The Paper January 2, 2014 Edition

CMYK Thursday, January 2, 2014

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Local artist paints special portrait. 3B

Impact of health care law still uncertain

BY JEFF GILL Regional staff

Even the law’s name suggests economic concern.

Meeting health care needs and footing the bills associated with them long have been prickly issues for Americans, but now there’s a federal law involved — the Affordable Care Act. But what financial impact it will have on Americans and the U.S. economy as a whole is unclear, as the law has just begun its rollout, experts and others say.

The law was to take effect Wednesday, including the “individual mandate,” or the part of the law requiring Americans to have

insurance or face a penalty on income taxes filed in 2015. Starting in 2015, employers with more than 50 employees must offer health care plans or face a possible tax penalty.

“Some people are going to be shifting money they (normally) would be spending on other things to health insurance,” said David Bradford, health economist at the University of Georgia. “So, it’s less money going to things like cars.

“On the other hand, they’ll have health care for their medical consumption. They’ll be buying more health care, and the health care industry is a very robust, job-creating sector of the economy. In that sense, we’re going to stimulate demand for health care goods and services.”

Also, those who previously couldn’t afford health care may suddenly be taking advantage of it.

“Increasing the health of the previously uninsured will make them more productive and therefore more able to generate more goods and services in (their) jobs,” said Bradford, the Busbee Chair in Public Policy in the Department of Public Administration at University of Georgia.

“I can imagine we won’t be seeing big swings in employment one way or the other.”

The health care reform law, often referred to as “Obamacare,” has polarized many Americans since President Barack Obama proposed it in what would become his signature legislation.

Beginning Oct. 1, Americans could go online at government-regulated insurance “marketplaces,” or exchanges, and shop for insurance plans. But that endeavor has turned into a huge embarrassment for the administration, as the website, HealthCare. gov, has been fraught with technical glitches.

For those who have signed up, tax credits are available for anyone whose income is between one and four times the federal poverty level and if the amount of the insurance premium exceeds 9.5 percent of their income.

Insurance policy amounts vary according to various factors, including age and size of household.

See HEALTH LAW, 2A

Community members and elected officials welcome possibilities for a brand new year

By FARAH BOHANNON

businesses through the Braselton Downtown Development Authority, Picnic of Police events and neighborhood watch As 2014 arrives after the hustle and groups. bustle of Thanksgiving and Christmas, it “We often have groups of Boy and Girl generates feelings of reflection about the Scouts that tour our department and get previous year and causes people to think educated about our mission. This year of goals and resolutions for the new one. I’d like to see more participation. Our Residents and employees in the cities officers also enjoy interacting with local that fill Jackson County look forward to home owner associations, speaking at the New Year and have big dreams for local meetings and establishing a viable the future. neighborhood watch,” said Solis.

Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly Increased participation in the Braselsays she is particularly excited to ton Citizens Academy (BCA) help the city move forward in all is another important goal for aspects in 2014.

2014 according to Solis because “I am really excited to be a part it is the perfect opportunity for of Hoschton’s growth in 2014. We citizens to experience firsthave a lot going on and cannot wait hand the professionalism of to see how it all positively affects Braselton’s police officers by Hoschton,” said Kenerly. “Our performing ride-a-longs. It is team of city council members an excellent way to learn the is awesome. We have a retreat Kenerly ins and outs of law enforcement planned to set goals and figure out in Braselton as well as starting how we will get to where we want to be. and maintaining a good relationship with I am also excited about the acre of land the department. that was given to us and what we’ll do “Our state certification will be mainwith it. tained and my officers will have oppor“Hoschton residents will have several tunities to receive quality training,” said opportunities to participate in several fun Solis. events and even our 40th anniversary for On a personal note, Solis is excited the Hoschton Fall Festival,” said Ken- to graduate from the Georgia Law Enerly. forcement Command College in 2014.

Kenerly and city council members, He also plans to take advantage of any Jim Higginbottom, David Poteet, Scott educational opportunities to increase his Butler and Jim Cleveland say they are knowledge of law enforcement and manalso confident about Hoschton’s finan- agement to better serve his officers and cial situation for 2014. Kenerly, along the town of Braselton. with City Clerk Ali Merk and the Troy Johnson, principal of council members, have worked West Jackson Intermediate through a detailed budget and School, has just finished his first feel confident about it. The upsemester at the school and says coming team retreat will be the he has never been happier. perfect opportunity to discuss “This has been the most reways to save extra money all warding time of my life. I’m around and gain revenue in Hoexcited for a new year. I look schton. forward to seeing my students Braselton’s Assistant Police Solis develop into leaders and take Chief Lou Solis has big dreams full advantage of any opportunifor the town as well. He has visions of the ties for success. West Jackson IntermediBraselton Police Department becoming ate has a student leadership group that involved in more than just police work – will show participants what a leader and he looks forward to improving services good character is while helping them deto the community and relationships with velop into thinkers. I cannot wait to see other law enforcement agencies. how these kids will progress and how the Groups that Solis and the department school will grow in 2014,” said Johnson. say they want to get involved with include more local youth organizations, local See NEW YEAR, 2A fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

Downtown nearly done LeAnne Akin The Paper

Finishing touches are going in on the Streetscape project for the Town of Braselton.

Decorative light poles were being installed on Monday and stone pavers were being cut and installed in the plaza area in front of Kristi’s Country Store and House of Clay where benches remain covered in plastic as they await the completion of the beautification project.

Library system bracing for zero base budgeting

By Katie Griffin

klgriffin@clickthepaper.com

The Piedmont Regional Library System, which covers Banks, Barrow and Jackson counties, will be undergoing a change in state funding beginning in July 2014. The new Zero-Based Budgeting formula will mean less money for the libraries but is bringing order to a previously disorganized funding system.

The biggest changes for this library system are the loss of one position and the loss of $47,000 in funds.

The new formula is called Zero-Based Budgeting because the library system is starting from scratch. They have had five years of using funds as they choose and taking funds from this and applying them to that, which

INSIDE Business Church Entertainment Events Features

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was beginning to be chaotic. So the Georgia Public Library System and the 63 library directors across the state decided to start fresh and apply state money according to their specially designed formula.

“The losses are hard to swallow, but the new formula is very logical. It makes sense,” said Beth McIntyre, Director of Piedmont Regional Library System.

McIntyre says that the state workers have put a lot of time and effort into this new formula. The biggest change in this formula is that the previous population figure allowed one librarian per county and one per 50,000 people, but the new figure allows one librarian per county and one per 80,000 people.

See LIBRARY SYSTEM, 2A

Volume 8, Number 9 Forum Obituaries Puzzles Sports

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MORE COMMENTS ON THE YEAR AHEAD Jackson County Sheriff Janis order to better serve Jackson Mangum: County.

As Sheriff, I am looking forMy hopes and wishes are that ward to and hoping for another less of our citizens will become successful year here at the Jackvictims, especially our children son County Sheriff’s Office. We and seniors. It is also my hope continue to make great strides to and wish that all of our deputies, better serve you. I look forward jailers, all staff and their families every day to the public servant are safe and healthy throughout Mangum aspect of this job. Also, my wish the upcoming year. And last, that is that we always continue to you will tell my personnel how serve the citizens of Jackson County to much you appreciate their service and the best of our ability. let me know personally of any needs or I also look forward to any new chal- suggestions that you may have. lenges we may face, that we conquer those challenges in a positive way, in See COMMENTS, 2A

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

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The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

HEALTH LAW Continued from 1A

For some, depending on income and family size, monthly premiums could cost as little as $100.

But some people are seeing stiff increases in monthly premiums, compared to previously held plans, and the sticker shock doesn’t end there: There are higher deductibles and outof-pocket limits.

“These exchange plans are not good,” said Rob Fowler, executive vice president of Turner, Wood & Smith, a Gainesville insurance firm. “I think a lot of people thought (the concept) was going to be like taking an employer’s plan and putting it on the exchange — and it’s not.”

In addition to higher upfront costs, “They’ve got limited benefits,” he said.

“It’s a rude awakening for people.”

Fowler said he also is concerned for employers that will have to decide later in 2014 on coverage for their employees.

“When these smaller employers have to start complying with the law,

COMMENTS Continued from 1A

Piedmont Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) executive director Annette Bates: What I’m looking forward to in the New Year: I hope that this year, 2014, will bring Piedmont CASA closer to serving 100 percent of abused and neglected children in our communities in Jackson and Barrow counties. We can do this with more CASA Volunteers. With a new training class beginning Jan. 23, anyone with the willingness to learn and serve has the opportunity to join in this effort.

While we say goodbye to two staff members, our staff is strengthened by the addition of two new Volunteer Coordinators and a new part time person. I look forward to the new staff bringing their skills and talents in service to the children of this area.

Personally, I am grateful for the work that I do and look forward to continuing that work. I worry about Georgia’s children reaching the educational levels they are capable of and hope that our legislators can find good solutions to pay and keep good teachers.

Jackson County Manager Kevin Poe: What I am looking forward to in 2014: - First, a healthy and blessed Year for my family, friends, co-workers and the entire Jackson County community.

- A prosperous new year where we see the economy starting to improve creating additional good paying jobs for those unemployed, generating additional sales tax dollars to help with the County’s budget and an overall increase in the county’s tax digest that will allow all the local governments and school boards the ability to manage their budgets better than in the past few years.

- Building a new station for the Jackson County EMS crew operating the Commerce unit.

- Building a new office building for the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department.

- Continuing our SPLOST projects to pave county roads and improve parks and recreation facilities.

- Recruiting, through our economic development efforts with the Chamber of Commerce and the various cities in Jackson County, new commercial and industrial projects to Jackson County that will result in improvements to our local economy.

- Completion of the Highway 53 road improvements just north of I-85.

and they can’t afford (dropping to) the $2,000 deductible, are they just going to drop (coverage)?” he said. “Are they just going to tell their employees to get an individual policy?

“We may have more uninsured people than we had before the law.”

U.S. Rep. Doug Collins, R-Gainesville, a vocal critic of the law, said he believes that, in addition to families paying more for less health care, the health care industry also will suffer.

“You cannot force the hospitals or the doctors to accept certain insurance plans, and certain exchange plans are not going to be accepted at certain hospitals,” he said.

Speaking earlier this month to Hall County’s legislative delegation, Tony Herdener, chief financial officer for the Gainesville-based Northeast Georgia Health System, said he personally is concerned that the exchanges “will pay much less to providers” and produce a larger group of patients unable to pay costs.

“The term ‘indigent’ (also applies to) folks who cannot pay their deductibles or co-insurance,” he said. “They can pay the light bills and the food bills, but they can’t pay those (health) costs.

- The U.S. Congress becoming less dysfunctional.

- A positive outcome for Jackson County regarding its litigation with the Upper Oconee Water Basin Authority.

- Successful completion of the Historic Courthouse renovation project and opening of the new Jackson County Welcome Center.

- Successful completion and opening of the new Boys & Girls Club facility in Jefferson.

- For the Jackson County Government, working with the BOC and our great staff, to continue to improve on the services and programs we provide to the Jackson County community.

Jackson County District 3 Commissioner Bruce Yates: Jackson County has been and continues to be the Center of Opportunity.

Over the past several years, Jackson County has been able to attract over 2400 new jobs and added over 600 million to the tax digest. Since a majority of these jobs will be phased in over a period of years, 2014 should offer many employment opportunities to our citizens not available in other areas of the state. This growth and development came about by people working together, with one idea in mind, improving the “Quality of Life” for the communities that make up Jackson County.

As the economic recovery continues we will continue face challenges in West Jackson as well as other areas of Jackson County. The people located in West Jackson are still under served. A number of citizens in our area do not have equal access to all the services available to other parts of the county. It is my hope to keep Jackson County the “Center of Opportunity” in 2014. We should continue to work together to bring about the changes necessary to move forward and improve our Quality of Life.

West Jackson Fire ChiefBen Stephens: Here are a few things I am looking forward to in 2014: 1) We are working on getting our second station built in the Ednaville/New Liberty Church area. Getting this second station built will enable our Department to lower insurance rates by hundreds of dollars a year in the Mulberry Estates area in the short term and in the longer term will enable us to improve our overall ISO rating and with future staffing reduce response times to almost all areas north of I-85. It is our plan to have the station completed by December of 2014.

