The Paper June 4, 2015 Edition

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Mixed-use project eyed near hospital

BY JEFF GILL

Regional staff

The Hall County Planning Commission gave its OK Monday night to a proposed mixed-use development in what has become an emerging medical and health care community off Ga. 347/Friendship Road in South Hall.

Friendship Road Development’s application to rezone 8.7 acres off Friendship at Reunion Way, paving the way for 139 assisted- and independent-living units and a commercial/retail area, now goes to the Hall County Board of Commissioners on June 25.

The residential component also would include dining areas, administrative offices, activity rooms, storage facilities and parking.

The commercial area includes up to 10,000 square feet of retail and office space on about three acres.

The property is “sort of sandwiched be-

Hall County planning board recommending approval for commissioners’ June 25 meeting tween the (new) hospital growing on one end and existing commercial … on the other end,” said Brian Rochester of Rochester & Associates to the planning board.

On one side is the 100-bed Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, which opened April 1 off Friendship, just west of Ga. 211/ Old Winder Highway, and features an emergency room and other medical practices and services.

And to the west is a fast-growing retail area of Spout Springs Road in Braselton.

“We think this (proposed development) is a great use for that area,” Rochester said.

Brian Daniel, president of Carroll Daniel Construction in Gainesville, which has an ownership stake in the property, has said the

hospital was the catalyst for the proposed development.

The economic benefit in Hall County has already been felt from the hospital’s opening.

Hospital officials have said they spent an estimated $40 million with vendors and contractors in the regional service area, with more than 60 such businesses based in Hall County.

“An increase in complementary clinical and retail business is a natural progression from the opening of the hospital, and we expect more as the hospital grows,” said Anthony Williamson, president of NGMC Braselton.

One area of concern has been the development’s commercial aspect.

Hall County Planning Director Srikanth Yamala has said the proposal doesn’t quite fit the planned residential development zone that’s proposed because it’s likely that a larger portion of customers for the retail center will not live on site.

Rochester said the developer would agree to limit commercial uses, including for professional and medical offices, a pharmacy, bank, restaurants without a drive-thru window and a dry cleaner.

Also, “we’re (putting forth) a condition to require pedestrian connectivity between the residential parcel and the commercial component,” he said. “That ensures that the people who are there can walk into the commercial (area).”

The June 25 meeting will include a public hearing on the request. The meeting is set for 6 p.m. at the Hall County Government Center, located at 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville.

BRASELTON & JEFFERSON

Local farmers markets open later this week

HAPPY GRADUATES

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Mortarboards were airborne May 29 as East Jackson Comprehensive High School graduates celebrated at the end of commencement exercises. (Below, L) Nicholas Scott Sanders and Valedictorian Tristen Gaskins signaled their pleasure at Jackson County Comprehensive High School’s graduation on the morning of May 30. See Page 5A.

Produce is ripening on the vines and vendors are busy getting products ready for farmers market time.

The season begins this week in Braselton and Jefferson.

The 2015 Braselton Farmers Market opens at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 5, on Harrison Street near the Braselton Park in the town’s historic downtown.

Mayor Bill Orr will cut a “ceremonial melon” to open the market around 3:30 p.m.

Vendors selling Georgia-grown products or homemade food products are featured each week from 4-7 p.m. through Oct 16 in Braselton and in downtown Jefferson on Saturdays from 8-11 a.m. through September.

Slated to participate in the first farmers market of the Braselton season is Mike’s Comfort Foods, Tony Haberman, Herbs by Deb, Tasteful Creations, The Back Forty, Zocalo Salsa, Soul Puppy, Legacy Bakers, Sausage World and Finch Creek Farm. J& B Farms will also be on hand.

Parking is available in a vacant lot directly across from the market on Frances Street, at the Braselton Library on Brassie Lane off Davis Street and at Northeast Georgia Bank on Highway 53 after banking hours.

The theme for June will be Community Partners with Mayfield Dairy Farms featured on June 5, Road Atlanta on June 12 and YearOne on June 19.

Many downtown shops will be open during market hours.

“We encourage you to visit them while you are in downtown,” said Downtown Development Director Amy Pinnell, who notes a complete list of downtown businesses is available on the Business Directory page of www.downtownbraselton.com You can also follow on Facebook.

“The market opens at 4 p.m. and for the convenience of our vendors to properly set up and everyone’s safety, we respectfully ask attendees to not enter the market lot before 4,” said Pinnell.

In Jefferson, Main Street executive director Beth Laughinghouse encourages shoppers to come early for the best selections.

Hoschton set to add planning consultant services

By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

The Hoschton City Council’s June 1meeting began with executive session for the purpose of personnel: the possibility of hiring a planning and zoning employee.

Three items were placed on the consent agenda at the meeting. The first was consideration of the approval of an agreement for a zoning administration from Jerry Weitz & Associates.

Weitz attended the meeting and introduced himself to the group as a planning consultant who has been in the business since 2001. He has a history with Jackson County, and started working for the quad cities commission in 2003—Jefferson, Arcade, Pendergrass and Talmo. He said hehas worked for several of the cities in Jackson County, so he is familiar with the way things work.

“The agreement will basically cover all ad-

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ministration functions,” said Weitz. “Rezoning applications, special use permits, building permits, development plans, sign ordinance permits and so forth. If you all agree to hire my company, we will also work with Bureau Veritas coordinating with building inspections.”

Bureau Veritas considers itself to be a global leader in testing, inspection and certification, delivering services to help clients meet the growing challenges of quality, safety, environmental protection and social responsibility.

Councilman Scott Butler asked if Weitz’s role “is on the front end,” meaning from the time someone contacts his business who is thinking about building something on a certain piece of property, they will deal directly with him.

Weitz said that yes, his role is on the front end, but he directly deals with them until the tail end as well. He is with them during the

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entire process of zoning compliance.

Councilman Jim Cleveland made a motion to approve the proposed agreement for zoning administration from Weitz and place it on the consent agenda.

Mayor Theresa Kenerly said she would be thrilled to work with Weitz and his company moving forward.

The approval of professional services agreement for plan review, inspections, code enforcement and development inspections from Bureau Veritas was also placed on the consent agenda. Bureau Veritas has a partnership with Jackson County, and the company currently does building inspections for all of the unincorporated areas of the county.

Tim Inglis is the business development manager for the area, and Bureau Veritas takes on projects from the beginning until the end. Bureau Veritas maintains it is very strong on educating builders and openly communicating with them instead of telling them

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Community readies for grand reopening of Hoschon Depot See Page 4B what they have done wrong without helping them fix the problem. For those builders who are not up-to-date on code changes, Bureau Veritas is there to educate and update them.

Design is not something that Bureau Veritas does for builders, but they will inform them if they are going in the right direction.

As for the new sign for the Hoschton City Hall building, City Administrator and Clerk Jacqueline Crouse said she has spoken with

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The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

Hales family makes memorial donation to Sheriff ’s Office The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received an April 10 donation of a White’s handheld security scanner / metal detector for the use of screening individuals for weapons upon entering the Sheriff’s Office and jail facility.

“The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office greatly appreciates this donation, and would like to thank Mrs. Jean Hales Beck, Mrs. Teri Bell Hales and Mr. Ken Hales for their donation which will greatly assist the department with security measures,” said Sheriff Janis Mangum.

Bill Hales enjoyed metal detecting and was an authorized Whites Metal Detector distributor. The donated metal detector was one of the items he owned.

“We felt it a much better decision to donate to the Sheriff’s office to use rather than keep it,” said his mother Jean. “Bill would be pleased.

For The Paper

Elyse Davis of Georgia Power Company and Pat Merritt of Georgie EMC (far R) with Jackson County graduates Paul Brown, Brittany Caison, Tracy Jordan and Logan Propes. Not pictured is Amy Pinnell.

Five Jackson County participants graduate from Georgia Academy for Economic Development Jean Hales Beck, Teri Hales and Ken Hales made the presentation to Sheriff Janix Mangum in memory of Bill Hales, a United States Marines veteran and a distributor of Whites Mental Detectors.

POLICE REPORTS Missing woman located in Jackson Co. The Covington woman who was the subject of a search after her vehicle was found abandoned in Hoschton was located safe and unharmed in Jackson County last Friday afternoon.

The family of Smith has been advised of her wellbeing and said they were pleased to hear that she was well.

Sheriff Janis Mangum wishes to thank all law enforcement agencies who assisted in the search for Smith and the community for providing assistance during the search.

Sheriff Mangum said on May 29, “The search efforts, with everyone working together, led to the successful and rewarding conclusion today.”

The woman was held over the weekend on charges which may be dismissed with a medical evaluation expected to be conducted.

Falcons player facing charges of animal cruelty in dog death, released from team A 20-year-old staying at the Century at Mill Creek Apartments home of her Atlanta Falcons boyfriend reported to Gwinnett County Police that Prince Shembo had kicked and killed her dog.

On Sunday, April 19, Denicia Williams reported that Prince Shembo, 23, killed her Yorkie dog named Dior.

She said she left Shembo and the dog unattended on April 15 and returned to find Dior unresponsive. She took the dog to Duluth Animal Hospital for treatment but Dior died shortly after arrival there.

While she was talking on the phone with Shembo the following day, Shembo commented that he had kicked her dog. At this point, she ended their relationship.

The body of the deceased dog was taken to the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter to undergo a necropsy which was conducted on April 21. Tissue samples were sent to the University of Georgia for further testing.

While awaiting the results, the lead investigator conducted a few telephone interviews with Shembo.

The final results were completed on Thursday, May 28, and showed that Dior had significant internal injuries and the cause of death was blunt force trauma.

Because of the inconsistencies of the suspect’s account of what happened and the results of the necropsy, a warrant for aggravated cruelty to animals was obtained today for Shembo.

Details of the warrant say that the dog had a fractured rib, fractured liver, abdominal hemorrhage, thoracic hemorrhage, extensive bruising / hemorrhage in muscles in front leg and shoulders, head trauma, hemorrhage and edema in lungs, hemorrhage between the esophagus and trachea and hemorrhage in the left eye with internal injuries.

The lead investigator has contacted the Atlanta Falcons to inform the team of the warrant and the team released Shembo.

The Board of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development announces Jackson County graduates from the 2015 Region 5 Multi-Day Training Program.

Graduates were Paul Brown, Brittany Caison, Tracy Jordan, Logan Propes and Amy Pinnell.

Barrow County graduates at the May 27 ceremony included Dan Schultz and Mark Dastous. Also graduating was Chris Maddox and Steven Smith.

Class participants represented a number of professional and non-professional economic development fields, including elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators, and social service providers from 12 counties in Region 5 Georgia. The Academy provided each of the graduates an opportunity to gain a unique understanding of the complexities of economic and community development on the local, regional and state levels.

Created in 1993, the Academy assembles a cross section of economic development professionals and resources to provide this training in all twelve service delivery regions in Georgia.

The Board of Directors of the Academy represent public and private economic development organizations and agencies from across Georgia. Since its organization, the Academy has provided training for thousands of professional and non-professional economic developers around the state, and since 1998 the Academy has been offered annually. Georgia EMC and Georgia Power provide facilitators for the program, and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs provides staff support to this important program.

“One of the goals for the multi-day regional Academies is to encourage multicounty cooperation,” says Corinne Thornton, Director of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development.

“Many times the participants discover the issues facing their community are

Barrow County has four graduates

Barrow County graduates at the May 27 ceremony included Dan Schultz and Mark Dastous. Also, not pictured were graduates Chris Maddox and Steven Smith. the same as those facing other communities in their region, and can then combine limited resources to address the issue.”

The Academy’s multi-day program, taught one day a month over a fourmonth period, includes training in the basics of economic and community development, plus specialized segments on business recruitment and retention, tourism product development, downtown development, planning and other essentials for community success.

In addition, the curriculum features specific leadership skills such as con-

New Jackson County Board of Elections and Voter Registration member Margaret “Peg” Sheffield of Hoschton was sworn in May 20 as a member of the Jackson County Board of Elections and Voter Registration by David Motes, Chief Judge of the Superior Court of Jackson County. She will serve the remainder of Laurren Stover’s remaining term which expires June 30, 2017.

World War II memorabilia back to owner On June 1, the victim of a March residential burglary traveled to the Gwinnett County Police Department and met with the detective.

During the meeting, the victim was given back his grandfather’s valuable World War II memorabilia in addition to some of the other stolen items. The victim was truly grateful to have these valuables returned.

The detective in this case has several suspects identified in this and other cases related to burglaries, stolen vehicles and stolen items.

BEST KEPT SECRET in Hall & Forsyth County

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5540 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch, GA 30542

sensus building, ethics in public service, collaborative leadership and other segments needed for effective community leadership in economic development.

Local elected officials may receive certification training credits through the Association County Commissioners of Georgia and the Georgia Municipal Association for completion of this program.

The next Region 5 Georgia Academy for Economic Development will begin in February 2016. Contact Kathy Papa at 770-362-7078 or by email at Kathy. papa@dca.ga.gov

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The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

Barrow’s Lanier Technical College campus celebrated Nearly two years after many of the same state and local leaders celebrated the groundbreaking for the Sims Academy and Lanier Technical College campuses on Austin Road, they were joined Monday by Gov. Nathan Deal in a ceremony marking the completion of the new Lanier Tech campus.

The building actually began holding classes in January, and has now completed its first semester.

The numerous speakers at the ceremony talked about what has already been accomplished, and how much more will be accomplished in years to come.

“Colleges mean more than the bricks and mortar, it’s made up of students, instructors,” said LTC President Ray Perrin. “We’re not just her to celebrate a building, but the college and the people who make us this college.

“For generations to come, the roots of the tree that has been planted here will continue to provide good fruit to help Barrow thrive.”

Gov. Deal talked at length about all of the benefits the building and the whole of the technical college system provide and will continue to provide for generations.

He stressed the impor-

tance of education as being one of the “strategic uses” of the limited money that the state had during the recession, and now an even greater focus now that Georgia is roaring back to life.

“We decided that the best way to get out of (the recession) was to grow our way out of it,” he said.

And one of the ways to grow was to provide qualified employees for jobs already open. Deal said that the technical colleges do just that, offering programs in indemand fields like welding and even film.

The Governor also praised the unique partnership that enabled Barrow to build a better college campus to better serve the students, from the City of Winder first providing funds for the college’s initial building in 1999, to the support from the Barrow Board of Education (which donated the acreage for the campus) and Board of Commissioners and other organizations in the area.

With that support already there, it was the state’s approval of a $16 million bond package that finally allowed the campus to open.

“This county has a long history of being understanding of education as the future of the county,” Deal said.

“It’s still bright and getting brighter.”

Another speaker put the

Zac Taylor Regional staff

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal and wife Sandra joined in cutting the ribbon for the new Barrow County campus of Lanier Technical College. State Rep. Terry England, Barrow County Chamber of Commerce president Tommy Jennings, Technical System of Georgia commissioner Gretchen Corbin and Lanier Tech president Ray Perren participated in the June 1 celebration during which Rep. England learned the campus’ 100-seat lecture is being named in his honor. new building in more technical terms.

“This is 67,000 square feet of learning opportunities for our students in this community,” said Commissioner Gretchen Corbin of the Technical College System of

Georgia.

And some of that square footage will be dedicated to the elected official who played a key role in getting the college in the first place: State Rep. Terry England of Auburn.

England spoke about God’s timing in getting the bond package approved

for the campus years following the first attempt, and was then honored by Campus Dean Lisa Maloof, Perren and Board Chair Allyson Summerour with a 100-seat lecture hall being named the Terry England Lecture Hall.

“This is to honor a dedicated public servant,” Maloof said.

And that’s what Monday’s ceremony was, a celebration of the building, the students and staff of the college and those who made it all possible.

England may have summed it up best by saying, “It’s a great day in Barrow County.”

