The Paper February 28 2013 Edition

CMYK Thursday, February 28, 2013

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Habitat for Humanity groundbreaking. 3B

Motor vehicle tax changes on March 1 ATLANTA – A new law that changes the way motor vehicles are taxed in Georgia will go into effect on March 1.

Motor vehicles purchased on or after March 1, 2013 and titled in this state will be exempt from sales and use tax and the annual ad valorem tax, also known as the “birthday tax.” These taxes will be replaced by a one-time tax that is imposed at the time the vehicle is titled on the fair market value

of the vehicle called the title ad valorem tax (“TAVT”). For the first year of the TAVT, the rate will be 6.5 percent of the fair market value as identified by the Georgia Motor Vehicle Assessment Manual.

The TAVT is applicable to dealer and casual sales but excludes non-titled vehicles such as trailers and other non-motorized vehicles which will remain subject to ad valorem tax.

Vehicles owned prior to Jan. 1, 2012, will stay in the old system and owners can expect to owe the annual ad valorem tax on their birthday. The period between Jan, 1, 2012, and Feb, 28, 2013, is considered an opt-in period. Vehicles purchased during this period may opt-in to the new TAVT system or they can stay in the annual ad valorem system.

The Georgia Department of Revenue’s website www.newtitletax.com provides a

Atypical day at the lake

TAVT calculator that will help owners decide which option is best for them.

Owners who choose to opt-in to the TAVT system will need to go to their local county tag office at any time between March 1 and Dec. 31 to do so.

To view frequently asked questions concerning the new TAVT system or to use the calculator, visit the Georgia Department of Revenue website www.newtitletax.com.

Man with gun prompts afterschool events to be cancelled

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Clairborne Jordan captured Humane Society president Roxane Rose’s plunge into Crow’s Lake on Saturday; Debbie Purvis snapped Rose and Jake, her dog, exiting the cold water.

Plunging in for Jackson County’s animal shelter

By Roxane Rose

Regional staff

The water was a frigid 41 degrees and the air temperature not much higher – certainly not anywhere near the 60-plus degrees that was originally forecast for Saturday, Feb. 23. The Jackson County dive team was on hand, including two of them tied off to the dock and one with a huge underwater light strapped to his head. Two county EMS vehicles were on standby as was the fire and rescue truck.

It was at that point that I began to wonder just what on earth I had gotten myself into! As the second “plunger,” it didn’t take long to find out. Thankfully, I am still here to tell the tale.

The event was Plunge for Paws. The goal was to raise money for the first animal shelter in Jackson County. The

Among the spectators was Abby Bragg, of Hoschton, who bundled up Sprinkles for the event. method to get there was for 12 community leaders to go jump in the lake – Crow’s Lake, that is, in Jefferson. A wintertime plunge. How fun! For the people watching, that is.

The Plunge was a project of the 2013 Leadership Jackson class. Leadership Jackson is a program of the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce; the principle purpose is to build a network of community leaders who can enhance their problem-solving skills and leadership abilities through shared perspectives and by working together.

The hope is for members of the class to become champions for others and themselves in continuing to make Jackson County a wonderful place to live.

As part of the class, members are challenged to come up with a community project and implement it.

Boy, did the 2013 class outdo themselves.

Comprising this year’s class are Alex Branch, Diontia Cornell, Robin Daniel,

See PLUNGE, page 3A

Reception to honor George Cindy George, who has served as city clerk/administrator of the city of Hoschton for almost three years, will be honored at a 6 p.m. Thursday reception.

George is leaving the clerk’s position to become the chief accountant for Jackson County. She reports to her new job March 4.

George said she leaves Hoschton on a good note.

“I’m proud of what I’ve done here,” said George. The records project, which lacks only the decade of the 1990s to be complete, is a point of pride, thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers.

Councilman Jim Cleveland credits George’s professionalism and organizational skills for helping getting city hall operations squared away and putting the city into

the right path as it continues to cope in the aftermath of the financial downturn which left Hoschton in a dire economic condition.

“I have learned so much,” said George, who is looking forward to the challenge ahead with Jackson County.

She is returning to accounting, one of her previous careers.

See ClickThePaper.com

Threats of a man with a gun in the vicinity prompted East Jackson Elementary School and East Jackson High School to cancel after-school activities on Tuesday afternoon.

A traffic stop for erratic driving led to a man hunt in area of South Apple Valley Road and Potts Road in Jefferson. An officer initiated the traffic stop on Hoods Mill Road but, as he got out of his car and approached the vehicle, the driver sped off almost hitting another car.

The man abandoned his vehicle along Apple Valley Road and attempted to run. As the officer found the man’s vehicle, he heard gunshots.

Due to the proximity to East Jackson schools, after programs, including a chorus concert at EJHS, were cancelled.

“We just didn’t know exactly where he was, and we didn’t want to take any chances,” said Jackson County Sheriff Janis Mangum. “We knew he had a gun with him.”

Canine units were brought in, and the man was eventually found around 6:30 p.m. in a swampy area off Potts Road and placed under arrest. He had with him a .308 rifle, which is commonly used for military sniping and police sharpshooting.

The man was later found to be wanted out of Banks County for armed robbery, and was in a stolen vehicle.

He is currently being held at the Jackson County Jail.

Congestion at 53 and I-85 to be addressed

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Cindy George

The congestion on state Highway 53 on the north side of Interstate 85 may soon be a problem of the past.

Jackson County and the Town of Braselton are teaming up with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to help remedy traffic problems.

According to Jackson County Manager Kevin Poe, changes will include

additional turn lanes and traffic signals at Chardonnay Trace and Braselton Parkway.

“We’re already obligated to put a traffic signal at Braselton Parkway,” said Poe. “That was an agreement we made with Carter’s when they decided to locate there.”

Carter’s is expected to further increase area traffic because it will employ an estimated 1,000 people.

See CONGESTION, page 2A

Safe environment at Jackson Co. Schools is Stewart’s responsibility

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Growth in Jackson County is undeniable. With 14 schools and talks of another high school in the works, Jackson County School System (JCSS) recently added a new position to its ranks.

As the newest member of JCSS, Bill Stewart is settling into his role as Director of Safety, Security and Activities.

Stewart began his work in the newly-

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created position Feb. 1.

“Being here a week, a lot of what’s been going on now is really assessing things and really kind of getting a grip on the lay of the land,” he said of his experience so far.

Stewart’s responsibilities include coordinating with school officials and law enforcement agencies in regards to safety and security and serving as a liaison for student activities.

“At the end of the day, we’re creat-

Volume 7, Number 17 Pastor’s Pen 4A Police report 2A Puzzles 6B Schools 5B, 7B Sports 102B

ing kids that know how to be successful through leadership, character and performance and a big part of that, first of all – priority one, is a safe environment,” Stewart said. “On top of that, you want the kids to be enriched by having great activities to be involved in, and helping with the coordination of that and building those programs.”

Prior to assuming his role in JCSS,

See SCHOOLS, page 3A

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Katie Justice The Paper

Bill Stewart introduces himself at the Feb. 7 Board of Education work session and community meeting at Kings Bridge Middle School.

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The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

Burglary suspect in custody again

Briefly ■■ The Braselton Town Council will hold its annual strategic planning session from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, March 1, in the community room, located in the rear of the Police & Municipal Court building at 5040 Highway 53.

From 2-4 p.m., the council has invited members of the Braselton Downtown Development Authority, the Urban Redevelopment Agency, Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and Visitors Bureau Authority for discussions about their visions and goals.

Banks County Sheriff Carlton Speed requested assistance from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office the week of Feb. 13 with the execution of a search warrant on Sears Drive in Maysville.

The search warrant was in connection with a burglary that had occurred in Banks County.

The suspect’s house is located in Jackson County.

The search resulted in the arrest of Brandon Shawn Lawson, 27, and Scottie Andrew Lawson, 45. Charges filed by Banks County against the pair include burglary, theft by taking of a motor vehicle and theft by receiving. They were transported to the Jackson County Jail, due to outstanding warrants in Hall County.

■■ The meeting called for Feb. 25 for the Jackson County Board of Commissioners to discuss the West Jackson EMS station was cancelled.

The funeral service for Rena Powers Crow, mother of Commission Chairman Tom Crow, was held Monday so the meeting will be scheduled, according to County Manager Kevin Poe.

On Thursday, Feb. 21, victims of the Sears Drive burglary were in a Commerce pawn shop when the younger suspect came in attempting to sell a leaf blower. Also in the shop on a different matter was a Jackson County investigator, who was alerted of the situation by the victims.

The investigator conducted an interview with Lawson that lead to him being again arrested. Lawson was arrested for violation of the Georgia Controlled Substance Act, pills not in original container and suspended license. Lawson remains in custody in the Jackson County Jail and there is another hold for Hall County Sheriff’s Office.

Cast vote for the Dragons’ mascot

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

The Jefferson Dragon is facing some pretty steep competition, but instead of the athletes taking the field, the mascot is taking it’s time in the spotlight with the “USA Today High School Sports Most Unique Mascot Contest.”

The JHS Dragon was one of 255 high school mascots chosen by the USA Today High School Sports staff to compete to earn the school’s athletic department money.

Competition begins at the state level with five mascots. Individuals can cast their votes online for top mascot through March 5. The winners from each state will then advance to the second round, which will divide state winners into six regions and voting will last from

March 6-14. Regional winners then compete for the title of best high school sports mascot in America from March 15-25.

The national winner will receive $2,000 for its athletic department. Second place will earn $1,000, third will earn $500, fourth will receive $250, and fifth place will receive $100.

At the state level Jefferson is facing off against the Gainesville Red Elephants, the Clarkston Angoras, the Johnson Atom Smashers, and the Warner Robins Demons.

As of Feb 26, Jefferson was in the lead with almost 59 percent of votes, that’s almost 6,000 votes, in their favor, with the next closest mascot, the Red Elephants, at 35 percent.

To vote for Jefferson, visit http://contest. usatodayhss.com/vote/mascot/ga.

POLICE REPORT Braselton Police ■■ A vehicle was pulled over Feb. 19 for failing to maintain its lane while traveling on Thompson Mill Road. The driver was arrested for a Gwinnett County warrant, and was also charged with having no proof of insurance.

■■ On Feb. 19, a driver headed northbound on Interstate 85 was pulled over for failure to signal while changing lanes. A smell of burnt marijuana coming from the car led to a search of a vehicle, which turned up a glass pipe and a green leafy substance. The driver was believed to be too impaired to drive and was charged with driving under the influence, misdemeanor possession of marijuana and failure to signal when turning or changing lanes.

■■ On Feb. 19, a South Carolina man who suffered from a heart condition was found on the floor in the Pilot travel center bathroom on Highway 53. A store clerk attempted to give the man CPR because he was not breathing, but did have a pulse. The man was pronounced dead at Barrow Regional Hospital.

■■ After a dispute over work and pay, a missing trailer from a Lawrenceville business was found at a Highway 53 location on Feb. 19. The trailer’s owner reported more than $700 worth of tarps, a new brake chamber and LED taillights missing.

■■ On Feb. 19, a driver almost caused a wreck by pulling out in front of another vehicle on Highway 211, and was

found to be driving under the influence of alcohol.

The driver was placed under arrest and was also charged with driving while his license was suspended and failure to yield when turning left.

■■ A Red Mulberry Lane resident reported receiving harassing phone calls Feb. 22 from an unknown male who was trying to get her to pay for an electric bill over the phone using her credit card.

■■ On Feb. 23, a driver was stopped on Lec Stone Road at Highway 211 for speeding. He was found to be driving under the influence and was placed under arrest.

■■ A laptop and several related items along with two birth certificates were reported stolen from a vehicle parked at a Mossy Oak Landing home on Feb. 23.

■■ On Feb. 23, a vehicle was reported abandoned and partially blocking the roadway on Josh Pirkle Road. The vehicle was towed.

■■ A vehicle traveling on Highway 53 was pulled over Feb. 23 for seat belt violations. The officer became suspicious of the odd actions of the passengers, and conducted a search of the vehicle. Three bags of marijuana and a small scale were found, and the driver was placed under arrest for the possession of marijuana more than one ounce.

■■ On Feb. 24 at about 8 p.m., a vehicle entering Highway 211 from a gas station was stopped for not having headlights on. The driver and passenger’s suspicious demeanors led to a search

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of the vehicle. Officers found a plastic bag with 16 white tablets, a small digital scale and a bag of marijuana. The passenger claimed possession of the marijuana, but both the driver and passenger denied knowledge of the tablets. The passenger was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana less than one ounce and possession of a Schedule 4 drug, and the driver was arrested on charges of possession of a Schedule 4 drug.

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office ■■ A man driving on Highway 129 and almost hit a guard rail was arrested Feb. 24 for having an open container in the vehicle.

■■ On Feb. 24, a verbal dispute at a Holiday Cemetery Road home led to the arrest of a man for disorderly conduct.

■■ A man sitting outside

CONGESTION Continued from 1A

However, the light at Braselton Parkway has been put on hold until GDOT establishes funding, so that all projects can take place at the same time.

“The good thing is right now the state is saying they would pick up 70 percent of the cost,” said Poe of the project which is expected to cost about $1 million. “So I think they realize it’s a problem, too. Technically, Highway 53 is a state route, and they should be responsible for it, but they’ve only got so much money to go around. Here recently it’s been hard to get money from the DOT, but I think they see that it’s an area of concern that needs to be addressed.”

To help with the congestion from tractor trailers exiting the Pilot station, Poe said they are hoping to work with Pilot.

“We can’t just go in there and shut down entrances,” he said. “The plan is hopefully they’ll work with us and if they’ll route the trucks out the back, and they’ll come back in on Chardonnay Trace.”

While the project has been submitted, it is still waiting on formal approval. However, Poe says that if the project gets approved, in a best case scenario work will be complete within nine months.

Hoschton woman caught in poaching sting From staff reports

After executing warrants in a multistate bear poaching sting, authorities had arrested seven Georgians, including a Hoschton woman, by Friday.

Brent Thomas, 39, of Cleveland. faces more than 100 poaching charges in seven counties, including unlawful use of bear bait, possession of illegally taken wildlife, littering, possession of a firearm on a closed wildlife management area, hunting from a motor vehicle and hunting deer at night.

Col. Eddie Henderson, law enforcement chief for the Georgia Wildlife Resources Commission, on last week had described Thomas as being a “true hard-core poacher.” He may face federal charges.

a vacant gas station in Jefferson just after 2 a.m. was placed under arrest Feb. 24 and charged with carrying a concealed weapon, loitering and prowling and being a pedestrian under the influence.

■■ A Ramblers Inn Road resident reported a neighbor’s dog attacking his dog on Feb. 24.

■■ On Feb. 23, a woman feeding her horses in a pasture on Double Bridges Road returned to her vehicle to find a window busted out. All her medication and $360 was stolen from her car.

■■ A Carlton Way resident in Jefferson reported her car tag stolen on Feb. 23.

■■ Around 10:40 p.m. on Feb. 23, a man driving erratically on Interstate 85 was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. After repeatedly attempted to return to his vehicle and ignoring the officers, he was placed under attest and also charged with obstruction

Nicknamed “Operation Something Bruin,” the four-year investigation was carried out by the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Georgia Wildlife Resources Division and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

In addition to Thomas, several others face similar charges including Cindy Clanton, Hoschton, 43, who was charged with five offenses including hunting deer at night and hunting in a closed wildlife management area.

Also arrested on related charges was George Stone, 43, of Crawfordville, Rondal Westmoreland, 65, of Cleveland, Cale Stancil, 40, Walter Stancil, 65, and Jerry Parker, 61, all of Rabun Gap, and Jack Billingsley, 69, of North Carolina.

Most of the hunting violations occurred in Rabun, Lumpkin and White counties.

of officers, failure to maintain lane, following too close and having open containers in the car.

■■ On Feb. 23, a suspicious vehicle was reported in Hummingbird Court in Jefferson.

■■ A woman reported identity theft Feb. 23 after learning her debit card was being used in several places in Michigan.

■■ On Feb. 22, a Jefferson man reported receiving harassing phone calls from his brother-in-law in Florida.

■■ A woman reported damage to her yard Feb. 22 after a neighbor parked on her property and became stuck in the soft ground. The man reportedly spun his tires trying to remove his vehicle, and eventually the vehicle slid down a hill.

■■ On Feb. 21, a driver reported seeing a naked male walking around a Legg Road home. The resident was told to keep his doors and windows

closed if he is going to be walking around unclothed.

■■ A driver reported damage to her vehicle when a rock struck her windshield causing a crack on Feb. 22.

■■ On Feb. 21, a resident at a Whitney Road mobile home park reported someone had entered his vehicle and possibly taken items.

■■ A woman reported her fiancé’s sister had sent her threatening text messages and left threatening voicemails on Feb. 21.