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“That shift to that level in our (patient) population is going to be a tremendous risk.”

The health care law has created several advocacy groups that believe the Affordable Care Act will benefit many Americans.

One of those groups is the nonprofit Enroll America, which states on its website that it is a “nonpartisan organization whose mission is to maximize the number of uninsured Americans who enroll in health coverage made available by the Affordable Care Act.” “Tens of millions of Americans stand to benefit from more accessible and affordable health care in the wake of health reform, creating an historic opportunity to improve the health and well-being of a significant portion of our society,” the group states on its website.

Another organization, Get Enrolled America, advises potential enrollees to consider their health care needs before they sign up for a particular plan, and that many can get financial help through the subsidies.

“There are many ways to find a health insurance plan that won’t break the bank,” according to its website.

2) We recently received our Medical First Responder License from the Georgia Department of Public Health. This new license will allow us to better serve our community in the Emergency Medical Services area because we now have our own Medical Director who established protocols for our Department to follow in regards to helping the sick and injured of our District. Our protocols were developed along with Jackson County Emergency Services so that our EMTs on our engine will be able to provide a higher level of patient care until the arrival of a county ambulance. We recently had three of our members complete Advanced EMT school with three others finishing within the first quarter of 2014.

3) We are excited about our new Public Education/Community Outreach program that will provide more fire safety classes in our community. We have a fire safety trailer that we are looking forward to using more than ever before to teach fire prevention, CPR, etc. As a reminder we do offer smoke detectors and 911 address signs to those families that live in our District.

4) So far as our community goes, it looks like locally the economy is getting better. There are several new businesses moving into existing buildings and potentially more businesses preparing to build. It is great to see new homes being built in our area and it looks like those new homes are being purchased quickly. More families moving into our area means more customers frequenting our local businesses.

5) For me personally, I am looking forward to another year working with a great group of people from the WJFD, to Jackson County, Braselton and Hoschton.

You can see that many of these people love this community. Finally, I look forward to spending time with my wife and daughter. I know that it isn’t easy being a firefighter’s wife or daughter. This year was my turn to work July 4th, Thanksgiving,

Christmas and New Year’s Eve however Jessica was understanding and Ava was too (as far as a 4 year old can be). I am truly blessed with both of “my girls.”

NEW YEAR

He anticipates success from pampered performance goals in 2014.

Johnson is on board with a “bring your own technology” initiative which will allow students to bring their own iPads, laptops or other forms of technology to school. This initiative will give students individual learning possibilities and promote independence – it seems to be an exciting new option for the students of West Jackson Intermediate School.

Continued from 1A West Jackson Intermediate School has allowed the students to help monitor their academic progress, which is called pampered performance goals – it helps students to understand where they may need improvement and where they are succeeding which is extremely beneficial for learning, according to Johnson.

Lisa Doster, owner, Art for Paws: I’m looking forward to a great adventure in 2014 ! Doing more pet and people portraits, making new friends, working with Jackie Weldon White on our book and helping out the various rescue organizations! Most of all looking forward to a day with no more homeless pets.

Mike Beatty, President, Great Promise Partnership: Great Promise Partnership is looking forward to that first class of Work Place Prep. We have about 60 kids in this first class and we look forward to watching their success and the success of many more.

Jim Scott, President Jackson County Community Outreach: We are looking forward to getting new members with more skills so that JCCO can reach the goals they have planned for 2014 and years to come.

Lori Wurtz, Supervisor, Jackson County Board of Elections and Registration: I always look forward to the new year because it’s a time for moving forward. So often we forget that we can do this during any time of the year and usually reserve these giant steps for the beginning of the “new year.” It’s refreshing to feel that along with the new year comes a “clean slate.”

Michael Miles, U.S Postal System, Atlanta: We are looking forward and staying hopeful that legislation will make some positive changes to the U.S Postal System that will remain consistent and lay a good foundation for the future.

Commerce Library staffer: We look forward to seeing more people come and enjoy the new addition at the Commerce Public Library.

LIBRARY SYSTEM Continued from 1A

Piedmont Regional Library System serves 165,000 people, so they will be allowed six librarians. In order to help with operating money, the library has decided to lose the Business Manager position at the main office and one librarian. So starting in July, they will have four librarians. Another kink in the system is that one of the four librarians will be retiring in March, but decisions on whether or not to rehire have not been made.

Julie Walker, Deputy State Libarian, explained that every year the Governor chooses 10 percent of government funded operations to go through the Zero Based Budgeting so the library system had no choice but to make the best out of the situation. The reason the system had not been redone in the past is because of the two factors that state law uses for allocation of funds for libraries: geography (number of counties) and population. In this state, it is very hard to consider the two factors when you have counties that vary in population like Fulton County and Brooks County. When you have population variants as large as this in one state, it’s very difficult to make one formula that will benefit every county. Half of library systems are single county systems and half are multiple county systems.

“This was a much needed readjustment. It will give structure, consistency and professional environment to every library across the state,” said Walker.

Public libraries should be primarily funded by local money, so the new formula allows local funds to be used for operating costs so that the librarian positions will be paid by the state.

“The state should ensure every library is run by a professional librarian so the state is funding that librarian position and local money can be spent on operating costs,” said Walker.

The Director and/or Board will decide who to hire but the requirements must be met.

That way some counties don’t have the mayor’s wife or best friend running the library, but a Beth McIntyre professional librar- Piedmont Regional Library ian. “This is the best thing we’ve come System Director up with in years and years,” said Walker.

Some good news is that the state recently gave $2 million to the PRLS for technology upgrades and a similar amount for construction. The remodeled Commerce Public Library benefitted from this construction funding and half of its new addition was paid by state money and half by city money. The new Jefferson Public Library received $1.9 million from state funding and the city will be funding the rest.

“It’s encouraging to see the state giving funds for technology and construction,” said McIntyre.

The major downside to the Zero Based Budgeting is that starting in July, the state will not be providing new material allocations. The current per capita for books is 35 cents, which has gone down 96 percent in the last five years.

“That’s an incredible cut,” said McIntyre.

But starting next summer that amount will be zero.

McIntyre is on the Georgia Council for Public Libraries which advocates public library issues with state legislators. She is remaining hopeful that their efforts will help the legislators change their minds about the material purchases.

“We need more efforts in advocacy for book allocation across the state,” said McIntyre.

“It’s a possibility (that legislators will change their minds), especially since we see the state funding technology and construction”.

Walker explains that every year for the past five years, funds have gone down, and the library systems have had their say in where to allow the cuts to be made, which has always been materials because librarians say they will have fundraisers and raise the money for new materials, books and e-books. Legislators have in the past given $1 per capita, when asked, so Walker is very hopeful that the current .35 cents per capita will remain after July.

She hopes the library systems will be a state and local partnership where both will help in the purchase of new materials.

“And as the economy grows, we (state) will be able to help more,” said Walker.

For more information about the Piedmont Library System, visit www.prlib.org. For more information about the Georgia Public Library Service, visit www.georgialibraries.org.

It’s encouraging to see the state giving funds for technology and construction.

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business

The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

3A

Rain Tree Antiques & Consignments hosting grand opening Jan. 4

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

Rain Tree Antiques & Consignments is now open in the historic gas station in Hoschton, and a grand opening is set for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Charlie Callahan, who currently has four vendors with him inside Rain Tree Antiques, selected the name of his business enterprise because of the special memories he has of growing on the lake in North Arkansas where the Rain Tree Inn was located. His logo even featured a tire swing hanging from the tree. Growing up in rural Arkansas has fond memories for the man who bought his first antique piece at 19. His parents were big collectors but he was the only one of their four boys who got caught by the same fever.

After 30 years of going to antique shows including Lakewood for 18 years and Don Scott’s for six years in addition to being on the road for shows in Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia, Callahan decided it was time for his own place and the 1925 vintage station at 3699 Highway 53 is where he is setting up shop.

Rain Tree Antiques & Consignments sells wholesale to dealers and is also known for craftsmanship of repurposing furniture pieces. The Facebook page shows some of Callahan’s work which includes transforming a sad, past-its-prime cabinet into a fine work of art. Callahan can see the deep down beauty of a piece and what it can become whether it’s a wine cabinet crafted from a china cabinet or a bench repurposed from an old bed frame.

“We have space for another five or six vendors,” said Callahan, who acknowledges he is particular about the type of pieces he consigns. “I don’t take junk.”

His glass cabinets are filled with treasures including a 1944 Iranian class ring and a unique piece of pottery handmade by an English company. He has military pieces, a baby Hoosier cabinet and collectible glassware.

Oak and mahogany furniture is available in the “as found” room where you can select a piece you’d like to paint yourself or take advantage of the painting and refurnishing services at Rain Tree which include pickup and delivery for consignment

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Heather Lee of The Still Point Photography has a studio in Braselton.

Photography studio is now open in Braselton

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

LeAnne Akin The Paper

Charlie Callahan has opened Rain Tree Antiques & Consignments in the historic service station at the corner of Highway 53 and Peachtree Road in Hoschton. pieces.

Karen Murphy has her Eclections at Rain Tree. A professional decorator, Murphy works with families to bring primitives into their home or decorates to a family’s tastes and desires. She repurposes unique finds into chandeliers or displays gutted vintage clocks as artwork. Her rooms inside Rain Tree showcase her talents.

For the grand opening, there will be food and beverages.

Rain Tree Antiques & Consignments will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Contact Charlie Callahan at 706654-3019 or 678-617-8709 or email raintreeantiques@gmail.com Check out the Facebook page at Rain Tree Antiques.

LeAnne Akin The Paper

The front room of Rain Tree Antiques & Consignments features a welcoming scene.

Other rooms, including an “As Found” room, showcase a variety of antiques from Depression glass to a mini Hoosier cabinet, repurposed buckets transformed into light fixtures and gutted clocks which become artwork. See more at ClickThePaper.com

Jobless rate ticks down The Georgia Department of Labor announced last week that the unemployment rate in the Northeast Georgia region decreased to 6.3 percent in November, down six-tenths of a percentage point from 6.9 percent in October. The rate was 7.6 percent in November a year ago.

The rate declined in November because the number of unemployment insurance claims was down.

The number of new layoffs, represented by initial claims for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, decreased to 1,571, down by 329, or 17.3 percent, from 1,900 in October. Claims declined in several sectors, including trade, transportation and warehousing, professional and technical services, administrative and support services, and health care and social assistance. There were 2,591 claims in November 2012.

Unemployment decreased to 18,678, down by 1,766 from 20,444 in October. There were 22,769 unemployed in November 2012.

The unemployment rate in the Georgia Mountains region decreased to 6.1 percent in November, down six-tenths of a percentage

point from 6.7 percent in October. The rate was 7.2 percent in November a year ago.

The rate declined in November because the number of unemployed people in the Georgia Mountains region decreased by 2,025.

There were 18,484 unemployed residents, down from 20,509 in October.

There were 22,372 unemployed residents in the Georgia Mountains region in November 2012.

Georgia’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for November was 7.7 percent, down from 8.1

percent in October. The rate was 8.7 percent last November a year ago.

The Still Point Photography specializes in weddings and engagements, newborn, children and family photography.

Heather Lee recently opened her studio at 54 Henry St., in Braselton, and the Braselton Downtown Development Authority joined in marking the occasion with a ribbon-cutting event also attended by Mayor Bill Orr and Councilman Richard Mayberry. See scenes from the event at ClickThePaper. com “I have vast knowledge of the special event industry and years of wedding photography experience. I would love the chance to make your memories into art on your special day,” said Lee, whose business grew from a hobby that flourish after the birth of her daughter.

“I began getting into photography when I had my daughter in 2006,” said Lee. “At the time, I was a single mom going to college and working, so it was hard for me to afford a lot of professional portraits. I tried to stage backdrops and props and would edit them in the stock Windows Photo Editor on my computer.”

Lee graduated Cum Laude with a BA from Georgia State in 2009, majoring in creative writing. After graduation, she began dating Shane Lee, whom she had known since 1992 when they both grew up in Snellville.

