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Montgomery Dampier signs LOI with Georgia Southern

By
TFS Athletics
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Pictured, dad Kyle Dampier, Montgomery Dampier, mom Regina Dampier (photo by Lane Gresham)

Tallulah Falls School elite swimmer Montgomery Dampier put pen to paper in her commitment to continue her swim and academic career at Georgia Southern University on Thursday afternoon.

Dampier, of Tiger, signed her national letter of intent with the Georgia Southern Eagles, an NCAA Division-I member of the Sun Belt Conference. Dampier will continue her career in Statesboro beginning next fall.

“I am very excited for Montgomery to be joining us here at Georgia Southern in the fall,” says Georgia Southern coach Amanda Caldwell. “She will make an immediate impact in our distance events and I look forward to her adding to our growing championship team culture.”

Dampier joined TFS just this school year and wasted no time in becoming a leader.

“Montgomery quickly fit in at TFS and demonstrated a distinct ability to listen, learn, and lead,” says Athletic Director Scott Neal. “Respected and appreciated by her peers, she swiftly earned a legacy of performance, purpose, and positivity. She has set her sights high and put in the work to match those aspirations, setting an example for others.”

Dampier, who was surrounded by family, friends, teammates, and others in the TFS community, celebrated her signing in the brand new TFS Natatorium. Dampier has been outstanding in the course of her senior season so far. She currently holds the school record in the 500 Free at 5:16.45 and is part of the school-record setting 200 Medley Relay (2:00.91).

Dampier is the first TFS athlete this year to sign a letter of intent to pursue an athletic and academic career in college. She is the 6th TFS swimmer in history to go on to compete at the next level.

Coach Rachel Nichols spoke at the signing about how Georgia Southern is not only getting a great swimmer but a passionate and detail-oriented one. TFS President Larry A. Peevy stated that he believes Dampier will raise the standard at Georgia Southern, while her father, Kyle Dampier, thanked the TFS community for their love and support to the family.

Meals on Wheels gaining volunteers, but needs more

By
Hadley Cottingham
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Virgil Williams grabs a box of food to take on his route. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

The Habersham County Senior Center has struggled to find volunteers for their Meals on Wheels program, which provides food to senior citizens who cannot go out and get the food they need on their own.

Habersham County Meals on Wheels Program Specialist Teri Lewis says that the program lost around 20 volunteers last year due to COVID-19, and finding new volunteers has been a struggle. But ever since Meals on Wheels reached out to their Habersham community for help, Lewis says several people have joined the program with four new volunteers “in the works.”

Meals on Wheels volunteer Shanna Hill was excited to start her route, bringing meals to senior citizens in need. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

“We are getting the gaps covered, but we never know who will drop off at any given time due to life changes,” Lewis tells Now Habersham. “It takes a bit to get started as they have to go through a background check and fingerprinting, orientation and route training so a steady trickle is a good thing.”

While these new volunteers and applicants are adding to the program’s essential volunteer force, Meals on Wheels still needs more help. Each month, Meals on Wheels delivers 3,500 meals, with six daily delivery routes and two additional frozen meal delivery routes.

Habersham County’s Meals on Wheels program currently delivers food to about 160 senior citizens, who otherwise wouldn’t have a meal. For many of these seniors, their interactions with Meals on Wheels volunteers are some of the only social interactions they get, making deliveries even more important.

 

Anyone over 18 years old who wants to get involved with Meals on Wheels should contact the Habersham County Senior Center at (706) 839-0260 and ask to speak with the volunteer coordinator. Volunteers will be required to undergo a background check and fingerprinting, which costs $47.50— the fee is optional for volunteers to pay.

Volunteers use their own vehicles and gasoline to complete deliveries.

Arlin Wilburn Pitts

By
Now Habersham
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Arlin Wilburn Pitts, 89, a native and lifelong resident of Gainesville was born November 19, 1932, and died December 1. 2021.

His parents, William and Flora Pitts, sister and brother-in-law, Florence and Carl Pointer, and brother and sister-in-law, Calvin “Doc” and Tommie Pitts preceded him in death.

Survivors include two nieces, Barbara (David)Watkins, Robbinsville, North Carolina, Michael (David) Braselton, Gainesville and four great-nephews, Josh (Sarah) Watkins and Ross (Kim) Watkins, Dylan and Mason Braselton; great-niece, Mattie Watkins & great-nephew, Myles Watkins.

Arlin graduated from Gainesville High School in 1949, served a tour of duty in the US Navy as an electronics technician and in 1981 graduated Magna Cum Laude from North Georgia College and State University (UNG) with a degree in accounting. His career in business, computers and finance began at Gainesville Mill (Milliken Co.) and continued to Nally Discount Company, Gene Tyner Foods, Bates Carter & Co. and Georgia Boot Company.

In 1978, Arlin was employed by the Hall County Commission to install the first computer system jointly for Hall County Government and Hall County School System. From Data Processing Manager he was made Controller and in 1996 he retired after 18 years with Hall County as the Director of Finance. While working for Hall County as Director of Finance he earned a Certificate of Public Management and Certified Finance Officer, Level II from The Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia.