The sister had taken her brother’s truck without his permission. The couple removed the truck, and the sister became upset and began threatening the woman.

■■ On Feb. 20, a man driving on Jackson Trail Road was arrested for driving on a suspended license and having no proof of insurance.

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The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

Claiborne Jordan For The Paper

Claiborne Jordan and Debbie Purvis For The Paper

From nice dives to a flip attempt by Theresa Kenerly, participants showed their stuff. Kenerly got a thumbs up from one of the dive team members. More at ClickThePaper.com

Colton Green, director of Jefferson Parks & Recreation, did a beautiful cannonball for his plunge; Doing the “YMCA”; some of the Leadership Jackson class; Rob Alexander’s face says it all as he wades out of Crow’s Lake.

PLUNGE

Continued from 1A Chris Foster, Joe Godfrey, Claibourne Jordan, Beth McIntyre, Erin Moore, Priscilla Murphy, Nicole Parker, Kevin Poe, Scott Rodgers, Jeremy Smith, Vicki Starnes and Lisa Stephens.

While this is the smallest Leadership class in the history of this program for the Jackson chamber, members also created and implemented the largest-earning project – Plunge for Paws – to date.

Although I am a writer, it is a great challenge for me to put into words the experience of jumping into wintry waters in February. (Anything printable, anyway!) In a word – indescribable.

Other than not being able to catch my breath when I first came up out of the water, it actually wasn’t that bad. Perhaps, though, it is

like childbirth and I have just retained the fun part. It was a truly amazing experience to share with one of my dogs, Jake, who was such a great sport in joining me in the jump.

It was well worth it. This awesome fundraising event grossed right at $14,000 – an amazing $4,000 over the goal of $10,000.

Warming my heart (and body!) even more than the funds raised for the Humane Society shelter, which will allow us to save more animals when it is built, was the community support behind the event and the stellar list of participants.

We had doctors – Clark Hill, also the mayor of Commerce, and Dr. Gary Kinsey, Maysville Family Practice.

In addition to Dr. Hill, we had other city staff: John Ward, Jefferson city manager; Theresa Kenerly, mayor of Hoschton; Jeff Killip, public works director for the City

SCHOOLS

Continued from 1A Stewart served as the athletic director for a high school in Madison, Ala. That’s where he first worked with Superintendent Dr. John Green to help start the school.

“That was a great experience because you start from ground zero so you really have to reflection everything that you’ve done or every place that you’ve been to pull that off to get that going.”

Knowing Dr. Green was part of what drove Stewart to apply for the JCSS position. “Working with Dr. Green, I know what he stands for as far as making young men and women successful, and I share those same philosophies,” Stewart said.

Stewart was familiar to Jackson County, and was willing to relocate if he got the job.

“We picked up and [moved]. I don’t mess around when it comes to that,” he said. “We came into it fully loaded as far as making the change to come to this county.”

Rumors of the JCSS footing the bill for Stewart’s housing have been debunked. In fact, Stewart, his wife, and his three kids are temporarily living in Hartwell until they close on a home in West Jackson.

“I’m driving an hour. The reality of it is I’ve a got a hefty gas bill that I’m paying

of Jefferson; and Pete Pyrzenski, Commerce city manager. We had law enforcement – the awesome Arcade Police Chief Randy Williams and Jackson County’s first female sheriff, Janis Mangum. (Go Janis!) We also had Colton Green, the muchloved director of Jefferson Parks & Recreation, and even a judge – the Jackson County State Court Judge Rob Alexander. Joe Godfrey of Market Ready Solutions was the “token plunger” representing the Leadership class, who did a great emcee job.

Individually, the highest earners in the fundraising effort were John Ward, Jefferson city manager, in the top spot with $2,910 raised from people wanting to see him “go jump in the lake”; followed by Jeff Killip, City of Jefferson public works director, at $1,655; and Theresa Kenerly, mayor of Ho-

right now,” said Stewart of his current living situation. “We feel blessed that we’ve found a temporary place to stay,” he said admitting finding temporary housing for a family with “three kids, three dogs, parakeets and hamsters” isn’t exactly easy, so they’re grateful for what they have.

Controversy regarding Stewart’s hire wasn’t limited to living expenses; at Feb. 11 community meeting the lack of law enforcement work in Stewart’s background was called into question. However, he maintained Dr. Green’s position that his role exceeds that of a school resource officer (SRO), and his diverse background is what most qualifies him for the position.

Stewart holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s of Education from the University of Alabama. He has served as a coach at both the high school and collegiate level, worked as a teacher, worked within schools patrolling for security and is highly involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

“I have a track record of performance, a 20 year track record-- more than 20 years,” he said. “And it’s a track record of working with students and teaching students how to be successful. And I know what that blueprint looks like for working with a safe environment in a school.”

JCCO offering $14,500 in student scholarships The Jackson County Community Outreach (JCCO) will award 14 scholarships to seniors of the county’s four high schools and the Jackson County Adult Learning Center in 2013.

Applications were distributed to each school the week of Feb. 14, with the required criteria to qualify. Interested applicants can obtain applications from their respective school counselor. In order to increase participation and expedite the process, the JCCO has permitted schools to place applications on line, but must be completed, downloaded and given to the counselor to be forwarded to the JCCO. The deadline is March 1 and must be postmarked by that date.

Thirteen winners will receive $1,000 each and one will be selected for the prestigious Rev Dr. Tom Lewis Leadership Scholarship Award, given for demonstrated leadership, outstanding leadership qualities in school and community. The cost of higher education continues to present a tremendous burden on our families and JCCO scholarships help to ease this load.

Both President Obama and Gov. Nathan Deal have been placing greater em-

phasis on the value of pursuing a quality job-focused vocational education to improve our economic base.

All higher education is important, but The JCCO also supports this emphasis and we challenge parents, grandparents and churches to join this effort. This is important, in view of the increased local and regional need for a skilled educated workforce.

The JCCO annual awards banquets are the primary fundraising vehicle to support our JCCO Scholarship Fund. Each banquet funds the next year of scholarship awards. To enhance nonprofit work, JCCO welcomes financial contributions to the scholarship fund prior to the annual banquet. Contributions can be sent to The JCCO

, P.O.Box 746, Commerce, GA. 30529.

“The 2012 banquet was an overwhelming success and we are very appreciative,” said president Jim Scott.

The scholarship interviews will be scheduled starting the week of March 1, and after selection by the interview team and the scholarship committee, awards will be given at school honors day events. JCCO has awarded $107,500 in scholarships between 1998 and 2012.

The JCCO Scholarship Committee members are chairwoman Mary Dixon, co-chairwoman Betty J. Scott and member/interviewer Patrick Lee of Hoschton.

Jim Scott is JCCO President and Anita Brown-Jackson is JCCO Secretary.

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schton, who followed a close third at $1,542.

The best surprise of the day came in the package of 15-year-old Billy Anthony, who learned about the Plunge through Facebook.

He went around collecting pledges for him to make the jump, almost $150, and showed up the day of ready to join other community leaders. I say it that way because, Billy, where ever you are out there – you are a future community leader!

What wonderful initiative on behalf of the animals. I hope to meet you sometime.

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The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

CHURCH NEWS The monthly southern gospel singing at New Beginning Baptist Church will be at 6 p.m. on March 3 with Marcus Sentelle, formerly of Chozen.

The church is located at 4403 Winder Hwy, Flowery Branch, Ga 30542. Call 770-597-7742 sss Scout Sunday will be observed starting at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 3, at Westbrook Church, located at 401 Lewis Braselton Boulevard.

A potluck lunch will be enjoyed following the service. Everyone is invited to attend. Pack 146 Boy Scouts and Cub Scout meets every Monday evening in the gym. sss On Sunday, March 3, White Plains Baptist Church will be honoring Pastor Cary Pittman and his family for their service and dedication to White Plains, the members, their family and friends, but most important their service and love of Jesus. Please join us for Pastor Appreciation Day. Sunday School begins at 10 a.m. with the worship service at 11.

A covered dish lunch will be enjoyed after service.

White Plains Baptist Church is located at 3650 Highway 124 West in Jefferson, between Hoschton and Jefferson.

Contact Pastor Pittman at 706367-5650. sss Center United Methodist Church is discussing the possibility of having a Good Friday service. The time will be determined.

The church’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will be at 11:30 a.m. on March 30 with lunch to be provided.

The Easter sunrise service will be on Easter morning March 31.

The time will be determined.

Other ongoing activities

OBITUARIES Jennifer Galloway Averick

Died Feb. 22, 2013 Jennifer Galloway Averick, 49, of Hoschton, died Friday, Feb. 22, 2013.

Jennifer loved to cook and read.

Survivors include her son, John Wesley Averick of Hoschton; daughter, Abigail Averick of Hoschton; parents, Jim and Jane Galloway of Hoschton; brother, Winston Russell Galloway and Kim of Snellville; and sister, Melanie Jane Doolittle and Jim of Meridian, Miss.

A memorial service was held Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013, in the chapel of Lawson Funeral Home with Rusty Galloway officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to her daughter, Abigail Averick.

Lawson Funeral Home, Hoschton The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Rena Powers Crow Funeral services for Mrs. Rena Powers Crow, 101, of Jefferson, were held Monday, Feb. 25, 2013, at First Baptist Church of Jefferson with Dr. Michael Helms and Kenny Rosser Crow officiating.

Interment was in Woodbine Cemetery.

Born in Franklin County, Mrs. Crow along with her late husband, Tom Crow, established Crow’s Lake in Jefferson for fishing and recreation. She remained active in the family business until reaching age 95. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Jefferson and was a homemaker. Her husband preceded her in death some years ago.

Survivors include a daughter, Hilda Corbett of Jefferson; sons and daughters-inlaw, William Howard and Rose Marie Crow of Nokesville, Va, Thomas J. and Nadine Crow and Charles M. and Pam Crow of Jefferson; sister, Reba Johnson of Royston; 13 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Jefferson Building Fund, P.O. Box 395, Jefferson, GA 30549 or Jackson County Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1107, Jefferson GA 30549.

Evans Funeral Home, Jef-

at Center United Methodist Church include: ■■ Cub Scouts meet the 1st , 3rd & 4th Mondays of each month at 6:30 p.m.

■■ Boy Scouts meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m.

■■ AA Meetings in the Fellowship Hall on Tuesdays at 8 p.m.

■■ Children & Youth classesWednesdays from 6:30-8 p.m.

■■ Bible Study on Last Days prophecy - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

■■ The Cub Scout Pinewood Derby will be at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 9. The Cub Scout Cubmobile Race will be held in March.

Center United Methodist Church is located at 7641 Jackson Trail Road in Hoschton.

Contact Pastor Blane Spence at 706-654-4862. sss A singing will be held at New Beginning Baptist Church on March 17 in the 11 a.m. service with Brian Burchfield. The preaching hour will follow.

The church is located at 4403 Winder Highway in Flowery Branch. Call 770-597-7742. sss Calvary Baptist Church will have its First Friday Singing at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 1. In concert will be Threads of Hope, the Matt Dibbler Family and the Calvary Baptist Church Choir.

We invite everyone to join us for a delightful evening of song.

A love offering will be taken with all proceeds going to Hope Christian Academy in Winder.

Calvary Baptist is at 1975 Highway 82 in Statham. Contact Dr. Ronnie Healan at 770725- 5164. Visit www.calvary baptiststatham.org. sss See CHURCH NEWS, page 4B

ferson The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Jeffrey Todd Forbes Sr.

Died Feb. 18, 2013 Jeffrey Todd Forbes Sr., of Nicholson, died Monday, Feb. 18, 2013.

A private family service was held Feb. 23, 2013.

Born in Baton Rouge, La., he was a son of Jessie Walter Forbes of Zachary, La., and Lenora Hubbs Humphrey of Jefferson. He was employed with Lund International at Hamilton Mill for more than 12 years.

Survivors, in addition to his parents, include his wife, Lisa Forbes of Elberton; daughters, Savannah Forbes of Commerce and Misty Forbes; sons, Jeffrey Todd “J.T.” Forbes Jr., of Gainesville and William Robert Forbes of Flowery Branch; stepchildren, Derek Smith of Hartwell and Brian Dennis and Lisa Thomas, both of Elberton; sisters, Karen Smith of Bluffton, S.C., Sharon Chitwood of Pendergrass, Darlene Crane of Clinton, La., Charlene Posey of Ethel, La., and Laura Wilson of Jefferson; and a grandchild, Skylar Wayne Forbes.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

James E. Langston

Died Feb. 23, 2013 James E. Langston, 86, died Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013.

A son of the late Clyde and Coralene Combs Langston of Silver Creek, Miss., he was also preceded in death by his sister, Mary Agnes Ray. He proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II, where he was a mechanic on fighter planes, specifically as crew captain for the F6F Hellcats. He was so proud to be a member of the “Greatest Generation.”

He enjoyed gardening, telling stories and listening to music. He was an avid Old Miss Rebel and considered himself to be a “Ford Man.” He was faithful in attending his family’s sports activities but will be nest remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, provider and protector.

Survivors include his wife of more than 60 years, Betty J. Langston; son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and Brenda Langston of Suwanee; daughters and sonsin-law, Sandy and Robert Bethune of Lawrenceville and Lynda and Rodney Hall of Winder; grandchildren, Jennifer Goff and husband

‘Church is full of hypocrites’

“The church is full of hypocrites,” Fortunately, I don’t know any Chrissays the title that resounds what you tian that claims to be perfect. Most may have heard and even said. would say that they are forgiven and I hate that line. I hate it because working on being perfected (and that I hear it too often. I hate it because the process is painfully slow). it sometimes is an easy cop-out for Jesus knew his church would have people to check out of church and the this problem. He told a story to his folfaith. I hate it most because there is lowers of how God’s church was like a an element of truth to it. field planted with wheat (representing Rod Zwenke But before we get too far into this, people of genuine faith) and then the The Pastor’s Pen what does it mean to be a hypocrite? enemy sowed weeds (representing The Oxford English Dictionary people looked the part, but were hypodefines Hypocrisy as, “the practice of claiming to crites) in with the wheat. While the workers in the have higher standards or more laudable beliefs story (representing all of us) called for the master than is the case.” Amazingly enough, when Jesus (representing God) to take away the weeds, he told was condemning the religious leaders of the day them, “Let both of them grow together until the harfor their hypocrisy, that’s how he defined it, too. He vest...” - Matthew 13:30 told his followers, “… but do not do as they do, for So where does that leave us? Unfortunately, it they do not practice what they teach.” means that this hypocrite thing isn’t going away.

OK, that’s fair. If someone claims to be someWe’ll always have them, until Jesus comes back. thing that they are really not, that is a hypocrite.

I have met my share of hypocrites at church. I Some use the word hypocrite to describe any folalso have been called one -- just this past week, in lower of Christ every time they fact. But of all the amazing, mess up. When that moment of selfless and loving people I failure comes, they come back have ever met, they have all with, “I thought you were a been people of great faith, Christian.” According to the dicworshiping and serving in a tionary and, more importantly, church, and demonstrating to Jesus, that is not exactly what the rest of us what real faith being a hypocrite means. looks like.

If a hypocrite is someone who The question is: what are we claims to be something that they going to do about it? are not, then I’ve got news for If you are someone who has you – I am one, and you are, too. been hurt, really hurt by someNow, before you write me one’s hypocrisy, I am truly off or push back, be honest with sorry. Finding out the hard yourself. Have you ever not way that someone is a phony lived up to your own standards and expectations is tough. It is tough not to let that jade you. Let me you had for yourself? We are being honest, right? challenge you to push through the hurt and try Then, the answer is yes, right? Most of us would say again. Get reconnected to the faith and the people that we are morally opposed to lying. We don’t like of faith. Could you get hurt again? Yes. You could liars. Yet, we’ve all lied. Oh, but you justify it as a also end up finding the real deal and experiencing white lie or that you did it because you didn’t want life like you never dreamed possible. to hurt someone, but you did in fact lie. Most of us If this argument is something that you have been lie to cover our own tails. Regardless of why, we all hiding behind as an excuse, flush it. Decide now to have lied. If we say lying is wrong and yet we do it, not use it. If you are waiting to find perfect people that makes us hypocrites. in a perfect church, you will wait your whole lifeBeing a hypocrite is more than messing up. Jesus time. In doing so, you will miss out on the greatest was surrounded by people screwing up, morally thing since Jesus defeated death – the people of flawed and broken. His nickname was “friend of God unified in worshiping God and serving people sinners” after all. It is not the sinners that Jesus – the church. couldn’t stand, but the people who sinned and If you have been living like a hypocrite, repent. wouldn’t own up to it. That is what Jesus was so That means to admit you messed up and you need opposed to in the lives of the religious leaders of God’s help to fix it. Have a heart to heart with God his day. Not only were they screwing up, not living about it. Go to those you have hurt and confess your what they said they believed, but they denied that sin and try to make amends. That would make one there was any difference between their beliefs and less hypocrite in the world, something I think we all their lives. They were in denial about their own sin can agree is needed. and flaws.