“When we got married, my wedding photographer really liked all of my ideas, the photography props and the photo-booth that we made, so I ended up working with her after the wedding,” said Lee. After getting her first DSLR, she devoted countless hours learning about the camera and the principles of light and photography.

“I have a very good friend who has taught me a lot about photography, and I am thankful that I have been blessed with great friends and mentors in this field,” said Lee. “As more and more props, backdrops and lights began to take over our house, we decided that it was time for me to invest in a studio. I really feel as though God has put all of this in place for me because as much as I have always had an eye for art, I never really expected to be a photographer. He laid the

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path in front of me, and I just followed it. Investing in this studio has really been a leap of faith.”

Lee credits her family’s support for spurring her entrepreneurial spirit.

“My dad, Larry Worley, started his own auto pinstriping business when I was a little girl and my brother now works for my father’s company,” said Lee. “My brother, Roger Worley, recently began a venture with his friend Joey Culotta making custom signs under the company name Atlanta Artistry. They made the sign in front of my studio.

“My mom, Jennifer Worley, is an optician and has been a very big supporter of my business and always pushed for me to finish college, and I am so glad that she has always believed in me,” said Lee. From the wedding to the babies and beyond, The Still Point Photography would love to capture “The Still Point” of your turning world, said Lee, who encourages contact for maternity, infant/child, family photography or senior portraits.

“I also offer commercial and product photography. I have photography featured on commercial food packaging and national product marketing campaigns,” said Lee.

“My work is grown from love and passion for preserving moments. I have a true understanding of the importance of capturing them before they fade into memory.

I have always loved art and photography since a very young age,” said Lee. “I love to capture the beauty in everything and everyone.

I have been photographing professionally for three years, and I look forward to working and doing business here in Braselton.”

She does portraits in studio, but can also do location shoots as well. Studio hours are by appointment only.

“The one thing that I have learned about photography is that you must be patient,” said Lee. “It could be that you have to sit there for 45 minutes while a new mother rocks her little one back to sleep, it may be a bride freaking out on her big day, or a 3-year-old that won’t cooperate, but if you are patient you will get the shots you need.

“I have learned to always be ready and to always stay patient and calm,” said Lee. Contact Heather Lee at 678-382-9548 or info@thestillpointphotography.com Visit www.thestillpointphtography.com or check out her Facebook page at www. facebook.com/thestillpointphotography. She also is on Twitter @stilpointphoto

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local

The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

CHURCH NEWS New Community Church will be moving to a new location on Jan. 5, 2014, for worship, teaching and communion at Lawson Funeral Home, located at 4532 Highway 53, in Hoschton (between Church Street and West Jackson Street). Service is on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. New Community believes that if we can move people along in their faith journey

to passionately love God, then consistently loving others will be the result. Our vision is that everyone who comes to New Community will be accepted, loved and encouraged to connect with what God is doing at New Community and in Jackson County. Join Pastors Mike McGuire and Joey Durmire as we gather together as a faith community.

Hoschton United Methodist Church’s Wednesday night Bible study will resume at 7 p.m. on Jan. 15 with a free supper at 6:15 p.m. The study is on “Revelation.”

Pastor is the Rev. Marvin Mason. The church is located at 12 Mulberry St., in Hoschton. The church phone number is 706-654-1422. Visit www. hoschtonumc.com sss

New Liberty United Mehodist Church extends a warm welcome to all visitors. We are looking forward to all that God is going to do in 2014 with our wonderful church in the lives of our community. Please partner with us as we pray and minister to the world.

Sunday worship service is at 11 a.m.

Bible study this month features the book of Romans. This week’s study is Chapters 7 and

Born in Barberton, Ohio, he was a son of the late Fornia Grady and Ora Louise Walden Faulkner. He was a veteran of the United States Marines Corps, serving in World War II and in Okinawa, Japan, where he was the recipient of the Purple Heart Award. Mr. Faulkner retired from Lockheed Martin with 21 years of service and was later self employed as an electronics technician.

He was a member of Blackshear Place Baptist Church.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Charles Faulkner; daughter, Bonnie Smith; sister, Nelle Gee; and brothers, J.C., Bob, Ronnie and Buddy Faulkner.

Survivors include his wife, Marjorie Johnson Faulkner; daughter, Katherine “Kitty” Yonce of Athens; son, David Faulkner Oakwood; sisters, Peggy Shirley of Jefferson and Helen Brown of Acworth; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a number of other relatives.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday Jan. 2, 2014, in the chapel of Evans Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Woodbine Cemetery with Jody Smith, Scott Blankenship, Kiley Blankenship, Gerry Faulkner, Todd Samples, and Kenny Gee honored as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

lowed in Barrow Memorial Gardens.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA, 30548, www. lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-654-0966.

The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Robert W. Holman

Michael Sander

sss

8. Classes will resume at 9 a.m. and at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 13. The classes are led by Pastor Whit Martin.

The youth meet on Sundays at 5 p.m. ; Sunday school is at 9:45 a.m. with coffee and biscuits. For additional information about the Children’s Ministry and the Youth Ministry, call the church office at 706-654-2406.

Community groups that meet at the church: The Cub Scouts and Boy

Scouts, Troop 146 and Pack 146 meet at 7 p.m. on Monday; The Braselton Yarners meet at noon on Tuesdays. sss

Died Dec. 25, 2013 Leon Elgie Watson Jr., 74, of Winder, died Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2013.

He was retired from the Jack Wallace Company and was a member of First Baptist Church of Winder. He was also a Mason and a Shriner.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Linda Watson; sons, William Todd (Roberta) Watson of Bogart and Trent Alan (Sherry) Watson of Grand Prairie, Texas; uncle, J.C. Watson of Arkansas; niece, Crystal Blackmon of Germany; and six grandchildren.

The funeral service was held Saturday, Dec. 28, 2013, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with the Rev. Irby Stanley officiating.

Burial was held in Rose Hill Cemetery in Winder.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

munity in Jackson County, where he was born and raised. He became a successful real estate developer in the Jefferson area and was an avid gardener who enjoyed operating a nursery for many years. Slim and Merle were known for their lavish Christmas light display that covered 5 acres of land at their home in Arcade.

The display brought viewers from miles away and was a constant reminder of the true reason for the holiday. Slim found joy in the happiness of others and in spending time with his family and friends.

He and Merle enjoyed a long and happy life together. Indeed a life well lived.

Survivors include his wife, Merlene Edins Williamson; son and daughter-in-law, Cliff and Cindy Williamson of Nashville, Tenn.; daughter and son-in-law, Brenda and Bob Rice of Madison; son and daughter-in-law, Marty and Cathie Williamson of Athens; grandchildren, Cortney Tidwell, Jennifer Randolph, Steven Sanders, Samantha Nelms, Velvet Gregory and Amber Kopp; and seven great-grandchildren.

The funeral service was held Saturday, Dec. 28, 2013, in the chapel of Evans Funeral Home with the Rev. Charles Dennis officiating.

The burial followed in the Williamson Family Cemetery with Steven Sanders, Ricky Conner, Randy Moore, Bob Rice, Drew Bray and Colby Kopp honored as pallbearers.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

A Call to Worship now has a new location in the meeting room of Country Inn & Suites on Highway 124 in Braselton.

Services are at 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. Call 706983-0449 or visit www. call2worship.org

OBITUARIES Virginia Baker

Died Dec. 14, 2013 Virginia Baker, 80, of Flowery Branch and formerly of Tifton, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013.

Arrangements were handled by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA, 30548, www. lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-654-0966.

The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Grace L. Brown

Died Dec. 15, 2013 Grace L. Brown, 91, of Braselton, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013.

Arrangements were handled by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA 30548, www. lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-654-0966.

The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Martha Ann Burger

Died Dec. 25, 2013 Martha Ann Burger, 65, of Winder, died Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2013.

Martha was a beloved mother and grandmother.

Survivors include her daughters and son-in-law, Ginger Burger Moon and Tim and Marybeth Burger; sister, Rachel W. Maples; and six grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014, at Bethlehem Church in the Senior Chapel, located at 548 Christmas Ave., in Bethlehem. Pastor Shane Crowe will be officiating.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Jeffery Crumbley

Died Dec. 17, 2013 Jeffery Crumbley, age 47, of Winder, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2013.

Arrangements were handled by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA, 30548, www. lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-654-0966.

The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Barbara Ann Dietrich

Died Dec. 23, 2013 Barbara Ann Dietrich, 82, of Athens, died Monday, Dec. 23, 2013.

Mrs. Dietrich helped established the Auburn Seventh Day Adventist Church, having served for 10 years.

She was an Adventist for 55 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Dietrich Sr. Survivors include her sons, Donald E. Dietrich Sr., and Darryl Dietrich, both of Winder; daughters, Karen N. Crane and Denice Morris, both of Winder; brother, Walter E. Zornes Jr., of Dover, Del.; sister, Marilyn Robinson of Buford; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

A graveside service was held Thursday, Dec. 26, 2013, in Barrow Memorial Gardens in Winder with Pastor Jeff Westburg officiating.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Auburn Seventh Day Adventist Church, 14 County Line Road, Auburn, GA 30011, 770-995-0811.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Bill Faulkner

Died Dec. 29, 2013 Grady Fornia “Bill” Faulkner, of 88, of Oakwood, died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013.

Martha N. Gazaway

Died Dec. 13 2013 Martha N. Gazaway, 69, of Winder, died Friday, Dec. 13, 2013.

Survivors include her husband, Clifford Gazaway; mother, Gracie Chambers; daughters, Lisa Roberts and husband Danny, JoAnn Lee and husband Stevie, Stephanie Bradshaw and husband Josh, and Sara Page and Timothy Nalley; sisters, Jackie Tuggle and husband Ricky, and Frances Hall; 13 grandchildren; and 10 greatgrandchildren.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013, at Mulberry Baptist Church in Braselton with the Rev. Ricky Tuggle and the Rev. Arthur Sutherland officiating.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Pee Wee Greenwood

Died Dec. 22, 2013 Lamar “Pee Wee” Greenwood, 72, of Winder, died Sunday, Dec. 22, 2013.

A native of Lawrenceville, he retired from R&R Manufacturing and was a Baptist by faith.

Survivors include his wife, Pearla Greenwood; sons, Barry (Angie) Greenwood of Danielsville and Shane (Crystal) Greenwood of Maysville; stepsons, Jamie (Sandra) Crowe of Braselton, Johnny Crowe of Winder and Jarvis Crowe of Walnut Grove; stepdaughter, Jennifer (Michael) Huff of Winder; brother, Grover (Linda) Greenwood of Buford; sisters, Betty Davis of Lawrenceville and Mary (Eugene) Nash of Winder; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Friday, Dec. 27, 2013, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with the Rev. Johnny Wright officiating. Burial fol-

Our Family Our Family Is Here forYours Is Here forYours Mr. James Lawson Mr. James Owner/Lic. FuneralLawson Director

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Died Dec. 28, 3013 Robert W. Holman, 78, of Bethlehem, died Saturday, Dec. 28, 2013, at his residence.

A native of Gwinnett County, he was preceded by a son, Phil Holman; and brother, Lewis Greeson. He was the owner of Holman’s Garage and Auto Salvage.

Survivors include his wife, Irene Casper Holman; children, Sherry Knight and Mitchell Holman, both of Bethlehem, Michele Perkins and Mike Holman, both of Winder, Pam Hicks of Bethlehem, and Karen Hughes and Kathy Raybon, both of Winder; 15 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; sister, Runnette Stinchcomb of Bogart; and brother, B.E. Greeson of Danielsville.

A funeral service was held Monday, Dec. 30, 2013, in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home with the Rev. Kevin Pirkle and the Rev. Joel Shadburn officiating.

Interment followed in the Nazareth United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

William H. Malcom

Died Dec. 26, 2013 William H. Malcom, 82, of Winder, died Thursday, Dec. 26, 2013.

He loved to fish, enjoyed the Farmer’s Market and being outdoors. He was preceded in death by his wife, Julie Mae Malcom.

Survivors include his son, David Malcom of Hoschton; brother, Lillious “Lee” Malcom of Hoschton; sister, Rachael Everett of Winder; grandchildren, Billy Malcom and wife Crystal of Jefferson, Matthew Malcom and Heather of Fayetteville, N.C., and Stephen Wheeler of Athens; nine great grandchildren; and a host of other relatives.