From 1991 until 1996 he was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association. After retiring Arlin worked part-time with the Public Defender’s Office, ran the Riverbend Voting Precinct and helped in the election’s office during early voting, most recently working at Publix as a cashier.

Arlin was a charter member of the Gainesville Chorale (now Voices of North Georgia.) He enjoyed serving on the Pro Musica Concert Series Board as the treasurer. He was choir director and/or organist at Emmanuel Baptist Church for 25 years. He delighted in belonging to First Baptist Church on Green Street and singing with that choir for the past several years. He enjoyed playing piano and organ at Trinity Presbyterian Church on an as-needed basis and also in other religious/spiritual settings.

His interest in genealogy led him to discover 1400 family names dating back to the 1600s, and for a few years participated in the BULLI Program at Brenau University. Arlin enjoyed travel and made several trips to Thailand and visited other locations in the United States, Europe and Australia.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Arlin’s memory and unfinished plans, mentor a student, take a friend out for a meal, consider taking a defensive driver education course and guard against scams.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 4, 2021, at the Alta Vista Cemetery with Rev. David Watkins officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Please share online condolences with the family at www.wardsfh.com. Ward’s Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Arlin Wilburn Pitts.

Cornelia man charged with rape

By
Staff Report
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A 22-year-old Cornelia man is in jail charged with rape. Michael Jared Stoner was arrested on November 29.

“This incident occurred against an adult female in August 2021 in the City of Cornelia,” says Cornelia Police Chief Chad Smith. He says it was “an isolated incident” with no other known victims.

The investigation began in August after the victim called 911 and asked police to meet her at Walmart in Cornelia following the alleged rape, Chief Smith says. Preliminary investigative results led to Stoner’s arrest. He says detectives are currently completing their investigation.

Stoner was booked into the Habersham County Detention Center. A judge denied him bond and as of December 2, he remained in jail.

Jury convicts Stephens County man of incest and child molestation

By
Staff Report
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A Stephens County man has been convicted of incest and child molestation in the Stephens County Superior Court.

Kevin Wayne Ford, 37, was convicted of incest and child molestation following a two-day trial.

The trial was held before Mountain Judicial Circuit Judge B. Chan Caudell between Dec. 1-Dec. 2, during which Ford was convicted by a jury. The State of Georgia was represented by Chief Assistant District Attorney Suzanne Boykin, along with Assistant District Attorney Sarah Carbo.

The case was handled by the Toccoa Police Department and the Rabun County Sheriff’s Office. They were assisted by Ruthie Zoellner of Faith’s Powerhouse, a Child Advocacy Center serving Stephens, Rabun and Habersham Counties.

Ford will be sentenced on Dec. 15.

Demorest ushers in Christmas season with outdoor celebration

By
Staff Report
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(Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

Demorest kicked off its Christmas season on Wednesday with an outdoor celebration and lighting of the Christmas tree, with a special visit from Santa Claus himself.

The Demorest Elementary School Choir, music from Demorest Concord Baptist and the choir from Demorest Baptist Church performed during the event, singing Christmas carols and festive tunes for Demorest citizens.

“It was a great turnout,” City Manager Kim Simonds said. “It’s just nice that people are able to get out and get together again and be in each other’s company, and enjoy Christmas.”

A crowd of citizens gathered to hear Demorest Elementary students and the Demorest Baptist Church choir sing. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

A day earlier, the city lit up its new streetlight decorations. The city glowed with magical light as song filled the air.

“[This is] a phenomenal event with a great turnout,” Mayor Rick Austin said. “It’s a magical time of year, and it went well this year, I’m pleased. I’m proud to be part of a community that will continue to do this kind of thing.”

 

 

Santa made a special visit to the children of Demorest, arriving to the event in the city’s fire truck alongside Demorest firefighters.

“It’s so nice to be back without having to wear a mask, seeing everybody happy, joyful and full of the Christmas spirit,” Santa told Now Habersham.

Santa shares candy and chocolate with Demorest’s children after taking photos and sharing their Christmas lists. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

 

 

 

 

Habersham County’s annual Christmas Parade is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, December 7, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Cornelia. Parades are also scheduled in Toccoa, Cleveland, Clayton, Gainesville and Helen, just to name a few.

For more information on area holiday events, click here.

 

Frances S. Goodman

By
Now Habersham
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Frances S. Goodman, 88, of Toccoa passed away Sunday, November 28, 2021.

Born in Kansas in 1933, Frances was the daughter of the late Joseph & Mary Elizabeth Sandmann.

Frances was a proud mother and grandmother, as well as a member of Clarkesville Baptist Church. In addition to a long career at Ethicon in Cornelia, she is remembered as a friendly face at the Cornelia Walmart and a helpful neighbor who embodied midwestern hospitality. She was an avid supporter of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s various school events, dance performances, music recitals, science clubs, FFA adventures, scout clubs, and more.