Rod Zwemke is pastor of Crossroads Church of Jesus couldn’t tolerate that then, and that is what Jackson County. You can contact him at 706-658is so hard to swallow for us today. Any self-righteous religious person who either acts or boasts that 0243 or by e-mail at rod@check-out-church.com.

Visit www.crossroadsjacksoncounty.com. they have everything together is a turn off.

Jim of Williamsburg, Ohio, Jay Langston of Chicago, Ill., J.R. Barden and wife Marcy of Dacula, Brandi Wilson and husband Josh of Braselton, Lisa Williams and husband Jeff of Atlanta, Tyler Bethune of Lawrenceville, Glen and Nikki Perkins of Winder and Katie and Macayla Hall of Loganville; great-grandchildren, Meredith, Samuel, Wyatt, Grant, Cuorra, Austin, Autumn, Ella and Jonathon; sister, Carolyn Williams of Baker, La.; cousins, Gerald Langston and Margie Langston; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, at Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church with Dr. Dave Davis and Pastor Jason Mincey officiating. Memorials may be made to Odyssey Hospice of the American Cancer Society.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Mary Helen Ledford

Died Feb. 22, 2013 Mary Helen Ledford, 84, of Homer, died Friday, Feb. 22, 2013.

Born in Jackson County, she was a daughter tof the late Alvin and Gaynelle Shelton Cruce. A homemaker and an avid gardener. she was also preceded in death by her husband, Newt David “Shorty” Ledford.

Survivors include her children, Mary Ann Hogan, Thelma Pierce and Marvin Ledford, all of Homer, and Newt Ledford of Jackson County; sisters, Lonnie Presley of Dry Pond and Dora Griffin of Jefferson; brother, Jesse Cruce of Jackson County; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-greatgrandchildren.

The graveside service was held Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013, in the Walnut Fork Baptist Church Cemetery.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

If someone claims to be something that they are really not, that is a hypocrite. It’s someone who claims to be something they are not.

Robbie Elaine Maddox

Died Feb. 25, 2013 Ms. Robbie Elaine Maddox, 56, of Loganville, formerly of Winder, died Monday, Feb. 25, 2013 at her residence.

She was preceded by her father, Charlie Hayes, and was employed by Durden Enterprises.

Survivors include her sons, Joe King and Ricky King, both of Loganville; and mother, Grace Hayes of Winder.

No services are scheduled at this time.

Carter Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Charity Clark Miller

Died Feb. 21, 2013 Charity Clark Miller, 38, of Braselton, died Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013.

Arrangements will be announced by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA 30548, www.lawsonfuneralhome.org.

The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Carolyn Bagwell Mitton

Died Feb. 21, 2013 Mrs. Carolyn Bagwell Mitton, 83, of Jefferson, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013.

Born in Downsville, La., she was a daughter of the late Vollie Jack Bagwell and the late Eunice Rush Bagwell.

Along with her husband, Mrs. Mitton began ministering at Faith Baptist Church in Jefferson in 1961 where she taught Sunday school for 40plus years, served as a Missionary for the Virgin Islands and was Dean of Women at Tennessee Temple University. She obtained her Masters in Science and Divinity, and was a lifelong educator having taught school in the Jefferson City Schools, Athens Christian School and retiring with the Jackson County School System. She loved her family and loved her Church. “Your walk talks, and your talk talks, but let your walk talk louder than your talk talks.”

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Mitton is preceded in death by her grandchildren, Alex Mitton, Holly Fouche and Tiffany Pullman; and a sister, Gloria Jane Bagwell.

Survivors include husband, Dr. Gerald Mitton; daughters and sons-in-law, Miriam and Roger Taylor of Morgantown, Ky., and Susan and David Fouche of Jefferson; son and daughter-in- law, Mark and Amy Mitton of Jasper; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013, at the Faith Baptist Church in Jefferson with the Rev. Terry Wofford and the Rev. Bill Carpenter officiating.

The burial was in the Woodbine Cemetery in Jefferson.

Memorials made to the Jefferson City School System Foundation, 575 Washington Street, Jefferson, GA 30549 or a charity of your choice.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Vera Dean Pethel Patton

Died Feb. 24, 2013 Mrs. Vera Dean Pethel Patton, 93, of Talmo, died Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013.

A lifelong resident of Jackson County, she was a daughter of the late Emanuel and Alma Beatty Pethel. Mrs. Patton retired from Gold Kist Hatchery in Gainesville and in Commerce with many years of service. She was a member of Talmo Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dewitt Patton; a son, Danny Patton; three brothers; and two sisters.

Survivors include her sons, Mel (Debra) Patton and Neil (Dawn) Patton, all of Talmo; 10 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and other relatives.

Funeral services were

held Wednesday, Feb. 27, 201, in the chapel of Evans Funeral Home with the Rev. Mark Spence officiating. Interment followed at Talmo Baptist Church Cemetery.

Honored as pallbearers were grandsons and great grandson, Caine Tate, Josh Patton, Shay Patton, Lee Patton, Jermey Patton and Cody Harris.

Donations may be made to Talmo Baptist Church, P.O. Box 96, Talmo, GA 30575.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

Julian Ernest Perry

Died Feb. 26, 2013 Julian Ernest Perry, 92, of Winder, died Tuesday, Feb.26, 2013.

He was a graduate of Monroe High School and retired from the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier.

He was a member of Carter Hill Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Willie Mae Morris Perry; and his parents, Arthur and Ruth Harris Perry.

Survivors include his daughter, Julianna (Mike) Carnathan of Winder; sistersin-law, Frances Hardie of Decatur and Virginia Perry of Canton; grandchildren, Ben (Cortney) Carnathan of Winder and Kelly Carnathan of Chicago, Ill.; and greatgrandchildren, Lillian, Xaris and Rowan Carnathan.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013, in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with Revs. Tom Plank and Nick Vipperman officiating. The interment will follow in Barrow Memorial Gardens, Winder. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Galilee Church building fund.

Smith Funeral Home, Winder The Paper, Feb. 28, 2013

CMYK business

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

5A

Jackson EMC Foundation awards nearly $83,000 to agencies For The Paper

During its January meeting, the Jackson EMC Foundation Board of Directors awarded a total of $84,196 in grants, including $82,960 to organizations that provide programs or services to area residents: ■■ $15,000 to Challenged Child & Friends, a Gainesville non-profit organization providing educational, therapeutic, nursing and family support services to children with disabilities, to support the Early Intervention Program that provides special needs children with classroom instruction, individualized therapy and nursing services.

■■ $10,000 to the American Red Cross – East Georgia Chapter to train disaster response volunteers, purchase disaster education materials, and provide disaster relief, including food, shelter and clothing, to families in Jackson, Banks and Barrow counties who have lost their home to a fire or natural disaster.

■■ $10,000 to the Ark of Jackson County, a community outreach effort by area churches that assists individuals who have experienced a loss of income due to circumstances beyond their control, to help fund emergency housing assistance for rent or mortgage, and prescription medicine assistance.

■■ $7,500 to Good Samaritan Ministries in Buford to help fund the residential inmate recovery program, which provides inmates three months of self-study, classes and work therapy, followed by nine months of employment either inside or outside the ministry, to help them become productive members of society by working on drug and alcohol issues.

■■ $3,000 to the American Red Cross – Northeast Georgia Chapter to recruit and train disaster response volunteers in Hall and Lumpkin counties, and to provide Family Emergency Disaster Relief to families in those counties who lose their homes in a fire The Jackson EMC Foundation has put more than $7.3 million back into local communities since it was founded in 2005, funding 712 grants to organizations and 253 grants to individuals. Cooperative members participating in Operation Round Up have their monthly electric bills rounded up to the next dollar amount, with the “spare change” going to the Foundation.

Any individual or charitable organization in the 10 counties served by Jackson EMC may apply for a Foundation grant by completing an application, available online at http://www.jacksonemc.com/foundationguidelines or at local Jackson EMC offices.

Tanger raises $13,622 to help fight breast cancer

For The Paper

The Tanger Outlet Center in Commerce raised and is donating $13,622 for the battle against breast cancer.

Tanger made its local donation to the Northeast Georgia Chapter of the American Cancer Society during a special ceremony at their annual Merchant Luncheon and Awards program held Feb. 7.

“Tanger is committed to supporting Breast Cancer research” said Steven B. Tanger, President and Chief Executive Officer for Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. “I am proud of our Tanger Team members in Commerce for their continued hard work in fighting breast cancer and I thank our shoppers for supporting Tanger’s mission to find a cure for this terrible disease.”

Tanger’s 2012 PinkSTYLE Campaign ran Sept. 12 through Oct. 25 with funds

Twyla Davis and Mark Valentine of Tanger Outlet Center presented the check for $13,622 to Kellie Scott of the American Cancer Society. being raised through the sale of the popular TangerSTYLE Pink Card. For a $1 donation to local breast cancer beneficiaries, Tanger customers received a special pink card that provided 25-percent bonus savings at participating Tanger Outlet stores.

In addition to the sale of Pink Cards, Tanger raised money to fight breast cancer through its fourth annual Fit For Families 5K Run/Walk which had more than 400

registered participants.

With its primary mission to help save lives, Tanger’s annual Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign creates awareness for the importance of early detection and helps raise the money necessary to support ongoing research. Tanger’s campaign also helps fund many important programs and facilities designed to improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients.

Jackson EMC Foundation board member Christy Moore (right) presents a $15,000 Foundation grant check to Challenged Child & Friends Director of Development Cindy Wilson and Executive Director David Earnest to provide special needs children with classroom instruction, individualized therapy and nursing services.

Thursday, February 28, 2013

forum

6A

There’s a story in the stuff we leave behind On a recent weekend, my wife and I visited an estate sale. If you’ve never been to one, an estate sale is a garage sale of dead people’s stuff.

Unlike a garage or yard sale, generally everything that isn’t nailed down and a few things that are nailed down are sold.

If I lived in a perfect world, I think I would start giving stuff away one day, and when I got down to the last thing, I would just keel over.

However, I am a person with a lot of stuff and I married into a family of stuff collectors. This is not the best combination, but I am very happy.

You can tell a lot about somebody by his or her stuff. On this weekend, the people whose stuff was being sold appeared to be Republicans. I made this determination based on the books that were being sold. There was one book by Jimmy Carter, the rest were written by or about Republicans.

They liked good music.

They had a couple of albums by Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians. For those of you who don’t remember, Guy was the king of New Year’s Eve before Dick Clark claimed that title. His rendition of “Auld Lang Syne” was probably the most famous for many years.

I noticed at the most recent New Year’s celebration that they played “New York, New York.” That’s a nice song and I guess it works if you’re in New York.

It doesn’t work if you’re in Topeka. I don’t know if anyone has ever written a song about Topeka.

They also had a collection of albums of Hawaiian music, as well as an album by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass. The album contained the songs “Whipped Cream” and “Spanish Flea, “ which were used for years on “The Dating Game.”

They also had some TimeLife records of great songs.

Across the room was a

Harris Blackwood hi-fi with an asking price of $125. For those of you too young to remember, a hi-fi was a record player that would play half-dozen records on a spindle. Based on the number of records, the hi-fi had been put to good use.

I think they like a little libation from time to time.

They had a wet bar in the basement, along with a builtin icemaker. They had a lot of glasses that were of the highball variety.

Now, that is a supposition on my part. My Daddy bought my Mama a set of crystal champagne glasses, which we referred to as sherbet glasses, because my folks never drank champagne. We also had also had some tall crystal highball glasses that were never filled with anything stronger than sweet tea.

By the way, these folks had three glasses that matched Mama’s set and I bought all three.

When I walked through the bathroom, there were little bottles of shampoo for a quarter and a can of hair spray for a dollar. I didn’t need any, but I guess somebody eventually did.

There were all sorts of coffee table books about China and other world destinations. I don’t know if they visited or just bought the book. They did attend a World’s Fair, based on the souvenir cup that was for sale.

It’s a heck of a way to get rid of your stuff.

I hope when I go, there is no stuff left and nobody comments about how natural I look in a casket.

Harris Blackwood is a Gainesville resident whose columns appears weekly.

government contacts President Barack Obama, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20500, 202-456-1111, www. whitehouse.gov Sen. Saxby Chambliss, 416 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-3521; chambliss.senate.gov Sen. Johnny Isakson, 131 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-3643; isakson.senate.gov U.S. Rep. Doug Collins, 513 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515, 202-225-9893; 111 Green St. SE, Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-297-3388; dougcollins.house.gov Sen. Butch Miller, District 49, 109 State Capitol, Atlanta

30334, 404-651-7738; butch.miller@senate. ga.gov Sen. Renee Unterman, District 45, 121-H State Capitol, Atlanta 30334, 404-4631368; renee.unterman@ senate.ga.gov Sen. Frank Ginn, District 47, P.O. Box 1136, Danielsville 30633, 706-680-4466; frank.ginn@senate.ga.gov Rep. Emory Dunahoo, District 30, 401-D Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Atlanta 30334, 404-6560152; emory.dunahoo@ house.ga.gov Rep. Tommy Benton, District 31, 508-A Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Atlanta 30334, 404-6560213; tommy.benton@ house.ga.gov

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.

Steve Kelley Creators Syndicate

Rusty truck tells tale of hard work Back in the summer, unwillingly, I would rise early and take a run to beat some of the oppressive heat and humidity that smothers the South when the sun inches higher in the sky. Many mornings, I encountered something that would stick with me for the rest of the run.

Few cars were out so early on non-school mornings, but I often saw a rusty pickup, perhaps 25 years old, ancient according to today’s need for new vehicles. A man whose face was covered in gray whiskers hunched over the steering wheel while a lanky, teenage boy slumped in the passenger seat. The bed of the truck had cattle railings around it and tied to the boards were rusty rakes, shovels and hoes.

There was a push mower in the back and it, too, had seen better days and many yards.

The first time I saw it, I smiled. This is the South I love. The South that is unencumbered with keeping up with the moneyed class.

As is the tradition of Southerners, we always

Ronda Rich wave. Whether we know you or not. It’s the neighborly thing to do. So, I would toss up a hand and the man responded by flinging up a couple of fingers that were resting on the steering wheel. After a few mornings of meeting the rusty truck and its passengers, I began to gain admiration. They were going to work. They didn’t have much of the best things to work with — not even a shiny shovel — but what they had, pretty though it wasn’t, worked. And so would they.

I stopped waving when I saw them. Instead, I took two fingers, touched my brow and saluted. For this is the America I love, the one I grew up believing in, the one where a man with a strong back and a willing spirit can feed and

shelter his family. I know not this whiskered man or this young boy and chances are that never shall I know them, but I know all that is important: They are hardworking, ingenious, resourceful and prideful in a good way. They will rise with the sun, toil in its relentless heat and be proud of the crumbled dollars stuck in their pockets at the end of the day.

Where, I wonder, are these kinds of people when we need something done around the house? Whenever a repair arises, my heart sinks. I think of all the calls I’ll make before someone returns one, of the days I’ll wait until that someone shows up and the out-ofmarket kind of prices that will be demanded. Stubborn and frugal as I am, I will refuse to pay for such robbery and then set back through the trail of finding someone who will show up and do the work at a reasonable price. If it is a major repair, I will be in need of nerve medicine before it is finished.

Sure, we have a few folks to be counted on for

Ronda Rich is the bestselling author of several books, including “There’s A Better Day A-Comin’.” Sign up for her newsletter at www.rondarich.com. Her column appears weekly.

Remedy for the road trip blues: Slug Bug The topics of the day had been discussed. The DVDs had been watched one too many times. Naps had been taken. Road weariness began to set in.

You know the scene.

In the car too long. Tired.

Grumpy. Cross words are exchanged. Brows are furrowed. Infantile insults are hurled back-and-forth.

Finally, it was enough.

“Will you two stop? Don’t make me have to come up there,” my 14-year-old daughter told my wife and I from the back of the van.

Long trips in the family truckster can produce spells of bickering, delirium and, worst of all, bladder pain. But a couple of years ago, I came up with a surefire elixir for such treacherous treks.

We called it Slug Bug. When I was a kid, at some point, we were introduced to a traveling game where you recognize Volkswagen Beetles. When you saw one, you screamed out “Slug Bug!” Volkswagen Rabbits didn’t count. In fact, if you bellowed “Slug

Len Robbins Bug,” and there wasn’t a verifiable Beetle in the vicinity, you lost a point. The person who had called out the most Slug Bugs at the end of the trip won.

When I was 9, and there was no such thing as a DVD, and certainly no entertainment in the car other than AM radio, we couldn’t wait to get in the car to play Slug Bug. I explained the game to my wife and children during a junket a number of years ago.

