Land of Lakes, Mountains, Scenic Beauty and Friendly People North Georgia News Hometown Newspaper of Blairsville, Suches and Union County www.nganews.com 75¢ Legal Organ of Union County Your Hometown Newspaper Since 1909 Wednesday, September 2, 2026 ESPLOST support, discussion highlight meeting By Todd Forrest local 1% tax, thanked the LQ 1RYHPEHU WKLQJV IRU North Georgia News ERDUGIRULWVOHDGHUVKLSSUDLVHG our school system could Staff Writer the schools in general or a fundamentally change.” T h e U n i o n C o u n t y FRPELQDWLRQRIDOOWKUHH Backing up Akins, Hill School Board’s August meeting A t t h e c o n c l u s i o n pointed to annual recurring IHDWXUHG ÀYH SXEOLF VSHDNHUV RI WKH SXEOLF FRPPHQWV technology costs, along with the praising the school system DOO ILYH ERDUG PHPEHUV DQG post-pandemic increase in the and supporting ESPLOST Superintendent John Hill spoke FRVWRIEXVHVDQGÁHHWYHKLFOHV DKHDG RI WKH 1RYHPEHU YRWH DERXW (63/267 DQG VRPH As an example, Hill said a IROORZHGEERDUGGLVFXVVLRQV RI WKH UHDVRQV EHKLQG SXWWLQJ EDVLFEDUHERQHVPDLQWHQDQFH of the education sales tax and D FRQWLQXDWLRQ EDFN EHIRUH truck has increased in price DSSURYDORIDFWLRQLWHPVRQODVW YRWHUV from $21,000 to $43,000 since Thursday’s agenda. %RDUG 0HPEHU -DQQD 2019. ' X U L Q J W K H S X E O L F Akins pointed out that the He added that statecomment period, residents WD[ KDV EHHQ LQ HIIHFW VLQFH mandated curriculum items 0LFNH &XPPLQJV -DFRE VR VXGGHQO UHPRYLQJ ZLOODOVRVHHDMXPSLQFRVWRYHU Grizzle, Scotty Jarrard, Jason WKDW VRXUFH RI UHYHQXH ZRXOG the coming years. .DUQHVDQG0DWWKHZ0DVKEXUQ FUHDWH VLJQLÀFDQW FKDOOHQJHV “ T h e s e ( c u r r i c u l u m Union County Schools Superintendent John Hill giving his monthly update to members of HLWKHU YRLFHG VXSSRUW IRU WKH “Depending on the outcome See ESPLOST, Page 2A the Board of Education at their regular meeting Aug. 27. Photo by Todd Forrest Annual Heritage Festival Sons of the Pioneers to to showcase local history return in Oct. 25 concert By Brittany Holbrooks North Georgia News Staff Writer The legendary Western music group Sons of the Pioneers will return to the North Georgia Mountains to SHUIRUP DQRWKHU ORFDO EHQHÀW concert at the Union County Fine Arts Center on Sunday, Oct. 25. And early ticket sales KDYHDOUHDGSURYHQSURPLVLQJ IRUWKHEDQGWKDWURVHWRIDPH and continues to experience DFFODLPZLWKEHORYHG:HVWHUQ classics like “Cool Water,” ´7XPEOLQJ7XPEOHZHHGVµDQG many more. In fact, Joseph “Joe” Be sure to attend the Mountain Heritage Festival in Downtown Blairsville this weekend! Rosa of local Scouting America Photo by Lowell Nicholson/2025 Troop 101 said that online WLFNHWV KDYH EHHQ VHOOLQJ DW D By Brittany Holbrooks return to the “roots” of the handmade crafts or local-made higher rate than this time last North Georgia News IHVWLYDO KRVWHG DQQXDOO E food. HDU OHDGLQJ KLP WR EHOLHYH Staff Writer the Union County Historical ´(YHUWKLQJLVPDGHE WKDW D IXOO KRXVH LV SRVVLEOH The Mountain Heritage Society, with greater emphasis hand here in Union, Towns so people should go ahead and )HVWLYDO LV VHW WR UHWXUQ WKLV on local culture and tradition DQG )DQQLQ FRXQWLHV µ VDLG secure their tickets now. /D E R U ' D Z HHNHQG RQ EURXJKW LQWR WKH FUDIWV DQG Historical Society President See Sons of the Pioneers, Page 2A The Sons of the Pioneers Saturday, Sept. 5, and Sunday, DFWLYLWLHV WKDW IDPLOLHV HQMR Mike Cook, adding that most Sept. 6, at the 1906 Grapelle HYHUHDU IRRG YHQGRUV ZLOO EH LQ WKH Butt Mock House and Mountain $OZDVDSRSXODUIHVWLYDO Mock House parking lot, Life Museum just off the square IHDWXUHDERXWYHQGRUVZLOO although some samples of LQ'RZQWRZQ%ODLUVYLOOH EH VLWXDWHG RQ WKH IURQW ODZQ traditional Appalachian fare ‘Squirrel Man’ honored And this year marks a with many focusing on either See Heritage Festival, Page 3A for love of wildlife, people November election called By Brittany Holbrooks North Georgia News way from New Hampshire to RIILFLDWH WKH VHUYLFH EXW DV for Towns County Sheriff Staff Writer KH UHYHDOHG ZKHQ LQWURGXFLQJ 6 W H S K H Q ´ 6 W H Y H µ himself to attendees, he and Johnson, known locally as Johnson grew up together in ´7KH 6TXLUUHO 0DQµ ORYHG Atlanta. By Shawn Jarrard all creatures great and small, Shipman shared some North Georgia News and on Monday, Aug. 24, stories of Johnson in his youth, editor@nganews.com FRPPXQLWPHPEHUVFDPHRXW recounting how he used to play H I AWA S S E E – A LQIRUFHWRVKRZWKHLUORYHIRUD WKHEDQMR<HDUVODWHU-RKQVRQ 6SHFLDO(OHFWLRQIRUWKH2IÀFH man who spent years imparting kept in touch with Shipman, of Towns County Sheriff will a respect for the natural world and the pair playfully compared EH KHOG RQ 7XHVGD 1RY to people of all ages. ZHDWKHU DQG QHZV RYHU WKH to fill the unexpired term of Johnson, 77, passed away phone. former sheriff Ken Henderson, on Aug. 18 at New Horizons The floor opened with qualifying for sheriff /DQLHU 3DUN LQ *DLQHVYLOOH then for further comments, candidates set to run Tuesday, following injuries he sustained allowing others to share their Sept. 8, through Thursday, in a car accident earlier this memories of Johnson. The Sept. 10. year. general consensus was that Special qualifying will People who knew him -RKQVRQ WUXO XQLTXH LQ ERWK Steve Johnson take place at the Towns County from Meeks Park – where SHUVRQDOLWDQGGULYHWRFDUHIRU “The Squirrel Man” Elections Office located at KH EHIULHQGHG ZLOGOLIH DQG the creatures around him, was a /DNHYLHZ &LUFOH QH[W WR educated others for years – and SKHQRPHQDOLQGLYLGXDO the 1990s. the courthouse in Hiawassee, EHRQGJDWKHUHGDW+ROO+LOO Kat Crow, for example, “We need people that starting at 9 a.m. on Sept. 8 and Veterans Cemetery to lay him ERQGHG ZLWK -RKQVRQ RYHU FDUH DERXW WKH HQYLURQPHQW ending at 5 p.m. on Sept. 10. to rest, relating fond memories HFRORJ DQG FRQVHUYDWLRQ WKDW FDUH DERXW QDWXUH DQG The qualifying fee The Towns County Board of Elections deliberated for hours DQGÀQGLQJFRPIRUWLQVFULSWXUH Crow referred to him as a ZDQWWRSUHVHUYHLWDQG,WKLQN for sheriff is $1,927.66, and over two emergency called meetings last week to determine that promised Johnson was at “kindred spirit,” and Johnson he instilled that in so many candidate qualifying packets how best to call a sheriff election. Pictured (L-R): Board peace with the Lord. ZDVWKHÀUVWSHUVRQVKHJRWWR children,” Crow said. “I’m VKRXOGEHDYDLODEOHIRUSLFNXS Members Anna Denton and Sheila McDevitt. 5 H Y H U H Q G ( U Q H V W NQRZ LQ %ODLUVYLOOH ZKHQ VKH hoping as they grow up, then See Towns County Sheriff, Page 3A Photo by Shawn Jarrard 6KLSPDQ WUDYHOHG DOO WKH EHJDQWRYLVLWWKHPRXQWDLQVLQ See Squirrel Man, Page 6A Vol. 117 No. 37 Newspapers Will Be a Day Late Next Week Due to Labor Day Arrests - 3B .GICNU$ Church - 5B Obits - 6B Union General Health Fair All Set for Sept. 19 See Page 8A %NCUUKČGFU$ Sports - 10A Opinion - 4A Five-Member Commission Town Hall Sept. 22 See Page 3B Need a mortgage? Let our Dream Team help you make home ownership a reality. Kitty Mauzy Kim Walker 706-439-2185 706-439-2164 NMLS #512515 © 2025 United Community Bank | NMLS #421841 | ucbi.com/mortgage NMLS #1205994
Page 2A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 $ CASH 4 $ ESPLOST...from Page 1A FDQQRWDOZDVSURYLGHDQH[DFW EHEXLOW6RZHKDGWRPDNHD WKH ERDUG KDG EHHQ ORFNHG FRVW DQG WLPHWDEOH IRU HYHU GHFLVLRQ FDQZHJHWDIHZPRUH into a specific project list $ $ SURMHFWLQDGYDQFH years out of the HVAC and deal DQG WLPHWDEOH LW ZRXOG KDYH $ Antique $ LWHPV DUH QRW RSWLRQDOµ KH up the difference through other ´,WWDNHVPRQHWRÀJXUH ZLWKLWRQDIXWXUH(63/267" KDG OHVV IOH[LELOLW WR GHDO $ $ Trucks & Cars $$ said. “This is not our teachers means, potentially including out how much money we can And we’re here now.” ZLWK WKH DGGLWLRQDO ÀHOGKRXVH coming to us saying, ‘We a significant property tax VSHQGµKHVDLG´:KHQ,ÀUVW Akins also cited the expenditures. $ $ Tractors! $ $ would like this.’ This is the increase. JRW RQWKHERDUG WKHUHZHUH YLVLWRUV ILHOGKRXVH DW WKH $PRQJ WKH DSSURYHG Not Running & Rusted $ $ Department of Education, %RDUG 0HPEHU 3DWULFN FRQYHUVDWLRQVDERXWWKH+9$& IRRWEDOOVWDGLXPZKLFKDWRQH action items that night were $ Pre-1950’s $ through legislation, mandating :KLWHEURXJKWXSWKHSRVVLELOLW system in the middle school, point came in twice as much as D EDQNLQJ VHUYLFHV DZDUG WR $ Labosco’s at the $ we purchase this curriculum.” of a 50% increase in property and we thought it was going initially projected. That forced SouthState Bank for Fiscal $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ %RDUG 0HPEHU -DVRQ taxes without ESPLOST. WREHDPLOOLRQGROODUVFKHDSHU the system to take a different <HDU PHPRUDQGXPV RI $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ $ 0F&DUWHU DGGHG WKDW LI YRWHUV 0 F & D U W H U U H V S R Q G H G E than what it actually turned approach, including separating understanding and contracts $ 706-745-0097 $ do not pass the ESPLOST, local contrasting the two taxes. RXWWREH from the original architect, LQYROYLQJ QXUVLQJ VWXGHQWV CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! WD[SDHUVZRXOGKDYHWRPDNH “Which would you rather ´'HFLVLRQV KDG WR EH KLULQJ DQRWKHU DQG EULQJLQJ +HDG6WDUWDQGVHFXULWXSGDWHV KDYH" , NQRZ ZKDW , ZRXOG PDGHDWWKDWSRLQWEHFDXVHZH WKHSURMHFWEDFNZLWKLQEXGJHW WKH )< &7$( %XGJHW WKH UDWKHU KDYHµ 0F&DUWHU VDLG had an elementary school to McCarter noted that if )<)LQDO%XGJHW DQGPRUH Healthy Minds for Better Lives, Inc. “Property tax or a sales tax, The Addiction of Pornography What’s a sure way to destroy your family? Pornography. It is both adultery which is a penny, and you won’t QRWLFHLW,W·VEHHQWKHUHVLQFH 1998.” Sons of the Pioneers ...from Page 1A and fornication. It is unfaithfulness to your spouse, full of betrayal and lies, B o a r d C h a i r To n y As a lifelong Sons fan scouts to a special trip. FDQ EH SXUFKDVHG RQOLQH MXVW and hurts your children. It also endorses and supports an industry that harms Hunter similarly aimed to keep and one of the organizers who “We’re going to take Google the ticketing platform both men and women. It is an addiction and sin against your own body, WKLQJVLQSHUVSHFWLYH ´:HDUH makes the annual concert them down to the Gulf and ZLWK WKH EDQG QDPH ´=HII and it is difficult to overcome, but victory and healing can come with EOHVVHG LQ WKLV QDWLRQ WR NHHS SRVVLEOH-RKQ&RFKUDQRI-RKQ do a camp down in a national Sons of the Pioneers,” and the transformation of the heart and mind by Jesus Christ. Don’t try to overcome alone. Not only will Jesus forgive your sin and make beauty out of your ashes, but the majority of what we earn, Cochran and the Cowhands said SUHVHUYHµ5RVDH[SODLQHG´ ,W FRQFHUW ZLOO EH WKH WRS UHVXOW He can also heal and restore your broken, hurting family and bring joy out of the and we’re not asking for a WKDWZKLOHEULQJLQJWKH6RQVWR JLYHV WKHPQHZOLIHH[SHULHQFH *HQHUDODGPLVVLRQWLFNHWVKDYH sorrow. There are Christian support groups that can help as well. There is hope! tremendous amount.” town is costing more this year, and gets them out of their lowered this year to $20, and healthymindsamerica.wixsite.com/healthy-minds YLHZHG Sales taxes are often LQWHUHVWLQVSRQVRUVKLSVLQERWK FRPIRUW ]RQHV RI %ODLUVYLOOH UHVHUYHGVHDWLQJLV DV D IDLUHU IRUP RI Towns and Union counties has and the surrounding area.” People can also find taxation, as more people get EHHQKLJK Along with great music, general admission tickets for WKH FKDQFH WR FRQWULEXWH DQG “So far, we’re ahead of JXHVWVZLOOEHDEOHWRSDUWLFLSDWH VDOH ORFDOO DW <RXQJ +DUULV Hill cited an estimate from the game,” Cochran proudly in a silent auction for a gift Pharmacy, Union County WKH %ODLUVYLOOH8QLRQ &RXQW reported. “I think we’re going package from Brasstown Historical Society, Pat’s &KDPEHU RI &RPPHUFH WKDW WRKDYHWKHIXQGVWRSDDOOWKH Pharmacy Drug & Gun, though Hallmark, Melissa’s Custom DERXW RI WKH (63/267 H[SHQVHV LQFOXGLQJ WKH EDQG Cochran said no firearms or Cakes, and North Georgia UHYHQXHJHQHUDWHGLQWKHFRXQW By doing that, I think the ticket DPPXQLWLRQ ZLOO EH LQFOXGHG Family Medicine. comes from non-residents. sales will all go as properly to $QG WKHUH LV D SRVVLELOLW IRU Rosa is planning on +XQWHU FRQWLQXHG E the kids.” a second silent auction, with EULQJLQJ VRPH RI WKH VFRXWV encouraging Union County A l l p r o c e e d s f r o m SODQVVWLOOEHLQJÀQDOL]HG to G & G Bakery and Cafe in YRWHUV WR YLHZ WKH WD[ DV ticket sales going directly to Speaking of the great %ODLUVYLOOH WR VHOO WLFNHWV WRR DQ RSSRUWXQLW WR LQYHVW LQ the scouts is good news for PXVLF E WKH 6RQV RI WKH DQGSRVVLEODOVRWRWKH8QLRQ students now to set them up for 7URRSZKLFKQXPEHUV 3LRQHHUV WZR QHZ PHPEHUV County Farmers Market. Check long-term success. youngsters. For years, money KDYHMRLQHGWKHWDOHQWHGOLQHXS DQGFDVKDUHERWKDFFHSWHGIRU ´,I WKH VWXGHQWV FRPH UDLVHGE6RQVRIWKH3LRQHHUV· Trustin Baker is handling in-person ticket purchases. out of our system and don’t concerts went to Union County OHDG ÀGGOH KDYLQJ JRWWHQ KLV KDYH D GLUHFWLRQ , NQRZ WKH )HUVW 5HDGHUV EXW ODVW HDU VWDUW SODLQJ ÀGGOH DQG EDQMR Sons of Confederate direction they usually go,” marked the start of the local IRU KLV IDPLO·V JRVSHO EDQG +XQWHUVDLG´6RZHFDQLQYHVW Scouting America partnership. He has appeared on “America’s Veterans Meeting LQWKHPQRZRUZHZLOOLQYHVW Proceeds supplement Got Talent” and won the Grand 'DYLG : 3DQH &DPS in them later.” VFRXW LQLWLDWLYHV ZKHWKHU LW Master Fiddler Championship 1633, Sons of Confederate $GGLWLRQDOO WKH ERDUG EH SDLQJ IRU FDPSLQJ RU in 2018 at the young age of 19. Veterans meets the second addressed criticism that it was uniforms that some kids may Trent Prewitt plays 7KXUVGDRIHYHUPRQWKDW not releasing a detailed list of not otherwise get to enjoy, UKWKP JXLWDU DQG SURYLGHV 30DWWKH'DYHQSRUW9HWHUDQV capital projects showcasing or replacing and repairing EDULWRQHYRFDOV+HZRQ0DOH Building, across the 4-lane how ESPLOST funds would supplies. For example, last 9RFDOLVWRIWKH<HDUDWWKH from Longhorn Steakhouse in EH VSHQW RYHU ILYH HDUV RI HDU ·V IXQGV UHIXUELVKHG Who’s Hoo Country Music %ODLUVYLOOH7KHSXEOLFLVZHO- collections if the renewal DOO WKHLU FDQRHV DQG ERXJKW $ZDUGVZKHUHKLVGHEXWDOEXP come to attend. referendum passes. uniforms for children who ZDVQDPHG$OEXPRIWKH<HDU %RDUG 0HPEHU -XOLD couldn’t afford them. Barnett pointed out that a His single, “Redneck Royalty,” “The money goes toward topped E.A.C.M. charts, and $ CASH 4 $ project list is already included the kids and anything that has 3UHZLWW FDUULHV DQ H[WHQVLYH $ $ LQ WKH SXEOLVKHG UHIHUHQGXP to do with the troop for the kids knowledge and passion of $ $ GOLD $ $ language, which is true, and ²JLYLQJHYHURQHRIWKHPWKH EOXHJUDVVDQGFRXQWUPXVLF $ Jewelry $ WKH VWDWH JHQHUDOO SURYLGHV HTXDORSSRUWXQLWWREHDSDUW And Cochran, an $ $ school systems with a certain RI HYHU HYHQW WKDW ZH GRµ HVWDEOLVKHG :HVWHUQ PXVLFLDQ $ KLPVHOI RI <RXQJ +DUULV $ SILVER $ $ GHJUHHRIÁH[LELOLWLQSURMHFW said Rosa. SULRULWL]DWLRQJLYHQWKDWQRRQH 1H[WHDU·VSURMHFWVWREH EHOLHYHVWKDWWKHJURXSVRXQGV $ Jewelry $ can see the future. IXQGHG E WKLV HDU·V FRQFHUW ´DV JRRG RU HYHQ EHWWHUµ WKDQ $$ Labosco’s at the $ $ 0F&DUWHUEURXJKWXSMXVW include replacing paddles and WKHGLGXSRQWKH6RQV·GHEXW $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ RQHRIWKHQHHGHGLPSURYHPHQWV OLIHSUHVHUYHUVDQGVRPHPRQH more than 90 years ago. 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ at the middle school as an may go toward scholarships. %RWK UHVHUYHG VHDWLQJ $ 706-745-0097 $ H[DPSOH RI ZK WKH ERDUG Rosa would also like to treat the and general admission tickets CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! 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DECKS, BASEMENTS www.sesprayfoam.com 411 Plott Town Rd., Young Harris, GA Must present this ad at time of purchase FORESTRY MULCHING Tyler Silverson 706-851-3524 391 BLUE RIDGE HWY ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED Let’s Talk Trash BRENT’S HANDYMAN PLACE YOUR SERVICES AD HERE! New Homes Õ Additions Advertise with other Garages Õ Decks Licensed Insured Wood Finish & Repair Local Business here in Now offering new septic system installs ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Tongue & Groove ÕÕÕÕÕÕ the Blairsville area! Flooring and Walls Lot Clearing, Gravel Driveways, House Sites, Weekly Pickup Tile Repair and Showers Contact Sky Long Arm Mowing, Retaining Walls, Underbrushing, Erosion Control, Water Management Check us Drywall Repair and Flooring 706-745-6343 or 706-897-4065 out on tonysgarbage.com Acoustic Ceilings 706-897-6066 CALL 706-400-0316 ngnews@nganews.com
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3A Heritage Festival ...from Page 1A at the Historical Society. ´:KHQ,JLYHWRXUVDWWKH Mock House and the children BLAIRSVILLE 38 BACKYARD LANE, HWY. 515, NEXT TO THE BOWLING ALLEY WWW.BLAIRSVILLECINEMA.COM ZLOOEHDYDLODEOHDWWKH3DQH corn husk dolls, panning for KRZ WR EHDW HJJV ZLWK DQ come in, I try to make it as &DELQ gold and more. ROGIDVKLRQHG HJJEHDWHU LQWHUDFWLYHDVSRVVLEOHEHFDXVH CINEMA 706-745-1000 Movies and/or show times are subject to change The children’s area will “We’re going to let rolling out dough and cutting that’s how kids really learn,” EH PRYHG EHKLQG WKH 0RFN the kids experience that,” ELVFXLWVµ Jones said. “We want to go FRIDAY, SEPT. 4 - THURSDAY, SEPT. 10 +RXVHDQGZLOOIHDWXUHDFWLYLWLHV said Society Secretary Jayne As a former educator, EDFNWRRXUURRWVWRWUXOPDNH MUTINY Starring Jason Statham R THE DOG STARS R that mountain folk used to do -RQHV ´ :H·OO KDYH D WDEOH -RQHVNQRZVWKHYDOXHLQKDQGV LWKHULWDJH UHODWHG µ FRI & SAT: 11:00, 7:10 FRI, SAT & SUN: 11:00, 1:10, 3:50, 6:50 for practicality and fun, like with old-fashioned kitchen on learning and has found / L Y H K L V W R U L F D O SUN: 11:00, 7:10 MON - WED: 1:00, 3:50, 6:40 THUR: 1:00, 3:40, 6:40 XVLQJ D ZDVKERDUG DQG EDVLQ XWHQVLOV KRZWRJUDWHDFDUURW VXFFHVV E HPSORLQJ VLPLODU demonstrations will also MON - WED: 1:00, 7:00 for cleaning clothes, making ZLWK DQ ROGIDVKLRQHG JUDWHU VWUDWHJLHVLQKHUYROXQWHHUUROH EH ORFDWHG DURXQG WKH EDFN THUR: 7:00 THE RIVALS OF AMZIAH KING R of the property, including a Starring Matthew McConaughey & Kurt Russell COYOTE VS. ACME PG Towns County Sheriff EODFNVPLWKDQGZKLWWOHU FRI, SAT & SUN: 1:20, 4:10 MON - WED: 1:00, 3:15 • THUR: 1:00 ...from Page 1A 1HZ WKLV HDU ZLOO EH Starring Will Forte & John Cena the addition of a traditional FRI, SAT & SUN: 11:00, 1:40, 4:00, 7:00 MON - WED: 3:50, 6:50 PRACTICAL MAGIC 2 PG13 EWKHHQGRIWKLVZHHN election officials due to the FRXUVH IRU WZR PDLQ UHDVRQV “mountain man” in the form of THUR: 4:40 Starring Sandra Bullock & Nicole Kidman THURS, SEPTEMBER 10TH: 2:00, 4:00, 6:50 Henderson resigned from extraordinary circumstances ERDUG PHPEHUV KDG VWDUWHG Ken Jones. Along with selling office on Aug. 24 as part of surrounding the situation. K H D U L Q J S X E O L F I H H G E D F N ERZOV RI FRUQEUHDG DQG FKLOL a plea agreement regarding 'XULQJ GHOLEHUDWLRQV desiring a quicker election IRU-RQHVZLOOWHOODGYHQWXUH two criminal cases, causing WKH ERDUG H[SUHVVHG LWV LQWHQW SURFHVVDQGWKHDOVRUHFHLYHG VWRULHVDERXWWKHJUHDWRXWGRRUV D YDFDQF LQ WKH SRVLWLRQ DQG WRSURYLGHYRWHUVWKHFKDQFHWR additional guidance from the EHVLGHDFDPSÀUH setting up the need to elect a new elect their next sheriff as soon 6HFUHWDURI6WDWH·V2IÀFHWKDW In the Mock House sheriff to complete the two-plus DV SRVVLEOH HVSHFLDOO JLYHQ FODULÀHGWKHLURSWLRQV $QQH[ VSLQQHUV ZLOO EH years remaining in his term. WKH XQFHUWDLQW DQG QHJDWLYH In a follow-up phone t e a c h i n g g u e s t s h o w t o The Elections Board held community impacts of the call that took place during the FDUG DQG ZHDYH DQG WKHUH emergency meetings on Aug. SURORQJHGOHJDOLVVXHVWKDWKDYH Aug. 27 emergency meeting, ZLOO EH D FRXSOH RI ZRPHQ 26 and Aug. 27 to address plagued the office of sheriff WKHVWDWHUHYLVHGLWVJXLGDQFHWR demonstrating how to quilt. Authorized Dealer this need, ultimately deciding since last year. say that either election option Appalachia’s oldest residents to hold a Special Election Calling a single election ZDV DFFHSWDEOH SDUWLFXODUO ZLOO DOVR EH KRQRUHG ZLWK D alongside the statewide General ZRXOGKDYHFHUWDLQOEHHQWKH EHFDXVH WKH LQWHULP VKHULII GLVSOD RI 1DWLYH $PHULFDQ (OHFWLRQWKLV1RYHPEHU VZLIWHVWURXWHEXWLQUHYLHZLQJ was appointed most recently artifacts. 6R ZKHQ YRWHUV KHDG WKH VWDWH ODZV WKDW JRYHUQ E7RZQV&RXQW3UREDWHQRW :KLOHWKH&ROOLQV&DELQ to the polls this fall, they will special elections and primaries, WKHJRYHUQRU has not completed construction, UHFHLYH D VLQJOH EDOORW WKDW the statutes weren’t exactly $ I W H U U H F H L Y L Q J W K H WKH EXLOGLQJ QRZ KDV VWHSV contains races for federal clear on the matter at hand. updated guidance, facilitated WKDQNV WR YROXQWHHU 0LFNH Serving the Area Since 1983 and state offices, the county Special primaries to EOHJDOFRXQVHOIURP&RXQW Cummings, and guests are S P L O S T c o n t i n u a t i o n select political party candidates $WWRUQH5REE.LNHUWKHERDUG welcome to step inside and take referendum, and candidates DUHUHTXLUHGLI´DYDFDQFRFFXUV unanimously opted to go with a tour. Out front on the porch for Towns County Sheriff. LQ D SDUWLVDQ RIÀFH WR ZKLFK the quicker election process. ZLOO EH 5-·V )LQH &LJDUV DQG Hours: 9-5 Closed Wed. & Sun. 7KH 1RY 6SHFLDO WKH *RYHUQRU LV DXWKRUL]HG WR 3HUVWDWHODZYRWHUVDUH WKH LQVLGH ZLOO EH GHFRUDWHG Election will result in the DSSRLQWDQLQGLYLGXDOWRVHUYH DGYLVHGWKDWDOOTXDOLÀHGVKHULII with old furniture. selection of the next county until the next general election.” FDQGLGDWHV ZLOO EH OLVWHG LQ As in years past, the 2711 Blairsville Hwy., Murphy NC. 28906 VKHULII+RZHYHULIPRUHWKDQ County sheriff is such DOSKDEHWLFDORUGHURQWKHEDOORW KLVWRULF3DQH&DELQZLOODOVR two candidates qualify next DQ RIÀFH ,Q IDFW *RY %ULDQ DQG FDQGLGDWHV ZLOO KDYH WKH EHRSHQZKHUHDYROXQWHHUZLOO ZHHNWKHUHLVDSRVVLELOLWWKDW Kemp appointed the interim choice of whether to designate EH FRRNLQJ RYHU DQ RSHQ ÀUH 828.837.8611 WKH6SHFLDO(OHFWLRQZLOOKDYH sheriff after two of Henderson’s DSROLWLFDOSDUWDIÀOLDWLRQDWWKH DQGWDONLQJDERXWZKDWOLIHZDV to go to a Dec. 1 runoff should four suspensions, and last time of qualifying. 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XVH RI WKH GRQDWLRQ ER[HV ZLOO EH WKH ODWHVW UHVLGHQWV direction of holding a primary. $ G Y D Q F H L Q S H U V R Q spread around the grounds PLJKW KDYH WR ZDLW WR UHWXUQ S o , i n t h e A u g . 2 6 YRWLQJZLOOEHJLQ2FWDQG to not only help keep the an elected sheriff to the Towns HPHUJHQFPHHWLQJWKHERDUG end on Oct. 30, including +HULWDJH)HVWLYDOJRLQJVWURQJ &RXQW6KHULII·V2IÀFH decided to call a special primary 6DWXUGD YRWLQJ RQ 2FW EXW WR VXSSRUW WKH HQGHDYRUV $"#/ղ In deciding their course RQ 1RY DQG D IROORZXS DQG2FW(DUOYRWLQJKRXUV of the Historical Society in RI DFWLRQ ODVW ZHHN PHPEHUV special election in the spring ZLOOEH DPWRSP SUHVHUYLQJ WKH FRXQW·V SDVW of the Towns County Board in an effort to err on the side of $V XVXDO SROOV ZLOO EH IRUWKHEHWWHUPHQWRILWVIXWXUH of Elections & Registration FDXWLRQDQGDYRLGDQSRWHQWLDO open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. On that note, Cook wants ZHUHIDFLQJWZRRSWLRQV HLWKHU legal challenges regarding the on Election Day. 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IURPWKHGDEHIRUHUHVROYLQJ of Elections & Registration is 'HYHORSPHQW$XWKRULW8QLWHG A n d t h e c l o c k w a s instead to call a single election comprised of the following Community Bank, Vintage WLFNLQJWRGHFLGHDVWKHERDUG for sheriff to take place in PHPEHUV %RDUG &KDLU -RKQ Volt Antiques, and the Candler QHHGHG WR JLYH SURSHU QRWLFH 1RYHPEHUZLWKWKHEHOLHIWKDW Clemens, John Bennett, Anna Station. for candidates to qualify while the new direction was in the 'HQWRQ 6KHLOD 0F'HYLWW DQG The Mountain Heritage PHHWLQJ LPSHQGLQJ EDOORW EHVWLQWHUHVWRIWKHSXEOLF Charlotte Sleczkowski. Rachel )HVWLYDO ZLOO EH RSHQ IURP deadlines. Fortunately, the state 7KH ERDUG UHYLVLWHG LWV (GZDUGV VHUYHV DV (OHFWLRQV 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday KDV EHHQ ZRUNLQJ ZLWK ORFDO initial decision and changed 6XSHUYLVRUDQG&KLHI5HJLVWUDU and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on 6XQGD 3DUNLQJ LV DYDLODEOH ֢ԼԵԻ֣ԾԼԵևԷԵԻԵ downtown, and transportation United Community employees play BINGO WR WKH 0RFN +RXVH ZLOO EH ԶԻի ''/ $ 2 .. լ ԸԵԺԹԻ SURYLGHG to raise money for Goodies from the Heart KING WHERE WE TREAT YOU LIKE ROYALTY United Community Bank employees present check to “Goodies from the Heart” United Community em- WKHHYHQWZDVDJUHDWVXFFHVV -RH &RIIHH &RPSDQ *UDQployees came together for a We would like to recognize GDGG0LPP·V'LVWLOOLQJ&R IXQÀOOHG %,1*2 IXQGUDLVHU and thank the following com- /LVD%D[WHU6:%&0RUWJDJH EHQHÀWLQJ *RRGLHV IURP WKH munity partners for donating 0LNH·V 6HDIRRG 0LVV .LWW·V +HDUW D SURJUDP WKDW SURYLGHV prizes and supporting this 3ODFH 0RRQÁRZHU %RXWLTXH food for Union County students. LPSRUWDQW PLVVLRQ $J3UR 6LFLO·V 3L]]D 3DVWD 6XEV Thanks to the enthusi- 0XUSK 1& $OH[DQGHU·V 6RVHEHH /DZQ &DUH 7KH -Rasm of our team and the gen- 6WRUH &KLFN ÀO$%ODLUVYLOOH VHSKLQH%RXWLTXH DQG9LQWDJH HURVLW RI ORFDO EXVLQHVVHV 'UHVVHG LQ /X[H ([SHGLWLRQ Vault. Union Early Readers Encourages Community to Honor Dolly Parton’s Legacy Through Literacy The world mourned the passing of entertainer, philan- WKURSLVWDQGOLWHUDFDGYRFDWH Dolly Parton last week. Her death marks the end of an ex- WUDRUGLQDUHUDEXWKHUOHJDF will continue for generations WKURXJKKHUPXVLFEXVLQHVVHV community support, acting career, and, perhaps most importantly, her commitment to early childhood literacy. In 1995, Parton launched Dolly Parton’s Imagination For those looking for a YLGHG EHORZ 2QOLQH 'RQD- /LEUDULQ6HYLHU&RXQW7HQ- meaningful way to honor Par- WLRQV FDQ EH PDGH GLUHFWO WR QHVVHH ZKHUH VKH ZDV ERUQ ton’s memory, Union Early Dolly Parton’s Imagination DQG UDLVHG ,QVSLUHG E KHU 5HDGHUVLQYLWHVWKHFRPPXQL- /LEUDUWKURXJKKWWSV GRQDWH father and determined to fos- ty to support her literacy mis- LPDJLQDWLRQOLEUDUFRP WHU D ORYH RI UHDGLQJ DPRQJ sion here in Union County. 'RQRUV KDYH WKH RSWLRQ young children, Parton created As Union County’s Lo- to assign the donation to Union a program that mails a care- cal Program Partner for Dolly Early Readers. Parents and fully selected, age-appropriate 3DUWRQ·V ,PDJLQDWLRQ /LEUDU FDUHJLYHUV ZKR ZLVK WR UHJLV- ERRNHDFKPRQWKWRUHJLVWHUHG 8QLRQ(DUO5HDGHUVSURYLGHV WHU D FKLOG IURP ELUWK WKURXJK children at no cost to their local children with access to age four may pick up and comfamilies. this important early-literacy plete registration forms at the :KDW EHJDQ DV D ORFDO program. Community dona- 8QLRQ&RXQW3XEOLF/LEUDU effort has grown into an in- WLRQVKHOSPDNHLWSRVVLEOHIRU By supporting early literacy WHUQDWLRQDO OLWHUDF LQLWLDWLYH more Union County children in Union County, community VHUYLQJ FRPPXQLWLHV DFURVV WRUHFHLYHERRNVDQGGHYHORSD PHPEHUV FDQ KHOS FDUU IRUthe United States and around OLIHORQJORYHRIUHDGLQJ ward one of Dolly Parton’s the world. Through partnerships with local organizations, 7KHUH DUH VHYHUDO ZDV to support Union Early Read- PRVWHQGXULQJJLIWV WKHEHOLHI WKDW HYHU FKLOG VKRXOG KDYH Call our sales team at 800.388.2897 the program works to pro- HUV % PDLO &KHFNV SD- the oppormote kindergarten readiness, encourage family reading, DEOH WR 8QLRQ (DUO 5HDG- HUV PD EH PDLOHG WR 8QLRQ tunity to G L V F R Y H U & visit kingfordsales.com to learn more address early-literacy gaps, Early Readers, P.O. Box 2743, the joy and DQG KHOS FKLOGUHQ EXLOG WKHLU %ODLUVYLOOH *$ % SRVVLELOL- RZQKRPHOLEUDULHVIURPELUWK WKURXJKDJHÀYH =HOOH 'RQDWLRQVPDEHPDGH XVLQJ WKH =HOOH 45 FRGH SUR- ties found LQDERRN 2450 us hwy 64, murphy, NC 28906