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By Zac Taylor

Regional staff

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Zac Taylor Regional staff

A large crowd gathered for Monday’s ceremony to mark the grand opening of the new Barrow County campus of Lanier Technical College. The campus is on Austin Road in Winder.

Community & Southern Bank acquiring some of CertusBank’s assets Community & Southern Bank is positioned to buy nearly $764 million in deposits and nearly $230 million in loans related to 15 EasleyS.C.-based CertusBank locations in Georgia and Florida.

Community & Southern Bank CEO Pat Frawley said the transaction will increase the bank’s market share throughout Georgia and places it into new markets, including Columbus and Macon and Jacksonville, Fla. “I am very pleased to welcome our new CertusBank clients to CSB,” said Frawley. “Offering sound financial solutions combined with the utmost integrity and exceptional banking expertise is the foundation upon which CSB was formed and we are proud to have the opportunity to serve our new clients and our new markets.”

Based in Atlanta, CSB currently operates more than 40 branches in metro Atlanta and across Georgia’s northern, eastern and western counties. Community & Southern has locations in Braselton, Winder, Statham and Buford. The bank has more than $3.6 billion in assets, more nearly $2.9 billion in deposits and has more than 600 employees.

In 2011, CertusBank officials, backed by $500 million in investment capital, said they intended to continue to pursue “prudent, strategic opportunities” to expand by buying additional banks in other markets. At that time, CertusBank had 32 branches in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

In November of 2012, Certus Bank acquired the two branches of Hometown Community Bank in November of 2012 and has locations

in Jefferson and Commerce.

The Hometown Community Bank locations were later closed.

CertusBank has been streamlining its properties, departments and workforce as federal regulators continuing to take a hard look at operations.

John Poelker, chairman, president and CEO of CertusBank, who joined in bank in April of 2014, resigned in mid-May for health reasons to deal with a health concern. When he came onboard, three top executives were terminated CertusBank had been un-

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der the review of federal regulations related to capital ratio issues. While progress was being made, the financial losses continued, with the bank losing $33.5 million in the first quarter, according to reports filed with bank regulators.

Some of CertusBank’s South Carolina locations are being obtained by Bank of North Carolina in High Point while a Louisville, Ga., bank is securing the CertusBank assets in Savannah and Rincon while Morris Bank in Dublin will acquire the bank’s Warner Robins’ assets.

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Buses will be running through Jefferson at 5:30pm to pick up kids Age 4 to teens each day for VBS. No Pre-Registration is required.

6:30pm Meal, followed by VBS @ 7pm.

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The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

OBITUARIES Helen Day Baxter

Died May 30, 2015 Helen Day Baxter, 89, of Winder, died Saturday, May 30, 2015.

She was a member of Chapel Christian Church.

She was a nurse at Barrow County Hospital for many years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cliff and Montine Deaton Day; brothers, Jimmy, Buddy, Harold and Lonnie Day and sisters, Irene and Lois Day. Survivors include her brothers, Jack Day and Lewis Day, both of Winder; her sisters, Ruby Nell Helton and Carol Greeson, both of Winder; numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, June 2, 2015, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with the Rev. Jim Stephens officiating. Interment followed in Barrow Memorial Gardens.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, June 4, 2015

Sandra Ann Bentley

Died May 21, 2015 Sandra Ann Bentley, 71, of Winder, died Thursday, May 21, 2015.

Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA, 30548, www.lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-6540966.

The Paper, June 4, 2015

Grant L. Dooley

Died May 30, 2015 Grant L. Dooley, 66, of Winder, died Saturday, May 30, 2015.

He was a member of Winder First United Methodist Church and the Seekers Sunday school class. He was a pharmacist for Jefferson Drugs and earned his Bachelors of Science degree in pharmacy from the University of Georgia. He continued to be a huge Georgia Bulldog fan. He loved his community and had been a past member of the Jaycees and was a square dance caller for Jug Tavern Squares and he called on occasion for the Classic City Squares. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lamar and Dorothy Hendrix Dooley.

Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Phyllis H. Dooley; daughters, Jennifer Twitty (John) and Maurnie Thomson, both of Winder; sisters, Janice Medlock (Arnold) of Columbia, S.C., and Lynn Powell of Woodstock; grandchildren, Gabriel, Joshua, Michael, Jacob, Emma and Rebecca; a niece; and a nephew. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2015, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with the Rev. Terry Tippens officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Winder First United Methodist Church.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, June 4, 2015

John Wesley Hays

dence following an extended illness.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2015, in the chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Barrow Memorial Garden in Winder. The Rev. David Simpson will officiate.

Born Feb. 5, 1941, in Alabama, he was a son of the late UL Hays and Vivian Lowery Hays. He was retired from Thrall Car as a production planner. He was also president and then treasurer of the Mount Shores Condominium for several years until his illness. He was a Sunday school teacher at a Baptist church in Knoxville, Tenn., where he also graduated from high school and the University of Tennessee. At the time of his death, he was a member of Lanier Christian Church. He was also preceded in death by his son, James Wesley Hays; and grandson, Derek Hays.

Survivors include his wife, Bonnie Mae Hays; children, Keith Hays and wife Sally of Chattanooga, Tenn., Lisa Sims and husband Lee of Sevierville, Diane Maddox and husband Miles of Statham, ED Draher of Snellville and Tom Draher and wife Brenda of Gainesville; sister, Betty Adair and husband Lewis of Leesburg, Fla.; sister, Linda Fredrick and husband Dave of Clinton, Tenn.; brother, Barry Hays and wife Dorothy of Covington, Ga.; 12 grandchildren; and 14 greatgrandchildren.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, Gainesville The Paper, June 4, 2015

Billie Dove Hill

Died May 28, 2015 Billie Dove Hill, 79, of Auburn, died Thursday, May 28, 2015.

Mrs. Hill was a faithful follower of Christ. Her hobbies included sewing, arts and crafts. Mrs. Hill was loved and cared for by her daughter Cathy and granddaughter Daniele.

Survivors include her son, Jimmy Hill and wife Sharon of Buford; daughters, Vickie Hill Harris and husband John of Gainesville and Cathy Gentry and husband Daniel of Auburn; sister Mary Evelyn Saxton; grandchildren Melissa Bowen, Tonya Harris, Chris Hill, Bud Harris and Daniele Gentry; nine great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husband Arnold James Hill Sr.; parents Ray and Edna Saxton; brother, Jerry L. Saxton; and sister, Nell Green.

Graveside services were held Sunday, May 31, 2015, at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens in Buford with the Rev. Farrell Presley officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, June 4, 2015

Died May 30, 2015 John Wesley Hays, 74, of Gainesville, died Saturday, May 30, 2015, at his resi-

Susan Claire Hovey

Died May 27, 2015 Susan Claire Hovey, 67, of

Winder, died Wednesday, May 27, 2015.

She was a native of Decatur, Ill., he had also lived in St. Louis, Mo., and Ft. Myers, Fla. She was vice president of her father’s company, O’Hare Flight Kitchens, and more recently worked for Rock Tenn Corporation. She was of the Christian faith.

She was a member of the Winder Moose Lodge and a loving dear friend to many.

She was reunited in heaven with her parents, John and Margaret Brady Hovey; and a brother, Dennis Hovey.

Survivors include her brothers, John Hovey (Karen) and Kevin Hovey, both of Little Rock, Ark.; sister, Mary Wanat (Daniel) of Germantown, Tenn.; nieces and nephews, John C. Hovey (Merisha), Johnathon Hovey, Samuel Hovey, Rebecca Wanat, Matthew Wanat, John L. Hovey and Aimee Penge(Trigger); several great-nieces and –nephews; and a beloved sister-in-law, Marion Sutarik (David). Her beloved dogs, Patty Cake and Cat, also survive.

The family will be having a funeral service at a later date in Decatur, Ill., at Graceland Funeral Home.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, June 4, 2015

Ruby Louise Fraiser McDaniel

Died May 30, 2015 Ruby Lois Fraiser McDaniel, 87, of Flowery Branch, died Saturday, May 30, 2015, at her residence.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, June 2, 2015, in the chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home with interment following in Memorial Park Cemetery. The Rev. Darryl Dale officiated.

Born Feb. 13, 1928, in Gwinnett County, she was a daughter of also the late Henry and Sally Elizabeth Johnson Fraiser. She was retired from Ziemans Manufacturing and was a member of Friendship Community Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Leon McDaniel; and grandsons, Kenneth Cantrell and Chad McDaniel.

Survivors include by her daughters and son-in-law, Sara and Jimmy McAdams, Barbara Sue King and Sheila and Jeff Wagner, all of Flowery Branch; son and daughter-in-law, Larry and Kathy McDaniel of Flowery Branch; grandsons and wives, Shane and Tonya Daniel of Gillsville and Blake and Holly McDaniel of Gainesville; granddaughters and spouses, Lynn Pocock of Braselton, Lisa Daws of Hiawassee, Jill and Joey Martin of Chestnut Mountain and Shaunda and David Harper of Braselton; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and seven greatgreat-grandchildren; sister, Florine Elrod of Flowery Branch; sister-in-law, Carol Bannister of Savannah; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, Gainesville The Paper, June 4, 2015

CHURCH NEWS Center Union Baptist Church on Ednaville Road in Braselton will host a singing beginning at 6 p.m. on June 7 featuring Connie Perry. Contact Calvin at 706-654-3674. sss New Beginnings Pentecostal Outreach youth will hold teen camp week June 11-13 for which the May 30 fundraiser car wash was held at Beef O’Brady’s in Jefferson.

June 8-10 Vacation Bible School will be from June 8-10 with food served at 6:30 p.m. and activities beginning at 7. Journey of the Map is the theme of this year’s Vacation Bible School and is for ages 4 to teens. Buses will pick up children throughout Jefferson. No preregistration is required. sss First Baptist Church of Jefferson is concluding Vacation Bible School from 5:30-8 p.m. on June

4.

The FBCJ Preschool is taking applications now for August 2015.

The Senior Adults will have their monthly luncheon on June 9 at 11:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

The middle school teenagers will meet on June the 10 for lunch with the Youth Pastor at noon.

The church food bank is open from 1-3 p.m.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The Connect Run Club will continue to meet on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. during the summer.

A new sermon series entitled “Becoming Real” will begin on June 7.

Contact the church for more on any of these events. Michael Helms is the Senior Pastor.

The church is located at 246 Washington St., in Jefferson. Visit www. fbcjefferson.org. sss Center Union Baptist

Church in Braselton will be having Vacation Bible School from 7-9 p.m. on June 1-5. The theme is Bible Blast to The Past. All ages from little ones to teens are invite to come out and learn, worship and enjoy the Lord. sss Hoschton United Methodist Church announces Vacation Bible School will be from 6:308:30 p.m. on July 13-17.

First Sunday worship service is at 11 a.m. on June 7 with communion service. Sunday school is at 10 a.m. with the children meeting in church classrooms and adults in the fellowship hall.

Women of Faith will meet at 2:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall to assemble health kits to be delivered to the North Georgia Conference for ministry in Haiti. Items needed include gallon size Zip-loc bags, hand towels, washcloths,

Timothy Dale Maloch

Died May 27, 2015 Timothy Dale Maloch, 46, of Winterville, died Wednesday, May 27, 2015.

A NASCAR fan, he enjoyed music and the guitar was his favorite instrument. He was an outdoors person and loved playing horseshoes, working as a roofer and spending time with his family. Overall, Tim loved life.

Survivors include his mother, Martha Maloch of Winterville; sons, Devon King and Timbo Gilleland, both of Hoschton; daughters, Kelly Maloch of Carnesville, Beth Maloch of Jefferson and Taylor Gilleland of Hoschton; brothers, Ronnie Maloch and wife Kim of Statham, Michael Maloch of Gillsville, Neal Maloch and wife Tracey of Cleveland and Jamie Maloch and wife Heather of Cleveland; sisters, Rhonda Skinner of Pendergrass, Sherrie Crawley of Nicholson and Dana Maloch of Cornelia; grandchildren Kaylie Maloch, Hayden Maloch, Waylon McConnell and Emerson Roberts; nephew, Kaleb Howington; and a host of other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Maloch Sr.; and brother, Phil Maloch.

Funeral services were held Sunday, May 31, 2015, at Lawson Funeral Home with the Rev. Bo Nix officiating. Interment was held at Walnut Fork Baptist Church Cemetery in Hoschton.

Donations will be accepted by the funeral home to cover funeral expenses.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, June 4, 2015

Edward Frank Novak

Died May 29, 2015 Edward Frank Novak, 74 of Bethlehem, died Friday, May 29, 2015.

Born Nov. 9, 1940, in Chicago, Ill., he was a son of the late Frank and Mary Nowakowski. A graduate of Gage Park High School, he was in the United States Army and served in Germany. He retired as a financial planner with American Express. He was a member of Bethlehem First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Men and Shared Journey Sunday school class. He was certified as a lifetime Master Gardener by the University of Georgia and loved being the preschool hero “Farmer Ed” for all the children at the church, sharing his love for gardening.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Lora Smith Novak; son, Marc Edward Novak of Athens; sister, Pat Drop (Paul); and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service was held Tuesday, June 2, 2015, at Bethlehem First United Methodist Church with interment following in Barrow Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Garden of Hope Memorial Garden Fund at Bethlehem First United Methodist Church.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder

combs, nail files or fingernail clippers, large bath soap, toothbrushes, adhesive plastic strip sterile bandages and one dollar bills.

Homecoming Service will be July 19 with Richard Chewning, District Superintendent, as featured speaker in the 11 a.m. service. Lunch in the fellowship hall will follow the service. sss What will you be doing June 8- 12 from 9:30 a.m. until noon? A lot of your friends will be at Hamilton Mill Presbyterian Church getting their VBS on.

This year, the theme for Vacation Bible School is “Hometown Nazareth: Where Jesus was a Kid.”During the week, visit with Jesus’ mother Mary every day and learn Jesus’ trade, carpentry. Children will work with beads, textiles and oils and write a little bit of Hebrew. The focus will be on helping kids in Haiti, playing outrageous games, singing joyful songs and

The Paper, June 4, 2015 Paulete Ann Oatley Died May 30, 2015 Paulette Ann Oatley, 68, of Statham, died Sunday May 30th, 2015.

She was the daughter of the late Verdell and Ruby Marlow. .Survivors include her son, Jimmy Cook of Statham; daughters, Betty Susie Crick of Bethlehem and Dorothy Daniels of Commerce; brothers, Eddie Marlow of Maysville and Ray Marlow of Kannapolis, N.C.; sister, Brenda Yuhas of Danielsville; eight grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

Memorial services were held Wednesday, June 3, 3015, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home.

Ivie Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, June 4, 2015

Darlene Pendley

Died May 28, 2015 Darlene G. Pendley, 49, of Ellijay, died Thursday May 28, 2015.

Born Aug. 12, 1965, in Braselton, she was a daughter of LeRoy Gooch of Maysville and the late Bertha Hightower Gooch. She was employed by Jackson County and was a member of the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Becky Gooch; and mother-inlaw, Muriel Pendley.

Survivors, in addition of her father, include her husband, Raymond Pendley, children, Jason and Amanda Petty John, Bobby and Melissa Pendley, Jill and Jerry Hyde, Kelly Pendley, all of Ellijay, and Whitney Murphy of Cornelia; brother, Mike Gooch of Talmo; sister, Vickie Robinson of Gillsville; father-in-law, Theola Ray Pendley; seven grandchildren ; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services wwere held Sunday, May 30, 2015, in the chapel of Bernhardt Funeral Home with the Rev. Lonnie Wright officiating.

Interment was in the Yukon cemetery.

Bernhardt Funeral Home, Ellijay The Paper, June 4, 2015

Loretta Jean Roberts

Died May 27, 2015 Loretta Jean Roberts, 43, of Hull, died Wednesday, May 27, 2015.

