration for its winter indoor lacrosse leagues and clinics at the Silverbacks Indoor facility in Suwanee. Boys leagues are for secondgraders to eighth-graders and girls leagues are for third-graders to eighth-graders. Learn to play clinics are offered for grades 1-8.

For more information, go to www.gwinnettlacrosseacademy.com.

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

gwinnettdailypost.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 • 3B

Getting to Know … Kadeem Wise Kadeem Wise is a 2009 graduate and former football player for Berkmar High School. He is his third season as the director of football operations for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, his college alma mater. UTC is a Division I program that competes in FCS. As a player, Wise was the only UTC player in school history to be named All-Southern Conference in each of his four years. Ended with 11 career interceptions.

Staff writer Taylor Denman and Wise discuss his years at Berkmar and Kadeem his duties Wise as director of football operations. He son, Jaylen, is eight years old.

TD: Can you go into detail about your responsibilities as director of football operations at UTC? KW: As director of football operations, I’m pretty much oversight for our football team. Whether it’s travel, meals, scheduling meetings, being the liaison to various departments — whether it’s academics, marketing, accounting.

Also with moving the team, I’m in charge of the budget when it comes to travel, so the hotels, the buses, the rooms. And in addition to that, I’m also the administrative assistant to the football department.

That’s when it comes into play with the coaches. So, travel reimbursements and rental cars, when they’re out on the road recruiting, and anything administratively they need on a dayto-day task.

TD: As an alum of UTC, also, did you get started as a graduate assistant or an intern at some point after your football career?

KW: I actually moved back to Lawrenceville for six or seven months.

Then I moved back to Chattanooga, and I was in training in the marketing department while also working in a truck-driving logistics job. I got a call from my former head

coach (Russ Huesman) that the job was open. I got an interview for it and got the job starting in February of 2016. That was while I was a grad student at Southern New Hampshire University.

TD: You were able to do that while finishing your master’s degree?

KW: Yes. TD: Can you tell me a bit about your playing years at UTC? KW: I started playing in 2010, I was Freshman of the Year in 2010 and I went on to make the all-conference team all four years while playing. In 2013, I made the all-American team and that was also the first year that we won the SoCon championship in I think 27 years. Before arriving, one of the biggest things, when I came to this university, is I wanted to make history. I did my research on it. I knew that in the earlier years they had a bunch of success here.

When I got here they were finding their way back to that success. I knew I wanted to be a part of something different and restore the glory and change the history of UTC. TD: Did you feel like your contributions helped accomplish that?

KW: I do. I felt pretty good once I graduated, once we won the championship in 2013. In 2014 and 2015 they won the SoCon Championship backto-back years and made the playoffs in 2014, 2015 and 2016. So I do feel like we helped restore that glory on that end during my playing years here.

TD: I’ve read you finished your career with 11 interceptions, so would you describe yourself as a ball-hawk?

KW: I would, and it’s kind of weird. My first year I had six, so I actually broke my head coach’s record. It was funny because I came in and told him, “I think I’m going to break this record, here.” And the media guys would ask him, “Are you not going to start him so he doesn’t break your record?” Then I moved from field corner to boundary corner, which is a totally different style of play. I would say ball-hawking, but they it

became more man-to-man once I moved to the boundary side. That’s when I saw the interceptions decline.

TD: Is there anyone on the football staff who carried over or was on the team when you were there?

KW: I believe all the guys are gone. … When I first got here, we had a bunch of guys who were still on the staff when I played. As of now, looking down the list we don’t have anybody left.

TD: So your senior year at Berkmar was 2009?

KW: Yes. TD: Can you describe your football experience at Berkmar? You were a standout player there on a program trying to pick itself up.

KW: We had our ups and downs. I think if you look back, there were a lot of times where we were close in games, but we couldn’t get over the hump.

The crazy thing about it is, me and a bunch of the guys still talk. We had about as much talent as anybody in Georgia; we just couldn’t put it all together.

I enjoyed my time. It helped tremendously from a mental aspect. It helped us understand that, so we’re not winning games but we’re close and we started to build leadership throughout the team. There are guys there who on a daily basis I still talk to today.

TD: Were there a lot of players that went on to play in college, or were you unique in that way?

KW: A few did from that 2009 team. I know that Troy Davis is currently playing with the (Toronto) Argonauts in Canada.

TD: You had two different head coaches, right?

KW: Yeah we had Wendell Early and John Thompson during my time there.

TD: Berkmar has a head coach (Willie Gary) who helped them get their first region win in a while and their best overall record in a few years.

In your opinion, what do you think Berkmar needed most to help the program get onto a winning track?

KW: I think they’re doing a good job now.

The head coach there now is doing a tremendous job, as you mentioned.

They got their first region win and one of the better records they’ve had in years. They’re buying into the system, which I think they’re doing. And ultimately if the community has bought into the system, I think that will help the stability. Having the players see that there’s a community that cares about them and keeps pushing for them and also having the student body showing support as well.

