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 9, 2026 County pitches SPLOST continuation in Town Hall By Brittany Holbrooks Public safety and local firefighting is costly but North Georgia News infrastructure like roads and necessary for public safety, with Staff Writer bridges headlined discussions, other department provisions SUCHES – About 20 with Chief Dyer up first to being rescue vehicles, turnout people attended the Special outline the various ways the gear, self-contained breathing Purpose Local Option Sales Tax Fire Department uses SPLOST apparatus, radios, thermal Town Hall on Tuesday, Sept. funds. imaging cameras, extrication 1, at the Suches Community “You’ll never guess what HTXLSPHQW PHGLFDO GHYLFHV Center. A second SPLOST D ÀUH WUXFN WRGD FRVWV 7KH and more. Town Hall is scheduled for last one we priced was about “We spend a lot of this Thursday, Sept. 10, at 6 $700,000,” Dyer revealed. SPLOST money on the Fire p.m. inside the Union County “Basic Toyota Corolla, no Department side to keep Schools Fine Arts Center. VSLQQLQJULPV²EDVLFÀUHWUXFN everything up to date,” Dyer D u r i n g l a s t w e e k ’s no fancy nothing. They’re very said to wrap things up, adding meeting, Sole Commissioner expensive.” that “the most exciting” local Harold Collins, County But the department XSGDWH IRU ÀUVW UHVSRQGHUV LV M a n a g e r To n y H u g h e s , cannot utilize base the new SPLOST-funded 911 Fire Chief David Dyer and transportation alone, Dyer Center that will open this year. Sheriff Shawn Dyer talked said. Additional costs include Next, Union County about how SPLOST funds ÀUHÀJKWLQJHTXLSPHQWVXFKDV Sheriff Shawn Dyer outlined EHQHÀWWKHFRXQWDKHDGRIWKH hoses, which must be attached what the voter-supported 1% continuation referendum that to the trucks by law. sales tax does for the Sheriff’s (L-R) Sheriff Shawn Dyer, SPLOST Project Manager Kevin Hamby, 911 Lt. Millie Baxter will appear on Nov. 3 ballots. As Dyer made clear, See SPLOST Town Hall, Page 2A and Fire Chief David Dyer at the Town Hall in Suches last week. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Andy Friesen of Suches News Special Suches native Andrew “Andy” Friesen was recently promoted to the rank of and the University of North Georgia. He has served in the U.S. Army for approximately 10 years and currently serves a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering. His graduate studies and research focus on radiation detection promoted to Army Major Major in the United States Army after being selected for a merit-based promotion, as a Nuclear and Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Officer, known within the and nuclear technologies with applications to military operations and national recognizing his professional Army as Functional Area 52. defense. performance, leadership, and He is currently attending Throughout his Army potential for service at higher the Air Force Institute of career, Friesen has served levels of responsibility. Te c h n o l o g y a t Wr i g h t - in a variety of leadership, Friesen is a graduate Patterson Air Force Base, operational, and technical of Woody Gap High School Ohio, where he is completing See Friesen Promoted, Page 7A Two Panthers injured but recovering, coach says By Todd Forrest North Georgia News Staff Writer What began as a frightening scene Friday night in Toccoa ended with an answered prayer Sunday, as Union County sophomore linebacker Braxton Miller returned home after losing feeling in his legs following a collision at Stephens County. Miller was airlifted from Stephens County High School on Friday night, with a helicopter landing beside the stadium during the game as emergency personnel rushed to get him to Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital in Atlanta. Upon arriving at the hospital, Miller immediately began showing signs of recovery, Union County head Union County Panther Braxton Miller holding his tattered coach Rob Stowe said. Around jersey, which had to be cut off for treatment of a frightening U.S. Army Maj. Andy Friesen, center, has made his hometown proud by receiving a merit- 2 a.m. Saturday, Miller was game injury he received Friday night. Miller’s story and rapid based rank advancement, pictured here at his recent promotion ceremony. Photo/Submitted See Panthers OK, Page 6A recovery have made headlines across the state. Sheriff Dyer rolls out new Autism