She was a daughter of the late Namon Columbus and Grace Luellen Watts Nicholson and was a homemaker.

Survivors include her husband, Dennis E. Roberts Jr.; son, Jonathan D. Roberts, ofHull; sisters, Charlene Gosss of Hull, Melissa Nicholson of Jefferson; and a brother, Russell Nicholson of Raburn.

Memorial services were held Tuesday, June 2, 2015, at Ivie Funeral Home Chapel in Danielsville.

Ivie Funeral Home, Danielsville The Paper, June 4, 2015

Ronnie Terrell Smith

Died May 27, 2015 Ronnie Terrell Smith, 66, of Commerce, died Wednes-

enjoying yummy snacks.

The registration fee is $5 per child, maximum $15 per family. To register, go to www.hamiltonmillpc. com sss Rather than just providing something for children, Arbor Pointe Church in Hoschton wants to provide something for the whole family this summer. You’re invited to Vacation Family School on June 28, July 12 and July 26. Each night, families will enjoy a meal

South

day, May 27, 2015.

Born in Commerce, he was a son of the late Rogers and Faith Dixon Smith. He was a member of Maysville Baptist Church and was a United States Army veteran. He was retired from Jackson County EMS and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

Funeral services were held Sunday, May 31, 2015, in the chapel of Little-Ward Funeral Home in Commerce with the Rev. Jeff Seymour and Mr. Alan Johnston officiating. Interment followed in Jackson Memorial Gardens.

Memorial donations may be made to Maysville Baptist Church Outdoorsman’s Ministry, 8875 Hwy 82 Spur, Maysville, GA 30558.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce The Paper, June 4, 2015

Gary Eugene Snider

Died May 28, 2015 Gary Eugene Snider, 51, of Winder, died Thursday, May 28, 2015.

Born May 7, 1964, he was a native of Long Beach, Calif., and he was of the Baptist faith and a member of Union Baptist Church. He was a veteran of Dessert Storm serving in Iraq and he retired from the United States Air Force. He was a member of Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion.

Survivors include his wife, Daleene Hall Snider; sons, Phillip Snider of Stockbridge and Joshua Snider of Winder; daughter, Leslie Maples (Wayne) of Carrolton; parents, Gary and Patricia Hughson Snider of Stockbridge; brothers, Fred Snider of Winder and Charlie Snider of Hampton; sister, Helen Snider of Stockbridge; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, June 3, 2015, at Union Baptist Church in Winder. Interment followed in Georgia National Cemetery in Canton. Memorials may be made to Union Baptist Church.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, June 4, 2015

Katherine D. Stansell

Died May 31, 2015 Katherine D. Stansell, 54, died May 31, 2015.

A native of Houston, County. Mrs. Stansell was the daughter of the late Harold Davis. She was employeed with ER Snell.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday June 4, 2015, at Winder First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Terry Tippens officiating.

Survivors include her husband, Jeff Stansell; children, Kristen (Jason) Stott and Megan Stansell; brother, Scott Davis; grandchild, Jackson Stott; and mother and stepfather; Judy (Lee) Bos. Memorials may be made to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate 4840 Roswell Road Building D, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30342.

Smith Memory Chapel, Winder The Paper, June 4, 2015

together and children will grow and learn through games, crafts and Biblical stories. Meanwhile, parents will grow to understand more about building a Christ-centered family environment.

Online registration is available at arborpointe. org/signup.

The church holds weekly worship service is at 10:30 a.m. Adult Sunday School and a youth class are offered before the service; children’s Sunday School and nursery are offered.

Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematory

Sparks Bowers/ Funeral Director

The Area’s Only Full Service Funeral Home

Celebrating 15 years of dedicated & professional service in South Hall and the surrounding communities.

4121 Falcon Pkwy, Flowery Branch Located just 1/4 mile North of Atlanta Falcon Training Complex

770-967-5555

GRADUATION

The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

5A

congratulations to EJCHS CLASS of 2015 congratulations to JCCHS CLASS of 2015 Marine Brad Phillips, who is stationed at Camp Pendleton, surprised his brother, Cody Abernathy, by showing up at his graduation from East Jackson Comprehensive High School on Friday night. (Below) When it was time to switch the tassels, there were lots of smiles. The senior class earned scholarships totaling more than $1.2 million and 109 seniors were eligible for the HOPE scholarship. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

Jeffrey Anderson Kitchens congratulated by Principal Pete Jones.

The 2015 graduating class of Jackson County Comprehensive High School was awarded diplomas by Superintendent April Howard and members of the Jackson County Board of Education shook hands with the graduates during the May 30 morning ceremony. Among the graduates was Casey Ann Hitzges whose parents, Assistant Superintendent Jamie Hitzges and West Jackson Intermediate assistant principal Laurie Hitzges who will be in a leadership role in Hall County next year. More at ClickThePaper.com

Valedictorian Ryan Robinett

Salutatorian Jesse Fulcher

Valedictorian Tristen Gaskins

Whisper Whitlock performs her song “These Days” which will be available.

Salutatorian Abigail Hensley

Three schools changing principals

Jackson County Schools plans for growth of digest The Jackson County Board of Education approved a tentative budget proposal which reflects the good news that property values are moving toward some recovery.

Prior to the East Jackson Comprehensive High School graduation ceremonies on May 29, the school board got some welcome news from Superintendent April Howard.

“There is some really good news from the tax appraisal office,” said Howard, who noted that Chief Appraiser Allan Sargent indicates the tax digest is seeing an increase of 8 percent to 9 percent before appeals which must be filed by June 12.

Howard said she is confident in assurances from Sargent that 7 percent would be a comfortable margin to figure into budget planning for the school system, but she and Assistant Superintendent Jamie Hitzges, who was unable to attend the meeting, are erring on the conservative side and basing the budget recommendation on a 3 percent to 4 percent increase in the digest.

With a projected millage rate of 19.276, the school system would expect to collect $26.4 million in ad valorem taxes toward the $23.3 million in local dollars needed.

With state dollars anticipated of $33.7 million, Jackson County Schools would have

total revenues of $85,575,315.

With expenditures of $85.5 million – with the largest line item being the $41.3 million for instruction, the system could add $3 million to its fund balance.

“That is good news,” said chairman Michael Cronic.

“That’s the best news we’ve had in years,” said board member Tim Brooks.

Howard said the additional ad valorem taxes will finance the additional teachers needed at both high schools as well as schools on the west side where class sizes have grown larger than desirable.

“We will also be adding $300,000 to instruction supplies,” said Howard, noting that allocations for those supplies have not been available to teachers for several years.

Additional transportation costs are also figured into the budget.

“All in all, it’s very good news,” said Howard.

The required advertisement of the tentative budget will be under way this week.

In other business at the called meeting, the transfer of several principals was voted on along with a number of other personnel actions.

Howard noted discussions had taken place with the faculty, PTOs and school councils at the schools which will see a change in leadership.

Resa Brooksher, who had been the principal at North Jackson Elementary, will be

HOSCHTON

Continued from 1A a potential installer who said he believes the project can be completed without any problems. However, Mayor Kenerly said the decision should not be made as of right now until the city is absolutely certain about what type of sign and what company to choose. Things are moving in the right direction, and a decision should be made very soon.

A consideration of the approval of the Georgia safe sidewalks trip hazard removal proposal was tabled.

Councilman Jim Higginbottom, also a resident of The Village at Hoschton, checked the sidewalks in that neighborhood. They are very uneven and unsafe, due to large tree roots protruding from the ground. The worry is that someone could injure themselves, meaning the city would officially be liable. A handful of quotes have been received, one at around $3,000 and a full and complete job at approximately $4,500.

There are several issues at hand—by cutting the roots, the trees will eventually die.

That is an issue because of aesthetics—residents enjoy the shade and beauty that trees offer. However, the larger the tree grows, the

returning to South Jackson Elementary where she spent 18 years as a teacher.

West Jackson Primary principal Linda Bell, who was to be going to Curriculum & Instruction at the Central Office, is instead going to serve as principal at North Jackson Elementary.

Howard said Bell has “a heart for schools and a heart for kids” so the fit is a better one.

South Jackson Elemnetary principal Todd Nickelson is going to fill the position at the Central Office. Howard said Nickelson has a broader span of expertise which will serve the system well in Curriulum & Instruction.

Personnel actions New hires Effective 2015-2016 school year unless otherwise noted Ernest Coley, 8th Grade, EJMS Rebecca Grogan, API/Instructional Coach, MES James Hasty, 7th Grade Teacher, EJMS Sherome Heaven, Spanish Teacher, JCCHS Erin King, CTAE Teacher, WJMS Shannon Lawrence, CTAE Teacher, JCCHS Amy Nelms, Special Education Paraprofessional, SJES Kristie Overstreet, 7th Grade Teacher, EJMS Sadie Staples, Special Education Teacher, EJMS Leslie Teague, Special Education Teacher, WJES Jessie Wood, 8th Grade

Decision delayed on sidewalk repair options inside The Village at Hoschton more problems they will cause. It is also very expensive to cut large trees.

Councilman Cleveland said his concern is that the residents would want replacement trees and would expect the city to take care of that expense. Councilman Scott Butler said he does not mind spending the $4,500 to make the repairs to the sidewalk, but he said that he would want to go beyond that to ensure the problem never comes back.

“It is like a small cavity in your tooth,” said Butler. “You want to get it fixed before it gets bigger and becomes and even bigger problem. There is enough documentation out there that proves this point regarding the trees.”

Mayor Kenerly suggested that decision be tabled until the council and homeowner’s association for The Village at Hoschton come up with something that residents feel good about.

Teacher, ElMS Resignations/Terminations Wes King, Custodian, MES Tammy Lott, Teacher, EJMS Gwen McGhee, Para Professional, EJES Rachel Muldrow, GSES Dana Phillips, Bus Driver, MES Jessica Sanders, Counselor, JCCHS Natalie Smith, Social Studies Teacher, JCCHS Lisa Simmons, 25 percent Dual Enrollment Teacher, JCCHS Jennifer Tucker, Teacher, NJES Elie Viviant, 50 percent Teacher JCCHS

Transfers Effective 2015-2016 school year unless otherwise noted Stacey Bailey, Bookkeeper, WJPS to GSES Linda Bell, Curriculum & Instruction, System to Principal, NJES Cindy Benton, Special Education Teacher, EJMS to EJCHS Resa Brooksher, Principal, NJES to SJE Mishea Dean, Intervention Specialist, NJES to API/ Instructional Coach, NJES Carolyn Gaines, Custodian, WJPS to WJES Patricia Gerald, Custodian, WJPS to WJES Katherine Krebs, 4th Grade Teacher, GSES to 3-5 Math Teacher, SJES

Todd Nickelsen, Principal, SJES to Curriculum & Instruction, System Rose Odom, Bookkeeper, GSES to Finance Clerk, System Angela Parrott, Custodian, WJPS to WJMS Danielle Purdue, NJES/ JCCHS, SLP to EJES, SLP Lauren Turner, Receptionist, WJPS to Registrar, WJES Donna Wilson, Teacher, GSES to Instructional Coach, GSES Josh Whitworth, JCCHS, CTAE Young Farmer to EJCHSI Young Farmer Retirements Jean Melio, Bus Driver

TRUSTED David Williamson

Cap Rates: What they are and where they are heading!

T h e P o w e r To P e r f o r m

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

For commercial real estate the term capitalization rate, better known as the cap rate, is one of the key measures that can define the attractiveness of an income producing property!

The cap rate is simply calculated by taking the net operating income of a building, or the cash flow after expenses (NOI), and dividing that number by the cost of the building. If for example the NOI of a building is $100,000 and the price of the building $1,000,000 then the cap rate will be $100,000/$1,000,000 or 10%.

Typically the more attractive an area is considered the lower the cap rate will be. If for example that same property in the example above was in a 'better' neighborhood with a value of $2,000,000 with the same NOI of $100,000 the cap rate would drop to 5%.

A general rule of thumb when looking at a property is that you would like your borrowing costs to be below the cap rate of the building that you are buying. For example it would be desirable that if you were buying a 5% cap rate building that your borrowing costs be less than that number.

Today, however, particularly in 'hot' markets like New York City, the presence of a cap rate above the rate to borrow is not always the case.

For expert advice call your Trusted Norton Real Estate advisor, Norton is the largest, oldest, strongest diversified Commercial Acreage broker in North Georgia. We have the power to perform for you.

NortonCommercial.Com Commercial Real Estate 678.776.2312 dwilliamson@nortoncommercial.com

Thursday, June 4, 2015

forum

6A

Celebrating graduates

M

y friend, Coleen Ivey, received an honorary diploma from Gainesville High School recently. At 88, she has about 70 years seniority on most high school seniors.

In the energy department, I would say they rank about even. Coleen Ivey is a relentless ball of energy.

There was not a speech for the honorary grads, which included Sen. Butch Miller and retired educator John Davis. But what would you say to an 88-year-old graduate? I decided I would try.

Today, my friends, I look at this most interesting class. An educator turned bus line owner, a car dealer turned senator and you, a beautiful woman.

As you accept this diploma, do so knowing this is just the beginning. What you do with the honorary education that comes with it is up to you.

At 88, many doors will open for you, provided you encounter polite gentlemen who know opening a door for a lady is always the right thing to do.

Perhaps you will embark on your senior trip. If you do, allow me to offer a little advice.

Swimwear: If your senior trip takes you to the beach, opt for the onepiece swimsuit.

I realize the temptation to select that flashy bikini is strong with the newfound freedom of postsecondary life. I make this plea, however, as a matter of civil order.

In the days of the singing duo Jan and Dean, there were two girls for every boy. In your current era, the number is somewhere north of three girls for every boy.

Your wearing a bikini could cause profound medical reactions of the male heart and make that ratio even higher.

Tattoos: I know there is a strong temptation to make

Harris Blackwood a bold statement by getting a tattoo. Don’t.

Just as I predicted Oprah was just a flash in the pan, I believe tattoos are on their way out. You don’t want to wake up five years from now and be out of style at 93.

If you find the urge irresistible, don’t get an image of a pop star, such as Justin Bieber. We can only hope he is on the way out.

Fast cars: There is also a tendency among new graduates to want a fast car.

As the highway safety director for this state, let me discourage this. An attractive woman like you in a shiny car could be a distraction for others on our roads. Don’t do it.

Strong drink: For you, at 88, to outdo college kids in a beer-drinking contest would just be bad form.

We all know who would win, so let’s just keep it that way.

Beachside challenges: Parasailing or jumping from a hotel balcony into a pool might lead less experienced youngsters to emulate your prowess. Once again, you are the leader.

The world awaits you, my dear. The world is your oyster and you are certainly the pearl. You shine and sparkle as you tackle the world and quizzically ask what your 89th year has in store for you.

This graduation is just the beginning and a long line of cheerleaders will stand on the sidelines awaiting your next move.

Here’s to a bright future, Coleen Ivey.

Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appear weekly.

An 88-year-old “graduate,” Coleen Ivey is a relentless ball of energy.

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

The story behind the magazine cover Here’s what happened — and I swear on Mama’s cocoa-splattered chocolate cake recipe that this is the gospel: The editor for a regional full-colored magazine called a couple of years ago and asked me to be on the cover. Since the magazine is owned by a newspaper company that has been very good to me and to this column, I agreed.

She and I started emailing back and forth and, at some point, she said, “We’d love to shoot your husband, too.”

I understand. Sometimes I want to shoot him, too. Like in the case of the apple tree which I have told you about, the one he let die because he did not plant it.