With Berkmar, it’s all about relationships. That’s one of the greatest things about that school. You build a lot of great relationships there with the staff and the teachers. I think that’s a big piece of it.

TD: How often do you keep up with your former teammates?

KW: We have a group chat, so messages are going on daily in there. I try to stay close, try to keep the friendship there and if there’s a chance we’ll meet in Atlanta to catch up.

TD: Do your high school friendships tell you something about how playing football can impact people off the field?

KW: It’s a game that shows you about life. It develops you in every aspect of your life. It helps you go through situations that you’ll go through in life once you start your job.

There are going to be situations that you learn from football and situations that will hold true forever.

TD: Did you play other sports at Berkmar?

KW: I ran track.

TD: What events?

KW: I was in the (400-meter relay), 100 and 200.

TD: Dead sprinter, huh?

KW: Anything over 200 meters, I was done. I tried to run the 400 meters and I would come in last almost every time. I told the coach, “Anything 200 meters, I am good to go.

Once I get over 200, it’s a struggle for me.”

The funny thing is, I actually made the baseball team my senior year, but I stopped to run track.

ATLANTA FALCONS

Bleak season continues vs. Ravens Field Level Media The Baltimore Ravens held the host Atlanta Falcons to 131 net yards and improved to 3-0 with rookie Lamar Jackson at quarterback in a 26-16 victory on Sunday.

Tavon Young returned a Matt Ryan fumble on a sack 11 yards for a clinching touchdown midway in the fourth quarter, shortly after Justin Tucker had hit from 47 yards for his fourth field goal of the game.

Jackson, filling in for Joe Flacco, had a 13-yard touchdown run in the first quarter and finished with 125 yards passing and 75 rushing despite missing a good part of the third quarter while being evaluated for a possible concussion.

Baltimore (7-5) rushed for 207 yards while holding Atlanta to 34 on the ground and dominated time of possession The only offensive touchdown by the Falcons (4-8) came on a 1-yard pass from Ryan, who was 16 of 26 for 131 yards, to Austin Hooper with four minutes left and Atlanta’s fourth straight loss already decided.

The other touchdown by the Falcons came on a 74yard fumble return by Vic Beasley Jr. Jackson, who completed 12 of 21 passes, was

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) fumbles as he is hit by Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Patrick Onwuasor (48) during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Photo: Dale Zanine-USA Today Sports)

kicked in the head on the play prior to Tucker’s 21yard field goal early in the third quarter and sat out the Ravens’ next possession for evaluation as thirdstringer Robert Griffin III led a 60-yard drive that ended with a 45-yard kick

by Tucker with 31 seconds remaining in the quarter.

The Ravens had a 17387 advantage in first-half yards, but needed a 41-

yard field goal by Tucker with six seconds left before halftime to make it 10-10 after Atlanta scored its first defensive touchdown of the season on Beasley’s return of a Jackson fumble early in the second quarter.

Each team scored on its opening possession before defense took over. Matt Bryant kicked a 44-yard field goal for the Falcons, and Jackson countered

with a touchdown on a keeper. The Ravens have scored on their first possession in each of Jackson’s three starts.

Flacco, who hurt a hip during Baltimore’s 23-16 loss to Pittsburgh on Nov. 4, returned to practice during the week, but was inactive for the game.

The loss made Atlanta 0-4 against the AFC for the season.

4B • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

gwinnettdailypost.com SWIM AND DIVE ROUNDUP

Eagles win pool duel with Bears (50 free, 21.34 and 100 free, 47.03) and Nathaniel Collins Hill posted vicStoffle (500 free, 5:01.78). tories over Mountain View The Broncos’ girls in swimming and diving winners were Lily Burke this past weekend.

(200 free, 1:59.33 and 500 The Eagles won the free, 5:17.81), Katelyn girls event 172-126, and Morris (50 free, 26.02), won the boys competition Jordan Wolfe (diving, 191-121.

183.85), Juliana Carey Their event winners (100 fly, 1:00.77 and 100 were Abigayle Wood (girls back, 1:01.49) and Kay200 individual medley, 2 lee McLester (100 breast, minutes, 16.44 seconds 1:13.09). and 100 breaststroke, Norcross got first1:08.74), Ava Callis (girls place finishes from Carter 50 freestyle, 27.09), Peter Januzelli (boys 200 IM, Smithson (boys diving, 2:04.42), Holland Danskin 347.00 (girls 200 IM, 2:14.91 points), and 100 free, 54.72), Michael James Moebes (boys divHall (boys ing, 170.70), Alexander 100 free, Whiteside (boys 100 back, 1:00.70) and Jacob Budnitz 53.44), (boys 100 breast, 59.69).

Andrew Peachtree Ridge Gautreaux tops Archer (boys Peter Smithson Peachtree Ridge won 500 free, both divisions of a meet 5:48.33), with Archer last weekend, Elizabeth Vazhenin (girls winning 200-64 in the girls 500 free, 5:37.64) and Nermin Mujkanovic (boys division and 226-58 in the boys division.