Funeral services was held Saturday, Dec. 28, 2013, at Lawson Funeral Home Chapel. Interment was in the Riverside Baptist Church Cemetery, located at 5995 Suwanee Dam Road in Sugar Hill.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Eleanor Salisbury

Died Dec. 26, 2014 Eleanor Salisbury, 92, of Jefferson, died Thursday, Dec. 26, 2013.

Arrangements will be handled by Lawson Funeral

Died Dec. 15, 2013 Michael Sander, 68, of Winder, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013.

Arrangements were handled by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA 30548, www. lawsonfuneralhome.org, 706-654-0966.

The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Billie Hyatt Smith

Died Dec. 26, 2013 Billie Hyatt Smith, 82, of Winder, died Thursday, Dec. 26, 2013.

She was co-owner of Elder Cleaners and was a member of Winder First United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny F. Smith.

Survivors include her son, John Douglas Smith of Fort Worth, Texas; daughters, Kathy Maddox of Winder and Jeannie Murphy of Oakwood; sister, Bobbie Sue Nave of Asheville, N.C.; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Monday, Dec. 30, 2013, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with the Rev. Terry Tippens and the Rev. Larry Rary officiating.

Burial followed in Barrow Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Winder First United Methodist Church, 280 N. Broad St., Winder, GA 30680.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Sarah Jane Thomas

Died Dec. 21, 2013 Sarah Jane Thomas, 71, of Winder, died Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013.

She was a retired home healthcare nurse and was of the Baptist faith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Thomas, and parents, Homer and Ruth Stinchcomb Pursley.

Survivors include her son, Ron McNinch Jr., of Guam; daughters, Cindy L. McNinch of Jefferson, Sharon Nation of Ila and Mary Jane McNinch of Colbert; brother,William Pursley of Homer; sister, Mary Virginia Pursley of Winder; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with the Rev. Larry Pruett officiating. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

Leon Elgie Watson Jr.

Slim Williamson

Died Dec. 25, 2013 Bradley “Slim” Williamson, 86, of Jefferson, and the Arcade community, died Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2013.

Born in Jefferson, he was a son of the late George Owen and Ruby Mae Anglin Williamson. Slim started his career in radio and the country music industry as a popular Georgia radio disk jockey in the 1950s and1960s at WIMO in Winder, where he was known as “Slim from Horse Creek” and as a part-time performer in “Slim and the Georgia Peach Boys.” He built and owned radio stations in Cleveland, Louisville, Washington and Jackson, as well as in South Carolina, Tennessee and Alabama. He later developed one of country music’s first and most successful major independent record labels, Chart Records. The label eventually obtained an international distribution deal with RCA Records. Slim discovered numerous talented young recording artists including Lynn Anderson, Junior Samples and Ronnie McDowell.

He produced many top 10 records in the 1960’s and ‘70’s according to Billboard and Cashbox Magazine’s country music charts. Slim went on to develop music publishing companies, including Yonah Music, named after Yonah Mountain in North Georgia, which was sold to Acuff-Rose Publishing Company. Slim’s music publishing companies earned numerous BMI, ASCAP and SESAC publishing awards. He published such songs as “Strangers” written by Liz Anderson and recorded by Merle Haggard, who later named his band “The Strangers.” After retirement, Slim and Merle, his loving wife of 65 years, returned to the Arcade com-

Doug Wood

Died. Dec. 27, 2013 Douglas Edwin Wood Sr., 70, of Hoschton, died Friday, Dec. 27, 2013.

Born in Hoschton, he was a son of the late Edwin D. “Tapp” Wood and the late Grace Elizabeth Wood Wood. He was an electrician who owned and operated Wood Electric.

Survivors include his wife, Vera Mae Wetherford Wood; daughter and son-in-law, Jackie and Tim Taffar of Hoschton; son, Eddie Wood of Hoschton; brother, David Wood and Denise of Jefferson; grandchildren, Seth, Hannah, Sarah and Silas; and nephew, Christopher Wood and Joy. The funeral service was held Monday, Dec. 30, 2013, in the chapel of Evans Funeral Home with the Rev. Tim Taffar officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to the American Diabetes Association, 225 Peachtree St NE # 550, Atlanta, GA 30329 (404320-7100).

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Jan. 2, 2014

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Thursday, January 2, 2014

forum

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Flipping the calendar to start anew New Year’s Day is the one day we can all observe.

While there are Chinese, Hebrew and Muslim calendars, if we participate with the world, the clock starts over at the strike of midnight on the first day of the New Year.

Or does it?

Set your calendars back to 1752 when the British began using the Gregorian calendar. The calendar is named for Pope Gregory XIII who actually implemented his calendar in 1582.

The British did not adopt the calendar until 1751 and started using it in September 1752. That’s when they carved out 11 days in September. If you were in England or one of the colonies, which included us, you went to bed on Wednesday, Sept.

2, and woke up the next morning and it was Thursday, Sept. 14.

That’s like Daylight Savings Time on steroids.

The Russians did not begin observing the Gregorian calendar until the revolution in 1918. Turkey did not start until 1932.

Before that we were observing the Julian calendar, named for Julius Caesar, who came up with the idea in 45 BC. The Gregorian calendar differs from the solar year by 45 seconds, which means we will add a day every 3,323 years. If by some miracle they find some way to extend life that long, you can celebrate your 3,323rd birthday a day early. Make a note of that.

And, what the heck, if you put 3,224 candles on it, no one will notice. Just figure, your grandkids will be somewhere north of 3,100 years old.

Now, the old calendar marked Christmas on Jan. 6. That’s when the modern church calendar now observes Epiphany. There are 12 days between Dec. 25 and Jan. 6 and thus, we have the 12 days of Christmas.

But the one thing about

Harris Blackwood Jan. 1 is the calendar starts over for so many things, like birthdays and taxes.

If you die on Dec. 31, you will have 2013 on your tombstone, but die a day later and you get 2014.

We used to sing “Auld Lang Syne” at the beginning of the New Year. In some places, like New York, they have replaced it with “New York, New York.” “Auld Lang Syne” asks the rhetorical question of whether we should forget old friendships.

New Year’s is a great time to think about old friendships.

I had some good friends growing up who I haven’t seen or heard from in years. I have a friend, Greg Mauldin, with whom I renewed my acquaintance on Facebook. But there are other friends, like Sonny, Steve, Gene and another Steve who I haven’t heard from in years. I think I’m going to listen that old song and find those lads and drink a toast of kindness.

It’s a day to reflect on good times that bring us happiness. It’s a day to remember our departed loved ones. Not the way they left us, but when they were young and vibrant and gave us much joy.

And yes, it is a day to resolve to travel new paths: ones marked by kindness, more exercise and less food.

Oh, you thought I’d write a New Year’s column and not mention those last two?

Happy New Year!

Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appear weekly.

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.

Steve Kelley Creators Syndicate

Charlie steals Lee’s thunder For those of you who are faithful to this column, you will, no doubt, recall I made brand new resolutions last year. I tossed out the old ones that I had failed at repeatedly and trudged ahead to new ones, optimistically believing that success was mine for taking.

Let me just update you on a couple of those.

You remember, I’m sure, that in our home, the Civil War still looms large since our people were on opposing sides. Tink’s greatgreat grandfather, Charlie Tinker, served in the auspices of the White House telegraph office while my ancestors packed up their tattered, threadbare jackets, grabbed their hunting rifles and headed out to the battlefields to starve and nearly freeze to death.

Audaciously, I declared that in 2013 there would be a new day of reckoning and that there would be more respect paid in our home for that great and mighty warrior Robert E. Lee. It was my intent to raise Gen. Lee to the lofty wartime status of Charlie Tinker. At least, in our home.

Here’s how that worked: I don’t recall that Gen. Lee was mentioned any more than just in passing, and when his birthday of Jan. 19 rolled around, Tink expressed no reverence

Ronda Rich whatsoever. Charlie Tinker, on the other hand, became a bigger hero, made so inadvertently by my own efforts.

A series of articles I wrote, taking excerpts from Charlie’s hand-written diaries that we possess, made him something of a modern day rock star. Due to Charlie’s friendship with President Abraham Lincoln and the views of that friendship he expressed in his diaries, one Lincoln historian wrote to say that Charlie Tinker’s diaries marked the first time in over a hundred years that we had heard from anyone who personally knew the 16th president.

Then, historians of Brooklyn’s Green-Wood cemetery, where Charlie and his family are interred, ran across the articles so they plunged into further revealing research, telling us that Charlie had testified at the impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson, a Southerner. Don’t get me started on that.

Three other things happened when Green-Wood

discovered Charlie Tinker through my stories: 1) When a volunteer group was looking for a historic gravesite to restore, Charlie’s family site was chosen; 2) the New York Times discovered Charlie and wrote an article on “Lincoln’s favorite telegrapher;” 3) Green-Wood’s Jeff Richman invited me to New York to speak on Charlie Tinker.

Are you getting a good sense of how my New Year’s resolution went?

Tink, of course, was excited. “Baby!” he exclaimed happily. “You made Charlie famous!”

By that time, the sound of Gen. Lee’s name was a rapidly diminishing whisper. I shook my head and rolled my eyes comically. “Imagine that. It took this Confederate to make a hero out of that Yankee.”

“Remarkable,” said my father-in-law when we told him of Charlie’s growing legacy. Then, we three launched into a discussion of what possibly could have happened to the $2 million that Charlie claimed in his diaries to have profited through an investment with famed financier Jay Gould in a company called American Telephone and Telegraph.

We don’t know the answer to that one yet but since Charlie continues

On TV Look for “The Town That Came A-Courtin’,” the television movie based on Ronda’s best-selling novel, to airs at 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 on UP. to speak from beyond his grave, I think we’ll probably know one day.

Like Gen. Lee’s Southern armies, I have been beaten back but I have not retreated nor surrendered. I still believe I can rise from the ashes to taste victory in that resolution.

My audacity also led me to proclaim that my adorable husband would learn how to use a check register in 2013 and become responsible for his own recordkeeping. That resolution, too, flashed and burned when I picked up his checkbook and discovered that debits, deposits and balances were all in the same column.

“You told me to write everything down and I did,” he explained.

Obviously, Tink inherited Charlie’s money-recording skills. Or lack of.

Ronda Rich is the bestselling author of several books. Sign up for her newsletter at www.ronda rich.com. Her column appears weekly.

Like Gen. Lee’s Southern armies, I have been beaten back but I have not retreated nor surrendered. I still believe I can rise from the ashes to taste victory in that resolution.

Hunting for a Guinness-worthy shrub

Letters policy Send letters to editor@clickthepaper.com; fax, 706-658-0177; 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.

P.O. Box 430 Hoschton, GA 30548 www.clickthepaper.com

Publisher Dennis L. Stockton General Manager Norman Baggs Editor LeAnne Akin

When I was about 6 years old, I told my parents of my lifelong ambition.

“I want to be in the Guinness Book of World Records,” I told them.

Unlike my prior lifelong ambition — to be a basset hound — my parents supported this aim.

Their approving tone changed, though, when I told them how I planned to achieve my world record.

“I’m going to break the world record for the fattest twins, like those two guys that ride motorcycles,” I proclaimed proudly.

I had to abandon my lifelong ambition when my parents informed me that I didn’t have a twin brother. Fred wasn’t my twin brother, they revealed, but was rather our labrador retriever.

I’ve always had a place in my dreams for creating a world record, like the McCrary twins (Billy and Benny, combined weight 1,466 pounds) did.

Unlike most of the Mc-

Len Robbins Crary twins’ competitors, though, my dream has not died.

A number of years ago, I thought I had my best chance yet to have my name in the book. Our old house had what I originally considered a large tree in the backyard. I was later informed that the tree wasn’t actually a tree but a holly shrub or bush.

Holly shrubs usually only grow a few feet in height, but this one was about 40 feet high and about 40 feet wide, with delicious, yummy holly berries all over it.

Like Susanna Bokoyoni, the world’s oldest dwarf (105 years old, 3 feet 4 inches), visions of Guinness stardom started dancing in my head.

I first contacted my local Georgia Forestry Commission ranger, who told me that the state keeps no records on holly bush height.