She is survived by her husband Harley, with whom she celebrated 72 wonderful years of marriage, her daughter Shirley Doss, son Dennis Goodman, and granddaughter Amber Harmon who they adopted and enthusiastically spoiled as their fourth child. Survivors also include brother Tony Sandmann, sister-in-law Colleen Sandmann, sons-in-law Dennis Doss and Mark Harmon, daughter-in-law Deborah Goodman, grandchildren James Milligan, Ricky Goodman, II, DJ Goodman, great-grandsons Nathaniel Doss and Sebastian Harmon, great-granddaughter Lilly Goodman, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and neighbors she adored.

Members of Frances’s Welcoming Committee to Heaven include her late son Ricky Goodman, sister Mary Catherine Halcomb, brothers Joe Sandmann and Jack Sandmann.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 PM Saturday, December 4, 2021, at the Whitfield Funeral Home and Crematory, North Chapel, Demorest, Georgia with Rev. Grady Walden officiating. Interment will follow in Yonah Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive visitors at the funeral home from 5:00-7:00 PM Friday, December 3, 2021.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.

140 coats donated to Head Start in memory of teacher

By
Hadley Cottingham
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Samantha Ray (left) and Head Start teacher Jenni Stephens (right) pose with the 140 coats collected for Head Start kids. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

There are few things in the world as warm as a teacher’s love, but a coat for a child donated in a beloved teacher’s memory is awfully close.

Habersham County Head Start Teacher Tiffany Moss passed away at the beginning of the school year due to COVID-19, leaving behind a legacy of love for Head Start students.

Samantha Ray is the mother of one of Moss’s former students, who Moss left a deep impact on with her kindness and generosity. Ray wanted to keep giving in her honor, and make sure the children she cared so much about at Head Start continued to have their needs met in her absence.

Ray began her coat drive in memory of Moss in November, and within just a few short weeks, had collected more than 140 coats to donate to Head Start. Wednesday morning, she brought them to the school.

Ray (left) and Stephens (right) unload coats into the Head Start library. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

Habersham community members came together to make sure Head Start students had warm coats to bundle up in this winter, with one woman donating 93 coats to the drive. After sharing her story with Now Habersham, more people reached out to donate.

“Several employees from Piedmont University reached out to me,” Ray said. “[They] gave us about six coats and a whole bag of mittens and hats.”

With the community’s help, the Head Start library is now full of brand-new coats, warm hats and tiny mittens to keep Habersham’s children in need cozy this winter.

Head Start teacher Jenni Stephens, who taught with Moss, helps bring in donated coats. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

“[Dropping off coats] was absolutely amazing,” Ray said. “I was so excited about how they greeted me at the door when I first got here, and they told me about how they’re going to present them [the coats] to the kids.”

The school plans to organize the donated coats by size and let parents and students pick out the perfect coat. They hope to have this event in the near future and have a “fashion show” where kids can take photos in their new coats.

“I plan on coming back, because this is incredible,” Ray said.

Life in Motion: Sunset

By
Joy Purcell
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(photo by Ginger Rabern)

There are few things in life as universal as the rising and setting of the sun. The natural swirls of color can be awe-inspiring, sometimes downright breathtaking. Sunrises and sunsets create moments we can experience and enjoy together, no matter where we live.

Such is the case with the beautiful fall sunsets we’ve been experiencing in Northeast Georgia.

Now Habersham captured the sunset in Clarkesville on the first night of December, and dozens of you shared your views with us.

Different locations.

Different perspectives.

One beautiful sight proving there are still things in this world that unite us.

Share and enjoy more gorgeous sunset pictures on Now Habersham’s Facebook page.

Is there a gardener on your Christmas list?

By
Mitzi Oxford
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Want to give a gift that keeps on giving for seasons to come? If you are buying for a family member or friend who gardens we can help you with that. Whether you’re searching for gifts for a beginner or experienced gardener, it’s hard to fail with something useful that makes their tasks easier or inspires some creative planting.

As someone who has been gardening most of my life, the gifts that feed my passion for growing are always some of my favorite and most memorable treasures for Christmas or any occasion.

Here is the ultimate “idea” list for the green thumb wannabes or master gardeners on your gift list.

Handy garden tools

Digging, weeding, pruning, and scooping out potting mix are all part of the garden routine. These tools are a “must” for those tasks. These are my personal favorites. Many have been gifts and they are cost effective but well made to last for years.

Fiskars makes some great pruning shears. I prefer these with a softgrip. They are easy to use and with a little annual maintenance, including cleaning with WD 40 to prevent rust, should last forever.

A stainless steel scoop is perfect for lifting out mulch, garden soil, or potting mix when spring planting season comes round. Again a little maintenance by storing it out of the elements goes a long way.

Finally, every gardener needs a good pair of gloves for weeding and planting. I like the ones with a latex on the palm of the glove. Tractor Supply in Cornelia usually runs some great prices for these which comes in handy when you go through several pairs a year.

Garden Journal

I’ve previously written about keeping a garden journal. The benefits are many and the choices are endless. Some include an area to sketch out your dream garden. Some include gardening tips and famous garden quotes. All of them have a space for taking notes about when and what you planted and what is performing well or not from month-to-month. This is great info to look back on from year to year. Why? It can save you time and money!