100 breast, 1:06.35).

Peachtree Ridge got Mountain View got boys wins from Seth Rudd victories from Jeff Roth(200 free, 2:02.51), Kyle well (boys 200 free, Adams (200 IM, 2:15.52 1:59.74), Jenna Taylor and 100 fly, 1:02.54), Max (girls 200 free, 2:04.33 and 100 butterfly, 1:02.40), Pulliam (50 free, 24.72), Keith Castro (diving, Hayden Brown (boys 200 170.80), Tyler Schroeder IM, 2:03.09 and 100 fly, (100 free, 50.97 and 100 56.53), Xzavier Reiter (boys 50 free, 23.72), Mag- breast, 1:04.95) and William Decker (500 free, gie Hennebaul (girls diving, 207.05), Sarah-Grace 5:33.39).

The Lions’ individual Thompson (girls 100 free, 54.82 and 100 backstroke, girls winners were Nikoletta Holt (200 free, 2:07.57 1:01.31) and Jacob Ly and 100 back, 1:03.86), (boys 100 back, 59.85).

Baylyn Dyer (200 IM, Brookwood 2:29.68), Adagia Leo (50 sweeps Norcross free, 27.91), Anna PenBrookwood posted a pair of wins over Norcross ning (diving, 135.85) and over the weekend, winning Jasmine Wilkins (100 free, 1:00.17).

192-87 in the girls meet Archer got wins from and 171-107 in the boys Anna Scull (girls 100 fly, division.

Boys winners for Brook- 1:06.66 and 100 breast, 1:14.51) and Jacob wood were Daniel Tran (200 free, 1:49.65 and 100 Abney (boys 100 back, 1:10.35). fly, 55.19), Aidan Stoffle

From Staff Reports

Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (4) celebrates after catching a touchdown against the Georgia Bulldogs during the fourth quarter Saturday in the SEC championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

(Photo: Dale Zanine-USA Today Sports)

OFF RACES to

the Pursuit for national championship enters semifinal stretch with the Playoff four set

Field Level Media

the list, and the Mountain West and the ACC each had a pair of representaNo. 1 Alabama will meet No. 4 tives. The American Athletic ConferOklahoma and No. 2 Clemson will ence had just one, and Notre Dame is face No. 3 Notre Dame in the College an independent.

Football Playoff, announced Sunday The most significant drop from last afternoon. week was Georgia, a 35-28 loser to Big 12 champion Oklahoma (12-1) Alabama in the SEC title game on edged out No. 5 Georgia (11-2) and Saturday. The Bulldogs switched spots No. 6 Ohio State (12-1) for the final with Oklahoma, which avenged its spot in the playoff. loss to Texas earlier this season with Alabama (13-0), Clemson (13-0) a 39-27 win in the Big 12 championand Notre Dame (12-0) all finished ship game, putting Georgia out of the their regular seasons undefeated. Ala- playoff picture. bama (SEC) and Clemson (ACC) won LSU fell out of the Top 10 in favor their conference championships. of Washington, which beat Utah for Alabama and Oklahoma will play the Pac-12 championship. in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 29. Also Neither Georgia coach Kirby Smart that day, Clemson and Notre Dame nor Ohio State coach Urban Meyer will meet in the Cotton Bowl. took the CFP committee to task for its The national championship game is decision to include Oklahoma instead scheduled for Jan. 7 in Santa Clara, Calif. of their teams.

In the final Top 25 standings of the “I wasn’t surprised by it,” Smart season, Michigan, undefeated Censaid, per CBS Sports. “We did what tral Florida, Washington and Florida we could, went out and played a great rounded out the Top 10.

Alabama football team in what was The SEC dominates the list with a great football game, but we respect eight teams represented, followed by the decision of the committee and the Big Ten and the Big 12 with four certainly respect the job they have to each. The Pac-12 put three schools on do in making that decision.”

COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF RANKINGS The final College Football Playoff rankings: 1. Alabama (13-0) 2. Clemson (13-0) 3. Notre Dame (12-0) 4. Oklahoma (12-1) 5. Georgia (11-2) 6. Ohio State (12-1) 7. Michigan (10-2) 8. Central Florida (12-0) 9. Washington (10-3) 10. Florida (9-3) 11. LSU (9-3) 12. Penn State (9-3) 13. Washington State (10-2) 14. Kentucky (9-3) 15. Texas (9-4) 16. West Virginia (8-3) 17. Utah (9-4) 18. Mississippi State (8-4) 19. Texas A&M (8-4) 20. Syracuse (9-3) 21. Fresno State (11-2) 22. Northwestern (8-5) 23. Missouri (8-4) 24. Iowa State (8-4) 25. Boise State (10-3)

Gwinnett honors November’s top Sugar Bowl to host Georgia, Texas swimmers, divers Field Level Media

Shortly after getting left out of the College Football Playoff, Georgia learned its postseason fate Sunday afternoon. And the Bulldogs find themselves in the most high-profile game outside of the playoff.