She didn’t want to kill him, though. She wanted to photograph him for the article, specifically for the cover. I knew he would never agree to such. He hates to be in photos. He even takes our wedding photos and edits himself out like I got into the marriage all by myself. I didn’t know how to let her down gently so I copied him when I replied, saying something to the effect

Ronda Rich of, “He doesn’t like making pictures.” By the way, “make your ‘pitcher’” is a Southernism that has charmed him completely.

It’s one of his favorite phrases.

Big Ike — that would be my Tink — replied to the editor that he would be happy to be in the photo.

This, of course, made me look like a fool but I was happy that he was coming around to the right kind of thinking so I let it go.

But I had my doubts. I know him too well.

A month later, it was inching close to ‘pitcher making’ time. Four days and counting. Tink came down the staircase kinda quiet, not in the loud, thumping way he normally thunders down the stairs. He sidled up beside me in the kitchen where I was cooking.

“Baby, I don’t want to

have my pitcher made.”

He looked real sad like I was making him go to first grade by himself.

“Too bad,” I said, dumping the chopped onions into the butter.

“Seriously, baby. I just don’t wanna.”

With wooden spoon in hand, I turned and said, “Well, you’re gonna have it made. It was your big idea because I had a way out for you but, oh no, you chimed in and offered. So, you’re going to do it. You gave your word and you’re going to keep it.” I knew that would settle it. He is an honorable man.

He tried every argument he could think but I paid no never mind. I kept on cooking and reasserting that he was going to do it. Two days later – 48 hours before the photographer was to arrive on the Rondarosa – Tink went to have his hair cut. When he returned, he had NO hair.

I knew what little Johnny Tinker had done. Again, I was in the kitchen, cooking so I walked to the foot of the staircase, looked at him and smiled.

“Good try.” I winked.

“You’re still gonna have your pitcher made.”

His smiled faded. He looked like a little boy whose lollipop had been stolen. “Baby ...”

I held my hand up.

“Nope. Now, you’re going to be on the cover of a magazine, bald-headed.”

So, that’s how he wound up on a magazine cover with no hair of which to speak. But that’s what happened when a Yankee-thinking man tried to outwit a Southern-thinking woman. To paraphrase my friend Charlie, “A man oughta know better than to engage in a battle of wits when not adequately armed for the fight.”

Tink cringes whenever he sees that cover which is, actually, quite nice.

It’s colorful, laughing and joyous. “I learned my lesson,” he has admitted.

I’m happy to hear that because I’m having it framed and hung in his office.

Just in case, he’s ever tempted to forget.

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

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

Portraiture project inspires artists

By LINDA SARTORE

Georgia Art League

As an RN, I worked on an Oncology floor while also working as an instructor in an RN college program. As an instructor I assigned and supervised RN students who were taking care of patients in that area as well. Those were the best clinical experiences in my RN career! Getting to know those patients and their families for whom many were approaching the end of their lives ...acting as their caregiver and their advocate, I developed a bond and a closeness that was stronger than with any other patients I ever took care of. Despite the circumstances that these patients and their families were going through they were some of the kindest I ever encountered.

During this period in the cycle of life everyone is so fearful of those final days, and thus they depend on their caregivers for their knowledge, their expertise, and most of all....for their ability to anticipate and understand their needs, their feelings, and what they are going through.......and hopefully then to provide them with the best care and support they could get.

My own family had the opportunity to experience this first hand with my father for whom, with the help of Northeast Georgia’s Hospice, we

Linda Sartore was the spokesperson for the Georgia Art League artists involved in the hospice portrait project. See Page 3B. cared for here in our home during his final week of life. We were blessed to share his final days with him...where he was surrounded by those who loved him most....where he was kept pain free and finally passed away peacefully. Five hours before my Dad passed away my grandson, his great grandson was born in Atlanta. My Dad was waiting for that miracle to occur because he was so honored to know that little A.G. was to be named after him, A.G. Meyer. So that final afternoon after the birth I whispered into my Dad’s ear that little A.G. had arrived safely, that my Dad was the best dad we could have ever had, that we would take care of our mother......and that it was OK now to go to the loved ones waiting for him on the other side.

Within 30 seconds he finally gave up the fight and passed away peacefully.

It was an amazing moment! I would do it all again because we gave him the best things we could have given

him during those final days, things he had always given us ....quality time together, love, and continuous support.

This experience of painting Larry’s portrait provided me with so many memories of my father’s final days in Hospice care. It gave me the opportunity to devote many hours of getting to know Larry through studying the photo that was provided. Over those hours as I sketched, painted, brushed out and repainted every shadow and crease in his face, wrinkles and all, and tried my best to capture the soul that I saw in his reference photo I developed a connection, an understanding of the man I believe he was. I hope that I captured his features close enough to reality that this portrait will provide the family with a larger than life memory of him. This experience was the best and most fulfilling experience I have had so far as an artist. I so appreciate the family’s willingness to share their loved one with me during this time.

local

The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

7A

Braselton Citizens Class under way with fifth session The 2015 Citizens Class started on May 21. This is the fifth Citizens Class.

The class size has grown each year and because of the growth for this year’s class it had to be held at the Utility Building.

Town Manager Jennifer Dees conducts the class and it is always from May through October once a month on the third Thursday of each month. Each year

businesses and residents are encouraged to sign up for this class.

The first topic discussed was about finance and government.

Nan Edwards spoke about the finance department and Dees spoke about government and all it entails.

Anytime during the class the participants can ask questions and they also receive a binder that details the topic for each

month’s class.

It is a relaxed atmosphere and dinner is provided and interaction is appreciated.

Those attending the initial class included Dean Dow, Dale Melton, Mike Comfort, Paul Connor, Patty Patten, Hudson Tang, Steven Keneda, Kitti Kleinedler, Chris Miccoli, Jennifer Kidd and Dan Vanderwal.

Next class will be June 18.

Debbie Purvis The Paper

The class will assemble once a month to learn about different aspects of the Town of Braselton. It is facilitated by Town Manager Jennifer Dees (below, R). For the first session, Finance Coordinator Nan Edwards, (below, L), discussed the town’s finance department operations.

Dean Dow

Hudson Tang

Dale Melton

Steven Keneda

Mike Comfort

Kitti Kleinedler

Paul Connor

Chris Miccoli

Patty Patten

Jennifer Kidd

Not pictured : Dan Vanderwal Trixie Comfort Ronald Faughtenberry

Hamilton State Bank merger means metro growth Board of directors approves merger with Marietta-headquartered Highland Financial Services

Hamilton State Bancshares Inc., headquartered in Braselton, announced May 15 it has entered into a definitive merger agreement with Highland Financial Services Inc. after receiving unanimous approval from the Boards of Directors of each company.

The combined subsidiary banks will operate under the name Hamilton State Bank.

“I have known and respected Jim Powell for over 25 years, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to work with him,” said Bob Oliver, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Hamilton. “Highland has a proud history of community and customer service. We share a similar culture and are excited about this opportunity to expand into Marietta and

Smyrna,” Mr. Oliver continued. “Both banks will work closely together to ensure that the transition will be as smooth as possible for all of our customers and employees. Lending decisions will continue to be made locally, just as they always have been.”

Highland is headquartered in Marietta with approximately $130 million in total assets and approximately $110 million in deposits. Highland also has a branch location in Smyrna.

“Our Board of Directors went through an organized and thorough process to find the best organization in the Atlanta market to partner with and we believe that Hamilton is the best fit for both our customers and our

employees,” said Jim Powell, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Highland. “Under Bob Oliver’s leadership, Hamilton has developed an extensive suite of banking products and services, has built a strong network of service locations and has amassed a very strong capital base to support large lending relationships. I am excited about the opportunities that Hamilton provides.”

Pending receipt of all necessary regulatory and Highland shareholder approvals, the transaction is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2015. Total assets of the combined bank are expected to be over $1.8 billion, with over $1.1 billion and over $1.4 billion in expected loans and deposits,

respectively.

With the addition of Highland, Hamilton will operate 28 branches throughout North Georgia. Hamilton State Bank is a full-service bank offering a variety of services to its customers from its offices in Barrow, Bartow, Butts, Cobb, Douglas, Hall, Henry, Forsyth, Jasper, Jackson and Paulding counties in Georgia. To learn more about Hamilton State Bank, visit www.hamiltonstatebank.com Sandler O’Neill + Partners, L.P. served as financial advisor to Hamilton, and Alston & Bird LLP served as Hamilton’s legal advisor.

Banks Street Partners, LLC served as financial advisor to Highland, and Troutman Sanders LLP served as Highland’s legal advisor.

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The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

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Sports

BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

Four years have come and four years have gone.

Graduation has taken place and now the next journey begins for the Class of 2015. One thing that will not leave are the memories and the people who made them special.

This is the start of the senior reflection series. Some of the senior members of the 2014-15 Mill Creek Lady Hawks’ basketball team share their favorite moments with teammates, coaches and games in their own words.

ANNA BASILE: This season was by far the most special season to me. Not only because it was going to be my last season ever playing basketball, but because it was my last time playing with the girls who had become such amazing teammates and sisters to me.

Since the fifth grade, we have all played together and been best friends. We spent almost every day together between school, practices, tournaments and sleepovers. This season was amazing, and looking back, I know it will be something I will always remember.

Even though we may not have always been faster and stronger than our opponents, I can honestly say all of my teammates always gave 110 percent on the court, and we played for each other.

I think the fact that we had all always played together really stood out to other teams.

We had one thing that a lot of teams lack, chemistry. Over time we had all learned each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which really came as an advantage to us on the court. Not to mention, almost all the time, even though we would get frustrated at times, we were always encouraging to one another.

I can’t remember a time when we yelled at each other. Don’t get me wrong, we definitely got onto one another here and there, but we usually tried to keep it encouraging and positive no matter what. However, some of the best memories I have

MILL CREEK SENIOR REFLECTIONS

Charles Phelps The Paper

Graduated members of the 2014-15 Mill Creek Lady Hawks’ basketball team reflect on their time at Mill Creek High School.

Pictured are Madison Phillips (front), Anna Basile (middle left), Anna Parks (middle right), Argy Kosmakos (back left) and Aizha Ross (back right). from playing with my best friends was not all basketball, it was the talking, singing and dancing before and after the games.

The locker room was constantly filled with laughter and loud music as we all danced around yelling and screaming. It was always a ritual before every game for us to make a big circle with all the players and one by one each teammate had to go in the middle and dance.

We would all be dying laughing with the insane dance

moves we would come up with, and the fact that we actually thought we were good at dancing. I think it’s those times and moments that I will miss the most.

Even though we are all going our separate ways after graduation, I can’t wait to see what is in store for all of us, and I’m very excited to go visit and spend time with all of them at college. I know for a fact that we have built long -lasting friendships and this is definitely not goodbye for us.

I know I will miss playing basketball and wearing that Mill Creek uniform, but I will miss my sisters even more.

ARGY KOSMAKOS: My high-school basketball career commenced in Fairfax County, Va., at Lake Braddock Secondary School. I played there on the varsity squad for my freshman year before my family made the risky decision to take up residence in Georgia, a new state that would sever me from most of my family

Riding For A Cause: 6th annual Jackson County Brevet takes place Saturday; Money goes towards The Kelly Wilhite Aplastic Anemia Research Fund at Emory University

Doug Chellew The Paper

A scene from last year’s Jackson County Brevet. The ride benefits The Kelly Wilhite Aplastic Anemia Research Fund at Emory University.

BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

If you are out and about in Braselton and Jefferson this Saturday, chances are you will see bicycles, lots of bicycles.

Don’t be frightened, in fact you can still participate in the sixth annual Jackson County Brevet charity ride benefitting The Kelly Wilhite Aplastic Anemia Research Fund at Emory University.

It is the largest fundraising event for Aplastic Anemia research in the U.S. The Bre-

vet has raised $273,000 in five years.

Registration is $55. The ride starts at 7:30 a.m. at Northeast Church in Braselton. Pro cyclists George Hincapie and Christian Vande Velde are scheduled to be at the event.

The ride is also in honor of Olivia Ouimet, said Robert Wilhite, founder of the Jackson County Brevet.

Olivia was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia in February 2013 and received a bone marrow transplant in September 2014. She died due

to complications from the transplant on Nov. 21, 2014.

“We certainly thought we’d be having this ride for a different reason: to celebrate Olivia’s recovery,” said Leigh Ouimet, Olivia’s mom. “However, the ride keeps her memory alive (and) helps in the research.

“It’s going to be very emotional for us (Leigh and husband, Chris) since we lost her, and to see the people out there riding for (the research), it will be emotional.

“The ride is also not just about raising money for re-

search, but it’s also about (bringing) awareness about Aplastic Anemia. A lot of people don’t know what it is.”

There are four different routes: 22, 44, 64 and 102mile loops.

Ride director Chris Ouimet advises cyclists and motorists to take extra precaution on Old Pendergrass Road.

“There are no shoulders on either side and we will have riders riding in both directions at the same time,” he said.

LED sign boards were placed on the roads June 1 alerting drivers of Saturday’s event, he added.

Aplastic Anemia is a rare, deadly condition in which the bone marrow fails to make enough blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. The term aplastic is a Greek word meaning “not to form.” This disease can strike people of any age, race and gender; however, it is more common among children and teenagers. Between 300-600 people are diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia each year in the U.S. For more information about the Jackson County Brevet and how to join the cause, or how to donate, visit www.jacksonbrevet.com; e-mail: info@jacksonbrevet. com; and find them on Facebook, search 2015 Jackson County Brevet or Jackson County Brevet.

and friends that I spent 15 years making. Fortunately, I landed in the midst of an academically astounding high school that also had a unique and welcoming basketball family.

I am beyond thankful for the friendships I have made among my teammates these past three years. Having experienced 12 seasons of varsity sports including basketball, cheerleading, track and field and tennis, I can honestly say that the bond we have is beyond compare.

B

It is true that I hold the title as the only senior on the squad that has not been a part of the group for as long as the rest; however, I still manage to experience the same love and acceptance as if I had been there with all of them the entire time.

It has been a true pleasure playing three extraordinary seasons of basketball alongside some of the most talented players in the state.

I love these girls and they have contributed a great deal to my passion for the sport. I will always cherish the memories we have made and every time I pick up a basketball, I will immediately recollect the amazing girls that I shared an unforgettable experience with.

ANNA PARKS: Doing anything for 13 years, especially playing a sport, in a way makes a person feel like he or she has built a career.

Basketball was mine.

I absolutely loved it. With playing basketball for so long, many windows of opportunities opened up for me. I got to travel to lots of different places and meet all different kinds of people, including my best friends to this day.

I learned a lot about my character, my strengths and my weaknesses, and grew as an overall person from playing the game of basketball.

I’m not sure if I would have stuck with it, or even started playing, if it wasn’t for my dad. Basketball was our thing, it’s how we bonded. He was my toughest coach and my biggest fan at the same.

We joke that we have traveled to every high-school gym in the state of Georgia to play a game in some tournament.

Mom was my favorite cheerleader and motivator.

She told me when I was little, “You can run the game, or the game can run you,” and I would tell myself that every time I stepped on the court. My parents were my rock all throughout those 13 years, but they weren’t the only ones. I had other family members that supported me,

REFLECTIONS, 2B

Skelton ready for next level in football

Doug Chellew The Paper

T.J. Skelton makes a play during the 2014 season.

BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@clickthepaper.com

Former Jefferson wide receiver and graduate T.J. Skelton is ready for what the next stage of his life will bring.

He is headed to Valdosta State University, where he will play college football.

He knows it is a “big step” in his life, but he’s looking forward to it. And, he’s going to remember his time at Jefferson and the people who helped make the experience memorable.

“Moving to Jefferson was

a great decision,” said Skelton. “The faculty and (the) students there are wonderful.

“The student body has so much school spirit, and they support almost every school event, so does the faculty…

(Continuing) on to Valdosta State is a big step, but I am looking forward to it. It’s going to be a (different) atmosphere than high-school football, but it’s going to be exciting to look up into the stands and (see) everything

SKELTON, 2B

LOCAl camps

local baseball

local GOLF

Summer camps & clinics at Jackson Co.

