The Paper April 2, 2015 Edition

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Jackson County Schools to tighten belt

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

The Jackson County School System continues to face significant budgetary restraints in its anticipated revenue and expenditures for the 2015-2016 school year so the Jackson County Board of Education invested time at its recent retreat to discuss resource allocation.

The school board and staff convened March 25 for retreat which continued the ongoing strategic planning initiative which has been under way with consultant Mark Wilson.

State-mandated increases in expenditures along with necessary additional classroom instructors and instructional materials will cause district expenditures to exceed overall revenues by approximately $1.74 million.

Board chairman Michael Cronic asked, referring to the potential impacts of actions by the Georgia General Assembly which will push more costs from the state to local communities. “Where are the resources? More and more are being taken away from us.”

Board of Education weighs options including reduction in force, next ESPLOST and delaying renovations for middle school on west side In an effort to limit reduction to the district’s fund balance during next fiscal year, the district is already planning to reduce several positions through attrition due to resignations, retirement, contract non-renewals or transfers to other vacant positions.

The reductions include two and a half media resource specialist positions, one and a half elementary P.E. positions and four and a half administrative positions.

When the board conducted public meetings on the proposed repurposing of Benton Elementary School, one of the system’s with an undersized student popoulation, the community was advised that other cost-saving measures would have to be implemented in order to keep Benton functioning as an elementary school. Loss of positions was among those options to be explored.

Also being recommended for the next school year is the elimination of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) program and all associated positions, with the program to instead be conducted by Lanier Tech. Students would have the opportunity to pursue the program through dual enrollment.

The school board will likely finalize the proposed measures at its April meeting.

The board is also weighing its options related to the additional middle school capacity needed on the west side of the county. The plan has been to renovate the existing West Jackson Primary for a middle school when the primary and intermediate combine next year as West Jackson Elementary School.

Superintendent April Howard said it was prudent to gather more information due to the age of the original structure and its

unique challenges.

Julie Griffin of Southern A&E reviewed the project and drafted several plans for a phased-in project which could cost $14.7 million to $15.7 million. She also suggested the option of demolishing the existing school and rebuilding in order to address some issues that a renovation cannot tackle including the traffic concers and the close proximity of the existing building to the busy highway. The gym would be spared and updated with some modern touches.

Griffin estimates that new construction costs for the same square foot facility which would be better suited for a middle school at $18.4 million. Should the new construction be pursued, there would be a two-year delay in occupying the school which would allow time for the student population to grow.

“Looking at the numbers, we want to be responsible and responsive to the school system,” said Howard.

The possibility of an Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax referendum (ESPLOST) in November is also being discussed with other school systems.

JEFFERSON shooting Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Braselton campus

ANewly-opened NEW ECONOMIC ENGINE 100-bed hospital follows growth

By JEFF GILL

Regional staff

In a journey that has taken nearly a decade to complete, the 100-bed Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton opens today in South Hall County.

“It’s been a long time planning, developing and designing, and now it’s time to become operational,” hospital president Anthony Williamson said. “And I think everybody here is just really looking forward to that opportunity to begin serving the community.”

Hospital staff and doctors have been putting final touches on the hospital in the past few weeks, including going through dry runs in departments and checking and rechecking equipment.

And though patients will be received for the first time yesterday, the hospital has opened its doors already in other public functions, including an open house Sunday and a donor recognition on March 25.

NGMC Braselton, which is off Ga. 347 near Ga. 211/Old Winder Highway, certainly marks a major expansion of the Gainesville-based Northeast Georgia Health System.

For decades, the main hospital has been off Spring Street in Gainesville.

“We’ve established a brand over the many years ... of terrific care, compassionate care, strength in our clinical outcomes, but also strength in how we handle families and our personal interactions and the level of customer service we provide,” said Carol Burrell, president and CEO of the health system, in a prepared statement. “And we’re just really excited to be bringing that level of care to the Braselton area. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us. ...

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“It took a tremendous amount of vision and community support to make this dream a reality.”

Burrell cited “incredible support” from the Hall County Board of Commissioners “at every juncture, including the backing of our bonds and the tangible benefit this support brings to our entire community.”

The hospital offers a broad range of advanced surgical and medical services, with an emphasis on outpatient surgery as well as emergency services and specialty care in many areas, such as cardiology, oncology, orthopedics and neurosciences.

Overall, Williamson said, “doctors, nurses, clinical staff and community members all participated in the process of designing our beautiful new hospital

and creating a health care experience that will be patient- and family-focused.”

Today’s opening kicks off an era of enhanced medical care for South Hall, especially in an area near Braselton and Gwinnett and Barrow counties and not too far from busy Interstate 85.

The county’s emergency services will be ready to respond as needed when the hospital opens, said Chad Black, deputy chief of Hall County Fire Services.

“It will help us keep medical units in the south end of the county by transporting to (the Braselton) hospital” instead of Gwinnett Medical Center, Northside Hospital-Forsyth or NGMC in Gainesville, he said.

See HOSPITAL, 2A

Scott Rogers Regional staff

This is one of the new developments under way in the Highway 347 area which represents the boost of activity fostered by the new hospital. The aerial shot (above) of the hospital campus is courtesy of Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Volume 9, Number 22 Health 4-5A Obituaries 3A Police report 2A Puzzles 7B Sports 1-2B

Got a news tip? Call 706-658-2683 or e-mail editor@clickthepaper.com Want to advertise? Call 706-658-2683 or e-mail dpurvis@clickthepaper.com Delivery questions? Call 770-532-2222 or e-mail circulation@clickthepaper.com

GBI: 3-year-old boy dies of selfinflicted wound The Georgia Bureau of Investigation expects to quickly wrap up its ongoing investigation into the Sunday afternoon shooting incident which left 3-year-old Jaxon Kullem White of Jefferson dead.

The victim of the apparent accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound, the youngster died Sunday evening after being transported to Athens Regional Medical center by Jackson County EMS. Responding to a 911 call to the 300 block of Fairfield Drive, Jefferson police responded around 2 p.m. on Sunday and found several adults attempting to assist the injured child.

White “was believed to have shot himself with a gun at his residence,” according to a GBI report.

The Jackson County Division of Family and Children Services, along with GBI, Jefferson Police and the Jackson County Coroner’s Office, are investigating the matter.

Assistant Special Agency in Charge Jesse Maddox, who released the child’s name on Tuesday, said the investigation by Agent Jeremy Burton will soon by turned over to the district attorney’s office.

See SHOOTING, 2A

Name restored to part of Hall’s Friendship Road

BY JOSHUA SILAVENT

Regional staff

In a surprising move, the Hall County Board of Commissioners voted March 26 to restore the Friendship Road name for a stretch of Ga. 347 between Interstate 985 and Ga. 211.

The 3-2 vote rescinds a decision by the board in 2013 to rename the road Lanier Islands Parkway following a widening of the South Hall thoroughfare.

The Lanier Islands name will remain for Ga. 347 west of I-985.

It was an emotional meeting, with dozens of employees from Lanier Islands resort dressed in blue T-shirts showing their support for the 2013 change, which they said benefits their livelihood.

Supporters of Friendship Road, meanwhile, pleaded with the board to respect the history and heritage of the community that gave the road its name.

“This has become quite an issue,” Commission Chairman Richard Mecum said, recounting the recent history.

Ga. 347 was known at one time as Friendship Road, Holiday Road and Thompson Mill Road between Lake Lanier Islands and Ga. 211.

The Friendship Road name reflects the community that originated there about 170 years ago.

Commissioners Jeff Stowe, Billy Powell and Scott Gibbs voted two years ago for the change to Lanier Is-

See FRIENDSHIP, 3A

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HOSPITAL

cation for the new hospital, and it began that process in November 2006.

The Georgia Department of Community Health approved the certificate of need in May 2007, but opposition from Barrow Regional Medical Center would throw the matter into the courts.

Finally, in September 2010, the hospital got the green light to move forward on the project after the Georgia Supreme Court upheld the certificate of need.

To get public input on how the new hospital should look, as well as serve the area, the hospital held about 10 community meetings.

“We also did an online survey, where he had more than 1,000 people submit feedback,” health system spokeswoman Melissa Tymchuk said.

The hospital conducted a “patient experience” process involving different treatment scenarios, such as working with someone in the emergency room or a person afflicted with cancer.

“We had staff, physicians and community members participate, and they gave 40-plus hours of time to that,” Tymchuk said.

The project’s architect, Min-

Continued from 1A

And the highest call volumes are in South Hall.

The opening also marks the end of a long process in hospital development.

Many new residents flooding the fast-growing area stretching from Buford to Braselton may not even realize the hospital originally was planned on 52 acres on Ga. 13/Atlanta Highway at what was then Friendship Road (now Ga. 347/Lanier Islands Parkway).

In June 2004, the hospital board restudied the area’s growth and decided to look for a new location on the east side of Interstate 985.

Eventually, officials settled on 119 acres in what was wideopen land off Thompson Mill Road and next to Village at Deaton Creek, a booming retirement community in Hoschton.

But the site wouldn’t remain remote, as the Georgia Department of Transportation had plans at the time to build a new Ga. 347 between I-985 and Ga. 211, with six lanes running by the hospital campus.

Logistics aside, the health system had to earn state certifi-

POLICE REPORT Green DOT scam alert issued by Mangum Investigators with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office have recently become involved in an investigation regarding citizens receiving Green DOT Cards in the mail.

Sheriff Janis Mangum says, “Please be aware that this is potentially a scam. If you have not applied or registered for a Green DOT Card but you have received one of these in the mail, please report it to your local law enforcement agency.”

Sheriff Mangum advises citizens not to activate the card or add money to the account. “Be advised that Green DOT Bank does not send out these cards as a promotion,” she said.

Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office are currently working with Green DOT officials in an attempt to resolve this matter.

Citizens are encouraged to notify their local law enforcement agencies of any suspicious persons, crimes or other relevant information by calling 911 or the

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 706-367-8718. Also please remember that you can provide information without being involved or identified by contacting the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office’s anonymous tip line at 706-367-3784 to report any criminal or suspicious activity.

Child molestation charges are levied in Barrow; other victims are being sought An Auburn man was arrested March 20 on child molestation charges, according to the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office.

Richard Paltrineri, 64, the husband of the operator of SusanSilly Expressions Pre-School Program, a statelicensed home day care facility at 1441 Elliot’s Lane in Auburn, was taken into custody Friday morning and a search warrant was later executed at the facility.

The investigation was prompted after a child who attended the day care made a disclosure to parents who

BEST KEPT SECRET in Hall & Forsyth County

Flowery Branch

neapolis-based HGA, helped move the process along, having done something similar with a previous hospital client.

“We wanted to know things that would make (the hospital) a destination, if you will,” said Kurt Spiering, a principal in the firm. “We just wanted to find out what the community was looking for ... that it might become more than just a health care facility on that site.”

In December 2012, area clergy blessed the property in an unusual groundbreaking ceremony featuring Gov. Nathan Deal and other dignitaries.

Foundation work began on the $114 million project in February 2013.

With the hospital trying to make the building as environmentally friendly as possible, workers began drilling on 150 geothermal wells in an open field in June 2013. The wells are expected to provide heating and cooling for the hospital.

Patients started getting a peek at the new hospital in January, when the attached five-story, 113,000-square-foot Medical Plaza B, which features specialty practices and services, opened.

Officials long had projected the hospital would open by April 1, but it wasn’t a certainty until

notified law enforcement.

Among items obtained were numerous documents Sheriff’s officials believed will contain the identities of former children who were at the facility.

Over the weekend, Sheriff’s investigators also spoke with family members of known victims and investigators are also following up with children and families who may have had contact with Mr. Paltrineri or the home day care facility.

There have been multiple children identified as victims at this point. Their ages range from 2 to 4 and include both boys and girls.

Mr. Paltrineri is currently charged with multiple counts child molestation, sexual battery and cruelty to children, one count of aggravated sodomy and one count of aggravated child molestation.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.

Sheriff’s investigators are in the process of doing a detailed background investigation on Mr. Paltrineri, as

March 20.

More openings are likely to come as the campus continues to expand, including more patient rooms and services.

Many of the practices that moved to Medical Plaza B came from nearby Medical Plaza 1, which opened in 2008.

In July, a bridge connecting Medical Plaza 1 to a road circling the hospital campus is expected to be finished.

Plans call for an eventual Medical Plaza 2. The hospital serves as the campus’ A building, with future plans for C and D buildings, officials have said.

Radiation therapy services are expected to start at Medical Plaza 1 by the end of this year.

And the hospital has received a certificate of need from the Department of Community Health for obstetric services.

The certificate requires the hospital to complete work on the new unit by Jan. 2, 2017.

In keeping with that deadline, the hospital will submit plans to the state by September, Tymchuk has said.

See more on the new hospital on Pages 4A and 5A and in the 2015 Progress edition which will be published in the April 9 edition of The Paper.

well as the at home day care itself.

Citizens who have used the services of the above listed persons or facility are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office and relay this information. Furthermore, should anyone have information regarding Paltrineri’s activities or associates, feel contact the Sheriff’s Office via email at crimetips@barrowsheriff.com, or by phone at 770-307-3080, ext. 3085.

Jefferson Police ■■ A threatening phone call was reported March 28 by an Elrod Avenue resident who said the caller threatened to kill him and burn down his house. The man claims the complainant had two pieces of his mail.

A Jefferson resident contacted police March 23 after returning from a weekend of military service to find his wife had moved out and taken two children and most of their belongings. He said he had filed for divorce two

Continued from 1A Jefferson Police Chief Joe Wirthman said his officers responding to the incident included a father whose child was born just last week. He said incidents involving the death of a child are particularly difficult for emergency responders.

“I can’t comprehend what this family is experiencing right now, and it’s also tough on those responding to the scene,” said Wirthman. “It’s just a horrific tragedy.”

Evans Funeral Home is handling funeral arrangements for the family.

In neighboring Barrow County, a 9-yearold girl was shot at her Barrow County home Monday and she remained in an Atlanta children’s hospital trauma unit on Tuesday.

The girl was listed in stable but “very guarded critical condition” as of Tuesday morning, said Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith.

The girl was shot while her mother’s boyfriend was cleaning his gun at the Giles Road home. The mother and her boyfriend have cooperated with authorities during the investigation, said Smith, and two other children in the room at the time of the shooting have been interviewed through The Tree House, a counseling service for women and children.

“We’ll investigate this and get with (District Attorney’s) office to see if any possible charges are being brought forward,” Smith said Tuesday afternoon. “Right now, we’re just waiting to see what happens to this young lady and hoping that everything will be OK.”

years ago but the couple was attempting to work things out. Another child was staying with a friend at the direction of the woman. The man contacted Jefferson City Schools and learned a school in Florida has requested one of the children’s school records.

■■ A custody dispute was reported March 28 after a mother picked up her child against the wishes of their grandparents who have been caring for the children for the past three years. The grandparents said the mother may have put the child in danger if she was driving under the influence of drugs.

The Jackson County Water & Sewerage Authority reported issues on an access road from Jameston Drive where concrete trucks are being cleaned with chunks of concrete blocking the access to the authority’s gate.

Trespassers are also damaging signs and coming onto the property, according to the March 23 report. It was determined the property is in the jurisdiction of the Jack-

son County Sheriff’s Office.

■■ A woman was taken into custody for battery after a dispute with her live-in boyfriend in the Jameston Drive area. The woman had struck the man and hit him again as officers attempted to handcuff her.

■■ A driver wanted for leaving the scene of an accident in Monroe on March 24 was taken into custody at a Jefferson apartment. The driver had struck a fence and had the truck towed from the scene without reporting the mishap. The driver said he did not have a driver’s license.

■■ LOST KITTY CAT: A young female Calico (mostly black with some orange coloring) jumped from a vehicle on Saturday, March 21, on Highway 60 between New Cut Road and Highway 124 while on her way to the vet.

“Mickey” wasn’t wearing a collar. She had been adopted after being abandoned in her neighborhood. If you have found Mickey, call 706-6543162.

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Social Security - It’s Complicated!

This paid advertisement written by Jeff Cutter, Investment Advice by Scott Moore.

A sound retirement plan consists of three essential pieces: an advanced tax plan (ATP), an income plan, and an investment plan. While the investment plan should be the nucleus, proper income and tax plans are critical and are often overlooked.

Social Security is a very important piece of the income strategy. Over the past few weeks I have received several questions concerning this benefit that I want to share with you. It is important to understand that benefit calculations can be complex and should be carefully evaluated before making any decisions.

John from Gainesville asked me if his spouse, who had her own career and who is currently retired, can start receiving a spousal Social Security benefit at age 62, and then at her full retirement age of 66 start receiving Social Security based on her own career earnings. In other words, John wants to know if his wife can receive income from age 62 to 66 while she waits to get her own full retirement benefits.