I then wrote the Guinness people in Connecticut, telling them about what I believed, based on absolutely no knowledge or research, to be the largest holly bush this world has ever known.

I never heard back from them, even after more letters, repeated phone calls and a restraining order.

What’s most disappointing is that without an official Guinness Book designation, all my plans for Big Holly Bush World sort of fell apart. Like other holly bush-themed parks, this one was going to feature roller coasters, a holly bush museum (where a biographical slideshow of my life would be shown), wild animals (I had already lined up two cats, a possum and some lizards), and a concession stand which would spe-

cialize in holly bush food and drink — holly bush pies, shakes, pastries and fruit juice.

The visions of celebrity and dollars were indeed intoxicating — or perhaps that was the holly bush wine I made.

Alas, Big Holly Bush World didn’t work out as designed, and I have yet to enter my name along the distinguished likes of Daniel Lyon (world’s lightest brain, and the founder of bell-bottoms), Kare Walkert (the world’s loudest snorer) or Emanuel Zacchini (the outrageous human cannonball).

But there’s always tomorrow, and the possibility of buying another house with a very large bush in the backyard. If you know of one, I’m in the market. This dream, like the world’s oldest dwarf, just won’t die easily.

Len Robbins is editor and publisher of The Clinch County News in Homerville. His column appears weekly.

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The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

CMYK Thursday, January 2, 2013

Sports

B

Hawks to compete in Corky Kell Classic

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

The Mill Creek High School football team will hit the gridiron a little early next year as they were invited to compete in the MetroPCS Corky Kell Classic.

The game, which is scheduled for Aug. 23, 2014, at 11:30 a.m. in the Georgia Dome, will showcase Georgia’s talent laden teams.

More than one million viewers tune into the Corky Kelly Classic each year with games considered to be preseason matchups, giving viewers a chance to see how different teams square up against opponents they don’t normally see during the regular school year. The game will be televised on CSS. The Hawks will take on McEachern High School. The Indians went 11-3 last year and fell to North Gwinnett in the AAAAAA semifinals 2721. Last season, Mill Creek went 6-4.

Mill Creek will return two-year starter Daniel David at quarterback, running back all-star Johnathan Hawkins and a proud offensive line led by Kaleb Kim and Josh Fannin.

David has received interest from the University of Kentucky, while Kim has a host of offers including Boston College, Duke University,

the University of Florida, the University of North Carolina and the University of Tennessee. Kim also has a verbal offer from Ohio State University.

Fannin has received interest from more than 20 Division 1A schools, including Clemson University, Georgia Tech and the University of South Carolina.

The Indians have a few recruits to brag about as well, including Tymashian Clemons, who is committed to Georgia Southern. Defensive end Henry Famurewa signed with Louisville and tight end Trey Scott has inked with Tulane.

This year, the Classic will feature 23 teams. The growth stems from the popularity and desire from so many teams to compete in a game that will get a lot of attention.

“The expansion of the Corky Kell Classic this year is something that we desired because of the large number of teams that are interested in playing and it makes the Classic a weekend event instead of one day,’’ said executive director Dave Hunter. “The games this year are as competitive as any we have had in our 22 years.’’

Other noteworthy games include Colquitt County vs. North Gwinnett/ Norcross and Sandy Creek vs. Archer.

Doug Chellew The Paper

Daniel David, quarterback for Mill Creek, racked up plenty of yards in the ground game last season and will be a threat against the McEachern defense.

Warrior on the mat Marcos Rosenkjer dominates in wrestling while battling through a disease that plagued his vision

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

Tigers rally late to beat Panthers

Marcos Rosenkjer has become the most recognizable face on the Mill Creek High School wrestling team. He boasts a respectable record all while struggling at times to see his opponent.

Rosenkjer suffers from Keratoconus, a disease described by the American Optometric Association as a “vision disorder that occurs when the round comea becomes thin and irregular shaped, which prevents the light entering the eye from being focused correctly on the retina and causes distortion of the vision.”

Rosenkjer suspected his vision could be in jeopardy after having difficulty seeing things from a great distance.

“I realized something needed

to be done about a year ago when it became harder for me to see the birds in the sky in my right eye,” Rosenkjer said.

Rosenkjer’s surgery was scheduled in the middle of the duals season and he was fearful it would interfere with him getting back on the mat in a timely fashion. However, he noted the short time off the mat allowed him to get re-energized.

“I was worried a little bit because I didn’t know if the surgery was going to be during the state tournament or if the recovery period would prevent me from staying in shape for wrestling,” stated Rosenkjer. “The short break gave me some time to refill my batteries.”

See ROSENKJER, 2B

SECRET SANTA TRADITION CONTINUES For The Paper

Five years ago, Tommy Morris, a Freemason in Gwinnett County, had an inspiration to help local families in the community during the holiday season.

While often thought of as a secret society, Masons have a long history of charitable works. Both the Scottish Rite and Shriner’s hospitals are well known for the work they do with children. Less well known is that both the Scottish Rite and Shriners are Masonic organizations. However, the inspiration that Tommy had was to help on a more local level.

Five years ago, the Secret Santa program was started and implemented through the Gwinnett County Masonic Association (GCMA). By raising money through the GCMA, Masons have been providing local families with a special Christmas dinner for the past five years. During the first year, local Masons were able to provide 39 families with Christmas dinner.

From ery humble beginnings, the program has continued to grow year after year. Working with the local Kroger stores, this year, the Masons of Gwinnett County will provide 260 families with a Christmas dinner.

The GCMA Secret Santa program provides families with a certificate for the purchase of a ham or turkey along with an additional certificate for the purchase of side items.

The GCMA works closely with the local elementary schools in Gwinnett County to identify specific families of the community in need of assistance.

See SECRET SANTA, 2B

Football players honored by AJC

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

Doug Chellew The Paper

Top to bottom: Layson Giles (35) and Hakeem Samuals (40) drive to the basket over Tiger defenders.

BY KYLE FUNDERBURK

For The Paper

The Jackson County Comprehensive High School boys’ basketball team led early Friday night but were unable to hang on as the Panthers fell to Washington-Wilkes High School 57-55. The loss set the Panthers back to 3-9 but are still 1-2 in region 8-AAA. “We led early in the first half and we let them come back,” Panthers Head coach Mark DeFoor said.

See JACKSON COUNTY, 2B

The season may be over but the accolades continue to pour in for local high school football players. Offensive lineman Jordan Tyler of Jefferson High School was named to the Atlanta Journal Constitution All-State team while strong safety Tradd Porter (Jefferson) and Xavier Harper (Jackson County Comprehensive High School) were given Honorable Mention.

Tyler helped the Jefferson offense average 42.3 points per game. Tyler couldn’t accept the award without praising his teammates for a job well done this year.

“I am deeply honored to make the All-State team but I consider it a team award. All of my team mates are AllState if you ask me. Tradd and I played on our first team together at age 7 so it so ironic we finish together on the All-State team,” said Porter. “I am honored to accept this award for my whole team and especially my fellow senior offensive linemen Eli Griffin, Ethan Hix, Rufus Whitfield, Donnie Hatfield and Daniel Kimmel.”

See LOCAL ATHLETES, 2B Doug Chellew The Paper

Xavier Harper leaves behind a Morgan County defender for a touchdown in a pivotal region showdown that led to a second playoff birth under head coach Benji Harrison.

LOCAL football

local baseball

local basketball

Hawks see post season play and awards

Gilmartin traded to Twins by Braves

Youngsters take the court for Jackson County

Members of the Mill Creek High School football team continue to rack up honors and playing time over the holidays. Daniel David, Chris Dickhute, Kyle Stepherson and Jordan Sylvain made the Honorable Mention list from the Gwinnett County Touchdown Club All-County Awards. Stepherson and running back Devozea Felton competed in the Gwinnett County All-Star game at Peachtree Ridge which took place Dec. 21.

David, alongside offensive lineman Josh Fannin and Kaleb Kim, competed in the Georgia Elite Junior Classic on Dec. 28.

Former first round pick Sean Gilmartin has been traded to the Minnesota Twins by the Gwinnett Braves in exchange for catcher Ryan Doumit. According to mlb.com, Gilmartin was rated as the No. 4 prospect and had trouble staying healthy last season as he missed nearly eight weeks with shoulder tendonitis. He was sent down to rehab with Rome, a Class A team in the Gulf Coast League last season.

For more updates on trades and games for the Gwinnett Braves, visit gwinnettbraves.com

Area basketball teams will step back on the court Jan. 4. In the 17U boys’ age group, Barrow Flight will take on JC-Ellis at the Kings Bridge gym at 6:45 p.m. The 15U girls game between Barrow vs. Jackson will tip-off at 8 p.m. at Barrow. The 14U boys will see a strong lineup, including the Barrow Knights vs. B-YMCA #1 at 2:30 p.m. at the YMCA in Winder. Athens #1 vs. Barrow Heat will square off at 3 p.m. in Athens and JC Standridge vs. Jefferson will take the court at 4:45 p.m. in the Kings Bridge gym.

2B

sports

The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

JACKSON COUNTY Continued from 1B

LOCAL ATHLETES Continued from 1B

Porter finished the season with 96 tackles, one sack, eight tackles for loss, three pass breakups, two interceptions and one forced fumble. Porter noted the dedication of his teammates, especially those who fought through adversity this season.

“To make the All-State team and be in the company of former great Jefferson players like Lucas Redd is very humbling and a dream come true,” Porter stated.

“I especially want to accept this award for my teammates such as Donnie Hatfield, who was pre-season All-State but tore his ACL, TJ Skelton, who unselfishly switched positions during the year, and Tristen Jackson who played through pain most of the year. All my teammates are warriors and I accept this award for all of them,” Porter said.

At Jackson County, Xavier Harper led the way offensively for a team which, for the first time in school history, made consecutive trips to the playoffs. Harper, who is committed to Kennesaw State University, inked his name in the record books and was quarterback Jacob Lewis’ best target.

“I think what he did on the field speaks for itself,” said JCCHS head coach Benji Harrison. “He is the career leader in catches, yards and touchdowns. To top all of that, he is a great kid and very humble. I have really enjoyed coaching him the last two years.”

“We led early in the first half and we let them come back,” Panthers Head coach Mark DeFoor said. “We gave up several three’s late in the second quarter that let them climb back in. They took the lead early in the third quarter and we just couldn’t come back.”

Jackson County led 13-10 after the first quarter and 27-23 at halftime. Antonio Strickland scored eight of his team leading 17 points in the second half. Hakeem Samuels had six of his 16 points in the first half as well.

The game changed early in the third quarter when Washington-Wilkes regained the lead. After trading baskets for much of the quarter, the Panthers were down 41-39 going into the fourth quarter. Coach DeFoor attributes much of his team’s inability to hold the lead to a multitude of really bad mistakes down the stretch.

“Turnovers hurt us a lot,” DeFoor said.

“We did not rotate on defense or pick up guys in the press. Our effort was good. At some point you have to give a little more than good effort. [You have to] be smart with the basketball and knock down free throws,” Both were an issue for the Panthers against the Tigers as they had several turnovers and settled for several three pointers in which they only made three all game.

Jackson County also struggled getting to the free throw line having only six trips. Overall the Panthers were 6 of 11 from the line.

Jackson County also played without senior captain Xavier Harper who was in Columbus playing in the North/South All-Star Football game.

“It hurt some,” said DeFoor about Harper missing Friday’s game. “I think the guys that stepped in for him played well; some of them had only played on the junior varsity team up to this point.”

Doug Chellew The Paper Jackson County hosts Habersham Central High School next Friday night before travel- Antonio Strickland has been a team leader in points multiple times for ing to North Oconee High School on Saturday. Jackson County.

ROSENKJER Continued from 1B

Latrice Williams The Paper

Marcos Rosenkjer competes against Mountain View in the Gwinnett County Invitational.

He described the recovery period as painful but he healed rather quickly which was good news for the wrestler who has a shot at making it to state again.

“The first day after the surgery was very painful. I had to put numbing drops in my eyes every 15 minutes and it made it difficult for me to sleep. After that, the eye healed relatively quickly. In about a week, it began to feel normal again,” said Rosenkjer.