Page 4A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Opinions Everybody has one... Breathing Air It’s About Me From Your Commissioner 7KHMRERIDÀUHÀJKWHULQYROYHVZRUNLQJLQKD]DUGRXVHQYL- I’ve spotted a common theme among the various cultural $V , PHQWLRQHG LQ WKH &RPPLVVLRQ PHHWLQJ WKLV VSHFLÀF ronments. These environments may be burning buildings, vehicle voices demanding our attention. It seems everybody has their column will be dedicated to answering questions asked at the last ÀUHVORZR[JHQFRQGLWLRQVDQGRUKD]DUGRXVPDWHULDOV7KHVHHQ- own take on what’s wrong with the world today and what the Commission meeting. Please understand that I’m doing this be- YLURQPHQWVPDLQYROYHÁDPHVKLJKWHPSHUDWXUHVKHDYVPRNH solution is. cause nothing gets accomplished when people talk on top of each DQGWR[LFJDVHV7RZRUNLQWKHVHHQYLURQPHQWVÀUHÀJKWHUVGHSHQG Here is a recap of some of those voices. The problem is other or when people ask the same questions each month. My ofon their Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE. One component of capitalism, which concentrates wealth and leaves people be- ÀFHLVRSHQDQG,·PKDSSWRPHHWZLWKDQRQHZKRPDNHVDQ that PPE is the Self-Contained Breath- hind. The solution is socialism. The appointment. ing Apparatus, or SCBA. Fire Dept. problem is racism. The solutions are All Things When Can We Expect To See Union The SCBA is an essential part from Union reparations and denouncement of New 2025 Financials? – asked by Vince County RIWKHÀUHÀJKWHU·VSHUVRQDOSURWHFWLYH County Peterson. A public request for more Commissioner Fire Chief privilege. The problem is politics. equipment. Along with turnout gear, The solution is to vote for the other GHWDLOHG ÀQDQFLDO UHSRUWLQJ UHTXLUHG WKH 6&%$ DOORZV ÀUHÀJKWHUV WR HQWHU David party. The problem is injustice. The Wayne a migration of some records from Harold these hazardous environments by pro- Dyer solution is to supplant equal op- Fowler one accounting system to another. Collins viding an air supply and respiratory portunity with equal outcome. The The 2025 audit has been delayed SURWHFWLRQ7KLVHQDEOHVWKHÀUHÀJKWHUWRSXWRXWWKHÀUHUHVFXHDQ problem is oppression. The solutions are reimagining laws, law GXHWRDFFRXQWLQJDQGUHFRQFLOLDWLRQLVVXHVLGHQWLÀHGGXULQJWKH occupant, or contain a hazardous chemical in these deadly condi- enforcement, social welfare, healthcare, corporations, and im- year-end review process that are partially due to this requested tions. migration. process. These issues required additional review and correction 7KH6&%$VDUHXVHGEÀUHÀJKWHUVWRGRWKHLUMREDQGWKH The common theme is the call for other people to change RIWKH&RXQW·VÀQDQFLDOUHFRUGVEHIRUHWKHDXGLWRUVFRXOGFRP- DUH DOVR UHTXLUHG HTXLSPHQW E VHYHUDO RUJDQL]DWLRQV (DFK ÀUH their minds. To denounce others is far easier than the bitter task SOHWH WKHLU ZRUN ,PSRUWDQWO WKH LVVXHV LGHQWLÀHG LQYROYHG WKH DSSDUDWXVPXVWKDYH6&%$VLQRUGHUWRFHUWLIWKHÀUHDSSDUDWXV of self-examination. With a beam in your eye, you’ll never see accounting records and did not result in a loss of County funds. VWDWLRQDVSHU*HRUJLD)LUHÀJKWHU6WDQGDUGVDQG7UDLQLQJUHTXLUH- the problem or the solution. G.K. Chesterton agrees. He once Given the scope of the review required, the County engaged an inments. They must also have SCBAs to maintain the ISO rating ac- responded to The Times in his typical paradoxical wit. “Dear GHSHQGHQWDFFRXQWLQJÀUPWRDVVLVWZLWKWKHUHFRQFLOLDWLRQDQGUHcording to the Insurance Services Organization. As part of these Sirs,” he wrote, “Regarding your article ‘What’s Wrong with YLHZRIWKHÀQDQFLDOUHFRUGV7KHDSSURSULDWHH[WHQVLRQZDVÀOHG requirements, the SCBAs must be compliant, operational, and in the World?’ - I am.” with the State, and the County is working with both the accountgood order. The Biblical word for mind change is “repent.” In Jesus’ LQJ ÀUP DQG WKH DXGLWRUV WR FRPSOHWH WKH SURFHVV DV TXLFNO DV Union County Fire Department was able to make a major day, a tower fell and killed 18 people. To those who presumed possible. We recognize and understand the concern regarding the upgrade in our SCBAs last year with the purchase of 120 new MSA the victims were the problem and deserved their fate Jesus said, length of the delay. However, our responsibility is to ensure that Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. The upgrade provides more “I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise per- WKHÀQDQFLDOLQIRUPDWLRQSURYLGHGWRWKHDXGLWRUVDQGXOWLPDWHO safety features, quick air cylinder exchange, and improved mask ish” (Luke 13:5). Jesus helped them see the pressing issue - re- reported to the public is complete and accurate. The audit will be and harness, making the new SCBAs more maneuverable, com- pentance is personal. It starts with me. issued as soon as that review and the remaining audit procedures fortable, and effective. This upgrade provides increased safety for When it does, it means I accept responsibility for my mis- are completed. ÀUHÀJKWHUVDQGHQKDQFHVRXUFDSDELOLWLHVWRÀJKWÀUHDQGSHUIRUP deeds and do my part to restore what is broken, rather than goad- Two Issues But No Question – asked by Kristie Shirkey. rescues. ing others. It means the greatest problem is neither economics, The View Grill located at the Union County Community Center is The upgrade was essential and inevitable. The old SCBAs, politics, nor social issues, but my personal moral responsibility still not open. Portions of Pat Colwell were paved. Other portions packs and regulators, were worn, non-compliant with current NFPA before God. For the believer, it means participating in the divine are now being paved. Would like more communication when it standards, and were constantly requiring repair. The air cylinders, enterprise, “that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be comes to these things. one per pack with a spare, were also reaching their end of life of proclaimed in His name to all the nations” (Luke 24:47). Will There Be A Public Meeting Before Any Flock Re- 15 years. The biggest issue was that the company that made our old Thank God for the gift of forgiveness accessed by faith. lated Contracts Are Signed? – asked by Adam Wright. Flock SCBAs is no longer making them and plans to stop servicing or Camera-related contracts will be treated the same way that all The good news is that the repentant life is possible. By God’s providing parts. other contracts are treated by the County. grace, solving the world’s problems can happen, starting with See Dyer, page 5A me. See Collins, page 5A Toxic People Incorporated Chamber 2026 The toxic person gets a charge out of tell- Why change what works? I keep hearing ing the victim how to live his or her life. The vic- comments about wanting to change different astim is constantly on edge when in the presence of pects of Union County. I recently heard someone the toxic individual because the toxic behavior is mention that there are 159 counties in Georgia threatening and ugly-oriented. The victim’s per- and that Union County is one of only a few with sonal boundaries are disrespected and abused in our particular form of government or that colprivate and in pub- lects a certain tax. lic. The toxic person Successful It got me thinking: Blairsville - Union shows no concern if Mental Union County may Health County the victim’s feelings be unique—but is Chamber are hurt. The toxic Dr. James that necessarily a President person strives for Ray Ashurst bad thing? power and control in PH.D. C o n s i d e r Steve Rowe the relationship. what we have. It should not be surprising to know that Union County has one of the lowest tax rates in toxic individuals will attempt to get their victims the state. Our roads and bridges are well mainto agree with their viewpoints. And they may not tained. Our hospital and schools are consistently EHVDWLVÀHGZLWKRQORQHYLFWLPDWDWLPH$VWKH recognized among the best in Georgia. We have adage says, “The more, the merrier.” The toxic a safe community, outstanding law enforcement person delights in having more persons fall under DQGÀUVWUHVSRQGHUVDQGERWKRXUFRXQWJRYHUQ- KLVRUKHULQÁXHQFH,QWKLVZDLIRQHYLFWLPEDLOV ment and school system remain debt-free. out of the relationship, there are others that the Oh, and did I mention that our Downtown toxic individual can manipulate. The toxic person District is fully occupied? will use his or her persuasive personality traits to I wonder how many of those other 158 exploit others to his or her beliefs. counties would like to be in the same position. Do you have toxic persons in your life? See Chamber, page 5A Letters to the Editor Damned Lies Dolly Joro Spiders Whatever You Did Recently, I had a conversation about I never met her in person, but she appeared If you see a large, menacing-looking For The Least Of These Truth. Well, actually it was more about the op- in our home every Saturday night for years, and black and yellow spider watching you from a posite of Truth – lies. The main gist was that God everyone in our family loved listening to her an- great, intricate web this fall, you will have most Dear Editor, was okay with lying as long as the lie did not gelic voice. I do not know the exact reason why likely seen a Joro spider. They are abundant this “Then the King will say to those on his cause death and could be considered as a path we felt as if she were one of us, but I guess it year. They are relative newcomers to Georgia, right, ‘Come, ... take your inheritance, the king- to peace. I’d never heard that perspective from was because the words she fashioned into her so let’s talk about them. dom prepared for you since the creation of the a believer in God songs hit so close to Joro spiders world. For I was hungry and you gave me some- before. We all know Respect home. If Dolly was Around ZHUH ÀUVW VHHQ LQ thing to eat... the Commandment, Life on the TV, we were The Farm Georgia in 2014. “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, right? And the Old Ministry watching. When I Since then, they Watching when did we see you hungry and feed you... Testament character was a little boy, we have spread and and Working “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, given to prove this Angela watched the Porter Mickey become more popu- Jacob whatever you did for one of the least of these statement was Aaron, Ridley Wagoner Show ev- Cummings lous, so that now Williams brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” the chief priest and ery Saturday just to they are found in - Matthew 25 the patriarch of all the successive Levite priests, hear her sing. I cannot count the times I was told Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, See Levine, page 5A the ones set apart from the other tribes so that to turn the channel on the TV to the Porter and and North Carolina. In 2024 I found a lot of • WKH FRXOG RIIHU VDFULÀFH WR *RG DQG LQVWUXFW Dolly Show, because in those days there were no them, in 2023 there were only a handful. This Slow-Poke Law: people on His laws and statutes. remotes. As the oldest child in the family, I was year they will be even more widespread. I am unfamiliar with the peacemaker part the remote. Female Joro spiders lay eggs in the fall. Same Church, Different Pew of Aaron’s character. The only thing I can recall It was not only Dad that liked to hear her 7KHVH HJJV KDWFK LQ WKH VSULQJ $W ÀUVW WKHVH Dear Editor, is that the Levites gave a blessing to the people sing, my Grandfather always insisted we watch EDE VSLGHUV DUH H[FHHGLQJO VPDOO DQG GLIÀ- I have been thinking about Georgia’s in Exodus 6, per God’s instructions, that said, WKHVKRZDVZHOO,WZDVQHYHUKDUGWRÀQGWKH cult to identify. Spiderlings can crawl to a high “Slow-Poke” law and the argument that it is “May God turn his face toward you and give you show because we were only able to receive two place where they create a balloon out of web that somehow controversial because a driver may be peace.” This reference is to God’s peace – super- or three channels, and to get one of those I would catches the wind. This allows Joros to spread traveling 80 mph in the passing lane when some- natural peace – not the peace of men. And death have to go outside and turn the antenna until quickly as air currents can carry them a large disone approaches from behind at 85 mph. caused by lies? Well, let’s think. Remember that we had better reception. I know you are prob- tance while they are small. In the summer they I don’t see the controversy. passage in Exodus 32, where Moses comes down ably thinking that my Dad and Papa were just ZLOOÀQGDSODFHWRPDNHDZHE7KHGRPRVW The driver in front is not law enforcement. from the mountain with the Commandments, enthralled with her looks, but it was much more of their growing in the summer, so you probably It is not his or her job to decide how fast the driv- written by God, and sees the people worshipping than her beauty. Do you remember her song won’t notice them until late summer. There is a er behind them should be allowed to travel. If the golden calf? The one that Aaron collected about the coat of many colors? big disparity in size between the males and fesomeone is speeding, that’s a matter for a police their gold for? So that he could throw it in the We had just had a Sunday School les- males. The large Joro spiders that you see are all See Wallace, page 5A ÀUH DQG WKHQ IDVKLRQ WKH LGRO ZLWK D WRRO" 7KH son about Joseph’s Daddy giving him a coat of female. The male Joro spider is much smaller, • idol that Aaron then built an altar in front of and many colors. We learned how his brothers had with a leg span of only one inch. Once the males Don’t Let Polluters Off WROGWKHSHRSOHWRFRPHDQGPDNHVDFULÀFHWRWKH sold him into slavery and then soaked that coat are mature, they stop making webs and start gods with burnt offerings? The words he used in lamb’s blood. Afterwards they presented the looking for a female to mate with. Males will of- the Hook for Toxic Coal Ash were, “These are your gods, O Israel, the ones coat to their father, causing him to think Joseph ten compete over females at this point. In the fall Dear Editor, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” had been killed. Then the very next day I heard the females lay their egg sacs that have 400-500 The same Egypt where they were enslaved for WKHVRQJIRUWKHÀUVWWLPHDQG,XQGHUVWRRGZKDW eggs in them. Not all of these eggs will make it to The Environmental Protection Agency is 430 years before the LORD their God, through she was trying to say in her song. About the same maturity, as there will be some cannibalism that proposing dangerous rollbacks to coal ash pro- multiple miracles, brought them out. The idol time my Mom made me a little sling bag I could occurs from spiderlings. tections that would endanger the health of com- that Aaron designed in the form of a calf? A wear over my shoulder. It was army green, and I Joro spiders make large webs. If you look munities across the country. Coal ash, the toxic FDOI VSHFLÀFDOO EHFDXVH LQ (JSW WKH KDG loved wearing it while I played like I was a sol- closely the web strands are yellow. They also waste produced from burning coal, contains ar- learned Apis bull worship – the Egyptian god of GLHUÀJKWLQJLQDZDUDJDLQVWWKH*HUPDQV6RPH are abnormally strong for spider webs. They senic, mercury, lead, and other hazardous pollut- strength, power and fertility? (That was a live big kids made fun of me wearing this shoulder typically like to make their webs along the tree ants that are linked to cancer and serious illness. bull, not a golden one.) Remember that chapter EDJDQGWKHÀUVWWKLQJ,WKRXJKWRIZDV'ROO·V line, walking paths, yards with trees, or across For decades, utilities dumped this waste in Exodus? And when Moses saw this, he lost coat of many colors. I walked up to this teenaged your porch. LQWR XQOLQHG SRQGV DQG ODQGÀOOV DOORZLQJ LW WR his lid and shouted, “You made a graven image!” kid and told him my Mom had made this for me Joro spiders can bite but rarely do so. See Ruland, page 5A And, Aaron responded to Moses with the words, and he’d better shut up unless he wanted a punch Their bites usually disappear after a day or two. • ´,MXVWWKUHZJROGLQWRWKHÀUHDQGRXWKRSSHG in the nose. Joro spiders have venom, as all spiders do, but Property Taxes this calf!” Perhaps this is what Mark Twain was A little later I can remember watching their bite is not known to be medically relevant thinking of when he wrote, “Lies, damned lies, Dolly in an interview with Barbara Walters. She and is not known to harm people or pets. Dear Editor, and more damned lies.” Or something like that. was asked in a question, “Considering where I Because they are so big and create such If you go to these meetings for property The claim was that it is okay to lie if it am from, would my people have called you a large webs, the quick assumption is that these assessments (Board of Assessors) for example, doesn’t cause death. Did anyone die? Yes, 3,000 hillbilly?” She responded in a calm manner by spiders are unwelcome news for our ecosystem. you won’t be so SHOCKED when your prop- of them were put to death by the sword per Mo- saying that she probably would’ve kicked her in The jury is still out, but it appears that they are erty values go up. This year there are those who ses. Oh yeah, and then God sent a plague, and the shins if she had called her that name. I was QRWDVLJQLÀFDQWWKUHDWWRRXUHFRVVWHP,I RU say “Praise the Lord! My property values went we don’t know how many died as a result of that. still pretty young at this point in life and all I when) you spot a Joro spider you can report it to down!” BUT WAIT!?! What about next year? Probably a lot. You might say, but God did that could think of when I heard the word “hillbil- jorowatch.org. This will help researchers keep Your little devaluation for this year is a possible because of the worship of the idol and what it ly” was Little Abner in the comic section of the track of its spread. You can kill them if they are increase of 5% next year! That is what GMASS hid, demon gods. You are correct. But, consider newspaper. But Daddy would get highly offend- a nuisance. However, because they don’t seem See Lodes, page 5A See Ridley, page 5A See Cummings, page 5A See Williams, page 5A North Georgia News Publication No: 001505 Advertising, News deadlines Friday at 4 p.m. • Mail Service for all subscriptions except 30512, 30514 & 30572 (Union Published since 1909 • Legal Organ of Union County County) - One Year $45 INCLUDING UNION COUNTY CUSTOMER REQUEST MAIL SERVICE. In county, Kenneth West Shawn Jarrard Sky Martinez Todd Forrest Lowell Nicholson carrier delivered subscription is $10. All subscriptions must be paid in advance. NORTH GEORGIA NEWS is published Publisher/Owner General Manager/Editor Advertising Sports Editor Photographer weekly by NGN/TCH, Inc., 266 Cleveland Street, Blairsville, Georgia, 30512. Entered as Second Class Matter as of Website: www.nganews.com • Email: northgeorgianews@hotmail.com • Mail: P.O. Box 2029, Blairsville, GA 30514 'HF DWWKH3RVW2IÀFHLQ%ODLUVYLOOHNORTH GEORGIA NEWS is not responsible for errors in advertising The North Georgia News is an independent and nonpartisan publication. As such, third-party views contained herein beyond the cost of the actual space involved. All advertisements are accepted subject to the Publisher’s approval of the are not necessarily the opinions or positions of this newspaper, e.g. advertising, press releases, editorial content, copy and to the space being available, and the Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. perspectives expressed in articles covering local events, etc. Phone: 706-745-6343 Fax: 706-745-1830 • P.O. 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September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5A Cummings...continued from Page 4A Ridley... continued from Page 4A Williams... continued from Page 4A ed if he was called that word. that a lie compounds a sin, just it, “Happy Birthday Coon! mail for women to take at home to have a negative impact on more vibrant and flashy col- , ZDV LQ WKH ÀUVW JUDGH as it compounds a crime in our With all my Love, Dolly.” He with no supervision, no medi- our ecosystem, the recommen- ors with wider bands on its and my parents were invited to legal system. And when you sin wrapped it up and gave it to cal care, and no idea as to who dation is not to kill on sight, abdomen. a parent/teacher conference at against God and then lie about my grandfather on his birth- is actually taking the drugs. Or XQOLNHWKHVSRWWHGODQWHUQÁ If you have questions school. I guess that I wasn’t a it, you actually sin twice. And day. We all went to his house when they ask a breast cancer We also have some about the Joro spider, you very good student at this point lying about the sin you com- and enjoyed a meal and cake patient who has a lump, “Have native spiders that you can contact your County Exand not doing well at learn- mitted shows no remorse and on July 10th. Papa unwrapped you considered medical assis- might get confused with the WHQVLRQ2IÀFHRUHPDLOPHDW ing my ABC’s. Anyway, Mrs. KLV SUHVHQWV DQG ÀQDOO IRXQG places a barrier between you tance in dying?” Joro. The Joro spider has Jacob.Williams@uga.edu. Kilbrite told my Father that I and God. God will not show the one from Dad. It was un- +RZDERXWWKDWYHUÀUVW was a stupid little hillbilly and mercy to a sinner who has no wrapped and slowly unfurled. lie to Eve, from that old serthat I would never amount to anything. For those of you that knew my Father, you probably true remorse (Proverbs 28, When he saw the photograph Luke 13). It occurred to me of Dolly his eyes grew large, that God didn’t kill Aaron, so and then he read the words out pent in Genesis 3, “You will not die if you do this thing that *RGVDLGQRWWRGR UDWKHURX Tolar’s Treasures know that he did not take this he must have been alright with loud. Everyone was snickering will become like God.” Well, well. Words were exchanged and the teacher told my Dad those sins, right? Not quite. In until Granny jumped up and Deuteronomy 9, we are told grabbed the poster. She looked that one certainly never caused any death and instituted lots Antiques, Vintage that she was going to call her husband and she did. My par- that God was so angry he want- at the words and then looked ed to kill all of them and espe- at Daddy asking, “How could of peace among men. Here’s the Truth: When you tell a lie, & Thrift Nook ents left the building and Dad cially Aaron. And Moses was you bring this trashy thing into with the intent to deceive, you waited outside for the husband WHUULÀHG DQG IHOO RQ KLV IDFH my house? You know she is have no idea what the outcome to show up. He never came praying for 40 days, pleading just trying to show off her bo- could actually be. There is no /WTRJ[*Y[5VG because the Principal called him advising him to stay away. with God to spare them. And soms!” Then she tore the poster it says that Moses prayed for into little pieces and took ev- way to control what will ensue. Peace? Not much peace around $NCKTUXKNNG)GQTIKC Dad told me the story later in life and used it to motivate me $DURQ VSHFLÀFDOO ,V 0RVHV· erything outside to burn it. I intercession the reason that thought Papa would be mad at these days. Death? We have an abundant supply. And – brace while I was in school at UGA. KHUEXWKHZDVKDYLQJDÀWRI God spared Aaron? The Bible yourselves now – when you We wanted to prove that lady doesn’t say, but it is likely that laughter while Dad was laugh- lie, you become like the father VQNCTUVTGCUWTGU"IOCKNEQO wrong. without that 40-day prayer, ing so hard tears were rolling of lies, the originator of all de- $IWHU , KDG ÀQLVKHG down his cheeks. Aaron would have been dead. ception, the original liar whose (KPF7U1P(CEGDQQM school and in the early stages $WWKDWPRPHQWLWÀQDOO Lies. They never lead native language is lies. When of my career, my parents went to peace and always lead to dawned upon me that although RXOLHRXUHÁHFWQRWWKHLPto Sevierville and Pigeon Forge destruction. Consider the de- Papa and Daddy loved Dolly, DJHRI*RG UDWKHUZKHQDOLH in June right before my Papa’s valuation of life in our society my Granny didn’t care for her LVVSRNHQLWUHÁHFWVWKHGHYLO·V birthday which was in July. WRGD WKHOLHWKDWVDVWKHUHDUH that much. You might say that core character. Who taught us While there, Dad purchased a those of us – such as the poor, she enjoyed listening to her as this? God himself. In the words big poster of Dolly and wrote the sick, the elderly, the unborn long as there were no posters of of the Great Pope JP2, “Do not the following words upon her in the house. – that offer no value and can, allow yourselves to be infected therefore, be killed. And how with false ideologies.” No lie is Wallace ... continued from Page 4A that is a completely immoral idea that was made completely ever okay with God. RIÀFHUWRHQIRUFH²QRWDQRWKHU dangerous maneuvers to get legal with the lie that said the motorist. around a lane blocker. murder of the innocent, de- Dyer... If a vehicle approaches The simple solution is fenseless, unborn was in our continued from Page 4A from behind while you are in the same: Move over and let constitution. When our constithe passing lane, no matter them pass, “it is the law.” tution only ever talked about The purchase of the 120 what speed, Georgia law says If the driver behind you the right to… life. A culture SCBAs was made in late 2025. you are “required” to move is speeding, let the police of- of death as opposed to what This purchase was a SPLOST over when you know or reason- ÀFHUGHFLGHWKDW,IWKHGULYHU God breathed into us, his very project, and the cost was apably should know you are be- is driving recklessly, let law image, a culture of life. Con- proximately $1,171,000. After ing overtaken. It doesn’t give enforcement deal with that. sider all the lies that the abor- set-up and training, the SCBAs you the authority to become a Your job is not to hold them tion and euthanasia industries ZHUHSODFHGRQHDFKÀUHDSSD- VHOIDSSRLQWHGWUDIÀFRIÀFHU up. Want to know more? VSUHDG OLNH ZLOGÀUH REVFXULQJ ratus throughout the county. We Think about it this way: Look it up in the Georgia our intellects and overwhelm- are extremely thankful to Com- If someone parks a shopping 7UDIÀF&RGH 2&*$ ing our emotions. And once the missioner Collins, staff, and all cart in the middle of a narrow F ´,PSHGLQJ WUDIÀF falsehoods are repeated often who worked on this project. We Walmart aisle and refuses to ÁRZ PLQLPXP VSHHG OLPLWV enough, they begin to feel like are especially grateful to the move when you politely ask slower driving in a passing facts. Such as the “do no harm” citizens of Union County who to pass, that person is delib- lane.” Make sure you read and oath of the medical commu- continue to support SPLOST, erately preventing you from analyze this law before you nity. That is a fact, right? Oh, which makes these upgrades proceeding. On the highway, prematurely make a comment yeah, except for those 73 mil- possible. the situation is more serious on this “fact.” It’s not just my lion abortions where they suck ~Union County Fire Debecause vehicles are travel- opinion. the baby out of the womb in partment – Our Family Protecting at highway speeds and Tom Wallace multiple pieces. No harm done ing Your Family~ frustrated drivers may make Georgia Taxpayer there. Or when they mail seri- ous abortion drugs through the Ruland... continued from Page 4A Levine... leak into drinking water. Strong rules only ensures more pol- continued from Page 4A federal safeguards put in place lution, more illness, and more in 2015 and expanded in 2024 communities left to deal with The Senior Center of ÀQDOOEHJDQKROGLQJSROOXWHUV the consequences. Union County is in need of accountable. Now, those pro- The EPA’s job is to pro- volunteers to drive your own tections are being dismantled, tect people, not corporate pol- vehicles once a week for about exempting hundreds of toxic luters. We must speak out and two to three hours while dedump sites and allowing com- demand that these safeguards livering food to those in need. panies to delay or avoid clean- remain in place. Our health, Please call 706-439-6105 to up altogether. our water, and our future de- ÀQGRXWKRZ This is a direct threat to pend on it. Bless you, public health. Industry data al- History tells us about the Richard Levine ready shows that groundwater dangers of coal, nothing has at most coal plant sites is contaminated above federal safety changed. Sincerely, Collins... standards. Weakening these Kate Ruland continued from Page 4A :KDW ,V 7KH 2IÀFLDO Position Of The County In Lodes ... continued from Page 4A The Use Of Flock Cameras is projecting to the Board of ify. Public Utilities pay 40% if In The County? – asked by Assessors that may (and most the County keeps your personal Gary St. Lawrence. I feel likely) be projected onto your SURSHUWEDVHDWRUKLJKHU WKDW WKH SXEOLF VDIHW EHQHÀWV property values. Example: if it is less than 38% then the provided by Flock cameras $500,000 property this year Public Utilities also pay less outweigh the potential contimes additional .05% might be than 38%. Less revenue for the cerns about their use. In other valued at $525,000 next year. county, more taxes for you, go words, when considering both Big increase, huh? ÀJXUH7KDWZDVGHWHUPLQHGE WKH EHQHÀWV DQG FRQFHUQV WKH Looks like our percent- Case Law (Courts in 1995) not advantages of Flock cameras age that our property taxes will GA Revenue & Taxation Law. outweigh the drawbacks. be based on will be approxi- It is no wonder your Would The Commismately 38.91% of the value of property taxes go up every sioner Support A Move To our property, but check your year. Change The Georgia Public tax bill when it comes in to ver- Marsha Lodes Meetings Act To Require The County To Notify The Public Of Why A Meeting Is Post- Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 7394 poned Or Rescheduled? – Kicks-Off Annual Essay Competition asked No. by Gary St. Lawrence. Chamber... continued from Page 4A How many would like to re- place a roof, repair a washed- out culvert, or build and equip Commander Chuck Students begin by com- a new 911 center without Honaker of the Veterans of peting at the local Post level. having to borrow the money? Foreign Wars of the United Post winners advance to Dis- How many would like to have States. Post 7394 , announced trict competition with District a fully occupied downtown November 7 - 8, 2026 10 AM - 4 PM the kick-off of the VFW’s an- winners advancing to the state district and tourism contribnual Patriot’s Pen youth essay FRPSHWLWLRQ 6WDWH ÀUVWSODFH uting 20–25% of their annual Event Held at Towns County Rec Center, Young Harris, GA competition. Middle school winners compete for their budget? students in grades 6-8 in this share of thousands of dollars Being different doesn’t Vendors Wanted! area have the opportunity to in awards, and the national necessarily mean something is compete and win thousands of ÀUVWSODFH ZLQQHU LV DZDUGHG wrong. Sometimes, it means dollars in national awards. $5,000 and an all-expense-paid something is working. The VFW enacted the trip to Washington, D.C. Each Before we decide that Patriot’s Pen competition in year, more than 125,000 stu- Union County needs to change, 1995 to encourage young dents participate nationwide. let’s take the time to underminds to examine America’s Deadline for student stand what we have, why we history, along with their own entries is October 31, and in- have it, and what has made our experiences in modern Ameri- terested students and teach- community successful. CALL 706-896-4966 or can society by composing a ers should contact their lo- Be informed. Get in- 300- to 400-word patriotic- cal VFW Post by email volved. Get out and vote. EMAIL lcchamber2021@gmail.com themed essay. The theme for vfw7394@outlook.org for Most importantly, know what the 2026-27 competition is more information. FOR DE- makes Union County such a https://bit.ly/469L21T “What a Veteran Taught Me TAILS VISIT: https://www. great place to live, work and About America.” vfw.org/PatriotsPen. play. AUTOS, HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS, FLEETS, MOTORHOMES MOUNTAIN VIEW We Offer: Standard Oil Changes & Full Service Multi-point Inspection Oil Changes in Foreign & OIL CHANGE Domestic vehicles. We Carry: Full Synthetic Mobil, 249 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512 Castrol Oils for gas vehicles, & Shell Rotella T4, T5, T6 Oils for diesel vehicles, and can top off D.E.F. We offer Military Discounts with ID. 706-400-5698 Tuesday - Saturday 9 AM-5 PM (No Appointment Necessary)