The short answer is no, she cannot. John’s wife is not permitted to file a restricted application for spousal benefits before her full retirement age. If she applies at age 62, she will collect her own benefit and it will be permanently reduced.

To receive a spousal benefit while your own benefit earns delayed credits, you must wait until full retirement age (FRA) to file.

Another good question came from Mary from Athens who recently asked me if a husband waits until age 70 to collect benefits and dies at age 71, whether the wife can collect a survivor benefit immediately. And if so, she wanted to know what portion the wife would get of the husband’s benefit.

This one can be tricky. There are two elements to the calculation of a survivor benefit. The first is what’s called the original benefit. This amount is based on the deceased’s primary insurance amount (PIA), or actual benefit, if he or she has already started receiving it. The second factor is the age when the surviving spouse claims the survivor benefit.

For example, let’s say Mary is 60 and her husband, Mike,

delayed collecting his benefit until he turned 70 and was receiving $3,000 a month at the time of his death. This is the original benefit.

It is the amount Mary will receive if she claims it at her full retirement age. However, if Mary claims it now, at age 60, her survivor’s benefit will be reduced to 71.5 percent of her husband’s original benefit, giving her a permanent benefit of $2,145.

The percentage of the original benefit that Mary can collect will vary depending upon the age at which she begins collecting her survivor benefit.

A good financial advisor will counsel widows and widowers about the reduction in benefits when claiming a survivor benefit before full retirement age.

Unfortunately, many misinformed advisors will encourage a surviving spouse to start collecting his or her survivor benefit as soon as he or she becomes eligible for it. But this will result in a permanently reduced benefit, which could hamper the surviving spouse’s future standard of living.

This issue is compounded if Uncle Sam continues with minimal 1 to 1.5 percent Cost of Living

(COLI) increases to Social Security.

Recently, Jim from Gainesville asked me in an initial consultation whether anything can be done if someone who is already collecting Social Security benefits realizes that he or she made a mistake in applying too early.

This is a good question. I am encountering more and more folks who claim Social Security early and then after reading about the value of delaying benefits, regret their decision. The rule is if it’s been less than 12 months, a person can withdraw his or her application to collect. If an individual does this, he or she will be free to reapply at any time in the future. The catch is that the benefits already received must be repaid. If it’s been more than 12 months, and a person is full retirement age, he or she can suspend the benefit and earn the 8% annual delayed credits on the current amount.

So let’s say Jim applied for Social Security at 62, more than a year ago. His PIA is $2,000 and his benefit is 75% of $2,000, or $1,500. When Jim turns 66, he can suspend his benefit and earn 8 percent annually in delayed credits

on the $1,500 benefit. So, when he turns 70, he can claim his benefit again and increase his permanent benefit to $1,980 ($1,500 x 1.32 = $1,980).

Folks, make sure you seek out financial professionals who are retirement specialists before making any decisions regarding your Social Security benefits. As explained above, such decisions can dramatically change your income plan, which is an integral part of a successful retirement plan.

Be vigilant and stay alert, because you deserve more.

For answers to these questions, contact Scott Moore 770-535-5000.

In addition to being a fiduciary, Scott is an Ed Slott Master Elite IRA Advisor.

210 Washington St. NW, Suite # 106 • Gainesville, GA 30501 • 770-535-5000 • 12600 Deerfield Parkway, Suite # 100 • Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 • 678-566-3590 www.MooresWealthManagement.com Investment advice is offered by Horter Investment Management, LLC a Registered Investment Adviser: Insurance and annuity products are sold separately through Moore’s Wealth Management. Securities transactions for Horter Investment Management clients are placed through Pershing Advisor Solutions, Trust Company of America, Jefferson National Monument Advisor, Fidelity, Security Benefit Life, ED&F Man Capital Markets, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by radical promoting and their editorial staff based on the original articles written by jeff cutter in the falmouth enterprise. This article has been rewritten for Scott Moore and the readers of the Moore’s Weekly Column. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security

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The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

Obituaries Diane Rackstraw Carithers

Died March 27, 2015 Diane Irene Rackstraw Carithers, 67, of Gainesville, died Friday, March 27, 2015.

Born in Palm Beach County, Fla., she was a daughter of the late Gaynam Daunt Rackstraw and the late Joan Browning Rackstraw. She was a member of the Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville. She worked in the office for Rackstraw’s Auto Electric and Hospice of Southwest Florida, both in Clewiston, Fla. Survivors include her husband, Thomas A. Carithers; children, Ken (Fleur) Carithers of Jefferson, Sara (Jerry) Seymour of Virginia Beach, Va., Karen (Darrin) Davidson, of Lenoir, N.C., and Nancy (David) Goodloe of Cumming; brother, Gaynam R. Rackstraw, and sister, Rhonda Davis, both of Clewiston, Fla.; best friends, Cindy Shearer of Clewiston, Fla., and Linda Creech of Ohio; and grandchildren, Cole Carithers, Victoria Carithers, Lashawn McLucas, Nathan Davis, Darrin Clyde Davidson, Dalton Davidson, Keagan Davidson, Karina Davidson, Kaiden Davidson and Kenzie Davidson.

The graveside service was held Monday, March 30, 2015, in the Galilee Christian Church Cemetery with the Rev. Stuart Higginbotham officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Winn Dixie Hope Lodge, 1552 Shoup Court, Decatur, GA 30033, The Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214, Winship Cancer Institute - Office of Gift Records, Emory University, 1762 Clifton Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30322-1710 or the hospice of your choice.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, April 2, 2015

James Carlyle

Died March 28, 2015 James Carlyle, 80, of Winder, died Saturday, March 28, 2015.

A native of Barrow County, he was a son of the late Joe and Ruth Sorrells Carlyle.

He was a vice president of

FRIENDSHIP Continued from 1A

lands Parkway.

One reason given for the change was that the Lanier Islands name better reflects the geography of the area and helps direct visitors to points of interest on and around the lake.

But supporters said they believed the history of the Friendship community was being ignored in favor of commercial interests.

“These people have everything taken from them now ... their land ... now you want to take the name away from them,” said resident Ken Cochran, who narrowly lost to Commissioner Kathy Cooper last year for a seat on the board representing South Hall. “That’s just not right.”

State lawmakers joined the fray last year, approving a resolution dedicating Ga. 347 between I-985 and the Braselton town limits as Friendship Road.

The resolution also dedicated Ga. 347 from the western shores of Lake Lanier east to I-985 as Lanier Islands Parkway.

Supporters asked the board to acknowledge the wishes of state lawmakers.

“I believe that you will find admiration and respect for your actions if you have the courage to correct the mistakes of the past,” said resident Phyllis Mercer.

Brian Rochester, executive vice president of Gainesville-based Rochester & Associates, a firm that provides land surveying, civil engineering and project management service, spoke on behalf of the resort and the economic benefit it brings the community.

the former Winder Lumber Company and was a United States Army veteran. He had resided in Barrow County for most of his life and was a member of Hebron Baptist Church.

Survivors are his wife, Gloria Carlyle; children, Jimmy Carlyle, Jackie Robinson and Jeff Carlyle, all of Winder; grandchildren, J T. Carlyle, III, Jessica DeHart and Jason DeHart; and greatgrandson, Cameron DeHart.

A funeral service was held Monday, March 30, 2015, in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home with the Rev. Tim Taffar officiating. Interment was in Barrow Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to The University Cancer Center www.universitycancer.com or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital www.stjude. org Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, April 2, 2015

Ernest Edwin Edwards

Died March 27, 2015 Ernest Edwin Edwards, born July 4, 1928, died Friday, March 27, 2015.

Survivors include his daughter, Deborah (Faron) Power of Lancaster, Calif.; son Dennis (Marie) Edwards of Acworth; granddaughters Jennifer Chase of Acworth and Kara Lauro of Arlington, Va.; grandsons, Justin (Karla) Lauro of Fayetteville, N.C., Dennis “DJ” (Kim) Edwards of Acworth David (Ashley) Edwards of Cedartown; grea- grandsons, Mason and Jacob Edwards of Acworth; brother Roy Edwards of Hoschton; sisters Katherine (Bud) Knox of Duluth Evelyn Maudlin of Gainesville, Texas; brotherin-law, Jones Allen “Pete” (Charlotte) Garmon of Jefferson; sister-in-law Beverly (Jerry) Scott of Commerce; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jean Edwards; parents, Henry and Toughey Edwards; and a brother, James Edwards.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 31, 2015, at Hudson River Baptist Church in Commerce.

The body was cremated af-

“These are tough times and tough decisions you’ve got to make,” he told the board. “The reality, though, is many decades ago Friendship Road began to change.”

With the widening of Ga. 347 into a four- and six-lane highway, the road is now more commercial than residential, Rochester said.

“If people think it’s going to stay the same and not change, I think that is not a good perception,” he added, urging the board to side with the resort and its investment in Hall County.

Cooper, who helped bring the issue back up for a vote, said the Friendship community remains strong despite the changes.

“I’m the farmer that stayed,” she said, addressing Friendship Road supporters.

“I really do understand ...

ter the service.

Ivie Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, April 2, 2015

Hank Ewing

Died March 30, 2015 Henry B. “Hank” Ewing, 88, of Gainesville, died Monday March 30, 2015, at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Born in Commerce, he lived in Hall County for a number of years. He was the son of the late James Charlie and Una Gertrude Goss Ewing. He was retired from Atlanta Linen Service and also retired from the Hall County School System where he works as a custodian at North Hall Middle School. He served in the United States Navy during World War II and was a member of Lakewood Baptist Church. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Juanita Lawson Ewing.

Survivors include his daughters and son-in-law, Barbara Ross of Athens and Betty Lawson Gurganus and Harry Gurganus and Anita Kay Lawson, all of Gainesville; sons and daughters-inlaw, Henry and Lisa Lawson of Gainesville and Steve and Susan Ewing of Hampton; 10 grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren; number of nieces and nephews; and sisters, Betty Collins and Alice McGriff, both of Atlanta.

Funeral services were held Wednesday April 1, 2015, at Lakewood Baptist Church with Dr. Tom Smiley, Dr. Jerry Gill and the Rev. Don Ormsbee officiating. Interment followed in Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lakewood Baptist Church Building Fund, 2235 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30501.

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, Gainesville The Paper, April 2, 2015

Justin Gee

Died March 25, 2015 Justin Theodore Gee, 26, of Commerce, died Wednesday, March 25, 2015.

Born in Commerce, he was a son of Wiley Theodore “Teddy” Gee and Santina

and I just hope that there can be some kind of preservation there for you.”

Powell said he had been swamped with emails in the last few days as the issue reached a boiling point, though he did not change his vote.

“I got every one of your emails and read every one,” he said. “Some of them were even threatening. I’ve been threatened in person with how I vote.

“I’ve taken to heart everything y’all have said,” Stowe told supporters. “I’ve been torn with which way to go on this.”

“My statement is I have and always will make what I think is the best vote for the entire county,” Powell said.

Ultimately, Stowe reversed course and sided with Friendship Road.

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“Tina” Martin Gee of Jefferson. A certified firefighter and First Responder, he was a First Lieutenant with the Harrisburg Fire Department. He was also a chemical operator with the Johnson & Johnson Company. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Evelyn Gee and Jack and Velma Martin.

Survivors, in addition to his parents, include his wife, Gera Ann Fordham Gee; daughters, Zoey Leeann Gee and Alexis Renee Gee, both of Commerce; brother, Jeremy Shane Gee of Jefferson; grandfather, Horace Gee of Gainesville; father-in-law, Irwin Fordham and his wife, Pamela Fordham of Jefferson; and mother in law, Quinn McCoy of Winder.

The funeral service was held Saturday, March 28, 2015, at Oconee Baptist Church with the Rev. Jason Buchanan, the Rev. Swayne Cochran and the Rev. Eric Shelton officiating. Burial follow in the Evans Memory Gardens with firefighters, rescue and public safety members serving as honorary pallbearers. Memorials may be made to The Marfan Foundation, 22 Manhasset Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, April 2, 2015

Ben Preston Gordon

Died March 24, 2015 Ben Preston Gordon, 79, of Maysville, died Tuesday, March 24, 2015, at St. Mary’s

Hospital.

Born in Commerce, he was a son of the late Willie F. and Vassie Lewallen Gordon.

He was a member of Ridgeway Baptist Church and was retired from Banks County Board of Education.

Survivors include his wife, Jean Nash Gordon; daughters, Stacy Krumnow (Randy) of Homer and Regina Snyder (David) of Maysville; sons, Chris Gordon and Jason Gordon (Tammy), all of Maysville; brothers, Winfred Gordon of Carnesville and Eugene Gordon (Gloria) of Powder Springs; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday, March 28, 2015, in the chapel of LittleWard Funeral Home with the Rev. Jim McLendon and the Rev. Bill Manus officiating. Interment followed in Banks Memorial Gardens.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, April 2, 2015

Jane Bradshaw Higgins

Died March 28, 2015 Jane Bradshaw Higgins, 66, of Monroe, died Saturday, March 28, 2015, after an extended illness.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 31, 2015, in Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Hillman Martin officiating.

Interment followed at Hamilton Mill Memorial Gardens.

Born in Monroe, she was a lifelong resident of the area.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Higgins; parents, Willie and Es-

3A

mer Bradshaw; sisters, Shirley Smith, Willie Lou Martin and Mary “Elise” Rowe; brothers, Dupree Bradshaw, Albert Bradshaw and Aubrey Lee Bradshaw.

Survivors include her daughter, Ronda Peavy of Monroe; granddaughter, Lindsey Peavy of Monroe; daughters, Anne Crouch of Bethlehem and Tammy Cable of Winder; brother, Rufus Bradshaw of Bethlehem; sister, Ellen Scroggs of Old Hickory, Tenn.; and sistersin-law, Brenda Greeson and Barbara O’Rouke, both of Buford.

Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel, Buford The Paper, April 2, 2015

Arylene Jarrard

Died March 28, 2015 Mrs. Arylene Jarrard, 79, of Braselton, died Saturday, March 28, 2015, at her residence.

Funeral services were held Monday, March 30, 2015, at Memorial Park South Funeral Home with interment following in Memorial Park South Cemetery.

The Rev. Corey Sexton officiated.

Born in Rome on March 3, 1936, she was a daughter of the late Clarence Dunagan and Lois Peace. She was a member of Walnut Fork Baptist Church and was retired from Barrow Manufacturing where she worked as a seamstress. She was a godly lady who loved life, her husband of 64 years with all her heart and the years she had with him.

See OBITUARIES, 7A

4A

local

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

BRASELTON HOSPITAL SUPPORTERS

Signature gifts celebrated at sneak preview reception

By JEFF GILL

Regional staff

Smoked salmon was in the emergency department and apple cake squares were in the surgery waiting area at Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton.

The hospital, which opens its doors to patients Wednesday, was a showpiece Thursday night as invited guests in tuxedos and evening gowns toured the 100-bed facility off Ga. 347 in South Hall County.

Food, drinks and a program recognizing key donors highlighted the event, a grand opening preview sponsored by the Medical Center Foundation.

“I want all of us to remember this moment, this historic event, a legacy in the life of this community,” said Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Gainesville-based Northeast Georgia Health System.

“It took a tremendous amount of community support to make all of this happen.”

She spoke to a large crowd seated and standing in Café 1400, the hospital’s eatery, which is part of an atrium that serves as a centerpiece for the hospital with its long

Erin O. Smith Regional staff

Georgia’s first lady Sandra Deal speaks March 26 during the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton grand opening preview and signature donor recognition program in Braselton. Gov. Nathan Deal was supposed to be in attendance but was unable to make the event due to delayed flights. staircase and entrance to an outdoor plaza.

A crowd filled the room and a balcony overhead during the program.

“We hope this community will be as proud of this state-of-the-art hospital as we

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Tony Funari, chairman of The Hospital Foundation’s Braselton Cabinet, makes the presentation to Braselton Rotary Club president Howard Hardaway, with Nancy Colston, President and Chief Development Officer of The Medical Center Foundation. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

are,” Burrell said. “It stands as a testament of what can be done when we all work together.”

Gov. Nathan Deal couldn’t attend the event as planned, held up in Washington, D.C., but first lady Sandra Deal stood in his place giving remarks.

“This (hospital) is near and dear to his heart, and he was looking forward to being here,” she said of her husband.

“Congratulations, and thank you to all of you who have worked so very, very hard to make this a reality,” the first lady said. “I think that for all of you who live in this area, (the hospital) is a great concern, a need for you all.

“A close hospital really makes a difference.”

She also praised the building’s appearance, saying, “I haven’t seen all of the building, but what little I’ve seen, it’s really beautiful.”