Awareness Program By Shawn Jarrard of the new Autism Awareness VWRSRUDÀUHÀJKWHUSDUDPHGLF appropriate law enforcement Dyer said. “You’re going to North Georgia News Stickers for individuals and or EMT at a wreck or other response, especially in Union have more patience; you may editor@nganews.com families to display on their medical emergency – that an County, where nearly all local need to speak softly, not have Union County Sheriff vehicles and homes. occupant has autism, and to deputies have completed so much direct contact or get in Shawn Dyer always welcomes The free stickers are “please be patient.” crisis intervention training, or their space. You just change the community input, so when designed to be placed in $OHUWLQJÀUVWUHVSRQGHUV CIT, that includes situations way you respond, and it keeps a participant in the Sheriff’s key locations to alert first that someone has autism is involving autism. them calmer. 2IÀFH&LWL]HQV$FDGHPDVNHG responders to the presence of a important, as autistic people can Sheriff Dyer is big on “ We ’ r e t r a i n e d t o him last month about creating person with autism, and Dyer TXLFNOEHFRPHRYHUZKHOPHG training, and his goal is to recognize people in crisis, but an autism awareness campaign recommends people put them to the point of behaving have 100% of his deputies if they’re in crisis when we get to benefit residents and first on rear windows in vehicles erratically – being combative trained in crisis intervention. there, it may be to the point responders alike, he thought, and on front-door glass or and loud, for example – which And since the stickers support where we don’t know what “That’s a good idea.” another readily visible area of can easily be misinterpreted that training, Dyer recognized we’ve got and treat it the wrong These Autism Awareness Based on that idea, a home. as substance use or an acute WKH FLWL]HQ·V UHTXHVW DV DQ way starting out. Stickers for cars and homes Sheriff Dyer is proud to As noted on the stickers, mental health episode. opportunity to bring another “But if we know what are now available to the public announce that residents can the campaign is meant to Knowing up front tool to better serve the public. we’re dealing with, we may at the Union County Sheriff’s QRZVZLQJEKLVRIÀFHDW alert first responders – be it that an individual may be “If you know that going have a deputy that is more 2IÀFHIUHHRIFKDUJH Beasley Street to pick up one D VKHULII·V GHSXW DW D WUDIÀF autistic can prompt a more in, you can respond differently,” See Autism Awareness, Page 2A Photo by Shawn Jarrard Vol. 117 No. 38 Blairsville Boy Scouts Run to Eagle 5K Sept. 12 See Page 11A Arrests - 8B .GICNU$ Church - 3B Obits - 4B Notice: 2026 County Meeting Venue/Time Changes See Page 12B %NCUUKČGFU$ Sports - 8A Opinion - 4A Union General Health Fair to Return Sept. 19 See Page 11A Turn your home into Your home’s equity is powerful—let us put it to work with a HELOC (Home Equity Line United Community Bank Blairsville 177 Hwy 515 W Blairsville, GA 30512 your dream home, ofGetCredit) from United Community. flexible funds when you need them. with a HELOC. Learn more at ucbi.com/heloc. 6
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URULVWDWWDFNVRI6HSWWRRN VHUYLFH SODFH LQ 1HZ<RUN DQG DW WKH %LVFXLW JLYHDZD IRU Essential Duties and Responsibilities --- This position is primarily responsi- 3HQWDJRQ )RU VRPH LW·V DQ ÀUVWUHVSRQGHUV)LUVWUHVSRQG HYHQW WKH KHDU WKHLU SDUHQWV HUVWKURXJKRXWWKHDUHDDUHEH ble for installing, repairs, and maintaining water and sewer lines and mains as RUIDPLOPHPEHUVWDONDERXW LQJLQYLWHGWRWKHFDPSXVWRUH well as some sidewalk and street repairs and landscaping and grounds work. )RU RWKHUV LW·V EXUQHG LQWR FHLYHDIUHHEUHDNIDVWELVFXLWLQ The new hire must be able to obtain a class III Georgia state water distribution WKHLU PHPRU OLNH LW ZDV MXVW DSSUHFLDWLRQ RI WKHLU VDFULÀFH HVWHUGD DQGVHUYLFHWRWKHDUHD7KH·OO certification within nine months of hire date. 