Page 6A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 cell: 706-781-7945 Squirrel Man ...from Page 1A MINDY ALLEN TEAM they’ll pass that on to their Mindy Allen / Ria Storm children. He showed them 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville GA Assoc. Brokers/Sisters EHWWHUWKDQDVFUHHQRXWWKHUH with the animals.” 706-745-8097 50 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE! $YD ,UYLQ ZDV RQH RI 2007 Keystone those children who knew Mountaineer 5th Wheel Johnson as a teacher. She grew on lot 43 in Arrowhead XS YLVLWLQJ 0HHNV 3DUN DQG Valley RV Resort. Own recalled how Johnson helped a part of the mtns!!! her catch and identify snakes. Year-round living When she managed to get permitted. Community ELWWHQRQHWLPHKHSURGXFHGD pool, pavilion, laundry. ÀUVWDLGNLWIURPKLVWUXFNDQG 3-slides, furnished. helped her clean the wound. #419235 $110,000 “I spent countless hours Waterside at Blue with him, just sitting or walking Ridge. Forrest River DURXQGµ ,UYLQ VDLG ´+H ZDV 2024 Cedar Creek VXFK D JUHDW PDQ ,·YH JURZQ Cottage (25th Anniv. up with him, and he’s touched Steve “The Squirrel Man” Johnson doing one of the things he Edition) on small Comm PDQPDQOLYHVµ loved best in life – feeding local wildlife he had befriended at lake lot. 40’ cottage, Johnson sat in the park Meeks Park. Photo/Submitted 3 slides, King bed, HYHUGDIURPPRUQLQJXQWLO DJUHHGWKDWDVWDWXHVKRXOGEH angry. For solace, we must look dbl loft. Cov gazebo. AMENITIES! STRs OK! well into the afternoon, content set, with some suggesting that only to Jesus,” said Shipman, #419757 $164,900 to patiently feed the local -RKQVRQEHVXUURXQGHGEWKH SRLQWLQJ RXW KRZ HYHQ -HVXV MUNDY MILL Town- wildlife. Some stories told of children he taught, and others JULHYHG GHHSO IRU /D]DUXV ship Opp! Townhome how he stopped children from recommending the Squirrel and so, too, should the friends Located btw Gainesville throwing rocks at ducks or sat 0DQEHIRUHYHUSRVHGZLWKKLV RI -RKQVRQ JULHYH DQG ILQG & Oakwood. 4BR/2.5 VWLOODQGDOORZHGELUGVWRSOXFN EHORYHG ELUGV DQG VTXLUUHOV FRPIRUWLQWKH6DYLRU BA, Great Room w/ VWUDQGVIURPKLVEHDUGWREXLOG Some pledged funds and As a U.S. Army Veteran, corner gas log fplc, their nests. VHUYLFHV EXW LW ZDV DJUHHG WR -RKQVRQ UHFHLYHG IXOO PLOLWDU LVP Àooring, SS appl, One common sentiment ÀQDOL]HWKHGHWDLOVODWHU honors at his funeral courtesy of solid c-tops. 1660 SQFT. shared among attendees “We here know the pain the North Georgia Honor Guard. $1200 HOA AMENITIES! was that Johnson needed a of loss. It’s real, it’s raw, it’s When the time to #421030 $315,000 memorial at Meeks Park. Most deep, it hurts – it makes us UHPLQLVFHKDGSDVVHGHYHURQH ÀOWHUHGRXWVLGHIRUWKHJUDYHVLGH Young Harris Jamboree Friday VHUYLFH WR VROHPQO ZLWQHVV re WKHULÁHYROOHDQGIROGLQJRI F o ” WKH ÁDJ 6HYHUDO RSHQO ZHSW during the playing of “Taps,” Go lf “ and again at “Amazing Grace” RQEDJSLSHV 1RWDEODVLJQZDVOHIW KDQJLQJRQWKHWUHHRYHUORRNLQJ es -RKQVRQ·VJUDYH,WVDLGVLPSO the B abi “Squirrels Welcome.” Anyone who knew the Squirrel Man knew he enjoyed eating at Mike’s Seafood, and those who wish to continue FHOHEUDWLQJKLVOLIHDQGOHJDF Date of Tournament September 26th DUH LQYLWHG WR WKH UHVWDXUDQW WR VKDUH SLFWXUHV YLGHRV DQG Deadline to register September 10th VWRULHVRYHUOXQFKIURPDP to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5. Chatuge Shores Golf Course, Hayesville NC $QRQHZKRKDVWURXEOH SDLQJIRUWKHLUPHDOLVLQYLWHG to contact Samantha McVay at (L-R): John Cochran, Moriah Owenby and Wayne Owenby 706-897-6144. $ CASH 4 $ Fall is just around the of the Pioneers, Roy Rogers, Registration $400 for a 4 Man Team corner, and to usher in the Gene Autry and others. Join season, John Cochran and LQIRUDQHYHQLQJRIIXQDVWKH $ $ WKH &RZKDQGV ZLOO EH VLQJ- Cowhands sing some of your $ Antique/Barn $ Sign In 8:15 AM, Tee Off 9 AM ing Western classics, West- IDYRULWH:HVWHUQFODVVLFV $ $ ern swing, and inspirational 7KH /RGJH ZLOO VHUYH $ Tools $ songs this Friday, Sept. 4, at a light supper for those who $ Old Tractors $ SP DW 6WHSKHQV /RGJH would like to eat. There is $ $ $ $ Register on our website LQ <RXQJ +DUULV 7KH DGGUHVV a small charge for the meal. $ & Wagons $ is 135 Murphy Street. There is +RSHWRVHHRXDWWKH-DPER- $ Labosco’s at the $ wecfamilyresources.org/events no admission. John and the Cowhands, ree! $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ Also, The Cowhands $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ RUFDOORXURI¿FHV 0RULDK 2ZHQE DQG :DQH ZLOOEHSHUIRUPLQJDWWKH+HUL- $ $ 706-745-0097 $ $ 2ZHQEZLOOEHVLQJLQJVRQJV WDJH )HVWLYDO LQ %ODLUVYLOOH WKDW ZHUH VXQJ E WKH 6RQV Sept. 5 & 6. CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! Licensed in GA & NC c: 706-897-0956 NEW LISTING o: 706-222-5588 KarynWoody.com karynwoody@mountainsir.com NEW PRICE 854 Frog Pond Road | Hiawassee, GA Offered at $595,000 • MLS #435437 Enjoy classic mountain living in this well-kept 3-bedroom, 3-bath cabin-style home with long-range mountain views, seasonal Lake Chatuge views, a wraparound deck, wood-burning fireplace, and a full basement with garage. Listing Agent: Robert Rogers • 706-897-0962 233 Bradshaw Road | Hiawassee, GA Now Offered for $778,000 Enjoy Lake Chatuge living in this updated 4BR/3BA lakefront home with two primary suites, lake and mountain views, and a brand-new dock. Virtually Staged Ideal for full-time living, a vacation retreat, or rental use, with convenient access to Hiawassee and Hayesville. 1160 Hidden Lake Road | Blairsville, GA Offered at $330,000 • MLS #424980 One-level Blairsville ranch on 1.39 gentle acres with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, gas log fireplace, screened porch, fenced yard, covered parking, attached workshop/storage, fresh paint, and new bedroom carpet. Listing Agent: Tina McDaniel • 706-713-6004 Virtually Staged 61 Deerwood Trail | Blairsville, GA 93 Collins Nursery Lane | Blairsville, GA Offered at $429,900 • MLS #434629 Offered for $650,000 Renovated 3-bedroom, 3-bath Lake Nottely cabin with lake and mountain views, Set on more than six acres of pasture and woodland, this property updated kitchen, main-level primary suite, wraparound decks, semi-finished features a 3BR/2BA main home, separate 1BR/1BA guest house, barn, basement, workshop, and detached garage. Minutes from Blairsville & the marina. ac chicken coop, garden area, and usable land ideal for a homestead, mini- farm, or private retreat near Blairsville. Listing Agent: Erin Brown • 706-781-9809
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7A AirLife celebrates 10 years of serving North Georgia By Delaney Derry emergencies. North Georgia News The crew primarily Staff Writer VHUYHV 8QLRQ DQG 7RZQV For the past 10 years, counties in Georgia and Clay when time has mattered most &RXQW 1RUWK &DUROLQD EXW for patients in the North ZLOO UHVSRQG ZKHUHYHU LW Georgia Mountains, AirLife is needed. Importantly, the Georgia has helped close the VHUYLFH LV DERXW PRUH WKDQ GLVWDQFHEHWZHHQDQHPHUJHQF simply getting a patient from DQG OLIHVDYLQJ FDUH ZLWK LWV one location to another. %ODLUVYLOOHEDVHG KHOLFRSWHU & U H Z V F D Q S U R Y L G H DPEXODQFHVHUYLFH DGYDQFHGPHGLFDOFDUHGXULQJ A i r L i f e G e o r g i a IOLJKW LQFOXGLQJ LQWXEDWLRQ c o m m e m o r a t e d i t s 1 0 t h EORRG DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ DQG DQQLYHUVDU KHUH RQ$XJ certain surgical procedures with a gathering at the Union VXFK DV FKHVW WXEH SODFHPHQW County Farmers Market, AirLife Georgia is one of only EULQJLQJ WRJHWKHU SDVW DQG WZREDVHVLQ*HRUJLDHTXLSSHG FXUUHQW ÁLJKW FUHZ PHPEHUV WRSURYLGHWKDWOHYHORIFDUH DUHD OHDGHUV ÀUVW UHVSRQGHUV For Holly Murray, a and community partners to Certified Flight Registered UHFRJQL]HDGHFDGHRIVHUYLFH Nurse with AirLife Georgia, Among those gathered WKHUHODWLRQVKLSVEXLOWRYHUWKH WR FHOHEUDWH WKH DQQLYHUVDU past decade are one of the most were partners who work PHDQLQJIXOSDUWVRIVHUYLQJLQ alongside AirLife Georgia, a smaller community. including Union County Fire “We honestly feel really & Rescue, Union General EMS EOHVVHG ZLWK WKH FRPPXQLW personnel and other community WKDWZHKDYHµ0XUUDVDLG´$ supporters. ORWRIRXUEDVHVDUHLQH[WUHPHO Part of Air Methods ODUJHDUHDVDQGYHUPHWURDQG //&$LU/LIH*HRUJLDSURYLGHV they don’t actually get to know AirLife Georgia landed its medical helicopter at the Union County Farmers Market last week to commemorate a decade of critical care transportation their customers. serving the North Georgia Mountains. Photo by Delaney Derry WKURXJKRXW %ODLUVYLOOH DQG ´+HUH ZH KDYH SHRSOH surrounding communities. Its FRPH WR WKH EDVH WKH FRPH XV YHU GLIIHUHQW IURP RWKHU LQFOXGLQJ D YHQWLODWRU DQG KHOLFRSWHUV IXQFWLRQ DV ÁLQJ WR WKH KHOLFRSWHU <RX JHW WR programs.” WHFKQRORJWKDWHQDEOHVFUHZV LQWHQVLYHFDUHXQLWVVWDIIHGE VHH WKH SDWLHQWV WKDW RX·YH For patients experiencing WR SURYLGH KLJKIORZ QDVDO registered medics and nurses ÁRZQ DIWHUZDUGV$QG ZH DOO WLPHVHQVLWLYHHPHUJHQFLHVWKH cannula oxygen to pediatric trained to care for patients IHHO YHU SDVVLRQDWH DERXW GLIIHUHQFH FDQ EH VLJQLÀFDQW patients. experiencing traumatic injuries, that, and that is something so According to Murray, a trip For Murray and the rest strokes and other medical special to this area. It makes that could take approximately RI WKH FUHZ WKH DQQLYHUVDU PLQXWHVEJURXQGRYHUWKH ZDV QRW RQO D FHOHEUDWLRQ PRXQWDLQV FDQ WDNH DERXW RI WKH SDVW HDUV EXW DOVR PLQXWHVEDLU an opportunity to thank the AirLife GA 14, the FRPPXQLWWKHVHUYH KHOLFRSWHU EDVHG DW 8QLRQ “We are so thankful to General Hospital, is also EH KHUH DQG ZH UHDOO IHHO equipped for Instrument Flight KRQRUHG WR VHUYH RX JXVµ Rules, or IFR, allowing the Murray said. “We thank you for crew to operate in challenging DOORZLQJ XV WR EH KHUH DQG WR ZHDWKHU DQG OLPLWHG YLVLELOLW help these customers and help when conditions permit. RXUSDWLHQWV:HORYHKRZFORVH 7KHEDVHRSHUDWHVD%HOO we are in our relationships, so 407 helicopter, well suited for we are thankful to you for the the terrain of the North Georgia 10 years and we’re hoping for Mountains. Its capacity can many more.” also allow crews, when safely According to the permitted, to transport a parent c o m p a n y, “ A i r M e t h o d s DORQJVLGH D FKLOG UHFHLYLQJ LV FRPPLWWHG WR SURYLGLQJ care. DLU PHGLFDO VHUYLFHV WR DOO As medical technology PHPEHUV RI WKH FRPPXQLWLHV FRQWLQXHVWRDGYDQFHVRGRHV LWVHUYHVDQGLVLQQHWZRUNZLWK the care AirLife Georgia can most major health insurance SURYLGH LQ WKH DLU ,Q WKH SDVW SURYLGHUV DFURVV WKH FRXQWU two years, the crew has added for emergency air medical .HQGUD.LQJZLOOEHFHOHEUDWLQJ equipment that allows a machine VHUYLFHV her 85th Birthday to perform chest compressions “Additionally, their on patients, reducing the SDWLHQW DGYRFDF SURJUDP RQ6DWXUGD6HSWHPEHUWK need for medics and nurses to works with all patients, +$33<%,57+'$<0RP SHUIRUPFRPSUHVVLRQVEKDQG regardless of insurance, to We love you and are thankful for you! The crew of AirLife GA 14 was happy to show off its air GXULQJÁLJKW HQVXUH DIIRUGDELOLW ZKLOH Michelle, Melanie, Rylan, ambulance capabilities during the Aug. 26 anniversary The helicopter carries making pre-paid air medical celebration. Photo by Delaney Derry other specialized equipment, PHPEHUVKLSXQQHFHVVDUµ Cameron and Caden APPAREL • SPORTING GOODS • GIFTS • FURNITURE LABOR DAY SALE 20% OFF STOREWIDE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 4 482 T own C r eek S c hool Rd., B l a i r sville, GA a l e x a n d e rsstore.com | 7 0 6 - 7 45-6450
Page 8A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Georgia Mountain Writers Club August meeting Fall /Christmas OPEN HOUSE (L-R) seated: Kim Dane, Harriett Trippe, Cathy Dalton, June Rollins, Pat Miner; standing: Jim Miner, Jackie Volk, Rob Rollins, Steve Bradford, Sandy Placzek, James F. Davis, Ginny Valletti, Connie Rosen- berry, Robert Harford; not pictured: Fred Teagle What do writers do in the contest to grant three wishes to someone wants dead. When middle of a hot, wet summer? someone who can answer three his wife dies under suspicious We enjoy the AC and dream questions: the secret to success, circumstances, he realizes he of cooler days, or in our case, the greatest piece of advice, and is being hunted and hides. As a magic ice cream truck that how to maintain good relation- people around him are mur- shows up on the hottest days. ships. Lily, from rural Georgia, dered he finds a strange way of That was one of the writing wins with her selfless heart and striking back. topics given to members of the giving three unexpected an- Rob Rollins was a first- Georgia Writers Club. swers to his questions. time visitor, supposedly at the June Rollins may have Other writers offered a encouragement of his wife. His wished for an ice cream truck wonderful array of stories. Fred first attempt at writing a sub- to drive past her house, but Teagle read “The Courage to mission for the group he dread- childhood memories portrayed Obey,” a discussion of the rela- ed meeting is humorous as he a sharp contrast between neigh- tionship of trusting God, and the envisions the group with their borhoods that have ice cream courage to act on His commands. red pens poised. Fortunately, trucks and those that don’t. James F. Davis read for us, I think we passed the Kim Dane’s story took about his harrowing visit to test. No red pens were in sight. a more spiritual approach Russia during the Cold War Sandy Placzek wrote when she portrayed God who when he was on active duty “Jury Duty.” In her story, told knew the special needs of His in the U.S. Army as an officer by a conversation between two children. Using a magical ice with secret security clearance, women we hear how a woman cream truck that goes on a mis- unaware that it was in violation called to jury duty ends up dis- sion to meet the needs of those of Army regulation. rupting the trial and ultimately children, the truck shows up In Á Day Late and a Dol- getting out of jury duty as a re- at lonely Terry’s house with lar Late,” Harriet Trippe wrote sult. a puppy, a soft cuddly gift for a tribute to her highly protec- Jim Miner used his read- Terry to love. tive father, offering several ex- ing time to discuss questions he Another topic several amples and explaining how his has about protecting his work writers chose was Three Wish- protectiveness is premier to her and the different ways there es. What would you wish for if way of thinking, today. are of publishing or printing his you suddenly could have three Cathy Dalton wrote a stories out for his children. wishes? piece about a wonderful mem- Our next meeting is Steve Bradford updat- ber of the Georgia Mountain Wednesday, September 2. We ed the Genie in a lamp story. Writers Club (Franklyn) who is meet at the North Georgia When a man frees a genie from often unable to attend and his Technical College at 10 AM his cellphone and is granted contributions to our monthly in room 414. Enter through the three wishes, he isn’t care- meetings. main entrance. Suggested top- ful. After the first two wishes Pat Miner wrote a ics are: Jury Duty, or A conver- bring disaster to others, instead thought-provoking essay on sation with ‘Alexa’, or any of of using his third wish for the death and dignity called “To Be your interactive devices. Have wealth he wants, he has to use or Not to Be, That is the Ques- you talked to them? Do they it to save a young man and his tion,” on the condition to our talk back? If you are able, it kids from misery. dignity caused by Dementia. is nice to bring a few printed Robert Harford’s wishes Ginny Valletti read the copies for those who have dif- took an altruistic look at three summary of her forthcoming ficulty hearing. Please keep all deeply detailed wishes to better book, Maxx Syzygy, M.D.— readings to five minutes so all humanity. Hunted. Maxx is a brilliant have time to read. Questions Jackie Volk wrote a story surgeon, millionaire inventor may be directed to connie. in which a millionaire has a and benevolent nice guy that rosenberry3@gmail.com. N(Sep2,Z5)CA A Human Spark: Candy Retter, Cat Lover Extraordinaire Some months ago I fears, and give hugs to one an- wrote about Jeanne Strack, other. who founded a cage-free se- As a volunteer, Can- A Human nior dog sanctuary and hos- dy enjoys her time with the Spark pice, Senior Scenter, in nearby chimps and the energetic and Warne, North Carolina. Now young staff and volunteers Myra Gross I’m giving equal billing to an- who care for them and are of- Schoen other one of our favorite pet ten discovering new facets of species: Cats! I, myself, have their lives. hike leader for Mountain High been a cat owner for decades, In her home, Candy is Hikers. as well as a more recent dog caregiver and owner of seven Candy believes in find- owner. (Yes, Puccini, that cats, six of which are orange ing your bliss. “What brings means you!) gingers. When she is not play- you joy?” she asks. For Candy, Candy Retter, of Blairs- ing with, feeding, or groom- it’s simple and basic: her mar- ville, is a cat lover extraordi- ing her “fur babies,” Candy is riage, friends, cats, chimps, naire, and also a volunteer at contributing to other nonprofit and the great outdoors. She Project Chimps in Morganton, animal rights causes, includ- faces life with practicality Georgia, in the Blue Ridge ing Castoff Pet Rescue and its and simplicity: “I know what Mountains. Candy’s love of bingo operations that support I like, and what I don’t like. animals is testament to her hu- the group’s activities with a I make the best of whatever man spark. She has compas- game on Wednesday evenings comes my way.” sion and respect and advocates at Haralson Civic Center. How about you? for the safety and welfare of Candy credits her father ***I received an email critters in the animal kingdom. for her love of animals. Over recently from a reader, Martha Most of the 104 chimps the years the family adopted Miller, who commented on a at the Morganton sanctuary cats, dogs, and rabbits. When column about George Owen, a were born and bred in the lab Candy completed her college hiking trail activist, a friend of for medical research at New studies in history and politi- 36 years. Martha wrote to me Iberia Research Center in cal science, she considered about Steve Johnson, “better Louisiana, never having expe- a career in law, education, or known as the Squirrel Man,” rienced life in nature. Not pets, veterinary medicine. Instead, whom she suggested for my chimps are an endangered spe- an ad for a pet grooming job column. Unfortunately, Mr. cies due to deforestation for beckoned, and for 44 years in Johnson had just passed away, agriculture, logging, mining, Broward County, Florida, she but we recognize him as an- and infrastructure develop- established and owned a pet other person with the “Human ment in regions where they grooming business, a calling Spark,” who was a kind and once flourished. that satisfied her inner being. gentle man feeding squirrels Chimps are no longer When she moved to and birds daily at Meeks Park, used for medical research. Blairsville in 2010 with her and will not be soon forgotten. Now they are living their husband, Frank, Candy was Footnote: if you know best life in groups and get to drawn to the legendary rec- someone with “A Human experience chimp life, which reational activities of this re- Spark,” please let us know for is much like human society. gion: kayaking and hiking. On future editions of the Towns Surprisingly, chimpanzees any sunny day, Candy will be County Herald or North Geor- express emotions, feelings, found kayaking on one of the gia News by contacting willow- compassion, temper tantrums, area’s rivers or as a volunteer 2mtn@gmail.com. NT(Sep2,Z19)CA Ninth District Opportunity, Inc. awarded federal funds under The Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program Phase 43 shelter programs in high-need or shelter programs, and 5) if areas around the country. they are a private voluntary A Local Board made up organization, they must have of various local agencies and a voluntary board. Qualifying Towns & Union County churches will determine how agencies (not individuals) are has been chosen to receive the funds awarded to Towns urged to apply. funding to supplement emer- & Union County are to be dis- Towns & Union County gency food and shelter pro- tributed among the emergency has distributed Emergency grams in the county. food and shelter programs run Food and Shelter funds pre- The selection was made by local service agencies in viously with Ninth District by a National Board that is the area. The Local Board is Opportunity and other local chaired by the Department responsible for recommending agencies participating. These of Homeland Security’s Fed- agencies to receive these funds agencies were responsible for eral Emergency Management and any additional funds avail- providing food and shelter for Agency and consists of rep- able under this phase of the local individuals and families. resentatives from American program. Public or private volun- Red Cross; Catholic Chari- Under the terms of the tary agencies (not individu- ties, USA; National Council of grant from the National Board, als) interested in applying for the Churches of Christ in the local agencies chosen to re- Emergency Food and Shelter U.S.A.; The Salvation Army; ceive funds must: 1) be private Program funds must submit United Jewish Communities voluntary non-profits or units a request to Chrystal Coker, and, United Way of America. of government, 2) have an ac- Ninth District Opportunity, The Local Board was charged counting system, 3) practice Inc, P.O. Drawer L, Gaines- to distribute funds appropri- nondiscrimination, 4) have ville, GA, 30501. The dead- ated by Congress to help ex- demonstrated the capability to line to submit a request is Sep- pand the capacity of food and deliver emergency food and/ tember 11, 2026. NT(Sep2,Z7)CA
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9A 2026 Georgia Prescribed Fire Council Meeting in Valdosta This week, Kim, and he promotes the use of inten- lows the council to be en- conditions, determine the burns are designed so that I, along with many of our tionally (prescribed) set fire gaged in prescribed fire advo- type of fire needed, and then smoke-sensitive areas like Frank fire friends, will be attending the Georgia Prescribed Fire in our forests. In some areas such as parts of California cacy across the state. Forest lands constitute significant write a “prescription” for the application of fire. Prescribed roads and residences, etc. are not negatively affected by the Riley Council meeting in Valdosta changing the message is too economic, biological, and burns are permitted by the burn. Smoke from prescribed Executive where 300 or so foresters, late and now with the build- aesthetic resources of state- Georgia Forestry Commis- fires does not contribute ap- Director landowners, consultants, and up of years of fuels, they are wide importance. Frequent sion depending on predicted preciably to air quality is- of RC&D others who use prescribed experiencing the largest, hot- fires, set by lightning strikes weather conditions and safe- sues since the practice typifire to manage their forests test, longest, and most expen- and Native Americans, have ty measures to be used. cally avoids times of stagnant gather to share experiences sive wildfires in history. shaped Georgia’s ecosystems GFC also offers a Cer- summer air. However, uncon- 2026 Georgia Prescribed and learn about new tech- The Georgia Prescribed for thousands of years. Our tified Burner Manager Pro- trolled wildfires usually oc- Fire Council meeting at the niques for managing fire in Fire Council members pro- forest ecosystems evolved gram that serves to enhance cur during the summer when Rainwater Conference Centheir woodlands. mote the wise use of planned with fire and continue to need the skills of land managers there is already a bad urban ter in Valdosta on September Fire is a natural phe- and controlled fire to get our the strategic application of and acquaint burners with air quality problem. 2, 2026 to support the cause nomenon that has occurred forests back in line with the fire that mimics this natural regulations and offer oppor- We can reduce the risk and help get our forests back in our forests since the be- way nature intended it to be. cycle. The plants and animals tunities for more advanced of wildfires and the resulting into the fire cycle as nature ginning of time and main- The mission of the Georgia of the pine woods are accus- training. Smoke from pre- smoke or air quality problems intended. tains a natural balance in the Prescribed Fire Council is: To tomed to frequent fires and scribed fires is a sign that cer- with well-timed prescribed Check www.garxfire. environment. Some of our protect the right, to encour- depend on these fires for their tain lands are being cared for fires. No other tool can effec- com for more information well-intentioned ancestors age the use of, and to pro- survival. properly. Great care is taken tively remove the hazardous and to register go to Eventdecided that they knew bet- mote public understanding by prescribed fire managers buildup of woodland fuels brite and search for Georgia Fire is as natural as sunter how to maintain the envi- of prescribed fire. Prescribed to minimize any temporary and help maintain our forests. prescribed fire; or go to www. ronment than mother nature, fires were used by such a va- shine, rain, and wind in many inconveniences created by If you are interested in chestchattrcd.org. Rememso they created programs to riety of individuals, agencies, plant communities including smoke, and smoke manage- forest health and prescribed ber, “Only You can Prevent extinguish all fires in the for- and organizations through- upland pine, pine flatwoods, ment plans for prescribed fires, then plan to attend the Wildfires!” est. Smokey Bear was the out the state that the South- marshes, and wet prairies. main culprit and used to say, west Georgia Prescribed Fire Fire also benefits many of “Only YOU can prevent For- Council was established in the rare animal species in our est Fires!” and our firefight- 2002 in a regional effort to state that are declining. Some ers worked hard to extinguish encourage the exchange of of these declines are caused all fires in the forest which information, techniques, and almost totally by fire excluhas led to build up of fuels experience among practitio- sion. Frequent fires prevent that contributes to the out-of- ners. the build-up of flammable control wildfires that we have In January of 2007, the fuels in the forest that set the today. steering committee, work- stage for destructive wildfires Only recently has ing with all partners, de- when ignition does occur. Smokey Bear changed his cided to expand and become “Prescribed burning motto to “Only YOU can the Georgia Prescribed Fire means the controlled applicaprevent Wildfires!” and now Council. This platform al- tion of fire to existing vegeta- tive fuels under specific en- The Mountain Community Choir vironmental conditions and following appropriate pre- Open Auditions September 14th cautionary measures, which causes the fire to be confined The Mountain Commu- and fellowship. We pride our to a pre-determined area and nity Choir is excited to begin a chorus as a supportive place accomplishes one or more new concert season and invite where singers can grow musisingers of all experience levels cally and experience the joy of planned land management to join! Open auditions will be performing together. objectives, or to mitigate catheld on Monday, September Join this vibrant com- astrophic wildfires.” 14th starting at 6 PM with the munity choir for another great Georgia Prescribed first rehearsal following at 7 season of music as it delights Burning Act, 1992. Pre- PM. us with the beautiful sounds of scribed burning is carried out Both will be held in the the season. by experienced, trained, and basement of the fine arts build- For more details visit : certified land managers on ing at Young Harris College. http/www. mountain community both public and private lands There is no need for chorus.org or email Terry Hoop- throughout Georgia. These singers to prepare anything for er at: rterry.hooper@gmail.com. professionals assess forest the audition, however, previous choral experience and the ability to read music is most Friday & Saturday Night Concerts helpful. at the Old Courthouse on the Square There is a $25 membership fee that is collected at registration. Rehearsals are held on Monday evenings from CertiÀcation # M1844 7-8:30PM. This concert season will be a continuation of the “Celebrate America” theme from the Spring season. The Fall Concert will feature songs from various parts of the United States including: the theme from “New York, New York”, “California Dreamin’”, “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, “The Yellow Rose of Texas”, and a rousing arrangement by David Clydesdale of “the Stars and Stripes Forever”! Of course “Georgia On My Mind” will The Tunnel Rats be included, as well as some other works from American composers. The fall concert would not be complete without some Christmas arrangements North GA’s only REAL FARM TO TABLE Processor Processing Deer This Year to usher in the season as well. Terry Hooper is returning as musical director as well as Suzanne West andCody Killian as accompanists. Deer, Bear, Game Animals The season will culminate with performances on November 20th and 21st. Both will be held at McConnell Baptist Church in Hiawassee, Georgia. The Mountain Commu- The Mars Hill Porch Pickers Taking game 7 days a week until 9 pm • Call if l t ki ater nity Chorus, has been a part of The Tunnel Rats will be Pickers will be singing this - NEW STAFF this community for 52 years. singing this Friday night, Sep- Saturday, September 5th, at It is a welcoming group of tember 4th, at the Old Court- the Old Courthouse. This popsingers from across the region house. They are a unique col- ular bluegrass group is returnwho share a passion for music laboration of individuals from ing for another great concert. different decades, who have These concerts are free Addiction Support come together with a common love of music which depicts and everyone is invited to at- tend. The doors open at 6 PM 6310 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville, GA 30512 Refuge Recovery Meeting: Tuesdays 6:30 PM, 111 the spectrum of experiences and emotions faced by our and the concerts begin at 7 PM. www.Ivylogmeatprocessing.com River Street, Hiawassee, GA; military men and women of all Donations are accepted 706-970-7754. Sponsored by NMZ Church. ages. and appreciated for the upkeep 706-745-0011 The Mars Hill Porch of the old courthouse.