Anthony Williamson, the hospital’s first president, talked about the hospital’s “quest for excellence ... in creating exceptional patient care experiences through continuous improvement.

“On behalf of over 800 team members who are making (the hospital) their new professional home, we commit to achieving that vision.”

Officials also recognized donors who have given a major gift to the hospital, establishing the Henry Edward Braselton Chapel, Braselton Rotary Flag Plaza, Auxiliary Love Light Garden, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design display, two family consultation rooms and a treatment room in the emergency department.

Also, Don and Nancy Panoz “gave a generous signature gift to make possible a future naming opportunity that has yet to be identified,” according to the hospital.

Before the ceremony, Stephanie Williams, youngest daughter of Henry Brasel-

LeAnne Akin The Paper

The Braselton family is recognized during the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton grand opening preview and signature donor recognition program. Below: During the invitation-only event, the family paused for a photograph in the Henry E. Braselton Chapel.

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Tony Funari and Nancy Colston recognized the future naming opportunity coming with the signature gift of Nancy Panoz and husband Don who was in Mexico on business.

ton, said, “We are absolutely blessed tremendously (by) ... all the people who worked so hard to bring this (hospital) to South Hall County and the town of Braselton.

“We are just pleased and humbled beyond belief that

we have this facility here in this area. It is going to serve future generations ... and we’re just happy to be a part of it.”

The hospital opened its doors to the public last Sunday for tours and up-close

looks of various areas, such as patient and operating rooms, the imaging suite and cafe.

The event, which had a heavy turnout, was childfriendly, with opportunities for youngsters to explore emergency vehicles, including a helicopter. The children were also invited to color get-welcomed card for the hospital’s first guests who were welcomed on April 1.

The Braselton Rotary Club

Welcomes

to the community with its signature gift - The Braselton Rotary Flag Plaza

ROTARY CLUB OF BRASELTON SERVICE ABOVE SELF

We are neighbors, community leaders, and global citizens uniting for the common good.

With you, we can accomplish even more.

THE HEART OF ROTARY IS OUR CLUB’S DEDICATED PEOPLE who share a passion for both community service and friendship.

Meetings every Thursday 7:30 am at Chateau Elan-LEGENDS CLUB HOUSE 5473 Legends Drive, Braselton, GA 30517

Contact: Howard Hardaway, President

770-354-7553

HEALTH

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

5A

Community open house at hospital draws crowd

By JEFF GILL

Regional staff

You can’t underestimate the impact it will have. For us, as service providers, we have to be diligent to make sure we manage it appropriately for the community … so we continue to have the same great place to live, work and play.

Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton was making an economic impression on its surrounding area, even before it opened yesterday.

A mixed-use development, including four medical office buildings, is starting to take shape at nearby Ga. 347 and Ga. 211. Two unnamed tenants already have commitBill Orr ted to medical space.

“There’s definitely more Mayor of Braselton interest now in the area from groups locally as well as in roll — and all those things Atlanta and the surround- are good, but it trickles down ing markets,” said Karen into what the hospital (is Baston, medical specialist spending money on),” said with real estate firm Sperry Tim Evans, the chamber’s Van Ness/Hokayem Co. in vice president of economic Gainesville. “Everyone is development.

“All those (people) visitlooking to this site.”

The 100-bed hospital, ing somebody at the hospital which has been in the mak- are going out to eat and buying for some 15 years, is ing flowers in the neighborexpected to have a huge hood,” he said. “There’s a economic impact on South draw the hospital creates Hall, particularly in an area … and it has an economic around Braselton and at the impact.

“It kind of goes on and on edges of Gwinnett and Barin retail activity. The dollars row counties.

But there’ll be other conse- turn over and over again.”

The average wage for quences, such as the need for hospital workers tends to be more infrastructure, includbetween $70,000 and $80,000, ing roads.

“New economic activity Evans said, adding that those typically adds to property are people dropping money and sales tax collections, as on services and goods in the well as the other revenue area.

And the hospital is a bigstreams that accrue to the county,” states a January time employer.

As of March 22, 780 posi2012 study of the hospital’s economic impact on the area tions have been filled at the

by Enterprise Innovation In- new hospital, said Melissa Tymchuk, spokeswoman for stitute in Atlanta.

“However, as new house- the Gainesville-based Northholds are created due to the east Georgia Health System.

And officials are still “acnew jobs, the county has to increase its expenditures tively recruiting” for 111 poon services to meet the in- sitions, she said, adding that those interested can check creased demand.”

The net revenue impact on out openings at nghs.com/ the Hall County government careers.

“Not only will you have and school system over 20 years could be nearly $19 medical facilities (in the million, according to the area), but also retail busistudy, which was performed nesses that follow along right for the Greater Hall Cham- around them — pharmacies, restaurants, you name it,” ber of Commerce.

“The tendency is to look at Evans said.

The new medical office the direct economic impact building referred to by — the revenue and the pay- 1 3/30/15 11:51 NEGA Medical Center ad_Layout AM Page 2

Baston is part of a larger development, Creekside Village, which has three other medical buildings, a pharmacy and three retail sites planned.

“Retail is kind of sitting back right now, I’ve been told, waiting for more rooftops and more activity in the area,” especially at Ga. 347 and Ga. 211, Baston said.

Retail has boomed at Ga. 347 and Spout Springs Road in Braselton, a few miles from the hospital and still in South Hall.

Also affecting growth along the corridor is completion of the Ga. 347 widening between Interstate 985 and Ga. 211. The road is finished between Ga. 211 and Spout Springs, and the Georgia Department of Transportation expects the rest of the widening to finish in January.

“That’s a rapidly growing area for Hall and Gwinnett counties,” said Richard Mecum, chairman of the Hall County Board of Commissioners. “Mainly what you’re seeing right now is residential (growth).”

He cited Village at Deaton Creek, a retirement community off Ga. 347, next to the hospital campus.

Area residents “really do appreciate having the hospital and that type of resource available to them, certainly the retired folks living next door,” Mecum said. “It’s a great help for that whole area in there.”

Braselton Mayor Bill Orr

Scott Rogers Regional staff

Visitors line up outside the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton on Sunday afternoon to take a tour of the hospital. Thousands strolled the halls during the self-guided tour lasting until 5 p.m. Below: Hall County Fire Services’ Lt. Johnathan Mullinax shows off a fire engine during the Sunday open house at the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton which began admitting patients on April 1. See more at ClickThePaper.com

said, “You can’t underestimate the impact it will have.

For us, as service providers, we have to be concerned about water, sewer and policing.”

But growth is nothing new to Braselton, judging by the development at Spout Springs/Ga. 347.

“We have to be diligent to make sure we manage it appropriately for the community … so we continue to have the same great place to live, work and play,” Orr said. “That almost sounds trite, but that’s what we really want.”

Tommy Hunter, who grew up in the area and now serves on the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners,

said he expects the new hospital to get busy quickly.

“There’s a lot of people who live just a stone’s throw from that place,” said Hunter, who lives off Spout Springs Road, just a few miles from the hospital. “I’m sure it’ll be a lot more convenient than having to drive to Gainesville or (Gwinnett Medical Center in) Lawrenceville.”

But still, there’s traffic trouble, he added. “Of course, Ga. 347 dead-ends into a two-lane road, for some insane reason,” he said.

Most area officials point to the need to widen Ga. 211, which connects Ga. 53/ Winder Highway in Chestnut Mountain to Interstate 85.

The DOT “would like to widen Ga. 211 but doesn’t have funds for it,” said Teri Pope, district spokeswoman.

Area road planners set road priorities, and Ga. 211 improvements aren’t in short-range plans, she added.

The hospital’s opening also has had impacts during construction.

Rudy Lonergan, facilities development director, said that while the overall project has cost more than $100 million, construction contracts worth some $43 million have been issued in surrounding counties, with some $19 million of that in Hall County.

“We always want to keep things as local as possible,” he said.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

Northeast Georgia Medical Center We are proud to be your power partner at the Braselton campus

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jacksonemc.com

Jackson EMC’s Commercial & Industrial Marketing team pictured inside the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton.

(L to R) Brittany Caison, Todd Evans, David Lee, Joe Hicks, Jennifer Fennell and Lee Chapman.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

forum

6A

Natives, transplants leave marks I

married into a family that has generational roots in Gainesville.

They go back long before the War of Northern Aggression.

For 28 years, I have lived here. That’s longer than anywhere else in my life.

I lived in Forsyth County for a while, but had a Gainesville address. That counts for something.

Many families here have roots going back to when anything north of the river was Indian territory. Some folks can go back to the time when the city limits of Gainesville were basically within a one-mile radius of the square.

I have one friend who was baptized in the old First Baptist Church, where the former First National Bank building now stands. He and his wife were one of the first couples married in the current First Baptist on Green Street, which some folks considered to be way out of town.

But so many people have left their indelible mark on Gainesville, and came here either by choice or as a child.

Philip Wilheit, a wellknown civic leader, moved here when he was just 4 years old. Jim Walters, known for his philanthropy, moved here as an adult.

Poultry czar Abit Massey was originally from Athens, but has been a part of our community for more than half a century.

We have ministers whose community involvement stretches far beyond the walls of their respective churches. Tom Smiley is now in his 25th year at Lakewood Baptist Church.

He is readily identified with North Hall High School and other community endeavors.

Bill Coates has been here for more than a decade and a half. He, too, found his way into the very fabric of our community.

So has Terry Walton at

Harris Blackwood First United Methodist.

He asked me not to say he has been here 11 years.

For goodness sakes, please don’t tell the bishop. Keep it to yourself.

That’s just a sampling.

One person who left fingerprints of good work on our town was Nath Hayes, who died recently at the age of 81.

I came to know Nath when I was co-hosting the radio show with the legendary Bimbo Brewer, a true native.

At first, Nath could come off a bit gruff or curmudgeonly. But his was a heart of gold that loved kids. It was obvious because he and his wife, Joyce, had six of them.

Nath’s father, the Rev. Zach Hayes, was the pastor of First United Methodist in the 1950s. Nath’s obituary gives a glimpse of the nomadic life of a Methodist preacher’s family. He was born in Atlanta and graduated high school in Augusta.

By the time he finished college and service in the Army, his dad and family had moved to Gainesville.

He went into the insurance business and fell in love with Joyce when she asked him to help start a Sunday school class.

The life of a preacher’s son gave him a taste of several Georgia communities, but he chose this one. We are a better place because he did.

Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appear weekly.

Letters policy Send letters to editor@clickthepaper.com; fax, 706658-0177; or P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548.

Please include name, hometown and phone number.

Letters should be limited to 300 words on one topic and may be edited.

The First Amendment Congress shall make no law respecting establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

P.O. Box 430 Hoschton, GA 30548 9924 Davis St., Suite 8, Braselton, GA 30517 www.clickthepaper.com

Publisher Charlotte Atkins General Manager Norman Baggs Editor LeAnne Akin

More than an Easter basket, bunnies

Before Thanksgiving, as I “juned” around the kitchen — a mountain word Mama used to mean “fast moving” — preparing for company, it occurred to me that I should invite Jerry.

People often say, “I’ve been knowin’ him since I was born” making a sweeping statement. When I say it about Jerry, it is literally true. Jerry was born the day before I and, there in the hospital nursery, we began a course of friendship that has never ceased. He lives just a piece over the road from us.

Jerry is a farmer. A serious one. A family legacy.

He’s quiet, too, which leads me to believe that in the nursery, he probably never uttered a whimper while I probably never stopped making noise. Mama firmly maintained that I was a good baby and seldom fussed but I probably cooed constantly. I say this because Jerry grew to be a man of few words while I, in case you haven’t noticed, am a woman of many.

Anyway, I called Jerry and invited him. “Well,” he began, then paused. “There ain’t no kind of parade, is there? The kind y’all have at Easter? I don’t wanna be in no parade.”

“No,” I promised, laugh-

Celebrate the true meaning of Easter and the glory that abounds from that resurrection.

Ronda Rich ing. “That is only our Easter tradition.”

He was referring to our long-held practice of performing a parade of Easter smiles and clothes that we squeeze in between church and lunch. We video it and then, inevitably, cherish those Easters long ago when everyone we loved was still alive.

In all the years I have written this column, I have, unfailingly, dedicated my Easter column to the frills, fluff and fun of the holiday. I’ve talked of pretty bonnets, food a’plenty and once I told the story of Dixie Dew who jumped on, belly flat, the fresh-baked cake that I had situated in the back floorboard, before hurrying back in the house to retrieve my purse. I was so upset.

“If you weren’t already dressed for the Easter parade, I’d leave you home,” I had scolded.

Today, though, I write of

the true meaning of Easter.

A family member recently died. She toiled hard for a few weeks, trying to make it to the end of life. It was not an easy home-going. She had always been a woman of remarkable, outspoken faith. She was an optimist, staunchly confident that her faith would deliver the impossible in the midst of the most improbable.

But faith is not magic.

Any God-fearing person who has ever been in the trenches of trials and tribulations will tell you that. We will tell you that prayer will most certainly comfort and make a way but it is seldom a Doug Flutie Hail Mary football pass that delivers a last-minute miraculous win. Prayer works but the Lord makes His own schedule and His own way. For the angels who die young, I have decided it is God’s reward to them, not His punishment to us.

As she crawled toward death, inch by inch, day by day, her lifetime of solid faith did not desert her. Not for a moment. She questioned not her destination

or God’s timing. By her bedside, I sat for many hours in those closing weeks of her life’s drama. She spoke sweetly, smilingly of her Jesus and where she was going. Her peace was admirable.

Once, as she drifted off to morphine-induced sleep, whispering the name of Jesus, it reminded me how living with faith is important but dying with it is crucial.

Her faith was undergirded by eternal, heavenly salvation wrought by the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Calvary and His resurrection three days later.

So, this year I celebrate the true meaning of Easter and the glory that abounds from that resurrection.

Isn’t that much prettier than a basket of colored eggs and candy or a gorgeous Easter hat? And, definitely, more meaningful.

Ronda Rich is the best-selling author of several books.

Sign up for her newsletter at www.rondarich.com. Her column appears weekly.

GEORGIA LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Governor Deal directs agencies to prepare for H.B. 1 provisions Action last week on two pieces of legislation that originated in the Georgia House of Representatives should improve the lives of thousands of Georgians.

The Senate on March 25 passed House Bill 91, which I co-sponsored, and Gov. Nathan Deal signed it into law Monday, March 30.

Now, previous high school students prevented from graduating solely because they couldn’t pass the Georgia High School Graduation Test will be able to petition their local school systems for diplomas.

The State Board of Education eliminated that test requirement in 2011 but did not apply the change to previous students. With the Governor’s signature, the change now is in effect.

State School Superintendent Richard Woods applauded it in a public statement Monday.

“Those who completed all of the requirements for graduation except for passing one test on one given day now have the opportunity to go on to some form of postsecondary education, where they can obtain skills needed to have a great quality of life and be contributors to our society,” he said.

The Senate last week also approved House Bill 1, which decriminalizes the

Rep. Terry England possession of medical cannabis oil by sick Georgians who obtain it in other states.

The bill applies to people with the specific diagnoses of cancer, multiple sclerosis, seizure disorders, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, mitochondrial disease and sickle cell disease. The Governor has directed state agencies to prepare for implementation when he signs the bill, which should be soon. This legislative action should provide great comfort to patients and their families.

The House last week also passed, by a 2:1 margin, Senate Bill 133 and a Senate Resolution 287 that together would pave the way for voters to decide whether to implement one of the Governor’s major education initiatives — amending the state constitution to allow the state to take over chronically failing schools for up to 10 years. The referendum will be in Novem-

ber 2016.

The House also approved Senate Bill 2, which will allow local school boards to award high school diplomas to students who complete the 9th and 10th grades and in the final two years of what would have been high school instead successfully obtain at qualified postsecondary schools their associate degrees, or technical college diplomas, or at least two technical college certificates in a single career pathway. The legislation should enable motivated students to move more quickly into postsecondary programs to obtain workforce skills.

Two other Senate bills passed by the House last week were SB 72 and SB 134, both of which are in the area of public safety.

Once the Governor signs SB 72, harming law enforcement animals will be classified as “a high and aggravated misdemeanor” with fines ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 and prison terms of 12 months to five years.

Offenders also will have to cover the costs of veterinary treatment or even the full cost of replacing the animal and handler training.

The other bill approved by the House was SB 134, which closes a loophole in Georgia’s anti-speed trap

law. Currently, only drivers charged with speeding up to 17 mph over the limit may fight tickets they receive in speed traps set up by an agency that derives more than 40 percent of its budget from speeding fines. The new legislation will allow someone charged with exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 mph to challenge a ticket in a speed zone. While speeding is a dangerous offense, the General Assembly feels law enforcement agencies should not create speed traps in order to drive up revenue. [Jefferson Police Chief Joe Wirthman was asked to address legislators on this matter.]