It wasn’t unique, I quickly found out.

“That’s not called Slug Bug,” my wife retorted.

“It’s called Punch Buggy.”

She explained that her family played the same road game, but instead of “Slug Bug,” they yelled out

“Punch Buggy.” If you successfully called out “Punch Buggy” before anyone else in the car, she explained, you were allowed to punch the person next to you without fear of retaliation.

“Let’s leave that punching part out,” I offered, still smarting from my introduction to another of my wife’s childhood games, “Toss the Cactus.”

Of course, this led to a lengthy debate about what we should call our family road game. I fancied the nostalgic Slug Bug, my wife preferred the painful Punch Buggy, and our daughter, then not a teenager, decided she would just yell out “Beetle” and the color of the car. So, heads hardened, we decided each of us would respect each other’s favored handle and go from there.

We soon found out that our daughter had an acute eye for spotting Beetles. On her fourth sighting in about 10 minutes on the highway, she blurted out “Beetle, blue,” when our youngest son decided to join the

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.

dependability and fair pricing: Ronnie, our plumber; Doug, our septic tank guy; Allen, our cabinet maker.

But they are the exception not the rule.

A few years ago, I needed a real estate attorney for a relatively simple matter.

Three did not return my messages so I called the assistant to the lawyer who handles contracts and such for me. “Please ask him to recommend a real estate attorney who will call me back,” I instructed.

Two or three days later she called to say, “I asked him and he said that if you want one who will call you back, it’s going to be very expensive.”

I was speechless. Still am. But now I understand all the other folks who have quoted such high prices: returning calls and showing up makes a person valuable so they can charge more.

Publisher Dennis L. Stockton General Manager Norman Baggs P.O. Box 430 Hoschton, GA 30548 www.clickthepaper.com

Editor LeAnne Akin

game. He instantly countered with “cat, yellow.”

So for the next two hours, we would hear her “Beetle, red,” followed by his “cow, brown;” her “Beetle, green,” by his “car-house, white;” her “Beetle, black,” by his “big sign, words.”

For the record, a “carhouse” was an RV in my son’s lexicon.

We attempted to explain to our son that his sister was playing a game where she spots a certain type of automobile called a Beetle, but he failed to grasp the concept. He thought the game was: See something and yell out its color.

I thought about explaining to him that “words” wasn’t a color, but he was having too good a time with it, as were all of us.

Who needs a DVD player when you have Slug Bug? Well, actually, I do. In fact, I need both.

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

CMYK HEALTH

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

High-rated healing hands

BY SAVANNAH KING Regional staff

Patients in Gainesville are in good hands — some of the very best hands in the country.

For the last several years, Northeast Georgia Medical Center has been making a name for itself as the top cardiac care hospital in Georgia.

But now, the hospital has reached a new level of distinction.

The hospital was recently named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2013 by Healthgrades, the leading online resource for comprehensive information about physicians and hospitals.

This distinction ranks the hospital among the top 1 percent of hospitals in the country. NGMC is the only hospital in Georgia to be recognized on the list.

“Our organization has received an increasing number of awards for the care we provide our patients,” Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health Systems, said. “But this is no doubt the most rewarding recognition we’ve received thus far.”

Hospitals are recognized as being among the 50 best in the country based on risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates that were among the lowest 5 percent in the nation for at least seven years.

Healthgrades evaluated nearly 5,000 hospitals across the nation, reviewing and analyzing clinical performances across 27 common procedures and diagnoses to determine the nation’s best performing hospitals based on objective measures of clinical quality.

In addition to being named one of the best hospitals in the country, NGMC was also recognized as being No. 1 in the state for cardiology, general surgery and gastrointestinal services.

Other services, including women’s health, pulmonary services, critical care, and coronary interventional procedures ranked the hospital among the top five percent in

the nation.

Dr. Mark Leimbach, chief of cardiology at NGMC and a cardiologist at Northeast Georgia Heart Center, said caring for patients is just in the nature of health care providers. It’s their shared passion.

“I think a recognition like this, though not the reason we do it, is good to let people know about the high-quality care that they have here locally and the services that are available,” Leimbach said.

While the hospital has strived to create a reputation of excellence in the region, it’s all in a days work for the physicians, nurses and staff who care for the health of the community.

“There is no greater achievement for our medical staff and caregivers than to save patients’ lives and protect their health while they’re in our care,” said Dr. Ron Lewis, general surgeon with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Surgical Associates and chief of NGMC’s medical staff.

“To be recognized not only for achieving a level of care among the best hospitals in the nation, but also for providing that level of care consistently for seven years perfectly demonstrates our unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Burrell praised the hospital’s employees and volunteers for their tireless work in providing patients with elite-level care. She said the award proves that NGMC is making Gainesville a national destination for health care.

“We have established a cultural expectation known as ‘Quest for Excellence’ which is based on empowering employees across the organization,” Burrell said.

She said that everyone within the organization, from administrators to the front line staff, work to identify and implement ways to improve the care of patients.

She said the quest ensures the hospital never loses sight of adding value to the

7A

North Georgia Medical Center among nation’s top 50 hospitals

Scott Rogers Regional staff

Christopher Leach, a cardiologist with Northeast Georgia Heart Center, performs a heart catheterization procedure Friday at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. The hospital was named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades. Hospitals can get the award only after at least seven years of consistently high quality care. patients’ experiences as the hospital continues to grow.

“If you’re not continuously improving then you’re starting to decline,” Leimbach said. “It’s a continuous process; there isn’t a way to stay still.”

Dr. Stephen Moore, a gastroenterologist with Gastroenterology Associates of Gainesville who works on staff at NGMC, said the hospital has been committed to providing exceptional care to the community for many years.

Moore said the hospitals reputation for quality care seems to have grown tremendously over the years and encourages all the physicians in the area to improve their level of quality as well.

“I think people are already quite aware that the hospital has a reputation for excellence in.. all areas really,” Moore said. “And this just reaffirms the hospital’s commitment to that.”

Top 100 recognition Northeast Georgia Medi-

cal Center is also one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® according to a study by Truven Health Analytics, formerly the healthcare business of Thomson Reuters.

The study names top hospitals in five different categories – from Major Teaching Hospitals to Small Community Hospitals – and NGMC is one of only 20 “Large Community Hospitals” selected.

NGMC is also the only hospital in Georgia to make the list in any category.

This is the second time NGMC has made the 100 Top Hospitals list and comes on the heels of the hospital being named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2013 by Healthgrades®.

“Being named to this elite list just one week after we were named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals

by Healthgrades is further proof that our organization is making Gainesville, Georgia, a national destination for health care,” says Carol Burrell, President and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System.

CMYK 8A

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

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CMYK Thursday, February 28, 2013

Sports

B

Panthers look ahead to season; fall to Stephens Co. BY charles phelps

Regional staff

Prior to the start of the season, the Panthers’ tennis coaches knew the competition was going to be stiff so they stressed one word to their respective teams: competitiveness.

“It’s not always about a win or a loss; it’s about developing the players and becoming competitive,” said Natalie Peterson, head coach of the boys’ team. “We stress that [the game] is inside [the player’s] own head. It’s more psychological than anything. Some [players] have the mentality to pick up and go [after losing a point].”

Peterson also said some players

are picking up a racquet for the first time in their life.

Andy Gentry, who is at the helm of the girls’ tennis team, has 45 years of coaching experience and wants the team to stay in a point and not allow the opposition to get a free-and-easy point by just handing it to them.

“We want to make the opponent earn their victory,” he said.

Gentry also echoed Peterson’s message to his team, saying he wants to make the girls competitive as well. When it comes to actually competing in a match, Nate Konarski of the boys’ team summed it up in just word: survive.

“It’s not always about a win or a loss; it’s about developing the players and becoming competitive.”

Natalie Peterson Jefferson High School boys’ head tennis coach

“You just try and survive. The biggest stress [during a match] is getting the winning point,” he said.

Both coaches said the teams were hard at work and focusing on the backhand and the serve because those are the areas where players have the biggest learning curve.

Some of the players have even utilized “how to” sessions on Youtube. com to better their game.

The toughest competition facing both teams will be Morgan County High School, which is looking to repeat last year’s performance. The boys’ team made an appearance in the Elite 8 last season. North

See TENNIS, 2B

HIGH SCHOOL lacrosse

HIGH SCHOOL TRACK & FIELD

Mill Creek tames Sprayberry 15-6

Dragons aim for 10th state championship

BY BRANDON RICHARDON

For the Paper

The Lady Hawks lacrosse team began their season on the right foot on Feb. 20 by defeating the Sprayberry High School Lady Jackets 15-6.

“We played very well tonight and everyone had an opportunity to contribute. We used a lot of girls in the game so our legs were really fresh at the end of the game. It was a great win start to the season,” said head coach Brian Williamson.

Mill Creek High School won the opening faceoff and immediately went on the attack. Tori Windom notched the team’s first score just 30 seconds into the action and Emily Hallberg scored two straight goals on assists from Rachel Gann and Maddie Beck at the 23:37 and 23:15 mark. Less than a minute later, Beck continued the scoring run, increasing the lead to four.

Sprayberry was able to finally get on the board but a goal

by Beck returned the lead to four.

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

The Jefferson High School track and field team will open its season March 2 and the Dragons have nine state championships although JHS is nearly three years removed from its last track title.

The Dragons are focusing on competing at a high level and making the most of every meet before they fast-forward to May. “As far as our track program goes right now, we are sitting pretty well,” said Tim Corbett, head coach of the boys’ team. “We have about 35 boys and 35 girls on the high school level so our numbers are pretty good.”

While they may not have the same group from 2010, Corbett says he takes delight in how much willpower his team has shown so far.

“I can certainly enjoy it when the kids show up and work hard. We are going to have to work hard at the coachable events,” Corbett said.

“This year I have been pleasantly surprised because they have been working just as hard as any team I’ve ever had.”

The forecast is a little foggy right now in determining who will be some of the toughest challengers, however Corbett notes that Greene County and Washington-Wilkes High School have strong programs.

The Dragons have two athletes with very strong numbers and could cause some trouble for any team.

“Mason Hamrick and Jason Howard are coming back and are pretty solid in the pole vault. They both are sitting 13-foot-6 and 14-foot6. Those heights put them up there in the state from what we know right now,” Corbett said.

Three members of the football team will be anchoring the throws and could be one of the more solid groups in that department.

“Ethan Hix is one of our throwers along with Conner Nations. Ethan’s height and weight give

See DRAGONS, 2B

See LACROSSE, 2B

HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER

Lady Panthers off to a strong start

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

Latrice Williams The Paper

Connor Nations is a member of the state championship football team and will look to carry on that winning momentum to track season.

BY Brandon richardson

The Mill Creek High School track and field team went on the road to Brookwood High School for its first road meet of the season.

With the crowd still filing into the stadium, Mill Creek began its meet just like their previous one by winning the first race of the day. The girls’ 4 x 800m relay A team won by more than a minute with a time of 11:06.22. The girls’ B team came in third place, less than one second behind the Broncos. The boys’ A team won easily with a time of 9:45.02.

“Our girls really ran hard today. It’s normal that you’re supposed to [have improvement] from meet one to meet two, but I think our girls are really biting into the competition factor,” said Jed Hodges, head coach of the girls’ team.

The girls’ 4 x 100m relay proved to be a very exciting event. The Hawks jumped out to a nice lead by the first exchange but the Broncos made up ground on the second leg. A slow exchange by the Hawks on the second exchange cost the girls a firstplace finish as they ran a 51.55 to their opponent’s time of 50.92. The boys’ 4 x 100m relay wasn’t as close as the Hawks blew away their competition running a time of 43.03.

Star runner Malayshia George made her first appearance on the track and didn’t disappoint. It seemed as if George was running alone as she won the 400 meter dash with a time of 57.88. “[George] looks good – not sharp yet but she looks good doing what she does,” said Hodges.

See HAWKS, 2B

local SPORTS Jefferson to host March 22 fundraiser Fans of the Dragons, get ready for Lucky Night out. The March 22 event is scheduled for supporters of Jefferson athletics to have the chance to redeem their raffle tickets and win a variety of prizes. Those wishing to support a particular sport can purchase a raffle ticket designated toward that sport. Those wishing to support the softball team in particular can contact Terri Parker at 770-714-5977 for more information including the deadline to purchase tickets and the time of the event. Contact Teresa Phillips at 678-227-2971 to purchase a raffle ticket.

Soccer season is under way and, while many teams are fighting to stay above .500, the Panthers have opened the season by going 2-0.

But these aren’t just any ordinary wins as JCCHS forced two huge shutouts. The Panthers are feeling pretty good about where they stand.

“Getting two solid early wins versus Banks County and Cedar Shoals High School was just what the team needed,” said head coach Joseph Ridgway. “We graduated two of our starting back line and have put up two shutouts with our new look defense lead by Kourtney Axelberg, SJ Fla-

See PANTHERS, 2B

Spry sees Jackson County flying high

Mill Creek Hawks soar in meet against Brookwood For The Paper

TENNIS

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

Mariah Spry clocked in a time of 12.8 in the 100 meter and 27.6 in the 200; those times helped Spry become the county champion last year.

Softball and wrestling may be two of the more recognizable programs at Jackson County Comprehensive High School but the track and field team is on the verge of being just as notable. Senior Mariah Spry will anchor the girls’ team and is on her way to becoming a three-time county champion. “[Making it to] the state meet is my goal this year. Our head coach, Dave Darling, is doing a great job as far as pushing me and helping get there,” said Spry.

Spry is committed to Marion University, a Division III

school located in Indiana. It may be a long way from home but it will be well worth the trip as she earned a full scholarship as a member of the track and field team.

“It’s very exciting to know I will be going to the next level with track. I have a great opportunity to accomplish a lot of things,” Spry said.

When asked which squad will give her the toughest challenge this season, Spry said, “I would say my biggest competition is Hart County High School.”

The Panthers girls’ has standouts seeking to make a

See SPRY, 2B

LOCAL BASEBALL

local racing

Let’s play ball! On March 7, the Gwinnett Braves will host Fan Fest from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Those who purchased a ticket for the 2013 season can participate in a batting practice from 5-8 p.m. Fans can watch the Braves take on the Detroit Tigers on the big screen from 6-8 p.m. For a complete list of the day’s festivities, send an email to gwinnettinfo@braves.com or call 678-2770340.

If the Sebring International Raceway wasn’t recognizable before, it certainly is now. Sebring is introducing the Rolex watch as its official timepiece. “Sebring International Raceway is honored to be affiliated with the prestigious Rolex brand,” said Sebring President and General Manager Tres Stephenson. “We look forward to what promises to be a truly special year at Sebring, and we look ahead to 2014 and the beginning of an exciting new era.” The Rolex watch is one of the most well-known watches manufactured in Geneva, Switzerland.

Coolray Field to host Fan Fest

Rolex becomes Sebring’s official timepiece

CMYK 2B

sports

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

Pugh headed to Samford; seeks Final Four repeat with Hawks

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

After a Final Four finish last year, the sweetest outcome would be a repeat with a different result.

Cody Pugh of the Mill Creek High School baseball team is taking an optimistic outlook and is hungry to be a state title contender.

“We’re really just trying to know and play our role and perform like everyone expects us to. We want to minimize mistakes and really work hard as a team so we can get back to where we were last year,” said Pugh. “I think we can definitely get back to Final Four and farther. We are just as talented, if not more talented, than [others].”

Pugh is committed to play collegiate ball at Samford University, and the Bulldogs are the defending division champions of the Southern Conference.

“I was introduced to them by my brother-in-law who is a coach at Milton [High School]. He got me in the door,” said Pugh. “They came out and watch me a few times. We kept in touch through email and phone conversations. Then I went for a visit one day and my parents I really liked it. There were a few other

Latrice Williams The Paper

Cody Pugh had 84 strikeouts in last year as a junior for the Hawks. things that set it over the top.”

Does Pugh expect to take on the leadership role this season? “We don’t have any standouts,” he said. “We all get onto

each other when we need to and we help each other when we need to.”

The Hawks’ first several games of the year are with non-conference opponents. The difficulty of the schedule will allow them to expose their weaknesses early and possibly grab some big wins before they move into region play. Pugh noted a difference between playing unfamiliar teams versus the squads they see every year.

“Coach [Doug] Jones put us in a bunch of non-region games to get us prepared for our region games. The first half of the season will be a test for us,” said Pugh. “Other teams in the region scout more and do more to focus on that particular team and get prepared so you are pretty much facing the best. When you play someone out of the region, the only thing you can do is give your best effort.”

Pugh has a remedy prepared to help him endure for a season that can be long both physically and mentally.

“I take each game one game at a time,” said Pugh. “This team has to depend on each other whether we are struggling or doing well.