Sports Page 10A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 See the Sports Section at nganews.com Panthers surrender 14-point lead in OT loss at White Co. Union visits Stephens County Friday to face Coach Stowe’s alma mater By Todd Forrest touchdown grab; and Sean Sports Editor Rosa added one reception. sports@nganews.com On the ground, the Pan- thers mustered only 50 yards Cleveland — Union on 26 carries, led by Lynch’s County fell to 0-2 following a 10 rushes for 26 yards. heartbreaking 20-14 overtime “I want to give a special loss at White County, where shout-out to Brandon Lynch the Panthers led 14-0 before the and Alan Godinez,” Stowe said. Warriors stormed back with 20 “They weren’t the only ones unanswered points. but those two were really big “Our kids played very leaders last week and they set hard -- maybe the hardest the tone in practice. they’ve played since I’ve been “I also want to mention here,” Union County head Christiaan Jordan, our backup coach Rob Stowe said. “They sophomore kicker. He did a laid it on the line to the very IDEXORXVMREÀOOLQJLQZLWKWKH last play, and I can’t ask for punting and kicking duties. anything more. I hurt for the Under the circumstances, with kids, and I want it bad for those a wet ball and having to handle kids because I know all the hard some bad snaps, I thought he work they’ve put into it. So I did a fabulous job.” have to believe their harvest is Up next: The Panthers still coming. We just have to visit 0-2 Stephens County, keep working.” which has suffered losses to Senior Chetley Cox got Habersham Central (45-7) and the start at quarterback for the Gilmer (43-28). Kickoff is at injured Kamden Kendrick and 7:30 p.m. Friday. JXLGHG8QLRQWRDSDLURIÀUVW Interestingly, Friday quarter touchdowns, rushing PDUNVWKHÀUVWPHHWLQJEHWZHHQ for one and hitting Jax Dillinger Union County and Stowe’s for the second score. Junior linebacker Micah Wallace returns an interception deep into 6HQLRUTXDUWHUEDFN&KHWOH&R[OHGWKH3DQWKHUVWRDSDLURIÀUVW alma mater. However, the Pan- The Panthers were lim- White County territory, setting up Union County’s second touchdown of TXDUWHUWRXFKGRZQVVFRULQJWKHÀUVWZLWKKLVOHJVDQGDGGLQJDVHFRQG thers did face Toccoa High ited to just 141 yards of offense, WKHÀUVWTXDUWHU3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW WKURXJKWKHDLU3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW School during the 1965 postincluding 91 through the air, on Cox and the offense took over costly penalties. “We practice kept Union County in the game, regulation, sending the game season, losing 41-18. a rainy night in Cleveland, but at their own 23 and immedi- that all the time. It’s crazy be- stopping the Warriors three into overtime. “I’m looking forward to were aided by a Micah Wallace ately faced third-and-14, but cause we had (White County) straight times from inside the “I couldn’t be more it,” Stowe said. “It means a lot interception return to the War- Cox rolled right and hit Mikey backed up and we let them out 10-yard line and eventually SURXGRIWKHÀJKWRIRXUWHDPµ to face my alma mater. I feel riors’ 5-yard line that set up Davis for 23 yards along the with penalties; gave them some IRUFLQJ D PLVVHG ÀHOG JRDO WR Stowe said. “Our players still like part of who I am today is Dillinger’s touchdown catch. Panthers’ sideline. Later in the free yards.” keep the score even early in believe and they know they from growing up in Toccoa. “We had a great week drive, Cox hit Wallace for 15 Right before the break, the fourth. can get this thing going. They “We’re excited about it. of practice and we started off yards on another third-and-long the Panthers’ defense denied a Looking for a late spark know that if they keep playing They’re one of the blue bloods really well,” Stowe said. “We rollout, setting up his 18-yard White County heave to the end with the rain easing up, Moses hard, good things are going to of this area and we know we knew White County has a very quarterback keeper around the zone, and then Haze Burnett entered the game and had the happen.” have our hands full. This is good defensive line, but we right side for a 7-0 lead. blocked a 42-yard field-goal offense moving through the 0RVHVÀQLVKHGWKHJDPH their home opener, and at 0-2, were able to get out ahead and After the offenses traded attempt as time expired in the air, completing three passes to 3 of 8 with 46 yards through the you know they are hungry for we felt like it was going to be punts, White County set up ÀUVWKDOI the White County 34-yard line. air. Cox went 6 of 9 for 45 yards a win.” one of those nights where ev- shop at its own 32 when Wal- “I’m proud of the de- Unfortunately, a holding pen- and a touchdown pass. He also Adding another layer erything goes our way.” lace intercepted a pass over the fense,” Stowe said. “We had a alty negated a 16-yard pass to rushed for 25 yards and a score. to Friday’s matchup, Stowe White County answered middle and returned it 41 yards blocked kick and an intercep- Davis that would have put the Stowe addressed the ZLOOÀQGKLPVHOIRQWKHRSSRwith rushing scores in the sec- to the Warriors’ 5-yard line. tion. In the second half, they Panthers inside the red zone. quarterback situation after site sideline from his nephew, ond and third quarters before Three plays later, the defense kept battling and they gave A second-down sack dropped Cox and Moses split snaps at Stephens County’s starting both teams were held score- bit on Cox’s play fake, and he us a chance by getting us into Union into third-and-30, result- White County. quarterback. less in the fourth. In overtime, found Dillinger all alone in the overtime.” ing in a punt a play later. “We need Chetley on “He’s a very good junior Union County freshman quar- back of the end zone. The third quarter was “I felt like we had a cou- defense and he just gets tired,” quarterback that can sling it a terback Joe Moses was hit from White County got on the spent dealing with wet condi- ple drives going in the second he said. “Sometimes he needs country mile,” he said. “I’m behind in the pocket, resulting board in the second quarter tions under a steady rain that half but we had a huge drop and a break, and Joe is a good quar- very proud of him, he’s a great in a Warriors fumble recovery. with the help of three straight moved over the stadium at a couple of calls made against terback as well. At the end, we kid and I hope he has a good Three plays later, White County offsides penalties against the halftime. The Panthers went us,” Stowe said. “That derailed felt like Joe had the better arm night, but I hope he comes up completed a quick pass along Panthers’ defense, eventually three-and-out on their opening two drives, and right now we’re and we needed to throw the ball on the short end when it’s all the sideline for a 13-yard, WXUQLQJ WKLUGDQG LQWR ÀUVW possession, and White County handcuffed with our youth to have the best chance to win.” said and done Friday.” game-ending touchdown. and-5. The Warriors capped the responded by driving 67 yards because of injuries. We have Davis caught three pass- Injury update: Senior 8QLRQ·VÀUVWVFRUHFDPH 82-yard drive with a 24-yard on 10 plays to even the score to play perfect and we weren’t es for 52 yards; senior Brandon offensive tackle Logan Clason after the defense forced a three- touchdown run. at 14-14. able to do that.” Lynch had two grabs for 17 tore his ACL against Fannin and-out, aided by senior Rob “That’s not being dis- With the offense spin- Neither offense crossed yards; Wallace caught one pass and will require season-ending 7KRPSVRQ·V ÀUVWGRZQ VDFN ciplined,” Stowe said of the ning its wheels, the defense PLGÀHOG IRU WKH UHPDLQGHU RI for 15 yards; Dillinger had one surgery. -XQLRUWLJKWHQG-D['LOOLQJHU DQGIUHVKPDQOLQHPDQ&ROWHQ)RUWHQEHUUFHOHEUDWH'LOOLQJHU·VÀUVWTXDU- WHUWRXFKGRZQWKDWVSRWWHGWKH3DQWKHUVDOHDGEHIRUHWKH3$73KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW ä ä THE WORKS MOTORCRAFT SYNTHETIC BLEND OIL COMPLETE BRAKE SERVICE CHANGE AND MORE Tire Rotation & Pressure Check, Brake BRAKE PADS OR SHOES Inspection, Battery Test, Vehicle Checkup, Fluid MACHINING ROTORS OR DRUMS Top-Off, Filter Check, and Belts & Hoses Check LABOR INCLUDED *UP TO SIX (6) QUARTS OF MOTORCRAFT OIL AND MOTORCRAFT OIL FILTER. 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September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 11A Panthers start new streak with eight straight wins, move to 21-3 By Todd Forrest a 15-1 record but proved no Sports Editor match for Union County, which sports@nganews.com controlled both sets 25-14 and 25-13. One week after its pro- Once again, Sauers domgram-record-tying 10-game inated at the net and the service winning streak came to an OLQHÀQLVKLQJZLWKVHYHQNLOOV end, Union County volleyball DQGÀYHDFHV6RVHQVNKDGVL[ wasted little time starting an- kills and four digs; Beal and other one. Foster had four kills each; and The Panthers rattled off Ekeberg chipped in one kill. eight straight victories last Brown led Union with 18 week, capped by four wins assists and seven aces. Hedden and a championship at Fannin served up two aces, and Davis County’s Rally on the Ridge added one. Combs collected tournament Saturday. nine digs. Union County closes a Panthers 2, Lumpkin remarkable August with a 21-3 County 0 — The Indians enrecord, already good enough tered the weekend with a 10-3 for the second-most wins in mark but couldn’t keep pace program history even if the with Union County, which took season ended today. Along the the straight-set win, 25-19 and way, Union knocked off three 25-18. top-10 teams — Banks County, Sauers continued to deal East Jackson and Franklin the hot hand for Union County, County — during its eight-win pacing her team with nine kills, week, improving to a perfect along with one ace and four 6-0 against ranked opponents digs. Sosensky recorded seven this season. Junior Samantha Combs passed 500 career digs last week at Banks Senior Amie Sauers serves at Fannin County. She ended Saturday’s kills and seven digs; Foster Now, after 24 matches County and is now within reach of the school record. WRXUQHZLWKNLOOVDQGDFHVLQIRXUPDWFKHV3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW ORJJHGÀYHNLOOV DQG(NHEHUJ LQWKHÀUVWPRQWKWKH3DQWKHUV Panthers 2, Commerce looked bleak for the Panthers, Sosensky and Sauers both had added one. Davis ended with ÀQLVKHGZLWKIRXU will open September with a 0 — In the second contest of who trailed 7-2 and 8-3 in the 11, and Brown and Hedden had two aces, while Brown and Brown had 22 assists, relatively light week, with Tuesday’s tri-match at Franklin 15-point set, prompting a time- nine apiece. Sauers had one apiece. two aces and one kill. Combs Tuesday’s trip to Ellijay to face County, the Panthers had little out by coach Megan Brown. During the win, Combs Ekeberg recorded two went for eight digs, two aces Gilmer and Dalton the only trouble with Commerce, win- Later, still trailing 9-4, surpassed 500 digs for her EORFNV DQG %HDO ÀQLVKHG ZLWK and a kill. Beal added a kill, and matches on the schedule. ning 25-18 and 25-13. Foster hammered home three career and enters this week one. Brown handed out 25 Hedden logged six digs. Panthers 2, Franklin Four different Panthers consecutive kills at the net, just eight away from breaking assists and logged seven digs. Panthers 2, Pickens 0 — County 0 — Union County contributed five kills apiece: sparking the late surge. Foster Charlei Robinson’s (Class of Sosensky collected 15 digs; Union dispatched the Dragons traveled to Carnesville on Tues- Beal, Ekeberg, Foster and Sos- scored her fourth straight point 2025) program record of 550. Combs and Sauers had nine in the tournament championday and opened the week with ensky. Sauers ended the match EVWXIÀQJDQDWWDFNDWWKHQHW Panthers 2, East Jack- apiece; and Hedden finished ship by scores of 25-14 and a straight-set win. with four kills, Lyla Price had then Brown dumped one over son 1 — Union County needed with six digs. 25-16. The Panthers needed ex- three and Brown had two. the net, and Hedden followed three sets to topple Class 4A’s Panthers 2, Pickens 1 — Beal and Sauers put away WUD SRLQWV WR VXUYLYH WKH ÀUVW Union County totaled with an ace to put Union on No. 7-ranked East Jackson in Union County entered Saturday seven kills each; Ekeberg had set, 28-26, before holding off nine aces in the two sets, led top 10-9. the second matchup of Thurs- with a target on its back at the six, Sosensky added three, a late Lions rally, 25-21, in by three from Sauers. Combs The Panthers went back day’s tri-match in Homer, win- Rally on the Ridge tournament Foster had two and Price rethe second set for their second and Hedden had two each, to Foster for another point be- QLQJLQWKHÀUVWDQG in Blue Ridge and opened by corded one kill. Sauers paced win of the year over the No. while Davis and Brown chipped IRUH%DQNVÀQDOOVWRSSHGWKH in the deciding set. holding off the Dragons 26-24 Union County with four aces, 3-ranked Lions. in one apiece. Beal topped 6-0 run with consecutive points 'RZQ LQ WKH ÀUVW LQWKHÀUVWVHWDQGLQWKH Brown had two and Combs Senior Amie Sauers led the Panthers with two blocks, to tie things up. Back-to-back set, three straight kills from deciding set after Pickens took notched one. the way for Union County, col- followed by one apiece from points by Sosensky put her team Sauers had the Panthers all the second 25-18. Beal and Ekeberg both lecting six kills, three digs, an Ekeberg and Foster. in front to stay, followed by kills square before the Eagles an- Sauers picked up where logged three blocks; Foster had ace and a block. Emile Ekeberg Brown dished out 26 from Brown and Sauers to end swered to regain the lead at 24- she left off, leading the Panthers two and Sauers had one. KDG ÀYH NLOOV DQG WZR EORFNV assists to go with six digs. the match. 22. But Union County wasn’t ZLWK QLQH NLOOV ÀYH GLJV DQG Sosensky recorded 11 VHQLRU$XVWLQ%HDOÀQLVKHGZLWK Combs and Hedden recorded Foster and Sauers shared done, closing out the set with an ace. Foster logged six kills digs and joined Union County’s four kills and three blocks; and seven digs each; Sauers had the team lead with nine kills four straight points, beginning and three blocks, while Beal 500-dig club alongside Rob- Emry Sosensky recorded three VL[GLJVDQG6RVHQVNÀQLVKHG HDFK ZKLOH 6RVHQVN ÀQLVKHG with another Sauers kill. After recorded six kills to go with inson, Combs and Haley Noe kills, nine digs, an ace and a with three. with six. Beal and Ekeberg had Beal evened the score, Sosen- one block. (Class of 2021). Sosensky is block. Panthers 2, Banks four kills each; Brown had three sky’s kill moved the Panthers 6RVHQVN GHOLYHUHG ÀYH also 25 kills shy of breaking the Senior Sofia Foster County 1 — The Class AA and Hedden added one. Hedden to set point, where Ekeberg kills, 10 digs, a block and an program’s career record held by notched three kills and five No. 10-ranked Leopards gave also led Union County with blasted a shot at the net to close DFH(NHEHUJKDGÀYHNLOOVDQG Reese Jones (Class of 2026). blocks, while Kamryn Brown Union County a scare in Thurs- three aces, while Sauers and it out. two blocks. Brown had 27 as- &RPEVÀQLVKHGZLWK logged two kills, six aces, four day’s trip to Homer, taking the Sosensky had two each. Brown East Jackson took the sists, two kills and two aces. digs in the win over Pickens. digs, a block and 18 assists. first set before the Panthers ended with one ace. second set 25-16. Combs paced Union County Brown ended the match with Other contributors in- rattled off two straight. Brown had 29 assists, Sauers and Sosensky led with 16 digs. DVVLVWVDQGÀYHGLJV cluded Samantha Combs with Banks County took the while Beal, Ekeberg, Foster the way with eight kills each. Panthers 2, Prince Av- Up next: Union County nine digs and an ace, senior opener 25-19, but it was all and Sosensky each recorded a Foster had seven, Beal had four, enue Christian 0 — The Wol- visits Gilmer on Tuesday to Blaire Hedden with three digs, Union County in a 25-16 set- block. In the digs department, Brown and Ekeberg finished verines traveled from Athens meet the Bobcats at 5 p.m. and and Evyn Davis with two digs. two victory. In the third, things Combs led the way with 12, with three kills each, and Price to the mountains Saturday with Dalton High School at 6 p.m. Anthros powers Lady Panthers UCHS Cross Country sweeps team to a pair of Region 7-AAA wins gold at TCEC Jaguar Jungle Run By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com Union County softball bounced back with two region wins last week, taking down Murray County and LaFayette to improve to 3-1 in 7-AAA and move into sole possession of third place ahead of Tuesday’s WULSWRÀUVWSODFH6RQRUDYLOOH After visiting the defending state champs, the Lady Panthers (6-6) return home Thursday to meet an improved Ringgold squad, which is currently tied for fourth in the region standings. Both games begin at 5:30 p.m. Lady Panthers 5, Murray County 0 - Senior Izzy Izzy Anthros is batting .625 with a 1.965 OPS and 15 extra base hits in Anthros delivered one of the JDPHV6KHDOVRVSRUWVD(5$ZLWK.V3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW best all-around performances in program history in Chatsworth 7KH8QLRQ&RXQWJXVZDUPXSDKHDGRIODVWPRQWK·VUDFHDW0HHNV3DUN3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW last Tuesday, belting two home Estefania Alvarez fin- placed 36th in 23:09. runs during a 3-for-3, three-RBI By Todd Forrest Sports Editor ished 33rd in 31:30, followed Finn Lanham finished performance at the plate. She by Madeline Griggs in 42nd at 41st in 23:35, followed by Loalso fired a complete-game sports@nganews.com 34:37, Abigail Willingham in gan Tercero in 44th at 23:43, three-hitter in the circle with a Murphy, NC — Both 43rd at 34:50 and Josie Queen Alexander Lites in 45th at season-high 13 strikeouts and Union County cross country in 45th at 35:49. Lillie Rotko 23:46 and Hillman Elliott in no walks. WHDPVWRRNKRPHÀUVWSODFHDW ÀQLVKHGWKLQ 46th at 23:48. Parker Deal She opened the game last week’s Tri-County Early Maddux Oakey led the placed 48th in 24:00, Corbin with a double and came around College’s Jaguar Jungle Run. ERVZLWKDIRXUWKSODFHÀQLVK Swor was 52nd in 24:04, Daon Stella Collins’ double to give 7KH JLUOV ÀQLVKHG ZLWK in 18:00. Oliver Hillman was YLG7UDQÀQLVKHGWKLQ Union County an early lead. 25 points, defeating Cherokee, ÀIWKLQ IROORZHGE$Q- and Gianni Brown was 57th Anthros homered to center in North Carolina (75 points), drew Nushtayev in seventh at in 24:36. the third before the Lady Pan- Copper Basin, Tennessee (76), 18:21, Ander Faulkner in eighth Ryker Lambert placed thers eventually piled on with Robbinsville, NC (87) and at 18:37 and Noah James Payne 60th in 25:05, followed by Jefthree in the sixth. Towns County (95). In the in ninth at 18:52. frey Carroll in 61st at 25:12. Marlee Cisneros kicked guys’ race, the Panthers tallied Mason Hopple placed *UDVRQ6KDGGHQÀQLVKHGQG off the late onslaught with a 33 points to edge second-place 12th in 19:33, with Nash Tan- in 28:27, and Ethan Parker was one-out walk, followed by a Robbinsville, NC (45). Chero- ner finishing 13th in 20:05. 73rd in 28:37. bunt single from Brie-Ann Poe. kee, NC, was third with 96 Jake Payne was 17th in 20:34, Union County Middle $VDFULÀFHÁIURPVHQLRU(OOD Junior Addison Whitener is also off to a hot start, hitting .412 with a points, followed by Hiwassee $GHQ:HDYHUÀQLVKHG WKLQ School also competed, with the Akins brought home Cisneros 236DQGWZRKRPHUV3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW Dam, NC (108), Swain County, 20:36 and Eli Baker was 20th ERV ÀQLVKLQJ IRXUWK DQG WKH before Anthros followed with in another complete-game per- Whitener also walked NC (122), Summit Charter, NC in 20:38. girls sixth. Miles Sturgeon led a two-run bomb. formance, allowing six hits and during a 1-for-3 day. Stover and (156), Towns County (197) and Cody Dupuis placed 23rd the Panthers with a fourth-place Anthros struck out the two walks. At the plate, she &LVQHURVHDFKÀQLVKHGIRU Nantahala, NC (206). in 21:10, followed by Cole finish, while Eliza Colwell side in the sixth and worked doubled twice, took a pair of while Poe and Akins went 2 for Union County turned in Brown in 26th at 21:35 and ÀQLVKHGWKLQWKHJLUOVUDFH around a leadoff single in the walks and drove in a run. 3 with one RBI apiece. a number of strong individual James Neumiller in 27th at seventh to close out her sixth After stranding two in win of the year. VFRULQJSRVLWLRQLQWKHÀUVWWKH Makaylin Bingham had two steals; Cisneros, Davis and performances, with four Pan- :DWW*RGGDUGÀQLVKHG WKHUVÀQLVKLQJLQVLGHWKHWRS 31st in 22:29, while Sylis Flaim Learn to 8QLRQ ÀQLVKHG ZLWK Lady Panthers scored twice Whitener added one each. LQWKHJLUOVUDFHDQGÀYHGRLQJ was 33rd in 22:50 and Ean King Play Pickleball hits on the day, including a in the second when Cisneros Lumpkin County 10, so in the boys race. The Blairsville Pickle- 3-for-3 performance from Ad- reached on an infield single Lady Panthers 2 (5 innings) On the girls’ side, Neva dison Whitener. Collins ended and Akins and Anthros fol- - Union began the week with a Brott led Union County with Mountain High ball Club, in conjunction with the Union County Rec Dept., the day 2 for 4 with a pair of doubles, while senior Jules lowed with consecutive two-out doubles. Monday trip to Dahlonega, al- DIRXUWKSODFHÀQLVKLQ Hikers Schedule holds free beginning pickleball ORZLQJUXQVLQDOOÀYHLQQLQJV Tessa Schurter followed in Mountain High Hikers classes every Tuesday evening Dyer and Ava Stover added In the fourth, Whitener including a six-run third. sixth at 25:00, while Macy offers three hikes in the local at 6 PM, weather permitting. base hits in the victory. Dyer doubled in a run after Poe led Anthros and Whitener Payne placed eighth in 25:19 area each week: Tuesdays - a Classes will continue and Poe stole a base. off with a base hit and Anthros each homered in the fourth, DQG*UDFH:ULJKWÀQLVKHGWK long hike from 8-14 miles and through Oct. 27. No registra- Lady Panthers 5, La- walked with one away. Later in accounting for their team’s two at 25:47. Kate Barrett rounded a shorter hike of 5-8 miles. tion is required, and all required Fayette 1 - Union County the inning, freshman courtesy hits on the day. Lexi Davenport RXWWKH3DQWKHUV·WRSÀYHLQWK Thursday we lead a leisure hike equipment is provided. Please delivered another 11-hit perfor- runner Arlee Davis stole home also worked a one-out walk in at 25:54. usually around 5 miles. We wear sneakers, no crocs, slides, PDQFHZKLOHVZLSLQJÀYHEDJV to mount a 4-0 lead. the fourth inning. Julia Adams finished also maintain over 100 miles HWF &HUWLÀHG LQVWUXFWRUV ZLOO in last Thursday’s region win. Cisneros tripled in the Collins and Davenport 13th in 26:10, followed by of trails in North Georgia and teach the classes, and all ages The 6-9 spots in the order ÀIWKDQGFDPHKRPHRQ3RH·V saw action in the circle, com- Kate Hoffman in 18th at 27:54 Western NC area and run trail are welcome! The classes will accounted for eight of Union’s LQÀHOGKLW ELQLQJWRJLYHXSÀYHKLWVZDON and Arianna Whalen in 22nd at maintenance hikes on Thurs- take place at the outdoor courts hits, with Stover, Cisneros, The Colts got on the seven and hit four batters, while 28:58. Ava Irvin placed 28th in days each week. For more in- at the Union County Pickleball Poe and Akins recording two board in the seventh via three their defense committed three 30:20, while Macy Oakey was formation visit http://www. Complex at 108 Chase Drive. each. Anthros struck out seven straight one-out singles. errors behind them. 29th in 30:22. mountainhighhikers.org. (Next to the Rec Center).