There are many to choose from including some with artistic covers or not. Prices range from $10 to $25 but they are all a great investment for the gardener in your life.

Watering globes

I love these watering globes for many reasons. You can fill them with water and not have to fuss over watering your plants. Plus, they are like a work of art to add interest to your planters. Walmart carries them and they are available at garden centers or online. The globes generally come in sets of three in a variety of colors.

Gardening Books and subscriptions

For years I’ve been gifted gardening books and magazine subscriptions for Christmas and occasionally on the anniversary of my birth date which comes round in March. These are some of my favorite gifts because when the weather is cold and dreary, I can lose myself in thumbing through the pages for ideas and beautiful illustrations.

A couple of years ago, my niece gave me a subscription to Birds and Blooms. I fell in love. It contained great gardening tips and planting to attract birds information. Additionally, the magazine contains monthly contests. How fun is that?

Gift certificates and donations

You can NEVER go wrong with a gift certificate either from a local nursery or garden center. If you are buying for a more experienced green thumb gardener and looking for some unique plants, here are a few of my favorite online places for gift giving. Gilbert H. Wild and Bluestone Perennials are two of my favorites.

Another idea is to give a donation in someone’s name. I can’t think of a better organization to support than the Soque River Watershed Association. Their work makes our community a better place. As a bonus, they operate the Clarkesville Greenway Community Garden, Habersham County’s first public organic community garden!

Plants

I love to give orchids as gifts, especially phalaenopsis. They are the easiest to grow and with little maintenance should last for at least three months. Few flowering plants are more beautiful than orchids and they will bloom again with a little TLC.

Happy shopping! Whatever you select from this list will be much appreciated by the gardener in your life!

NGTC Poinsettia sale continues through Dec. 9

By
Staff Report
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If poinsettias are part of your holiday decorating plan, you may want to make North Georgia Technical College in Clarkesville a stop on your shopping map.

NGTC is hosting its annual poinsettia plant sale through December 9. The sale features red, white, and glitter poinsettias, Christmas cacti, and holiday-colored begonias.

The greenhouses on the Clarkesville NGTC campus are open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday,

Cards, cash, and checks are accepted, and all sales must be made in person.

The NGTC greenhouses are located at 1500 Highway 197 North. For more information, contact John Mather, environmental horticulture lab assistant, at [email protected].

Semifinal previews

By
Todd Holcomb
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Class A Public

Wilcox County at Irwin County

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Buddy Nobles Stadium, Ocilla

Records, rankings: Wilcox County is 10-3, the No. 1 seed from Region 4-A Public and No. 8; Irwin County is 11-2, the No. 1 seed from 2-A Public and No. 1.

Last meeting: Irwin County won 14-0 in the second round of the 2020 Class A Public playoffs.

Things to know: These south Georgia schools, about 30 miles apart, had been in the same region since 2006 until last year, and the playoffs have maintained their streak of playing each other annually. Irwin County has won eight straight in the series since Wilcox County’s last region title in 2012. Irwin is trying to become the first Class A public-school team to win three consecutive Class A titles since Lincoln County in 1985-87. The Indians defeated previously unbeaten Macon County 28-15 in the quarterfinals. Damarkus Lundy rushed for 156 yards and three touchdowns. He’s rushed for more than 150 yards in all three playoff games and has 1,414 rushing yards on the season. Wilcox County is in the semifinals for the first time since 2012. The Patriots’ last final was during its 2009 state championship season. Wilcox beat Manchester 20-14 in the quarterfinals. Preseason all-state QB Abe Stowe passed for 181 yards, putting him a 2,068 for the season. Day Day Lawson rushed for 94 yards, giving him 1,353 yards on the season. B.J. Gibson had 93 yards receiving. Irwin’s average score is 39-14. Wilcox’s is 26-22.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Irwin County 31, Wilcox County 8

Brooks County at Metter

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Tiger Stadium/The Jungle, Metter

Records, rankings: Brooks County is 10-2, the No. 2 seed from Region 2-A Public and No. 2; Metter is 13-0, the No. 1 seed from 3-A Public and No. 4.

Last meeting: Brooks County won 35-6 in the 2019 Class A Public quarterfinals.

Things to know: Metter is in the semifinals for the sixth time in history. The Tigers have never reached a final. For the second straight season, they are 13-0 at this point. They lost to eventual champion Irwin County in the 2020 semifinals. In the quarterfinals last week, Metter beat Turner County 60-21 with 574 rushing yards. Two-way starters Kaliq Jordan (150 yards rushing, 10 tackles) and Danny Cheley (161 rushing, eight tackles, one interception) had big games. Metter is the most run-oriented team remaining in Class A Public. Cheley (1,242 yards) and Josh Kelly (1,587) are each over 1,200 yards rushing. Brooks County has been a state runner-up the past two seasons. The Trojans beat Warren County 51-43 last week for their eighth straight victory, each time scoring at least 42 points. Omari Arnold rushed for 249 yards and five touchdowns on 28 carries and went over 2,000 yards (2,071) for the season with 34 rushing touchdowns. Willie Brown had 114 yards receiving. Brooks’ losses are to Irwin County and Thomasville, which also are in their semifinals.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Metter 30, Brooks County 23

Class A Private

Trinity Christian at ELCA

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Commitment Field, McDonough

Records, rankings: Trinity Christian is 12-0, the No. 1 seed from Region 4-A Private and No. 1; Eagle’s Landing Christian is 7-6, the No. 1 seed from 2-A Private and No. 5.