The 2015 session ends this Thursday. Feel free to contact me with your concerns or questions at 404-463-2245 or at englandhomeport2@ windstream.net.

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent Barrow County. May God bless you and your family and our great State.

State Rep. Terry England represents District 116, which includes most of Barrow County. He chairs the House Appropriations Committee. His address is 245 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334.

local

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

OBITUARIES Continued from 3A

Survivors include husband, Curtis Jarrard of Braselton; son and daughter- in-law, Jimmy and Sara Jarrard of Braselton; daughter and son-in-law, Elaine and Steve Dodson of Flowery Branch; grandchildren, Jason Jarrard, Joey Jarrard, Michael Dodson and Amy Dodson Smith; nine greatgrandchildren; brother, Julian Dunagan of Braselton; sister, Carolyn Garrett of Pendergrass; and several nieces and nephews.

Thank you to all the Hospice workers and Jennifer Bennefield for all of the care and comfort they gave Granny.

Memorial Park South Funeral Home, Flowery Branch The Paper, April 2, 2015

George Edward Johnson Jr.

Died March 27, 2015 George Edward Johnson Jr., 65, died Friday, March 27, 2015.

Born May 24, 1949, in Newnan, he was a son of George E. Johnson Sr., and Helen Nadine Dye Johnson and the oldest of their two children. He attended elementary school through the third grade in Newnan and move to Albany, where he lived with his family until age 12. The family moved to Gainesville, where George completed his high school years. While in high school, he was employed by the U.S. Forestry Service in Hall County.

He attended Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) beginning in 1967 and graduated in 1972 having earned his degree as a Civil Engineer. George joined the work force as a Civil Engineer with the Federal Aviation Association. In 1975 George was employed

by RCA which took him to several other places to live such as the Bahamas, Hawaii and Colorado and returned to work at the FAA and retired in 2009. He was an active member of the Hamilton Mill Presbyterian Church. He was also a proud member of the Boy Scouts of America serving as an area commissioner. He earned his Eagle Scout Award early in his youth.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Dixon Johnson; daughters, Amanda M. Johnson, currently living in Angleton, Texas, Shanna S. du Mont, currently stationed with her husband, Justin du Mont who is serving in the United States Coast Guard in Chesterton, Ind., and Kimberly S. Reignier of Flowery Branch; granddaughters, Sydney Roach, Mackenzie Reignier, Corinne du Mont and Natalie du Mont; sister, Helen Johnson Elliott and her husband Danny Silas Elliott of Gainesville; aunt, Willene Johnson Williams of Newnan; uncle, Arthur “Buster” Dye of Columbia, S.C.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins living in Georgia, Texas, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Florida.

Services were held Tuesday, March 31, 2015, in the chapel of McKoon Funeral Home in Newnan with Dr. Tom Bagley officiating.

Memorials may be made to Hamilton Mill Presbyterian Church Building Fund, 5152 Braselton Hwy, Hoschton, GA 30548.

McKoon Funeral Home, Newnan The Paper, April 2, 2015

Mike Kesler

Died March 28, 2015 James Michael “Mike” Kesler, 60, of Nicholson, died Saturday, March 28, 2015, at Athens Regional Medical Center.

Born in Commerce, he was a son of Claudine McClure Kesler of Nicholson and the late James Mason Kesler.

He was self-employed with Diversified Lifts and Hydraulics.

Survivors, in addition to his mother, include his wife, Debra Crawford Kesler; daughters, Christy Lewis of Jefferson and Tonya Merrell of Commerce; sisters, Pat Gary of Nicholson and Betty Darnell and Lisa Grainger, both of Commerce; brothers, Doug Kesler and Ronnie Kesler, both of Nicholson, and Donnie Kesler of Commerce; and three grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Monday, March 30, 2015, in the chapel of LittleWard Funeral Home in Commerce with the Rev. Marty Smith officiating. Interment followed in Howington Cemetery.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, April 2, 2015

Frances JoAnn Jones

Died March 27, 2015 Mrs. Frances JoAnn Jones, 68, of Braselton, died Friday, March 27, 2015, at her residence, surrounded by family.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 29, 2015, in the chapel of Memorial Park South Funeral Home with interment following at Memorial Park South Cemetery. The Rev. Bill Compton officiated.

Born Sept. 11, 1946, in Atlanta, she was a daughter of the late Herman K. and Grace Poss. She was of the Baptist faith. She enjoyed yard sales, auctions, cooking and spending time with family and friends. A precious wife, mother and grandmother; she was known as Maw Maw to many in the community. She was also preceded in death by brothers, Kenny Poss, Bill Poss, Jimmy Poss and Joel Poss.

Survivors include her husband of 52-1/2 years, Davie Jones; sons and daughter-inlaws, Dave and Beth Jones of Gainesville and James and Jan Jones of Gainesville; daughters and sons-inlaw, Mary and Chris Atkinson of Flowery Branch and Heather and Thomas McMichael of Maysville; grandchildren, Bryan and Ashley Jones, Craig and Cassie Jones, Brandi and Dennis Cagle, Jamie Jones, Lacey Bartlett, Dylan Bartlett, Hunter Atkinson, Amber Atkinson, Jacob McMichael, Carlee McMichael, Sarah McMichael and Molly McMichael; great-grandchildren, Landon Cagle, Bryson Cagle, Bailey Jones, Aubrey Jones and Madison Jones; brother and sister-in-law, Jesse and Marjorie Poss of Stone Mountain; brother, Irvin Poss of Winder; sister, Shirley Poss of Braselton; sister-in-law, Marjorie Poss of Atlanta; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial Park South Funeral Home, Flowery Branch The Paper, April 2, 2015

Martha McKinzie McDougle

Died March 30, 2015 Martha McKinzie McDougle, age 72, of Auburn, died Monday, March 30, 2015, at her residence.

She was a daughter of the late “Jett” and Clara McKinzie and was also preceded in death by her husband, Jim McDougle in 1998. She was a retiree of Publix and was of the Baptist denomination.

She was also preceded by siblings, Francis McKinzie, Grady McKinzie and Mageline McKinzey.

Survivors include her sisters and brothers, Geneva Chastain of Danielsville, Ark., Sarah Delee, Jeanette Sanford, Evie Sanders, James McKinzie, Jessie McKinzie and Donnie McKinzie, all of Cumming, and Barbara McCracken and Ruby McDougle both of

Dawsonville.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2015, in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home with the Rev. Charles Spruill officiating. Entombment will follow in North Atlanta Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1.

Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, April 2, 2015

Pat Osborne

Died March 28, 2015 Richard “Pat” Patterson “Pat” Osborne, 75, of Winder, dieddat Agape Hospice following an extended illness.

Arrangements are to be announced at a later date

by Memorial Park South Funeral Home.

The Paper, April 2, 2015

Carol Yvonne Smith

Died March 29, 2015 Carol Yvonne Smith, 68, of Winder, died Sunday, March 29, 2015, at Athens Regional Medical Center.

Born Jan. 13, 1947, in Athens, she was a daughter of the late Clarence and Virginia Kitchens Hagwood.

She was also preceded in death by her brother, Wayne Hagwood; and sister, Gail Adcock. She was a member of New Life Church of Watkinsville. She worked for many years at the Hospital in Valentine, Neb., and was employed by Dr. Lockman’s office in Athens.

Survivors include her husband, Al Smith; sons, Ron Smith of Loganville and Frank Nash of Clarksville, Tenn.; daughters Karen Jenkins of Dawsonville, Lynn Wood of Dahlonega, Debbie Brown of Atlanta and Wanda Schroeder of Concord; nine grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren; brother, Rick Hagwood of Watkinsville; and sister, Kay Hobbs of Crawford.

Al Smith and family wish to thank all involved in her care at Athens Regional Hospital for the kind and loving care she received.

A funeral service was held Wednesday, April 1, 2015, in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home with Bishop Douglas Hammond and the Rev. Jason Hagwood officiating. Memorials may be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at www.lls.org Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, April 2, 2015

Emmaleen Sorrells

Died March 27, 2015 Emmaleen Sorrells, 95, of Winder, diedFriday, March 27, 2015.

She was a member of Midway Christian Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Curtis and Annie Hardy Miller; her husband, Clarence Sorrells; and sisters, Catherine Sorrells and Doris Everett.

Survivors include her son, Coy Sorrells of Winder; sister, Elizabeth Barber of Bethlehem; granddaughters, Brandi Hill of Longmont, Colo., and Kelli Anderson of DeRidder, La.; great-grandchildren, Kassi, Sammi, Jacqi and Alli Hill and Declan Anderson; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 31, 2015, at Midway Christian Church with the Rev. John Burchfield officiating. Interment followed in Chapel Christian Church Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Midway Christian Church.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, April 2, 2015

Angela Joyce Stroud

Died March 19, 2015 Angela Joyce Stroud, 66,

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died Thursday, March 19, 2015.

Born on May 22, 1948, in Chicago, Ill., she was a daughter of Lois Kidd Riley of Jefferson and the late Raymond Thrasher of Oconee County.

In Chicago, she earned a diploma at Saint Leo Elementary School in 1961 and graduated from Hyde Park High School. She earned a bachelor degree of education from the University of Georgia UGA in 1974, a master degree of education from Georgia State University in 1977 and a degree of Education Specialist from Lincoln Memorial University in 2000.

Angela moved to Georgia to be a family caregiver to her grandmother, Lula Borders Kidd in Jefferson, and to obtain her bachelor degree from UGA. At UGA, she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. While in Jefferson, she met Phillip Stroud of Statham and they married in September 1974 and resided in Decatur for 16 years. She taught gifted children of DeKalb County School System and also did grant work and development and curriculum and instruction for DeKalb County School staffers. She also led her students on various service learning trips abroad to Germany, Austria, England, France, Italy and Switzerland. She was honored with the National Science Teaching Award in 1995. She was a proud member of the National Education Association and the Georgia Association of Educators. She retired from the DeKalb County School System after 30 years of dedicated teaching in 2004. Upon retirement she continued to be a committed and devoted mother who provided continual counsel, support and unconditional love to her two children. She also was a devoted daughter, advocate and family caregiver to her mother Lois Kidd Riley.

Angela was also a vigilant neighbor and was active in the Hidden Lake Neighborhood Association where she resided for 40 years.

Survivors, in addition to her mother, include her daughter, Ashley Philicia Victoria Stroud of Decatur; son, Jason Damon Phillip Stroud (Morgan) of Severna Park, Md.; grandchildren,

Morgan Olivia, Jayme Elizabeth Ramona, Jasmine Rayne Angelique, Jason Damon Phillip Jr., Melody Jorja Grace and Malia Victoria Jacqueline Stroud; former husband, Phillip Ellis Arnold Stroud of Statham,; and a host of other relatives and friends.

The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2015, at St. Paul First Baptist Church in Jefferson. The visitation will be held at the church from noon to 1 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Paradise AME Cemetery in Jefferson.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, April 2, 2015

Betty Ann Whisler

Died March 27, 2015 Betty Ann Whisler, 75, of Hoschton, died Friday, March 27, 2015.

Survivors include her husband, Norman Whisler; son, Alan Lee Whisler and wife Laurie of Indiana.; daughters, Anita Jean Maynard and husband Scott of Suwanee and Cheryl Marie Krug and husband Coley of Buford; brothers, Lynwwod Denham and wife Joann, Lee Denham and wife Geri and Earl Denham and wife Teddie, all of Tifton, Neil Denham and wife Deloriann of Sylvester and Mike Denham and wife Carol of Americus; sisters, Sue Patton and Merle Barge, both of Tifton; grandchildren, Kyle Maynard, Amber Ehrhart, Hollie Whisler, Joshua Whisler, Lindsay Maynard, Tyler Krug, Austin Whisler, Adam Whisler, MacKenzie Maynard and Ashley Krug; great granddaughter, Kinleigh Ehrhart; and a host of other relatives.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 29, 2015, at Northeast Church in Braselton with Pastor Russell Harbin officiating. Memorial contributions may be made Northeast Church Journey.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, April 2, 2015

Jaxon Kullen White

Died March 29, 2015 Jaxon Kullen White, 3, of Jefferson, died Sunday, March 29, 2015.

Born in Athens, he was the

7A

son of Roger White Jr., and Wendy Brock of Jefferson.

Survivors, in addition to his parents, are his sisters, Riley Elizabeth White and Zoey Nichole White of Jefferson; grandparents, Roger White Sr., and Sharon White of Oakwood and Steve and Jackie Saylors of Royston; great-grandmother, Betty Heathman of Oakwood; aunts, Rachel White of Oakwood and Christal Barret of Royston.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2015, in the chapel of Evans Funeral Home with the Rev. Earl Pirkle officiating. Burial will follow in Evans Memory Gardens.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, April 2, 2015

Clarice Earline Woods

Died March 25, 2015 Clarice Earlline Woods, 75, of Hoschton, died Wednesday, March 25, 2015.

Clarice loved her family, enjoyed keeping up with things on Facebook, being on her computer, some travel and collected hand bells as a hobby. She was also a great cook.

Survivors include her sons, Jimmy Eugene Woods of Alabama and James Terry Woods and John Stevie Woods, both of Hoschton; daughters, Teresa Lynne Woods of Hoschton and Carole Woods Downey and husband Wayne of Bethlehem; brothers, James Larry Riggins of Alabama; 11 grandchildren; and nine grea- grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Edward Lee Woods, son Tommy Edward Woods; brothers Thomas L Riggins and Earl Riggins.

Funeral services were held Saturday, March 28, 2015, in the Lawson Funeral Home Chapel with Apostle Fred Musser officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at donate.heart.org or American Diabetes Associaton at www. diabetes.org/Donate.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, April 2, 2015

8A

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

The Church of Hoschton

invites you to join us for the following events: April 3rd

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE with Communion at 6 pm at 99 East Jefferson Street, Hoschton

April 4th

COMMUNITY WIDE EASTER EGG HUNT at 4 pm at 380 Sam Freeman Road, Hoschton.

Special Guest

The Easter Bunny

FREE Hotdogs with all the trimmings, hayrides and activities for kids.

FREE Ehgomges to a good

Everyone Is WELCOMED!

April 5th

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE

beginning at 7:30 am at 380 Sam Freeman Road, Hoschton

Breakfast will follow sunrise service Easter Cantata at 10:30 am at 99 East Jefferson Street, Hoschton THE CHURCH OF HOSCHTON AN INDEPENDENT BAPTIST ASSEMBLY Pastor E. Cory Sexton For More info:

706-654-8415 • www.thechurchofhoschton.com

CMYK

Sports Golf: Dragons win 1st county title

BY COLIN HUBBARD

sports@clickthepaper.com

COMMERCE – Headed into Wednesday’s Jackson County Championship, the Jefferson Dragons boys’ golf team had never won in its five year existence.

But, behind a round of 37 by Charlie Jarrett, the Dragons walked away champions for the first time in school history.

Not only did the Dragons win the title, Jarrett tied with East Jackson’s Jake Golob for first place overall to take home a share of the co-low medalist for the tournament.

Jarrett and Golob join York Delloyd and Colin Hubbard as the only low medalists in the championship’s history.

“I didn’t play very well today, but Jake and I kept our heads in the game and eventually posted a pretty good score,” Jarrett explained. “It is pretty cool to be named colow medalist, so I am very pleased with that.”

Rounding out the scores for Jefferson were Cooper Young, who shot the third-lowest score of the afternoon with a 39, while Cole Stanfill carded a 46 and Jonathan Williams added a 48,respectively.

“I am really proud of the way Charlie and Cooper played today,” Jefferson head coach Tom Parker stated. “To beat Jackson County is something to be proud of, because it doesn’t happen very often.”

Finishing in second place with a score of 172 were the East Jackson Eagles, while Jackson County finished third and the Commerce Tigers finished in fourth.

The Eagles’ 172 was good enough for the 9-hole school record.

Logan Ivester carded a 43 for the Eagles, good enough to finish fourth place overall.

“I am super proud of our guys,” East Jackson head coach Matthew Gibbs said. “I couldn’t be happier for Jake. He works so hard on his game. He is really dedicated to his craft and it shows.”

When asked how it felt to shoot the school record on a big stage, Gibbs answered with one word, “ecstatic.”

“We just come out here and always try to play our best,” Golob stated. “I tied my record today, so I think I played pretty good under the rainy conditions we had.

“This means a lot for our team and for our school to shoot our best score ever as a team. It was a great day for us.”

The same couldn’t be said for the Jackson County Panthers who finished in third place with a team score of 181, their worst of the season.