Page 12A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Marine Corps League Auxiliary Gains Georgia Peaches E2H6 SAVE F:6 THE 52F6 DATE YOUNG HARRIS COLLEGE 24 YHC NIGHT AT ACOUSTIC SUNSETS Registration Required (L-R): Barbara Howard (GP), Tammy Coleman (GP), Claudia Entwisle (GP), Mike Francis (Sr. Vice Chief Devil Dog of the MODD), Lisa Delk SEPT. 6 P.M. BIT.LY/YHCSUNSETS (MCL Dept. of GA Commandant and GP), Jody Foster (GP), Angie Pitts (MCLA National Assist. Chaplain and GP) and Brandy Creel (GP) HAMILTON GARDENS While many already law, aunts, nieces, mothers- IRUORFDOGHWDFKPHQWPHPEHUV WHQGWRWUDQVLWLRQWKLVLQLWLDWLYH 26 know of the Marine Corps in-law, and sisters-in-law of within the Military Order of into a quarterly donation pro- /HDJXH VRPH PLJKW QRW EH Marines or Fleet Marine Force WKH 'HYLO 'RJV WKH IXQ DQG JUDP EDFNHG E D GHGLFDWHG ARTHUR & FRIENDS MAKE DZDUHRILWVDIÀOLDWHRUJDQL]Dtion, the Marine Corps League Corpsmen, as well as Women 0DULQHV YHWHUDQ UHVHUYH RU honor society of the Marine SXEOLF$PD]RQ:LVKOLVW Corps League. Additionally, So, how can one meet A MUSICAL Free Childrens Play Auxiliary. The MCLA was DFWLYH GXW ,I DQ LQWHUHVWHG YROXQWHHUVKDYHVWHSSHGXSWR WKH *HRUJLD 3HDFKHV" $UHD chartered in 1937 and its mis- SHUVRQ GRHVQ·W KDYH D 0DULQH DVVLVWDWWKH<RXQJ+DUULV&RO- residents can meet unit mem- SEPT. 2 P.M. YHC CAMPUS CLEGG FINE ARTS BUILDING VLRQ LV WR VHUYH DV D VXSSRUW UHODWLYHVKHFDQMRLQDVDQ$V- OHJH &DPSXV &XSERDUG )RRG EHUV DW WKHLU XSFRPLQJ ´6HPorganization to Marine Corps VRFLDWHPHPEHU Pantry. SHU)L6ZHHWVµRXWUHDFKERRWK 26 /HDJXH GHWDFKPHQWV E DLG- This month the Georgia The unit’s largest sig- during the Tractor Supply LQJ YHWHUDQV WKHLU IDPLOLHV Peaches are launching a major QDWXUH LQLWLDWLYH WR GDWH LV LWV Farmers’ Market on Saturday, POPS ON THE PATIO and community programs. Ad- UHFUXLWPHQW GULYH KLJKOLJKW- “For Goodness Cake” project. 6HSWHPEHUWK7KHWDEOHZLOO Free event featuring the YHC ditionally, one of the MCLA’s LQJ LWV UHFHQW JUDVVURRWV YHW- Through this resourcefulness IHDWXUH EDNHG WUHDWV LQIRUPD- Concert Band newest units, the Georgia 3HDFKHV RIÀFLDOO UHFHLYHG eran and community support LQLWLDWLYHV ULJKW KHUH LQ 1RUWK WKH 3HDFKHV KDYH DVVHPEOHG tion on how to join the organi- DQG GLVWULEXWHG PRUH WKDQ zation and options for support- SEPT. 5:30 P.M. YHC CAMPUS its charter this past May dur- Georgia. According to Tammy ELUWKGD FDNH NLWV WR OR- LQJ WKHLU ORFDO LQLWLDWLYHV )RU ing the MCL Department of Coleman, the unit’s Senior cal families through outreach more information, residents 17 PURPLE AND WHITE DAY *HRUJLD·V DQQXDO FRQYHQWLRQ Vice President, “Our purpose programs such as the Towns FDQ YLVLW WKH JURXS·V )DFHin Peachtree City. is to work with our local Ma- County Food Pantry, the Ecu- ERRNSDJHDW´0&/$*HRUJLD Currently, the Georgia rine Corps League Detach- menical Food Pantry, the Hope 3HDFKHVµRUDFFHVVWKHLUZHE- Prospective students - come visit Peaches operate as a state- PHQW VHUYH YHWHUDQV LQ RXU &HQWHUDQGWKH<+&&DPSXV VLWHDWZZZXQLFRLPFORUJ us! wide organization and meet community, and support chil- &XSERDUG7KHNLWVFRPHFRP- mcl-auxiliary. OTOBER 9:30 A.M. YHC CAMPUS ERWK UHPRWHO DQG LQ SHUVRQ dren in need.” plete with cake mix, frosting, 3URVSHFWLYH PHPEHUV DV 5HJXODU PHPEHUV LQFOXGH /RFDO YROXQWHHU HIIRUWV D FDQ RI VRGD LQ OLHX RI RLO well as potential donors can also LEARN MORE @ YHC.EDU ZLYHVZLGRZVPRWKHUVVWHS- KDYHTXLFNOUDPSHGXSVLQFH ELUWKGD FDQGOHV DQG GHFRUD- directly reach Senior Vice Presimothers, sisters, daughters, the unit was chartered. Mem- tions, all packaged in an alu- GHQW7DPP&ROHPDQYLDHPDLO stepdaughters, grandmothers, EHUV UHFHQWO KRVWHG D PLOH- minum cake pan. Looking at tcoleman0419@gmail.com. granddaughters, daughters-in- VWRQH DGYDQFHPHQW UHFHSWLRQ ahead, the Georgia Peaches in- The Union County Historical Society Presents: Rah, Rah Sis, Boom, Bah! By Joan Hawley Drake Union Co. Historical Society This classic college FKHHU GDWHV EDFN WR “Sis” mimics the sound of a ULVLQJ VNURFNHW ´ERRPµ WKH explosion, and the “rah” is the shouting of the crowd. It EHFDPH D VWDSOH RI $PHULFDQ high school and collegiate FKHHUOHDGLQJEWKH V2Uganized “chanting” or “cheer- LQJµ EHJDQ DW 3ULQFHWRQ 8QL- YHUVLW GXULQJ IRRWEDOO DQG EDVHEDOO VHDVRQV ZLWK PDOH cheerleaders who encouraged WKHFROOHJHWHDPVWRYLFWRU Here at the Old Courthouse Museum there are old HDUERRNVVKRZLQJWKHRULJLnal cheerleaders from Union County High School dating EDFN WR WKH HDUO V 2XU predecessors’ zealous claps, chants and sayings can only EH KHDUG LQ RXU LPDJLQDWLRQ glancing through these pages, KRZHYHU WKHLU OHJDF FRPHV to life at our local High School and Middle School games, during the appropriate seasons. Go Panthers! A large glass showcase housed in one of our military A local sports history display at the Old Courthouse Museum in URRPV GRHVQ·W KDYH DQ YLQ- Downtown Blairsville WDJHSRPSRPVRQGLVSODEXW team “Canal Lake,” including a Society has worked so hard on ZH GR KDYH FRORUIXO ´PHPR- uniform and picture of its team. VLQFH WRSUHVHUYHWKHOHJ- UDELOLDµ WKDW LQFOXGHV WURSKLHV So come on in, we are acy and history here in Blairs- PLWWV EDWV DQG EDOOV DQG SLF- RSHQ GDLO DQG ´JLYH XV D YLOOH $IWHU DOO ´:H PD EH WXUHV GDWLQJ EDFN WR WKH HDUO cheer” for the great work that ROGEXWRXPLJKWOHDUQVRPH- VVWDUWLQJZLWKWKHEDVHEDOO the Union County Historical WKLQJQHZµ<D´*R7HDPµ Join the Blairsville Cruisers for fun weekend! gines for a great cause! Join %DWWHULHV 3OXV LQ %ODLUVYLOOH Crafters and Vendors WKH %ODLUVYLOOH &UXLVHUV IRU D 7LFNHWVDUHDOVRDYDLODEOHIURP special Car Show at the Union DQ FOXE PHPEHU DQG DW DOO County Nursing Home on Sun- OLYHHYHQWV GD 6HSWHPEHU IURP 30 &UXLVLQJ IRU D &DXVH WANTED to 4 PM. Come out to enjoy (YHU WLFNHW VHUYHV D KLJKHU VRPHEHDXWLIXOFODVVLFFDUVDQG purpose. Since 2007, The EULQJVRPHMRWRWKHUHVLGHQWV %ODLUVYLOOH &UXLVHUV KDYH First, come out and sup- We can’t wait to see you there! UDLVHG DQ DYHUDJH RI SRUW WKH %ODLUVYLOOH &UXLVHUV /RFDWLRQ 1XUVLQJ +RPH annually to support local chilat the Union County Farm- &LUFOH%ODLUVYLOOH*$ GUHQ DQG YHWHUDQV 3URFHHGV ers Market on Saturday, Sep- Win Big with the 2006 IXQGYLWDOSURJUDPVOLNH´6KRS WHPEHU WK IURP 30 WR 5DIÁH 7UXFN 7KLV HDU·V with a Cruiser,” “Shop with a for t he PM! It’s time for our regular UDIÁH IHDWXUHV D SULVWLQH Cop,” and “Shop with a Hero,” &UXLVH,Q6ZDS 0HHW SDFNHG Ford Ranger FX4 with less ensuring no child goes without with awesome cars, exciting GRRUSUL]HVDUDIÁHDQG trophies. Bring your appetite, EHFDXVH ZH·OO EH JULOOLQJ XS IUHVK EXUJHUV KRW GRJV DQG than 20,000 original miles. For during the holidays. Addition- a $10 donation, tickets now DOO WKH FOXE DZDUGV WKUHH RIIHU WKUHH FKDQFHV WR ZLQ annual scholarships to local *UDQG3UL]H 7KH)RUG5DQJHU technical and trade school stu- ); 25 &DVK 6HF- dents. In d i a n sausage hoagies for sale, plus VHOOLQJ GHOLFLRXV &KLFNÀO$ chicken sandwiches. We can’t RQG3UL]H &DVK 7KLUG 3UL]H &DVK 7KH %ODLUVYLOOH &UXLVHUV LVD F QRQSURÀWRUJD- +RZ WR (QWHU %XLQJ nization dedicated to the pres- m m e r wait to see you there for an afternoon of cars, food, and fun! Please note that show cars are QRWDEOHWRHQWHUEHIRUHPM. WLFNHWVLVHDVLHUWKDQHYHU3XU- HUYDWLRQRIFODVVLFDXWRPRWLYH FKDVH RQOLQH DW %ODLUVYLOOH&- culture and the support of chil- UXLVHUVFRP YLD FUHGLWGHELW dren and Veterans in Union, FDUG RU YLVLW ORFDO SDUWQHUV Towns, Clay and Cherokee Su 7KHQ UHY XS RXU HQ- United Community Bank and counties. Fest i v a l October 3rd and October 4th Deadline September 19th 706-973-0289
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Page 2B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Dolly Parton’s Georgia Connection September Garden Chores from your – and the Literacy Fight She Leaves Behind Master Gardener Extension Volunteers In case you’ve driven ty, Tennessee — famous, of Trees and Shrubs - Gar- next spring before planting. area. Fertilize bulbs when you through Georgia recently and course, for being both Dolly’s Chris Denson dening lore says plant trees, Clean up your vegetable plant them because it is hard to wondered why the flags were home county and the site of shrubs, and perennials in garden space to decrease your locate them until they come up at half-staff, they’re in honor Dollywood. Director of Policy & months which have the let- pest problems next season. Dig next spring. of Dolly Parton. In a 2018 interview with Research for the ter “r” in their names – Sep- sweet potatoes before frost. To Edge and weed existing While Dolly — “Mrs. National Public Radio, she ex- Georgia Public tember, October, November, keep weed seeds from blow- perennial beds. Use a granular Parton” feels like something plained that the program was a Policy Foundation December, January, February, ing into your cultivated garden weed-preventer (following labetter reserved for the pages way to honor her father. March, April. area, keep turf surrounding bel directions) to reduce winof the New York Times — “Well, my dad, as all Earlier this year, the Fertilize roses one last your garden mowed, direct- ter weeds and apply mulch. was most associated with the my people, are very country Georgia Council on Literacy time for the season so they will ing grass clippings away from Plant your pansies and violas Smoky Mountains of East people, mountain people, and reported that a majority of have time to slow down their your garden area. Do not apply as the weather cools. Remove Tennessee, she married her my dad’s from a very large Georgia’s third graders, 62%, growth before cold weather pesticides when temperatures faded blooms from pansies husband in the northwest family. And as it was back in are not reading proficiently. arrives. Azaleas and rhodo- exceed 85 degrees or when it to keep them blooming and Georgia city of Ringgold in the mountains like that, a lot Students who fall be- dendrons are forming flower is windy. healthy. 1966. As stated in the gover- of kids had to work the fields hind in reading that early are buds now for next year so keep Flowerbeds - Autumn Lawns - Fertilize fesnor’s executive order lowering and had to help feed the rest of far less likely to graduate from these plants watered to insure is a good time to add peren- cue lawns following label the flags, the name reminded the family. So my dad did not high school. Sadly, Georgia’s good bud formation and flow- nials, trees and shrubs to your instructions. Rake up fallen her of “rings of gold,” and she get a chance to go to school, literacy rate is roughly in line ers next spring. garden. Plant fall blooming leaves and add them to your considered this a good omen and Daddy couldn’t read and with the national average, Mulch trees and shrubs perennials such as aster, chry- compost pile to create a rich for her marriage; she was write, and that was kind of highlighting the depth of this to protect your plants from santhemum, goldenrod and soil amendment. If you do not married to Carl Thomas Dean crippling to him.” problem nationwide. temperature extremes and to black-eyed Susan for fall col- have a compost pile, start one. for nearly 59 years before his Her father, who died in The General Assembly keep the soil evenly moist. or. Perennials perform better Soil Test - Have your death in 2025. 2000, lived long enough to see has spent several years working Keep mulch back 3 inches in soil that drains well. When soil tested. Stop by your lo- It’s fair to say that bond the program spread beyond the to address literacy rates. That from the trunk to prevent dam- digging beds this fall, add cal Extension Office for a soil was matched by the public’s sen- borders of Sevier County. That effort culminated this year in age and disease. Do not prune compost and soil conditioners testing bag and instructions. timent toward her. She earned same year, the Imagination the passage of House Bill 1193, or fertilize trees and shrubs to help with drainage. Houseplants - Lightly that rarest of honors for those in Library began its expansion the Georgia Early Literacy Act now. Pruning and fertilizing For good selections, trim and check your house- will stimulate new growth that purchase daffodil, tulip, hya- plants that have spent the sumpublic life: “no one ever had a into a nationwide program — of 2026. The legislation ex- could be hurt as temperatures cinth and other spring bloom- mer on your patio for insects bad word to say about her.” a milestone Dolly said meant pands the use of literacy coach- drop. Replace mulch under ing bulbs as they arrive at your and disease and if necessary, But this is a column everything to him. es in every school with chil- trees and shrubs to prevent dis- nursery. Store in a cool area treat them (following label diabout the intersection of Geor- “He got to hear the kids dren from kindergarten through eases on next year’s foliage. and plant in October when soil rections) before moving them gia public policy and our daily call me The Book Lady. He third grade. It also strengthens Vegetables - Plant a fall temperatures are in the 60’s or inside for the winter. lives, and for that, she did her got a big kick out of that. But direction around early reading garden: sow seeds/transplant cooler. Fertilize chrysanthe- Take cuttings of coleus best to address an issue that he took great pride and felt instruction and pushes earlier seedlings of mustard, spinach, mums now for lots of blooms and geraniums to grow inside still requires attention today: like he had helped do some- identification of students who turnips, beets, carrots, kale, this fall. Divide overcrowded until next spring. Root leaves improving childhood literacy. thing special.” are falling behind. radishes, broccoli, lettuce, on- groundcovers like ajuga and of African violet plants to give In the days after her By 2006, the Imagina- Addressing ongoing ions, collards, and cabbage. liriope and overgrown clumps as Christmas gifts. death, many people have tion Library had opened its and systemic issues like child- Plant garlic now for harvest of daylily, iris and coneflower Miscellaneous - Begin rushed to acknowledge how first international program, in hood literacy will require col- next summer. this month. collecting dried materials for much they benefitted from Canada, and now includes the laboration from the public and Cover crops like annual Not all spring flowering fall and winter arrangements her Imagination Library, a United Kingdom, Australia private sectors alike. But one rye, buckwheat and crimson bulbs bloom at the same time; and decorations. program that provides books and the Republic of Ireland. woman from East Tennessee clover planted in unused areas check varieties and bloom Jo Anne Allen free of charge to children from That global reach is a did her best; at the time of of your garden help hold the times. For early color, “Early Master Gardener birth until age five. testament to how universal the her death, the Imagination Li- soil in place and add organic Sensation” is a daffodil variety Extension Volunteer The program began in need is — and the numbers brary had provided more than matter when tilled into the soil that blooms in January in our (706) 400-8139 1995, distributing books only back home show just how far 300 million books to children N(Sep2,Z4)CA to children in Sevier Coun- there still is to go. around the world. NT(Sep2,Z20)CA Whiskers Project The Ability Connection: You Count Too… My Words of Wisdom “Helping tion. Here goes… lines whose designs prompt Be positive and realistic, communication with them and Community Cats” ask for help and take a break. their children. If you need to, leave the room, For me, the best laid Every since 2003, surrender rates to lessen the your child will survive. Be plans took a detour. This made Whiskers Project has been a intake at local shelters. Our part of a support group. Get me step back and appreciate dominate force in reducing the Mission is to prevent the over- homeless outdoor cat popula- population of homeless kit- involved in local or state poli- the flow of life and its chang- tion through Trap, Neuter, Re- tens. Follow us on Facebook, tics. Find your passion, write, es. It’s been an eye opener turn. The phone calls for help our website whiskersproject. By attaching feelings to read, paint, draw, build, deco- and very positive. So, grab from Blairsville and Hiawassee org, email info@whiskersprostories and events, we help our rate, exercise, eat well and stay a pencil, paper, or use your cat caretakers are daily. Our ject.org and 1-888-872-9330. children express their emo- hydrated, have a date night, computer or phone and write funds are limited and we need Your kindness is greatly aptions and use their coping skills and do lunch with friends. your amazing thoughts. Read financial help to get to the end preciated. NT(Sep2,Z3)CA to navigate their environment. Reconnect with other special it often and share it with oth- of the cat list by year end. My strengths and coping skills needs parents or parents of ers if you like. You might sur- Our program has alcome into play when I con- typical children. We all have prise yourself, as it may lead ready spayed and neutered nect with my son’s homelife, something to contribute. Use you to a new talent, lifestyle or over a hundred cats this year. jobs and social activities. As humor, find patience and don’t job. You are stronger than you Everyone meet Sammy, The program is not a Free proparents, we do an amazing beat yourself up when you think. Remember, we are all he is a super sweet 1-year-old gram and donations for our job being role models for our have a day that goes sideways. in this together. So, relax and mixed breed who weighs only services are smaller than the children and the community. Feel joy in taking baby steps enjoy the ride, because it’s all about 23 pounds—and that’s Vet cost. Our program is first That being said, it’s time to for you and your child, look good! his full-grown size! He’s the come, first serve. There are put our kids on the shelf for up instead of down as some For more information perfect little size for just about many cats standing by waiting a few and praise ourselves. parents and children are expe- about the Ability Connection, any family. Sammy has such to get sterilized. Your help is There is nothing wrong with riencing health issues needing visit our Facebook Group, a wonderful personality. He needed now. Whiskers Project giving yourself a pat on the constant attention. Special Needs Families in would make an amazing com- is a private nonprofit organizaback as well as taking compli- On that note, be grate- Union County. panion for a family looking for tion, 501(c)3 and funding is ments from others. You are be- ful that you enjoy good health, Submitted by Lisa Kramer a smaller dog with a big heart. supported by the public. Your ing admired for your parenting your life experiences, and by tax deductible donation can skills. Your lifestyle says it all, all means, say thank you when Bell Ringing Union be made online, www.whisand your journey is rich with someone wants to learn from County Old Courthouse kersproject.org or by mailing joy and laughter. You need to you. In fact, you should take a check payable to Whiskers find it and celebrate both the a step back to see how your Project, PO Box 575, Blairseasy and difficult times. Take child relates to someone else. ville, GA 30514. If you can joy in the baby steps and look Feeling blue? Become help Spay or Neuter one cat in Meet Bowie! At 6-8 up instead of down. Progress a rainbow of colors by splurg- the Community to help others months old and 30 lbs, Bowie is just that, from point A to B. ing on your favorite dessert, a that cannot afford a donation, is house trained, and he loves Here is my mantra when movie or give yourself a long $50 or $100 per cat would be to play with other dogs. His I get overwhelmed with life. It walk or run. Have older chil- greatly appreciated. personality makes him a joy to speaks volumes to the extraor- dren? Let them hold down the If you want to help in have around as he’s the ideal dinary parenting I do. I ramble fort. They are part of the fam- other ways, cat food donations blend of smart, loyal, and lovon a bit, but like you, there is ily. In my travels, I have met can be made through Chewy. ing. Bowie’s vaccinations, meaning in all the different extraordinary parents who are com on our Wish List for microchip, and neuter are all Meet Johnny, he is an Whiskers Project. Volunteers “hats” I wear. Remember the now authors, sharing their sto- absolutely precious orange covered; he’ll be ready to start messages I tell myself that are ries online and in bookstores. Bell ringing information are needed for trapping, fos- his new life with you fully at 706-745-5493 kitten, about 5 months old and tering, fund raising and grant powerful and lead me to ac- Others have posted clothing weighing around 3.8 pounds. prepared. Come meet Bowie writing. Please let your local at the Heritage Festival this Johnny is super loving and has Commissioners know we need the best laid-back personality. weekend! POSITION AVAILABLE financial grants from their He’s a relaxed, go-with-the- county budgets to help us so flow kind of cat who is per- Water Treatment Plant Operator-Trainee fectly happy soaking up love we can help you with spaying and neutering. No more litters, and enjoying life. no more homeless animals. The City of Blairsville is currently accepting applications for a full time Mountain Shelter Hu- This will serve the public and mane Society: Monday–Sat- help the many homeless kitten Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee for the Water Treatment Plant. urday, 9 AM–4 PM. NT(Sep2,Z11)CA Essential Duties and Responsibilities --- The water treatment plant operator must exercise independent judgment for routine and non-routine operation of Pets a surface water treatment plant and for production of drinking water that meets or exceeds the parameters of regulatory agencies (EPA and EPD). Operator of the also must follow established plant operational procedures. Duties include but are not limited to the performance of quality control testing procedures; mea- Week Poppy, a 2 year old tab- suring and adjusting chemical feed rates; operating and monitoring pumps; Meet Allie, she is all by, is a gentle girl who blos- operating filtration units; monitoring consumer water usage and adjusting dis- vetted and ready to go. She soms into a wonderful com- had her left eye removed and panion when given patience. tribution system control equipment accordingly to maintain necessary tank can’t drive for NASCAR any- When safe, her playful, curi- levels while meeting the demand. This employee will maintain chemical inven- more but she’s now full of ous side comes out, and she tories, plant operation reports, and assist with mechanical work and routine energy and ready to start her loves keeping you company. new chapter! This 1 and a half She is FIV+, which means she equipment, and other facility maintenance as well as collect water samples. The year old wants to be your one can live a long, happy, healthy new hire must be able to obtain a class III Georgia state surface water opera- and only, your ride or die, your See all our critters at indoor life—she just needs to tor’s certification within nine months of hire date. The water treatment plant BFF for life! NT(Sep2,Z10)CA www.castoffpetrescue.org. be an only cat or live with oth- er FIV+ feline friends. She’s operator must have mechanical aptitude and good communications skills. The spayed, fully vaccinated, and physical duties include but are not limited to walking, reaching, climbing stairs ready to bring soft comfort to and ladders, standing for long periods and lifting 50 lbs. or more. Also must be a forever home! A p p l y h e r e : w w w. able to deal with heights and enclosed spaces and be able to operate a fire hose. safepetproject.org/adoption- Shifts are typically 8-12 hours and will vary due to demand. Operator must be agreement or call 706-400-7076 able to work nights, weekends, holidays and overtime when necessary. ext. 2. NT(Sep2,Z22)CA Minimum Qualifications --- High school diploma or GED; possess a valid $ CASH 4 $ Georgia driver’s license; must pass a drug test and have a satisfactory motor $ $ vehicle record as well as have your own transportation to work. $ COINS, $ $ $ $ SILVER $ $ $ The city offers excellent benefits and paid time off. Applications can be picked up at City Hall, 62 Blue Ridge Street $ & COSTUME $ $ $ or online at www.blairsville-ga.gov and can be dropped off at City Hall $ JEWELRY $ or mailed to PO Box 307, Blairsville, GA 30514. $ Labosco’s at the $ Applications will be accepted until position is filled. $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ Questions regarding position can be directed to Mayor or City Clerk at 706-745-2000. $ $ The City of Blairsville is an equal opportunity employer. $ 706-745-0097 $ CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING!
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3B James Hammond missing; American Legion Post 121 focuses on Suicide Awareness last seen in Fannin County suicide, the person commit- oldest and most influential engaged in the community The Georgia Emergen- ting suicide doesn’t actually of all veterans’ organizations and establish strong bonds cy Management Agency and want to die. They want to be worldwide and devotes itself with fellow Vets. The Auxil- Homeland Security issued noticed, or heard, or helped to mutual helpfulness, mentor- iary, for spouses, daughters, a MISSING PERSON Alert and they just don’t feel as if ing youth, advocating patriotic and mothers of Veterans, will over the weekend for James anyone cares. BE THE ONE. honor, promoting strong na- begin its meeting at 6:30 PM Hammond, 40 years old, white Be the one to care, stop and tional security, and continued in the same building on the male, 195 Ibs, brown hair, listen. Look at the eyes when devotion to fellow service same day and the Sons of the wearing a black T-shirt and the answer “I’m fine” is given members and veterans. American Legion meet at 5 khaki shorts. and probe further. Be the one All members, and in- PM. Additionally, the Legion Hammond was last to ask if they are thinking terested veterans, are encour- Riders will have their meeting seen Friday, Aug. 28, heading about hurting themselves. aged to attend our meetings on the 2nd Tuesday of each southbound ON FOOT on GA Did you know that more Active Duty Military and Vet- We ask a lot in this on the third Tuesday of every month at 6 PM. HWY 60 in Fannin County, country of those that raise month at 6:30 PM. The next For more information and may be en route to Cobb erans have committed sui- cide since the attacks on 9/11 their hands and swear an oath meeting at the Leon Dav- on the meeting or any Post County. to protect the “Constitution of enport Veterans Center, 78 activities email the Post at al- People are asked to call than in the actual conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq? Did the United States from all en- Blue Ridge Street is on 15 post121@gmail.com or visit 911 with information about his emies, foreign and domestic.” Sep 2026; just drop in. It’s a the website at legionpost121. location. James Hammond you read that? More military and veteran deaths through Is it too much to ask for you to great opportunity to become org. suicide than in combat op- BE THE ONE. erations. Said another way, Blairsville is one of the Masonic Union County Jail 22 suicides a day across this fastest growing areas in the Arrest/Booking Report country are committed by Ac- state of Georgia for veter- Presidents tive Duty Miliary or Veterans ans. Pay attention. Ask. Help. of the Shawn Dyer, Union County Sheriff Send them to the American ... every day. Sad. Legion. If you are a Veteran United States The bravest amongst 08/29/26 Mariah Kiley Caputo-Sullivan, age 21, Atlanta, GA us are committing suicide at and you feel lost, miss the of America DUI-drugs less safe a higher rate than their peers brotherhood, lack a mission, across this nation. And it hits miss the common language; Masonic Presidents - George Washington 08/25/26 Christopher Javier Cobb, age 39, Greenville, SC Driving while license suspended/revoked, obey close to home. You wouldn’t seek us out. We are here and George Washington, the As a General, he attend- traffic control devise (stop sign), failure to think that Blairsville, a tight, we are your brothers and sis- first President of the United ed Masonic celebrations and small, patriotic community ters, we’ve served in Korea, States, is often referred to as religious observances in New maintain lane like ours, would suffer this Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq the Father of His Country for York, New Jersey, and Penn- 08/28/26 Brock Daniel Flowers, age 18, Blue Ridge, GA fate, and yet we did. Just last and everywhere in between. his pivotal role in securing sylvania. He also supported Hold for Fannin County We’ve served 4, 6, 8, 26 or American independence and the formation of regimental 08/24/26 Rebecca Lindsey Gaylord, age 40, Blairsville, GA week, we lost another. There 36 years, some are still serv- establishing the foundations of Masonic lodges within the Theft by taking, forgery 3rd degree $1500 or more, is much speculation as to the ing through the Reserves or the nation. army. In 1791, during his first forgery 4th degree less than $1500 (3 counts) reasons this Veteran took his the Guard. We are Army, Air Leading the Continen- inauguration, Brother Wash- 08/24/26 Donald Andrew Henderson, age 49, Lula, GA life, but you cannot know the tal Army to victory during the ington took his oath of office Force, Navy, Marines and Illegal possession of controlled substance, poss of answer unless you walked in Coast Guard …we are you. Revolutionary War and guid- on a Bible from St. John’s controlled substance (2 counts), possession of his shoes. ing the fledgling republic as its Lodge in New York and wel- This is why the Ameri- Don’t suffer in silence, don’t drug related objects, prescription drugs must be pull the “stoic military guy” first President, Brother Wash- comed Masonic delegations in their original container(s) can Legion focuses on our Be ington set a precedent of lead- from several states throughout The One program. In this pro- persona; that doesn’t work 08/24/26 David Allen Littiken, age 47, East Point, GA and you know it. We want ership, integrity, and service his presidency. Illegal possession of controlled substance (2 gram, we try not to focus on that endures to this day. He later presided over suicide. We focus on being the to BE THE ONE for you so counts), poss of controlled substance, possession come out and join us. Brother Washington’s con- the cornerstone-laying cer- of drug related objects, prescription drugs must be one who notices when some- We invite the communi- nection to Freemasonry began emony for the U.S. Capitol in in their original container(s), no proof of insurance, one is down. We focus on be- ty to join us on World Suicide early in his life. In 1752, at 1793, donning his Masonic re- failure to maintain lane, cracked windshield, seat ing the one who asks if you just 20 years old, he became a galia for the historic occasion. are okay. We focus on being Prevention Day on 10 Sep to belt violation walk 2.2 miles for the 22 that Master Mason in Fredericks- He also became the charter 08/24/26 Perry Evens McVay, age 48, Blairsville, GA the one who intervenes when burg, Virginia, paying only 2 Master of Alexandria Lodge it looks like things are getting take their lives daily. Come Driving while license suspended/revoked support us as we support and pounds and 3 shillings for the № 22, sat for a portrait in his 08/27/26 Robert Lennard Meyer, age 61, Murphy, NC tough for a fellow Veteran. privilege. The following year, Masonic regalia, and, upon his Be The One is about stopping remember them. Please watch Terroristic threats and acts, aggressive driving, for details and let’s show how he was raised to the second passing in 1799, was buried illegal stop/stand/park where prohibited suicide from ever happening. and third degrees at the same with full Masonic honors. Typically, if there is such a strong this community is by 08/24/26 Antonio Clarence Stephens, age 43, Atlanta, GA showing up to BE THE ONE. lodge and remained an active George Washington Hold for other agency thing when you talk about participant, regularly visiting was the first President of the The American Legion 08/24/26 Helen Renee Woods, age 54, East Point, GA the Lodge of Fredericksburg United States and a dedicated Illegal possession of controlled substance, poss of Missing is the largest and one of the over the next several years. Freemason. controlled substance (2 counts), possession of North Carolina POSITION AVAILABLE drug related objects, prescription drugs must be in original container(s) person found There are 61 inmates currently housed in the Union County Jail. UTILITY MAINTENANCE TRAINEE The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation alerted the public last week Blairsville Police Department that Robert Fox of Forsyth The City of Blairsville is currently accepting applications for a full time Arrests and Incident Report County, North Carolina, had Utility Maintenance Trainee for the Water/Sewer Maintenance Department. been located and was not in Chief Michael “Bear” Baxter danger. According to North Car- Essential Duties and Responsibilities --- This position is primarily responsi- olina SBI, Fox went missing ble for installing, repairs, and maintaining water and sewer lines and mains as 08/30/26 Anderson Christian Cruise, age 20, Blairsville, GA after suffering a mental health well as some sidewalk and street repairs and landscaping and grounds work. Possession of marijuana less than 1 oz. issue. He went to a local hos- 08/28/26 Wayne Oliver Garland, age 51, Blairsville, GA pital but left without his family The new hire must be able to obtain a class III Georgia state water distribution Possession of firearm by convicted felon (3 counts), knowing on July 31, 2026. certification within nine months of hire date. The physical duties include but driving while license suspended/revoked The Towns County 08/29/26 Aubrey Deanna Garrett, age 18, Blairsville, GA Sheriff’s Office and other are not limited to walking, reaching, climbing stairs and ladders, standing for Possession of marijuana less than 1 oz. agencies were taking tips as to long periods and lifting 50 lbs. or more. Also must be able to deal with heights 08/25/26 Joel Daniel Tatum, age 27, Blue Ridge, GA his whereabouts at the time he and enclosed spaces and be able to operate a fire hose. Shifts are typically 8 Possession of open alcohol container, no proof of was located. insurance, operating vehicle with susp/canc/rev/ hours Monday through Friday but can vary due to demand. Employee must registration, failure to yield when enter/cross also be able to be on call for nights, weekends, holidays and overtime when roadway, DUI alcohol necessary. 08/24/26 Assist motorist, sexual battery, MVA 08/25/26 DUI, forgery-3rd degree, courtesy escort, driving Minimum Qualifications --- High school diploma or GED; possess a valid while license suspended 08/26/26 Dispute between persons, entering automobile, Georgia driver’s license; must pass a drug test and have a satisfactory motor 2 MVAs vehicle record as well as have your own transportation to work. 08/27/26 Courtesy escort Union County 08/28/26 Possession of firearm by convicted felon, found Elementary School The city offers excellent benefits and paid time off. property, animal case, courtesy escort 08/29/26 Assist other agency, courtesy escort, VGCSA less Title l Family Game Night Applications can be picked up at City Hall, 62 Blue Ridge Street than 1 oz., MVA Thursday, September 10th or online at www.blairsville-ga.gov and can be dropped off at City Hall 08/30/26 Recovered property-not stolen, misc. report, 5:30 - 6:30 PM or mailed to PO Box 307, Blairsville, GA 30514. courtesy escort (2nd and 3rd Grade) Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Questions regarding position can be directed to Mayor or City Clerk at 706-745-2000. Tuesday, September 15th 5:30 -6:30 PM The City of Blairsville is an equal opportunity employer. Union County Fire (4th and 5th Grade) Department Incidents Union County Fire Chief David Dyer VETERANS 08/22/26 Motor Vehicle Accident-Pat Colwell/St Hwy 325; CORNER Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; Disabled American Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Veterans - DAV Chapter 11: Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog; Meetings are on the 2nd Mon- Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa; day of each month at 7 PM; 78 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock 08/23/26 Fire Alarm-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, 3 Medical Calls-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock GA 30512. 08/24/26 Vehicle Fire-Murphy Hwy/Owen Glen; Motor Navy Seabee Veterans Vehicle Accident-Russell Scenic; Medical Call- Of America, Island X-3, GA: Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call-Station 1 & Meetings are on the 2nd Fri- Station 3-Owltown; Brush Fire-Station 5-Suches; day of each month at 2 PM; 78 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, 08/25/26 3 Medical Calls-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call- GA 30512. Station 1 & Station 2-Jones Creek; Medical Call- Navy Seabee Veterans Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Medical Call- Support Alliance: Meetings 1 & Station 9-Coosa; 4 Medical Calls-Station 1 & are on the 2nd Friday of each Station 10-Trackrock; Gas Leak-Station 1 & month at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Station 12-Choestoe Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. 08/26/26 Car Seat Install-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call- Marine Corps League, Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call-Station 13 & Detachment 783: Meetings Station 4-Ivy Log; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station are on the 3rd Saturday of 6-Pat Colwell; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 10- each month at 10 AM; 78 Blue Trackrock; 2 Medical Calls-Station 1 & Station 12- Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA Choestoe 30512. 08/27/26 Motor Vehicle Accident-Smyrna Rd/Smyrna Spur; American Legion - Ira Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 2-Jones Creek; Weaver Post: Meetings are on Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; the 3rd Tuesday of each month 2 Medical Calls-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; at 6 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Blairsville, GA 30512. Smoke Investigation-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Vietnam Veterans Of Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog America, Chapter 1101: 08/28/26 Structure Fire-State Hwy 60; Medical Call-Station Meetings are on the 3rd Thurs- 1 & Station 9-Coosa; Medical Call-Station 1 & day Of each month at 1 PM; Station 10-Trackrock 08/29/26 Motor Vehicle Accident-Gainesville Hwy/Blood 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairs- Mtn Cove; Fire Alarm-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical ville, GA 30512. Call-Station 1 & Station 2-Jones Creek; Medical Veterans Of Foreign Call-Station 5-Suches; Medical Call-Station 1 & Wars - Post 7394: Meetings Station 10-Trackrock; Smoke Detector Install- are on the 4th Tuesday Of each Station 1 & Station 12-Choestoe; Motor Vehicle month at 4 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Accident-Gainesville Hwy/Blood Mtn Cove Hwy., Blairsville GA 30512. 08/30/26 Medical Call-Station 5-Suches; Medical Call- PTSD Support Group: Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa; 3 Medical Calls- Meets on the 1st and 3rd Sat- Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock urdays at 10 AM.