Baseball camp at Jefferson High School

Reunion CC offering junior golf camp

Youth camps at Jackson County Comprehensive High School this summer: Boys’ Basketball Camp: June 8-11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Girls’ Basketball Camp: June 23-25 from 8:30am to noon; Baseball Camp: June 22-24 from 9 a.m. to noon; Football Camp: July 13-15 from 6-8 p.m.; Softball Camp: June 15-17 from 9 a.m. to noon. For information, contact the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department at 706-367-6350 and www.jacksonrec.com.

The Jefferson High School baseball program will host its annual youth baseball camp from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. starting Monday, June 15 and ending Thursday, June 18. Cost is $75. Registration closes on June 12. Campers will receive individual instruction in hitting, fielding, base running and throwing. Games and contests will be played; Winners will receive trophies at the end of the week. Each camper will also receive a T-shirt. To register, visit www.jeffersonrec.com.

Reunion Country Club to offer three junior golf summer camps for boys and girls, ages 6-15. Registration is $175 for members/ residents of Reunion; $200 non-residents/non-members. The camp dates are June 8-11, July 13-16 and July 27-30 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Instruction includes full swing, short game, putting and chipping. After camp care will also be provided from 1-3 p.m. for an additional $100 per camper. For more information, visit: www.reuniongolfclub.com, or call 770-9678300.

2B

sports

The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

East Jackson and Jackson County Athlete Graduation Photos

LeAnne Akin The Paper

TOP: East Jackson Comprehensive High School football player Cody Abernathy (left) and cross country/track runner Noah Hulett (right) graduated last Friday. BOTTOM: Jackson County Comprehensive High School volleyball player Kelcie Zimmer (left) and baseball player/class president Colby Cole (right) graduated last Saturday.

REFLECTIONS Continued from 1B

too, like my sisters — or teammates — that have been by my side since the fifth grade.

When I moved to Mill Creek in fifth grade, I had no idea those girls I met at GBL tryouts would be my locker neighbors today. From GBL championships, to eighth grade middleschool games, to playing at the varsity level, my girls and I have had each other’s back on and off the court.

We built a bond that couldn’t be broken.

Sure we went through some struggles and hard times, but in the end we made it through it all. On Feb. 3, 2015, we played (my personal favorite) and most exciting game ever. Beating Mountain View, ranked No. 1 in region at the time, in double overtime, 60-54, is a game I will never forget. With both leading scorers out by the second overtime, the grit and the heart came out in every member on the team.

Aizha Ross and I stepped up as leaders, and Anna Basile and Lauren (Smith) came off the bench and played like (they) had never even been on it. The rivalry between us and the Mountain View girls was intense. So, for us to walk into their house and beat them in a game as wild as that one, it’ll never get old.

The ending of the season was incredibly bittersweet. Granted it didn’t exactly end as ideally as we had hoped, we knew that our chapter together had come to an end and it was time to move on to the next one. I am not playing basketball in college; I will be attending UGA in the fall (go dawgs) because it has been my dream to go there since I can remember.

I knew about halfway through my junior year that I didn’t want to pursue basketball in college. For me personally, it took away a lot of the pressures and I got to have more fun playing the game that I love. I still think about the sport every day — the beauty of it, the sweat, the tears, the hard work — but what I will never forget is how I felt on the court. I can’t find the words to explain how I felt out there, but the court was my happy place. The atmosphere was electric. After 13 years I won’t get that feeling again, but I guarantee I will never forget it.

MADISON PHILLIPS: When I was 7 years old, I moved into the house I live in now because my dad was becoming the new girls’ basketball coach at Mill Creek.

I was pretty shy when I was younger, so I never really wanted to go out of my way and start playing a sport. But, in second grade, my parents told me I needed to pick a sport to play, because it was time for me to get involved. I of course chose basketball, because of its relevance in my family, even at such a young age. In second grade, on my first-ever team, I met Anna Basile, who went on to be my teammate until our senior year of high school. Her dad was our rec coach and my dad was her older sister’s high-school coach at the time.

Over the years, I have met all of these amazing girls who are now my best friends. I met Meredith in the fourth grade, actually for the first time at Jeffery’s eating family dinners. Our dads had known each other since high school, but we had never met. We then went on to all play GBL together: myself, Anna Parks, Aizha Ross, Anna Basile, Lauren Smith and Meredith Schulte all started our first team together in the fifth grade.

Throughout all the years, we have traveled together, had countless amounts of sleepovers, and have made lifelong friendships. We all played at Osborne Middle School together, (but Aizha played at Jones) and went on to Mill Creek High School, where we had many more dreams to accomplish.

Together, we were a family, but we still had one more member to add, Argy Kosmakos.

She moved from Virginia, and we were so excited to add one more friend to our group of best friends. She fit right in and even though I know sometimes I know she feels left out of our past, I feel like we have been friends forever. Now that our high school careers are over and we are no longer teammates, I know that we will forever remain best friends. I love each of them very much, and I know that we all have bright futures ahead of us.

As I begin my journey to the University of North Georgia, I am excited but also a bit (sad) because I will never have my girls beside me on the court again. I am so thankful to have been pushed into basketball by my parents and to have completed the best journey I could have ever imagined from second

Charles Phelps The Paper

Graduated members of the 2014-15 Mill Creek Lady Hawks’ basketball team reflect on their time at Mill Creek High School. grade into my years of college.

AIZHA ROSS: Coming to play for Mill Creek in the fifth grade was a scary thing for me, because I did not know any of the girls on the team.

However, when I arrived to practice for the first time, it was an experience like no other. I immediately felt loved. The girls did not make me feel like an outsider, instead, they welcomed me with open arms. As time progressed, we became more than teammates. We grew closer together, and created a sisterhood.

There has been many times where we have seen each other more than our own families.

Our parents have contributed heavily to our success as a team and family as well. Without their support in the stands every game, we would not have been as successful as we have been.

The girls gave me such a warm embrace, it made me overlook the fact that I was different. In the beginning, I was the only Af-

rican-American, but it was never an issue.

The coaches held me to the same standard as the other girls. I can remember us going to Tennessee for a tournament and I was the only African-American player there. I was really uncomfortable when we played the other teams, because those parents and players did not treat me as an equal. However, I feel as though my teammates knew I was uncomfortable and they did everything in their power to make me happy and comfortable. I will always remember that because it showed me that they were truly my friends and genuinely love me.

I will always love Coach Phillips and all the other coaches we have played for, because they have treated me like their own daughter. They have always pushed us to be a better player, but Coach Phillips has always pushed another message as well. He has always instilled in us to be women with integrity, not only on the court, but off the court as well.

That is a life lesson I will always keep with me and pass on to other people.

The Arena at Jefferson High School to host American sports exhibit in Jan. 2017 FROM THE PAPER STAFF REPORTS

sports@clickthepaper.com

Baseball, football, basketball, volleyball, track, wrestling and swimming, people around the country are drawn to compete in these sports and many others.

More people gather, though, on the sidelines to cheer for their favorite athletes and teams and there is no place Americans intimately connect with sports than in their own backyard; Their own hometown.

The Crawford Long Museum and Jefferson High School, in cooperation with the Georgia Humanities Council, will celebrate the person-hometown sports connection as it hosts “Hometown Teams: How Sports Shape America,” a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum on Main Street program. “Hometown Teams” will be on display for six weeks at The Arena at Jefferson High School, Jan. 14, 2017, until Feb. 25, 2017.

“We are very pleased Jefferson was selected as a host city to bring Hometown Teams to our area,” said Vicki Starnes, Craw-

SKELTON

Continued from 1B from a college (athlete’s) view,” continued Skelton.

“It’s going to be harder, but I’m up to the challenge and going to try to make my folks back home proud.”

What makes Skelton up to the challenge? It is something “new.” The new adven-

ford Long Museum manager. “It allows us the opportunity to explore this fascinating aspect of our own area’s sports history, and we hope that it will inspire many to become involved in the cultural life of our community.

“We will need many volunteers to help us staff this exhibition and help with the planning and development of additional programming and events.”

The display will capture the stories that unfold on the neighborhood fields and courts, show the underdog heroics, larger-than-life legends, fierce rivalries and gut-wrenching defeats. For more than 100 years, sports has reflected the trials and triumphs of the American experience and helped shape the national character. Whether it is professional sports, or those played on the collegiate or scholastic level, amateur sports, or sports played by kids on the local playground, sports are everywhere in America.

“Allowing all of our state’s residents to have access to the cultural resources of our nation’s premiere museum is a priority of the Georgia Humanities Council,” said Arden Williams, Georgia Humanities Senior

ture is also becoming “real” the closer it gets, he added.

“Experiencing something new is always good,” he said.

“This type of change is good.

But, I figured it would be this real.

“A lot of close people around (me) have been preaching to me about it and during the recruiting process that things will begin to get

more real and it feels like it.”

He calls Valdosta a “great school” to get an education from. They also have a successful football program.

The Blazers have won three Division II National Championship titles (2004, 2007 and 2012).

Skelton said he wanted to be at a place where the program knows “how to win.”

Program officer. “With this special tour, we are pleased to be working with the Crawford Long Museum and Jefferson City Schools to help develop local exhibitions and public programs to compliment the Smithsonian Institution exhibition.”

The exhibition will be free for the general public to attend and many additional programs are being planned to start in 2016 and lead up to its opening in January 2017.

Museum on Main Street invites the public to share their local sports stories through the “Stories from Main Street” website, www.storiesfrommainstreet.org, or through the free mobile application available from the Mac App Store or the Google Play Store. Both platforms record and map the locations reflected in the submission and will accept written and audio stories as well as video and photos.

Select submitted stories to “Stories from Main Street” will be featured on the website and app. The archived stories will serve as a searchable record of the unique experiences of life in small-town America. Each story can be searched via location or by topic.

For further information, or to volunteer

Well Valdosta knows how to win.

“The coaches are great,” he said. “The system they have is a good fit for the team and also for me. My new teammates know how to win and know what it takes to win, and they do it right.

“I believe we will all be on the same page.”

when the Smithsonian comes to town, contact the Crawford Long Museum at 706-367-5307; Museum operating hours, Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Hometown Teams: How Sports Shape America” is part of Museum on Main Street, a unique collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), state humanities councils across the nation and local host institutions.

To learn more about other Museum on Main Street exhibitions, visit www.museumonmainstreet.org.

Support for Museum on Main Street has been provided by the United States Congress.

SITES has been sharing the wealth of Smithsonian Institution collections and research programs with millions of people outside Washington, D.C. for more than 60 years.

SITES connects Americans to their shared cultural heritage through a wide range of exhibitions about art, science and history, which are shown wherever people live, work and play. For exhibition description and tour schedules, visit www.sites.si.edu.

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CMYK Thursday, June 4, 2015

features

3B

Ernest Varner shared how Regie Kennedy got him inspired to be involved in the portrait project; portraits are unveiled.

Bash and Tessa Kamat were overwhelmed by the portraits of their son, Aiden, who was born Jan. 11, 2012. Artist Renee Hewitt painted the infant with and without the oxygen tube. His parents will hang the portrait with the oxygen tube since it represents a good day when Aiden was showing his fighting spirit. The baby died Nov. 1, 2012. “We will treasure these,” said Tessa. “We are so grateful.” See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

PRECIOUS PORTRAITS Georgia Art League partners with Northeast Georgia Hospice to create heirloom portraits for families of hospice patients

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

A labor of love and a special gift of sharing talents was culminated May 28 at reception of “A Celebration of Life: A portraiture project honoring those we love.”

Rhonda Rogers, social services manager with Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center, said the focus of the endeavor was honoring those we love. She said some of those patients, like Linda Bell, were in attendance.

Others were unable to attend because they were sick at home. Others have passed away and Rogers noted this was a tender time for those

families.

Tears were frequent as thoughts were shared about the project and when the portraits were unveiled by the artists who then got a chance to connect with the families of the patients they had captured on canvas. One piece was a clay sculpture and another was a wood carving.

Georgia Art League president Re’gie Kennedy, who brought the idea to the league, said, “It is not about artists or care givers, or the pain of grief, nor is it about loneliness or mourning or of the loss of life, but rather the ‘giving’ and the supernal connection that is made through that giving, wherein both the

recipient and giver are endowed with joy.

“Many of the artist have expressed how their desire dwarfs their ability to give a gift of heirloom quality,” said Kennedy. “Yet the effort was made and many hours of toil and tears spent, and whispered prays heard on High.

“With guidance of a magnificent teacher, the artists honed their skills beyond the realm of expectations, and the riches of disciplined labors were achieved,” said Kennedy. “Now the excitement of this pearl of great price takes center stage, and the lesson learned was it was all about the giving.”

Kennedy said the superior instruction and guidance from Ernest Varner, an artist she by chance met in an Atlanta area frame shop, is prompting some artists who have never before undertaken a portrait to consider future portraits. He is a member of the Portrait Society of America and is past president of the Portrait Society of Atlanta.

Varner provided two workshops at no charge because he was inspired by the project’s mission.

Chris Sherry, portrait artist/teacher, also assisted students as did GeorgeAnn Moore, watercolor teacher.

“Several of the artist have

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Linda Bell and husband James had family members including grandchildren Austin and Ashton with them for the unveiling of her portrait by Augusta artist Lala Streett. expressed to me their feelings of connection and bonding that occurs between artist and patient. When an artist learns every nook and cranny of a person’s face and then captures the light of their soul through the expression of the eyes, you connect with that soul on a higher spiritual ground,” said Kennedy.

Longtime artist Jill Haack of Gainesville says she is not a portrait artist but pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is good. “I learned so much,” she said.

“I feel like I know Cameron now,” said Haack, who notes that her subject loved music and she wanted to re-

flect that.

“Music was so important to him, and I wanted to show that,” said Haack. “By painting him with a guitar, the first instrument he started playing, I hope will make his family remember him and his love for music.”

Cameron’s father Dana Miller said the family was very appreciative of the portraits, one of which Cameron’s older sister Natalie held tight.

Kennedy said she hopes the families will use the portraits to inspire stories of loved ones to be shared through the generations.

See more on the project at ClickThePaper.com

The family of Cameron Miller received two portraits. “I hope this will make his family remember him and his love for music,” said artist Jill Haack. Earlan Gill also painted Cameron. (At L) As Regie Kennedy spoke, the atrium of Lake Park on the former Lanier Park Hospital in Gainesville was filled with family members of hospice patients and many of the 50 artists who participated in the special portrait project.

New Boys & Girls Club in Commerce gets under way COMMERCE - A formal groundbreaking ceremony was held May 29 for the new Boys & Girls Club facility being constructed in Commerce at Ridgeway Street just off Homer Road. The facility will replace a recreation building donated in 2006 by the City of Commerce until the Boys & Girls Club could construct a facility that was better designed for its use.

Last year, the City of Commerce applied for and received a $500,000 Georgia Community Development Block Grant for the Boys & Girls Club facility, and the club began a $1.5 million capital campaign early this year to raise the additional funds necessary to construct, furnish and staff the 7,000-square-foot facility.

“The City of Commerce is blessed to have an incredible Boys & Girls Club. The club continues to grow because of the tremendous support of this community and its volunteers. The impact that the Boys & Girls Club has made on the lives of these young people cannot be emphasis enough. The City of Commerce is excited to partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Jackson County in building the new clubhouse that will

serve future generations,” said Mayor Clark Hill.

Capital campaign chairm a n J a c k McKinney and honorary capital camMcKinney paign chair Verlin Reece report that the community has rallied round the project. “To date, we have raised an additional $346,500 for the club, with local businesses and individuals stepping up to help provide a safe, healthy place for our children that both they and the community can take pride in,” said McKinney.