Standout golfer for the Panthers, Anthony Whobrey, recorded his worst-career score with a round of 49, while Ian Mcgaughey and Grant Richardson both shot rounds of 44.

The Panthers had won the previous five county championships.

“I don’t think we had our mental game with us today, “Jackson County head coach Warren Standridge stated.

“We weren’t as focused as we should have been and I take the blame for that.

“We have played two tournaments in the last four days, so we just weren’t as prepared as we usually are. Jefferson and East Jackson played really well today. The credit goes to them. They deserve that and we will have to accept the fact that we didn’t play our best and prepare to go to work.”

Mill Creek Golf The boys won the Grizzly Classic last Saturday. Alex Markham shot 75. Seth McAfee and Luka Karaulic both recorded 77, while Phillip Beard and Peter Chung recorded a pair of 78s.

The boys’ squad also won matches against Collins Hill, Duluth and Norcross.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

B

The Comeback Lady Hawks

Colin Hubbard The Paper

Left: Mill Creek’s Meredith Roper last Saturday at the Gwinnett County Invitational in Buford. Right: Mill Creek’s Ashley Allen goes against a Roswell defender during last Saturday’s second-round game at the Gwinnett County Invitational.

Roper’s late goal propels the Mill Creek Lady Hawks past Starrs Mill to win White Bracket of Gwinnett County Invitational

BY KYLE FUNDERBURK AND COLIN HUBBARD

sports@clickthepaper.com

BUFORD – After holding off a late charge by Roswell High School in the second round in the White Bracket of the Gwinnett County Invitational last Saturday, the Mill Creek Lady Hawks had a showdown with Starrs Mill High School in the championship game.

Let the craziness ensue.

Down three goals with 13:04 remaining in the goals, Mill Creek’s Meredith Roper scored the game-winning goal with 31 seconds to give the Lady Hawks a 12-11 victory and the White Bracket Gwinnett County Invitational title.

“It was good day for us,” Mill Creek head coach Brian Williamson said.

“The girls really stepped up at the end of the game.

“Their (Starrs Mill) goalie played a fantastic game. We took almost 30 shots on goal and scored only 12 times, so give credit to them. I’m super proud of the girls and what we accomplished today.”

The Lady Hawks started the game off with a bang, scoring two quick goals

off the sticks off Meredith Matthews and Amya Hudson to go up 2-0. Hudson finished the tournament with 13 goals.

But, after a strong finish to the first half, the Panthers managed to tie the game at four goals apiece to go into halftime deadlocked, 4-4.

Midway through the second half, the Lady Hawks found trailed by three goals (7-4) with 13:04 remaining in the game.

But, the Lady Hawks weren’t going down without a fight.

Over the next seven minutes, the Lady Hawks cut the lead to one goal on four separate occasions. They tied the game at 10-10 off the stick of Roper with 2:23 seconds remaining.

With the game still deadlocked, Matthews gave the Lady Hawks a go-ahead goal with 1:43 left in the game. It was their first lead since going up 3-2 in the first half.

But, on the ensuing possession, the Panthers connected for a goal with 58 seconds remaining to tie the game at 11-11.

With the game on the line, Roper charged at the goal and connected with 31 seconds remaining to give the Lady

Jefferson-Jackson County tennis scenes

BY KYLE FUNDERBURK

HOSCHTON – A solo home run was the highlight, but it was the errors and a lack of extra hits that was Mill Creek Hawks’ downfall last week against Collins Hill High School.

The Eagles took advantage of two errors in the third and fifth innings to beat the Hawks 5-1.

The errors allowed two of the Eagles’ five runs. The other three came off base hits.took away fro what was an otherwise good pitching performance by Ryan Dobbs. He struck out five batters and only three of the batters who got hits off of him scored on base hits as the other two came from errors.

“They hit that solo homer for what I see as the only earned run,” Mill Creek head coach Doug Jones said. “When you don’t make plays to give up runs, that’s what happens.”

Despite the struggle in the field, Mill Creek pitcher Ryan Dobbs struck out five batters.

“We had two good pitching performances,” Jones said. “I thought Ryan did well. Beau came in and got us out of a jam.

“I have to give their kid credit, too. He kept the ball away from us and we had a

poor approach to swinging the bat.”

Dobbs was put behind the eight ball early when William Holland connected for the solo home run in the top of the first inning to put the Eagles ahead 1-0.

Holland’s big day continued when shortstop Beau Brundage made a bad throw to first base, allowing Holland to advance to second on an error. A sacrifice hit

by Cole Zabowski allowed Riley King to score on the next at-bat. Then, a sacrifice fly by Al Del Villar sent Holland across the plate to extend the lead to 3-0.

A Russell Klein double in the bottom of the fourth inning drove in Brundage from second to get Mill Creek on the board (3-1).

However, their momentum didn’t last as first basemen Cameron Turley dropped a throw from Brundage on a hit by Mark Flores. A hit and a walk on the ensuing at-bats loaded the bases and allowed Turley to score on a double play. Villar brought the score to 5-1 when his hit to center field brought King home.

Mill Creek showed some life in the bottom of the seventh with a lead-off double

by Jay Pendley and a walk

by Jake Stevens, but that was all the Hawks could manage.

Lady Hawks 12, Lady Hornets 9 (second round) Before they could play in the championship game, the Lady Hawks had to take care of business in the first and second rounds. In round two, the Lady Hawks dispatched the Lady Hornets.

The Lady Hawks jumped up on the Lady Hornets and led 7-3 at the break behind three goals from Maddie Peek and two from Hudson.

Midway through the second half and the lead at 9-5, Dallas Thomas hit the back of the net on a pass from Matthews, giving the Lady Hawks a five-point lead (10-5) with just over 10 minutes remaining in the game.

After a late charge from the Lady Hornets, Thomas connected for her second goal with 4:59 remaining in the game to give the Lady Hawks’ a threepoint lead (12-9).

The Lady Hawks’ defense didn’t allow a single goal in the last seven minutes of play to secure the three-point victory.

See lacrosse, 2B

Eagles slip by Panthers; Lady Panthers cruise to win

BY KYLE FUNDERBURK

sports@clickthepaper.com

Baseball: Eagles upend Hawks, 5-1 sports@clickthepaper.com

Hawks the win.

Doug Chellew The Paper

Top: Jackson County’s Hannah Rodriguez returns a backhand shot during last week’s match against Jefferson High School. Bottom: Jefferson’s Olivia Yates returns a forehand shot during last week’s match against Jackson County. The Jefferson boys won 5-0. The Lady Dragons won 3-2.

JEFFERSON – In a meet that lasted almost four hours, the East Jackson Eagles boys’ tennis team slipped past Jackson County Panthers for the win Tuesday night.

The Eagles defeated the Panthers 3-2 with the final match being decided in the third set.

“Up one set, lose the next set, back and forth with a lot of deuce games, it was a good competition,” East Jackson coach Jonathan Harris said.

East Jackson’s Kaleb Sosebee began by defeating Trey Evans in straight sets (6-1, 6-1). Jackson County’s Hayden Dutton tied the meet by sweeping Austin Maxwell (6-2, 6-3). Zach Lounder made quick work of Brendan Mitchell (6-0, 6-0) to put the Eagles back ahead in the final singles’ match.

“Kaleb has been playing good most of the year.

That now puts him at 4-2 in the region, so he’s been really productive,” Harris explained. “We’ve just had to have other people step up and Zach did that today.”

The doubles team of Walt Palmer and Austin Lewis evened the score for the Panthers with a close victory over Mac Moore and Colton Puckett (6-6 (9-7), 3-6, 7-5).

The match came down to one final doubles’ match, which lasted three sets.

In the end, East Jackson’s Jordan Maddox and Noah Baker defeated Ben Newmas and DJ LeVac III (6-4,

5-7, 6-1).

Lady Panthers 4, Lady Eagles 1 The Lady Panthers overwhelmed the Lady Eagles,dropping only two sets.

“Good match,” Jackson County Lady Panthers head coach Andy Gentry said.

“The girls played well, especially coming off of a rough night at Elbert (County) last night. They were tired, but they played very well today, so I’m proud of them.”

Hannah Rodriguez overpowered Melissa Skinner (6-1, 6-0). Casey Ellis played just as well against Sydney Mathis (6-0, 6-1). Ellis was moved to the No. 2 spot after Kelsie Gassner suffered an injury.

Madison Rodriguez and Aspen Reeves blanked Lila Daniel and Ivy Wheeler (6-0, 6-0). Ashley Konarski and Melissa Clark cruised past Whitley Brooks and Charlyn Shue.

Bailey Brooks was the lone Lady Eagle to pick up a win with her two-plus-hour match with Sophia Elegreet (7-5, 6-3). Elegreet was getting her first taste of region play.

“Being her (Elegreet’s) first year, I’m very proud of what she did today. She showed some stamina and some improvement,” Gentry said.

“We lost our No. 2 in Gassner, so instead of breaking up our doubles, which are good teams, we decided to put her in at no. 3 and take our lumps. But, she has proven to us that she can hang with any girl.”

LOCAL soccer

local golf

local sports

Soccer Totz registration open

Spring Break golf camp at Reunion

Sports action this weekend

Jackson County Parks & Recreation Soccer Totz registration is open. Registration is $75 and is open until this Friday (April 3). The co-ed program is for kids ages 2-3. A parent must attend and participate in the training sessions.

The program meets for six Saturdays beginning April 4 at Lamar Murphy Park. For more information, call 706-3676350 and visit www.jacksonrec.com.

Reunion Country Club’s Spring Break golf camp is for boys and girls ages 6-15. Cost: $175 for residents/members of Reunion; $200 non-residents/non-members. The camp runs from Monday, April 5-9, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Instruction includes: full swing, short game, putting and chipping with level one progression program furnished by U.S. Kids Golf. For more information, call 770967-8300, or visit www.reuniongolfclub.com.

Track: Mill Creek hosts the JV Invitational today at 4 p.m.

Jackson County competes in the Battle at The Branch at Flowery Branch High School on Friday at 3 p.m. East Jackson competes in the Oconee County Invitational on Friday at 4 p.m.

Soccer: Mill Creek plays at Collins Hill High School today, starting with the girls’ game at 5:30 p.m.; boys play at 7:30.

Jackson County plays at North Oconee High School today . Girls start at 5:30 p.m.; boys play at 7:30.

2B

sports

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

LACROSSE

Continued from 1B Lady Hawks 20, Lady Eagles 3 (Tennessee) (first round) The Lady Hawks started their run off with a bang and devoured Seymour High School.

The Lady Hawks wasted little time getting on the scoreboard. Amanda Kozlowski scored just under two minutes into the contest to set the pace.

Barely a minute later, Maddie Beck found the back of the net to extend the lead. Beck added another goal soon after to give the Lady Hawks an early 3-0 lead.

Ashley Allen and Lexi Allen scored just 44 seconds apart a few minutes later to add to the margin (5-0).

Beck scored her third goal of the contest with a little over 10 minutes to go, followed

by Peek two minutes later. Matthews and Hudson kept the rhythm by scoring within two minutes of the preceding goal to drive Mill Creek to a 9-0 first-half lead.

Hudson and Rachel Gann closed the first half by scoring just 10 seconds apart from one another to give the Lady Hawks an 11-0 advantage at halftime.

The Lady Hawks not only scored often, but they kept Seymour from having much time at all with the ball.

Seymour’s Hannah Manis kept the game from being a shutout as she scored a few seconds into the second half.

After five scoreless minutes, the Lady Hawks returned to their first-half form by scoring six straight goals over a 10-minute period.

Matthews started the run, followed by Lara Russell, Hudson, Beck, Ashley Allen and Hudson, again, to stretch the lead out to 17-1.

Manis added a second goal for Seymour with seven minutes left to play, but Gann added to the beating with her second goal.

Ryann Doyle of Seymour and Lexi Allen closed the game with a goal apiece for both squads.

Gunnin, Sewell propel Lady Panthers to 2nd county championship in 3 years

Jefferson-East Jackson Baseball Scenes Colin Hubbard The Paper

Jackson County’s Cierra Gunnin during last week’s Jackson County Championship.

Gunnin finished first overall and the Lady Panthers won the team title.

BY COLIN HUBBARD

sports@clickthepaper.com

Doug Chellew The Paper

The Jefferson Dragons defeated region-foe East Jackson last Saturday (14-1 and 10-0). Jefferson pitcher Ethan Garner gave up only one hit and struck out five Eagles in game one.

Will Breese connected for two hits and three RBIs. Taylor Wilkes, Jake Franklin and Jared Bates connected for two RBIs. In game two, Wilkes delivered a three-hit shutout, striking out eight Eagles along the way. Garner smashed his way to three hits and four RBIs. Christian Hutch added two RBIs on one hit. Four other Dragon tallied an RBI in the game. TOP: Taylor Wilkes delivers a pitch. MIDDLE: Will Breese fields a groundball. BOTTOM: Ethan Garner connects for a hit.

COMMERCE – Headed into the girls’ Jackson County golf championships, Jackson County Lady Panthers head coach Aj Sibcy knew it was going to come down to the Jefferson Lady Dragons and his squad.

“I have been watching the Dragons very closely this season and knew that it was going to be an exciting match for us to get to compete with such a good team,” Sibcy said.

The Lady Panthers wanted to avenge last season’s two-stroke loss at the hands of the Lady Dragons.

Led by Cierra Gunnin’s round of four-overpar 40, the Lady Panthers met all of their expectations and avenged last year’s near miss to capture their second county championship in the last three years with an overall score of 130, their lowest of the year.

“We came out here expecting to play good,” Gunnin stated. “This is the lowest I’ve shot all season and I couldn’t be happier with the way I played today.”

The Lady Panthers held off the Lady Dragons, who finished 13 shots behind (143).

East Jackson placed third and Commerce rounded out the scoring in fourth.

With the win, the Lady Panthers improved to a perfect 10-0 on the season.

Not only did the Lady Panthers win the team title, Gunnin earned low medalist honors.

Gunnin started out her round with a par at the first and was just two over par after four

holes of play.

With a one-shot lead over teammate Hattie Sewell through five holes, Gunnin parred three out of the last four holes to cap off her best round of the season.

Gunnin and Sewell combined for eight pars and nine bogeys on the day.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our team,” Sibcy said.

When asked how it felt to win your first county championship as a coach, Sibcy answered, “amazing.”

Sewell carded a 43 and Katie Fife shot a 47 to round out the scoring for the Lady Panthers.

Last year’s low medalist, Madison Cornes, fired a round of 42 for the Lady Dragons.

Caroline Martin added a 49.

Cornes played her last four holes at even par but back-to-back bogeys mid-way through her round deemed too much to overcome.

“We knew coming into this new region that they (Jackson County) were going to be one of the top teams to beat,” Jefferson head coach Tom Parker stated.

Parker called this match a measuring stick for the Lady Dragons.

“We were able to come out here and see where we stand as a team and where we need to improve in order to compete with some of the top teams in the state, like, Jackson County,” Parker added.

“The good thing about golf is that you get a clean slate at the region tournament, so we will assess where we are as a team and continue to grow a unit. We have a bright future ahead of us, and I am really looking forward to it.”

Mill Creek Golf The girls’ squad won the Grizzly Classic last weekend. Grace Choi shot 86. Vicky Rodriguez carded an 88, while Allison Every added a 94 and Marie Lipski shot 96.

The girls also picked up wins over Collins Hill and Norcross as well.

Colin Hubbard The Paper

Jackson County’s Hattie Sewell during last week’s Jackson County Championship.

Mill Creek Tennis: Lady Hawks blank South Forsyth, 5-0; Hawks roll to 4-1 win

BY COLIN HUBBARD

sports@clickthepaper.com

Hawks, Lady Hawks have stellar showing at Gwinnett County meet by kyle funderburk and Charles Phelps

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

The Mill Creek High School track and field team put together a stellar Gwinnett County meet.

Both the varsity and junior varsity boys’ squads finished second overall. Sam Costa and Noah Hollis finished second and sixth, respectively, in the 3,200-meter run.

Delaney Moore finished seventh in the 800-meter run and the 4x400 relay team finished in third place.

Gavin Childers paced the junior varsity squad as he won the 1,600-meter run. The 4x800 relay team brought home a secondplace finish and the 4x100 group finished seventh in its race.

The varsity girls finished in seventh place, while the junior varsity finished in fifth.

Camryn Petit (varsity) led the Lady Hawks as she brought home a first-place finish in the girls’ 3,200-meter run. Shanelle Valentine (varsity) finished sixth in the 100-meter hurdles.

The 4x100 junior varsity girls finished sixth place. Janee Hendrick-Barnes finished sixth in the 300-meter hurdles. Angela Korol finished seventh in the 800-meter run.

The Mill Creek sub-varsity track and field group had a stellar performance last Wednes-

day as well.