Last meeting: Trinity Christian won 34-3 on Oct. 1.

Things to know: Trinity Christian, the A Private runner-up in 2020, returned to the semifinals with a 56-7 victory over Darlington last week. The Lions are the state’s highest-scoring team, averaging 53.25 points per game, and their closest game this season was the 31-point win over ELCA in the regular season. David Dallas passed for 228 yards in that game and has thrown for 3,307 yards and 41 touchdowns with just three interceptions for the season. His brother, Josh, has 1,043 receiving yards, and Dominick Cosper has 1,200 yards rushing and 496 receiving. ELCA, which started the season 2-6 against a schedule loaded with top-10 opponents from higher classifications and out-of-state powerhouses, is now two wins away from its sixth state title in seven seasons. Charlie Gilliam passed for 257 yards in a 35-28 victory over Holy Innocents’ last week. He has 1,831 yards and 16 TDs this season. Brandon Hood, a 1,300-yard rusher, ran for 81 yards and two touchdowns. His 19-yard TD run with about three minutes left gave the Chargers a 35-21 lead, and they held on. ELCA is averaging 27.42 points for the season but 43.25 during their five-game winning streak (one win was a forfeit).

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Trinity Christian 34, Eagle’s Landing Christian 14

Prince Avenue at Fellowship Christian

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Bob Lord Field, Roswell

Records, rankings: Prince Avenue Christian is 12-1, the No. 1 seed from Region 8-A Private and No. 3; Fellowship Christian is 12-1, the No. 1 seed from 6-A Private and No. 4.

Last meeting: Fellowship Christian won 31-28 in the 2016 Class A Private semifinals.

Things to know: Defending state champion Prince Avenue Christian has won 12 consecutive games since a 21-13 loss to Calvary Day in the opener. Fellowship Christian, which has won 11 straight since a 56-20 loss to Trinity Christian in its second game, knocked out Calvary Day 24-14 last week. Nick Persiano rushed for 110 yards to surpass 1,000 for the season (1,059 with 22 touchdowns). QB Caleb McMickle has passed for 1,850 yards for the year. A victory this week would put first-year Paladins coach Tim McFarlin in the finals for the sixth time (Roswell in 2006, Blessed Trinity in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019). Prince Avenue put up 481 yards in a 41-22 victory over First Presbyterian last week. Aaron Philo was 28-of-35 passing for 397 yards and three touchdowns, putting him at 3,819 yards and 42 TDs for the season. Seven players had at least one catch. Bailey Stockton surpassed 1,000 yards receiving for the year with his six catches for 61 yards. He also ran for 32 yards and two touchdowns on three carries. Elijah Dewitt (917) and Ethan Christian (870) also are closing in on 1,000 yards receiving. Dewitt had seven catches for 140 yards and two TDs last week.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Fellowship Christian 26, Prince Avenue Christian 24

Class 2A

Fitzgerald at Swainsboro

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Tiger Field, Swainsboro

Records, rankings: Fitzgerald is 11-2, the No. 2 seed from Region 1-2A and No. 5; Swainsboro is 11-2, the No. 1 seed from 2-2A and No. 10.

Last meeting: Fitzgerald won 27-12 in the second round of the 2018 Class 2A playoffs.

Things to know: Swainsboro is in the semifinals for the first time since 2000, when it won the Class 3A championship with a 6-0 victory over Fitzgerald. The teams have met just twice since then, with Fitzgerald winning both. Last week, Swainsboro advanced with a 12-9 double-overtime victory over Northeast. The Tigers blocked a field goal and recovered a fumble on Northeast’s two possessions before winning it with a field goal by Daron Coleman, his first of the season. Ty Adams ran for 82 yards and a touchdown, giving him 1,719 yards for the season. Fitzgerald, the state runner-up last season, is in the semifinals for the sixth time in eight years after a 21-7 victory over previously unbeaten Putnam County. DeNorris Goodwin led the way with 25 carries for 139 yards and two TDs, putting him at 1,002 yards for the season. The Purple Hurricane ran 45 times for 249 yards. Fitzgerald gets 78% of its offense on the ground, averaging 210 yards per game rushing and 60 passing. Donald Wilcox (96 carries, 499 yards), Jakorrian Paulk (56-466) and Sylon Davis (83-303) also contribute to the running game.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Fitzgerald 18, Swainsboro 13

Callaway at Thomasville

When, where: 8 p.m. Friday, Veterans Memorial Stadium, Thomasville

Records, rankings: Callaway is 10-2, the No. 2 seed from Region 5-2A and No. 7; Thomasville is 12-1, the No. 1 seed from 1-2A and No. 2.