Page 4B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Wilderness Pickers last 2026 Appalachian Trail Day Returns to performance at Reece! Sept. 5 Brasstown Bald Saturday, Sept. 5 The Appalachian Trail Join the Wilderness runs 2,197.9 miles across 14 Pickers for an enjoyable af- states, beginning/ending right ternoon at the Reece Pavillon, here in Georgia. Saturday, September 5th at 1 FIND Outdoors and to 2:30 PM. the Georgia Appalachian Trail This talented six-mem- Club (GATC) invite families, ber acoustic group of friends hikers, and outdoor enthusi- Terri Reilly, Ted Dyk, Ken asts to Appalachian Trail Day Sampson, John Weaver, Mike at Brasstown Bald, a fun and Henderson, and Roy Perren educational celebration of one from the Blairsville area, will of America’s most iconic trails. be performing the timeless On September 5th join sounds of the 60’s, 70’s, and us for a family event oriented 80’s, Oldies, Country Clas- around educating visitors on sic Rock and a touch of Blue the Appalachian Trail, the Grass. Get ready to sing along trail’s history and development, to your favorite hits and re- how the trail is maintained tolive the magic of an era that day, and what a hiker may changed music forever. Fea- experience when walking the turing the soulful sounds of A.T.. The goal of the event is to the Beatles, Jim Croce, John not only introduce the A.T., but Denver, the Eagles, Roy Orbi- also give participants knowlson, Elvis, Merle Haggard,and edge on the natural world and more! The Wilderness Pickers encourage them to be stewards exploring mock A.T. camp- PM. Guests are encouraged to Enjoy these acoustic This is a free concert of the farm. of the great outdoors. sites, and participating in Leave bring their cameras, sunscreen, covers that will have you sing- and everyone is invited to at- Bring a lawn chair, Throughout the day, visi- No Trace activities. Guests are curiosity, and a desire to exing along and tapping your tend. Donations are accepted snack, and drinks to enjoy tors can explore a variety of ac- also encouraged to meet with plore! Brasstown Bald is locatfeet. Come and join the fun! and appreciated for the upkeep yourself. tivities and community booths, other community partners who ed at 2941 State Hwy 180 Spur, including hiking a Mini Appa- will be at the event and even Hiawassee, GA 30546. 4. WEATHERBY ORION 5. S&W .44 lachian Trail to the summit of engage in a live crosscut saw For more information 1. RUGER 45 ACP 2. HENRY BIG BOY 30/30 3. GLOCK G19 9MM Brasstown Bald with panels demonstration! about Appalachian Trail Day SHOTGUN 12/30/3 MOUNTAIN GUN representing each state along This event is free with the and other educational programs the full A.T., Trail Maintenance cost of admission to Brasstown at Brasstown Bald, visit www. and Camping Demonstrations, Bald and runs from 11 AM to 3 gofindoutdoors.org. 6. WINCHESTER SXP TURKEY SHOTGUN 7. RUGER WRANGLER COMBO 8. RUGER .308 20” 9. KIMBER MIDNIGHT CUSTOM 10. TITAN SHOTGUN SEMI-AUTOMATIC Rep. Clyde Applauds $93.3 Million Investment to Help Rural Healthcare Access Across GA Congressman Andrew to prepare for participation Clyde (GA-09) applauded in Centers for Medicare & 14. BROWNING A5 15. REMINGTON 700 11. S&S .380 BODYGUARD 12. TIKKA T3X 13. KEL TEC 22 LR HUNTER SHOTGUN RIFLE the Trump Administration’s Medicaid Services’ (CMS) announcement that a $93.3 AHEAD Model, helping pro- million investment is being viders build the capacity need- delivered to Georgia to help ed to transition toward more strengthen rural hospitals sustainable, accountable mod- and improve health outcomes els of care. 17. RUGER 10/22 20. KIMBER MICRO 9 16. SIG SAUER 365 FUSE 22 LR 18. S&W 442 38 SPL. 19. ROSSI 360B 20” RIFLE CINDER through the federal Rural Strengthening the rural Health Transformation Pro- healthcare workforce: Invest- gram (RHTP). ments are expanding educa- This investment was tion and training opportunities made possible through Re- for nurses, emergency medical 21. CHARTER ARMS 22. RUGER AMERICAN 24. HENRY 22 LR publicans’ One Big Beautiful technicians, and paramedics, 23. TAURUS 9MM 25. S&W M&P 22WMR Bill Act (OBBBA), which re- while supporting new ap- .357 TARGET REVOLVER 22WMR STANDARD RIFLE ceived Rep. Clyde’s vote and proaches to recruiting and re- unanimous Democrat opposi- taining healthcare profession- tion, including from Georgia’s als in rural communities. Democrat Senators Jon Ossoff Rep. Andrew Clyde Expanding access and 26. SAVAGE ARMS 27. HENRY BIG BOY 28. BROWNING HUNTER 29. S&W 10MM 30. RUGER AMERICAN and Raphael Warnock. The munities across the Ninth Dis- strengthening the continuum 410 SHOTGUN REVOLVER .308 RIFLE FPC RIFLE 45ACP OBBBA delivered a historic trict. It’s incredible to see the of care: Georgia is investing in $50 billion investment, known Rural Health Transformation telehealth access points, ma- as the Rural Health Transfor- Program in action, delivering ternal and behavioral health- mation Program, to help states on our promise to make rural care, newborn screening, modernize rural health. America healthy again.” transportation, and other ser- “I’m deeply thankful for Today’s announcement, vices designed to better con- President Trump and his Ad- which is just one part of the nect rural patients with care. Drawing when ministration’s implementation larger overall funding amount Modernizing rural all tickets are of the One Big Beautiful Bill awarded to Georgia for Fiscal healthcare through technol- sold Act’s commitment to invest in Year 2026, completes Geor- ogy and innovation: Funding and ultimately improve rural gia’s initial Year 1 award cy- is supporting technology-en- healthcare,” said Clyde. “From cle. abled care and infrastructure, 2026 strengthening the workforce Projects supported by including rural hospital cyber- to expanding access to criti- this funding include: Prepar- security, telehealth capacity, cal care, this investment will ing rural hospitals for value- surgical robotics, and other make a tremendous impact based care: Georgia is sup- tools designed to strengthen $30 per Ticket gives you THIRTY throughout the Peach State, porting 87 rural hospitals with rural healthcare delivery and Appalachian Shrine pp including in the rural com- pre-implementation funding workforce retention. Chances to Win!! Only 1,200 Tickets will be sold!! Union County Retired Educators Tickets are available from any Shriner or at Alexander’s Store. This is not a hospital charity fund raiser. Donations are not tax-deductible. updated events & Sept. 9th Meeting At the April Union County Retired Educators 4482 Town Creek School Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Club Blairsville, Georgia l Meeting Certificates were presented to outstanding Guns are to be picked up from our generous sponsor within 30 days of draw date members of the Organization. Certificate of Leader- ship was presented to Carolyn Hutson; Certificate for Volun- teer of the Year was presented to Pat Everett and Certificate of Appreciation was present- ed to Rick Maddox. Judy Carpenter, Rick Maddox and Sheila Garrison attended the Georgia Retired Educators Regional Meet- ing in Gainesville on August (L-R): Carolyn Hutson, Pat Everett, Rick Maddox 27th. Our next meeting will be held Wednesday, Septem- ber 9th at 11:30 at Grits and Greens Blairsville Restaurant. Stan Gunter will be our speaker and will update us on state legislative issues that af- fect our county. Please come join us for a good meal, fellowship and an informative program. Help support our local unit. Support Group for Families (L-R): Rick Maddox; President-elect, Judy Carpenter; President and with Addicts Sheila Garrison; Treasurer Addiction affects ev- eryone close to the addict. If play and the Howell move- Appalachian Duplicate ment was used for the game. someone’s addiction to drugs Bridge Club News is affecting you, we can help. Judy Aube and Frank Fulford Nar-Anon is a twelve step pro- claimed first place honors gram for families and friends On Monday, August with a score of 48.0. Victoria of addicts. At our meetings 24th, four and one half tables and George Tucker finished in you will hear others, who are of the Appalachian Duplicate second place with a score of going through similar prob- Bridge Club played a Howell 46.0. There was a tie for third/ lems, share about how they movement at the Clay County fourth places among Joe Wald cope and find recovery. Senior Center in Hayesville, and Jim Bell with Robert Toll- We meet on Sunday NC. George and Victoria iver and Lucy Kizirian. Both from 6 PM to 7 PM at 112 Tucker finished in a tie for teams had a score of 45.5. Cedar Lane, Blairsville, GA first/second place with Joe All winners in both directions 30512. Wald and Frank Fulford. Both received points toward Life of these teams had a score of Master status. Georgia Mountain 47.0. Third place went to An- drea Pierson and Lynn Melick The club plays every Monday and Thursday at the Pregnancy Center with a score of 38.0. Joyce Clay County Senior Center The Georgia Mountain Geiger and Sue Wall took beginning at 12:30 p.m. and Pregnancy Center offers free fourth place with a score of would welcome any interested first Trimester ultrasound, 37.0. Rounding out the day’s bridge players to join in on the pregnancy test, and counseling. winners in fifth place were fun. If you need information The center is located at Karen Miller and Dennis Ray about the games or a partner, 136 Hospital Drive Road, Suite with a score of 36.0. please contact Ray Ferree at A, GA; (706)745-0051; gmpc- On Thursday, August 850-384-3642 or email him at medical.org 27th, four full tables were in raygfer1430@gmail.com.
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5B Church News in the Mountains of North Georgia Coosa Methodist’s 192nd Homecoming Bethlehem Baptist Work is good and from the Lord... Come, labor on! Honoring the Past - Embracing the Future Kids Movie Night A church newsletter an- having a vocation was one of The Rev. nounced a “Celebration of Vo- the many positive insights to Bethlehem Baptist Victor H. Morgan Church Kids movie night ages cations” for the Sunday before come out of the Reformation of 5+ on Friday, September 4th. Labor Day. Everyone was asked the 16th Century. Rector Please come join us and bring to bring a tool of his or her trade In pre-Reformation St. Luke’s a friend! We will be showing or work. For example, a teacher times, it had become common Church “King of Kings” by Angel stu- might bring a piece of chalk; a to associate ‘vocation’ solely Blue Ridge dios. Pizza will be served from student, a textbook; a motor car with going into a monastery 6-6:30; Movie starts at 7 PM. mechanic, a wrench; a fast-food or seeking Holy Orders (being Christ, giving thanks to God Popcorn will be served during employee, a soft drink cup; a ordained). But the Reformers, and the Father by him” (Colos- the movie. Call 828-371-3340 doctor, a stethoscope; a lawyer, in particular Martin Luther, sians 3:17). for more information. Ad- a copy of Black’s Law Diction- said, no. All work, so long as Regardless if we adopt dress: 2043 State Hwy. 325, ary; a housewife, a rolling pin. it is honest and honorable, is the practice of the church I Blairsville, GA 30512. Retired folk, meanwhile, were a vocation from the Lord and mentioned earlier, that of bring- asked to bring something that should be performed in light of ing objects relating to our work Returning and reflected their activity in the present. the command to love God and neighbor. One historian has to church on the Sunday before Labor Day weekend, let us see Inactive Catholics The plan, according to called Luther’s insight a “theol- our labor as part of our call- the article, was for worshipers ogy of the ordinary.” Coosa Methodist Church Welcome to hold these articles up at a But actually, this broader ing from God and in mind and heart offer it to Him day by day. Coosa Methodist Church Come Home to Coosa! If you are a Catholic designated point in the service idea of the Christian’s calling Come, labor on! will celebrate Homecoming on Join us and be apart of this who has been away from the as a sign that they were handing goes back much further. Histori- O God, at whose word Sunday, September 20, 2026. joyous Homecoming Celebra- Church, for however long, for over this part of their life to the ans tell us that in the early days man goeth forth to this work From 1834 to 2026, All glory tion as we proclaim the salva- whatever reason, we invite Lord. What a splendid and cre- of the Church worshipers would and to his labour until the eveto God for 192 years! tion of Jesus Christ throughout you to be an active part of the ative idea! bring the works of their hands, ning; Be merciful to all whose There will be a guest the beautiful North Georgia Catholic Church once again. Often in evangelistic the fruits of their labor, to the duties are difficult or burdenspeaker, wonderful worship mountains ... since 1834. LANDINGS is a program that meetings one hears the phrase, Supper of the Lord. At some some, and comfort them conservices, special music and Worship services are offers a “safe place to land”, a “Give your heart to Jesus”, and, point in the service these items cerning their toil. Shield from a “pot luck” Dinner on the held weekly at 8:30 and 10:30 place for listening and for be- no doubt, this is good and right. – bread, wine, produce, etc. – bodily accident and harm the Grounds following the 10:30 AM at 767 Mulky Gap Road ing heard, a place for asking We do need to give our heart were brought to the front and workmen at their work. Protect service in the Fellowship Hall. in Blairsville. questions and for reconnecting -- the control centre of our life presented. We call this point in the efforts of sober and honest with your Catholic faith. -- to Jesus. But having said that the service today the offertory. industry, and suffer not the hire “We Care” - Looking At Our We begin our next ses- sion at St. Francis on October and in response and as a conse- quence, we need to give over It would be strange in- deed if this dramatic offering of of the labourers to be kept back by fraud. Incline the heart of he Losses And Griefs As A Caregiver 8th. Interested? Please contact us c/o Landings@stfrancis- every aspect of our life, our vo- the works of their hands did not employers and of those whom If you’re a caregiver, If you’re a caregiver and blairsville.com. Pre-registra- cations included. Doctor, law- foster in these early worshipers they employ to mutual forbearyou know the ups and downs, would like to attend, please tion is required. yer, Indian chief, or street clean- a sense of vocation. After all, it ance, and goodwill. Remember er – it doesn’t matter – whatever was Paul who admonished be- all, who by reason of economic griefs and losses that go with RSVP to Doug or Rebecca work we do should be seen no lievers at Colossi: “Whatsoever conditions and unscrupulous the role. With that in mind, family caregivers are invited Collins at 706-897-5221 or hisgrace4amadcaregiver@ The Church of longer as a job, but a calling. ye do in word or deed, do all politicians are unemployed. Ento attend “We Care,” a respite gmail.com. Jesus Christ of This idea of every Christian in the name of the Lord Jesus courage and provide for their needs. Give ear unto our prayer, and support group for fam- Redeemer Baptist is at Latter-day Saints Coosa Methodist’s Annual Arts & ily caregivers that meets on 39 Youngstown Church Road O merciful and gracious Father, the first Friday of the month in Blairsville, one and a quar- The Church of Jesus Crafts, Silent Auction, Bake & BBQ Sale for the love of thy dear Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. at Redeemer Baptist Church ter miles north of KFC off Christ of Latter-day Saints Autumn is approaching and talents. (Book of Common Prayer) in Blairsville. This month We Murphy Highway, across from meets weekly on Sundays at and the air is full of excitement There are men and Care” will meet on Friday, Mayfield Ice Cream. 10 AM for Worship, 11 AM for September 4th at 11:30 AM. Sunday School, and 7 PM on as Coosa Methodist readies for its annual arts, crafts, bake, si- women at Coosa who are ex- ceptionally talented and have Bunker Hill A home-cooked meal will be Gibson/Vandiver Tuesdays for scripture study. Please join us at 34 Rogers lent auction and BBQ event. made many awesome items. Baptist Services served and there will be dis- Mark October 3rd from live entertainment will be a Bunker Hill Baptist cussions on the losses and Family Reunion Street in Blairsville. All are welcome to attend! 9 AM to 2 PM on your calen- special part. Church would like to invite griefs of caregivers. Pastor The Gibson/Vandiver dar. Everyone looks forward to Come support this proj- everyone to come out and be Bill Schakat will be speaking from Isaiah 53:4. Visitors are Reunion will be held at the Choestoe School House Sat- Zion Baptist this event which is known for the high quality merchandise, ect and in return you will be supporting the missions and with us for all of our servic- es. Sunday school at 10 AM; welcome! urday, September 12, 2026; Church Services baked goods , and BBQ. ministries of Coosa Methodist. Sunday Worship Service at 11 Time: 11 AM; Location: 1034 Join us at Zion Church, The people of Coosa Be apart of this spe- AM; Wednesday Night Bible Shady Grove UMC Collins Road, Blairsville, GA. Suches each Sunday at 11 Methodist are working hard to cial mountain tradition. Co- Study at 7 PM. Every 4th Sun- 1604 Owltown Road Bring a covered dish, your AM, “Mega Signs for Our ensure there is something for osa Methodist is located 767 day of each month we have a favorite dessert, and a drink. Lord’s Return”. Zion Church everyone at this year’s sale. Mulky Gap Road in Blairs- evening service with a guest Blairsville, GA Fried chicken, paper goods is located at 10 Zion Road and Coosa is very fortunate ville. Worship services are preacher and special singers at (706) 781-4729 will be provided. Also bring Wolf Pen Gap Road (180) in to have many talented mem- held Sunday at 8:30 and 10:30 6 PM. God loves you and so photos so we can reminisce. Suches. bers who contribute their time AM. do we. - Pastor, Travis Morgan St. Francis of Assisi Mountain Mount Hebron Baptist Church Presbyterian Church Catholic Church We invite YOU to Come Worship With Us! ŝŽĐĞƐĞŽĨƚůĂŶƚĂ Fr. Cong Nguyen, Pastor Unity Church 3737 Hwy. 515 E, Blairsville /HGIRUG5RDG%ODLUVYLOOH VWFODUHVHSLVFRSDORUJ 706-745-6400 of the Mountains www.stfrancisblairsville.com 2309 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville Come worship with us Sunday Worship +RO(XFKDULVWLQSHUVRQDQGRQ )DFHERRN6XQGD $0 Saturday Vigil: 706-781-3393 Sunday mornings at 11 AM Service Times: 11:00 am DQG:HGQHVGD 30 4:30 PM & 6:30 PM (Spanish) A path to with Fellowship following. Sunday Morning: 10:30 AM Sunday School 10:00 am Weekday Morning Prayer - 8 AM :HHNGD0RUQLQJ3UDHU $0 Sunday Masses: 8:30 & 11 AM spiritual living. 3831 GA-515 | Blairsville Wednesday: 7:00 PM &RPSOLQH 30 )DFHERRNRQO Sharing the love of Jesus in the Sunday Service 10:30 706-745-8036 1237 Booger Hollow Rd. Rev. Alex Nixon 7KH5HY/L]6FKHOOLQJHUKRXGW North Georgia Mountains and beyond UnityChurchoftheMountains.org mtnpres.org 678-428-7118 Pastor Deron Shuler Blairsville Seventh-day Fundamental Adventist Chuch Independent 215 Watkins Road | Blairsville, GA 30512 Sunday School.......10:00 a.m. 706-835-1726 Sunday Worship....11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening...... 5:00 p.m. Pastor Valentin Rusu Wednesday............ 7:00 p.m. Saturday Bible Study ... 9:20 AM Saturday Worship Service ... 11 AM 4231 Trackrock Gap Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Thursday Food Pantry ... 10 AM - 2 PM Timothy L. Mason, Pastor Thursday Hot Meal ... 11 AM - 1 PM 706-745-3130 - Church Phone • www.slbcga.org Welcome to God ’s House I was glad when they said, “Let us go to the House of the Lord.” This church feature is sponsored by these civic minded businesses KING Brasstown Manor Hemphill Vinyl Siding Valley Mountain Motors Murphy, NC Where you are treated like Royalty! Senior Living & Metal RooÀng 706-632-5357 Clothing Shoes Appliances Furniture SALES - LEASING - SERVICE - RENTAL 706-896-4285 154 Kelley Road 7535 Appalachian Hwy. Groceries Sporting Goods Jewelry 828.837.2121 / KingFordSales.com / 800.388.2897 108 Church Street, Hiawassee Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-6450 2450 W US Hwy 64, Murphy, North Carolina 28906 www.BrasstownManorSeniorLiving.com 745-3145 • 745-9006 Blue Ridge, GA GA MTN GRINDING TURPIN’S & RECYCLING “ “ WRECKER They say love is the best investment; the more Screened Topsoil, Mulch, Fill Dirt, Erosion Control Supply you give, the more you get in return. SERVICE blairsville 706.400.5043 (King’s Hometown Pharmacy) -Audrey Hepburn 24/7 Towing & Emergency Roadside Services 241 GRINDER ROAD, BLAIRSVILLE murphy 828.837.7474 706-835-2000 • 706-994-4818 706-896-4138 hayesville 828.516.9950 KingsRxAndWellness.com 706-896-4936 MON-FRI 8AM-5PM | SAT 8AM-NOON Give It Away @kingsrxandwellness | @kingshometownpharmacy McKinney L ove is not something that we can store or save like we Heating & Air Conditioning can with money or material possessions. Love is better thought of as both a feeling and an action, and “When Comfort Counts!” in fact a feeling that often comes naturally when we act in loving ways. And thus, it makes sense that we have more 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville, GA 706-745-8097 148 Smith St. love the more that we give away. That is, the more that we Mindy Allen / Ria Storm act in a loving manner, the more love we will get directed 706-896-1800 back to us and the more loving and lovable we will feel. Like 706-781-7945 so many things in life, we often must take a leap of faith and North Georgia News act with love and kindness to those around us and that Business Cards, Stationery, same love that we give will come right back to us. It’s as simple as smiling at others and being generous when we JACKY CHRYSLER Labels, Banners, Invitations, 706-745-6343 can. There are endless ways in which we can be loving, and we always know when we aren’t being so. JONES "I>A? RafÁe Tickets & More! (??J® THE BEST PLACE –Christopher Simon 0;G West Printing Co. FOR LOCAL NEWS AND ADVERTISING! HAYESVILLE, NC • (828) 389-1958 706-745-6343
Page 6B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Church News in the Mountains Unfinished Portraits: Shared Purpose Fairview Baptist A troubled teenager once asked the Lubavitcher Rabbi Church Services Rebbe a heartfelt question. “If Yonatan You are invited to join G-d knew we would struggle Hambourger us at Fairview Baptist Church and make mistakes,” he asked, for a wonderful time of wor- “why didn’t He simply create TASTE OF ship and fellowship. Sunday us like angels?” TORAH school -10 AM; Worship ser- The Rebbe answered vice - 11 AM; Evening service with a question of his own. erase our differences. It gives - 6 PM. Address is 10 Fairview “What is worth more—a pho- them a shared purpose. Church Road. tograph or a portrait?” An early Kabbalistic Come and experience A photograph captures teaching observes that the He- the joy encouragement and every detail with perfect ac- brew word tzibbur—commu- presence of the Lord with us. curacy. It is an exact copy of nity—can be read as an acro- We look forward to welcomwhat stands before the camera. nym for three kinds of people: ing you. A portrait is different. The art- tzaddik, the righteous; beino- Rev. Tommy Jones N(Sep2,Z2)CA ist interprets, emphasizes, and ni, the one still struggling and reveals something deeper than the eye alone can see. It is pre- growing; and rasha, the one who has lost his way. A true Free Bible studies KAREN YAGER RAUCH BEATRICE MARIE SORIERO PATRICIA ANN The Eastside Church of Karen Yager Rauch went MATTSON cisely that uniqueness which community contains them all. Christ, Morganton, GA is of- Mrs. Beatrice Marie Sori- to be with Jesus on the 26th of Patricia Ann Mattson of gives a portrait its value. Chassidic thought car- fering free Bible studies. You August, 2026, at the age of 84. ero, age 98, of Arkaqua Road, Stonehenge Living Facility in “The angels,” the Rebbe ries the idea even further. may request either mail cor- Karen earned a degree Blairsville, GA, passed away Blairsville, GA and formerly of explained, “are G-d’s photo- These are not merely three dif- respondence or one-on-one. in Business Management from peacefully of natural causes on Ossining and New Windsor, NY graphs. Human beings are His ferent kinds of people. They Kent State University. She was Sunday, August 23, 2026, sur- entered into rest on August 23, Please call 706-374-3262 for rounded by her family at her portraits.” That insight helps are three dimensions found more information. N(Sep2,Z1)CA a devoted wife, mother, grand- 2026. Patricia was born in Osexplain one of the Torah’s within every one of us. mother, and great-grandmother home. Mrs. Soriero was born sining, NY on January 2, 1939 to on November 25, 1927, in Jermost surprising passages. Each year, just before Each of us has moments when we rise above ourselves, Liberty Hill who deeply loved her family and her Lord. sey City, NJ, the daughter of the Louis Vincent and Florence Ve- ronica Corsetti. late Giovanni Tesauro and the Rosh Hashanah—the day moments when we struggle, Church Services She is survived by her late Florentina Barone Tesauro. Patti was a graduate of Ossining High School where she when every person stands be- and moments when we fall Liberty Hill Church, husband, Donald Rauch; her son, Richard Rauch; her daughter, Su- Beatrice was a loving and caring studied to be a secretary and later fore G-d in judgment—the short. None of us is a flawless “A Little Church with a Big zanne Rauch Daley (CSM Vern wife, mother, grandmother, great Torah assigns the opening of photograph. Every one of us is sat for the paralegal exam in the Heart”. We come together, ev- Daley, Jr.); and her cherished grandmother, and sister. She en- state of New York. Patti was a the Torah portion known as a portrait still being painted. ery Sunday morning at 11 a.m. grandchildren: Tamika (Carlos), joyed cooking (for everyone), dedicated and essential parale- Netzavim. Moses begins with That changes the way we see as a body of believers to wor- Malcom (Alexandria), Kumiko, traveling, shopping, and loved gal to the Town Attorney in New these stirring words: “You other people. ship Jesus. spending time with her family. Windsor, NY where she lived, Maika (Will), AnnaBeth (Char- Beatrice was preceded in death are standing today, all of you, Instead of asking, “Why We would love for you lie), and Buddy. She was also worked, played and raised her before the L-rd your G-d...” can’t everyone be more like by her parents; her husband, Car- three beloved daughters. She also to be part of our church fam- blessed with great grandchildren: mine Benjamin Soriero; and nine (Deuteronomy 29:9). me?” we begin asking, “What ily! Our church is located at, Amaya, Julius, Camilla, Selena, worked at Stewart Air Force Base If his purpose is to unite is it that G-d wishes me to siblings. Mrs. Soriero was of the for many years and was present 255 Liberty Hill Road, GA Denzel, Isabella, and Elaina. Catholic faith. the people before they stand learn from this person?” Hwy. 515, just across the Fan- Karen lived in several when the Iran hostages returned Surviving Mrs. Soriero home in 1981. She received a before their Creator, we might The people who chal- nin/Union County, GA Line. places throughout her life, but are four sons: Chuck Soriero of expect him to stop there. In- lenge us may possess strengths N(Sep2,Z2)CA following retirement she made Citation of Recognition for her Homosassa, FL, Mike Soriero stead, he immediately begins we lack. The people we ad- her home in Blairsville, and Hia- contributions to the town of New listing everything that makes mire carry burdens we can- Opportunity wassee, GA. She was a longtime (spouse Juni) of Clermont, FL, Ernie Soriero of Blairsville, GA, Windsor from Senator William J. Larkin. Patti retired in 2002 afthem different: “Your leaders, your tribes, your elders, your not see. The people who seem weakest today may become to change a life member of Christ the King Angli- can Church in Hiawassee, where Scott Soriero (spouse Vivian) of Hiawassee, GA; brother, Johnny ter 36 years of service. She was Do you know a loved she faithfully served in numerous Tesauro of Jersey City, NJ; three a member of the Garden Club, officers, every man of Israel, tomorrow’s greatest teachers. Beautification and Holiday Comyour children, your wives, and Community is not built by one who struggles with addic- ministries. Karen had a heart for grandchildren: Montana Tincher, tions or strongholds? others and was especially de- Marcie Myburgh, Gina Seale; mittees and served as the Secrethe stranger in your camp— gathering perfect people. It is tary of the Zoning Board in New from your woodchopper to built by recognizing that each Unity Farm, a biblically voted to nursing home ministry and nine great grandchildren. Windsor. Patti was an active payour water carrier” (Deuter- of us has something to receive based, 12-step Men’s Recov- - (bringing church services and Many other relatives and friends rishioner of St. Francis of Assisi onomy 29:9–10). Why? from the other. ery Home is located in Union Holy Communion to residents). also survive. Catholic Church in Newburgh, Why proclaim that ev- Before we stand before County. For more information She also contributed through Funeral services were held NY where she sang in the choir. eryone stands together, only our Creator, the Torah reminds please call 706-851-5390 or church photography, led Opera- on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 2 She attended mass at Stonehenge tion Christmas Child efforts, sup- PM with Rev. Danny White offito remind them how different us that He is not looking for 706-455-9043. NT(Sep2,Z1)CA ported/volunteered at Christ the led by St. Francis of Assisi Cath- ciating. The following gentlemen olic Church in Blairsville, GA. they are? Because the Torah’s idea of unity is unlike our own. identical photographs. He is looking at a room full of unfin- Learn more King Antique & Furniture Store mission, Lay Eucharist Ministry served as pallbearers: Chuck Sor- iero, Mike Soriero, Ernie Soriero, Patti was a hardworking, loving mother and grandmother. She en- We often imagine unity ished portraits. And every one about the Bible and participated in Bible studies Scott Soriero, Christiaan My- joyed cooking, shopping, gardenmeans becoming more alike— of them is priceless. Would you like to learn and many other activities. Music was a lifelong joy burgh, Gary Seale, Andy Tincher and Drew Tincher. Interment fol- ing, sewing, painting and creating thinking alike, acting alike, I wish you a good week more about the Bible? Click on for Karen. She began playing the beautiful works of art in stained agreeing about everything. and Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi lowed in the Union Memory Gar- website and register for Free flute in early childhood and con- dens Cemetery. The family met glass. She also appreciated nature The Torah teaches something Yonatan Hambourger; y@ Bible Study! blairsvillebible. tinued sharing her musical gifts especially spending time at the with friends at the funeral home richer. Real unity does not TasteofTorah.org. NT(Sep2,Z11)CA worldbibleschool. org. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, pool or beach and cruising the in school orchestras, musicals, and worship groups throughout from 6-8 PM. Caribbean. Patti spent evenings Backpack2School Program grateful for a caring community her life. Mountain View Funeral watching her favorite movie or Above all, Karen loved Home of Blairsville is in charge musical at home with family. She of the arrangements. You may knew the words to every song her family deeply and held a sign the family guest book and and show tune and loved to sing strong faith in Christ. She now send condolences online at www. along and dance. She was an rests in Jesus’ presence and looks avid New York Yankees fan and forward to the joyful reunion mountainviewfuneralhome.com. waved her Terrible Towel during with loved ones in Heaven. the Steelers football games. Cochran-McDaniel Fu- Patti was predeceased by neral Home is honored to serve her loving spouse and high school the family of Karen Rauch. You sweetheart, Edward A. Mattson; may sign the guest register and and her brothers, Jack (Marion) send condolences to the family at Corsetti and Louis Corsetti; and www.cochranmcdaniel.com. her nephew Jackie Corsetti. She is survived by her three beloved Griefshare Seminar daughters: Jill Marie Delio of Leesburg, VA, Julianne (Alan) Beginning at LaForge of Young Harris, GA Mcconnell Memorial and Trisha Ann (Richard) Pelsue of New Windsor, NY; and her Baptist Church grandson, Fletcher (Jordan Con- nor) Basch of Jacksonville, FL Starting on Thursday, and grandson, Christopher La- August 27, 2026 – November SCOTT DOUGLAS Forge of Conway, SC; and great MICKLER grandchildren, Christopher, Ry- 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM – 12:30 387 students at the 11th Annual Backpack2School Bash received assistance PM, McConnell Memorial Mr. Scott Douglas Mick- ann and Charleekate. She will be Much appreciation is Baptist Church in Hiawas- ler, age 60, of Forest City, NC, sadly missed by her sister, Lor- formerly of Hayesville, passed raine Ratliff of Florida and her given for the response of the see, GA, located at 84 Church brother, Jay (Susan) Corsetti of away suddenly on Sunday, Au- Union County Community Street, will be hosting an in- gust 9, 2026, at Rutherford Re- Colorado, as well as her nieces: to the needs of our students, person interdenominational gional Hospital. Scott was born Susan, Brenda, Lynda, Evy and families, and schools in prepa- grief recovery program called on July 14, 1966, in St. Augus- Lisa; and her nephew, Michael ration for the 2026-27 School GriefShare. tine, FL, the son of Shirley Ann and his wife, Donna; and count- Year. With your assistance, This program is a Bible- Gaston and the late Franklin less great nieces and nephews. we supplied 387 students at based program designed for Douglas Mickler. Scott was a Patti will also be missed the 11th Annual Backpack- men and women that have ex- loving son, brother, and uncle. He by her dearest lifelong friends, 2School Bash on Saturday, perienced the loss of a family loved listening to 80’s metal mu- Carol, Nancy, Cathy and Annie. August 1, with an additional member, a loved one, or friend sic and was a pretty good drum- Her family would like to 60+ through Family Connec- mer. He worked in the Food Ser- thank all of her caregivers along due to death. Participants will the way especially the staff of vice Industry and loved hanging tions on the days following. be with facilitators who un- out at the Huddle House drinking Stonehenge and Appalachian Indeed, it “takes a village” derstand their feelings of loss coffee. He was preceded in death Hospice. through the cooperation of our and have all experienced grief by his father, Franklin Douglas Donations may be made various church, community, personally. Mickler and a brother, Anthony in her memory to St. Jude Chilbusiness, and individual part- This is a 13-week semi- Mickler. Scott previously attend- dren’s Research Hospital, her faners. nar with each class being a ed House of Prayer Church and vorite of the many charities she Because of your physi- stand alone session so that a was of the Christian faith. supported. cal and financial participa- person is welcome to join any- Surviving Scott are his A Celebration of Life will tion, we were able to make a time during the 13 weeks. The mother and stepfather, Shirley be held at a future date. difference at the event and, in in-person sessions will meet and Fred Swanson of Hayesville; Mountain View Funeral Union County students receive supplies for upcoming school year two sisters and one brother-in- Home of Blairsville is in charge addition, to offer further sup- in the Family Life Center at law, Julie and Adam McPherson of the arrangements. You may plies for the teachers and their Baptist; St. Clare’s Episcopal; House; Kiwanis Club; Lions McConnell Memorial Bap- of Blairsville, Sherri Mickler of sign the family guest book and classrooms in the Fall. Contin- United Methodist Circle of Club; North Georgia Tech tist Church, Room 219. Cost Murphy; niece and nephew, Cin- send condolences online at www. ue to remember our Schools, Love; Vertical Church. Adult Educ; Rotary Club; is $20 for the workbook and dy Colbert and Joshua Colbert; mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Administration, Teachers, Businesses: Chick-fil-A; SAFE; Union County Library; scholarships are available. one great-nephew, Joseph; one Staff, Students, and Parents as Chill & Fill; Elevate Rental Union Early Readers. To register for this ses- great-niece, Isabella; and many other relatives and friends also Mountain we work together to raise up Co; Harvey Jaxson; Home De- Individuals: Sue Stew- sion, participants may go onto our young people for their fu- pot; United Community Bank art; Kendra Thorsell; Holly the GriefShare.org website survive. Presbyterian Food A private family celebrature endeavors in Blairsville, Woody Gap, and beyond. (incl. “Stuff the Bus”). Community Organiza- Vicarro; UCHS Coaches, Cheerleaders, & Panther. and under “Find a Session”, tion of Scott’s life will be held Pantry is open click on Hiawassee, GA and at a later date. In lieu of flowers The Ecumenical Food Special thanks are of- tions: Beta Sigma Phi Sorori- Extra special thanks the icon for McConnell Me- if you wish, the family requests fered to our various partners/ ty; CASA; Council on Alcohol and recognition are given to Pantry at Mountain Presby- morial Baptist and register, or that donations may be made to terian Church is open every participants: Churches: All & Drugs; Cub Scouts; ESOL; First United Methodist Church come to our first session and any mental illness/Adults with Thursday from 9:30 AM to 1 Saints Lutheran; Coosa Meth- Family Connections; Fellow- (Pastor Jimmy Hood) for their we will help you register. Disabilities awareness charity of PM. We are once again openodist; First Baptist; Grace- ship of Christian Athletes; graciousness in hosting, pro- For more information or your choice in Scott’s memory. ing our doors to the pantry Point; Harmony Grove Bap- Gideons; Girl Scouts; Goodies vision of space, and multiple additional assistance, please Mountain View Funeral for people to come inside to tist; New Life Family; New from the Heart; Healing Hands hands which made this event call Chris at 706-896-2281, Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may fill their own boxes. We are Union Baptist; Philadelphia Community Clinic; Isaiah117 run very smoothly. N(Sep2,Z10)CA church office at MMBC or you located right next door to the may contact the Program Di- sign the family guest book and Celebrate Recovery - Hiawassee UMC rector, Kimberly Hales at 248- send condolences online at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Catholic Church in Blairsville. Located at 3831 Hwy. 515 E. A Christ-Centered Recovery Program Annual Yard Sale 318-3286. We look forward to NT(Sep2,Z1)CA Celebrate Recovery is a need to stop denying the pain, Providence seeing you there! T(Sept2,A1)JT Thursday Night Mark your calendar for Christ-centered recovery pro- stop playing God, start admitgram that meets every Thurs- ting our powerlessness, and start our annual Yard Sale on Friday Welcoming Light Methodist TV Church Service day evening, 52 weeks a year. admitting that our lives have be- & Saturday, Sept. 11-12, 2026, A Non-Denominational Church Services Everyone is invited to It is a safe place for individu- come unmanageable. We need a 8 AM - 3 PM at the Church, Church in Blairsville. Please Providence Method- tune in every Thursday eveals to begin their journey of power greater than ourselves to 1139 US Hwy. 76 West, Hia- join us Sundays for Worship ist Church, 3075 Pat Colwell ning to WGHC TV at 7 PM; breaking free from all life's restore us and that Higher Pow- wassee GA. We welcome any at 9 AM at G & G Bakery Road, Blairsville, GA 30512; also on Facebook; wotgtv. hurts, habits, and hang-ups. er is Jesus Christ! gently used donations brought and Cafe and Wednesdays invites you to attend our Sun- com/ ROKU channel to hear "I know that nothing Meetings are held every at 6 PM for Bible Study and day Church Service from 11 to Evangelist Evelyn Adams car- to the church the week of Au- rying the Gospel around the good lives in me, that is, in my Thursday evening in Build- gust 24th between 10 AM - 5 potluck dinner also at G & G 12 and Sunday School from 10 sinful nature. For I have the ing G, 7-9 PM, at First Bap- Bakery and Cafe. Our website to 11. world. Prayer requests call desire to do what is good, but tist Church-Blairsville. If you PM. You may call for more in- is www.WelcomingLight.org We are a small country 706-671-7988. If Jesus speaks I cannot carry it out" (Romans have any questions, email formation, Monday-Wednes- where you can learn about our church with a heritage of over to your heart send any love of- 7:18). The power to change only crfbcb@windstream.net or day, 10-3 at 706-896-2818. Mission, Vision and Beliefs. 191 years. Welcome one and fering to P.O. Box 394, Faircomes from God's grace. We call 706-781-6288. NT(Sep2,Z1)CA Don’t miss this one! T(Sept2,A2)JT N(Sep2,Z2)CA all! N(Sep2,Z2)CA mont, GA 30139. N(Sep2,Z1)CA
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7B GEORGE JACKIE R. COLWELL MICHAEL OLEN THOMPSON Mrs. Jackie R. Colwell, ADRIAN PARROTT Mr. George Olen Thomp- age 82, of Blairsville, GA, passed away on August 30, 2026. Jackie Mr. Michael Adrian Par- son, age 92, of Hamilton Road, rott, age 77, of Gumlog Circle, Blairsville, GA, passed away was a beloved mother, grand- mother, great-grandmother, sister Blairsville, passed away on peacefully on Friday, August Thursday, August 27, 2026, fol- 28, 2026, at his home following and aunt. She was born on Feb- ruary 17, 1944, to Cecil and Wil- lowing a brief illness. Mr. Parrott an extended illness. Mr. Thomp- was born on February 18, 1949 FLORA LEONA BEAVER ALEJANDRO TOMMY “CHRIS” son was born on November 15, lene (Jackson) Rich. She retired ROBERTO DE ZAYAS from Union County School Sys- in Talladega, AL, the son of the Mrs. Flora Leona Beaver GIBSON 1933, in Blairsville, GA, the late James Archer Parrott and the Mr. Alejandro Roberto son of the late John Clayburn tem. Jackie dedicated many years age 89 of Briar Cove Rd. Mor- Mr. Tommy “Chris” Gib- to the school system, where she late Mary Mitchell Polk. Michael ganton passed away peacefully De Zayas, age 79, of Blairsville, son age 47 of Gibson Hill Hia- Thompson and the late Zadie was a loving and caring father, GA, passed away peacefully, sur- Nicholson Thompson. George enjoyed interacting with all the surrounded by her loving family wassee passed away peacefully students and staff. Jackie was a grandfather, brother, and friend. on Saturday August 29, 2026 in rounded by his loving family, on surrounded by his loving family was a loving and caring husband, He enjoyed watching Nascar and Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at father, grandfather, and great member of Harmony Grove Bapthe Pruitt Health Care following on Sunday August 30, 2026 at tist Church. spending time with his family. an extended illness. Mrs. Bea- his home following an extended grandfather. He enjoyed golfing, Michael was preceded in death illness. Mr. De Zayas was born his home following an extended Jackie was devoted to her ver was born on June 5, 1937 illness. Mr. Gibson was born on rabbit hunting, raising beagles, by his parents; brother, Jimmy in June 1947, the son of the late and loved spending time with grandchildren and great-grandin Blairsville, GA., the daughter September 4, 1978 in Hiawas- children. She was an excellent Polk; son, Michael Weldon; and of the late William Wade Tilson Roberto and Delia De Zayas. He his family and grandchildren. grandson, Cole Weldon. Mr. Par- was a loving, caring and devoted see, GA., the son of Tommy Vir- cook. Her servant’s heart led her and the late Lola Bell Tilson. gil Gibson and the late Donna George was preceded in death rott was of the Baptist faith. father, son, grandfather, brother to help people in any way she Flora was a lifelong resident of Charlene Shook Gibson. He was by his parents; brothers, Earl could. Jackie loved to travel and Surviving Mr. Parrott are Union and Fannin Counties. She and uncle. Mr. De Zayas was of Thompson, Hoyt Thompson, a native and lifelong resident of spend time with her family, who his best friend, Maxine Gant of was a loving and caring mother, the Catholic faith, above all he Charles Thompson; sisters, Inez will be remembered for the love Towns County. Chris was a lov- will remember her as a caring Blairsville, GA; three daughters: sister, grandmother and great ing father, son, brother and uncle. Townsend, Anne Cody, Betty and fun-loving matriarch. She en- Ashley Brooke Reed of Lincoln, grandmother. She loved growing he gave, the memories he created Roberts, Sylvia Thompson, and and the lasting impact he had on Chris found his happy place in joyed spending time outdoors and AL, Mary Webb of Huntsville, flowers, gardening and spending the woods. He loved hunting and Norma Johnston. Mr. Thompson maintaining her lawn. Past times AL, Sherry Barnett of Talladega, time with her family and friends. the lives of those who knew him. was of the Catholic faith. Surviving Mr. De Zayas most of all spending time with included Nascar, special outings AL; one son, Scott Parrott of She loved children dearly, espe- Surviving Mr. Thomp- with friends and sharing stories Haleburg, AL; two sisters, Cin- are his daughter, Monica De his family which he loved dearly. cially her grandchildren and great son are his loving wife and best of her childhood memories. die Brewer of Munford, AL, Te- Zayas; son and daughter-in-law, He was preceded in death by his friend of sixty years, Fidelis grandchildren. She was preceded mother Charlene and a brother, She was preceded in death resa Harris of Cropwell, AL; one in death by her beloved husband, Alejandro and Emoe De Zayas; Thompson of Blairsville, GA; brothers, Ben De Zayas (wife Shannon Kirby. Chris was a by her husband, Vaughn Colwell; brother, Donald Parrott of Talla- Fred Waco Beaver, a daughter, two sons, George Thompson, Jr. parents, Cecil and Willene Rich; dega, AL; and grandchildren, and Patricia Nespolini) and Leon member of Lower Hightower of Dalton, GA, Scotty Thomp- Lannette Cole, a brother, Louis Baptist Church. brothers, Bennie Rich and Sid- great grandchildren. Tilson and a sister, Bonnie Wat- Brunett; grandchildren: Carlos son of Blairsville, GA; daugh- Hernandez, Gabriel Hernandez, Surviving Chris are one ney “Sid” Rich; and sister, Dobie There are no services son. Mrs. Beaver was of the Bap- ter, Cynthia Jones of Blairsville, Brackett. planned at this time. Amanda Gonzalez and Kevin son, Micha Gibson of Blairsville, GA; eight grandchildren: Gavin tist faith. his father, Tommy Gibson of Hia- She is survived by her Mountain View Funeral Surviving Mrs. Beaver Gonzalez. Many other relatives Thompson, Alaina Clenent, Au- and friends also survive. wassee, one sister and brother in daughter, Gina (Earl) Sullivan; Home of Blairsville is in charge are two daughters and sons in tumn Davis, Luna Thompson, son, Trannis (Misty) Colwell; Memorial services will law, Amanda and Danny Dockery of the arrangements. You may law, Betty and Greg Fernandez Colby Jones, Noah Jones, Strat- daughter-in-law Jennifer Col- be held at a later date. In lieu of of Hiawassee, nieces and neph- ton Mcdougald, Harmony; and sign the family guest book and of Dalton, Michelle Lynn Beaver ews, Samantha Burrell, Trenton well; 5 grandchildren: Kaley send condolences online at www. and Phillip Miller of Dahlonega, flowers, memorials may be made four great grandchildren: Cole- to the Wounded Warrior Project Cole and Jenna Finnegan, many Sullivan, Coleman (Marah) Sul- mountainviewfuneralhome.com. four sons and two daughters in tee, Tommie, Blakely, and Luca. livan, Logan Colwell, Jackson in Mr. De Zayas’ memory. other relatives and friends also Many other relatives and friends law, Zendle and Norma Beaver survive. (Annabelle) Colwell, and Claire Mountain View Funeral also survive. of Morganton, Cecil and Jackie Home of Blairsville is in charge A memorial service will (Khole) Greene; 9 great-grand- Beaver of Morganton, Wendell Funeral services were held children: Oakley Hodge, Kayden of the arrangements. You may be held at a later date and will be on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Beaver of Morganton, Elmer sign the family guest book and announced. Floral donations may Gann, Drake Sullivan, Charlie Beaver of Ellijay, one sister, Ma- at 9 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Sullivan, Saylor Allen, Stella send condolences online at www. be made to Amanda, 1230 Tay- catholic Church with Father Cong rie Tilson of Ellijay, two brothers, mountainviewfuneralhome.com. lor Trail Hiawassee, GA. 30546 Mae Greene, Georgia Colwell, Roy Tilson of Blairsville, Royce Nguyen officiating. Special mu- Hudson Colwell, and Lila Kate or to Micha at 3 Sunset Drive sic was presented by Liz Melatti. Tilson of Copperhill, many Colwell; 5 step-grandchildren: Blairsville, GA 30512 in Chris’s The following gentlemen served grandchildren, great grandchil- Brayden (Haleigh) Snow, Kaylyn memory. as pallbearers: Gavin Thompson, dren, several nieces, nephews, Thompson, Nolan Thompson, Mountain View Funeral Colby Jones, Noah Jones, Caleb many other relatives and friends Bobby Thompson, and Elizabeth also survive. Home of Blairsville is in charge Clenent and Stanton Davis. Mili- Thompson; a sister, Claudine Funeral services were of the arrangements. You may tary Honors will be conducted by (Jimmy) Thomas; and beloved held on Tuesday September 2, sign the family guest book and the North Georgia Honor Guard. aunt, Elouise “Weezy” Sexton. 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Moun- send condolences online at www. Interment followed in the Betha- Many other nieces, nephews, tain View Chapel with Rev. Rex mountainviewfuneralhome.com. ny Baptist Church Cemetery. The cousins and friends. Mashburn officiating. Special family met with friends at the fu- Jackie wanted to give a BARBARA ANN music was presented by Angel neral home on Monday evening special thanks to Union General DEROXTRO Mashburn. The following gentle- from 6-8 PM. Hospital, doctors, nurses and man served as pallbearers, Ray Mountain View Funeral staff.Public Visitation was held Mrs. Barbara Ann DeRox- Beaver, Raymond Beaver, Steven Home of Blairsville is in charge Monday, 31st of August, 2026 tro, age 79, of Ashley Lane, Beaver, Isaiah Dotson, Maddox of the arrangements. You may from 5 PM to 8 PM at Cochran- Blairsville, passed away peace- Hughes, David Newton and Jeff sign the family guest book and McDaniel Funeral Home & Cre- fully on Saturday, August 29, Barnes. Interment followed in LEIGH-ANNE O’HARA send condolences online at www. matory Blairsville Chapel. 2026 in Sonshine Manor folthe Beaver Family Cemetery. The Ms. Leigh-Anne O’Hara, mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Services for Mrs. Jackie lowing an extended illness. Mrs. family met with friends at the fu- age 65, of Tilly Farm Road, Elli- Colwell was held on Tuesday, DeRoxtro was born on October neral home on Monday evening jay, GA, passed away peacefully September 1, 2026, at 2 PM at 10, 1946 in Middletown, OH, from 6-9:00 pm. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Harmony Grove Baptist Church the daughter of the late Robert Mountain View Funeral at her family’s home following with Pastor Scotty Jarrard, Jerry Margerum and the late Bethel Home of Blairsville is in charge an extended illness. Ms. O’Hara Carnes, and Edward Grant of- Schultz Margerum. Barbara was of the arrangements. You may was born on June 27, 1961, in ficiating. Burial followed at a loving and caring mother, sissign the family guest book and Woodbury, NJ, the daughter of Harmony Grove Baptist Church ter and grandmother. She loved send condolences online at www. the late John O’Hara and the late RONALD SCOTT Cemetery in Blairsville. painting, reading, attending the mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Lorraine Sipple O’Hara. Leigh- BOUCHARD The following gentlemen Senior Center, Oasis and most of Anne was a loving and caring and ladies will serve as pallbear- all her Friday night get-togethers Harmony Grove sister and aunt. She enjoyed bak- ing and loved taking care of her Mr. Ronald Scott Boucha- rd, age 56 of Hiawassee, GA, ers; Coleman Sullivan, Kaley Sullivan, Logan Colwell, Claire with all of her sidekicks. She was truly a friend to everyone. She Baptist Children’s fur baby, Lacy. Ms. O’Hara was passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in Colwell, and Cory Thomas. Jackson Colwell will serve as was preceded in death by her be- preceded in death by her parents; loved husband, Richard DeRox- Clothing Ministry and brothers, William O’Hara, the Union County Nursing Home pallbearer in spirit, although he tro in 2025; and a son, Robert The Children’s Clothing Timothy O’Hara, and John (Jack) following an extended illness. will not be able to attend due to Fredrick Koetter. Barbara was of O’Hara. Leigh-Anne was of the Mr. Bouchard was born on No- military service. The following the Christian faith. Ministry at Harmony Grove JUDITH SUPINIE gentlemen will serve as honorary Baptist Church (1008 Town Christian faith. vember 17, 1969, in Miami, FL, Surviving Barbara are one Surviving Ms. O’Hara the son of the late Estelle Ad- Judith Supinie, age 74, pallbearers; Charles Rich, Jerry daughter, Lori Ann Koetter of Creek School Road, Blairs- dock. Ronald was a carpenter for Rich, Bobby Rich, Ricky Rich, Blairsville; one son and daugh- are her sisters-in-law, Eileen passed away at her home in ville) is open to the commu- many years. Mr. Bouchard was Blairsville, GA on Saturday, and Larry Rich. ter-in-law, Richard and Deborah O’Hara of Blairsville, GA, Dawn nity by appointment only. O’Hara of Swedesboro, NJ; niec- preceded in death by his mother. August 22, 2026. Judy was born Cochran-McDaniel Fu- DeRoxtro of Brooksville, FL; If there is a need for es and nephews: Amy Scheetz Surviving Mr. Bouchard on December 4, 1951, in Law- neral Home is honored to serve one brother, Robert Margerum of children or teen clothes, please of New Jersey, Keith O’Hara of are his children: Owen Boucha- renceville, IL, the daughter of the family of Jackie R. Colwell. Boca Raton, FL; three grandchilcontact the church office at New Jersey, Jennifer Mayer of rd of Hiawassee, GA, Makayla Betty Lou Higginbotham Supinie You may sign the guest regis- dren, Regina, Jeffery and Leah; 706-835-1449 and leave a Blairsville, GA, Ryan O’Hara of Bouchard of Hiawassee, GA, and and the late Frank Supinie. Judy ter and send condolences to the all of her friends in Blairsville; message. One of our volun- New Jersey, Kristie Benntley of Mason Allen of Hiawassee, GA; retired as a teacher with the Bo- family at www.cochranmcdaniel. many other relatives and friends Blairsville, GA, Tara Applegate and two grandchildren, Navy and nita Springs (FL) School System com. also survive. teers will contact you as soon as possible. N(Sep2,Z1)CA of New Jersey, Shawn O’Hara of Josie. Other relatives and many with thirty-six years of service. As per Barbara’s wishes, Blairsville; and several cousins, great and great-great nieces and friends also survive. Mr. Bouchard was a hard- She was a loving and caring daughter, sister and aunt, and Shady Grove no services are planned. The family will have a private service Loving Church nephews. Many other relatives working man who loved his chil- was very close to her family and UMC Fundraiser later. In lieu of flowers the family Blessed is our wonderful and friends also survive. dren with his whole heart. many friends. She was preceded Shady Grove United requests that donations may be church, Day of Grace Baptist A memorial service will be A memorial service will be in death by her father, Frank Su- Methodist Church is taking made to the Union County Senior Church, 269 Saw Mill Road. held at a later date and will be an- held at a later date and will be an- pinie; and her sister-in-law, Lori Center, which was very dear to nounced. orders for their Rada Cutlery Offering a great message ev- nounced. Supinie. Judy was a member of her heart in her memory. Mountain View Funeral Mountain View Funeral St. Francis of Assisi Catholic fundraiser and will continue ery Sunday; Sunday School Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge Home of Blairsville is in charge Church in Blairsville. She was an throughout the year. Home of Blairsville is in charge starts at 10 AM; Church Ser- of the arrangements. You may of the arrangements. You may avid reader and bridge player and Contact JoAnn Hamby of the arrangements. You may vice at 11 AM. Please join us sign the family guest book and sign the family guest book and was very active in her church. at 706-781-4828 for more in- sign the family guest book and for God’s love that will stay in send condolences online at www. send condolences online at www. She was also a longtime member formation; please leave a mes- send condolences online at www. your heart all week. N(Sep2,Z2)CA mountainviewfuneralhome.com. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. of a German Club and tutored sage. NT(Sep2,Z2)CA mountainviewfuneralhome.com. many students in math. Surviving Judy are her mother, Betty Supinie of Law- MOUNTAIN VIEW FUNERAL renceville, IL; her sister, Anne Oker of Lawrenceville, IL; two brothers, Andy Supinie of Wich- HOME & CREMATORY ita, KS (companion Tina Neeley) and John Supinie (Marcia Mar- Blairsville 706-745-2156 / Hiawassee 706-896-6000 DISTINCTIVE SERVICE AT MODERATE COST tinez) of Lawrenceville, IL. She Murphy 828-837-9599 / Blue Ridge 706-632-5968 Mountain View Funeral Home & Crematory is also survived by her nieces McCaysville 706-492-3321 was built to Honor our Lord, Jesus Christ and nephews: Joe (Amber) Oker, Charlie (Chelsea) Oker, Tim Celebrating Life & Treasuring Every Memory Before building Mountain View Funeral Home, we made a (Heather) Supinie, Julie (An- drew) Scherer, Amy Jachino and commitment to God, our family, friends and community Nick (Katie) Jachino; and many Donald Eugene Tietz Donald L. Kisselburg to lower funeral prices and be the most reasonable funeral other relatives and friends. 08/20/2026 08/25/2026 A funeral Mass will be home in the area, while providing quality merchandise and held on Thursday, September 3, Blue Ridge Chapel McCaysville Chapel distinctive service. We promise to keep this commitment, 2026, at 11 AM at the St. Fran- cis of Assisi Catholic Church Ricky Garland Pittman Sharon Arp and our prices will be the lowest in the tri-state area, in Blairsville with Father Cong 08/25/2026 08/25/2026 no matter what the cost... Guaranteed. Please Nguyen officiating. Special mu- sic will be presented by Liz Mel- Blue Ridge Chapel McCaysville Chapel feel free to call or come by and compare prices and quality. atti. The Mass will be streamed Charles and Denise and available on the church Ralph Clark Grice Edward Phillip Marx Facebook page. In lieu of flowers No Additional Charge for use of our chapel for funeral services if you wish, the family requests 08/26/2026 08/25/2026 No Charge for register book • No Charge for acknowledgement cards that donations may be made to Blue Ridge Chapel Murphy Chapel No Additional Charge for more than one night visitations St. Francis of Assisi Catholic No Charge for local hospital or home removals. Church in Judy’s memory. Inter- Karen Ann Rauch ment will follow at a later date in DigniÀed Service to All, Regardless of Financial Situations. the Lawrenceville City Cemetery 08/26/2026 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY CHARLES & DENISE LONG in Lawrenceville, IL. Hiawassee Chapel OVER 57 YEARS EXPERIENCE Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge 119 Murphy Hwy. • Blairsville, GA • (706) 745-3456 of the arrangements. You may Two Families - sign the family guest book and Obit Line 706-745-9991 send condolences online at www. One Heart to Serve Online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com mountainviewfuneralhome.com.