Among the donors are: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC – $250,000; an Atlanta foundation which wishes to remain anonymous – $25,000; Centurion Auto Transport – $17,000; Commerce Presbyterian Church –$17,000; Walton Development – $10,000; BM&K Construction– $9,000; Huber Engineered Wood – $5,000; TenCate Geosynthetics – $ 2,500; Wilbanks Law Firm, P.C. – $1,000;

Kiwanis Club of Commerce –$1,000; Individuals – $9,000.

“We’ve received strong interest and support from both businesses and individuals that understand the importance of the work the club does with young people in our community, and we are truly thankful for each and every dollar we’ve received,” Reece said.

Designed by 2WR architecture, interiors and planning, the state-of-the-art facility will be able to accommodate up to 225 children, nearly triple the capacity of the

current club. The new club will be located on 5.19 acres of land at the intersection of Homer Road and Ridgeway Drive which was purchased by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Jackson County in 2014.

Fundraising for the facility will continue during construction, McKinney said, with opportunities available for naming rooms within the club as well as the playground and baseball field.

Reece noted that the Commerce club serves an average 85 members a day, and jumps to 105 members daily

during the nine-week summer program. “The overwhelming majority of children who attend the Boys & Girls Club make As and Bs in school and are promoted to the next grade level. Each club member has a sense of belonging and know that people care about them.

From the Boys & Girls Club, they gain the tools they need to make positive choices that will help them realize their full potential and grow into responsible citizens. Who couldn’t get behind that kind of proposition?”

Pledges of additional support for the new club as well as ongoing operational expenses are needed. A onetime gift or donations made evenly over two or three years are welcome. There are also available naming opportunities. For more information, contact Michael Williams at 706-367-8553 or mwilliamsbgjc@yahoo.com or contact capital campaign chairman Jack McKinney at 706-335-6932 or jmckinney@ centurionautologistics.com Learn more at www. bgcjcga.org.

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Members of the Boys & Girls Club in Commerce donned hard hats along with members of the campaign cabinet and the board of directors for the May 29 groundbreaking ceremony. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

4B

features

The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

June 13 is grand reopening for Hoschton Depot

By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

The City of Hoschton is honored to celebrate the grand reopening of the historic train depot on Saturday, June 13.

After an arson fire destroyed the building at the beginning of March, the city staff and residents have come together to see the best possible situation out of something so terrible.

Instead of languishing over what went wrong, everyone has maintained a positive attitude and has only looked forward. Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly has said numerous times that she does not understand why someone would burn such a precious, historic monument, but she is floored with the outpour of support. There is support offered almost every day, whether it be financial or someone offering their time, skills or resources.

“Almost every day since the fire, different people ask how they can help,” said Kenerly.

“Some made monetary donations, and some do not have the means to do so, so they volunteer their time or skills. For example, someone offered to plant flowers once the Depot reconstruction is complete. Yes, the fire was an absolutely terrible circumstance, but it has really brought our community even closer together.

We are keeping our heads up.”

Kenerly and the city council members are hosting the grand reopening, and are thrilled to show the community the new and improved historic train depot. Fortunately, reconstruction has moved quickly and smoothly, so after June 13 the depot will be ready to be rented for special events once again. Kenerly said that renovation plans were in the near future for the depot before it was burned, but the plans have obviously been expedited due to the fire.

The plan was to recreate the old, historic look to the depot as much as possible, while ensuring that it is a fully functional space that renters can use for wedding receptions, parties, gatherings

and much more. The vision is coming together nicely, and the staff is thrilled to officially open again. There will also be a much larger deck that will give bands much more space for performances as well as giving the depot more outdoor spots for mingling and socializing.

By offering a functional rental space while keeping the historic charm, the Hoschton historic train depot is one of a kind.

Speaking of bands, at the grand reopening event, The Rocking Birds will be the first one to utilize the space. Other fun happenings will include a ribbon cutting and ceremony presented by Kenerly and council members Jim Cleveland, Scott Butler, David Poteet and Jim Higginbottom.

The construction group who made the reconstruction possible, Parker Young Construction, will participate in the ribbon cutting as well, and they are also the ones generously donating the food for the event.

Kenerly and the council members are pleased with Parker Young Construction and their willingness to work with their vision of recreating a historic building while maintaining proper functionality.

Aimee Soto from Independence Bank will do the presentation of the flags, and there will also be several activities for children as well as refreshments.

Admission is free. It will be a family-friendly event for all that will celebrate a huge feat for Hoschton.

“We really want to stress to the community that the grand reopening is something that we want them to be a part of,” said Hoschton’s event coordinator Jennifer Kidd. “This is going to be a very special, touching and memorable event. We really want people to come to show their support. We are also going to offer tours of the newly-reconstructed depot.”

Kidd said Kenerly and the council members will give away T-shirts as well as memorable pieces of the depot for keepsakes.

LeAnne Akin The Paper

The Hoschton Heritage Arts Council hosted Bluegrass & BBQ at the Hoschton Depot on May 30 with a portion of proceeds going to the depot restoration. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

Spring Rivers Alive collects 1,320 pounds of trash

On May 16, Rivers Alive, Georgia’s annual volunteer waterway cleanup event that targets all waterways in the state including streams, rivers, lakes, beaches and wetlands, found 48 volunteers from Braselton, Barrow and Jackson counties conducting the spring cleanup. Collected was 66 bags of trash, seven tires, lots of balls lost down the storm drains for a total of 1,320 pounds of garbage. Sponsors included Papa John’s Pizza. Mayfield ice cream, Whole Foods, Roy and Tina McHaney, Barrow County’s Matt Treeter, Keep Jackson Beautiful, Town of Braselton, Joe Goodman of Onsite Monitoring, Wayne Woodall and Athens Stonecasting.

At R, Jacob Yother, Jacob Smith, Andy Yother, Brad Smith Lee Scarbrough were among the Scout volunteers. At L, Grant Goodman showed off a salmander which was found indicating clean stream. See more at ClickThePaper.com

Seamless Summer Feeding under way in Jackson Co.

By FARAH BOHANNON

Food coming into community by bus or participants can eat at several locations

The Jackson County School Nutrition Program announces the Seamless Summer Feeding, a program that ensures the county’s children have the option to enjoy healthy breakfasts and lunches while school is out for the summer, is under way. This program is free to children 18 and under, and there are no income or registration requirements. Adults are allowed to participate, but the fee for them is $3.50 per meal.

Meal locations will vary during the summer. Five different buses will make between three and four stops from now until the end of summer, right before school starts back at the beginning of August. There will also be three Jackson County locations for students to gather and grab a bite to eat in addition to the bus stops.

Bus 1 stops will include Fox Chase 503 Jim David Road arriving at 11 a.m. and departing at 11:30 a.m., Short Cut New Harmony Church 8616 Highway 334 arriving at 11:40 a.m. and departing at 12:10 p.m., Tolbert Trailer Park arriving at 12:20 p.m. and departing at 12:50 p.m., and Brooks Drive arriving at 1 p.m. and departing at 1:30 p.m.

Bus 2 stops will include Ivey Plantation 56 Pine Ridge Place arriving at 11 a.m. and departing at 11:20 a.m., Heritage Hills 100 Heritage Hills Drive arriving at 11:35 a.m. and departing at 12:05 p.m., and Willoughby Homes 112 Willoughby Homes arriving at 12:15 p.m. and departing at 12:45 p.m.

Bus 3 will include Bellview Homes 108 Bellview Homes arriving at 11 a.m. and departing at 11:30 a.m., Ashworth Mobile Home Park 935 Homer Road arriving at 11:40 a.m. and departing at 12:10 p.m., Jackson Hills 110 B Wilson Road arriving at 12:20 p.m. and departing at 12:50 p.m., Heritage Crossing 100 Crossing Place arriving at 1 p.m. and departing at 1:30 p.m.

Bus 4 will include Pleasant

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

Acres 30 Hale Road arriving at 11 a.m. and departing at 11:45 a.m., Pleasant Hill Mobile Home Park 16 Pleasant Hill Drive arriving at noon and departing at 12:30 p.m., and Pendergrass Baptist Church118 Church Drive arriving at 12:40 p.m. and departing at 1 p.m.

Bus 5 will include Oak Grove 1325 Oak Grove Road arriving at 11 a.m. and departing at 11:25 a.m., Fuller Road 165 Fuller Road arriving at 11:35 a.m. and departing at noon, Rock Forge 101 White Oak Trail arriving at 12:40 p.m. and departing at 1 p.m., and Swan Road 100 Swan Circle arriving at 1:10 p.m. and departing at 1:30 p.m.

This summer in addition to mobile routes, meals will be served at three additional

locations.

East Jackson Comprehensive High School will provide meals from June 3 until July 31. Breakfast will be served from 7:30- 8:30 a.m., and lunch will be served from 11:15 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

The Boys and Girls Club of Commerce will provide meals from May 26 until July 31. Breakfast will be served from 8:30-9 a.m., and lunch will be served from noon until 12:30 p.m.

Lastly, North Jackson Elementary School will provide meals from June 15-26.

Breakfast will be served

from 7:30-8:30 a.m., and lunch will be served from 11:15 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

Seamless Summer Feeding will allow Jackson County children to receive healthy meals all summer long, especially those who may come from low income families. It is an excellent way to take the pressure off of parents who work during the day and are not around to serve meals, or for parents who struggle to provide adequate meals while children are not in school.

“As children grow and change, proper fuel and

nutrition is crucial, which is what the Jackson County Nutrition Department realizes,” said Director of Nutrition Debra Morris. “Not only did we realize a widespread problem, our goal is to fix it by offering meal options while children are not in school.”

By allowing adults to participate as well, they can enjoy an affordable meal at $3.50 each.

For more information about the Jackson County School System and the nutrition program, visit www. jackson.k12.ga.us

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features

The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

5B

Erin O. Smith Regional staff

Water flows down the falls (R) created by Dinah Wallace’s husband in the garden at her Gainesville home. The waterfall was one of the first steps to deal with a drainage problem. The outdoor garden spaces of seven locations will be featured on Saturday’s Garden Walk.

Garden Walk offers peek at conservation ventures

By KELSEY WILLIAMSON

Regional staff

Since its beginnings in 2011, the Redbud Project has been coming together as a model for conservation in Hall County that also offers education and resources to the public. And next week, it will be one of the seven featured gardens on the Hall County Master Gardeners’ biannual Garden Walk.

During the tour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 6, attendees will have a sneak peek of the Red Project and see the accessible areas and the portions still in progress. Participants will also glimpse the Linwood Nature Preserve, which is part of the tour for the first time as well.

The walk, held every two years, features seven residential and professional garden sites. Tickets are available for $10 from the Hall County Extension Office at 734 E. Crescent Drive in Gainesville or online at www.hallmaster gardeners.com.

The Garden Walk ticket provides patrons with the locations of the seven gardens, directions and information about each. The route is not specific, allowing participants to determine which stops they want to use. Master Gardeners will be at each location to answer questions.

Participants will also receive

Garden Walk 2015 What: Tour of seven gardens offered bi-annually by the Hall County Master Gardeners When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 6 Where: Homes and professional garden sites such as Gardens on Green and the new Linwood Nature Preserve Cost: $10 before June 6, $15 on June 6 at any of the seven gardens a pass-along plant at the Braselton stop of the tour.

Master Gardener Margaret Rasmussen, head of the Redbud Project, hopes showing people ways to protect nature and ecosystems around them through the model off Springview Drive will help people conserve in their own homes.

“Everything here is replicable,” she said. “We want to encourage conservation, but we needed a model to show how. The Redbud Project helps us do that. We want to get people into nature.”

The garden features specimens of native plants and other species beneficial to the ecosystem. It also has examples of rain gardens, rain barrels and plants that filter stormwater.

“The rain gardens feature plants that can withstand drought or moisture,” Rasmussen said. “They control the storm water runoff and slow it down, so that by the time it reaches the creeks, the pollutants have been fil-

tered out.”

The carefully constructed gardens help control soil erosion and other issues that damage the lake and surrounding nature. The rain gardens and each specimen bed have been constructed and cared for by volunteers, including many Master Gardeners.

“We have so many community volunteers,” Rasmussen said. “Each bed has a captain who is a master gardener who helped choose the plants in the bed and cares for them. We will also have trail captains and trail stewards who are responsible for cleaning up the trails.”

The nature preserve’s trailhead is still under construction on Linwood Drive, but the trails are open to the public from the gates on Springview Drive. The area has approximately 2 miles of trails with viewing areas and bench seating throughout.

“We want to provide nature to people for their health and wellness,” Rasmussen

said. “We want to get them out on the trails or on the viewing decks.”

Parts of the preserve’s trails overlook Lake Lanier, and all features will be open to see on the Garden Walk.

Rasmussen also hopes once people are exposed to native plants on the tour, then they will choose to use them in their own gardens.

“The woods around here have many plants that you can use in landscapes,” Rasmussen said. “We want to encourage people to use native plants because they help the communities around them.”

Dinah Wallace, whose garden will be featured for the first time on the walk, has many native plants on her property, such as ferns and shrubs. But it was not an easy task.

She and husband Ken, however, took on a major landscaping renovation in 2008. Where the house once had dirt, dust and soil erosion, it now has water features, bridges, trails and plants throughout.

“The waterfall was the first thing we did,” Wallace said. “It was completely my husband’s idea, and he did it all himself. I think he redid it six times before he was satisfied.”

The waterfall, which streams down two naturallooking rock beds, travels under a bridge, through the

American legion post 56 citizen of the year Brooks Benton was named the American Legion Post 56 Citizen of the year for 2015-2016. The annual award was presented to Mr. Benton at the May 19 meeting. Commander Gene Bennett (pictured, L) also presented Benton a citation for the Meritorious Service Award.

Bennett said that Benton’s impeccable character and commitment to the Jackson County communities made it easy to choose Mr. Benton for the award. He said Brooks never hesitates when asked to help when it comes to our military veterans. Benton has a wonderful voice and performs at many functions each year.

garden and into a large pond.

Wallace noted the large pond was part of the property when they moved to it in the 1970s.

“We have been in this location 37 years,” she said. “The pond has always been here, but every time Ken goes fishing, he puts the fish in the pond. We have huge catfish that we feed.”

A walking path surrounds the pond, complete with small dock, canoe, benches and bridges along the way.

Wallace noted she walks around the pond at least once a day.

“I walk through here and look at all of the plants, make sure everything is doing all right,” she said. “I will walk around here in the evening.

The sound of the waterfalls is just so peaceful.”

Wallace particularly enjoys odd-shaped plants, such as a crooked tree or strangely-shaped shrub.

She and her husband have brought plants from many other places to feature in their garden.

“I really like things that are different,” she said.

“Now, the problem is finding different plants that we don’t already have. We get some from North Carolina, or at the garden expo.”

All of the gardens on the tour have a different element to them. Some are floral-focused, others are primarily native plants, and some are modern. Garden Walk cochairwoman Sarah Galshack said all of them are “doable.”

“For all of them, we wanted something the gardener created, not a landscaper,” Galshack said. “(Wallace’s garden) is our quiet place in the country.

The garden in Braselton is more of an urban garden, but they all can be recreated with the right person.”

Galshack noted many of the master gardeners help out in the featured gardens prior to the event.

“For Garden Walk, we all pull together and volunteer to pull weeds or trim shrubs,” Galshack said. “A group will get together at one garden one day and work and have lunch and get ready for the walk.”

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Age 50: Retirement Planning Is All Downhill From Here This paid advertisement written by Jeff Cutter, Investment Advice by Scott Moore.