Last meeting: Callaway won 34-21 in the 2020 Class 2A quarterfinals.

Things to know: Callaway’s Charlie Dixon ran for 237 yards in the playoff victory against Thomasville last year, but he’s at North Carolina A&T now, one of six all-state players the Cavaliers lost to graduation. Callaway went on to win its first state title after losing in the semifinals or quarterfinals the previous four seasons. Last week, Callaway trailed South Atlanta 22-14 at halftime but scored on four consecutive possessions in the second half to win 39-22. Kier Jackson and Amarion Truitt ran for two touchdowns each, and Deshun Coleman threw a 35-yard TD pass to Cameron Tucker. Thomasville, in search of its first state title since 1988, is in the semifinals for the second time in three seasons. The Bulldogs held Rabun County’s Gunner Stockton, the No. 2 passer in state history, to 14-of-32 passing for 160 yards last week and knocked out the top-ranked Wildcats 49-24. Malik Harper ran for 112 yards and three touchdowns on 19 carries, and Ricky Fulton ran for 109 yards on 14 carries. Shannen White passed for 110 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 88 yards and two TDs.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Thomasville 29, Callaway 10

Class 3A

Appling County at Cedar Grove

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, William “Buck” Godfrey Stadium, Decatur

Records, rankings: Appling County is 12-1, the No. 2 seed from Region 1-3A and No. 6; Cedar Grove is 10-3, the No. 1 seed from 5-3A and No. 5.

Last meeting: This is the teams’ first meeting.

Things to know: Appling County is in the semifinals for the first time since 2011 and can reach its first final in a football history that dates to the 1950s. The Pirates, whose lone loss is to region rival Pierce County, beat previously unbeaten Thomson 21-7 in the quarterfinals. Appling held Thomson to a season-low 210 total yards. Jarvis Mims rushed for 102 yards. Dennis Mims went over 1,000 yards rushing on the season and had nine tackles, two tackles for losses and an interception. Taylen Crosby, who rushed for 317 yards in a second-round victory over Cherokee Bluff, did not play because of an injury and remains questionable this week. Cedar Grove, the Class 3A champion three of the past five seasons, beat Crisp County 28-6 last week. Arkansas commit Rashod Dubinion rushed for 265 yards and three touchdowns, and Crisp County was limited to 190 total yards and two field goals. Cedar Grove’s defense has two players committed to Georgia (CB Kayin Lee and DE/LB Carlton Madden) and another heavily recruited in that direction (DL Christen Miller).

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: This game is rated as a toss-up.

Carver (Atlanta) at Pierce County

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Bearville Stadium, Blackshear

Records, rankings: Carver is 10-2, the No. 2 seed from Region 5-3A and No. 8; Pierce County is 11-2, the No. 1 seed from 1-3A and No. 3.

Last meeting: Pierce County won 51-18 in the 2020 Class 3A quarterfinals.

Things to know: The 2020 quarterfinal between these two was settled by halftime as Pierce County took a 30-6 lead. Carver was playing without injured star RB Jarveous Brown. He has run for 1,490 yards this season and is joined now by transfer Quintavious Lockett (1,258 rushing yards) to form one of the state’s most explosive backfields. The Panthers have put up 414 yards rushing per game in three playoff games. Loading the box to stop Brown and Lockett also has consequences. Bryce Bowens was 6-of-10 passing for 255 yards and three touchdowns in the 46-14 victory over Burke County last week. Pierce County, the reigning state champion, has seven shutouts but beat Peach County 35-30 in a rare high-scoring affair in the quarterfinals. QB D.J. Bell, who takes direct snaps and rarely passes, rushed for 256 yards and five touchdowns on 45 carries. He’s rushed for 1,636 yards and 21 touchdowns in only eight games and surpassed 250 yards in four straight games, all against playoff teams. This is Pierce County’s third semifinal in four years. The senior class is 48-5 overall, 12-2 in the playoffs. Carver is seeking its first state final since 1967.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Pierce County 21, Carver 14

Class 4A

Cedartown at Carver (Columbus)

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium, Columbus

Records, rankings: Cedartown is 11-1, the No. 1 seed from Region 7-4A and No. 4; Carver is 12-1, the No. 1 seed from 2-4A and No. 3.

Last meeting: This is the teams’ first meeting.