Georgia (11-2) will face Texas (9-4) in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans on Jan. 1, a matchup of conference championship game losers. The fifthranked Bulldogs lost to No. 1 Alabama 35-28 in the SEC championship game on Saturday, shortly after the No. 15 Longhorns lost to Oklahoma 39-27 in the Big 12 title game.

With that win, Oklahoma vaulted past Georgia for the fourth and final spot in the four-team CFP. The Sooners (12-1) will face the top-ranked Tide (13-0) in the Orange Bowl in Miami on Dec. 29 in one of the two CFP semifinals.

No. 2 Clemson (13-0) and No. 3 Notre Dame (12-0) play in the other semi, Dec. 29 in the Cotton Bowl in Arlington, Texas.

Ohio State, which finished 12-1 with its victory over Northwestern in the Big Ten title game Saturday night but was placed sixth by the CFP committee, will face 10-3 Pac-12 champion Washington in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., on New Year’s Day. No. 7 Michigan (10-2) will face No. 10 Florida (93) on Dec. 29 in the Peach Bowl in Atlanta, the first of the New Year’s Six bowl games.

2018-19 COLLEGE FOOTBALL BOWL SCHEDULE

Full 2018-19 bowl bids and schedule: Dec. 15 Celebration Bowl Atlanta North Carolina A&T vs. Alcorn State New Mexico Bowl Albuquerque, N.M. Utah State vs. North Texas Cure Bowl Orlando, Fla. Tulane vs. Louisiana Las Vegas Bowl Las Vegas Arizona State vs. Fresno State Camellia Bowl Montgomery, Ala. Georgia Southern vs.

Eastern Michigan New Orleans Bowl New Orleans Middle Tennessee State vs. Appalachian State Dec. 18 Boca Raton Bowl Boca Raton, Fla. Northern Illinois vs. UAB Dec. 19 Frisco Bowl Frisco, Texas San Diego State vs. Ohio Dec. 20 Gasparilla Bowl Tampa, Fla. Marshall vs. South Florida Dec. 21 Bahamas Bowl Nassau, Bahamas Florida International vs. Toledo Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Boise, Idaho BYU vs.

Western Michigan Dec. 22 Birmingham Bowl Birmingham, Ala. Wake Forest vs. Memphis

Armed Forces Bowl Fort Worth, Texas Houston vs. Army Dollar General Bowl Mobile, Ala. Troy vs. Buffalo Hawaii Bowl Honolulu Louisiana Tech vs. Hawaii Dec. 26 First Responder Bowl Dallas Boston College vs. Boise State Quick Lane Bowl Detroit Minnesota vs. Georgia Tech Cheez-It Bowl Phoenix TCU vs. Cal Dec. 27 Independence Bowl Shreveport, La. Temple vs. Duke Pinstripe Bowl New York Wisconsin vs. Miami Texas Bowl Houston Baylor vs. Vanderbilt Dec. 28 Music City Bowl Nashville, Tenn.

Purdue vs. Auburn Camping World Bowl Orlando, Fla. Syracuse vs. West Virginia Alamo Bowl San Antonio Iowa State vs. Washington State Dec. 29 Peach Bowl Atlanta Florida vs. Michigan Belk Bowl Charlotte, N.C. South Carolina vs. Virginia Arizona Bowl Tucson, Ariz.

Nevada vs. Arkansas State

Cotton Bowl (CFP semifinal) Arlington, Texas Clemson vs. Notre Dame Orange Bowl (CFP semifinal) Miami Gardens, Fla. Alabama vs. Oklahoma Dec. 31 Military Bowl Annapolis, Md. Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati Sun Bowl El Paso, Texas Pitt vs. Stanford Redbox Bowl Santa Clara, Calif.

Oregon vs. Michigan State Liberty Bowl Memphis, Tenn.

Missouri vs. Oklahoma State Holiday Bowl San Diego Northwestern vs. Utah Gator Bowl Jacksonville, Fla. North Carolina State vs. Texas A&M Jan. 1 Outback Bowl Tampa, Fla. Mississippi State vs. Iowa Citrus Bowl Orlando, Fla. Kentucky vs. Penn State Fiesta Bowl Glendale, Ariz.

LSU vs. UCF Rose Bowl Pasadena, Calif.

Washington vs. Ohio State Sugar Bowl New Orleans Texas vs. Georgia Jan. 7 College Football Playoff National Championship Game Santa Clara, Calif.

Orange Bowl winner vs. Cotton Bowl winner

Discovery: Derek Little II, Olivia Gesner The Gwinnett County Duluth: Ryan MacKinSwim and Dive Booster non, Tyler Reason Club announced its awards Grayson: Daniel for the best from NovemMyrick, Rachel Peden ber competitions this week.