Recently, I attended a surprise 50th birthday party thrown for a friend of mine. Even on the weekends, I find it hard to completely remove my financial planning hat, and I couldn’t help but think about how along with the party, balloons, and somewhat crude old-age jokes, that half-century mark brings a slew of lifechanging implications. Although people often think about the age they intend to stop working when planning for retirement, our focus is to help our clients prepare for that moment and onward, so our golden age in retirement planning comes much earlier.

Turning 50 tends to be a wake up call for many pre-retirees.

And with approximately a decade or so until retirement, it is so important to understand the effect of timing on an investment plan. In our 30s and 40s, if our investments take a hit, we have a little bit of time to try to make up what we have lost, although in the long-run we will likely still be below that

initial bench mark. At age 50, well, we cannot afford to lose. We simply don’t have time on our side anymore. Each dip leaves a lasting impression, deeper than the last.

Fifty is the age when we must take a critical eye to our financial plan and evaluate the risk on each dollar saved. If we have previously neglected our retirement plan, it is the time to begin to take it seriously. Ask yourself, is your money secure?

Is it braced for the next market downturn? Can you afford to lose 20%, 30, or even 40%?

When that downturn occurs, what is your strategy to get out of the market? Look, in our 50s, we no longer have the luxury of not knowing these answers.

We must take action. Life is all about decisions. And decisions have consequences. And isn’t inaction a decision in itself?

Luckily, our friends in Washington understand the importance of this age as well, so there are a few perks thrown to those who are on their way down the back side of that hill called life.

Congress gives us a 50th birthday present; I call it stash the cash. It’s the ability to contribute an extra $5,500 in our retirement plans. The regular limit on contributions to a 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) is set at $17,500 this year, but the catch-up provisions give us the freedom to bump up that limit to $23,000 after turning 50. It is important to take advantage of this gift, especially in the final years leading up to retirement.

Finding the room in our budgets to increase our contributions accordingly can make a big difference down the road.

Just as with our 401(k) and other employer-sponsored plans, the limit on what we can contribute to our Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) changes after hitting the halfcentury mark. Instead of the $5,500 we can contribute to our IRA in our younger years, the 50-year milestone gives us a $1,000 increase with its catchup provision. One thousand dollars might not seem like a big difference, but when considering the tax implications and the value of our IRAs in retirement,

that $1,000 can be a real game changer.

In addition to the contribution increase, we are also able to create an IRA for a spouse that is not in the workforce. Just as with fine wine, the strengths of our IRAs only get better with age.

With age comes clarity, and that clarity might be our biggest advantage in retirement planning.

Budgeting and planning for our retirement costs is nearly impossible to do accurately in our younger years, but as we hit 50 and beyond, we are able to create a much clearer picture.

At age 50 we have a pretty good idea of what our financial lifestyle goals look like 20- 30 years down the road. We may have that retirement destination picked out. We may have a good idea of what our healthcare costs will include. Furthermore, at 50, many of the expenses we have been accustomed to paying for years should start to wind down.

Mortgages, college expenses and other child-related expenses all decrease, so there should be

more room in our budgets to take advantage of those catchup provisions mentioned earlier.

So, Moore Weekly readers, even though most people will continue to focus on that age when they can skip off into the sunset of retirement, it’s important not to forget about the milestones you are hitting along the way. Recognizing the advantages of turning 50 might make all those old-age jokes a little easier to stomach. With age comes wisdom, and by using this wisdom to your advantage, age can bring you a more successful retirement plan as well.

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 advisory services offered through Horter Investment Management, LLC, a SEC-Registered Investment Adviser. Horter Investment Management does not provide legal or tax advice.

Investment Adviser Representatives of Horter Investment Management may only conduct business with residents of the states and jurisdictions in which they are properly registered. Insurance and annuity products are sold separately through <Insert Name>. Securities transactions for Horter Investment Management clients are placed through Trust Company of America, TD Ameritrade, Pershing Advisor Solutions, Jefferson National Life Insurance Company, Security Benefit Life Insurance Company and ED&F Man Capital Markets.

6B

events

The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS Huge Treasure (not junk) yard sale.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties is hosting a hug treasure (not junk) yard sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, at the Berkshire Hathaway office at 4134 Highway 53 in Hoschton.

Leave with a treasure – furniture, accessories, small appliances, art, sporting equipment, toys, office supplies, books and CDs and much more – and help brighten days for children with cancer. All proceeds will benefit Sunshine Kids Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to children with cancer. Sunshine Kids was established in 1982 and works to provide quality group activities and emotional support to kids receiving cancer treatments in hospitals across North America. Visit www.sunshine kids.org to learn more.

Sweets Treats & Wine event. A June 6 Sweet Treats & Wine Varietals event will launch the model home grand opening at The Springs at Sterling on the Lake, a master-planned community in Flowery Branch. From 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, June, 6, you can experience a new home than as a party guest. Enjoy sweet treats and a selection of wines as you tour the newest single-story decorated model home

by Vanderbilt Homes. The model home is located at 6717 Blue Heron Way in Flowery Branch. The Springs is a short walk from all the Sterling on the Lake community activities and

95TH BIRTHDAY

offers the ultimate single-level living, with flexible designs and customizable options. Lawn care is provided in this maintenance-free community.

Visit www.sterlingonthelake.com or call 770- 967-9777.

Cultivators’ Market at Shields-Ethridge Heritage Farm. The next market will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. Vendor’s booth fees are $25 per month from May through October. Vendors can go to www. shieldsethridgefarminc.com for an application or contact Denise Temple at dftemple@gfb.org or call 706-3678877.

Low-cost spay/neuter. Leftover Pets offers low cost spay/neuter surgeries at the clinic located at 610 Barrow Park Drive in Winder. Clinic days are usually Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Prices are $85 for a female dog over 25 pounds, $65 for a female dog up to 25 pounds, $55 for a male dog or a female cat and $35 for a male cat. A $5 discount is offered for any surgery patient no older than 5 months (as determined by Leftover Pets veterinarian). All surgery prices include a free rabies vaccination. No fees are added for in heat or pregnant animals. Financial help is available for low-income Barrow County residents.

Visit www.leftoverpets.org. Appointments are required and must be made by calling 800-978-5226.

Hall County Master Gardeners 2015 Garden Walk. The Hall County Master Gardeners will host a self-guided tour of seven Gainesville gardens from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, rain or shine. .Tickets are $10 prior to June 6, available at the Hall County Extension Office at 734 E. Crescent Drive, Gainesville (770-535-8293). Or they are available on line at hallmastergardeners.com. The day of the Walk, tickets will cost $15 and may be purchased at all seven gardens. A map of the gardens is also on the website.

See more on Page 5B. Hoschton Depot grand reopening. A celebration of the reopening of the historic Hoschton Depot will be held June 13 in conjunction with the June Bug Concert. The event will be from noon to 4 p.m. More on Page 4B. Jackson EMC annual Relay For Life benefit motorcycle ride. The annual Jackson EMC Relay For Life benefit motorcycle ride will be held Saturday, June 20.

The route included a few laps around Gresham Motorsports Park. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at Jackson EMC with departure at 10 a.m. Solos are $25 and $35 for two-ups. Sign sponsorship is $100 (gets 2 bikes in the ride). The law enforcement-escorted ride will return to Jackson EMC for lunch, door prizes and a 50-50 drawing. Preregister by emailing jwood@ jacksonemc.com or call 706-367-6170 or call Tim Sweat at 706-367-6142.

For The Paper

A grant for $1,800 will provide an overhead scanner/copier for the archives. Pictured from L Daniel Derochers, East Jackson County High School; Sarah Spradlin, Oglethorpe HS; Anderson Felt, Jefferson HS; Boniface McDaniel; Charlotte Mealor; Will Loveless, Athens Academy; Jerry Legg, Shirley Wilson; Carol Tanner; Betty Ann Mathis; James Mathis

Historical society gets Watson-Brown grant Thanks to a $1,800 grant from the Athens Area Watson-Brown Foundation Junior Board of Trustees, the Jackson County Historical Society is able to purchase an overhead scanner/copier.

The scanner is designed to digitize court documents located in the Historic Courthouse Archives. Many documents are fragile and date back to 1797.

The Foundation supports historic preservation projects in Northeast Georgia through its Junior Board and awards $33,000 annually to worthwhile preservation projects. The board, comprised of area high school students, voted unanimously to fund the Historical Society’s project.

Education coordinator Terrell Austin and members of the Junior Board presented the check to Historical Society board member Charlotte Mealor and president Shirley Wilson during the Historical Society’s May 17 meeting at the Historic Courthouse.

Following the check presentation, member Margaret Holifield discussed the history of voting requirements in Jackson County and the formation of militia districts as voting precincts. Holifield, who spent several weeks researching the topic from voter registration books

located in the Historic Archives, explained who could vote in the late 1700s and how voting requirements changed over the years.

Save the date of Oct. 10 for the 2015 Historic Courthouse Heritage Celebration. It will be held in the Jackson EMC auditorium with a silence

auction starting at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7. On Oct. 11 from 2-4 p.m., an open house the historic courthouse is planned. Call 706-367-7685 or email historic.courthouse@jacksoncountygov. com Learn more at www. jacksoncountyhistoriccourthouse.com

For The Paper

Margaret Holifield

For The Paper

The monthly Jackson County Utility meeting held recently at Thompson Mill Forest provided the perfect backdrop for a birthday celebration when forest manager Bill Lott brought his mother by to celebrate her 95th birthday with with group. Adam Pace served up BBQ for the meeting’s luncheon and Mrs. Lott blew out the candles on the cake.

Braselton Environmental Specialist Yvette Wise, who provided the photos, said Mrs. Lott is quite impressive for 95.

“She still gardens and Bill said recently she was on a tractor.”

CMYK The Paper | Thursday, June 4, 2015

7B

ENTERTAINMENT

Standing up for yourself to take time, therapy

Dear Carolyn: My fiance is starting a nonprofit and does not have a very high or stable income; I also work in the nonprofit field. We will not be wealthy, but I feel we will be able to have a stable life.

My mother, however, has expressed her concerns about his ability to provide for a family, and let it be known if she had her way, I wouldn’t be marrying him. She, and thus my dad, clearly does not like him.

In addition, my parents have been very adamant about what they want for our wedding, have never prioritized what my fiance wants and have not respected our wishes.

In all these situations, unfortunately, I don’t think I’ve stood up for my fiance strongly. He has stopped talking with my parents and tells me I should threaten to cut off relations with them unless they apologize to

Carolyn Hax him and become kinder to him. He feels hurt and upset because I have given in to many of their wishes.

My mother especially has long been very controlling and rarely sympathetic or kind, and I am honestly scared to stand up to her.

Should I threaten to cut off my parents? How can I gain courage to stand up for myself when I am basically afraid of my mother? Is my fiance being too harsh in telling me I should stop talking to my parents, when I am an only child?

I don’t know how to fix this situation. — My Fiance Blames Me

These are decisions and actions for an adult, and, unfortunately, you’ve been denied a chance to become one.

A controlling parent sets the agenda, makes the decisions, draws lines on what others should and should not think (“and thus my dad”?!), plans the events and cultivates in her family an abiding fear of her displeasure.

So, what practice did you ever have as a child at making your own decisions? Expressing your own opinions, defending your own choices or arguments? Reconciling your preferences with the conflicting preferences of others?

The last one alone is a huge part of navigating the adult world: We all have to find a way to share space — a home, a neighborhood, a workplace, a country, a planet — with those who passionately disagree with us on something.

The easiest way to learn these skills is in small increments from a very young age, in the safety of home with parents who let you know their love for you is not conditioned on your doing everything perfectly to their liking, and who give you enough room to make your own, age-appropriate choices.

Learning firsthand from the consequences of these choices, good and bad, is how you discover who you are. That, in turn, gives you the self-knowledge and confidence not only to make tough decisions, but to stand up for them.

This is the easiest way for kids to gain experience, but it can be the hardest for parents. It requires two kinds of letting go: on the micro level, where you let go of goofy outfits as kids learn to dress themselves or of messy kitchens as kids learn to feed themselves;

WORKING IT OUT

and the macro level, where you accept your child might not reach adulthood believing what you believe, valuing what you value or doing what you expect.

This is what an insecure parent fears most and that fear is the root of controlling behavior.

I won’t advise you which side to choose here, especially since a fiance who insists you do X is hardly an emotional step up from a parent who insists you do Y. As right as he is to be outraged at your parents’ disrespect, not to mention at a wedding tailored to your mother’s whims, his asking you to cut ties to your parents takes that frustration too far.

And, more important, it fails to address the underlying problem: you’re not strong enough to advocate for yourself, much less for somebody else. Which means marrying anyone is

premature, even if this man turns out to be great for you.

I’ve mentioned the easiest path, which is obviously not possible without time travel.

The hardest, though, is still available to you: choosing never to learn these lessons at all. That’s the choice you make by default if you keep trying to appease both your parents and fiance. Always torn, always disappointing someone, always wondering who’s right.

Finally, there’s the path that’s difficult now but so much easier with time: getting help and getting the education your mother was too cowardly to allow you.

A good, reputable family therapist can serve as a safe place you learn to tune out parents, fiance, friends and a lifetime of expectations long enough to identify your own voice.

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

About The Paper What do you like about your paper? Send an email to editor@clickthepaper.com or call 706-658-2683, or send a letter to The Paper, P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548.

You can also stop by and drop it off at The Paper office now located at 9924 Davis St., Suite 8, in Braselton.

You can also submit community announcements, church news, school happenings and more to editor@ clickthepaper.com

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

SOLUTION

Valaria Scott BA, CART

Anger Management Resolution Therapist 112 W. Athens Street Winder, GA 30680 www.hopeangermanagement.com

• State & Court Order Approved • Probation • Children & Teen Behavior Issues • Anger Management • Parenting • HIV/STD • Grief/Loss • Decision Making • Anti-Theft

cmyk 8B

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

The Paper

Classifieds Services

Announcements

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

Misc. Services DISABLED - BUT DENIED! Disability Representative Services will review your case FREE. 35 years experience in handling SSA disability claims.

No fee for services unless case is won.

Call 706-335-3309 (Commerce), M-F, 9am-4pm.

U NEED Asphalt paving, seal coating restoration, asphalt repairs, resurfacing. Don’t Wait!

CALL TODAY!!

706-974-8437 Free Estimates

Jobs Accounting Adult Care, Help Wanted

LOST: DOG. Siberian Husky. Brown & white male. Missing off White Sulphur Rd. Name: Simba 404-3998277 LOST: DOG. Red Doberman. Diesel.

Browns Bridge area. 770503-6813

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 Child Care-Help Wanted Elite Academy Child Development Center is now hiring full and part time preschool teachers.

Please apply in person 67 Boone Road Hoschton Ga. 30548.

706-658-2343 admin@ eliteacademyga.com

Construction Cemex is now taking applications for Cement Terminal Attendant.

Applicant must have mechanical background, able to work in a fast paced environment, personal skills, basic computer knowledge, and able to lift 100lbs.

Competitive salary and benefits. You must apply in person to be considered for the position. Apply @6891 McEver Rd, Buford, GA 30518.

Management CIRCULATION DISTRICT ROUTE MANAGER The Times is seeking a Route Manager to act as the company liaison with the independent contractors who deliver the Times to subscribers.

The position is responsible for handling the distribution of the Times newspaper and other products, with working in the field making up 80% of the work day.

Job Requirements Early Morning & Weekend hours Strong Communication & Organizational Skills Commitment to quality customer service Basic Computer Skills Ability to work independently Valid GA driver’s license and insurance and reliable transportation We offer competitive salary plus complete benefit package including 401K Send resume to Dan Beckwith Circulation Operations Manager 345 Green St Gainesville, GA 30501 Or e-mail to dbeckwith@ gainesvilletimes.com 770-535-6347

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

Production

Long Term Care Facility in Dahlonega, GA is seeking dependable LPNs and CNAs for all shifts. Also seeking Clinical Liaison.

Sign on Bonus available.