“I just want to do the best I can do,” Pugh said.

DRAGONS

Continued from 1B him a lot of leverage. Conner had a little bit of success last year. It was his first time he ever picked up a shot or a discus so this year we are looking to improve his technique,” Corbett said. Another good thrower is Tyler Bowen and he has a lot of potential. Tyler is one that is showing leadership through his actions. His has a good work ethic and is coachable.”

There is still a little bit of uncertainty lingering in the speed events and much of that is due to Corbett wanting to slowly break his team into the sport to prevent preseason injuries. There are some youngsters that could contribute early but that will more than likely depend on how well they adjust to the challenge of competing at a higher level.

“We have not done timing for those events yet because it’s a little cool, they are not in shape and the last thing I want to do is have someone pull a hamstring. We have some kids from middle school that [look promising] but that’s a big jump [in terms of competition] when you go from middle school to high school,” said Corbett.

Latrice Williams The Paper

Tyler Bowen is a member of the state championship football team and will look to carry on that winning momentum to track season.

PANTHERS

Continued from 1B herty, Gabby Kastner and Allison Reilly.

Both keepers (Victoria Fontana and Kianna Ledford) shared time [at the goalie position] for the shutouts.

“We are pleased with our team as a whole and look to get better as the season moves forward,” said Ridgway.

Both wins showed a plethora of Panthers players can score. The team is loaded offensively meaning opponents can’t pinpoint just one offensive weapon.

“We have a very dangerous group of girls offensively this season. Katie Phillips and Sydney Baird are strong [scorers] as well as a new addition to the team, Jessica Wells,” said Ridgway. “The three of them should help us put pressure on the opposition, along with many other strong attackers such as Bri Manculich, Maddie Newton and Kaitlyn Parker.

We are deep with offensive-minded players this season.”

Every squad is searching for a state title and, while the Panthers were an Elite 8 team a year ago, they are placing their attention on the things they need to do to better as a team.

“We are focused on trying to take [it] one game at a time,” said Ridgway. “That is our goal. Looking too far ahead is not something we want to do. If we focus on eliminating our mistakes and improving each game, both as a team and as individuals, we will have a successful year.”

The Panthers have a core of veterans returning and Ridgway says he is pleased with the way his leaders have stepped up to the challenges so far.

“This year we are loaded with strong seniors, juniors and sophomores. We should have much more wisdom and experience as a team this season and I hope that translates well on the field,” Ridgway said.

The youngsters on the team are adapting well to the strength of the region.

“We have a great group of young players coming up as well and we want to keep getting better as a program in order to take JCCHS soccer to the top of in the future,” said Ridgway.

“We have a very tough region but with hard work, focus and mental and physical discipline, I know our girls can be a strong force in region 8AAA this season,” he said.

TENNIS

Continued from 1B Oconee High School will also be a challenge, according to Coach Peterson.

While each team is looking to improve, both teams suffered a tough home loss to Stephens County High School.

The boys’ team lost 4-1, with their only win coming from the doubles team of Blake Bingham and Dylan McDonald. They were able to put out the three-set victory (5-7, 6-0, 7-5) over Mitch Franklin and Paite Chatham.

Bingham and McDonald were down facing matchpoint in the third set. However, they were able to tie the match at 5-5. Then, they won the next two games to close out the match.

The girls’ team didn’t have much luck, losing 4-0 against the Stephens County.

Casey Ellis, Hannah Rodriguez and Savannah Jones suffered straight-set losses. Rodriguez took her opponent to a first-set tie-breaker but lost 7-6. Then, she dropped the second set 6-1. Ellis and Jones won a combined four games in their losses.

The doubles team of Hannah Langston and Kasey Strong lost in straight sets (6-2, 6-1).

The Panthers will return to the court March 5 at home against Hart County High School. Times have not yet been announced.

LACROSSE

Continued from 1B MCHS controlled the time of possession in the half and throughout the game. They were able to win almost every faceoff and took quick shots on goal. After another Sprayberry score, the Hawks were held scoreless for nearly 12 minutes. Following a SHS turnover, Maddie Peek started with the ball from behind the midfield line before taking it all the way down for a score.

Abigail Fitler expanded the MCHS lead to five with eight minutes to go. The team continued to dominate offensively extending their lead to seven on a goal by Windom 10 seconds before halftime. The 10-3 lead was achieved not only through the Hawks’

HAWKS

Continued from 1B While the Brookwood girls took first in the 100m dash, Devozea Felton was able to edge out Brookwood’s Daquan Joy by five-tenths of a second to take first in the event. Fellow 4 x 100 boys’ A team member Michael Leonard took third in the event.

In the field events, George also took first place in the girls’ high jump with a jump of 5 feet 3 inches. Argy Kosmakos placed second in the event with a jump of 5 feet and 1 inch. Larsen Moore took first place in girls’ pole vault clearing 8 feet and 6 inches.

Kosmakos improved on her second-place finish in the long jump by breaking the MCHS school record and placing first in girls’ triple jump with a jump of 35 feet and 5-1/2 inches. Kelsey Gray took first in girls’ discus with a throw of 112 feet and 4-1/2 inches. Dami Agboola took first in the girls’ shot put for the Hawks, just edging her teammate Gray.

The Hawks will return to action on March 2 at 9 a.m. at Collins Hill High School. Complete results for this meet can be found at ga.milesplit.com.

Victoria Fontana is added to Brenau University’s 2013 class

BY LATRICE WILLIAMS

ing staff is awesome. They are easy to get along with and I can talk to them whenever I need to.

The team is very welcoming.”

Fontana is without a doubt one of the most recognizable faces among Jackson County athletics and the three-sport athlete had her options as she being recruited for more than one sport.

However, Fontana chose to stick with the one that has been in her blood the longest.

“Oglethorpe University was looking at me for basketball but because they are a Division III school, they can’t offer athletic scholarships; they can only offer me an academic grant. I also

looked at North Georgia [College] but once I contacted Brenau that was where I wanted to Jackson County Comprego,” said Fontana. hensive High School is having a “I was on the fence about a lot breakout year in athletics and of things because I play softball, can add another college signee basketball and soccer. [I had to to its list of accomplishments. ask myself], ‘Which sport am I Victoria Fontana, who helped going to stick with for the next lead the Panthers’ softball team four years?’ I’ve played softball to an appearance in the Final since I was little so that is where Four, will take her talents to BreI am most comfortable at. That is nau University. my No. 1 choice,” Fontana said.

When asked why she booked Fontana did her research on her ticket to Gainesville, Fontana her new squad and also sought said, “I [felt like I] was at home. It advice from her head coach, felt right as soon as I stepped on Chessie Laird, who has a bit of the campus. I’m a homebody and history with Brenau as well.

I’m family oriented. The coach“I looked at their records, who they play and what tournaments they played in. My head coach played there so I did a lot of talking with her. I also looked at the basketball program but softball caught my attention right away,” stated Fontana.

Fontana noted her recruiting trail not only extended after nearly capturing a state title but it also opened the door for other athletes to garner the attention they deserved.

“I think it was awesome to have coaches come and watch because it gave opportunities for other players to be seen. It’s not just an opportunity for me; it’s an opportunity for everyone else to be seen, too,” said Fontana.

When asked what excites her most about playing collegiate softball, Fontana said, “I just enjoy sports. I don’t know how I would cope without it. I look forward to Latrice Williams The Paper growing with the players and hopefully becoming a better Victoria Fontana had many Panther fans join her signing day ceremony softball team.” lwilliams@clickthepaper.com

and said, “Support is everything. It’s almost like having a second family.”

unstoppable offense, but also with a very strong defensive effort.

While scoring slowed down for MCHS in the second half, the rout was already on. Hallberg scored her third point of the night and then 3 minutes later, she scored her fourth. Hallberg followed her two goals with another assist on the night to Tyler Rediger.

The 13-3 lead forced a running clock with 15 minutes to play in the game.

The Hawks had more than enough points to pull out the victory in this one.

Mill Creek will head to Alabama March 1 for an out-of-state contest against Spain Park High School.

The game is scheduled for 4:30 p.m.

HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD BASEBALL Jackson County 4, Lumpkin County 11 LACROSSE Girls MCHS 15, Sprayberry 6 Boys Mill Creek 12, North Gwinnett 6 SOCCER Girls Jackson County 7, Cedar Shoals 0 Boys Mill Creek 5, Hebron 0 TENNIS Girls Jackson County 0, Stephens County 4 MCHS 4, Wesleyan 1 Boys Jackson County 1, Stephens County 4 MCHS 5, Wesleyan 0

SPRY

Continued from 1B name for themselves as well this season and there are those who will work to standout on the boys’ team.

“We have a lot of good athletes this season; some members of the team that stand out would be Daphne Melton who throws the shot put, Layson Giles, who competes in the high jump, and Kayle Tanner who runs hurdles,” said Spry.

“We [also] have a lot of outstanding freshmen this year.”

Jackson County opens the season today against Dawson County High School at DCHS. The events are scheduled to start at 4 p.m.

CMYK Thursday, February 28, 2013

features

3B

Friends of the Library help communities, new volunteers being sought

BREAKING GROUND

Farah Bohannon Columnist One of Jefferson’s most anticipated events — the Friends of the Library book sale — was held this past weekend, Feb. 22 and 23, at the Jefferson Civic Center.

There was also a preview night for the Friends of the Library members on Feb. 21.

Several hundred books were for sale with affordable price tags — children’s paperback and hardback books were 50 cents and a dollar while adult paperback and hardback books were $1 and $2. Book categories included, but were not limited, to children, romance, health, cooking, gardening, biography, fiction, VHS/audio, finance, business and more. There was a wide variety for everyone and the books were in excellent condition — even the ones that were dated before the 1950’s.

There were old and new books which offered something for everyone.

Beth Cathy, a member of the Jefferson Woman’s Club, volunteered as a worker at the book sale on Saturday. She said the attendance was great.

“People trickled in and out throughout the day, but I am pleasantly surprised with the large amount of customers who came on this gloomy Saturday,” she said.

“I especially love seeing the children bursting at the seams with excitement when their parents tell them to pick out whichever books they want.”

The tables full of children’s books were in piles instead of organized rows like the adult books — this observation truly shows how excited the children were to shop for new books. Beth also mentioned that several home-schooling parents came to purchase books for their home libraries, and there was even a gentleman who bought a stack of books to re-sell.

The Friends of the Library group is exactly what they say they are — a friend.

They help support and promote the value of the library and fully believe that the library offers positive benefits to the community. The Friends of the Library’s mission is to “focus public attention on the library services and activities, strengthen and expand library services, sponsor summer reading programs for kids and supplement county funding, allowing for special services and materials that might not otherwise be possible.”

Amy Carlan, head librarian at the Jefferson Public Library, says she is ecstatic to have such a wonderful and supportive organization by her side.

The Friends of the Library is always accepting volunteers. There are also opportunities at the Braselton-West Jackson Library. As a part of expanded opportunities for Friends of be involved, this group is currently seeking a semi-annual book sale manager who would be responsible for setup and breakdown of the tables and books. This volunteer manager would schedule cashiers and volunteers as well.

Additional responsibilities include marketing efforts for the sale.

The Friends of the Braselton-West Jackson Library is also seeking a volunteer book sale logistics manager as well.

The logistics manager would sort through donated books and transport them to a storage unit and help the other manager coordinate the book sale.

For more information about these Friends of the Library, visit www.jeffersonfriends.prlib.org and www.braseltonfriends.prlib.org

Tables of books filled a room at the Jefferson Civic Center last weekend.

“I especially love seeing the children bursting at the seams with excitement when their parents tell them to pick out whichever books they want.”

Habitat for Humanity set for its 10th build in Jackson County

By Roxane Rose

Regional staff

The Jackson County Habitat for Humanity held a groundbreaking celebration on Sunday, Feb. 24, for its 10th build. The house is being built for Desmond Sturdivant and his children Shikeem, Shiquita, Shicuira and Shivade.

The property, located on Lavender Road in Arcade, will be used for two families and two Habitat homes. A 12-week build plan is in place for the Sturdivant house. When it is complete, a groundbreaking will be held for the next house, which will be built in partnership with Ginger Phillips, who also attended Sunday’s ceremony along with members of her family.

Jackson County Habitat for Humanity works to eliminate poverty in Jackson County by joining hands with those in need. Through volunteer labor and tax-deductible donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses.

Habitat homes are sold to partner families at no profit, financed with affordable, no-interest loans. While the loan is interest free, it must be paid by the homeowner and 300 hours of “sweat equity” is required of the homeowner.

“It is a hand up, not a hand out,” noted Mark Bradley, president of the board.

The mortgage payments are recycled into a

Roxane Rose Regional staff

While this is not the exact house plan, it is similar to what will be built on the site. Clockwise, from top: Shovels move dirt in the ceremony to celebrate the 10th Habitat house start in Jackson County; Habitat Executive Director Paul Brown greeted the crowd and gave the opening invocation; Fred Wilson, Habitat board member, gives a prayer; Fred Wilson, right, talks with Ginger Phillips, who will be the second homeowner on the property; Habitat ReStore Manager Vince Mercardante, left, and the Sturdivant family. fund that allows more houses to be built for more families.

For more information or to volunteer or donate, call 706-336-0061, e-mail getinvolved@ jacksoncountyhabitat.org or visit www.jacksoncountyhabitat.org.

BULLI spring classes are showcased

By DEBBIE PURVIS

dpurvis@clickthepaper.com

Brenau University Learning and Leisure Institute (BULLI) in Braselton provided a sneak peak at the spring offering of classes during a Tuesday informative meeting attended by two dozen from the community.

The atmosphere was great and everyone left knowing more than when they came,” said one who attended to learn that spring BULLI classes will be March 25 through May 3.

Braselton Assistant Police ChiefLou Solis spoke about the class he will instruct: PURSE – which has two different meanings – Proper Use of Reliable & Safe Equipment or Put Up Resistance, Safe Escape.

This course will teach you about personal protection and how to use your firearm safely: If the gun jams, how do I clear it. The hard part about using a gun is when you have to use it on somebody. Demonstrations of guns, knives and rifles will be included. Find out when you can use a gun in the house, and guns versus rifles – familiariz-

ing yourself with your weapon.

Solis will also focus on safety and maintenance of your equipment and how to maintain the skills you know. Trigger Time, located on Spout Springs Road, rents guns for target practice but, during the course, participants will go to a Braselton Police shooting range to practice using firearms. Classes are on Monday from 2:45-4:15 p.m.

Paul Jolie, a health and fitness instructor and owner of Vibrant Life Fitness, will be teaching the class of Take Charge of Your Health. Six years when he was 66, he woke up every morning with hip and neck pain. He weighed 225 pounds and figured that with age you start having pains. He decided to charge of his health and see what he could do to make life easier. When he started exercising and taking a notice about his health he dropped down to 185 pounds and feels great. “You do not have to live in pain, do something about it,” he said. Many people become motivated to do something positive about their health only in desperation (cancer, diabetes,

Debbie Purvis The Paper

Assistant Police Chief Lou Solis is teaching a safety course which will include practice time at the Braselton Police shooting range.

obesity) and he will teach you how to get motivated through inspiration. “God programmed us to be healthy, don’t interfere,” he said. Take charge of your health before it’s too late.

His class will be on Mondays from 6:30-8 p.m.

Using Multimedia to Express Your Creativity! is the class to be taught by Martha Moore. She said to bring paints, brushes, fabrics, buttons, paper, scissors, ribbons, beads, yarn and all other art paraphernalia that you might have around your house or in your drawers and she will teach how to make fantastic works of art. Use your imagination and add fun to the endeavor while sharing ideas with fellow students.

Her class is on Tuesday from 9-10:30 a.m.

Buck Barnes will be teachDebbie Purvis The Paper ing Tai Chi and, during the Buck Barnes will be teaching Tai Chi during the spring BULLI classes. meeting, the audience got

up and followed Buck through some exercises. He had total cooperation. A student (an older gentlemen) got up a told that he has thoroughly enjoyed this exercise and now it seems like second nature. This exercise helps improve your balance and flexibility, strengthens your immune system, reduces stress and arthritis pain while helping to increase your mobility so you can have fun. Buck will teach this class on Tuesday 6-7:30 p.m.

Sheri Reaves will be teaching – Your Best Life Regardless – covering topics such as deMYTH-ifying longevity, memory and brain health, mastering the art and science of great communication. The class will look at the season of your life, the associated challenges and will focus on life improvement regardless of your current circumstances and the effects on

See BULLI, page 4B

CMYK 4B

events

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS The Miss Jackson County Pageant will be held Saturday, March 2, at Jackson County Comprehensive High School.

The pageant, for ages 0-18, is sponsored by the JCCHS Cheerleaders.

Miss Jackson County will receive a $250 scholarship.

The $100 participation fee includes a T-shirt with the fee of $65 for second child entered.