Lanier: Alenjandro Each Gwinnett County Naranjo, Lyna Mai Public Schools program Meadowcreek: Armani had one boy and one girls Hernandez, Andrea Rubio selected for the honor as Mill Creek: Nicholas swimmer or diver of the Kalenik, Abigail Tashlein month for November.

Mountain View: Jeffrey Rothwell, Alexis Inman The winners are as folNorcross: Carter Janulows: Archer: Christian Stew- zelli, Emma Fass North Gwinnett: Blake art, Anna Scull Fredlund, Carolina IzaguBerkmar: Victor irre Nguyen, Tyonna Byers Parkview: Jacob White, Brookwood: Aidan Abigail McCulloh Stoffle, Lily Thomas Peachtree Ridge: Keith Central Gwinnett: Castro, Jessica Allibone Jackson Berger, Ella Shiloh: Patrick Thomas, Napier Angelica Rojas-Hernandez Collins Hill: Peter South Gwinnett: Smithson, Abigayle Wood Dacula: Jacob Harrison, Andrew McFarland, Lily Cahill Avery Van Nus

From Staff Reports

GGC seniors earn academic awards From Staff Reports Two seniors from Georgia Gwinnett College’s most successful women’s soccer team were named to the Google Cloud NAIA Academic All-American team.

Ellinor Bertilsson and Stina Andersson were named to the first and second Academic All-American teams, respectively.

Bertilsson is the first GGC women’s soccer player to earn first-team

Academic All-America accolades. She was a secondteam selection as a junior.

On the field, the midfielder appeared in 14 matches this fall and helped the defense post 13 shutouts. She is majoring in business.

Andersson is a secondteam Academic All-America selection after a 2018 season in which she scored six goals and was named the Association of Independent Institutions’ Player of the Year.

1205_GDP_WED_CLASS_Classifieds 12/3/2018 3:59 PM Page B5

gwinnettdailypost.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 • B5 GWINNETT DAILY POST ADVERTISING DEADLINES LINERS: Pub. Date: Wednesday Deadline: Monday 3 pm Friday Thursday 3 pm Sunday Friday 11:30 am DISPLAY AD: Pub. Date: Wednesday Deadline: Friday 3 pm Friday Tuesday 3 pm Sunday Wednesday 3 pm

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 FULL TIME

FULL TIME

BUS DRIVERS NEEDED!

Healthcare Staffing Analyst sought by physician staffing srvcs in Berkeley Lake, GA. Analyze & implmt new sourcing resources, specialized training, & dvlpmt of recruiters’ & sales staff skillsets.

Target key mkts & mktg channels for sourcing locum tenens healthcare prof’ls & driving new bus. demand.

Coord the dvlpmt of mktg materials, collaterals, social media & broadcast emails among others. Track expenses & ROI of sourcing resources & assist leadership in directing resources. Reqs: Bachelor’s deg in Mktg, Psychology or Human Resources + 5 yrs of post-baccalaureate exp in Recruitment/Staffing. Submit resume to: MDAHR@mdainc.com - Division Recruiter, HR Dept., MDA Holdings Inc.

FULL TIME

ASSISTANT CITY CERK/ACCOUNTS PAYABLE The City of Statham is accepting applications for a Assistant City Clerk/Accounts Payable position at City Hall. Provides professional and confidential administrative support to the City Clerk, and other members of city management as required. Requires strong computer skills, to include Microsoft Office, accounts payable experience as well as Internet research skills. Also calls for excellent interpersonal, organizational, and project coordination skills. Requires the ability to work well with all levels of internal management and staff, as well as vendors and the public, a high level of confidentiality and problem solving skills, and the ability to provide accurate, timely, and courteous customer service under stressful and adverse circumstances and other duties as assigned.

Benefits include vacation, paid holidays, sick leave, health insurance, and retirement plan.

All applicants being considered for employment shall be required to pass a drug and/or alcohol screening test contingent to being hired. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. Applications are available at City Hall, 327 Jefferson St., or online at www.cityofstatham.com. You may fax the completed application and resume to (770) 725-0202 or email them to the City Clerk at m.chang@ c i t yo f s t a t h a m . c o m . The City would like to fill this position soon but will be opened until filled. The City of Statham is an equal opportunity employer.

Financial Reporting Accountant Zydexo, LLC, Peachtree Corners, GA is seeking a Financial Reporting Accountant to prepare and analyze the company’s consolidated financial statements. BS or foreign equivalent in Finance, Accounting, Buss Admin, or related + 1 yr of exp as General Accountant, Staff Accountant, Financial Analyst required. Submit resume to HR at sanam925@yahoo.com

Great Pay Starting At Over $15 Per Hour • Great Benefits Package • Part Time Only 30 Hours Per Week CDL License required and We Will Pay For Your Training

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TEACHERS WANTED Gwinnett County School System Positions available throughout Gwinnett County Competitive Salary With Great Benefits!