New production line added to established business in plastic.

Looking for ambitious Operator who wants to grow with co. with mechanical aptitude.

Extruder experience a plus. Willing to learn.

Please fax resume to: 770-532-7757

Contact Tracy Cash at 706-864-3045 or fax to 706-864-4535 Medical Transport Driver Position available. Must have clean 7yr MVR, criminal background check and pass drug screen. Please FAX 7yr MVR to 706286-9615 include phone number.

Position available immediately.

Misc. Help Wanted

Announcements Lost & Found

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, June 4, 2015

Pilgrims of Gainesville

NOW HIRING FOR ALL POSITIONS Including Yard Drivers and Live Haul Drivers Competitive pay/ benefits. Taking applications Mon-Fri, 8am-11am, 949 Industrial Blvd., Gainesville, GA. EO.E. M/F/VET/Disabled.

GENERAL CLEANERS Flowery Branch Area.

Full Time, 1st Shift 6am to 2pm, No Experience. Call 678-943-3110.

Leave Name & number At Home Or Office Pt/Ft $200/$600 Wkly Phone, Cust. Svc Exp. Pd Trng. Buford Office Dental Care Rx 770-271-1115 Breader Operators and Line Workers needed Apply: Prime Pak Food Memorial Park Rd, Gainesville, Mon thru Fri, 8-5pm 770-536-8708 ext 1114 Hate Dirt but Love People? - Come Join the MERRY MAIDS FAMILY No nights or wkends, wkly pay, background check/drug screen req’d, paid mileage. Call to apply: 678-989-0800 Local family owned lawn care company is seeking a FT spray technician. In this service & sales position, you will enhance our customer’s lawns by keeping them green & weed free. Apply online: http://www.got-bugs. com/about-us/careers.

NEED Thursday Night Drivers.

Must be 21 yrs of age or older, must have valid driver’s license, MVR w/3yrs clear record and social security card.

Apply in person, ask for Bob Konkle, Oakwood’s Arrow Auto Auction, 4712 Flat Creek Rd., Oakwood, GA 30566 Now Hiring Experience needed in Ladder & Roof work Call 706-864-9757.

Prepare Commercial grade Service Bodies, flat beds, goosenecks by sanding, filling and preparing them for painting. Experience in electrial sanding equipment and other hand held tools required.

Requirements- HS Diploma or GED, pre placememnt drug, physical and back ground check.

Weekly pay, Health Insurance, uniforms, paid vacation and holidays. email resume to commtruckequip@ gmail.com

Office/Clerical Fast-paced, growing Expert Witness office in Gainesville GA is looking to add the newest member to our Energetic Professional Team. Extremely strong computer skills are #1 PRIORITY, must also have a great confident professional telephone voice; manage a 5 line phone system, and a minimum of 3 years office experience.

This position prefers a candidate with experience in a legal field, law enforcement, or municipality.

Salary=Experience EMAIL RESUME: ckidd@ collisionspecialistsinc. com / Attn: Ms. Green

Trades AUTO BODY COMBO PERSON .Exp’d, tools.

Cleveland Auto Body 706-865-9366 Experienced Tractor Mechanic wanted for growing brand. You will need to furnish tools and knowledge, we will provide excellent working environment with benefits and room for growth. Salary is commensurate with experience. Please direct all inquiries to Tim Akins, 770-534-5000 or tima@ piedmont tractor.com Plumber and helper for new residential & commercial construction. MUST have experience, valid drivers license and own transportation.

770-539-1293

Kirby Vacuum Cleaner $2000 value, asking $500. Exc Cond. with many accessories & attachments. 470-2527038 Lve msg.

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 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 Local Class A-CDL Driver needed.

Mon thru Fri, 4am-2pm.

Drop & hook shuttle.

Apply in person: 4515 Cantrell Rd, Flowery Branch, GA 30542 Truck driver needed for hauling trusses.

Home every night.

Class A license required.

Starting pay $15/hr. Call 770-534-0364 or email ty@paneltruss.com

Stuff Appliances WASHER & DRYER Kenmore. Exc Cond. $250. 770-983-1507

Furniture Leather Sofa and Love Seat Set Used. Dark brown in Good Cond. $700/obo.

770-530-3909 Entertainment CtrSolid oak, 6’ wide w/ plenty of storage compartments, 3 sections, lighted cabinets. Exc Cond. $300. 678-316-3477 Kenmore Washer- HD, Whirlpool Dryer-HD. Sell as pair for $190.

Sofa & Love Seat- Black, Exc Cond. Sell as pair $225; Electric Wheel ChairJazzy Select Elite- New with adjustable leg supports Make Offer.

678-622-1078 SOLID OAK HUDDLESTON DINING TABLE/ 8 CHAIRS $475 ESTATE OWNED APPRAISED AT $700.

PUB TABLE AND 4 CHAIRS $250. 770-6543553/678-936-4801

Lawn Equipment SNAPPER RIDING MOWER, 12HP, 28” cut, good cond., $400 cash only. 678-617-5012

Misc. For Sale 2008 Trailer - Wooden Flat Bed , 16’ car hauler.

2 axle. Good Cond. $1275. 678-822-2653 KIRBY VACUUM CLEANER - $350.

Exc. Cond. Accessories, & attachments included.

770-965-0254 Lve msg

Homes & Real Estate Acreage For Sale

Musical Instruments Electronic Organ Kimball. Dbl keyboard.

New condition. Needs minor repair. $100. 770530-0092l

Pets & Supplies FREE KITTENS- 10wks old. 1 male , 4 females.

Gray color. 770-5340734 Professional pet grooming at a reasonable price.

References upon request. 770-503 4531

Sporting Equipment Brand New! Bowflex Tread Climber.

As seen on TV with “Biggest Losers”. $2000/ obo.

770-519-5468

FOR SALE Just Reduced 45 acres - $243,000 4336 East Hall Road, Hall County 45 acres with .71 miles of frontage along the North Oconee River in Hall County.

Privacy with close proximity to I-985.

Brent Hoffman Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties Commercial Division 770-533-6721/Direct 770-536-3007/Office BrentHoffman.com

Business Property For Sale

Wanted To Buy Wanted To Buy: Timber of all kinds.

5 acres or more.

Paying Top Dollar. 770869-3909; 706-677-3585

Truck Drivers CDL CLASS A DRIVERS needed. Local & OTR positions. Benefits, exc. pay. 2yrs exp., clean MVR. 770-887-6117

*Requires payment in advance.

Homes-Rentals ApartmentsUnfurnished 2BD 1.5BA Townhome located off Browns bridge rd. $650mo + Dep. Charming area and next to lake!

Call 404-643-8302 ALTO, Lg. 2/1, $850/m + 1st/last dep., Refs. incls all utils, . 770-540-6298

Business Property For Rent

491 Bradford St. $13.00-$15.00 p.p.s.f Professional office space - Divisible—1,800 s.f, or 2,450 s.f or entire floor 4,500 s.f. for lease Great Build-out and central Gainesville location.

Brent Hoffman Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties Commercial Division 770-533-6721/Direct 770-536-3007/Office BrentHoffman.com

Condominiums For Rent 2BR/2BA Town Home.

Great location. No smokers, no pets. $725mo. $725 sec dep Please call 770-335-4345 for appointment.

3BR/3BA- All appls incld W/D, Swim, Gym, G’Ville College area. $850/mo 770-639-1201

Duplexes For Rent Pine Forest- Oakwood 2BR/1BA $740/mo. 770287-1456 callapartments.com

Houses For RentUnfurnished 3BR/2BA $680mo. + dep. No pets. 770-5349957; 770-536-6074 Apts/Homes. General Property Mgmt.

770-287-1456 www. callapartments.com N. Hall 3BR/2BA, 5127 Shirley Rd. $825 + dep.

No dogs 678-622-0349

Mobile Homes For Rent Gainesville, S/N Hall 1-3BR $85 & up, per wk No app fee. 1 week free 770-534-7596

Roommates Wanted 3 Rooms w/bath. Fully furnished w/cable) No dep/util fees. $115 $125/wk. 678-328-9980 MEN- Be$t, Pvt home, Furn BR, All Priv + Xtras, Oakwood. 770-530-1110

29 acres on Hwy 365 $9,000 an acres Sewer/ water on site.

Tremendous visibility & traffic counts.

Brent Hoffman Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties Commercial Division 770-533-6721/Direct 770-536-3007/Office BrentHoffman.com

3 - 8.39 acres next to Gainesville Wal-Mart (will divide) Have site plan for 15,000 s.f. retail facility.

Brent Hoffman Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties Commercial Division 770-533-6721/Direct 770-536-3007/Office BrentHoffman.com

644 Banks St., Gainesville $89,900 Reduced - Nicely renovated small office building (900 s.f.) 3 offices with conference room, workroom-area and handicap bath just off Jesse Jewell Parkway.

Brent Hoffman Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties Commercial Division 770-533-6721/Direct 770-536-3007/Office BrentHoffman.com

2001 Crestliner Boat and trailer. 2005 60 HP Mercury .Boat and Motor are both in great condition.

New batteries, new trolling motor , new Bimini Top and more This boat was garaged from day one. Now it will not fit into my new home’s garage, it has been professionally cover out side for on year. $5,500 404-3843642 2012 Pro Guide Tracker Fishing Boat, PGV16SC;16’.Mercury Engine 60 ELPT, with trailer. Red with gray interior; excellent condition. Includes depth finder, troll motor, and live well. Bought new in 2012, one owner.

Less than 40 hours total use. $14,500. Contact Jim at 770-654-7454.

BAYLINER 2003 Rendezvous, 249SD, inboard/outboard, 5.0 Mercury engine, 1 owner, low hours, very good condition, $14,900. 678-478-6659 STEEL DOCK- 24x24.

Party deck, 10’ wide slip 30 amp electric, cleats, swim ladder, safety gates, encapsulated floats, newly stained. $4000. 404-693-4066

RV’s/Travel Trailers 41ft 5th wheel bunk house with four slides, king bed in master, 4 bunks in rear with 2nd bathroom.

Additional outside kitchen, Like New! Private seller, no sales tax.

770-983-0833 or 770-519-1768

House For SaleSurrounding Cottage Retreat Lake Hartwell. 3BR/2BA, stainless steel kit. & custom cbnts, boat ramp. Xtra lot for pontoon, jet skis.

Fisherman’s haven. $114k. 864-287-3032

Investement Property 12 acres +-, 10 acres under pasture, fenced, city water, hwy frontage, 2 rental houses. Call 706889-3262 Dawson Cnty. 9+ acres.

3 Homes. $259,900. 706216-1793

Don’t see the vehicle that “revs” your engine?

— Visit www.

CarriageNissan.com/ used.

There are more than 175 quality pre-owned vehicles listed with corresponding monthly payment amounts and financing options.

FORD 2012 Edge SE, 27K miles, $18,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com HYUNDAI 2013 Elantra GT with ALL the bells and whistles, 40k miles, one owner, non-smoking, grey metallic with black interior, 6-speed automatic w/SHIFTRONIC, heated leather seats, panoramic sunroof, tech package, great gas mileage and fun to drive! Motivated seller. $16,700.

Call Susan 706-265-5873

TENT CAMPERColeman. Sleeps 4 adults, folds out to 21’, air/heat, frig, stove, Etc. Exc Cond. $2700. 770983-1968 WINNABAGO 2015 Minnie Winnie. 31ft., Class C. Less than 1500 mi. Super slide, V10 Ford. Lists for $86,203.

Many options. Illness forces sale. $68,224. 62 706-778-7267

Wheels Auto Parts TOYOTA 1994 Corolla for PARTS, great condition inside, wreck damage on front right bumper/headlight/ hood, car still cranks, only 201K miles on motor, Gainesville area. $500. 770-561-5308

Autos For Sale

House For Sale-Hall County Executive House5BR/4BA. Completely remodeled with all new appliances, heating & air & water purification system. Possible Owner finance with down payment $389,900.

MUST SEE! 770-519-5468

DODGE 2013 Charger, SE, $18,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

BUICK 1989 This car has been a reliable and comfortable car. Roomy and in very clean condition. $1950.00 OBO call 678516-1917

BUICK 2002 Century Custom, A-1 cond., 1 OWNER, 145K miles, runs great: quiet, sound, & reliable. Very clean in/out, garage kept, everything works, $2,800. 678-200-0812 BUICK 2003 Regal LS. 128k, new tires/brakes, Great cond. $3500. 678316-7679

CADILLAC 2007 SRX, $10,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

KIA 2009 Spectra SX $9,224 All Credit OK! Carriage Mitsubishi 770-635-2077 www. carriagemitsubishi.com MAZDA 2006 MX-5 Convertible Roadster-low miles, PS,PB,PW,PL,A/C, leather, PW mirrors, Bose AM/ FM/CD,6 spd auto w/ paddle shifters, new tires and battery, cruise control, after market exhaust. Asking $10,000.

678-714-9288 SATURN 2008 Sky Redline, 32K miles, red & black, $14,900.

678-549-7288 VOLKSWAGEN 2013 Beetle convertible, black, navigation system, keyless start, spoiler, all the bells and whistles,33,000 miles, Excellent Cond.. 1 owner, female driver Must sale, moving... asking $24,500. Ask for Shae. 770-534-5024

NISSAN 2007 Murano, $11,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

NISSAN 2012 Altima 26K miles, $15,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

JEEP 2008 Wrangler Unlimited, $18,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

JEEP 2009 Wrangler, 5 spd., winch, 55K miles, $19,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

KIA 2015 Sorento, 17K miles, $23,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

TOYOTA 1999 Avalon XLE. Leather, V6, 200k Exc Cond. $2600.

706-949-4688

TOYOTA 2007 Yaris, $7,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

HONDA 1986 Interceptor VFR750, 25K original miles, never wrecked, 1 owner, meticulously maintained, many extras, helmets, factory service manual, tools, $3,000. 770-317-6393

Sport Utility Vehicles CHEVY 2007 Tahoe LT leather with all of the options plus towing package!

Outstanding condition! Well maintained and very clean. $13,950 706-429-4578

DODGE 2012 Durango, leather, $25,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

Import Cars

HONDA 2009 Civic, $8,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

HONDA 2012 Civic LX Coupe, $13,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

KIA 2011 Soul, $11,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

Boats & Marine CHEVY 2015 Camaro, $25,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

NISSAN 2006 Altima 2.5S, $7,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

JEEP 2002 Liberty, $6,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

NISSAN 2009 Murano LE, AWD, loaded, $18,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

Motorcycles

Recreation 1984 Riviera Cruiser pontoon boat 28’ with swim deck. Restored in 2011. 1994 Johnson 88 SPL motor, no trailer. $6800 678 525-4003

MERCEDES 1993 500SEL, 183k miles, newly replaced trans., Michelin tires, light tan lthr interior, loaded w/ amazing features, exc. cond., $3,800.

770-317-6393

KIA 2014 Cadenza, $23,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

FORD 2014 Escape SE, $21,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

NISSAN 2015 Rogue, 500 miles, $22,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

Trucks DODGE 1988 Dakota.

V6, 5speed, Asking $2000. 770-7187850

NISSAN 2010 Frontier, King Cab, 4x4, $17,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

NISSAN 2012 Frontier Crew Cab, 9500 miles, 4x4, $25,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

NISSAN 2012 Frontier, King Cab, 4 cyl., $17,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

TOYOTA 1993 PICK-UP. 4 cyl. w/camper, white, 135K mi. $3000. Ask for Cliff 404-520-0933 HONDA 2006 CRV, AWD, EX, $10,987.

All Credit OK Carriage Nissan 770-532-6335 carriagenissan.com

Vans FORD 2007 E350.

12 pass Vam. int/ext, mechanical in Mint Cond. Mileage 68,839. $18,500/obo. carmi@ innobots.com