For information and registration forms, go to jcpantherathletics.com or email JCCHSCheerleaders@gmail.com sss Breakfast for Braden will be held from 8-10 a.m. on Saturday, March 23, at Fatz, located at 442 Atlanta Highway NW in Winder.

The fundraising breakfast is beinh held in cooperation with the Children’s Organ Transplant Association or COTA, in honor of Braden Knebel, a 3-year-old toddler from the Jefferson area who is in need of a heart transplant. All profits will go toward transplant-related expenses.

The cost is $7 per person with $4 of each ticket sold going to COTA for Braden K. Children 4 and under eat free. Plates include three pancakes, sausage, a fruit cup and beverage. To order tickets, contact Michelle Knebel at 706410-8709.

Donations can also be sent by mail to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, 2501 West COTA Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403. Checks or money orders should be made payable to COTA with “In Honor of Braden K” in the memo line.

Credit Card donations are also accepted online at www.

COTAforBradenK.com. sss Leftover Pets offers low cost spay/neuter surgeries at the clinic located at 610 Barrow Park Drive in Winder in Winder. March clinic days are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Prices

CHURCH NEWS Continued from 4A

Arbor Pointe Church invites you to join them each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at West Jackson Middle School for an inviting, warm, and contemporary service of worship. From now through Easter, the focus is a series called “Going Up” that will look at times when Jesus “went up” and what happened when he did. For more information, visit www. arborpointe.org or contact Rev. Brad Greene at brad@arborpointe. org. Worship messages from Rev. Brad Greene are also available for download at iTunes and at arborpointechurch. blogspot.com. sss The people of Arbor Pointe Church invite the community to celebrate the Easter season by joining them for worship, brunch, and a children’s Easter egg hunt on Sunday, March 24. The brunch and egg hunt will take place immediately following worship on March 24, and both will take place at West Jackson Middle School. Worship begins at 10:30 a.m. in the school cafeteria. Nursery is provided, and classes are offered for pre-K through high school. sss Free beginning lessons on learning the Bible in Spanish, at Hoschton United Methodist Church, taught by Rev. Luis Ortiz, are being offered on Wednesday nights starting continuing until May. The community is welcome to join us for a free dinner at 6:30 p.m. and study from 7- 8 p.m. every Wednesday.

Along with learning a new language, the goal of the class will be to learn how to recite Bible scriptures in Spanish.

The church is located behind City square at 12 Mulberry St., at Bell

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. No extra fees are charged for in heat or pregnant animals. For more information on clinic services, visit http://www.leftoverpets. org. Appointments are required and must be made by calling 800-978-5226. sss The Hoschton Women’s Civic Club meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Hoschton Depot.

“All local women are encouraged and welcome to join us,” announces president Betsy Ryan. sss Folk-to-Fine Arts Festival & Expo, March 1-3 at the Commerce Civic Center. Festival hours are Friday, March 1, 5-10 p.m., admission $15 includes meet the artist reception, two drink tickets and weekend readmission. Saturday & Sunday, March 2 & 3, 10 a.m.

- 6 p.m., admission $7. Art classes offered throughout the weekend, visit www.folkfinearts.com sss The 12th annual live and silent auction dinner benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Jackson County will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 12, at the Commerce Civic Center. Individual tickets are $50; $500 for a table of eight; $250 for a half table. sss Wellspring Camp will host its fifth annual 5K trail run/ walk at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 9, at Wellspring Camp.

Entry is $25 including T-shirt.

Enjoy a beautiful run (or walk) around the camp property at this Run & See Georgia Race.

Registration available at www.

wellspringcamponline.com sss

Of note to gardeners

Come and fly with Fur Ball Airlines on March 22. The 2013 Fur Ball will have preboarding in advance of 7 p.m. flights at the Braselton-Stover House. The fundraiser will find all proceeds going to the new building for the Humane Society of Jackson County. Tickets are $100 per person or $150 per couple. sss

Class for adults A beginner’s gardening class for adults has been scheduled for Nannie’s Children’s Garden in downtown Braselton, beginning in March.

The class content will include topics such as soil preparation, seed germination and plant propagation, garden maintenance, container gardening, herb cultivation, and perennial and annual flower growing.

The classes will be a combination of classes and hands-on gardening.

Classes will be held at Nannie’s Children’s Garden on Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. until noon each week beginning March 7, and concluding April 25.

There is a $15 participant fee for the class, and registration can be completed at the Braselton Library or by e-mailing Dave Rusk at dhrusk@msn.com. Class size is limited to 10 students. A second class will also be offered during May and June.

Nannie’s Children’s Garden is a community demonstration garden adjacent to the Braselton Library on Brassie Lane. Programs offered at the garden are sponsored by the Hall County Master Gardeners with the support of the Braselton West Jackson Library and Keep Jackson County Beautiful, Inc. The garden is maintained by adult volunteers as well as the students of the Braselton Junior Master Gardener program, and funded by grants and donations.

Class for Junior Master Gardeners ages 8-13 Registration for the Braselton Junior Master Gardener class beginning this March is now available at the Braselton Library.

Students aged 8 through 13 are eligible to participate in this national program sponsored in Braselton by the Hall County Master Gardeners.

With the theme of “growing good kids,” the JMG program provides education through class activities and hands-on gardening, with the intent of providing basic gardening skills to the young children.

After successfully completing two courses, the students are certified as Junior Master Gardeners.

The fee for newly registered students is $15 to cover the cost of the JMG student handbook. Students previously registered do not have to pay a fee, but must complete a new registration form. Registrations are due by March . Class size is limited, so register early.

Classes will be on scheduled Saturday mornings at the Braselton Library and Nannie’s Children’s Garden in downtown Braselton, beginning on March 9, and run from 10 a.m. until noon two Saturdays a month. Once school is out for the summer, classes will be on every Friday from 9 a.m. until noon through the end of July.

For additional information, contact Dave Rusk at dhrusk@msn. com

BULLI

by you. During the course, you’ll look at larger problems and discuss personal solutions – from easy to more complex. Various topics will include water supply and conservation, energy creation and consumption, solid waste generation and strategies for reducing your contribution. Classes are Wednesdays 1-2:30 p.m.

You can register at the Braselton Town Hall, located at 4982 Highway 53, or contact Braselton Downtown Director Amy Pinnell at 706-6840369 or Jennifer Dees at 706-6545720. You can also register at the Gainesville BULLI office at 406 Academy St., or call 770-538-4705.

Official registration lasts through Tuesday, March 5. Online registration will also be open through that date.

HeART for Chocolate, Heart for Children, a gala showcasing chocolate and art, will be held March 23 at the Jefferson Civic Center. The event will benefit Piedmont Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

Art from local artists is still needed. For information and $35 tickets, visit www. piedmontcasa.org or call 706387-6375. sss The Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing for the second annual Jackson Derby, set for May 3 at Bouchard Farms. Wilbanks Law Firm is this year’s presenting sponsor.

This event is an extravagant, springtime party with all the excitement of derby day, complete with on-screen horse racing, big beautiful hats, summer jackets, mint juleps, live music and great food.

Sponsorships are now available and event tickets are $100. Contact the Chamber at 706-387-0300. sss The Georgia Piedmont Arts Center (GPAC), located in downtown Auburn, is seeking entries for their annual spring tent festival – Spring Phling – on April 13.

This festival features artisans and their hand-created wares.

Only original fine art and fine crafts will be offered.

Visit the web site – www.

GeorgiaPiedmontArtsCenter – or phone 404-202-3044 for more information.

Avenue. Call 706 654-1422 or email hoschtonumc@ windstream.net sss

org , call 770-9659506 or visit www. thespringschurch.org sss

Northeast Church announces a new ministry, The Caring Place, to provide assistance to those in need and meet physical and spiritual needs in the community.

This is the combined ministry of Hope for the Hungry and Duds and Spuds, and offers food, clothing and free haircuts monthly, thanks to a host of volunteers. It is held the first Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Northeast Church.

The entrance into The Caring Place is located on the Hwy. 124 side of the building, at 100 Broadway Street, Braselton.

Northeast Church is at 2001 Cherry Drive in Braselton. Contact the church at 706654-3205, admin@ mynortheastchurch. com, or www. mynortheastchurch.com. sss

Covenant Baptist Church is a group of called-out believers who are committed to following Jesus Christ as Lord. We do this by sharing the good news of the gospel to those who are separated from God; and by teaching Believers how to be fully devoted followers of Christ.

Please join us on Sunday mornings at 9:30 for Sunday school and 10:30 for morning worship at the Depot in downtown Hoschton. Nursery and children’s church is provided. Pastor Todd Coble can be reached at 678-316-0273. God bless you and “See you at the Depot!” sss

The Springs Church hosts Wednesday Night Downpour with a potluck dinner 6-6:30 p.m., followed by an adult church service focusing on prayer from 6:30-8 p.m., and Bible lessons and activities for youth and children, too. The Springs Church is located at 6553 Spout Springs Road, in front of Flowery Branch High School. Email office@thespringschurch.

AWANA is now under way at Bethabra Baptist Church from 5:30-7 p.m. each Sunday. New and exciting events are planned including music, scripture memorization, awards, games, snacks and much more for ages 2 years through 5th grade.

Visit the website at www. bethabra.org or call the church office at 770-8673755 Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The church is at 1054 Old Thompson Mill Road (Hwy 211). Contact Pastor Landon Frymire at 770867-3755. sss

Continued from 3B your life goals and everyday life.

Classes are Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. to noon. Sheri is a guidance and family counselor at NorthView Counseling in Buford and has also taught previously for BULLI. Tom Mills, owner of Greenshortz, a website that encourages environmental sustainability through short videos about specific topics, will be teaching “Strategies for Living More Sustainably.” He asks have you ever thought of being more green? Eighty-two percent of Americans want to live more sustainably, but only 16 percent take action. There are six strategies for sustainable action….implemented

Corner-Stone Church Preschool, located at 6933 Georgia Highway 11 in Jefferson, announces fall registration for church members from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday, March 4. For currently enrolled students, registration will be from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, March 5. Registration will be open to the community from 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday and Thursday, March 6 and 7. Contact director Kimberly Rewis at 678-524-6986 or visit www.corner-stone.org/ preschool sss Yoga is available at 7 p.m. on Mondays at Hoschton United Methodist Church. The class is free but please bring a food donation for “Back-pack” ministry.

Email jah1996@aol.com.

HUMC is located at 12 Mulberry St., in Hoschton. sss “Beans & Greens” fundraiser supper will be held at Clemons Chapel UMC on Highway 52 west of Lula from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, March 2. Eat in or carryout for $5 per plate. Call 770-983-3080 or 770-983-7384. sss Hope Resource Center in Jefferson is offering a confidential post-abortion Bible study, “Forgiven & Set-Free,” on Saturday mornings.

If you have been affected by an abortion and are struggling emotionally, call the Center today at 706-3675304. sss The Church of Hoschton has relocated to the former Hoschton First Baptist Church at 99 E. Jefferson St., in Hoschton, beside the Hoschton Post Office, and would like to invite the community to join them.

Sunday services begin with Bible study at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday night , the service begins at 6 p.m. with the study of Psalms under way. Wednesday night service begins with

prayer meeting at 7 and Bible study at 7:30. We are finishing the study of Daniel and soon will be starting to study Revelations. Contact the Rev. Cory Sexton at 678234-9408. sss Is your church planning an Easter egg hunt, a sunrise service or other event you would like to invite the community to participate in?

Submit your Church News or ot happenings to editor@clickthepaper. com or mail to P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548 or drop off at the office of The Paper at 169 Towne Center Parkway in Hoschton.

CMYK schools

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

5B

Area has AP Honor Schools

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Katie Justice The Paper

Above: JCCHS’ Jazz Band No. 1; below, left: Middle School’s Jazz Band; below, right: JCCHS’ Jazz Band No. 2 is the second jazz band for the school. All performed at the Feb. 5 concert.

Bands jazz it up at concert

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Jazz music was in the air on Feb. 5 inside the Jackson County Comprehensive High School’s (JCCHS) auditorium.

The West Jackson Middle School (WJMS) and JCCHS jazz bands performed for a full auditorium, with WJMS opening the show with “Sweet Georgia Brown,” a tune commonly recognized as the Harlem Globetrotters’ signature sound.

Next, the middle schoolers journeyed into swing with “Tuxedo Junction.”

“A lot of swing had to do with trains because that’s how a lot of people traveled in that time,” said WJMS band director William

Kilgore, as he introduced the piece.

The final piece for the WJMS jazz band was the “James Bond Theme.”

“They’ve been able to experience one of America’s true art forms,” said Kilgore of the genre created in the United States.

Following the middle school, JCCHS’ Jazz Band II, took the stage to perform “Saxes with Attitude,” a piece highlighting the band’s saxophone section, “Red Tape,” and a rock song entitled, “Dill Pickles.”

“I was very proud of the students for their performance,” said JCCHS band director Miles Adams. “Jazz Band II only rehearses one afternoon per week, so it’s always a challenge to learn

Dylan McCabe

Sterling Bain

Jessica Fisher

Lauren Wickenden

4 West Jackson Middle School band students are All-State Band bound

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Four West Jackson Middle School band students are headed to Savannah Feb. 28 through March 2 to perform with the Georgia Middle School All-State Band.

Sterling Bain, Jessica Fisher, Dylan McCabe, and Lauren Wickenden were chosen to represent Jackson County at the state level.

According to Band Director William Kilgore, Georgia is one of the strongest state in the United States for school bands, so WJMS being a part of the All-State Band is an honor.

“Most schools aren’t recognized,” said Kilgore. “To have one person make the All-State Band – that’s quite a feat, but this year, we have four.”

an entire concert program in that limited amount of time.”

Following Jazz Band II, was JCCHS’ Jazz Band I. “Those students are our best and brightest, so they’re also in various clubs, sports, church activities, and many hold after-school jobs,” Adams said. “They get to school one hour early just to play in jazz band, so I always appreciate their effort and dedication.”

According to Adams, these students rehearse three days a week in the mornings before school.

Jazz Band I opened with “The Opener,” a song that the band has been opening all its performances with for the last 20 years.

Next, they ventured into “Sonny’s Place,” which highlighted the saxophone section that Adams described as “not your typical saxophone section.”

The third selection performed was an unusual rendition of “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Adams described its as a “little bit church, a little bit Dixieland and a little bit jazz.” The final song of Jazz Band I was “Go Down Gamblin,” by Blood, Sweat, and Tears.

“I choose songs based on many factors: the quality of the composition, the balance of the parts-- saxes, trumpets, trombones, rhythm section-- and the style. We try to program songs of different styles so the students get to learn swing, rock, Latin, ballad, etc.”

Up next for the bands are a concert on Tuesday, April 16, and then the Georgia Music Educators Association District Jazz Performance Evaluation, which will last all day on Thursday, April 18.

“We usually have 20 to 25 middle school and high school jazz bands perform in that event. They will play for a panel of judges to receive comments and a performance rating.

That event is free and open to the public,” Adams said.

Georgia is making gains when it comes to Advanced Placement (AP) testing according to the recent AP Report to the Nation by The College Board.

Georgia is now ranked 12th in the nation for the percentage of seniors scoring a three, which is passing, or higher on AP exams. Almost 22 percent of students taking AP exams in the state score a three or higher. That’s about 2 percentage points higher than the national average of 19.5 percent.

“Georgia’s students continue to outperform most of their peers throughout the country on Advanced Placement exams,” said State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge. “These results show that Georgia’s students can compete against any students in the nation. Just as SAT results get everyone’s attention, I think the performance of our students on Advanced Placement exams deserves the same attention.”

Georgia is also at the top of the list when it comes to the percentage of public school students taking AP courses and exams. In Georgia, 41.1 percent of seniors took at least one AP exam, while the national average was 32.4 percent.

“The continued high scores of all Georgia students on AP exams are certainly cause for celebration,” said Governor Nathan Deal. “Advanced Placement courses help students develop college-level aca-

demic skills, and passing scores on those exams help students earn college credit for the knowledge they’ve gained. Georgia’s improvement on the percentage of seniors earning a three or better on AP exams represents a good deal – for our students and our state.”

Locally, five high schools received the title of AP Honor School.

East Jackson County High School (EJCHS), Jackson County Comprehensive High School (JCCHS), Jefferson High School (JHS), Mill Creek High School (MCHS) and Winder Barrow High School were all named AP STEM Schools. STEM refers to the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, and AP STEM Schools have students testing in at least two AP math course and two AP science courses.

Of the above listed schools, EJCHS, JCCHS, MCHS and WBHS additionally earned the title of AP STEM Achievement Schools, which means that at least 40 percent of students testing in the as least two science and math courses earned a three or higher.

JHS was named an AP Challenge School, which means it has fewer than 900 students and offers testing in four of the core areas.