Voted In Top “200 Forbes Best Employers�

Apply at

gwinnett.k12. ga.us/employ ment

For More Info:

school-jobs.net Apply at

gwinnett.k12. ga.us/employ ment

CDL Over the Road Truck Driver Ron Parks And Associates - Agent For CDS Transport Group - 10147 Industrial Drive, Covington, GA 30014 - Seeking 10 temporary fulltime CDL over-the-road truck drivers to start immediately through 2019 - Work schedule is Monday - Saturday - Approximately 5 am - 8 pm - OTR hours will vary We offer a competitive pay rate of $0.42 cents per mile - pay increases will be based on job performance - Must fully understand how to operate and safely drive an assigned vehicle be organized - detailed oriented - possess an updated DOT medical card – travel requirements are based on customer’s assignments – driver can be stationed at any state in the United States – Transportation provided from work base to job assignments - complaint with FMCSA and DOT regulations - A valid CDL and 1+ year commercial driving experience is a must - Please call 770-788-4025 for more information regarding these positions or send resume to trucks@ronparksandassoc.net or fax 678-729-9870.

Street Department The City of Statham is accepting applications for a position in the Street Department.

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6B • Wednesday, decemBer 5, 2018 CLOsE TO HOME

John McPherson

FAMILY CIRCUs

gwinnettdailypost.com Bill Keane

Today’s Solution

BEETLE BAILEY

BLONDIE

Mort & Greg Walker

Dean Young & John Marshall

DILBERT® Scott Adams

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE

ZITs

PEANUTs

Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

GARFIELD

Paul Gilligan

Brian Crane

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers.

The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once.

solution to today's sudoku

WHATZIT sOLUTION: Free-for-all

PICKLEs

Charles M. Schulz

POOCH CAFE

Jim Davis

Chris Browne

Today’s Answer: Kids

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 • 7B

ALL-COUNTY SOFTBALL

2018 Gwinnett Daily Post All-County Softball Player of the Year: CF Jahni Kerr, Wesleyan, Jr. Kerr, who is already committed to Florida State, had a well-rounded junior season, hitting .596 with seven home runs, 23 RBIs, 10 doubles, seven triples, a 1.749 OPS, 48 runs scored and 35 stolen bases in helping the Wolves to their second straight Class A-Private state championship.

She also was strong in the field with 17 putouts and a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage Pitcher of the Year: RHP Madison Kerpics, Wesleyan, Jr. Kerpics enjoyed a break-out junior season, posting a 20-2 record with a 0.68 earned run average, a singleseason school-record 283 strikeouts in 134 1/3 innings and a .086 opponents batting average in helping the Wolves to their second consecutive Class A-Private state title. She also contributed at the plate by hitting .386 with a home run, 19 RBIs and an .892 OPS Coach of the Year: Mary Stephenson, Wesleyan For the second straight season, Stephenson took a young squad — the Wolves featured only two seniors and 10 player who were either freshmen or sophomores — and guided them to the Class A-Private state championship FIRST TEAM Position Players 1B Brinaya Bailey, Grayson, Sr. .370, 1 HR, 21 RBIs, 7 2B, 22 R, 11 SB, .478 OBP, .984 fielding pct.

3B/SS Faith Barth, Archer, Soph. .393, 3 HR, 31 RBIs, 11 2B, 27 R CF Emily Brown, North Gwinnett, Sr. .359, 21, 23 SB CF Dallis Goodnight, Mill Creek, Soph. .563, 1 HR, 20 RBIs, 39 R, 44 SB, 1 2B, 5 3B, .975 OPS,.963 fielding pct.

IF Aleix Hudson, Peachtree Ridge, Sr. .434 avg., 1 HR, 10 2B, 2 3B, 1.112 OPS SS Maddison Koepke, Mill Creek, Sr. .448, 8 HR, 41 RBIs, 7 2B, 2 3B, 34 R, 8 SB, 1.347 OPS, .940 fielding pct.

1B/OF Jennifer Nolan, Wesleyan, Sr. .462, 29 RBIs, 10 2B, 1 3B, 1.055 OPS, 29 R, 2 SB, 1.000 fielding pct.

1B Katie Perkins, Buford, Sr. .402, 1 HR, 20 RBIs, 2 3B, 1.014 OPS,

Kerpics

•From Page 1B

18 R CF Maddie Simmons, Collins Hill, Sr. .353, 8 HR, 8 2B, 13 IBB, 19 HBP 3B Danielle Taitt, Brookwood, Jr. .406, 2 HR, 32 RBIs SS Aaliyah White, Grayson, Jr. .370, 2 HR, 20 RBIs, 3 2B, 6 3B, 48 SB, 34 R, .960 fielding pct.

OF Mariah Wicker, Buford, Sr. .432, 5 HR, 20 RBIs, 8 2B, 2 3B, 1.238 OPS, 36 R, 23 SB, 18 BB Pitchers RHP Chandler Dennis, North, Sr. 21-5, 1.00 ERA, 241 K, 10 shutouts, 3 no-hitters RHP Kylie Macy, Grayson, Soph.