The boys’ squad scored 103 points to outshine Collins Hill and Flowery Branch who scored 27 and 20 points, respectively. The girls echoed that performance with 79 points compared to the 46 by Collins Hill and five by Flowery Branch.

The Mill Creek boys took the top three spots in many different events including the 100 and 400-meter dash, 1600-meter run, pole vault and discus throw. They also had one-two finishes in the 4x400 and 4x800 relays.

The girls swept the top three spots in the 800-meter run, pole vault and triple jump.

Then, used first place finishes in 200-meter dash, 4x100 and 4x800 relays, shot put and discus throw to propel them past Collins Hill.

Jefferson Dragons The boys’ squad dominated a four-team meet last Wednesday, scoring 141 points to beat second-place finisher Athens Academy by 96 points.

They set season records in 13 of the 16 events and took first place in nine events.

They also swept the top-five spots in the 1,600-meter run, which was won by Ian Byers. They took the top-four positions in the 3,200-meter run (Addison Cochran won the event).

They also finished one-two-three in the 200-meter dash.

HOSCHTON – The 2015 tennis season for the Mill Creek Hawks is in full swing.

With five matches played in five days, the Hawks and Lady Hawks have been tested every way imaginable.

The Lady Hawks picked up a 5-0 win over non-region opponent South Forsyth last Thursday.

“It was a good non-region win for us today,” Mill Creek head coach Tim Schroer said. “We have two region matches left on the schedule, so it was good for us to get a test outside of the region to prepare us for next week.”

After making a deep state playoff run a season ago, the lady Hawks are right where they need to be.

Standout varsity player Kayleigh Hahn dominated Kinsey Kotscher in straight sets, (6-0, 6-0) to pick up the first point for the girls on the day.

“I feel good about how I am playing this season,” Hahn explained. “The competition is tough, but I fight through it and play my best each match.”

Next to compete was Abbi Jordan for the lady Hawks.

Jordan made quick work of Ashley Amacher to pick up the win in straight sets (6-0, 6-0).

In the last singles’ match of the day, Kirsten Nichols defeated Aishani Naga (6-0, 6-0).

Next to play was the sister tandem of Madison and Lauren Walsh. After a slow start, the Walsh sisters rebounded and won in straight sets (6-1, 6-2).

Last to take the court was the team of Emilee Martinez and Sarabeth Jordan. Martinez and Jordan secured the fifth and final point, shutting out South Forsyth.

Mill Creek 4, South Forsyth 1 In what has been an up and down season for the Mill Creek boys’ tennis team, one thing has stood pat all season long, sophomore Kyle Mendoza has solidified his spot as the No. 1 player for the Hawks.

And, Mendoza did not dis-

appoint last Thursday after defeating Sahil Balhara in straight sets (6-1, 6-4) to give the team a much-needed first point.

“It felt good to pick up the win today,” Mendoza said.

“The match was very easy for me in the first set, but he (Balhara) fought back in the second set. He kept the ball in play more and made it tough for me to pick up points. But, I fought through and pulled it out.”

Head coach Tim Schroer said, “Kyle played well today. He’s fighting through a shoulder injury on top of that, so he will get some rest down the stretch for us.”

Next in line for the Hawks was Shawn Tribble, who like Mendoza, rolled to victory after beating Abhinav Joshi in straight sets (6-3, 6-0).

“I thought Shawn played well today,” Schroer explained. “He still has room for improvement, but he played really well for us and will be a key part to our success in the future.”

With the Hawks up 2-0, Colin Pendleton took the court looking to make it three wins.

And, that is exactly what he did in straight sets (6-1, 6-1).

The Hawks split their two doubles matches on the afternoon to finish off the War Eagles.

Schroer expects both the boys and girls to secure either the third or fourth spot in the region and is very pleased with where they are at on the year.

I feel good about how I am playing this season. The competition is tough, but I fight through it and play my best each match.

Kayleigh Hahn Mill Creek Lady Hawks tennis player

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3B

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BALD&PROUD

Penny Stowe For The Paper

Colorful Gerbera daisies were among the flowers available at last year’s spring garden expo and the selection promises to be equally appealing at the April 3-4 event.

Spring Garden Expo is April 3-4 in Hall Co. The bushes, flowers and trees are beginning to bloom, so that must mean Georgia’s biggest two-day plant sale can’t be far away.

This year’s Hall County Master Gardeners Spring Garden Expo is on Friday, April 3, and Saturday, April 4, at Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, located at 1855 Calvary Church Road in Gainesville. What a treat it will be to see so many beautiful plants and just plain fun stuff to maintain and decorate your garden.

Regular Expo visitors will recognize many returning nurseries such as McMahon’s Nursery, Highland Gardens, The Potting Shed and Randy’s Perennials. Vendors offering gardening accessories include Pottery By Michelle, Best Friends Glassworks, Cordell Creations and New Horizons.

“We are lining up an assorted cast of vendors so shoppers can have plenty of varieties of plants to choose from, including native plants which attract beneficial insects such as pollinators and are hardy in our climate,” said Vicky Ginn, one of the Hall County Master Gardeners.

There will also be speakers each day. On Friday, you can hear Master Gardener Becky Mensinger talk about “Using Art In Your Garden” at 11 a.m., followed by Rudy Kiefer at 1 p.m. discussing “Weather Patterns and How They Affect Gardening in Georgia.” On Saturday, Jim Seymour will speak about “Critters in the Garden” at 11 a.m., and at 1 p.m., Bob Bradbury will present “Beekeeping 101.”

Sweet Butts, a barbeque vendor, will be there for any hungry shoppers.

Carts will be available to borrow, and when that cart gets full of goodies, there is a holding area where we store your selections while you go shop some more.

Save the dates and the times – Friday the gates open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is a $2 per adult admission fee. Children are admitted free, but pets have to stay home.

And why not plan ahead for Fall, and save those dates for the Fall Garden Expo Sept. 25 and 26.

More information is available at 770-535-8293 or www. hcmgs.com/expos.

Penny Stowe For The Paper

In addition to plants, trees and shrubs as well as garden art, food and more, the April 3-4 event will also feature speakers on various gardening topics.

CHURCH NEWs Walnut Fork Baptist Church, located off Highway 60 in Hoschton, will host a children’s Easter celebration on Saturday, April 4, with an egg hunt at 2 p.m. and an ice cream social to follow. sss Holy Week is here at First Baptist Church of Jefferson. April 2 is the Church’s Maundy Thursday service which will begin at 7:30 p.m.

This service incorporates both the Last Supper and Good Friday events together. Easter Sunday is April 5 and there will be a sunrise service at 7 a.m. on the lawn next to the cross followed by a light breakfast. At 9 a.m., there will be a time of prayer followed by Sunday school at 9:40 and worship at 10:50 and 11.

On April 6 at 6:15 a.m., the Men’s Ministry will meet in the church fellowship to hear Mark Mobley, senior pastor of Living Word Worship Center, share his testimony.

The church food bank will be closed on April 3.

The FBCJ Preschool is taking applications now for August 2015.

Contact the church for more information.

The church is located at 246 Washington St., in Jefferson. Visit www. fbcjefferson.org. sss CrossView Church is hosting an Easter egg hunt from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 4.

The hunt will be divided into age groups and there will be prize eggs, drawings for gift cards,

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Because Tracy Brandenburg of Artistic Expressions Hair Salon has a heart for children, Addi Strong was selected as the St. Baldrick’s Foundation Shave-a-thon Honor Child for the Braselton area’s March 28 fundraiser in which Team Ty-Bo members Bo Souto and Ty Collingsworth had their heads shaved alongside their West Jackson Intermediate School principal Troy Johnson. Their team was Kickin’ Cancer’s Butt as the top fundraiser with $ $2.032.28 going to combat childhood cancers. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

St. Baldrick’s shavea-thon raises more than $5,500 to kick childhood cancers

BY LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

Dollars are still coming in from Saturday’s St. Baldrick’s Foundation shave-a-thon put together by Artistic Expressions Hair Salon and tis owner Tracy Brandenburg.

Troy Johnson, principal of West Jackson Intermediate School, said a challenge was put out since there is not enough research funding going toward childhood cancer.

“We were hoping for $1,000,” said Johnson, who noted that the Ty-Bo team, whose slogan was Kickin’ Cancer’s Butt, raised more than $1,500 alone. Ty Collingsworth and Bo Souto enlisted the help of their family and friends to raise money and they put their hair on the line to stand in solidarity with those battling childhood cancer, including the event’s Honor Child, Addi Strong of Gainesville.

As emcee Lonnie Mahan of the Tri-County Shrine Club issued another challenge to those gathered to watch Ty, Bo and their principal get their heads shaved, additional dollars – fives, tens and even hundreds – were handed over to boost the team’s fundraising to $2,032.28.

Michael Begotner was the first shavee at the shave-a-thon held Saturday in front of Artistic Expressions Hair Salon in the Braselton Brothers Store building. The Tri-County Shrine Club assisted in coordination of the event which featured raffles and more, with food, including donations from sponsors, cooked up and served up with proceeds benefiting St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

Members of the West Jackson Fire Department participated in the St. Baldrick’s Foundation shave-a-thon coordinated by Artistic Expressions Hair Salon. Some firefighters, including Chief Ben Stephens, had their heads shaved while others assisted with fundraising efforts. gift baskets and free food and drinks available. The egg hunt will be held rain or shine. The church is located at 1219 Highway 124 in Hoschton. For more information, call 678-4259831. sss Easter services are right around the corner at The Church of Hoschton.

The church’s first Good Friday service be held at 6 p.m. on April 3.

Bring the children to our other location at 380 Sam Freeman Road on Saturday, April. 4, beginning at 4 p.m. for the Easter egg hunt with special guest, the Easter Bunny. Easter Sunday, we will begin Sunrise Service at 7:30 a.m. followed by breakfast at the new pavilion on Sam Freeman Road. The Easter cantata will be at 10:30 a.m .at the church’s current location, 99 E. Jefferson St., in

Hoschton. Check back for more opportunities at THE Church of Hoschton in the coming months.

Call the church office at 706-654-8415 for more information. sss Hoschton United Methodist Church is observing Holy Week with a Maundy Thursday service at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 2.

Communion will be served.

April 5 is Easter Sunday with a sunrise service at 7 a.m. and a pancake breakfast in the fellowship hall at 8 a.m.

An Easter music special will be provided during the Easter service. All are invited to the HUMC sunrise service and pancake breakfast and are strongly encouraged to return for the enjoyment of the Easter message in music by the HUMC Choir

and in word by Pastor Marvin Mason.

The church is at 12 Mulberry St., in Hoschton.

Call 706-654-1422. sss Arbor Pointe Church invites the community to join in one of their special services on Easter weekend. A Good Friday “Tenebrae” service (Latin for “shadows”) will be held on Friday, April 3, at 7 p.m.

This is a powerful service that walks with Jesus to the point of death and burial. And then, on Easter morning, join together in the church courtyard at 7 a.m. for a sunrise service (bring your own chair). The church is located in the Towne Center plaza at 115 Towne Center Parkway in Hoschton. www. arborpointe.org sss THE Church of

Hoschton is highlighting: Good Friday Service with communion on April 3; April 4 is the Easter egg hunt with the Easter bunny; the Easter sunrise service and cantata is April 5. Call the church, located at 99 E. Jefferson St., in Hoschton, at 706654-8415. The church is led by Pastor E. Cory Sexton. sss New Community Church is hosting the Easter Extravaganza from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 4. The entire family is involved to enjoy a pancake breakfast, pictures with the Easter bunny and fun activities for kids. New Community Church is at 126 Merchants Park Drive in Hoschton. Contact the church office at 706658-0300 or visit www. newcommunityonline. com.

4B

features

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

Garden Party: Live and silent auction benefits the Girls & Boys Clubs of Jackson County Music, money-making & more

More than $30,000 has been raised for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Jackson County to date from the March 20 annual auction with a garden party theme. The event was held at the Commerce Civic Center and featured musical entertainment by Tre Powell.

Executive director Michael Williams reminded that the community had actively supported fundraising for the Jefferson club and now focus is turning to raising money for a new Commerce Club. The auction was a live and silent experience. See more scenes at ClickThePaper. com

The Tree House grosses $56,000 at annual auction Bonny Harper and Zac Taylor Regional staff

The silent auction goes on during the evening while event-goers enjoy the social time and dining before the live auction gets under way with the goal of raising money for The Tree House.

The Tree House grossed almost $56,000 at its 17th annual live and silent auction – A Night of Hope for Children – Friday, March 27, at the Winder Community Center and executive drector Becky Lee said probably $45,000-$48,000 – about $10,000 more than last year’s auction – will be profit.

Lee said The Tree House, the chldren’s advocacy center serving child victims of abuse in Barrow, Banks and Jackson counties, had been expecting about 260 guests but she thought there were closer to 300. Event organizers had to pull out more tables for

the unexpected number of guests.

Winder-Barrow High School Boys’ Head Basketball Coach Ron Garren won one of the favored prizes: two season passes to all University of Georgia home football games this fall, courtesy of Akins Ford.

“It was really wonderful to have that many community members show up and support us in what we do every day,” Lee said.

Learn more about The Tree House and how you can support its mission at www.thetreehouseinc.org

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features

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

5B

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Placing a red carnation wreath at the Crawford W. Long monument in downtown Jefferson was Jefferson Councilman Don Kupis, Fred Gurley of Crawford Long Pharmacy, Jefferson Mayor Roy Plott, Crawford W. Long Museum manager Vicky Starnes, Main Street Jefferson executive director Beth Laughinghouse and Jefferson Councilman Mac Gramley.

Doctors’ Day is celebrated Doctors’ Day is nationally recognized on March 30 every year to celebrate the contribution of physicians who serve our country by caring for its citizens.

Doctors’ Day is a special event in this area as it was first observed in Winder on March 30, 1933, by the Barrow County Alliance. Mrs. Eudora Brown Almond, wife of Dr. Charles B. Almond, hosted a luncheon to honor of the doctors in the area.

Mrs. Almond chose March 30 as the date to celebrate Doctors Day to recognize Dr. Crawford Long’s first use of anesthesia on March 30, 1842. Since Dr. Long’s office was in Jefferson, Mrs. Almond felt that would be an appropriate date to honor doctors.

From 1933 to 1958, the Women’s Auxiliary of the Southern Medical Association kept the tradition of Doctors Day alive. They celebrated the occasion by mailing cards to physicians and by placing flowers on the graves of the deceased doctors.

This year to commemorate Doctors’ Day, the Crawford Long Mu-

For The Paper

Dr. Will Grimsley was presented with a red carnation in an early observance of Doctors’ Day by Vicky Starnes and Jackson & Coker associates who also readied the carnations for delivery on Friday inside the Crawford W. Long Museum. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com seum in Jefferson and Jackson & Coker, a physician staffing firm in Alpharetta, teamed up to honor local physicians on March 25.

Doctors’ Day is observed each March 30, marking the day Crawford Long performed the first surgery using ether as anesthesia. See the story behind his discovery in a video featuring Andy Garrison portraying Dr. Crawford W. Long at www.crawfordlong.org/id10.html.

A postcard was also sent to area physicians.

A red carnation wreath has

also been placed at the Crawford W. Long Museum monument in downtown Jefferson. Fred Gurley of Crawford Long Pharmacy participated in the wreath-placing along with Vicky Starnes, manager of the Crawford W. Long Museum in Jefferson, Main Street Jefferson executive director Beth Laughinghouse, Jefferson Mayor Roy Plott and Councilmen Don Kupis and Mac Gramley.

In 1990, legislation was introduced into the House and Senate to establish a national Doctors’ Day.

With overwhelming approval, President George H.W. Bush signed Senate Joint Resolution #336 designating March 30 as National Doctors’ Day. The first national observance occurred in 1991. The red carnation has become the symbol of Doctors’ Day for the qualities of love, charity, sacrifice, bravery and courage.

Jackson & Coker associates were at the museum the morning of March 25 and they visited hospitals and clinics in the area to pass out red carnations.

Colonial Trade Faire held at Fort Yargo State Park The sixth annual 18th Century Colonial Market Faire was held Fort Yargo State Park by the Fort Yargo Living History Society on March

27-29 and more than 2,100 visitors toured the 18th century living history event over the weekend.

Sunday’s weather pro-

vided a sunny and warm day for the faire which found exhibitors and visitors facing cold temperatures and windy conditions on Satur-

day.

During the trade faire, the old fort was open and 18th century craftsmen and women demonstrated their LeAnne Akin The Paper

Children could try their hand at using some period tools as well as play hoops, a game of the period, during the 18th Century Colonial Trade Faire at Fort Yargo State Park. See more at ClickThePaper.com

trades including blacksmithing, woodworking, candle making, cooking and doll making.