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KH KHOSHG ZLWKRXW KHVLWDWLRQ WKDWGDDQGKRQRULQJDOOWKRVH WKHZRPHQ·VDQGPHQ·VVRFFHU Applications can be picked up at City Hall, 62 Blue Ridge Street DQGORVWKLVOLIHVHUYLQJRWKHUV WRXFKHGEWKHHYHQWV$PRQJ JDPHVRQ6DWXUGD6HSW or online at www.blairsville-ga.gov and can be dropped off at City Hall +LVOHJDFLPSDFWVPHVWLOOµ WKHDFWLYLWLHVWKDWGDLQFOXGH ´7KH DQQLYHUVDULV or mailed to PO Box 307, Blairsville, GA 30514. &DOODKDQ MRLQHG WKH 7DEOLQJ HYHQW IRU KDQG VRPHWKLQJ , ZLOO DOZDV NHHS Applications will be accepted until position is filled. )'1<LQ6HSWHPEHU IXO ZULWWHQ QRWHV$ WDEOH ZLOO EH FORVHµ 6WRQH DGGHG ´,W LV DQ Questions regarding position can be directed to Mayor or City Clerk at 706-745-2000. ÀOOLQJ D FKLOGKRRG GUHDP RI VHW XS LQ WKH 5&& RQ 6HSW HPRWLRQDO DQG LPSRUWDQW GD EHFRPLQJ D ÀUHÀJKWHU $IWHU IURP DP WR SP WRUHPHPEHUWKRVHZHORVWDQG The City of Blairsville is an equal opportunity employer. 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September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3A “Joshua” performance at “Sight and Sound” - A very special bus trip from Blairsville, GA to Lancaster, PA By Paula Flippin When life-long Pennsylvania friends discovered my husband and I were joining a “bus group” from Blairsville, Georgia, and traveling 15-plus hours each way to see a performance of “Joshua” at Sight and Sound Theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, they happily forwarded airline information outlining return tickets available from both Harrisburg and Allentown. BUY ONE Actually, both hubby -LPDQG,ZHUHDOVRTXHVWLRQ- WEDGEWICH, ing the long bus trip at this senior time in our lives. But I really wanted to go, and because Travelers from Georgia to see “Joshua” at Sight and Sound Theatre in Lancaster, PA last month GET ONE FREE! the performance of “Joshua” formance and animal training opened in Branson, Missouri, Buc-ee’s, the Natural Bridge 580%3*/,163$)"4&3&26*3&%]%*/&*/035",&065 happened to be on Aug. 5, and management division of LQ $ GLIIHUHQW SUHVHQWD- and took long naps. The four PUGELUWKGDKXEEVDLG “Sight and Sound” in 2025. tion is staged there. Currently, days were planned perfectly, “Why Not?” Needless to say, she truly “David” is onstage in Mis- and the weather cooperated Thus in March we com- “loves” her very special world souri and will be followed by with us, never opening our -*.*5&%5*.&0/-: mitted to traveling from Mari- arena there. “Miracle of Christmas” from umbrellas until we returned to etta – spending the night in While visiting Ansley Nov. 3 though the month of Georgia! Blairsville – and showing up we learned that the animal December. And to our Pennsylvania &-*(*#-&8&%(&8*$)&4 at Grace Presbyterian Church, habitat at “Sight and Sound” Following our 11 o’clock friends’ amazement, we rode 5)&&/'03$&3 $)*$,&/#"$0/3"/$) Blairsville, at 6:30 a.m. on houses, trains and coordinates performance, Ansley arranged the bus back to Blairsville, for- .&"5#"--45)&4"/%8*$) #3*4,&5#63/5&/%1)*--: Aug. 3 to board the bus to at times (depending on script for a staff member to meet with ever grateful for an incredible 1*;;"#&--:(:30 )"/%#"/"/" Pennsylvania. UHTXLUHPHQWV SHUIRUPDQFHV us – brought a donkey too – and memory. An even better incentive with: camels, horses, donkeys, DQVZHUHGDQTXHVWLRQVZKLOHD /PUWBMJEXJUIPUIFSQSPNPUJPOT to sign up for the four-day trip pigs, chickens, geese and other ÁRRUFUHZSUHSDUHGWKHWKHDWHU was the fact that it had been or- birds. There is a tunnel con- for the following 3 o’clock perganized by Dawn Burnette, a necting the farm area adjacent formance. Blairsville woman. Dawn and to the 2,000-seat theatre where Most – if not all – perher daughter Ansley – a now the animals and their perform- formances are sold out. It has Pennsylvania resident – were ers travel to and from the 300- always been a very popular the editors and publishers of foot stage. day bus excursion for churcha memoir I wrote for our 60th We were blessed to per- es in Pennsylvania, New wedding anniversary. We had sonally see Ansley command York, New Jersey, Maryland, worked diligently together on chariots on the theatre stage Delaware and even Ohio to that project, but I had never ac- as well as ride horses down arrange. Many return annutually met either of the women the aisles. She at times leads ally since there is always a in person. donkeys during the three-hour new performance to watch and We soon learned that the presentation. learn about the Bible. The next vast majority of the 40-plus “Joshua” is presented show, opening in March 2027, people traveling from Geor- twice (at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.) will be “Jonah!” I doubt there gia to Pennsylvania knew – or Tuesday through Saturday be- will be a real whale housed at were possibly even related