20-4, 1.55 ERA, 200 K, 153 IP RHP/1B Sophie Mooney, Collins Hill, Sr. 9-3, 2.40 ERA, 111 K, 90 IP; .427, 6 HR, 15 2B, 1 3B, 20 IBB at the plate SECOND TEAM Position Players OF Emily Ammons, Mill Creek, Sr. 1B Haley Cummings, North Gwinnett, Soph.

OF Lauren Evens, Mountain View, Soph.

IF Natalia Herrera, Mill Creek, Sr. SS Reece Holbrook, Wesleyan, Soph.

1B Faith Lawrence, Norcross, Soph.

OF Jasmine Moore, Archer, Sr. C Hannah Morgan, Buford, Sr. OF Abbi Perkins, Buford, Soph.

SS/2B Jin Sileo, Dacula, Jr. CF Trinity Spear, Shiloh, Sr. LF Ansley Thompson, Lanier, Jr. Pitchers RHP Sarah Currie, Mountain View, Soph.

LHP Kelsey Parks, Brookwood, Sr. RHP Sara Shaw, Mill Creek, Jr. THIRD TEAM Position Players SS Anabel Adams, Buford, Jr. SS Denver Bryant, Duluth, Jr. IF Madison Dobbins, Mill Creek, Soph.

OF/SS Elsie Igberaese,Dacula, Sr. CF Brianna Johnson, South Gwinnett, Sr. SS Ann Margaret Jones, Norcross, Jr. LF Kailyn Jones, Grayson, Soph.

3B Kayla Grace Lang, Grayson, Soph.

OF Kaytlyn Moore, Archer, Soph.

SS Hannah Nolan, Providence, Jr. 2B Kelly Paulson, Buford, Sr. 3B/OF Savannah Sommer, Wesleyan, Sr. Pitchers 2B/RHP Sierra Blackburn, Norcross, Jr. RHP Sydney Boulware, Dacula, Soph.

RHP Layton Morris, Hebron, Fr.

batting average.

“Yeah, last year she kind of battled some injuries, so that was part of why Columbus was kind of really her breakout,” Wesleyan coach Mary Stephenson said of Kerpics.

“This year, I was just so excited for her to step up because she was going to take on the majority of the pitching, where she was able to share that with Cassie (Henning, last year).

“Man, I don’t think she could’ve done more to step up.

Our first game (this season) she strikes out 23 in a 10-inning game. And then all the way down to Columbus, I don’t remember her having a bad outing the whole season.”

Indeed, Kerpics was as dominant from the beginning of this season as she was at the end of last season, when she threw several clutch innings during Wesleyan’s state title run, including getting the win in extra innings of the championship game.

Part of it was the fact she was fully healthy, though Kerpics says that she had a little extra motivation to perform this year knowing that her role would be greatly increased in the circle.

“I think I definitely felt more comfortable from that state tournament to my travel ball team (last summer),” Kerpics said. “It definitely helped me.

“Last year, I was only a sophomore. We had a senior pitcher (Henning), so I didn’t feel like a backup or anything, … but I wasn’t as comfortable because I didn’t have the experience. But this year, I’ve pitched a lot more … and it also helps me confidence-wise knowing that I was the go-to pitcher.”

But it was more than just a year of maturity that helped Kerpics come into this season with a little more confidence.

It also helped that she had worked on her pitches, especially her breaking pitch and change-up, which Stephenson

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Wesleyan’s Madison Kerpics throws a pitch during the Wolves’ first game against Tatnall Square in the Class A Private State finals on Saturday in Columbus. The Wolves lost Game 1, but won the second game of the day to win the state title. (Photo: David McGregor)

says made a big difference in the circle.

“She’s got good velocity that’s really gotten better as she’s gotten older, but it’s really her spin,” Stephenson said. “When she spins the ball, she’s got nasty late-breaking movement. It just fools hitters.

And she just has a lot of different weapons, including her change-up. I think that really sets her apart.”

As good as Kerpics’ pitching was, it wasn’t her only contribution to the Wolves’ second straight state title. She was also a force at the plate, where she hit .386 with a home run, 19 RBIs and an .892 OPS. It’s a role she doesn’t get to fill much during her summer travel season, which had added benefits for both herself and the team.

“It kind of helps me forget if I’m upset with my performance (in the circle) a bit,” Kerpics said. “When I’m hit-

ting, I can let off some steam if I swing harder. It was fun when I was able to contribute hitting.”

The combination of her pitching and hitting only enhances her as a recruiting target for many major college programs. She lists Georgia Tech, Michigan and Georgia among her current favorites.

Kerpics is also happy to contribute to Wesleyan’s cause with her leadership.

More specifically, she is happy to serve as kind of a mentor to up-and-coming freshman pitcher Jessica Nolan, who went 6-2 with a 2.57 ERA and 57 strikeouts in 46 1/3 innings, in a similar fashion to the way Henning helped mentor Kerpics in the past.