Things to know: Cedartown is in the semifinals for the first time since 2001 after a 39-25 victory over Perry last week. Cedartown trailed 18-17 early in the third quarter but outscored Perry 22-7 the rest of the way. C.J. Washington (committed to Georgia) ran for a season-high 204 yards and three touchdowns on 26 carries and had a touchdown receiving. Washington (914 yards rushing for the season) and Harlem Diamond (1,075) have combined for almost 2,000 yards. Diamond had 56 yards and a TD last week. The Bulldogs finished with 334 rushing yards, slightly above their season average of 329.3. Carver reached the semifinals five times, and won a state title, from 2006 to 2011, but this is the Tigers’ first trip back to the final four since then. Carver defeated Dougherty 16-14 last week. Jaiden Credle rushed for 137 yards and both of his team’s touchdowns, including the game-winner on a 4-yard run with 8:01 remaining in the third quarter. Credle has 1,874 yards rushing for the season. Jamari Riley added a season-high 101 yards rushing, as the Tigers finished with 319 yards on 46 carries.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Cedartown 22, Carver 20

North Oconee at Benedictine

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Memorial Stadium, Savannah

Records, rankings: North Oconee is 10-3, the No. 1 seed from Region 8-4A and No. 5; Benedictine is 11-2, the No. 1 seed from 3-4A and No. 2.

Last meeting: Benedictine won 48-17 on Sept. 10.

Things to know: Benedictine was 0-2 and North Oconee was 1-2 coming into the teams’ early September meeting, which Benedictine won with a 34-point second half. Neither team has lost since. Justin Thomas had 214 yards rushing, 77 yards receiving and three touchdowns in that game. The Georgia baseball commit had 205 yards on 21 touches in a 24-21 victory against top-ranked and defending champion Marist last week that put the Cadets in the semifinals for the fifth time in nine seasons. Holden Geriner (committed to Auburn) was 10-of-13 passing for 227 yards and three touchdowns against Marist and has 2,765 yards and 29 TDs for the season. Benedictine is two wins away from its third state championship in eight seasons. North Oconee, which opened in 2004, is in the semifinals for the first time in school history after a 29-24 quarterfinal win over Bainbridge. North Oconee trailed 17-15 in the third quarter but got rushing touchdowns from Max Wilson and Khalil Barnes and then held on. Barnes and Dominic Elder had first-quarter touchdown runs. Jack Fabris and Brett Biga had interceptions.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Benedictine 34, North Oconee 17

Class 5A

Warner Robins at Creekside

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Banneker High School, College Park

Records, rankings: Warner Robins is 12-1, the No. 2 seed from Region 1-5A and No. 4; Creekside is 11-2, the No. 2 seed from 3-5A and No. 5.

Last meeting: Warner Robins won 34-21 in the second round of the 2004 Class 4A playoffs.

Things to know: Warner Robins, the defending Class 5A champion, is a victory away from its fifth consecutive finals appearance. The Demons beat Jones County 49-21 in the quarterfinals with 491 yards rushing and a season-low 46 passing yards. JaFredrick Perry rushed for 291 yards and five touchdowns on just 14 carries. Chaz Sturn rushed for 172 yards and one touchdown on 15 carries. Malcolm Brown, the Demons’ leading rusher with 1,332 yards, hasn’t played the past two games. Creekside, a defensive-minded team, beat Whitewater 20-13 while allowing only 138 total yards and seven first downs. Nyqua Lett was 10-of-15 passing for 106 yards. Khary Morrow rushed for 96 yards on 21 carries. Creekside is trying to reach the finals for the first time since its 2013 state championship team. Creekside’s average score is 34-12 against a schedule that includes seven top-10 opponents, two from higher classes. That includes a victory over Class 7A semifinalist Grayson. Warner Robins’ average score is 49-19 while playing six top-10 opponents, three from higher classes.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Warner Robins 28, Creekside 21

Blessed Trinity at Calhoun

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Phil Reeve Stadium, Calhoun

Records, rankings: Blessed Trinity is 9-4, the No. 3 seed from Region 7-5A and No. 9; Calhoun is 11-2, the No. 2 seed from 7-5A and No. 6.

Last meeting: Calhoun won 32-27 on Oct. 8.

Things to know: In the region game between these two in the regular season, Calhoun QB Christian Lewis was 13-of-16 passing for 234 yards. Gage Leonard had 117 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns on 15 touches. Cole Speer, a two-way starter and Region 7-5A’s player of the year, had six receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown. Calhoun never trailed. Blessed Trinity RB Justice Haynes rushed for 224 yards and five touchdowns on 21 carries in defeat. He ran for 236 yards and four touchdowns last week in a 49-7 victory over Villa Rica. He has rushed for 2,200 yards in 11 games, having missed two early in the season. Blessed Trinity is the lesser balanced team, averaging less than 100 yards passing per game. Calhoun and Blessed Trinity have won three state titles each since 2011, all in lower classifications, with Calhoun winning in 2011, 2014 and 2017 and Blessed Trinity in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Calhoun 29, Blessed Trinity 19

Class 6A

Dacula at Hughes

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Panther Stadium, Fairburn

Records, rankings: Dacula is 9-4, the No. 2 seed from Region 8-6A and unranked; Hughes is 12-1, the No 1 seed from 4-6A and No. 3.

Last meeting: This is the teams’ first meeting.