Last season, Rosenkjer led the Hawks in team points at 205, wins at 40 and falls at 25. He’s been a valuable asset as he helped turn the program around. This year, he finished the

Gwinnett County Invitation in third place -- a nice for finish for a guy who was uncertain how he’d last.

“It felt nice. I was actually confident, I just didn’t know if I was going to be able to wrestle at 100 percent for six minutes,” Rosenkjer said.

Rosenkjer finished sixth at state last year and is determined to make it even further this season. He doesn’t use his poor vision as an excuse.

Instead he practices diligently knowing he has to work twice as hard to defeat his opponent and the commitment has shown throughout his career.

SECRET SANTA Continued from 1B

Personnel in the local elementary schools help to identify needy families and help distribute the dinner certifi-

cates to these families. So while you are enjoyed your holiday season, know that the Masons of Gwinnett County quietly

helped many local families to have a special Christmas dinner.

For The Paper

Dexter Harrison and JR Mattiucci of Snellville Masonic Lodge present Secret Santa certificates to counselors Dori Brand and Joy Burns at Norton Elementary School for distribution to Norton families.

Doug Chellew The Paper

Top: Tradd Porter makes a stop against Social Circle in a 68-0 region win. Bottom: Jordan Tyler gets a key block against North Hall, making way for Tristan Jackson to reach pay dirt.

high school scoreboard BASKETBALL Girls Jackson County 45, North Hall 68 Jefferson 34, Berkmar 23 Boys Jackson County 55, Washington-Wilkes 55 Jefferson 67, Archer 68

Panthers struggle with offense in Big Red Tourney

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

Mason Garland took control of the Panthers basketball team from the moment she touched ball the but her efforts were valiant in defeat as the Jackson County Comprehensive High School basketball team fell to the Red Elephants on a buzzer beater shot.

The drama unfolded in the second half where both squads exchanged buckets frequently. Shelton Kendrix nailed a 3-pointer right out of the break, tying the game at 24 all. From there, Kendrix aided JCCHS for a 31-26 lead and led 38-31 at the end

of the third quarter.

However, the Panthers’ offense couldn’t seem to find its rhythm in the fourth quarter, going scoreless for nearly six minutes before Brianna Love ended the scoring drought.

In the meantime the Red Elephants continued to score here and there but it was enough to tie the game at 41 apiece with just seconds left in regulation. With 1.5 seconds left on the clock, Gainesville sunk a 2-pointer after missing its first shot to take a 43-41 lead.

Kendrix drained a three to open the scoring drive for the Lady Panthers. But, Gainesville showed its defensive prowess, suffocat-

ing JCCHS on its next few offensive possessions.

Victoria Woods ended the scoring drought with a swift drive to the basket, lifting Jackson County to 5-0 lead.

The Red Elephants responded by cutting into the lead with shots at the charity stripe and took a 1-point lead at the end of the first quarter.

Still the Panthers hung close by after Gainesville went up 12-6 in the second quarter. Garland drilled a shot from behind the arc and the two squads continued to exchange baskets before Gainesville pulled away with an 8-point advantage.

With one minute remaining in the second quarter, Garland added two baskets from the free throw line but the Red Elephants went into the break with a 21-17 lead.

Garland led all scorers with 17 points.

JCCHS returned Day Two of the tourney for a matchup against North Hall High School. The Panthers

started off strong with a three by Kendrix but once the Lady Trojans got heated up, they couldn’t be cooled off.

Sydney Cleveland con-

trolled much of the North Hall offense who lived by the three all night long and won with a 68-45 score.

JCCHS is in action Saturday against North Oconee.

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CMYK Thursday, January 2, 2014

features

3B

Time to rethink that tree

GIFTS OF ART

By Sharon Dowdy

University of Georgia, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

You took time to select and decorate the perfect Christmas tree for the holidays. Now put a little forethought and extra time into recycling it.

University of Georgia Cooperative Extension offers suggestions on how to creatively recycle this year’s Christmas tree.

For years, sportsmen have recycled Christmas trees for their benefit later.

“Sunk into private fishing ponds or lakes, Christmas trees make excellent refuge and feeding areas for fish,” said UGA Extension DeKalb County agent Gary Peiffer.

Extension wildlife specialists suggest anchoring the tree in a large coffee can with concrete first. The concrete weights the tree down so it stands upright. This natural fish attractor will draw bream and bass and offer a safe haven for young fish. For safety’s sake, drop the tree well away from swimming areas.

Wildlife lovers can turn their holiday tree into a winter bird feeder and shelter.

“Just add some orange slices, bread and suet to attract birds and brighten up your winter landscape,” Peiffer said.

A decomposing Christmas tree can also provide valuable food for insects and worms, as well as a good hiding place for birds and other creatures. If you love wildlife more than a perfectly manicured landscape, use the holiday tree to create an untidy thicket habitat for little birds, like cardinals and whitethroated sparrows.

Crafty types can clip away branch tips and needles to provide aroma for sachets and potpourri’s.

UGA Extension horticulturist Matthew Chappell has several suggestions for how to creatively recycle Christmas trees. His list includes the following: ■■ Whittle a walking stick.

“It takes a lot of whittling. You can give it as a gift next Christmas.” This is Chappell’s favorite use.

■■ Create a coat rack.

Cut all the branches off except for a few at the top, those should be trimmed 3 inches to 4 inches from the trunk.

■■ Build a bottle tree.

Cut all the branches about a foot from the trunk and put empty wine bottles on them. “My friend in Charleston, S.C., started that trend in his yard at Folly Beach,” he said. “It’s definitely better with different colored bottles.”

■■ Craft a longbow.

“My brother-in-law made a longbow out of last year’s Christmas tree. A lot of bow hunters are going back to the old style, the old world way of hunting,” Chappell said.

■■ Shape a vine pole.

Trim the branches off, but leave some for vine support. Sink the trunk in the ground and use it as a trellis for climbing plant like a morning glory or clematis.

■■ Create kindling.

Chop up the smaller branches and make kindling for winter fires.

Christmas tree branches and the trunk can also be chipped and turned into valuable mulch for landscape and garden plants. If you don’t have a chipper, take your tree to the local “Bring One For The Chipper” event. To find a location, see the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation website at www.keepgeorgiabeautiful.org/bring_one_for_ chipper.asp.

Jackson County Keep Jackson County Beautiful, the cities of Jefferson, Commerce, Arcade, Talmo and Hoschton and Jackson EMC invite Jackson County citizens to “chip in” when getting your house back in order after the Christmas holidays.

Bring One for the Chipper, a statewide annual Christmas tree recycling program, is being held at the same locations as last year in Jackson County – Jefferson Civic Center, Lanier Tech in Commerce, Arcade City Hall and Hoschton and Talmo Depots – through Saturday, Jan. 4.

For convenience these locations will be open 24 hours a day but they will not be manned.

Hall County An estimated 2,000 to 3,000 trees will be accepted at the 12 county compactor sites and recycling center, located at 1008 Chestnut St., in Gainesville. The mulch will be distributed for free to anyone who wants to pick it up.

In order to be chipped, the trees need to be stripped of all lights, ornaments and wire and the stands need to be removed.

In addition to the county collection sites, Gainesville residents can leave their trees by the curb for collection.

Oakwood will collect trees at the vacant lot on the corner of Allen Street and Railroad Street.

Through Jan. 3, Flowery Branch will have a collection site roped off by the caboose on Railroad Avenue.

Special portrait honors couple’s support of college LeAnne Akin The Paper

Regie Kennedy of Beaux Art and Design Academy in Hoschton was commissioned to paint a portrait of Pastor John M. Skeen and wife, Roxie, which will hang at Cumberland College.

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

The idea for a portrait of her grandfather to be painted by an artist as local as possible connected Susan Boehmer with Regie Kennedy of Beaux Art and Design Academy in Hoschton.

Boehmer works with the Treasury Department’s Statistics of Income Division in Washington D.C., but makes her home in Hoschton.

Imagine her surprise to find a portrait artist just a short distance from her home. She told Kennedy she couldn’t believe how close a connection she would find. She located Kennedy on a national register of portrait artists. She is on two -- the American Society of Portrait Artists and the National League of American Pen Women.

John M. Skeen was born March 27, 1899, and Roxie Ann, who would become his wife, was born on Valentine’s day of the same year. Their marriage produced 13 children.

Boehmer’s grandfather was a pastor in Corbin, Ky., whose connection with Cumberland College continued after his death.

The donation of $1,000 in his will prompted his family to set up a scholarship at the college which two of the Skeen daughters and

several grandchildren have attended.

Each year, a scholarship is awarded in his memory, and the family desired to have a portrait of Pastor John M. Skeen and his wife, Roxie Ann, to present to the college. He died on Aug. 11, 1982. His wife preceded him in death on March 28, 1971.

Kennedy had several photographs from the 1950s she used in preparing to paint the portrait. She put two photos together and painted their images with eyes looking forward. It seems wherever you move in the room, their kind eyes follow. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com Kennedy gave the big, tall man warm flesh tones while his wife had cool tones with her brunette hair and hazel eyes shining.

Using the Old Master painting technique of layers and layers of color to create the contours of the facial features, Kennedy created the large portrait on linen.

Naomi Harp, one of the Skeen’s surviving children, said she was pleased that the scholarship continues to honor her parents.

“They definitely had a partnership. Without my mother, Daddy would never had been able to do all that he did,” says Mrs. Harp, who looks forward to the family reunions held in the summer. At the reunion, the family comes together to enjoy each others’ com-

pany and to hold an auction which supports the scholarship.

Mrs. Harp said the likeness of her parents shows through in Kennedy’s art, and she said she will be proud to make the presentation to the college in the near future. She anticipates the portrait will hang in the library where she and her sister, Imogene attended.

Kennedy, a master artist and designer, owns and operates Beaux Art and Design Academy where she teaches art and art history. She also does matting and framing and restores old paintings. Her work as a portrait artist also compliments the stage design work she still does for a company out of Jackson Tennessee.

Educated at the New York School of Art and Design, her portrait work is charged per square inch.

Her studio is located at 188 Highway 53 Suite 102 in Hoschton. Contact her at 706-9830518 or email artwithregie@yahoo.com for information on portraits or classes in graphite, charcoal, acrylic, watercolor, pencil and oil.

“I teach in all mediums,” said Kennedy, who once taught a portrait class in Jackson, Tenn., which created portraits for the families of hospice patients.

Handcrafted bench donated to honor founder of Mulberry Garden Club

By LEANNE AKIN

lakin@clickthepaper.com

Nannie’s Children Garden received a recent donation in honor of Lya Sorano and her contribution to the Mulberry Park community and beyond.

Sorano was the founder of the Mulberry Park Garden Club and touched the lives of many people inside the subdivision and beyond through her business and personal contacts.

Ed Jones, with the assistance of Andy Wall, was commissioned to build the bench by the remaining garden club members. Jones is one of the artists showcasing his work at Braselton Gallery.

“The garden club Lya founded in our subdivision wanted to do something special with our remaining treasury funds which we raised since we disbanded earlier this year due to low participation/membership,” said Catherine Cosenza, a former garden club member and friend of Sorano.

When the commissioned piece was ready, a dedication ceremony was held on Dec. 8.

“Lya was quite moved from the ceremony and the dedication,” said Cosenza.

Those in attendance included Hall County Master Gardener Dave Rusk, who oversees Nan-

nie’s Children’s Garden and coordinates the Junior Master Gardeners program; Joyce and Ken Royer; Master Gardener Amelia Aldridge, Donna Hess, two of Lya’s children, Alex and Tanya,

and artist Ed Jones and his wife, Sloan.

After the unveiling of the sign/ bench and a few words from Hess and Cosenza, Rusk rang the historic bell located near the gar-

den. The bell ringing made the ceremony even more special for Lya and those of us in attendance.

A sign has been placed near the bench to show it was donated in honor of Lya Sorano.

For The Paper

Catherine Cosenza and Amelia Aldridge congratulate Lya Sorano, center, after the dedication of a handcrafted bench placed in her honor at Nannie’s Children’s Garden in Braselton.

CMYK 4B

The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Boyfriend will not commit, so it may be time to move on Dear John: “Mike” and I have been in a relationship for the past 10 months. We are both in our mid-20s.