“I do everything I can to help. This year when she was starting out pitching, she was very serious. … I was trying to help her with her composure and her mental game.”

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UP TO

8B • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018

gwinnettdailypost.com

Kerr

•From Page 1B tional walk.

But with her speed and baserunning instincts, a walk often turns into a double or triple, which wouldn’t do an opponent much good.

Still, it was a strategy that some opponents tried in the early going this season, which forced her to show a lot more patience at the plate to await her pitch.

“I’d say a lot of teams — some knew me and some didn’t from travel ball and from school ball,” Kerr said. “It was a lot of patience coming from travel ball. The pitching got a lot slower, so I was just trying to adjust and do what I could to help out the team.”

In addition to her addressing her hitting style and taking a more patient approach at the plate, the other biggest adjustment Kerr made in her game came in the outfield, which was already strong, and like her hitting, went beyond her perfect 1.000 fielding percentage.

But Stephenson said it had an equally big impact on the Wolves as her offensive ability.

“Yes, I think it gets overlooked just because when you see it, it can be jaw-dropping, but you don’t necessarily get a chance to see it (all the time),” Stephenson said. “She covers from gap-to-gap (in the outfield). She had a triple play this year that she initiated. … She’s good out there.

“I think, too, for our pitching staff, it just gives them that much more confidence because they really feel like … if (a hitter puts) a bat on the ball, we’ve got one of the fastest kids in the state (in center field).”

IN BRIEF Archer’s Shells signs with Grambling State

tional in Greenville, S.C., over the weekend, while the Collins Hill Eagles finished third.

Archer senior Payton Shells has The Wolves were led by Logan signed with the Grambling State Ashton, who won his weight University (La.) fastpitch softball class and was named the event’s program. most outstanding wrestler for the Shells played a key role as a second straight year. Charlie Darsenior at Archer, where her father racott and Blaine Bergey also won Byron Shells is a football and track weight class championships in and field coach. She went 11-5 with the tourney, which featured teams a 1.69 ERA, helping the Tigers from Georgia, South Carolina, to the second round of the Class North Carolina, Alabama, Virginia AAAAAAA state playoffs. and Delaware.

Buford’s other placers were Lions’ Dutton chooses Nick Stonecheck (second), Evan Lee University lacrosse Dimaggio (second), Nick Corday (fourth) and Nick Cambria (fifth).

Peachtree Ridge junior Audrey Collins Hill’s top finisher was Dutton announced her commitment recently to the Lee University Lucas Desilva, who won the tournament championship in his women’s lacrosse program. weight class. Teammates Joey Dutton was Peachtree Ridge’s Felix, Elijah Griffin and Tomari winner of the Leadership Award Fox each placed second. and Scholar-Athlete Award at this The Eagles also got fourthyear’s Gwinnett Lacrosse Awards place finishes from Powell Gilfor high school competition. bert and Fredrick Carson. Carson also won the event’s most falls Mill Creek’s Duffy award.

picks Belmont Abbey

Wesleyan’s Jahni Kerr (left) and Reece Holbrook celebrate a run in the Class A-Private state championship game at the GHSA State Fast Pitch Softball Tournament. (Photo: Cory Hancock)

Of all of the upgrades Kerr made to her game this fall, perhaps the most important was her maturation as a team leader.

It still may be a bit of a workin-progress, but her leadership skills have come a long way since she was a freshman, and she hopes to continue honing those skills as she comes back for her senior season and tries to help Wesleyan to a threepeat for the state title before

heading off to play college ball at Florida State, where she is already verbally committed.

“There are only two seniors ahead of me this (year),” Kerr said. “So I knew that my class, the junior class, would have to step up an help lead the sophomores and freshmen. … I feel like my ability to lead others has improved tremendously, along with talent and pitch selection and … seeing the ball better.”

Mill Creek senior Will Duffy has made a commitment to the Belmont Abbey College (N.C.) men’s lacrosse program.

Duffy is a midfielder for the Hawks.

Buford’s Fenno picks Young Harris lacrosse Buford senior Max Fenno has made a commitment to the Young Harris College men’s lacrosse program.

Fenno is a midfielder and faceoff specialist for the Wolves.

Buford wrestlers win Southern Slam meet

Buford’s wrestling team won the 50-team Southern Slam Invita-

Mountain View places second at home meet

Mountain View’s wrestling team finished second at the challenging, eighth annual Compound Sportswear Mountain View Duals.

The Bears went 4-1 against difficult competition, losing only to Woodland-Cartersville 50-18.

They posted wins over Forsyth Central (34-27), Vestavia Hills, Ala. (38-33), Richmond Hill (3332) and North Hall (38-31).

Harrison Spikes went 5-0 at 220 pounds to lead Mountain View.

R.J. Aguirre (113), Mason Askew (120), Garrett Spikes (182) and Luke Hennebaul (195) each went 4-1.

— From Staff Reports

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