MCHS was named an AP Merit School meaning at least 20 percent of the student population is taking AP exams, and at least 50 percent of all AP exams taken earned a score of three or higher.

Thanks!

WJMS 8th grade students thanked GSES Media Specialist Jennifer Saine for letting 8th grade students check out books from her library in order to read aloud to PreK through 2nd grade at Gum Springs Elementary during Read Across America Week Celebration Feb. 25- 28.

School lunch essay contest held

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Local students know what’s cooking.

Three students from each of the schools in the Jackson County School District placed in the School Lunch Week essay competition, sponsored by Jackson County School Nutrition Department and Tanger Outlet.

At West Jackson Primary School David Stanphill placed first, Jeremiah McKinzie placed second and Savana Flaherty placed third.

“What is cooking for school lunches?” wrote Flaherty in her essay. “Well, I can just go ahead and tell you it’s super healthy. They serve fruit and vegetables.

It’s so healthy that it makes the kids stronger each day.”

At West Jackson Intermediate, Zoie Armstead placed first, Katelyn Steinbauer

placed second and Kayla Steinbauer’s essay placed third.

At Gum Springs Elementary School, Savannah Van Buren placed first, Montgomery Garland placed second and Marfude Arshad placed third.

“You know something else?” said Van Buren in her essay. “I grow up healthy because the lunch-ladies give me the right size portions. If they gave me too much, that would be bad. If they gave me too little, that would be worse. The cafeteria helpers are a gigantic part of me growing up healthy and strong!”

At West Jackson Middle, Adria Phillips placed first, Ana Torres placed second and Ashley Riley placed third.

In her essay, Phillips wrote, “The ladies that prepare our lunches every day are getting us healthier options for lunch.

They want us to be a healthier generation.”

CMYK 6B

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

ENTERTAINMENT

Uncle’s inappropriate behavior to keep niece from funeral Dear Margo: When I was in my early 20s, my husband and I visited my aunt and uncle.

My uncle had been drinking and tried rubbing against me and copping a feel. I got away from him and never said anything about it to anyone, as he was married to my favorite aunt (my mom’s sister) and I didn’t want to start any trouble.

She was more like a sister to me than an aunt. They moved to another state when my uncle retired. My aunt always wanted me to visit, but I made excuses.

In 2003, she passed away, and my uncle moved back to my state.

He called wanting to take me out to dinner.

I told him fine and added that my daughter (25) and granddaughter would love to go, thinking I would be safe with all of us.

He said fine, but later called and said he didn’t want my daughter and granddaughter to come.

He started talking dirty to me and insinuated that I cheated on my husband. I

Dear Margo told him he had the wrong person and hung up.

His children are two cousins I love dearly. I’ve never told anyone any of this. I cannot stand this man.

My problem is this: He is way up in years now, maybe 90, and I’m sure he doesn’t have much longer to live.

I do not want to go to his funeral to show respect, as I have none. What would I say to my cousins if I didn’t attend? —Sickened Dear Sick: “I was feeling unwell.” —Margo, conveniently Dear Margo: Help! My co-worker is driving me crazy. When I was hired, she insisted on buying me lunch despite my protests. I would buy hers to keep it even.

It was expensive, and I

kept trying to stop it. She refused to listen. She kept calling me her friend. I did not want to be her friend.

She had a nasty reputation. I had been around her when I temped for the company, and when anyone disagreed with her, she said she had worked for a large company out east, as if that made her right.

She was divorced, and the reasons for her divorce would expand whenever she heard someone else’s problems.

Her life story keeps evolving, too.

She was molested by a teacher; she is on several medications; she was abused by her father.

She spends more than four hours a week talking to her mother at work, and the rest of her family calls her after the boss goes home.

She always has a special project that keeps her from doing her share of the work.

And that is the tip of the iceberg.

I am tired of the drama and of being called her friend. I treat her fairly, but

would not be sorry to see her leave.

We work the evening shift; the day shift does not want her, as she is too disruptive.

Management is blind, as she sucks up to them. I have put up with her for almost two years and am ready to go into therapy. I am a solitary person. I don’t need the stress that working with her brings. —Going Crazy Dear Go: Unless you are a two-person night shift, I would get a petition going with your other co-workers to present to whomever is in charge.

If that doesn’t work, I would meet with the boss and lay it on the line. She sounds nuts. One should not have to be in therapy just to go to work. If you can’t get her out of there, and if you can’t find a comparable job for yourself elsewhere, tell her flat-out that you wish to be left alone, and then only respond when it concerns your work. —Margo, straightforwardly Dear Margo: My husband is very reticent about emo-

tion other than affection.

He’s a very nice husband.

I’m concerned, however, that he may be depressed.

What’s immediately troubling is that when someone treats him badly, he swings around and tries to understand their point of view.

This has happened more than once, but the most recent example is that we were blindsided by the foreclosure on our apartment building.

We found out on the last day of the month — and by that time the landlord had left town with the next month’s rents and deposits.

It amounted to about $6,000 from us, and who knows how much from his other tenants?

We can’t recover our money — the guy is in bankruptcy. My husband keeps excusing the man.

I, too, can see how it probably happened. But I’m still very angry and feel violated.

(We were fairly friendly with him and his wife.)

My husband says we should be nice to the couple if they show up again.

I want nothing to do with them and wouldn’t let them in the door. I also doubt they would ever come back.

Is this a sign of depression? It doesn’t feel normal to me. —Don’t Know What To Think Dear Don’t: I suggest you go online and look up the symptoms of depression.

Forgiving being screwed by a friend is not one of them. At the very least, your husband is a good schnook.

I happen to agree with your anger about the situation, but your husband is clearly conflict averse.

It would be good if you two could discuss the differences. Do you find him a passive wimp in other areas? Does he feel you have a short fuse?

Both of you have a psychological source for your attitudes, and exploring them should give each of you a better understanding of the other. —Margo, attentively

Dear Margo is written by Margo Howard, Ann Landers’daughter. All letters must be sent via the online form at www.creators.com/dearmargo.

Tell us what you think

WORKING IT OUT

We want to know what you like about your paper.

Send an e-mail to editor@clickthepaper.com, call 7706-658-2683, or send a letter to The Paper at P.O. Box 430, Hoschton, GA 30548.

Submit your announcements and events Community happenings, church news, school news, engagements, weddings and births can be submitted to The Paper. Submit to editor@ clickthepaper.com or drop by the office at 169 Towne Center Parkway in Hoschton.

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

SOLUTION

CMYK schools

The Paper | Thursday, February 28, 2013

7B

At the hop at Braselton Christian Academy For The Paper

Katie Justice The Paper

Participants took part in Boosterthon, a fundraiser for West Jackson Primary School.

Boosting fitness, character while fundraising at WJPS

By KATIE JUSTICE

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Fitness, leadership, and character were the three lessons West Jackson Primary School (WJPS) students learned as they ran their way to earn $13,000 during their Boosterthon Fun Run. On Thursday, Feb. 14, each grade level of WJPS students made their way to the gym ready to run and raise some money.

Boosterthon is a fundraising program that focuses on fitness, leadership, and character.

Boosterthon team members incorporated his year’s theme, “Highway USA,” into daily character lessons and activities.

“It’s a really good character development,” said Physical Education teacher Tanya Butler. “It’s a good lesson for them.”

However, it’s not the lesson’s that raise the school thousands of dollars. Students collected donations and pledges for the actual fun run on Thursday.

“I’d rather give cash than buy something I don’t need,” said parent Heather Behles.

Then, every student participated in the nearly 30 minute run. Students ran around the 1/16 mile Boosterthon course, which included an inflatable tunnel, between 25 and 35 times.

“The kids are so hyped up. We don’t want it to be so much about funds, but more about fun. Every child participates,” said Principal Linda Bell.

Festivities for the fun run included Bell

ize and have a night of fun with no drama and no pressure.”

According to Smith, Braselton Christian Academy strives to incorporate social events in a world where it is hard sometimes to allow your children to go to private parties or events that are unsupervised.

“We welcome parents who want to come and stay,” said Smith. “It’s all about creating a family atmosphere. Come join us.”

Katie Justice The Paper

and assistant principal Michele Archibald donning inflated sumo-wrestling suits and dancing around the track – much to the students’ enjoyment.

“They did great – lots of enthusiasm,” said Bell. “We like the way the touch on fitness, leadership, and character for the kids.”

JHS gym: $13.7 million The plans for building Jefferson High School’s new gymnasium are taking shape, with the Jefferson City School System Board of Education receiving the guaranteed maximum price for the project last week.

The Jefferson Board of Education hosted a called meeting Feb. 19 in which Carroll Daniel Vice President and Project Executive Steve Hix told the board the total cost of the project will not exceed $13.7 million.

Carroll Daniel Construction, which is currently handling projects at JHS and elementary school, accepted bids from contractors

Debbie Purvis The Paper

John Reedy, Braselton Christian Academy student, credits Penney Smith for the education he is getting. Below, she joins in with the dancing at a recent sock hop.

Principal Linda Bell gave high-fives to students as they made their way around the Boosterthon course in the gym. See more scenes at ClickThePaper.com

Katie Justice The Paper

By KATIE JUSTICE

An old-fashioned sock hop is hosted from 6:30-9 p.m. on the last Friday of each month at Braselton Christian Academy with students, friends, siblings and the community coming together for a fund evening.

“In the spring of 2009, the vocabulary word of the week for the fourth grader was sock hop, and no one had even heard of it,” said Penney Smith, who announced that it would be better to show her students what a sock hop was by having one.

That was the beginning of a tradition that has grown increasingly popular.

Kiley Morrow, who is in her third year at Braselton Christian Academy, says she enjoys the sock hops since they are a great way to spend time with friends.

“I love it because we can be ourselves and enjoy the music, dance, songs and games,” said Elijah O’Neal. He says he enjoys having dinner with his friends without the pressure some kids feel at a private party or while meeting up at the mall.

“Moms like it because they know their children are safe and it gives them time to spend with their spouse,” said Smith.

The cost is $10 per person and the sock hop is the last Friday night of the month.

April will have a spring fling theme with October being a masquerade party.

“I love the interaction the sock hop atmosphere creates among the students,” said

Each lap of the Boosterthon run had a theme and participants enjoyed achieving the goal.

kjustice@clickthepaper.com

Smith. “It is amazing to see ages 5-16 social-

interested in the gymnasium project at the end of January.

According to Hix, the expected cost of the actual building will be about $11.9 million, with the entire project topping out at over $13 million. That amount includes all the sitework done, adding a new parking lot, and bringing in water.

The estimated time frame for the project was 24 months, but that has been decreased to 22 months.

“When we sit back and fine tune it hopefully, we can better that,” said Hix. With the gym being bid out, Jefferson City Schools should come out almost $3,800 under its budget of $25.5 million. Originally, the

gym was expected to cost $15.2 million but value engineering and cutting back on additions, such as an auxiliary gym, decreased the cost.

School Board Chairman Ronald Hopkins admits that while the $3,763 left over may not seem like much, it is an accomplishment, saying the system normally finds the cost of projects “being 30 percent more than what we’ve got.”

Conservation conversation at WJMS For The Paper

West Jackson Middle School Earth Science teachers Tracy Eye and Matthew Wood recently joined with Brian Wiley and Jennifer Flowers of Gainesville Public Utilities to create an exciting learning opportunity for their sixth graders.

Wiley is the environmental monitoring coordinator with City of Gainesville Public Utilities and Jennifer Flowers is a water conservation specialist.

“If you can do math and science, you can do anything in this world,” said Flowers, who surveyed the students to find out who lives in a watershed. She used the SmartBoard to demonstrate a watershed to the students.

“We are in Oconee Watershed so when it rains, the water ends up in the Oconee River and it will eventually end up in the Atlantic Ocean,” she said.

“The water we have today is the same water the dinosaurs drank,” explains Flowers, who shared a number of water-related facts.

Four million people get their water from Lake Lanier and the Chattahoochee River.

“It takes 1,800 gallons of water to get 1 pound of ground beef to your table. To make one pair

of jeans, it takes 1,800 gallons of water. It takes 1.85 gallons of water to produce one 16.9-ounce bottle of water…because it takes more water to produce the plastic bottle than is actually contained in the disposable water bottle,” she said. It actually takes less water and power to recycle plastic bottles than it does to produce it the first time.

“Three years ago, we were running out of water. All joking aside, it had gotten to the point where people in our area didn’t have enough water in the morning to take a shower because people watered their lawns and ignored the warnings. We were literally running out of water,” said Flowers.

The ideal amount of water usage is 65 gallons per person per day. But consider this: A five-minute shower equals 15 gallons of water…a 30-minute shower equals 90 gallons of water. An hour long

shower equals 180 gallons of water.

A normal showerhead uses 2.5 gallons per minute, the easiest way to save water is to reduce shower times to 5 minutes for men and 10 for women but sometimes this is hard to do. An easy way to reduce water use is to replace your showerhead with a 1.5 gallon per minute showerhead. It uses technology that allows for great pressure but uses less water. You can’t tell a difference.

Turning the water off while you brush your teeth will save 5 gallons every time.

Habits are hard to change but the easiest way to save water is to just turn it off when you are not using it.

Check your toilets for leaks. Put food coloring in the tank of the toilet, don’t flush, wait 30 minutes and if any of the color is in the bowl of the toilet, you know you have a leak.

cmyk The Paper

8B

Services 000 011-Adult Care NURSE w/over 30yrs exp. will care for your love ones at your home or mine.

678-630-4327

028-Child Care KID’S WORLD Christian Childcare Jesse Jewell/985 Now Enrolling 6wks & up. $100/wk.

770-297-1500 Oakwood Daycare McEver Rd. Now enrolling Babies120; One & Up - 110.

770-536-4671

031-Cleaning Lanier Home/ Office Cleaning, experienced and professional. Call Misti at 678-943-2395

043-Firewood FIREWOODSeasoned Oak. Cut & Split. Free Delivery.

678-630-2775 678-549-6901 leave message SEASONED HARDWOOD $75 Per Load; $45 Small Load.

Free Delivery!

706-693-0099

052-Home Improvements NEWMAN CONSTRUCTION Decks, docks, porches, inside projects. 770-560-4670 Est./Appts www.newmanconstruction.net

055-Landscaping ONE semi / 3 bales of pinestraw $10, 4th bale $.50, Mar. 4, 9 am. Pk lot J Ingram Sta. 1507 M L K Jr BLVD. Margie 678-677-6352

Announcements 100 160-Lost & Found $1200 Reward Lost- Brown Female Poodle (7lbs). Wearing pink shirt. Gwinnett/Hall on 11/19/12.

Please Help!

770-633-1994

170-Notices 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 200 230-General Sales Agents TV SALES POSITION WUGA-TV, Northeast Georgia’s public broadcasting station is seeking a Contract/Freelance Sales Person to secure underwriting funds on a commissioned basis.

Prior media sales, fundraising experience required.

Send resume and introductory letter to: JImmy Sanders, Director of TV & Radio WUGA-TV, University of Georgia 120 Hooper Street Athens, GA 30602 or e-mail: jsanders@wugatv.org

Bring the job market to you!

Start your job search here! new career opportunities are listed every day in the Classifieds!

To place an ad call

770-535-1199 or 1-800-395-5005

Thursday, February 28, 2013

240-Medical Full time phlebotomist, must have at least 5 years experience, strong computer/EMR skills and patient care experience. Bilingual a plus. FAX resume to 770.503.9818 or mail to PO Box 2683 Gainesville, GA 30503

PRN medical assistant. Must be bilingual. FAX resume to 770.503.9818 or mail to PO Box 2683 Gainesville, GA 30503

The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. is seeking qualified candidates for the following positions: Registrar (P/T, 2pm- 6pm plus one Sat. per month) Business Office Gainesville LPN or MA General Surgery Dahlonega Registered Dietitian (PRN) Obesity Solutions Payroll Clerk (Experience with ADP payroll products specifically ADP HR/Benefits Solution and Enterprise eTIME is required along with experience with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word) Business Office Gainesville Ultrasonographer (P/T; 2 days/per week. Obstetrics and/or perinatology exp req’d) Perinatology Gainesville MLT (8am-1pm; Mon-Fri; Rotating weekends.)

Family Medicine Oakwood Practice Management Systems Coordinator (M-F, IDX experience required. Coding and/or CPC certification preferred) Gainesville Cytotechnologist CT (ASCP) (Part-time; 24 hours per week) InterLab Gainesville LPN or RN (F/T. Tues-Fri; 8a-5p.

Will consider P/T candidates as well) Vascular Access Center Gainesville Clinical Coordinator (LPN preferred.

Leadership & supervisory skills) Family Medicine Oakwood Registered Mammographer (Position is PRN) Imaging Dept.