Things to know: Both teams are seeking their first appearance in the state finals. Dacula is in the semifinals for the third time in four seasons and sixth time overall. Hughes is in the semifinals for the first time since the program began in 2009. Dacula is the only unranked team still alive in 6A after a 35-0 victory over Johns Creek, which was the last remaining No. 4 seed. The Falcons scored all of their points in the game’s first 16 minutes. Kyle Efford, a three-star linebacker prospect committed to Georgia Tech, ran for three touchdowns and had an interception to set up another score. Will Green recovered a blocked punt in the end zone. Hughes has won 12 consecutive games since a 7-6 loss to Newton in the opener. The 12 wins are a school record. The Panthers defeated Northside of Warner Robins 48-7 last week behind four rushing TDs by Antonio Martin, who is committed to Georgia Tech. Martin ran for 95 yards on 19 carries, giving him 786 yards for the season. Prentiss Noland passed for 171 yards and a touchdown, and Jakarri Martin scored on a 44-yard fumble return. Michael Collins recorded 16 total tackles.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Hughes 25, Dacula 14

Carrollton at Buford

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Tom Riden Stadium, Buford

Records, rankings: Carrollton is 12-1, the No. 2 seed from Region 5-6A and No. 7; Buford is 12-1, the No 1 seed from 8-6A and No. 1.

Last meeting: Buford won 24-21 in the 2019 Class 5A quarterfinals.

Things to know: Carrollton ended a five-year losing streak in quarterfinal games with a 37-32 win over Westlake that put the Trojans in the semifinals for the first time since 2013. Bryce Hicks scored the winning touchdown on a 33-yard pass from M.J. Morris with 41 seconds left. Hicks rushed for 141 yards (giving him 839 for the season) and three touchdowns. Morris (committed to N.C. State) also threw a touchdown pass to himself, catching a ball that was deflected at the line of scrimmage and running 25 yards for the score. Carrollton led 24-0 in the third quarter but was outscored 32-7 over the next 16 minutes. Carrollton averages 42.2 points per game but will be facing a Buford defense that allows just 6.5. The Wolves recorded their fifth shutout of the season when they beat No. 2 Lee County 27-0 last week. Ashton Daniels (committed to Stanford) passed for 174 yards and a touchdown and scored on an 11-yard run. Victor Venn (Colorado) ran for 195 yards. Buford, a two-time defending state champion, is in the semifinals for the 19th time in 22 seasons.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Buford 34, Carrollton 12

Class 7A

Walton at Milton

When, where: 8 p.m. Friday, Eagles’ Nest, Milton

Records, rankings: Walton is 9-3, the No. 3 seed from Region 3-7A and No. 9; Milton is 12-1, the No 1 seed from 5-7A and No. 3.

Last meeting: Walton won 24-9 in 2015.

Things to know: Walton is in the semifinals for the first time since its Class 5A runner-up finish in 2011. Milton is in for the first time since winning the Class 7A title in 2018. Walton advanced in the second round with a 52-35 victory over No. 7 Brookwood, the fourth top-10 opponent the Raiders have beaten, the second in the playoffs, both on the road. Sophomore QB Jeremy Hecklinski was 14-of-24 passing for 268 yards. Rawson MacNeill had five receptions for 99 yards. Sutton Smith, a Memphis-committed running back, had 180 all-purpose yards on 16 touches. His 64-yard TD reception midway in the third quarter gave Walton a 42-14 lead. Milton had a tougher time with fourth-ranked Mill Creek, winning 36-27. It was a two-point game until Jordan McDonald’s 1-yard run with 3:25 left. Devin Farrell was held to 3-for-9 passing for 118 yards, but McDonald rushed for 201 yards on 21 carries. McDonald, who is committed to Central Florida, rushed for 248 yards the previous week against Marietta. Milton’s average score is 42-20. Walton’s is 37-26.

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Milton 30, Walton 24

Grayson at Collins Hill

When, where: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Fahring Field, Suwanee

Records, rankings: Grayson is 10-3, the No. 2 seed from Region 4-7A and unranked; Collins Hill is 13-0, the No 1 seed from 8-7A and No. 1.

Last meeting: Grayson won 38-14 in the 2020 Class 7A championship game.

Things to know: After losing to Grayson twice last season, Collins Hill is heavily favored this time. The Eagles’ average score is 42-6. Grayson’s is 24-17. Collins Hill has beaten every opponent by 15 points or more. Collins Hill’s 49-7 victory over Lowndes last week was the most lopsided defeat that Lowndes has suffered in 40 years. Sam Horn was 27-of-32 passing for 323 yards and four touchdowns. The Missouri-committed quarterback has thrown for 3,217 yards this season. Travis Hunter, who is committed to Florida State, and Cedric Nash each had 112 yards receiving, and Ryan Stephens rushed for 125 yards. Grayson beat 10th-ranked Roswell 24-14 in the second round. Grayson had eight sacks, and Joe Taylor rushed for 110 yards and two touchdowns. He’s rushed for 966 yards this season. Grayson averages only 80.7 yards passing per game. Grayson has beaten three region champions (Archer, McEachern, Denmark), but Roswell represented Grayson’s first victory over a top-10 opponent. Grayson last beat a No. 1 team in 2019 (Marietta).

Maxwell Ratings’ projected score: Collins Hill 32, Grayson 0

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