The frontier camp was set up and there were Native

American warriors, militia drills, children’s activities and a strolling minstrel.

There was food to be enjoyed and coon skin caps for purchase plus more.

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events

The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS Presenting the musical Oklahoma!. East Jackson Comprehensive High School Drama Club will perform Oklahoma!

April 2 and 3 in the EJCHS auditorium. The production is directed by Ashley Ware.

The vocals are directed by EJCHS Choral Director Alan Bunn and the Orchestra is led by EJCHS Band Director Miguel Guisasola. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students at the door.

Easter egg hunt in Jefferson.

Main Street Jefferson and the Rotary Club of Jefferson will host an Easter egg hunt at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 4, at the Jefferson Clubhouse.

Easter parade and egg hunt in Commerce. Decorate your bicycles, wagons, scooters and battery-operated vehicles and line up on Georgia Avenue on Commerce on April 4 for the 26th annual Easter parade and egg hunt.

The parade will begin at 10:45 a.m. down South Elm Street and end at the First Baptist Church with the egg hunt. Bring your baskets.

Awards will be given for the best decorated paraders.

The events are sponsored by Main Street Commerce.

Mentoring training. Lindsay’s Legacy Mentoring is offering a free training session from 3-4:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 7, at the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more about the role mentoring plays in the Jackson County community and volunteer opportunities, visit www.

LindsaysLegacyMentoring. org or call 706-410-5525.

Friends of the Library annual meeting. The annual meeting of Friends of the BraseltonWest Jackson Library will be held on Wednesday, April 8, immediately following our Lunch & Learn program which begins at 11:30 a.m. The speaker for the lunch and learn will be Gay H. Hammond, resident dramatist of the Gainesville Theater Alliance. To make your reservations for the lunch of homemade soups, salad and dessert for $6 per person, call Debbie at 678963-5423. Also at the meeting, Hamilton State Bank will be making a $1,000 donation to support the Friends’ AFTERWORDS Store. “This marks the eighth consecutive year that Hamilton State Bank has been a strong supporter of our organization,”

said Friends president Dan Aldridge.

Rotary Club golf tournament.

The Rotary Club of Braselton will host a fundraising golf tournament at The Legends at Chateau Elan on Tuesday, April 14, with a Monday preevent party on tap. A wine and cheese social starting at 5:30 p.m. will also include free prostrate cancer screenings (a blood draw) and testosterone level testing as well as a hands-on demonstration of the da Vinci machine used in laser surgery techniques compliments of Dr. Brent Sharp, the staff of Northeast Georgia Urological Associates and Intuitive Surgerical. To register your golf team, go to braseltonrotarygolftournament.com.

For more information and details on the tournament, the social and memebership, you can also contact club president Howard Hardaway at 770-354-7553 or email howard.hardaway.gsb6@ statefarm.com or hhowardhardaway@gmail.com Night of Wine and Roses at the museum. On Thursday, April 16, the Crawford Long Museum will hold an after-hours painting party “A Night of Wine and Roses” from 7:00-9 p.m. with instruction from Belinda Harris of Belinda Harris Arts.

Learn to paint roses on wine glasses with step-by-step instructions, including how to bake them in the oven at home. Attendees will enjoy wine and light appetizers.

No experience necessary.

This is fun art, not fine art.

Pre-registration required and space is limited. All supplies and refreshments included in registration fee. Cost is $25 for museum members and $30 for nonmembers. Additional glasses may be purchased for $2 each. For further information and to make reservations, contact the museum at 706367-5307. Museum operating hours, Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Open air market at ShieldsEthridge Farm. The Cultivators’ Market at the ShieldsEthridge Heritage Farm gets under way April 18. The open-air market encourages homesteading practices with the goal of bringing the community together with local farmers, growers and entrepreneurs in a festival atmosphere on the grounds of the 200-year-old working

farm. It will be held from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on the third Saturday of every month from April through October.

There will be live music and experts on various homesteading practices. Visitors will be able to purchase fresh produce and handmade products while touring the farm located at 2355 Ethridge Road in Jefferson.

Help for Adventure Bags. Helping Hands Poker Run will be held April 18 as a fundraiser for Adventure Bags, a local organization that provides a bag filled with necessities and items of comfort for children who are being removed from their homes and placed in foster care.

Sponsored by ABATE of Georgia – Fifth District North and Sonic Drive-In of North Georgia, the poker run will begin at Sonic in Bogart, located next to Cycle World of Athens. Registration is at 9 a.m. with the first bike out at 10 a.m. First hand is $15 with additional hands for $5. Call Allen Kennedy at 770-2314824.

Art gallery show. The Georgia Piedmont Arts Center is announcing the “Color of Spring” gallery show to be held at their new location, 122 W. May St., in Winder.

The opening reception will be from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, April 17. The gallery will also be open on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and thereafter on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday from noon to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ribbons will be awarded for Best of Show, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and honorable mention in 2D and 3D. There will also be a gift shop for the purchase of handmade items. The mission of Georgia Piedmont Arts Center is to cultivate, facilitate and promote a community in which all forms of art can thrive cooperatively to enrich all citizens through excellence in cultural education, participation, appreciation and enjoyment. If you would like more information or an application to participate, go to the website at www.georgiapiedmontartscenter.com Jefferson Garden Club tour.

The Jefferson Garden Club tour will be held rain or shine

from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. This year’s tour features five area gardens.

Tickets are $15 advance, $20 day of tour with children under 12 free. Tickets available at Jefferson Public Library or call 706-367-8704.

Race for Williams. The fifth annual Race for Williams will be held at Crow’s Lake in Jefferson on Sunday, May 3. The 5K fundraiser will raise money for the Williams Syndrome Association while also raising awareness about this rare genetic disorder.

There will be lots of activities for an afternoon of family fun by the lake. You can participate in the Fun Run/ Walk 1-mile event at 2:30 p.m. or the 5K trail race at 3 p.m. or donate if you want to contribute, but can’t attend.

Come out and enjoy all of the free kid activities that will begin at 1p.m. such as face painting, fair hair, bounce house, inflatable slide, dunking booth, balloon clowns and more. The concession stand will be available from 1-5 p.m. so come out for lunch. Go online now at www.williams-syndrome. org/jefferson to guarantee your T-shirt with registration.

Memorial Day parade. Planning is under way for the Jackson County Memorial Day Parade to be held Monday, May 25, in downtown Jefferson. The parade will start at 2 p.m. Main Street Jefferson is coordinating; contact Beth Laughinghouse at blaughinghouse@ cityofjefferson.com or call 706-367-5714. Visit www. mainstreetjefferson.com Lights, Camera, Relay.

The 2015 Braselton-Hoschton Relay For Life which had been announced for Saturday, May 16, in Braselton Park is being rescheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15.

With the upcoming departure of American Cancer Society representative Mandy Ryan and the desire to tie the theme in with the Town of Braselton’s Movies Under the Stars, the date change is being announced. The theme is Lights! Camera! Relay! so think movies and TV for your campsite and team theme. A family-friendly day with games and activities for children is planned with the focus on the reasons we Relay: survivors and continuing to raise funds and aware-

ness and reflecting on those lost. What to form a team or volunteer? Call committee

chairman Joanne Gentile at 770-789-1972 or email her at jgentile62@gmail.com.

BRIEFLY Interested in Leadership Jackson?

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2016 Leadership Jackson class.

Leadership Jackson seeks to create a network of informed and concerned citizens to guide the future of the community.

Through this Leadership program, the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce strives to develop leaders.

Upon graduating the program, participants have gained the skills to use towards helping the community, their organizations, employers and themselves for the better.

Throughout the program, participants are exposed to many of the vital parts of what makes a community successful.

The Leadership Jackson program includes monthly sessions in which participants meet and interact with community leaders discussing education, public safety, economic development, tourism, health and human services and other important topics.

Participants kick off the program with a retreat to foster team building, learning to be an effective leader and preparing for the year ahead. Participants are encouraged to utilize what they learn and apply it to the class project. The class project is brainstormed, created and executed solely by the class and presented in the June session, the month before graduation.

Each year, Leadership Jackson engages emerging leaders in a year-long program that broadens knowledge of the issues, sharpens leadership skills and challenges to seek solutions to the issues affecting Jackson County.

The nomination deadline is April 3 and applications are due May 1. For information, contact Melissa Britt, membership director for the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce, at 706-387-0300 or email mbritt@ jacksoncountyga.com

Citizens Police Academy begins April 14 Andy Garrison and the law enforcement leaders of Jackson County announce applications are now being accepted for the Spring 2015 Jackson County Citizens Police Academy.

This a seven- week program that introduces the participants to the challenging world of public safety. Some of the topics included are: The Law, Crime Scene Investigation, Social Services, Firearms, Special Tactics, Drug/ Gang Awareness, Defensive Tactics, Terrorism, Traffic Investigation and DUI Enforcement.

Tours of Jackson County Fire Training complex and the county jail are included.

The class meets on Tuesday evenings from 5:30-9:30 p.m. beginning on April 14. Tuition for the program is $65 and includes class T-shirts, meals and graduation banquet.

Applications have to be submitted and approved before acceptance. Contact Andy Garrison at andy@andygarrison.com to request an application. The class fills quickly so email today. Only a limited number of seats are available.

May 1 is deadline for Braselton academy Applications are now being accepted for the 2015 class of the Braselton Citizens Academy. The classes are held from May to October on the third Thursday of each month from 6-8 p.m.

There are also optional other days for special tours and law enforcement ride-alongs.

Classes cover all aspects of Braselton’s government structure and responsibilities. Members get a true behind the scenes look at how Braselton performs its daily tasks and special events.

Applications will be accepted through May 1.

For an application, email Jennifer Dees at jdees@braselton.net

Exceptional. Accessible.

Clean Out Your Closet Now accepting consignments.

Bring in your seasonal Chicos and Talbots.

Specializing in Chicos Resale We also consign Jewelry, Purses, and Sandals.

Cathy’s Boutique 678-450-1544

4311 Mundy Mill Rd

• Oakwood, GA 30566

Songbird Haven

That’s Athens Regional Cardiology.

Access to the best in cardiovascular care is closer than you think. The Athens Regional Cardiology team is made up of some of the top heart care doctors in the Southeast. They emphasize education and prevention for those at risk for heart disease, while providing state-of-the-art surgical care when you or your loved ones need it.

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It’s an integrated approach to heart care, right here at home.

If you or someone you know has a history of heart disease, A-fib or you’re experiencing symptoms such a shortness of breath, schedule an appointment today with the Athens Regional Cardiology Team.

(Excluding Brome Products) Expires 4/30/15

Monday-Saturday 10-6, Sunday 12-5

2463 Hamilton Mill Parkway (in Publix Shopping Center)

770-932-4078

www.georgiasongbirdhaven.com

Call 706.475.1700 or visit AthensHealth.org/Cardiology

CMYK The Paper | Thursday, April 2, 2015

7B

ENTERTAINMENT

Honor family or stand up for your fiance?

Dear Carolyn: Long story short, my Indian parents and by extension my siblings do not like my significant other because he is a white, non-college-educated man.

I had to make boundaries and live my own life as I see fit. This was five years ago.

During this time, my parents realized for us to have any type of relationship, they will have to accept he is a part of my life. It’s not ideal, lots of small talk, but we are making slow progress.

My problem is my brother’s upcoming wedding. In the Indian culture, there is no “dating” since everything is arranged marriages.

Therefore, there is no such thing as a boyfriend. Until my significant other is my husband or fiance, he will not be invited.

On one hand, I find it ridiculous the man I live with and plan to marry (we don’t

Carolyn Hax have a set date, and therefore are not considered engaged by the family), would not be invited to such a large family event. However, this is my brother’s wedding, and I don’t have any more right to force my brother to adopt my values than my parents do to force me to live by theirs.

Normally, I would just decline to go, but this is a large family event (800-plus people) and not going will cause irreparable pain and damage with my family. I could go without my significant other, but then I feel like I am not standing up for him and our relationship. The

easy solution would be to set a date for our wedding, but then I feel like I am getting married on their terms instead of my own. He and I are 34 and 29, respectively.

I feel like this is tearing me apart. — Torn Standing up for your own beliefs and honoring your family are such important goals, with lifelong implications.

It doesn’t necessarily follow, though, that every decision involving them will have lifelong implications.

Sometimes, an event is just an event, or a decision is just for now.

Sometimes, pragmatism is the only statement you need to make.

Where now you’re thinking Beliefs vs. Family, try thinking instead: What’s easiest? As in, which path has the least burdensome consequences?

From here, at least, it

looks pretty straightforward. If you blow off a family wedding in a strictly traditional family, then you have, in your words, caused “irreparable pain and damage.” Whether that’s a fair or reasonable response on their part is irrelevant, because you have no say in how they respond.

If instead you attend the wedding solo, then you have significant, if not complete, say in how that affects your future. You can discuss it with your partner beforehand and do it only if he’s in full agreement. You can make sure it’s the exception, not a precedent, for how you manage your family’s displeasure. You’ve got five years of good boundaries behind you, and an entire future of them ahead of you if necessary, to “stand up for him and our relationship.”

If he’s not in full agreement, then you don’t go, of course, because the path

WORKING IT OUT

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

you’ve chosen is with him.

Right? Assuming a disagreement on this doesn’t expose foundational problems between you.

One more thought: If you solve this by setting a wedding date, then the timing would be on your family’s terms, sure, but the choice of groom is on yours — much more significant. Besides, you’ve already shown you have little use for the formalities by seeing yourself as committed now, as-is, so presumably that cuts both ways.

If you’re not ready to get engaged, then don’t get engaged, obviously; never, ever use your future as a way to score points.

Dear Carolyn: I am in my early 20s. My parents have been divorced for three years. Dad “moved on” within months of their separating. Although his lady friend was not the cause

of the divorce, I’m sure my mother believes if she hadn’t been in the picture, they may have had a chance to repair things.

I am not wild about Dad’s lady friend, although we have both been nothing but friendly. I have purposely skipped some events because I know she will be there. When I am hosting an event, is it rude of me to invite my dad and not her?

They are living together. — (A Different) Torn Yes, it is rude to exclude, I’m sorry. You can ask to see your dad one-on-one, but any event that includes mates has to include her.

As for your mother’s discomfort, it is understandable, but it does not confer an obligation or permission for you to shut the lady friend out.

Chat with Carolyn online at noon each Friday at www. washingtonpost.com.

What do you like about your paper? Send an email to editor@clickthepaper.com or call 706-658-2683.

SOLUTION

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cmyk 8B

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 770-535-1199 www.gainesvilletimes.com

The Paper

Classifieds Services

Announcements

770-535-1199 Toll Free 1-800-395-5005

Instruction MUSIC LESSONS. Piano, violin, cello. All ages.

Hoschton area.

770-614-6112

Misc. Services ESTATE LIQUIDATION Offering a unique, special, personal, sensitive service. We are able to come into the home, on your behalf. Inventory of each and every item will be presented to you. We will dispose of everything by sale or donation. Call for details.

678-997-3040

Announcements Lost & Found LOST: BAT- Gold Colored with plaque that reads: “ Mayhem”.

Laurel Park , Saturday. $100 Reward Offered.

770-656-1194

Notice ATTENTION CLASSIFIED CUSTOMERS The Times Classified Department asks that you verify and proof your classified ad(s) the first day that it is scheduled to print.

If any corrections need to be made, please contact our department, Monday through Friday, before 3pm.

The Times will not be held responsible for any issues that may arise after the first day of publication. classifieds@ gainesvilletimes.com 770-535-1199

Jobs Adult Care-Help Wanted Become a Home Care Giver. If caring for others is your passion then join our professional home care team and assist elderly and disabled in your community.

HomeNurse, Inc. is seeking applicants for Nursing Assistants and Personal Care Assistants. Apply on line at www.homenurse. net

Construction Construction Company seeks the following: EXPERIENCED CDL DRIVERS PIPE LAYERS ADMIN. ASSISTANT 953 LOADER OPER Send Resume: resumeswithasg@gmail. com Apply in person: 2820 Barrett Road, Gainesville

Dump Truck Driver/ Experienced Heavy Equipt Oper. needed for local grading co. Drug screen required. 770-869-3135

Dental C&B Dental lab hiring a Porcelain technician experienced in buildup, opaque & glaze.

Email resume to terri@ creativedentallab.com.

Now hiring dental technicians with experience in ceramic, CAD/CAM, model department, and die-trimming.

Also, one entry level position is currently available.