It started with both of us sharing a two-bedroom, twobathroom house.

Today, we do almost everything together, and over the last several months, we have slept in the same room many nights and had sex.

Mike says our relationship is just about sex and nothing more.

On one hand, I am very full of feelings. Sleeping with Mike and cuddling all night feels great, and I want to do this every night.

Everyone we know thinks we are a couple, but Mike says we are just best friends and free to date others if we want.

I don’t want to date anyone else and I haven’t for a very long time. What is his hang-up, and how do I break through it? — Ready for the Next Level, in Seattle Dear Ready: Men are not adverse to what they see as a casual sexual relationship.

While there are women who will do the same, it is

John Gray more common that a woman’s emotions will be drawn into desiring a deeper and more meaningful relationship.

I understand that you don’t want to lose the physical and emotional warmth of your good friendship, but if you want this relationship to be something more than a sex-only proposition, you should let him know how you feel, or eventually, you will resent the way things are now.

Explain to him that you are looking for a deeper relationship, and then let him know what that would involve from your standpoint.

That said, tell Mike that in the future, “just friends” means just that — without the amorous dividend. Be prepared for Mike to want

to keep things just the way they are.

If this is the case, you should open your life to the possibility of a more complete relationship — with someone else.

Moving out may not be priority No. 1 for now, but if you really want a more fulfilling relationship, it’s time you give serious thought to moving on.

Dear John: I’m resentful of the changes in my lifestyle after my husband’s affair.

He is 47, I’m 46, and we’ve been married for 29 years.

In order to win him back, I had to learn to party, smoke, dance, talk dirty and give up practicing my faith.

For two years now, I’ve been learning how to be this person, but I still wish deeply he would evaluate our new lifestyle.

My own inclination is to keep up with him, although I still fear that it will lead to another affair, either for me or for him, and then I will walk out. — What Now, in St Paul, Minn.

Dear What Now: I’m afraid you have it all wrong.

When you discovered the affair, you should have told him that he was about to lose you.

Instead, you changed in order to hold on to him — and in the process, you lost yourself.

Do yourself a favor and seriously consider moving on without him. No man or relationship is worth your conscience, value system, health or emotional wellbeing.

Dear John: I am a 36-year-old male who is happily married to a wonderful and beautiful 35-year-old woman.

I frequently buy her nice lingerie, including panties and bras, and tend to associate these items with our intimate times together.

She feels as if it is no big deal to wear these lingerie items during her everyday activities. I can’t make her understand my discontent with this.

How can I get over this and not worry about her

WORKING IT OUT

wearing these things any day of the week? — Dressed for Distress, in Clearwater, Fla. Dear Dressed: It could be that wearing these items reminds her of you, and perhaps because they make her feel happy, wanted and desirable, she wears them to carry a subtle reminder of you around with her throughout the day.

Now you wouldn’t deny her that, would you?

Dear John: Is it possible for my husband to have a platonic relationship with a waitress from a restaurant he frequently visits near his place of work?

He has met her with our kids after work hours and at her home for my kids to play with her puppy, and she has given my 12-yearold son (whom she met only once) a birthday card and $25 gift card.

Should I be threatened by this behavior? I have asked that he not see her other than maybe during his lunch break.

He says she is only a

friend, and that I’m not letting him have friends if I forbid him to see her. — When Is Close Too Close, in Denver Dear Too Close: Mandates forbidding contact rarely succeed. When we forbid our partners to pursue innocent relationships, we create an issue of trust we’ll regret at some point in the future.

So don’t go there. Instead, consider explaining your discomfort with the friendship and why you feel this way.

One way to diffuse the situation is for your husband to include the two of you in the social mix. Invite his friend along with others to a backyard cookout.

How he and she act together should go a long way to reducing your concern, or perhaps, confirming your suspicions. Either way, you’ll find out what kind of friend she truly is to him.

John Gray is the author of “Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus.”

Visit www.marsvenus.com.

Tell us what you think We want to know what you like about your paper. Send an email to editor@ clickthepaper.com, call 706-658-2683, or send a letter to The Paper, P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548, or drop it off at The Paper office located at 169 Towne Center Parkway in Hoschton Towne Center.

Bring One for the Chipper Dec. 26 - Jan. 4 Recycle Your Christmas Tree!

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

SOLUTION LOCATIONS • Arcade City Hall • Commerce at Lanier Tech • • Hoschton at the Depot • • Jackson County Transfer Station • • Jefferson Civic Center • • Talmo - Across from the fire department • Drop-Off areas will be marked with caution tape designating where your tree(s) should be placed.

706.708.7198 www.keepjacksoncountybeautiful.org

Have a Safe & Happy Holiday Season

features

The Paper | Thursday, January 2, 2014

5B

Elite Academy’s Jingle Jam showcases talents of young little learners

By FARAH BOHANNON

fbohannon@clickthepaper.com

Elite Academy in Hoschton had its fourth annual Jingle Jam Christmas program at Northeast Church in Braselton on Dec.19, and the directors and teachers say they are thrilled with 2013’s turnout. Almost every seat in the church was full this year, as they watched 10 classes of festive little boys and girls performing.

“It has been great to see the Jingle Jam grow every year. With this being our fourth year, it touches us deeply to see and hear the joy this evening brings to our families,” said April Fortenberry, who is one of Elite Academy’s directors.

The Jingle Jam is the perfect holiday event – how could anyone not love groups of infants, toddlers and preschoolers dressed up in sweater vests and smocked Christmas dresses while they sing classic Christmas songs? And yes, it’s still adorable when certain kids get extreme stage fright and just stare at the audience instead of singing and doing hand motions. Stage fright or not, families enjoyed the evening and were able to see what their children had been working on while at school.

Elite Academy’s Spanish, art and music teacher, Sarah McGrath assigned each class with a classic Christmas

song, such as “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” and practiced with them once a week since the beginning of November during the scheduled music time.

“The children are always so excited to learn new songs as well as the motions that go along with them,” said McGrath. “I also get great satisfaction in bringing the families of Elite Academy together to share in the spirit of Christmas.” This event is something that McGrath and the Elite Academy staff are passionate about, so it is a lot more than just singing songs – it’s about families gathering and enjoying the Christmas spirit together.

On the night of Jingle Jam, each class was introduced, starting with infants and ending with Pre-K, and they all awed the audience with sweet little voices, fun props, hand motions and, of course, lots of photos. The infants sat in boxes with little bows on

Community happenings Leftover Pets offers low cost spay/neuter surgeries at the clinic located at 610 Barrow Park Drive in Winder.

January clinic days are 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, $50 for a female cat and $35 for a male cat.

All surgery prices include a free rabies vaccination.

There are no extra fees added for in heat or pregnant animals. Visit http://www.leftoverpets. org. Appointments are required and must be made by calling 800-9785226. sss Relay For Life of Braselton-Hoschton will kick off the 2014 season at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2014, in the Braselton Community Center. A kickoff rally will launch the fundraising efforts. Register a team and get a first opportunity to select a campsite for the overnight event set for April 25, 2014, at Hoschton Park. Call 706-543-2240 or visit RelayForLife.org/bhga sss Dancing with the Stars - Jackson County Style is the Jan. 25 fundraising effort being hosted by the Jackson County Arts

Council. The competition, which will have local “celebrities” paired with their dance instructors who are putting them through the paces of learning dance moves to make them stars.

Each team is raising money for their selected charity while also raising money for the arts council.

Go to the JCAC website, www. jacksoncountyartscouncil.

their heads as if they were presents, while the other children were able to dance and move around the stage a little bit as they sang. The children were accompanied on stage with their teachers and other helpers, which was also fun for them.

“Jingle Jam was enjoyable. Seeing all the children dressed up to perform was very sweet and festive,” said Jessica Sullo, who is a lead teacher for a 2-year-old class at Elite Academy.

The hour-long program was followed by a dessert reception where teachers, parents and loved ones could socialize and simultaneously ensure that their children don’t consume an abundance of sugar before bedtime.

“This year was the fourth annual Jingle Jam at Elite Academy, and I am proud to say that I have been a part of it every year from the very beginning,” said McGrath.

“I have had the pleasure of not only growing with this school, but also watching the children grow. It is amazing to watch the progression unfold. At the end of each class performance at Jingle Jam I feel like a proud mama to all of these precious children that I am truly blessed to work with.”

Sarah McGrath and the Elite Academy staff are already looking forward to Jingle Jam 2014.

com and follow the directions to vote for your favorite team. It’s a dollar per vote. You can follow the progress of the dance teams on our Facebook page, Dancing with the Stars – Jackson County Style! Be sure to reserve a table so you can be “up close and personal” with your chosen dance team.

To purchase tickets to the Jan. 25 event at the Jefferson Civic Center, call 706-757-3535. sss

The Times presents...

WHO WE ARE

Emily House 5 years

Dr. Melina Johnson & Staff

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: Dentistry for Children and Adults Crowns and Bridges Complete and Partial Dentures Implant Supported Crowns Extractions Dental Hygiene and much more

Dr. Melina Johnson looks forward to serving her patient family every day. Her clinical philosophy is to practice dentistry with honesty and compassion. Dentistry should not equate to a bad experience. Please come get to know us to see how surprisingly pleasant your experience can be!

5122 Highway 53 Braselton, GA 30517 Email: braseltonfamilydentistry@gmail.com Phone: 706-654-2492 • Fax: 706-654- 0073 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (lunch from 12-1) Wednesday by Appointment Only We are in network with the following insurance companies: Delta Dental, MetLife, United Concordia, Cigna & Guardian

www.braseltonfamilydentistry.com

ers x i M s a v Can ead L t s i t r A hosts ng i t n i a P r 3-hou Parties!

BYOB!

$5.00 OFF!

ONE COUPON PER PERSON ANY ADULT CLASS Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 2/28/14.

• Moms Night Out, Date Night, Bachelorette Parties and More!

• Participants take home a 16x20” arcylic painting that same day.

• Bring your own snacks and beverages (BYOB for adult parties)!

5391 Hwy 53, Suite 105, Braselton, GA 30517 • 770-296-2506 REGISTER ONLINE AT CANVASMIXERS.COM

of sales experience

The “Ally” I enjoy building strong customer relationships. I enjoy meeting new people, learning about their business, and offering them exceptional marketing solutions.

I am passionate about a customers’ business and helping them grow. I am more than just your sales rep, I am a focused optimist, business consultant and long term ally.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking.

Don’t settle.”– Steve Jobs

cmyk 6B

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

The Paper

Classifieds Services

Announcements

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

Oakwood ChildCare 5006 Mc Ever Rd. Ages: Baby & Up. $125 770-536-4671

Childcare Kid’s World Child Care I-985 /Jesse Jewell, $100/wk 770-297-1500

Firewood FIREWOOD- Seasoned Oak. Cut & Split. Free Delivery. 470-208-9530; 678-630-2465 lve msg 678-978-0645 lve msg FIREWOOD. Seasoned Hardwood. $75.

Free delivery.

706-693-0099

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

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

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

Jobs Adult Care-Help Wanted Seeking experienced, responsible individual for 8 hours of weekend, in-home care for older male in Gainesville. Call Debbie at 601-383-3714

Child Care-Help Wanted Part-time Paraprofessionals www.challengedchild. org

Construction Bobcat & 953 Operators Foundation Laborers Rolloff & Dumpster Drivers needed. Please send resume to: andystrangegrading@ gmail.com 770-534-5360

Financial Sr. Financial Analyst (Gainesville, GA): Develop/execute framework for analyzing financial performance against budget, prior period & industry metrics using SQL, Sharepoint, Power Pivot, Access, advanced Excel, Visual Basic, & Macro; develop/present monthly financial & sales rpts, weekly BU budget to actual rpts; lead development of annual budgeting process; support different business case & due diligence financial rvw; develop/refine revenue, expense & cash forecasting models/ methods to improve process; establish/ maintain benchmark reports to compare across industry. Master’s degree Business Administration, Management Studies or rel business field req’d. Bachelor’s degree in Business + 5 yrs progressive exp as a Financial Analyst will substitute for Master’s degree req’mt. Must be proficient in MS SQL, MS Sharepoint, Power Pivot, Access, advanced Excel, Visual Basic & Macro programming.