Gainesville PA/NP (Surgical assist experience required) General Surgery Gainesville LPN or CMA (Previous OB or GYN experience) OB/GYN Gainesville LPN or CMA Family Medicine Oakwood Neonatal Nurse Practitioner or Physician Asst.

Gainesville All positions are full time unless noted.

Full-time employees may be eligible for paid days off, health insurance and a generous retirement plan. Salary commensurate with experience. Previous medical office experience preferred.

Spanish/English skills desirable. Interested candidates may submit resumes via fax to 770-535-7445 Attn: Employment E-mail to: HR@longstreet clinic.com or complete an application at 725 Jesse Jewell Pkwy., Suite 270, Gainesville, GA 30501. For additional info about the Longstreet Clinic., P.C., please visit our website: www.long streetclinic.com

245-Misc.

Help Wanted Carriage KIA/Nissan in Gainesville, GA. has 3 Full time Positions available for Oil Change/Light Duty Tech ALSO Parts Driver.

Please send resume rtapp@carriageautogroup.com

250Offices/Clerical FT Customer Service Rep/Clerical Asst: professionalism, effective oral comm../phone skills & dependability essential.

For inbound sales, corporate & ind. client maintenance.

HS diploma or equivalent req.

Associates or higher preferred. Fax resume 770.889.9054

255-Part Time Help Wanted New office opening in Gainesville area! Needing to fill several positions!

Please call 770-614-9952 for more information!

260-Poultry Harrison Poultry, Inc is now accepting applications for the following position: Poultry Processing Supervisor Pay is based on exp.

To apply, stop by to fill out an application at: Harrison Poultry Inc, 107 Star Street, Bethlehem, GA 30620

270-Professional LANGUAGE PROGRAM DIRECTOR Set educational standards & goals; Develop teaching materials to create an effective curriculum; Evaluate curricula, teaching methods, and rate of learning.

Req: Master’s in Management of Language Learning or TESL. Send resume: Maranatha Ministries of Hall County, Inc., ATTN: Delma Simmons, 5135 McEver Road, Oakwood, GA 30566.

Maranatha is an E.O.E. The City of Commerce, is currently hiring for the positions of: K-9 Officer: Requires applicants be GA P.O.S.T. Certified, 21 yrs of age, possess valid D/L, a H.S. diploma/equiv. at time of application.

In addition to being POST certified, applicant must have a minimum of 2 yrs experience as a K-9 handler AND live within a 30 minute response time to the Commerce city limits. Applicants must pass extensive preemployment screen.

Police Officer Recruit: Must possess GED or H.S. dipl. Must possess valid Georgia D/L. Applicants must be able to meet all requirements as set forth for the GA POST Council.

Application and complete job descriptions available on the city’s website www.commercega.org. May also apply at City Hall 27 Sycamore St. Commerce, GA Please direct all inquiries to: tracyw@commercega.org The City of Commerce is an EOE and a drug-free workplace.

SEEKING STAFF ATTORNEY for the Hall-Dawson (Court Appointed Special Advocate) CASA Program, a non-profit organization with the mission to ensure abused children have a voice in court and a right to a safe and permanent home. Qualifications: Law Degree preferably in juvenile law. Please send resume and references to: connielstephens@bell south.net or P.O. Box 907471 Gainesville, Ga. 30501-0908

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

280-Trades Experienced Boat Rigger/Technician $12 - $15 per hour.

Terry at 770-718-1144.

280-Trades

AXIOM STAFFING Now Hiring: Stand Up FORKLIFT DRIVERS Apply on-site, 9am-3pm at: Kubota Manufacturing 2715 Ramsey Rd., Gainesville, GA 30501 770-532-0038 ext. 12066

LIFT CHAIR- Large size. Burgundy.

Never used. $700.

770-536-0688

CLASS A CDL Drivers needed.

Must have clean MVR, 2 yrs. exp.

Must comply with all DOT reg. Apply @ 4880 Leland Dr. Cumming, GA or Call 770-887-6117 Driver

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

290-Warehouse Employment Plus is actively searching for qualified Line Leaders, Maintenance Technicians, Tool Setters, Production Associates, and Clerical Office Support. Please apply online at www.employment plus.com and then call the office at 770-503-9911 to speak with a recruiting professional.

SHIPPING & MFG POSITIONS ENERGETIX, a Dahlonega/ Gainesville area co., is looking for several responsible, reliable people with great attention to detail & quality control to add to our Shipping & Manufacturing Depts. Experience not requiredwe will train. All positions are F/T. We Offer: •Great work env.

•Advancement opps •Competitive comp (Start at $8-9/hr) •Benefits include (Paid Time Off & Holidays) Must be able to lift 70lb boxes.

Send resume to: hrmanager@go energetix.com or FAX to 866-484-8071. EOE

Stuff 300 310-Appliances WASHER & DRYER, Kenmore, Exc cond $250. 770-983-1507 Washer/Dryers Stoves & Refrig.

Mattresses.

Also Appliance Repairs. We Do Service Calls!

678-714-0493 Washers $100; Dryers $75; Stoves $125. Cash for unwanted Appliances.

678-546-9184 or 678-617-5560

326-Cemetery Lots For Sale

TANNERS MILL 16x20 Prints, Taken in 1983. Limited Ed. $100 each. Call 770-540-5861 TRAILER- 2axle, heavy duty, 20 ft.

Wilderness camper steel frame, new trailer tires, 16in. sides with tail gate. $1000/firm.

Will deliver 706-776-5275

Treadmill /NordicTrack C1800 Good condition $280.

Total Gym XLS new $585.

Inversion table Teeter Hang-ups $224 Aquarium 50 gallon w/ all accessories.

Good Condition $120 China cabinet, medium oak color 4 doors, lighted w/ 4 doors & 4 drawers hutch separated by mirror. Excellent condition. $775 678-897-8881

370-Musical Instruments Organ - Hammond w/bench $5000; Clavinova Yamaha. $500. Both Never played. $5500/both 770-869-7988

380-Pets & Supplies AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD Beautiful Puppies.

Born Jan 4th. $125.

706-864-5331

Biewer Yorkies CKC. 1st shots & dewormed. 1 male $600; Female $700.

706-809-9096 CHIHUAHUA Puppies, 1 male, 1 female, $200/ea.

706-348-8070 or 770-519-9066 CHIHUAHUA- 6mos old, female. Black & tan, 1st shots & spayed. $150.

678-400-1069 Chihuahua/Afferin Pincher Mix. Born Oct 18, Female. $100 706-864-5331 Fluffy Companion MALTI-POO male, shots/wormed. $300. 706-892-6153 or 706-892-6154 FOR SALE German shorthaired pointers 706-348-3180 TINY TOY POODLE Black female, AKC. shots/wormed. $400 706-865-1640 YORKIE-POO, up to date on all shots, beautiful, $375.

678-836-3605

387-Tickets HAWAII- 2 round trip air fares. Leave Atlanta. $199 ea.

1-800-518-7293

390-Wanted To Buy

Memorial Pk Hillside #1, Lot 240A, Space 3, Value: $4000; Sell for $2500/negot.

678-450-9264

Homes & Rentals 400

Moving Furniture Sale Everything Must Go! Sofa, chair, ottoman (set), Sectional Sofa, Glass dinette set w/4ch, Chaise Lounge, Leather Office Chair, book cases & decor.

Bill 770-744-1456

360-Livestock DONKEYS- Young 1 year old; Bred Jinnies- pregnant; Older Jack (3yrs) Starting at $100.

706-865-3862

365-Misc.

For Sale

410-Apartments Unfurnished $599 MOVES U IN! BRANDON PLACE 2BR/2BA $675 Efficiency $475 SPRING VALLEY 1BR/1BA $575 UP 2BR/2BA $675 UP GainesvilleGa Apartments.com $599 Moves U In!!

JACKY MATHIS

678-779-2687 $599 MOVES U IN! BRANDON PLACE 2BR/2BA $675 Efficiency $475 SPRING VALLEY 1BR/1BA $575 UP 2BR/2BA $675 UP GainesvilleGa Apartments.com $599 Moves U In!!

JACKY MATHIS

678-779-2687 1 to 3BR‘s starting at $495. Move-in Specials! 770-536-0508 2 BD 1.5 BA 850sq.ft. $570+dep Browns Brdg Rd. Call 404-643-8302

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Limited Ed. Prints of Lakeshore Mall Carousal. 16x20 prints. Now Available! $75 ea.

770-540-5861

Oakwood- Cedar Springs. 2BR $675.

770-287-1456 www.callapartments. com Oakwood-2/1.5, yard very safe, H/A $605$645. 678-357-5044

420-Condos For Rent 2/2 w/Garage, Quiet, 1story, Sardis $775mo 770-967-6599

435-Houses for Rent Unfurnished Application Fee 3BR/2BA HOMES Now Available!!

NO RENT until April 1, 2013

SUN HOMES 888-246-2803 countrysidelakelanier. com EHO WAC 2BR/1BA- E. Hall. $550/mo or $130/wk.

706-654-0958 3BR/2BA Lakefront Homes. Great location. $825-$1250.

770-539-4400 3BR/2BA-on priv lot, Hwy 129N. $650mo.

Ref & Dep req’d. No pets. 770-540-3800 4BR/1.5BA C/H/A fenced yrd. $850 + dep. 678-316-6721 E. Hall- 3BR/2BA. built 2004. Well, bsmt. $800 + dep.

678-316-0708 FLWRY BR -1BR. Older home. C/H/A. Ref. $450dep; $450 mo. 770-967-6948 HOUSES & APTS Avail. in Gainesville & Hall Co. The Simpson Co. 770-532-9911 Oakwood 3BR/1BA carport. $875 + dep.

770-654-5154

WANTED: Portable duel cassette deck and Old Testament on audio cassette.

678-622-9790

Leather Sofa & Chair- Burgundy.

Good Cond. $300.

678-316-9100

G’Ville- 2BR $610/mo water/trash incld. No pets 678-677-1898

$0

2 Cemetery PlotsMemorial Park. $10,000 for Both.

770-654-5089

345-Furniture

410-Apartments Unfurnished

LUXURY 3BR/2.5BA 1900sf. 820 Park St. $900m. Refs reqd.

Near Brenau & Hospital 770-534-3577

285-Truck Drivers

275-Restaurant Seeking F/T Exper.

Grill Cook.

Starting pay based on experience.

Must enjoy fast paced, team driven environment.

Apply in person 2-4 pm only please.

The Collegiate Grill 220 Main ST SW Gainesville GA 30501

365-Misc.

For Sale

770-535-1199

2/1, 1 level, ideal for elderly/handicap, 750/m. $500 dep. No pets. 770-967-4054 2BR/1.5BA Buford Apts.

Ask about Specials!

678-765-0262

470-Rooms for Rent Rooms For Rent in Lula, GA. $110/wk.

Utils included.

706-776-2017

Homes & Real Estate 500 505-Acreage for Sale N.Hall Area. 2 acres. Lake View.

Deep well & septic tank. $45k/obo.

770-262-5994

OAKWOOD 2BR/ 2.5BA Townhouse.

Crawford Oaks sbdv. $70K. 678-668-5288

565-Lots for Sale BANK OWNED SALE Bank is selling off all their homesites in a beautiful subdivision in Habersham County, GA. Half-acre to 5 acre lots available, starting at just $4,900.

Gorgeous rolling hills and beautiful views, along with heavily wooded lots. Waterfront lots available.

Subdivision has its own clubhouse with fitness center, pool, tennis & basketball court. All underground utilities in place including sewer & water. Call bank directly for information!

800-684-4611

Recreation 600 605-Boats & Marine BOAT DOCK 30x24 w/gable roof. dbl Slip 4’x40’ gangway w/wheels. $3000.

Call Brad, 770-540-1775

2BR/1BA $120/wk We pay $100/utils No pet 770-289-9142

2010 Forest River Sunseeker 2960.

Excellent condition, many extras, less than 5,000 miles, stored under cover. $52,900.

706-968-3966

E. Hall 2/1, lrg paved patio, water/lawn care incld. $200/dep; $120wk. No pets!

770-654-6859

Wheels 700

LULA -2BR/1BA 5158 Whitehall Rd. $500/mo, $500/dep 678-316-8253

465-Roommates Wanted Lowe$t Men Fur Hse BR, All Priv + Xtras Oakwd. 770-530-1110 To Share 3BR/2BA Home. Private bath.

Must have steady income. $450/mo.

Barb, 770-733-5453

470-Rooms for Rent $95/wk, Furnished all utils & cable, W/D. kitch. 770-561-0781 Efficiencies $115/wk & up incls. utils/ cable. 770-539-2938

CADILLAC 2000 Deville, 4.6L, V8, 79K miles, $9,888 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 CADILLAC 2011 DTS Platinum, fully loaded plus. Gray/dark gray interior 27K Excellent $42,850 certified 770-538-0181

CHEVY 2011 Cruze LTZ, 1.4L, 4 cyl., 28K miles, $18,999.

MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

CHEVY 2011 Malibu 1LT, 3.2L 4 cyl., 32K miles, $15,555.

MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 CHRYSLER 1994 Lebaron. Cnvt. auto, V6, green/gray. New top/tires. 157k. $1695. 770-262-8200

CHRYSLER 2007 Pacifica, 4.0L, V6, 95K, $11,555 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 FORD 2007 Focus SE. Good Condition. $4800.

770-714-0974

FORD 2011 Escape, 2.5L, 4 cyl., 23K miles, $21,999 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

HUMMER 2003 H2.

Fully loaded with all the goodies. One owner. Fully Chrome Package inside and out. Three 7-inch Headrest Monitors.

10-inch Roof Mount Monitor. Back-up Camera System. Four Wireless Movie2Go Headsets. Sunroof.

Bose Sound System.

A MUST SEE!!!!!

18,999.00 Call 706-429-6810

765-Trucks CHEVY 2004. SSR. Like New! Only 4800 miles. Priced below Kelly Blue Book price. Buy before Mar. 1st and save nearly $2000 on sales tax.

770-533-2921

CHEVY 2006 Colorado, 3.5L, 5 cyls., 23K miles, $18,888 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 CHEVY 2007 Colorado, 1 owner, exc. cond., 44K miles, $9,500.

770-869-3305

610-RVs & Travel Trailers

460-Mobile Homes for Rent

Reduced Rate Free Rent Starting at $85/wk. N. & S. Hall & Gainesville.

770-534-7596

755-Sport-Utility Vehicles CHEVY 2008 Equinox, exc. cond., $8,300. By owner.

770-539-2562

545-House for Sale - South Hall

Oakwood 3BR/1BA carport. $875 + dep.

770-654-5154

2BR/1BA- Single wide, Lula & E. Hall.

706-654-0958

735-Autos for Sale

710-Antique Cars/Trucks CADILLAC 1986 Sdn DeVille 89k, Exc 1 owner. $4000/obo.

Possible truck trade 770-967-0751 770-841-4548

725-Autos & Trucks Wanted PAY CASH FOR Junk Cars & Trucks 678-617-3075

735-Autos for Sale

FORD 2008 Fusion, 2.3L, 4 cyl., 21K miles, $13,999 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

CHEVY 2011 Silverado 1500 LT, 5.3L V8, 35K $29,777.

MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 DODGE 1994 Ram 1500 as is. Runs, needs work. $1,000 or BO. Cash only.

770 965-4912

FORD 2009 Fusion SE, 3.0L V6, 83K miles, $11,555.

MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200 LINCOLN 2000 LS. V8, auto, blk, alarm, sunrf, nonsmkr, all maint records. $5400.678-897-8570 SATURN 2000 factory right hand drive Saturn station wagon. Rebuilt transmission still under warranty, new rack & pinion steering. Great for mail or paper route. $3250 OBO 770-983-0833 or 678-549-5480

750-Motorcycles

FORD 1992 F-250.

7.3. Diesel. Great Cond. $4000.

706-219-2621 FORD 1997 F-150 XLT Red, V-6, 5 speed, Air, everything works, clean $2800 678-414-3880 or 706-654-2567 FORD 1999 F-250 XLT. Super Cab. 4WD, 5.4L, gas, 130k, Exc Cond. $9,250/obo.

770-540-0854 ISUZU 1988 Black, Runs Good! New battery. Good tires. $1450. 770-540-8573 MITSUBISHI 2008 Raider Pickup, 12,000 miles, $13,000.

770-534-9658

770-Vans

CADILLAC 1999 DeVille, 4.6L, V8, 55K miles, $9,777 MOSS ROBERTSON Call Today 770-535-2200

HONDA 2000 Valkyrie Interstate Trike. Runs Great!

Always garaged. One owner. $16,500.

770-965-2268 Cell: 404-697-3362

HONDA 2007 Odyssey EX-L, 136K mi, excellent condition, blue, dvd, 6 cd changer. Sole owner, meticulously maintained, leather, new tires. $12,900.

404-791-2399

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