Page 8B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Automobiles, Rentals, Real Estate, Pets, Services, Help Wanted, Legals, & More... You’ll find it all in the North Georgia News Classifieds. Deadline for ALL Classifieds Ads is 4 p.m. on Friday Deadline for ALL Real Estate Display Ads is Noon on Thursday CALL 706-745-6343 or email cs@nganews.com TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! LICENSED MASSAGE REAL ESTATE WANTED THERAPIST. Full Time/Part Time. Top Pay. Blairsville Re- LEGAL ADS This 21st day of August, 2026. BY: Bonnie Marie Carlin 3 DeSota Street petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections should be sworn to before a notary public or Asheville, NC 28806 before a probate court clerk, and filing fees TWO BEAUTIFUL CREEK JUNK CARS: We pay CASH sort Spa. Apply in person. 366 ATTORNEY: Cary D. Cox must be tendered with your objections, unless FRONT RV/CAMPER LOTS: for junk cars. Call (706) 379- Paradise Road, Blairsville, GA. NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Larry Bing Whittington PO Box 748 Blairsville, GA 30514 you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- tact probate court personnel for the required located at 9200 Murphy Hwy 3190. N(Jun21,UFN) Any day, 10 - 6 p.m. 706-745- All creditors of the estate of Larry Bing Whit- N(Aug26,Sept2,9,16) amount of filing fees. If any objections are Blairsville, Ga 30512. Each 7483. N(Sept28,ufn) tington, deceased, late of Union County, filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later WANTED - TOP DOLLAR Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their OPEN POSITION – ENOTAH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT – date. If no objections are filed, the petition may lot is 1.3 acres with minimal demands to the undersigned according to $100 A DAY JUVENILE JUDGE be granted without a hearing. restrictions. Power and Water PAID: Blairsville Pick- law, and all persons indebted to law, and all The Superior Court Judges of the Enotah Ju- Kristin Stephens Stanley er’s Barn. Antiques, Clean persons indebted to said estate are required dicial Circuit are appointing a Juvenile Judge Judge of the Probate Court installed. Septic system will be CASH plus, to make immediate payment to the Personal to preside over juvenile court proceedings in By: Charla Dyer installed once under contract. Furniture, Collectibles, Representative. Lumpkin, Towns, Union, and White Counties. Deputy Clerk Price: $110,000 each lot. For Pottery, Art, Glassware, Farm This 28th day of August, 2026. The appointment is for a four-year term, be- 5 Courthouse St., Suite 8 LUNCH! BY: Wendy Suzanne Jordan ginning January 1, 2027. Applicants must be at Blairsville, GA 30512 more information, please con- Equipment & More! Gold 1695 Mission Road least 30 years of age, a member in good stand- Address tact Hunter Kelley at 706-994- & Silver Coins, Jewelry. Marianna, FL 32448 Rhonda Michele May ing with the State Bar of Georgia, a citizen of (706) 439-6006 Georgia for at least 3 years, and have practiced Telephone Number 6767. N(Sept2,9,16,23) Top dollar paid! 1 mile on 671 Ashley Circle 19/129 South of the Square! Work the Harvest at Dothan, AL 36305 law for at least 5 years. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to N(Sep2) Superior Court Chief Judge Joy R. Parks, 325 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Crane Creek Vineyards N(Sept2,9,16,23) 706-745-0097. N(Jun5,ufn) FOR SALE Riley Road, Room 212, Dahlonega, GA 30533, TO HOLD A LOCATION AND DESIGN PUBLIC NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS or email to mmcdonald@georgiacourts.gov. HEARING OPEN HOUSE SCRAP CARS WANTED - Young Harris, GA IN RE: ESTATE OF Gerald David Sullivan All creditors of the estate of Gerald David Sul- Juvenile Court Judges are appointed by the For PIs 122200-, 0018219, 0018220. Top Dollar Paid including pick- Superior Court Judges of the circuit to four- Union County livan, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, FOR SALE BIG GREEN up - call or text Todd at Tank Contact Jac at are hereby notified to render in their demands year terms. Full-time judges cannot practice law while holding office. On Tuesday, October 06, 2026 at Union County Recreation Department (Sports Center) (704) 759-6542 EGG- Large size mounted on Town USA - 706.633.6072 to the undersigned according to law, and all NT(Sept2) 519 Industrial Blvd, Blairsville, GA 30512, the persons indebted to law, and all persons in- Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) wheels with all the accessories leave msg. N(Jul15,ufn) debted to said estate are required to make NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY will hold a Public Hearing Open House conknown to mankind. $900. Con- immediate payment to the Personal Repre- VALUE AT MORE THAN $75.00 cerning the proposed project. This project protact Roger at 706-838-4851. GAINFULLY EMPLOYED sentative. Pursuant to O.C.G.A 17-5-54, any party claim- poses to widen and reconstruct State Route BLAIRSVILLE COMFORT This 28th day of August, 2026. ing an interest in the following property is (SR) 11/United States Highway (US) 19/US N(Aug26,Sept2) 36-YEAR-OLD MALE INN hiring full and part time BY: Jeffrey Joseph Sullivan hereby notified that on August 6th, 2026 said 129/Murphy Highway (SR 11/Murphy Hwy) in SEEKING TO RENT A PET- 374 West Duck Street property was located in the evidence room Union County from Blue Ridge Street in Blairs- FOR SALE ON LAKE NOT- FRIENDLY ROOM. Willing - Front Desk, Housekeeping, Front Royal, VA 22630 of the Union County Sheriff’s Office in Union ville north to SR 325/Nottely Dam Road/Ivylog Breakfast and Laundry posi- ATTORNEY: Christopher Chapman County, Georgia. Road for a distance of approximately 8.7 miles TELY. Double slip wood to assist with cleaning, cooking, 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite 202 Item The purpose of this Location and Public Hear- & steel dock with sundeck, yard work, chores, etc. Please tions. Come in to 90 Fisher Savannah, GA 31406 1. Remington model 742. Serial number: ing Open House is to provide the public with an $32,500. 44’x30’ platform call/text Jeremy at 706-994- Street or call 706-745-6844. N(Sept2,9,16,23) B7035xxx 2. Stevens model 311. No serial number. opportunity to view the project, ask questions, and comment on the project. Relocation as- (35’x30’ roof over 2 10’x26’ 5985. N(Apr1,ufn) N(Aug19-Sept23) NOTICE IN RE: ESTATE OF Charles Bruce Dillinger 3. Taurus model 85. Serial number: JP67xxx sistance will be discussed at the Open House. 4. Iver Johnson rifle. Serial number: 015xxx The Open House will be held from 5:00 p.m. to slips & 12’x30’ sundeck). In- MOUNTAIN VIEW OIL All creditors of the estate of Charles Bruce 5. Mossberg 100. Serial number: BA172xxx 7:00 p.m. It will be informal, and the public is cludes boat lift & 25’ walk- WANTED: INDIAN ARTI- CHANGE NOW HIRING Dillinger, deceased, late of Union County, 6. Browning model 22. No serial number. invited to attend anytime during these hours. Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their 7. Model 98 rifle. Serial number: 2xxx. There will be no formal presentation. A court way with wheels. Complete FACTS-Individual pcs or whole Full-Time Oil Change Ser- demands to the undersigned according to 8. Rg 40 revolver. Serial number: R075xxx. reporter will be available to allow the public an with ladder, bumpers, cleats & collections. Fair prices paid. law, and all persons indebted to law, and all Any party claiming an interest in said property opportunity to make verbal comments about dockbox. Call 404-849-8171. Call or text-Gen0 @ 828-371- vice Technicians: Previous persons indebted to said estate are required is hereby further notified that you must file the project. mechanical or automotive oil to make immediate payment to the Personal a claim in accordance with O.C.G.A. 17-5-54 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Informa- N(Aug26,Sept2) 5282. N(Sept2-Oct7) Representative. within 30 days of the fourth publication of the tion: The meeting site is accessible to persons change experience is beneficial This 28th day of August, 2026. Notice of Disposition of Unclaimed Property in with disabilities. Accommodations for people BY: Charles Derick Dillinger 7X14 - 2 AXLE TRAILER but will train the right indi- the North Georgia News by serving said claim with disabilities can be arranged with advance PETS PO Box 1492 to the undersigned seizing agency by certi- notice by contacting the District Planning with Aluminum sides, also vidual willing to learn. Must Blairsville, GA 30514 fied mail, return receipt requested. The serial and Programming Liaison District Planning & ATTORNEY: Rebecca Kendrick numbers to the above listed items have been Programming Engineer Elizabeth Johnson at Suzuki. $650. Nice, only 4335 speak, read and write English, PO Box 1286 partially hidden, owner must be able to prove EJohnson@dot.ga.gov or 770-533-7250. FOR miles. 706-745-7140. N(Sept2) valid driver license, 18yrs old Blairsville, GA 30514 which case the items were seized from or Comments will be accepted concerning this or older. Work hours are Tues- N(Sept2,9,16,23) have valid proof of purchase indicating the project until Friday, October 23, 2026. Written SALE complete serial number. statements may be submitted to: Sat, 9a-5p (closed Sun-Mon). YARD SALE Very clean operation. Apply in IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA IN RE: ESTATE OF __Todd Smith_Deputy Sheriff Shawn Dyer,Sheriff Union County, Ga Amber Phillips State Environmental Administrator Georgia Department of Transportation person 10am-5pm, Tues-Sat at ARNOLD B. EMERY 378 Beasley Street 600 West Peachtree Street, NW – 16th Floor MULTI-FAMILY YARD UKC Registered Rat Terrier Puppies 249 Blue Ridge Hwy, Blairs- DECEASED Blairsville, Ga. 3051 Atlanta, Georgia 30308 ESTATE NO. 2025-157 (706)439-6066- Copies of the project’s environmental docu- SALE. Friday, September 4th ville, GA. Resumes can also be PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) ment will be available for review at the Open & Saturday, September 5th. Have had 1st emailed to: tankshot14@gmail. NOTICE House and can be made available to the public Worming and To whom it may concern: IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY at any time by sending a request to the ad- 8-2 both days. Fishing poles, com NT(Aug19-Oct7) Stephen H. Fales, Anthony J. Brown, William STATE OF GEORGIA dress listed above. cast iron, exercise equipment 1st Parvo Shot Clair Brown, Linnea Brown Ricker, and Other IN RE: ESTATE OF The environmental document will also be (5 way) Interested Persons: PERCY JAMES FILLER available for review 15 days before the date & much more. Rain or shine. Males $300 HELP WANTED: Construction [List here all heirs who have not acknowl- DECEASED of the Open House at the GDOT District 1, Area Outdoor only. We will be pull- Females $400 Company looking for reliable edged service] ESTATE NO. 2026-47 Office, located at 942 Albert Reid Road, Cleve- James Ruel Fales has petitioned to be appoint- NOTICE land, GA 30528. ing lots of items out of build- and experienced carpenters ed administrator(s) of the estate of Arnold B. IN RE: The Petition to Probate Will in Solemn The displays at the Public Hearing Open House ing. This will be the last yard Call 706-835-5218 and helpers. Pay based on ex- Emery deceased, of said county. All interested persons are hereby notified to show cause Form in the above-referenced estate having been duly filed. will be available for 10 days for review after the Open House at the location stated above. sale of the season for us. 651 perience. Call 706-897-3556 if why said petition should not be granted. All [For use if an heir is required to be served by In addition, comments resulting from the Open Honaker Rd., Blairsville, GA interested. NT(Aug26,Sept2) objections to the petition must be in writing, publication] House will be available at this location when setting forth the grounds of any such objec- TO: James Allen Filler available 30512. N(Sept2) COMMERCIAL HIRING IMMEDIATELY - tions, and must be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before September 14, 2026. [List here all heirs having unknown addresses to be served by publication] N(Sept2) ESTATE SALE, Friday, Sept 4th and Saturday, Sept 5th from RENTALS Model Modular is looking to add 2 employees to join our crew! BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections This is to notify you to file objection, if there is any, to the petition to probate will in solemn form, in this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before 8 am-3 pm. 1732 Crump Creek No experience needed. Travel should be sworn to before a notary public or September 8, 2026. Rd. Clothing: Large selection ABLE MINI STORAGE. is required and all expenses before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the of excellent, gently-used ap- 5x10 & 10x15 available. Call paid, plus per diem. We build you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections parel. Ladies jeans, size 5-12. 706-745-8834. N(Apr24-ufn) Cleanrooms, Modular Offices tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Shoes: Brand new ladies boots Blairsville typically in the Southeastern filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later must be tendered with your objections, unless and tennis shoes. Size 8 and region of US. Learn a great trade date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- tact probate court personnel for the required Picker’s Barn 9. Bedding: Clean, comfort- and work with a great group of Kristin Stephens Stanley amount of filing fees. If any objections are able linens and bedding items. guys. Pay starts $22 - $30 an Judge of the Probate Court filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later By: Charla Dyer date. If no objections are filed, the petition may Jewelry. Household: Kitchenware, decor, dishes and everyday essentials. Furniture. 2012 & Storage hour. Call me at 706-897-3114. NT(Aug26,Sep2) Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Blairsville, GA 30512 be granted without a hearing. Kristin Stephens Stanley Judge of the Probate Court Address from 50/month By:Charla Dyer Harley Davidson Ultra Classic $ RELIABLE LABORER/ (706) 439-6006 Telephone Number Deputy Clerk of the Probate Court 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Screaming Eagle-$12,000 firm. PUNCH-OUT PERSON N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) Blairsville, GA 30512 706-455-8502. N(Sept2) 10x10 thru 20x30 NEEDED. Reliable transpor- tation to and from job sites is IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Address (706) 439-6006 STATE OF GEORGIA Telephone Number BARN SALE. Women’s clothes, furniture, tools, small You can sell from your unit! required. Call 762-349-1551 or IN RE: ESTATE OF FRANKIE MAE CARNEY N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) appliances. 8 AM to 4 PM on (706) 745-0097 email Len.fineline@gmail.com DECEASED ESTATE NO. 2026-98 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA 25 Years of Experience Now Accepting Property Listings September 4th and 5th. 4156 19/129 South of Square 1.25 miles! NT(Sept2-23) PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION IN RE: ESTATE OF Swallows Creek Rd, Hiawas- NOTICE PATRICIA E. PENNEY www.georgiaemr.com WHAT YOU’LL DO AS A To whom it may concern: DECEASED see. NT(Sept2) HOUSE CLEANER: Main- William Franklin Carney has petitioned to be ESTATE NO. 2025-71 (877) 307-3367 ESTATE SALE – Saturday RESIDENTIAL tain a clean, organized, and appointed administrator(s) of the estate of Frankie Mae Carney deceased, of said county. NOTICE [For discharge from office and all liability] and Sunday – Andrews NC. RENTALS comfortable home environment through reliable and thorough (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF JOHN W. PENNEY AND CATHY P. CABIN RENTAL September 5 and 6. 8am till and/or grant of certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons BIGGS FOR DISCHARGE AS EXECUTORS OF THE IN BEAUTIFUL WEARS VALLEY 3pm both days. Less than ½ 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE housekeeping services. Perform are hereby notified to show cause why said ESTATE OF PATRICIA E. PENNEY, DECEASED. To Whom it may concern: mile from the intersection of HOMES: In Union & Fannin routine cleaning tasks such as petition should not be granted. All objections This is to notify you to file an objection, if there GATEWAY TO THE SMOKIES dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, to the petition must be in writing, setting forth is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this Main Street and Junaluska. Counties. Also a 2BD House for the grounds of any such objections, and must Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before September GATLINBURG—PIGEON FORGE This house was built in the rent. Units can be GRFA. Hud mopping, cleaning bathrooms be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- 14, 2026. and kitchens, and maintaining fore September 14, 2026. BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the 1960s and is a time capsule. Approved. Call (706) 633-6436 or BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the Incredible MCM furniture, 1-828-837-4861. N(Feb11,UFN) general household areas. Assist petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections grounds of any such objections. All objections lamps, dishes, Sterling Silver, with laundry, changing linens, should be sworn to before a notary public or should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Mint unopened rolls of 1950s FOR RENT: Blairsville, 3/2, organizing rooms, and other before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless Franklin half dollars, coins, An- just renovated, LR and den, light household cleaning duties must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- tact probate court personnel for the required tiques, artwork, books, tools, paved road, 5 miles to town. as needed. Ensure that cleaning tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are log splitter, mower, Christmas $2200/mo. Tina McDaniel. 706- supplies and household areas are amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may stuff, craft items. Thousands of 713-6004. GA Licensed real properly maintained and kept date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. items in the kitchen and garage estate agent with Remax Town in good condition. Run errands be granted without a hearing. Kristin Stephens Stanley Kristin Stephens Stanley Judge of the Probate Court alone. Pictures on TnT Estate and Country. N(Sept2) and all. The job is 3 hours/day, 5 Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer Sales Facebook page. 40+ signs By: Charla Dyer Deputy Clerk days a week, and the pay is $25 Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 will lead you right to the house. 828-557-8223. 49 years’ expe- HELP WANTED per hour. You can email me via 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Blairsville, GA 30512 Blairsville, GA 30512 Address lawrenceejob@gmail.com for Address (706) 439-6006 rience selling in both the US LUCKY DOG HOSPITAL- more information. N(Sept2-Oct7) (706) 439-6006 Telephone Number and Europe. 25% commission. Telephone Number N(Sep2) ITY NOW HIRING: Lucky’s, No early birds, or early sales. Sammies Subs, Teppanyaki WANTED PERSONAL AS- N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY COVE CREEK COTTAGE: Cozy, unique setting next to Cove Creek, Don’t throw anything away be- Time, Blairsville Restaurant, SISTANT/ ADMIN HELP. NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS STATE OF GEORGIA 2 BR/2 BA, fireplace, hot tub, IN RE: ESTATE OF Madeline Rousseau IN RE: ESTATE OF fore calling TnT. NT(Sept2) and Pizza Belly Hiring for Line The work is a combination of All creditors of the estate of Madeline Rous- JOHN MILTON PENNEY king bed, private yet convenient, sleeps six. Cooks, Bartenders, Managers, personal assistant, administrator seau, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, DECEASED are hereby notified to render in their demands ESTATE NO. 2025-72 FOR MORE INFO & and housekeeper suitable for a PERSONALS Servers, Apply in Person at res- taurant of your choice. NT(Mar18,ufn) self-motivated and organized to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons in- NOTICE [For discharge from office and all liability] RESERVATIONS CALL... LOOKING FOR HIGHLY PART TIME HELP WANT- person. Full or part-time. Must be a non-smoker with reliable debted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Repre- sentative. PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF JOHN W. PENNEY AND CATHY In The Smokies Cabin Rentals P. BIGGS FOR DISCHARGE AS EXECUTORS OF This 14th day of August, 2026. THE ESTATE OF JOHN MILTON PENNEY, DE- SKILLED POOL PLAYER to ED: Need part time office transportation. Retirees wel- BY: Elizabeth R. Wagner CEASED. share time on my 9-ft Diamond help/salesperson for the Towns come! Private home off Owl 16445 County Road 31, Lot 80 To Whom it may concern: Pro. Toby Perry. (727) 433- County area. Send resume to Creek Rd near Brasstown Bald. Centre, AL 35960 ATTORNEY: G. William Little, III This is to notify you to file an objection, if there is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this Ask for Cove 1713. N(Sep2) northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail (678) 708-6010. NT(Sep2-16) 4805 Old Highway 76 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before September 14, 2026. Creek Cottage .com or stop by the North Geor- SENIOR MALE WANTS gia News office at 266 Cleve- WORK EXCHANGE OP- N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the 800-893-7274 AFFECTIONATE SENIOR land Street, Blairsville, GA. PORTUNITY. Great oppor- NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS FEMALE COMPANION to IN RE: ESTATE OF Marion Joseph West, Jr. tunity to live and work for a All creditors of the estate of Marion Joseph share home - home is 4 minutes FULL TIME EXPERIENCED non-profit in the beautiful North from UGH & Doctors offices. CARPENTER: Must have Georgia Mountains. Looking Let us meet for breakfast at a transportation and must be on for service minded people to West, Jr., deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all PART-TIME restaurant of your choice, my time. Starting pay $19/hour, work in housekeeping, grounds HELP WANTED persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal treat! 706-835-2013 N(Sept2) must be able to do finish work. maintenance, construction and Representative. Call 706-400-0316. NT(Aug12,ufn) customer service. This is a fam- This 14th day of August, 2026. BY: Darla Lin Conner ily-oriented environment. Back- ground check and drug testing 166 Skeenah Gap Road Blairsville, GA 30512 N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) Towns County Herald required. Your work week in NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS exchange for room, board and a small stipend. Please call (678) 708-6010. NT(Sept2-16) IN RE: ESTATE OF Timothy Gerard Franco All creditors of the estate of Timothy Ge- rard Franco, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their Office Assistance BANKRUPTCY demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons indebted to said estate are required Ad Salesperson to make immediate payment to the Personal DEBT RELIEF Representative. This 14th day of August, 2026. BY: Madelyn Eddings News Reporter THE LANCE 3842 Cara Lane Zephyrhills, FL 33541 LAW FIRM, P.C. ATTORNEY: Daniel J. Davenport Send resume to WE BUY & TRADE GUNS FREE PO Box 923 Blairsville, GA 30514 northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail.com GUNSMITH ON SITE N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) CONSULTATION NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS newsjarrard@gmail.com IN RE: ESTATE OF Joseph Jefferson Carlin, III or stop by the 190 BLUE RIDGE STREET, 57 Sears Way All creditors of the estate of Joseph Jeffer- son Carlin, III, deceased, late of Union County, Blairsville, GA 30514 Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their North Georgia News office BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 706-835-1212 demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all at 266 Cleveland Street, (706) 745-GUNS (4867) WE ARE A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY. WE persons indebted to said estate are required HELP PEOPLE FILE FOR BANKRUPTCY RELIEF. to make immediate payment to the Personal Representative. Blairsville, GA 30512
September 2, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9B NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS to make immediate payment to the Personal asp, or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance 10/6/2026 sell at public outcry to the highest certified funds. Insufficient funds will not be provide information, documentation and/or IN RE: ESTATE OF Ronald G. Gratton Representative. eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP bidder for cash: 65 Courthouse Street, Blairs- accepted. Amounts received in excess of the certification of the vesting instructions and All creditors of the estate of Ronald G. Gratton, This 7th day of August, 2026. (1-877-336-2627). ville, Georgia, the following described property winning bid will be refunded to the success- the data required to be reported pursuant to deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are BY: Nancy Hamilton Reynolds N(Aug26,Sept2) situated in Union County, Georgia, to wit: ful purchaser. This property is being sold with FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of hereby notified to render in their demands to 15 Kiloram Way ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LY- express reservation that the sale is subject residential real property to covered transferthe undersigned according to law, and all per- Blairsville, GA 30512 NOTICE ING AND BEING LAND LOT 266, 9TH DISTRICT, to 1) confirmation and audit of the status of ees on or after March 1, 2026. The required sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted ATTORNEY: Cary D. Cox The Legacy Link, Inc. Area Agency on Aging 1ST SECTION, UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA, CON- the loan by the holder of the security deed, 2) information must be provided to the trustee to said estate are required to make immediate PO Box 748 (AAA) is announcing the Request for Propos- TAINING A TOTAL OF 1.700 ACRES AND BE- confirmation that the sale is not prohibited before a deed under power will be issued for payment to the Personal Representative. Blairsville, GA 30514 als (RFP) for the State of Georgia, Fiscal Year ING SHOWN AS TRACT 1 CONTAINING (1.571 under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, 3) procedures covered transfers. The Buyer may be required This 14th day of August, 2026. N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) 2028 (July 1, 2027 – June 30, 2028). We are ACRES), AND TRACT II, CONTAINING (.129 for rescission of sale under O.C.G.A. Section to pay charges associated with the gathering BY: Caleb Lane Kelley accepting Statement(s) of Interest from or- ACRE), AS PER PLAT OF SURVEY BY B. KEITH 9-13-172.1, whereby the Deed Under Power and reporting of information to FinCEN. Addi- 274 Kings Road NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS ganizations September 8 – September 25, ROCHESTER AND ASSOCIATES, INC. RS#1534 and other foreclosure documents may not be tional information regarding these regulations Blairsville, GA 30512 IN RE: ESTATE OF Edwin Gravatt 2026. Please submit a Statement of Interest DATED NOVEMBER 17, 1994 AND RECORDED provided until final confirmation and audit of and the required transferee information and N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) All creditors of the estate of Edwin Gravatt, including your organization’s name, service IN PLAT BOOK 32, PAGE 167, UNION COUNTY, the status of the loan as provided above. certifications can be found at: deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are provided, counties of interest, and contact GEORGIA RECORDS. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2, the name, https://www.federalregister.gov/docu- NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS hereby notified to render in their demands to information. This Statement of Interest should Tax Parcel ID: 070D-026 address and telephone number of the person ments/2024/08/29/2024-19198/anti-money- IN RE: ESTATE OF Harold J. Mull the undersigned according to law, and all per- be emailed directly to Lisa Howard, Con- Being real property commonly known as 305 or entity who shall have full authority to nego- laundering-regulations-for-residential-real- All creditors of the estate of Harold J. Mull, sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted tracts and Quality Director, at Lshoward@ SAW MILL ROAD BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 tiate, amend, or modify all terms of the above- estate-transfers and https://www.fincen.gov/ deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are to said estate are required to make immediate legacylink.org. Respondents will receive the The debt remaining in default, this sale will be described mortgage is as follows: rre-faqs#D_5 hereby notified to render in their demands to payment to the Personal Representative. schedule of events and the full RFP after the made for the purpose of paying the debt and Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, 500 N. Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC as Attorney the undersigned according to law, and all per- This 7th day of August, 2026. Statement of Interest period has closed. Pro- all expenses of this sale including attorney’s State College Blvd., Suites 1030, 1300 & 1400 in Fact for Wesley Cook and Sara Cook sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted BY: Daryle Gravatt posals for one or more of the services listed fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees Orange, CA 92868 , Telephone No.: 800-561- For Foreclosure sale information please conto said estate are required to make immediate 3197 County Road 507 below in the following counties served by The having been given). 4567 tact Vylla Solutions, LLC, P.O. Box 3309, Anapayment to the Personal Representative. Wildwood, FL 34785 Legacy Link, Inc. will be considered: Banks • Said sale will be made subject to the follow- The foregoing notwithstanding, nothing in heim, California 92803, Phone: (888) 313-1969 This 14th day of August, 2026. ATTORNEY: Christopher Chapman Dawson • Forsyth • Franklin • Habersham • ing items which may affect the title to said O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2 shall be construed to TS # 26-41591 BY: Randy James Mull 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite 202 Hall • Hart • Lumpkin • Rabun • Stephens • property: All restrictive covenants, easements require Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC to THIS COMMUNICATION IS FROM A DEBT COL- 87 Devonwood Drive Savannah, GA 31406 Towns • Union • White. Bid opportunities are and rights-of-way appearing of record, if any; negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the LECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY Marion, NC 28752 N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) available for the following services within all zoning ordinances; matters which would Security Deed described herein. INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) the region: Evidence-based wellness services be disclosed by an accurate survey or by an Please be advised that the trustee may require THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS (bids may be to serve individual counties but inspection of the property; all outstanding or entity or trust bidders at this trustee’s sale to N(Aug12-Sept30) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY IN RE: ESTATE OF Danny Lee Brown must provide both programs): Bingocize, and unpaid bills and assessments for street im- FREE STATE OF GEORGIA All creditors of the estate of Danny Lee Brown, Falls-Prevention - A Matter of Balance; Health provements, curbing, garbage, water, sewage IN RE: ESTATE OF deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are Promotion / Disease Prevention Services (to be and public utilities which may be liens upon CYNTHIA JILL WHEELER hereby notified to render in their demands to provided throughout the region in the follow- said property; and any outstanding taxes, DECEASED the undersigned according to law, and all per- ing categories: Nutrition Education, Lifestyle assessments and other liens superior to the ESTATE NO. 2026-135 sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted Management, Physical Activity, and Health security deed being foreclosed hereby. To the PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION NOTICE To whom it may concern: to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Representative. This 7th day of August, 2026. Awareness/Disease Prevention); Senior Cen- ter Services in Towns and/or Union County with all services provided at a location that best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the above-described property is in the posses- sion of the borrower and/or other persons with WOOD PALLETS!! Dustin Wayne Rogers has petitioned to be BY: Matthew Conrad Brown can support all of the following services: Con- the consent and acquiescence of the borrower. appointed administrator(s) of the estate of Cynthia Jill Wheeler deceased, of said county. (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of 3411 Spirit Lake Cutoff Spirit Lake, ID 83869 ATTORNEY: Janna D. Akins gregate Meals and Health Promotion/Disease Prevention activities for older adults’ on-site participation, staging and facilitating delivery Except to the extent that the Holder may bind and obligate Mortgagors to warrant title to the Property under the terms of the Security Deed, North Georgia News bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, PO Box 923 of Home Delivered Meals, and Transportation- conveyance of the Property shall be made and/or grant of certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons Blairsville, GA 30514 N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) Individual-Voucher Services to assist with travel within the county. In addition, complete without any representations or warranties whatsoever, express or implied. All sales are 266 Cleveland Street, are hereby notified to show cause why said intakes and assessments for all services, pre- “as is”, “where is’. petition should not be granted. All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY pare and transmit reports, and store files per the US Department of Health and Human Ser- The entire purchase price is due and payable at the conclusion of the auction in the form of Blairsville, GA the grounds of any such objections, and must Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for vices, Georgia Department of Human Services, be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- Union County, Georgia and Incorporated Areas as required, following all HIPAA compliance NOTICE fore September 8, 2026. The Department of Homeland Security’s Fed- laws. All providers must be fully licensed to BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the eral Emergency Management Agency has is- perform the service being provided and meet petition must be in writing, setting forth the sued a preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map HIPAA compliance requirements. Details for all grounds of any such objections. All objections (FIRM), and where applicable, Flood Insurance the service requirements can be found within should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Study (FIS) report, reflecting proposed flood hazard determinations within Union County, the GA DHS Policy and Manual Management System at https://pamms.dhs.ga.gov/das/ The Union County Substance Abuse Grant Committee is hereby must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- Georgia and Incorporated Areas. These flood hazard determinations may include the ad- hcbs-5300-manual/. NT(Aug12-Sept2) requesting proposals to address the problem of alcohol and drug abuse tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are dition or modification of Base Flood Eleva- tions, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER in Union County. The funds for this grant are made possible by license filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway. Technical information or STATE OF GEORGIA UNION COUNTY fees and tax receipts from alcohol sales in Union County. Applications be granted without a hearing. Kristin Stephens Stanley comments are solicited on the proposed flood hazard determinations shown on the prelimi- Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- tained in a Security Deed given by, Wesley will be available starting on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, and will Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer nary FIRM and/or FIS report for Union County, Georgia and Incorporated Areas. These flood Cook and Sara Cook, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as grantee, as remain available through Friday, September 4, 2026. Questions Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 hazard determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your nominee for Cardinal Financial Company, Limited Partnership, dated 3/28/2022, and regarding applications may be directed to Jennifer Mahan at 706-439- Blairsville, GA 30512 Address community is required to either adopt or show evidence of being already in effect in order to recorded on 3/30/2022, in Book 1306, Page 376, Union County, Georgia Records, as last 6000 or executive@uniongov.com. (706) 439-6006 qualify or remain qualified for participation in assigned to as last assignment to Carrington Telephone Number the National Flood Insurance Program. How- Mortgage Services, LLC by assignment record- $SSOLFDWLRQVZLOOEHDYDLODEOHLQWKH8QLRQ&RXQW&RPPLVVLRQHU¶V2I¿FH ever, before these determinations are effec- ed 4/16/2026 as Instrument No. D2026-001763 N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) tive for floodplain management purposes, you in book 1449, Page 760, conveying the after located at 65 Courthouse Street, Suite 1, Blairsville, GA 30512 or via the NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS will be provided an opportunity to appeal the described property securing the payment of a IN RE: ESTATE OF Robert Marston Reynolds proposed information. For information on the Note in the amount of $379,335.00 with inter- Union County Government Homepage at www.unioncountyga.gov. All creditors of the estate of Robert Marston statutory 90-day period provided for appeals, est thereon as set forth therein. Reynolds, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their as well as a complete listing of the communi- ties affected and the locations where copies NOW, THEREFORE, notice is hereby given that the entire indebtedness has been declared Applications are due by Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 4:30 pm. demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all of the FIRM are available for review, please visit FEMA’s website at https://www.flood- due and payable as provided in said Secu- rity Deed by the Holder, and by virtue of the Late applications will not be accepted. persons indebted to said estate are required maps.fema.gov/fhm/BFE_Status/bfe_main. power of sale and authority vested in it, will on BRIAN WIGHT CON- SCOTT ARMSTRONG DYER’S DEPENDABLE GUY’S JUNK REMOVAL: COMPLETE PLUMBING & UGLY CONCRETE? COVER STRUCTION: Specializing in HOME REPAIR: Fully HOME IMPROVEMENTS: Big or small, we take it all! 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Page 10B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 2, 2026 Crane Creek Vinyards hosted Root & Vine Market Need Blueprints? Great American Green, event planner and business partner The Greenhouse Social, and other vendors teamed up for the Root & Vine Market at Crane Creek West Printing Company Vineyards Sunday, Aug. 23, giving North Georgia residents and visitors a day of shopping, local makers and wine in the mountains. For all your large format printing needs! The market, presented by The Greenhouse Social, ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Farmhouse at Crane Creek 266 Cleveland Street Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek 2 blocks up from the Square on 129 Road in Young Harris. The event featured local vendors offering plants, art, handmade 706-745-6343 goods and other finds against the backdrop of the North westprinting@windstream.net Georgia mountains. As part of the partnership, Great American Green provided synthetic turf and a ‘hole in one’ promotion for the event, giving guests solid, dry footing and a fun experience as they browsed vendors, mingled and enjoyed the vineyard. Root & Vine Market - ‘Hole In One’ For Great American Green, president and CEO of Great event, where people can disthe partnership was a natural American Green. “We’re cover local businesses, find a extension of the company’s honored to partner with The new plant or handmade piece work creating outdoor spaces Greenhouse Social and pro- and enjoy the setting,” said designed to be used, enjoyed vide the turf that will help Steven Crafton of The Greenand shared. create a welcoming space for house Social. “Great American “A good outdoor space people to gather, shop and en- Green has been a great partner should make it easy for peo- joy the day.” in helping us create the kind of ple to gather and enjoy them- “Crane Creek is such a environment we want guests to selves,” said Darryl DuLong, natural setting for this kind of experience.” VFW National Citizenship Education Award Teachers who promote civic contest, you should contact the responsibility, flag etiquette Citizenship Education Chair- and patriotism, and strive to man at VFW Post 7394 by help students develop a better e-mail, vfw7394@outlook. understanding of democratic com for more information. For Full Service Printer Local Teacher Could Be values and beliefs are prime Details Visit: www.vfw.org/ Honored With National VFW candidates for the award. teacheroftheyear. Award, Commander Chuck Nomination forms are The Veterans of Foreign Honaker of the Veterans of due to your local VFW Post by Wars of the U.S. is the na- Foreign Wars of the U.S. Post October 31. Nominated teach- tion’s largest and oldest major 7394, announced the kick-off of this year’s VFW’s “Smart/ ers compete at the local VFW Post level with the winners war veterans’ organization. Founded in 1899 and char- Business Cards • Business Forms • Notecards Maher VFW National Citi- advancing to District. District tered by Congress in 1936, the Invitations • Blue Prints • Rack Cards • Posters zenship Education Teacher winners compete in the state VFW is comprised entirely of Award” contest. level competition with state eligible veterans and military Stamps • Labels Every year, the VFW first-place winners advancing service members from the recognizes three exceptional to the National Competition. active, Guard and Reserve teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching The VFW enacted the Teacher of the Year award con- forces. With nearly 1.7 million VFW and Auxiliary members Full Color printing at rock bottom prices! Americanism and patriotism to test in 1999 as a way to iden- located in nearly 6,400 Posts their students. The three win- tify and recognize America’s worldwide, the nonprofit vetning teachers receive $1,000 for their professional develop- best educators. The VFW an- nually recognizes the nation’s erans’ service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE Fast, Professional Service ment, $1,000 for their school top teachers who instill a sense DOES MORE FOR VETERplus an all-expenses-paid trip of national pride in students by ANS” than the VFW, which is to the VFW’s National Con- teaching citizenship education dedicated to veterans’ service, vention in July. Teachers of grades K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 can topics regularly and promoting America’s history and tradi- legislative advocacy, and mili- tary and community service 706-745-6343 be nominated by fellow teachers, students, supervisors or tions effectively. If you are interested in programs. For more informa- tion or to join, visit our web- westprinting@windstream.net other interested individuals. nominating a teacher for this site at www.vfw.org.