Competitive pay/40 hrs/ wk/OT as need. Mail resume to: D. Pierce, HR Recruiter, Mansfield Oil Co. of Gainesville, Inc., 1025 Airport Parkway SW, Gainesville, GA 30501. EEOE.

Jobs Accounting Adult Care, Help Wanted

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

Classification Index

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

Homes & Real Estate

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

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

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

Apr 2013

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

customer satisfaction experience. You will work with a seasoned and award winning staff of dedicated and dependable team builders and team players.

Primary duties include developing new business while working to meet and exceed monthly sales quotas.

A working knowledge of Excel software, advertising layout and design is helpful, but more important is your desire to help our clients succeed. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license with good driving record are required.

Must have good written and verbal communication skills with external and internal customers, with a strong customer service/satisfaction drive. Need these skill sets to succeed: commitment, attention to detail, organization, teamwork, and ability to multi-task in fast-paced environment.

Applicants should be experienced in online advertising, familiar with interpreting and explaining metric data, comfortable with softwares and technology, capable of sharing their knowledge with others and excited about selling one of the best news Web sites in the state.

We offer a competitive salary & bonus plan as well as comprehensive benefits package.

Email your resume and letter of interest including salary requirements to: hr@ gainesvilletimes.com No phone calls please.

EOE/M/H JOIN THE POULTRY TIMES TEAM! Professional?

Prepared?

Producer?

We are looking for individuals who will impact our bottom line and provide solid customer satisfaction experience. You will work with a seasoned and award winning staff of dedicated and dependable team builders and team players.

Primary duties include developing new business while working to meet and exceed monthly sales quotas.

A working knowledge of Excel software, advertising layout and design is helpful, but more important is your desire to help our clients succeed. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license with good driving record are required.

Must have good written and verbal communication skills with external and internal customers, with a strong customer service/satisfaction drive. Need these skill sets to succeed: commitment, attention to detail, organization, teamwork, and ability to multi-task in fast-paced environment.

Applicants should be experienced in both online and telephone sales. Ability to develop long-term relationships with advertisers.

We offer a competitive salary & bonus plan as well as comprehensive benefits package.

Email your resume and letter of interest including salary requirements to: hr@ gainesville times.com No phone calls please.

EOE/M/H

Medical Employment Opportunities for The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. are listed on our website at www. longstreetclinic.com.

All candidates for employment should submit information via the link posted on our website. Thank you for your interest in employment opportunities with The Longstreet Clinic, P.C.

*Requires payment in advance.

Immediate Openings!

Company is accepting people for the new year.

Marketing/Customer Service & Mgmt. Call Mr. Mason, 678-9715302 LANDSCAPE LABORER 36 temp pos, Landscape Management Co, Gainesville. 3/10/1412/5/14.

Cut lawns with push mowers; trim & edge lawns; pull weeds; dig holes for planting & drainage with pick & shovel; push wheelbarrow with soil & stone; carry & spread mulch; rake & blow leaves; pick up trash.

Must be able to lift/ carry 75lbs repeatedly.

Pre employment drug testing & subject to post employment. Criminal background checks.

Transportation provided for multiple worksites within Hall, White, Lumpkin, Habersham,.

Banks, Jackson, Dawson, Gwinett, & Forsyth counties. No exp req’d will train. $8.99/hr, $13.49/hr OT, 40 hrs/wk, OT varies, 7a-4p, M-F, some Saturdays req’d.

Raise/bonus at employer’s discretion.

To apply fax resume to 770-532-8052 or email it to mar2dec14temp jobapp@ landscapegeorgia. comRefer to JO#GA8145777

Restaurant Help Poor Richard’s is taking applications for Full time SERVERS, LINE COOKS & BUSBOYS 770-5320499

Truck Drivers CDL DRIVERS Needed Tuition paid by Federal Grants or VA Benefits 770-614-6022 or 1-877-GET-A-CDL Call and see if you Qualify in 5 minutes! dtruckschool.com

F/T Speech Therapist www.challengedchild. org

Misc. Help Wanted DO YA! DO YA! DO YA! Wanna Dance No Experience Needed Please Call Sunny 770-536-3759 Top of Gainesville

CLASS A- CDL DRIVERS 2yrs. experience & Clean MVR. 770-887-6117

CLASS A CDL DRIVERS needed FT/P/T/Wknd to haul feed in Gainesville.

Local, home daily, benefits. Must have good MVR and 2yrs verifiable experience.

Call Bruce 678-936-8279

Stuff Appliances WASHER & DRYER Kenmore. Exc Cond. $250. 770-983-1507250 Washer/Dryers Stoves & Refrig.

Mattresses.

Refrig $125-$550.

Washers/Dryers from $125. We do Appliance & Service Calls!

678-714-0493

Coins & Jewelry STATE QUARTERS- 190 Mint Rolls. BU. P&D Mint.

Sell all for $15 per roll.

Call for list after 6pm 770-983-3799

Furniture -MOVINGChina Cabinet/ Hutch w.lights-4dr.Oak Good Cond.- Firm $565 Frigid./bottom freezer, Amana 20 cu. ft. bl. text.

Excellent Cond. $525 55g fresh.w. Aquarium all access.-used $90 Call after 6 pm 678-522-4834

Pets & Supplies JACK-UAHUAS - Very small, breed, good with children, great little hunters, tails docked, Wormed, House broken, new home package, 9wks. $150/ea. Pls text 678-457-9782 for info LABRADOR RETRIEVER Puppies. 10 beautiful AKC puppies. Taking deposits now. Puppies will come with 1st shots, de-worming & vet checked. Yellow, black chocolate & white. $400. Ready Jan. 4th.

Call or text Kim, 706968-9165

Homes-Rentals ApartmentsUnfurnished $ BEST VALUE $ Close To Town Ready to move in Spring Valley Apt 1BR/1BA from $600/mo 2BR/2BA from $725/mo Brandon Place Apt 2BR/2BA Flats $675/mo Great Locations Call Jacky today 678-779-2687 Oakwood - 2/1.5, yard very safe, H/A $645$725. 678-357-5044

Wheel lift. 6spd.3126CAT engine 244,000 miles.$27,000 678-9364380

Autumn Rose-Oakwood 3BR/2.5BA w/1 car gar. $900mo. 770-287-1456 callapartments.com

FORD 2004 T-BIRD. Burgundy, low mi, new tires, both tops. Loaded.

Very clean. $19,500. 770718-7850; 770-869-0020

E. HALL/GILLSVILLE 2BR/1BA. $600+ dep.

706-319-0654 Lula area- 3BR/ 2BA. $750 mo; $500 dep. No pets. 770-532-7134

Mobile Homes For Rent N. Hall- 2BR/1BA Trailer for Rent. $350/mo 706-247-4750 REDUCED RATE Free Rent Starting at $85/wk. N & S Hall & Gainesville.

770-534-7596

Rooms For Rent $95wk. Furnished, all utils & cable. W/D. kitch. 770-561-0781

Recreation RV’s/Travel Trailers

ELECTRIC MOBILITY SCOOTER, 4 Wheel, 500 lb. capacity, less than 2 years old, many great features, showroom cond. $3,600 list price. Asking $1,750 706-693-4520

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT 1, 2 & 3 BR APTS Starting at $570/mo Gated community, Pool, Tennis, Fitness Center McEVER VINEYARDS 1240 Vineyard Way Gainesville, Ga. 30504 770-287-8292

DUTCHMAN 2008 Denali. 31ft. Travel Trailer. 1 slide out, Almost new cond. Slps 6. Many Extras. Asking $17,500/negot. Can be seen at Kamper Korner, 3158 Hwy 129, Cleveland, GA 706865-9591For further info call owner, Larry in Gainesville at 770-5314341

GOLF CART 2010 EZGO RXV. 48volts, fully equipt, Like New! $3750.

678-316-1051

Condominiums For Rent

Hunter’s Delight- 19ft.

Travel Trlr. Good for hunters. $500. 770-5366444

Misc. For Sale

GOLF CART- 2013. Star EV. 48 volt. Like New! Red w/12inch chrome wheels, street ready. 4 seats, cargo bed, full canopy top. Chauteau Elan. $6000. Call Joe, 706-201-2422

3BR/2BA Quiet, Sardis $820/m 770-654-1767 770-983-3579

PIERCE’S PINE STRAW - Re-Opening Nov. 18th.

Open Daily. We will Not Be undersold.

Quality For Quality!

1507 Martin Luthe r King Blvd., Gainesville, GA Across from The Tire Barn. For Nov & Dec. $2.90 per bale.

Deliver $3.50 per bale Spreading Available.

678-617-0403 678-677-6352

$199 Moves You In! Pay No Rent Until February 1st, 2014 $0 application fee Expires 12/31/13 3BR/2BA Homes From$699 a month Sun Homes 888-246-2803 Countrysidelake lanier.com EHO WAC

TREADMILL- ProForm 490C with I-PAD connection. Used 3yrs. $250. 770-965-8765

5BR/4BA. freplc, swim/ tennis. Great Location. $1975.

770-539-44001975

Houses For RentUnfurnished

Sell it 6 ways for as little as

Apts/Homes. General Property Mgmt.

770-287-1456 www. callapartments.com

All Terrain Vehicles E-TON 2009 Viper-R, 4 wheeler, 90cc. Used Very Little. New battery & service up to date. $800. 770-536-0637 POLARIS 2004 500HD. ATP, True 4x4 on demand, Like New! $3500. 770-983-7832

Autos For Sale CADILLAC 2004 EXT Top Cond, 247k road mi. Must sell. All Extras. $10K. 404-401-6589 See By Appointment CHEVY 2002 c6500 Rollback.21ft bed.

PONTIAC 2002 Firebird.

Wht w/gray clloth.

Drives like new. $599 down. Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309

Import Cars HONDA 2008 Accord Cpe. 6spd , Rare Find!

Only a few in SE. Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309 LEXUS 1996 ES 300 $4995 plus fees. To schedule a test drive Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309 MAZDA 2006 Miata, white w/ black int., black top, 102K, auto, $8,500 obo. 678-447-6716 TOYOTA 1999 Camry $499 down. Call for details.

Call Dan JIm Waters Motors 770-530-3309

HONDA 2003 Odyssey $599 down. Sound too good to be true?

Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309 KIA 2006 Sorento.

77K miles. Excellent Condition. Asking $7000. 706-864-2039,

Trucks CHEVY 2000 Silverado.

Ext cab, am/fm/cd, all power. $499 down.

Call Dan Jim Waters 770-530-3309 CHEVY 2005 Colorado Good engine. 4dr Ext Cab. Exc Cond. auto, pwr lcks/wind/ steering/ brakes. good heat/air. tilt, running board, cargo & tow pkg, bedliner & cover, dual air bags, am/fm & CD player, On star. $10,500. 770-535-6718; 770-789-4818 CHEVY 2005 Silverado Super cab. Wht w/tan cloth. $7400.

Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309

TOYOTA 2001 Avalon XLS, 139K miles, exc. cond., $5,000.

941-400-0517

Motorcycles KAWASAKI 2009 KLX 140. Dirt Bike. Less than 25hrs ridden. Like New! Garage kept. $1750/ obo. 706-215-0238; 404434-1278

Sport Utility Vehicles FORD 1999 Explorer Sport. 6cyl, dark blue, AT, AC, PW, PL, cruise, CD. New tires. Runs Good. 770-534-2083 FORD 2000 Explorer Burgundy w/gray cloth.

Drives like new. $499 down. Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309 FORD 2005 Explorer.

Third row seat. $699 down. To schedule a test drive Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309 HONDA 1998 Odyssey. $1450 plus fees .

Schedule a test drive.

Call Dan Jim Waters Motors 770-530-3309

28 days 95

for

30

$

Wheels

*

Renew for half price!

The Times Auto Kit moves cars and more!

General Sales Agents *Some restrictions apply. Four (4) line minimum. Valid for individuals only. Must be prepaid.

JOIN THE TIMES TEAM! Professional?

Prepared?

Producer?

We are looking for individuals who will impact our bottom line and provide solid

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

Callor770-535-1199 toll free 1-800-395-5005

Auto Kit Honda 5x5.75

Adult Care

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, January 2, 2014