E&R Dental Lab 770-534-9090

Maintenance 2 Experienced Landscape Positions 770-866-1401

Child Care, Help Wanted Construction Dental Domestic Education Financial General Sales Agents Maintenance Management Medical Misc. Help Wanted Office/Clerical Part Time Help Wanted Poultry Production Professional Restaurant Help Security Technical Trades Truck Drivers Warehouse

*Business Opportunities *Financial *Happy Ads *Lost & Found *Notices *Personals *Situations Wanted

Place your ad today. Call

Services

of Braselton, Chateau Élan, Hoschton and Jackson County

*Home Improvement *Instruction *Landscaping *Misc Services *Painting & Papering *Plumbing *Pressure Washing *Remodeling & Repairs *Roofing *Welding

*Accounting *Adult Care *Carpentry *Catering *Childcare *Cleaning *Computer Services *Construction *Electricians *Firewood *Grading & Hauling *Handyman

The Paper Thursday, April 2, 2015

Jobs Accounting Adult Care, Help Wanted

Stuff *Antiques/Collectibles *Appliances *Auctions *Bicycles *Building Supplies *Cemetery Lots For Sale *Christmas Trees *Coins & Jewelry *Computers *Furniture *Guns *Heavy Equipment *Household Items *Lawn Equipment *Livestock *Misc. For Sale *Musical Instruments *Office Equipment *Pets & Supplies

Classification Index

*Sporting Equipment *Tickets *Wanted To Buy *Yard Sale *Yard Sale - Out Of Area

Homes & Real Estate

Homes - Rental Apartments - Furnished Apartments - Unfurnished Business Property For Rent Condominiums for Rent Duplexes For Rent Houses for Rent - Furnished Houses for Rent - Unfurnished Lake Home for Rent Mobile Homes for Rent *Roommates Wanted Rooms for Rent Vacation Property for Rent *Wanted to Rent

Acreage for Sale Business for Sale Business Property for Sale Condominiums for Sale Farms & Farm Land House for Sale - Hall House For Sale - Surrounding Investment Property Lake Home for Sale Lake Property for Sale Lots for Sale Mobile Homes for Sale Mountain Property Real Estate Wanted Surrounding Counties Vacation Property

Wheels

*All Terrain Vehicles *Antique Cars/Trucks *Auto Parts *Auto & Trucks Wanted *Autos for Sale *Four Wheel Drives *Import Cars *Motorcycles *Sport-Utility Vehicles *Tractor Trailers *Trucks *Vans

Recreation *Boats & Marine *RV’s/Travel Trailers

Apr 2013

Mon. - Fri. 8:30am - 5:00pm

Medical

Trades

CARDIOLOGIST (Gainesville Heart & Vascular Group PC, in Gainesvile, GA) invasive, non- interventional cardiologist; consults, interpret stress tests, transthoracic echocardiograms, holter & event monitor, carotid Doppler & peripheral vascular studies, etc., hospital consults, perform catheterizations, trans-esophageal echocardiograms & interpret cardiac PET stress test: Req’d MD or foreign equiv; GA Medical License, 3 yr internal medicine residency w/bd certification, 2yr clinical cardiology fellowship & bd eligibility in cardiology; passed NBE echo boards & certified as registered physician in vascular interpretation: Fax 678677-8018

The City of Commerce is currently seeking a qualified candidate to fill the position of Lead Fleet Mechanic.

Legacy Link, Inc., Area Agency on Aging, is seeking an experienced RN for our SOURCE Program.

Provides skilled nursing assessment services to program participants.

Minimum two years nursing experience required. See website for detailed description www.legacylink.org.

Contact Amy Allen, 770538-2668 or amallen@ legacylink.org. Equal Opportunity Employer

Misc. Help Wanted At Home Or Office Pt/Ft $200/$600 Wkly Phone, Cust. Svc Exp. Pd Trng. Buford Office Dental Care Rx 770-271-1115

Carriage Nissan in Gainesville is looking for Porters, Parts Drivers & Warehouse People.

F/T. Apply in person or email resume to: rtapp@ carriageauto group.com No phone calls please!

General Laborers Manufacturing Flowery Branch area.

On feet most of the day, some heavy lifting. Drug screen will be required.

Starting pay $8/hr. with raise up to $9 in 30 days (performance based).

Email resume to karen@ corbelstone.com

Needed: Commercial Landscapers & Tree Cutters- English or Spanish speaking.

678-873-0311

PRECISION HAIR CUTTERS- Now Hiring Hair Dresser- Exp’d Call Tommy Gooch, 706- 429-7905, 1290 Thompson Bridge Rd., Gainesville 30501

Recruiting for multiple positions including administrative, technical skilled, & production.

Thursday, April 02, 2015 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Gainesville Civic Center Chamber of Commerce Job Fair. For more info Gainesville@pridestaff. com.

Office/Clerical RECEPTIONIST Leasing Position.

Part-Time, every other weekend. 8am-6pm.

Apply in person: Gainesville Marina, 2145 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501

Professional EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: District 2 Public Health ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST I For more information on this Job Announcement please visit The District 2 Public Health’s website at www.phdistrict2.org Application Deadline: APRIL 10, 2015

This position manages the overall operations of the city shop and participates in the work involved in maintaining and repairing equipment and vehicles of the city’s fleet.

The Lead Fleet Mechanic is a Full-Time, (40 hours/week) Monday-Friday position with a generous benefit package: BCBS of Georgia Health Insurance, City Paid Dental, Prescription, Life, Short-Term Disability Coverage and a Defined Benefit Retirement Plan. Pay Range: $17.84/hr-$18.98/ hr.

Application and complete job description are available on the city’s website www. commercega. org. Please direct inquiries to tracyw@ commercega.org.

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

Open until filled.

P.T AUTOBODY PERSON Experience req’d 770614-8804

Truck Drivers CDL Class A or B DRIVERS with clean MVR needed for local Gainesville Company (Nix). Multiple positions open from Roll Off Dumpsters to Boom Truck Operators. Non CDL labor also needed.

Email contact info and experience to darrellw@ bellsouth.net CDL DRIVER, Reefer, SE, Home Weekends.

770-983-3388 CLASS A CDL DRIVERS needed for local trailer spotting company.

Must have clean MVR. Top pay and benefits.

Home everyday/night.

Please call 678-771-2930 or go to our website at www. lazerspot.com Class A CDL drivers needed. Late model trucks. 2 years Class A license, recent tractortrailer experience, clean 3 year MVR, and certified med card required. All local and great benefits.

If interested call 404691-2250 ext 245 DRIVER POSITIONS Morgan Concrete in Buford, Jefferson, Athens. Start now. Paid orientation and training to be concrete delivery pro. Great starting pay/ benefits. Must have 2yrs exp using CDL. See morganconcrete.com careers tab or call Mel at 800-448-2830 DUMP TRUCK DRIVER Dump Truck Exp. Only. Class A & B- CDL Lic. Required. Clean driving record. Good knowledge of N. Atl. area, Cert., Drug Free Workplace. Ins. & paid holidays for qualified person. Alan Densmore Inc., Suwanee, GA 770945-0800 FT/PT CLASS A-CDL DRIVERSto haul live chickens in Gainesville, GA. $1500 Sign On Bonus Must have 2 years verifiable experience, good MVR. Night Shift, local positions, home daily, benefits. Call Johnny, 770-530-3157 or 804-784-6166 Herbicide Applicator Gainesville-Winder.

Pesticide license and Class B CDL must be obtained within 90 days of hire. The position is f/t. Some down time in winter. Email resume to ssullivan@avcaquatic. com EOE-Females/Minorities/ Protected Veterans/ Individuals with Disabilities, DFWP

Stuff Furniture Antique Bed w/box spring & mattress.

High head board. $100 770-869-1543

SOFA Victoria Duncan Phyfe style. Mahogany rosette carvings, newly covered. Good Cond.

Circa 1940’s. Asking $200. 770-536-7191

Misc. For Sale (2) Vintage Slot Machines - made by Mills. Good Cond.

Air Hockey Table 4.5’x7 1/4’ In Good Cond. For more info call 770-861-8622 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter Works great. $145; 4 used tires $20 ea. 3 Coffee Makers ($40) for all; Hot Water Carpet Cleaner $125 4x6 Steel bed Trailer. $410.

706-693-0099 BUYING: “MASTER” Badges & Practice Round Tickets”. Paying top dollar. 770-266-6980 ONE LOT OF SCRUBS. Assorted colors & sizes.

Like New Condition. 11 pcs. $45. 678-997-3040 PIERCE’S PINE STRAW - We now have fresh fallen #1 Slash Straw @ $3.25 per bale. Picked up $3.50 per bale delivered. We also now have #1 Savannah Long Leaf Straw. Pickup up $4 per bale. $4.50 delivered. Order while it is new & beautiful.

We are looking for Professional Spreaders.

Call me for pricing at 678-617-0403 or Margie, 678-677-6352 Call for orders after 6pm.

Thank-You Pierce’s Pinestraw We will spread!!

1507 Martin Luther King Blvd. Gainesville, GA POWERED WHEEL CHAIR- 24 volt rechargeable system, raises & lowers, reclines, joy stick. Like New condition! $3500/obo.

706-693-4520 QUEEN SET- Brand New! $175. Still in plastic.

Delivery available. 470535-5751

Musical Instruments BASS GUITAR & TRIMMINGS: Ibanez (Maple & Cherry), New condition, Softshell case, Tuner, Fender Amplifier, Cables, Guitar Stand, Nice Music Stand.

Bought $800, played few months, got tinnitus, selling $450 Firm.

770 965 6160. OR 678 316 0607. South Hall Area.

UPRIGHT STUDIO PIANO 1966 Story & Clark, good cond., has been tuned, honey finish w/ upholstered bench. 706-809-2439

Pets & Supplies TOY POODLES, CKC, Shots/wormed.

(1) female, $450; (2) males $350. 706865-1640

Wanted To Buy Southhampton Falls HOA bi-annual Neighborhood Yard Sale. Fri/Sat, April 10/11th, 8 til-? Follow signs from 124 x332 Wanted To Buy: Timber of all kinds. Paying Top Dollar. 770-869-3909; 706-677-3585

Homes-Rentals ApartmentsUnfurnished

MYRTLE TERRACES Senior Independent Living Community 1bdrm from $660 2 bdrm from $765 Certain age & income restrictions apply!

Water, trash and electric included in rent Call today for more info 770-538-0928 HOUSES & APTS. Avail in Gainesville & Hall Co. The Simpson Co. 770-532-9911 Oakwood - 2/1.5, yard very safe, H/A $690$740. 678-357-5044

Business Property For Rent WAREHOUSES 5000 sf., $2396/mo; 2500 sf., $1248/mo. 770540-5339

Condominiums For Rent 2BR /2BA. $800/mo; w/gar. Lake Shadows.

404-216-6399

*Requires payment in advance.

Houses For RentUnfurnished No Rent Until April 1st Expires 3/31/15 3BR/2BA Homes Call Sun Homes 888-246-2803 Countrysidelake lanier.com EHO WAC

Mobile Homes For Rent N. HALL - 3BR/2BA $600/month.

770-540-0800

Roommates Wanted MEN- Be$t, Pvt home, Fur Br, All Priv + Xtras, Oakwd 770-530-1110

Roommate Wanted Furnished in-law ste. $600mo. Utils incld. On Lake Lanier. No pets, no smokers. 770-530-0009

Rooms For Rent $105/wk. Furnd, all utils & cable. W/D, kitchen.

678-862-3033/Randy

Homes & Real Estate Farms & Farm Land

BANKS CO: 8.8 Acre Horse Farm-Very well kept property with a 3/2BR, 2BA brick 1500 sq. ft. +/- home, 8 stalls in three barns, hay storage, shop, tack & feed rooms, 120 X 220 lighted arena, pastures fenced and cross fenced, close to Hwy 441 & Commerce. Priced below appraisal @ $242,000.

Bob Hennig Southern Heritage Land Co. 770-540-2243 Owner Agent

Recreation Boats & Marine

HABERSHAM CO.: 16.5 Acre Horse FarmHuge 4 BR, 2 1/2 BA double wide, 40 x 120 13 stall barn, customer boarders tack room, owner’s tack & feed room, bath in barn, 60 x 200 riding arena, 60 round pen, pastures are fenced and cross fenced, stream, tractor & hay storage bldg., 3000 gallon rain storage system. Great Opportunity to get into the horse business and generate additional income. $350,000.

Bob Hennig Southern Heritage Land Co. 770-540-2243

HALL CO.: 24.3 Acre Cattle/Horse Farm -located in Clermont 3BR, 2BA Ranch style partially finished daylight basement, 2 fp, sun room, Mtn View, Little River at back boundary, pasture, barn, shop, gated entrance, paved drive, spring, close to Hwy 129.

This is a very well kept property. $383,000.

Bob Hennig Southern Heritage Land Co. 770-540-2243

HALL CO.: 50.5 Acre Horse Farm- Lula area, 10 stall barn with full bath, office, shop, tack & feed room, hay & equip storage, 2 BR 2BA living space above barn, fp, screened porches, pastures fenced and cross fenced, creeks, rental mobile home, separate 2/stall barn with feed and tack room, 1/2 mi from GA 365. $750,000 Bob Hennig Southern Heritage Land Co. 770-540-2243 Owner Agent

WHITE CO.: 3.6 Acre Horse Farm- 2BR, 1BA log Home, back deck, fp, 4 stall barn, feed & tack room, small storage building, 5 mi to Helen, 7 mi to Cleveland, pasture is fenced and cross fenced, creek. $139,900. Bob Hennig Southern Heritage Land Co. 770-540-2243

WHITE CO.: Sautee area cabin in the mountains 2BR,2BA, upgraded kitchen w/granite counter tops. 1.9 Acres, two additional storage bldgs., fenced pet yard, a back porch to die for with mountain views, extremely well cared for. $135,500.

Additional 6 Acres next door available for $35,000.

Bob Hennig Southern Heritage Land Co. 770-540-2243

House For Sale-Hall County Beautiful large family home. Pool, porches, very secluded. Seasonal view of Lake. $429,000 Northwest of G,ville Come see. 770-5322291 or 678-230-1647.

House For SaleSurrounding 1998; 1 family;1610 sq. ft. House For Sale 145,000. This house has too many upgrades to list. 3 bedroom, 2 full baths, fireplace, 100% crawlspace, 2 car garage.

Located @ 2287 Howser Mill Rd in Dawsonville.

Contact Cleve Evans @ 706-265-9704

1985 McKee Craft 14’ Center Console Fishing Boat 35hp Johnson Shore Line Trailer Fish Finder, Trolling Motor, $2,100 OBO. 678-316-7875

Motorcycles HARLEY 2008 FatBoy Anniversary.

Copper/Black.

New tires, brakes & service. 17000 mi.Lots of standard chrome. Nice bike, needs a new home. Trade value is 9000, asking 8000 obo. I work evenings, so please leave a message @ 706-968-2637 HARLEY DAVIDSON 2008 Sportster 883. 3k miles, blk, Like New! $5200. 770-530-5809

KAYAK BOAT TRAILER Equipped for 3 Kayaks, 17.5’. Asking $1200.

770-532-9778 lve msg Single Slip Dock Good Condition $1000.00 OBO Ph. 678-696-5158

HONDA 1990 Gold Wing SE loaded, 24,500 miles, $6,500. Serious buyers only.

502 686-0191

RV’s/Travel Trailers

Sport Utility Vehicles

ALLEGRO BUS 2009.

43’, 4 slides, 425 eng., Less than 25k miles.

Non smoker, no pets.

Always housed when not on road. Chevy ‘06 Colorado Tow Vehicle included. 75k mi. $198k.

678-677-5339

Wheels Autos For Sale BUICK 1999 Regal LS. Tan w/leath int, 88k mi, Good Cond. $3700. 678769-8452 MERCURY 2007 Grand Marquis LS. Exc Cond.

Garaged, leath, new tires/batt. $7200. N. Hall, 727-742-8452 VW 2009 Jetta Sport Wgn. Silver, loaded, new tires. Great mpg. $11,990. 678-283-5898

Import Cars HYUNDAI 2011 Santa Fe, exc. cond., will trade for smaller vehicle.770-365-8084 MERCEDES 2000 E-320. AWD. 121k miles.

Loaded. Exc Cond. $5500. 404-910-2960 TOYOTA 1996 Camry. black, 4cyl, 140K miles, $2000. 706949-4688

TOYOTA 1996 Camry. lavender, 4cyl, 140K miles, $2,000. 706949-4688

Trucks CHEVY 1985 Custom 20 3/4 ton, straight body, good tires. Blown head gasket. $1200/ Firm.

678-343-8534

Vans DODGE 1997 Conv. Van. Ram 2500. 7 pass, V8, all power , cruise, 145k miles, Good Cond. , $3000 706-348-7796 NISSAN 1998 Quest, mini van, must sell, $1,500 obo. Call after 4pm. 770-771-2685.