to tween March and December. the farm! – Dawn and daughter Ans- A new show is always being Of course, our group ley. It soon became apparent prepared focusing on a Bibli- was on a bus trip too! On that that connecting with Ansley FDOVWRURUDVSHFLÀF%RRNRI day, Aug. 5, we were possibly and seeing her performing at the Bible. the bus that came the greatest “Sight and Sound” was the “Sight and Sound” was distance to see “Joshua.” Our main purpose of organizing the inspiration of a Pennsylva- four-day trip also included a the adventure. nia couple, Glenn and Shirley stop in Gettysburg, an Amish Growing up in North Eshelman, a dairy farmer and dinner and theatre show in Georgia, Ansley was a dedi- his wife, 50 years ago. It began Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, cated horse woman and at as a traveling slideshow and as well as an optional visit to times competitive in rodeo KDVJURZQWRIHDWXUHRYHU the Strasburg Train Museum. competitions. Her dedication employees on its mission to We truly did have a to animals was life-long. After bring the gospel to life through very special bus – ample seatgraduation from college in Ala- WKHDWHUWHOHYLVLRQDQGÀOP ing room and lots of games bama she accepted a position at The motion picture, and prizes and DVD’s to Florida’s Disneyworld as a part “The Great Awakening,” is watch along the way. We of the Disney College Program. D 6LJKW 6RXQG ÀOP$ VHF- stopped every 90 minutes for Ansley joined the per- ond Sight & Sound Theatre “necessary” locations, food, LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Michelin BFG Specializing In: Alignment • Computer Balancing SHAWN’S HOME FURNISHINGS Brakes • Auto Repair Uniroyal Industrial Foam Fill Oil Changes - est. 2003 - Thomas Tire, Inc. “From the Front Porch to the Back Door We’ve Got You Covered!” Auto & Big Truck Service 568 Blue Ridge St. • Blairsville, GA Oscar Thomas - Owner 76 Shoe Factory Road 706-835-1209 (706) 745-0264 Blairsville, Georgia 30512 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat 10am-3pm • Closed Sun Southeast Geothermal & Spray Foam Interior, Exterior, Baths, Decks, Doors. 706-745-8685 Interior & Exterior Repairs Painting, Trim, Siding, Screens, Decks, Flooring, Electric Water Heaters Floors & Installation 1442 Blue Ridge Hwy. 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Page 4A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 Opinions Everybody has one... Remember and Teach Two Young Men From Your Commissioner 7KHUHLVDQ$PHULFDQÁDJRQWKHZDOODERYHPGHVN,WLV Oh, to be 17 again! No longer a child yet filled with At each Commission Meeting, we have folks who ask ques- OLNH PRVW$PHULFDQ ÁDJV ,W KDV WKH UHG DQG ZKLWH VWULSHV ,W KDV wonder and questions about life as an adult - who am I and tions. Sometimes they are genuine curiosities that fellow citizens WKH EOXH EDQQHU ZLWK LWV ZKLWH VWDUV %XW WKLV ÁDJ LV GLIIHUHQW how will I live? KDYHDERXWVSHFLÀFWRSLFVDQGVRPHWLPHVWKHDUHUHSHWLWLYHLQ 7KLVÁDJKDVWKHQDPHVRIWKHÀUHÀJKWHUVZKRORVWWKHLUOLYHV One young man invested himself in sports. His nature – asked by the same people at every meeting. That’s OK. in the collapse of the World Trade Center towers. It is a reminder identity was “athlete.” He played quarterback on his high But one thing that our staff is not going to do is to get into a of the bravery and dedication of so many who were trying to save school team until suffering a knee injury. The devastation shouting match and talk on top of each other. That goes for me, as many lives as possible on one of the was not just physical. “What I the County Manager, the County Atworst days in the history of the United Fire Dept. thought was going to be my life, All Things torney or for any other employee or Union States. from Union New DIÀOLDWHGSHUVRQ County County sports,” he said, “I felt like was There are other items that we being stripped away from me.” We will be conducting Com- Commissioner GLVSODDWWKHÀUHGHSDUWPHQWWRKRQRU Fire Chief Who was he, if not an athlete? mission business in a professional WKRVHÀUHÀJKWHUVDQGWRUHPLQGXVRI David One following Sunday in Wayne and transactional manner where citi- Harold September 11th. We have a piece of Dyer church with his family, he lis- Fowler zens can express their concerns and Collins steel from one of the twin towers. We tened carefully to the sermon. ask their questions in an environment also have photos and newspaper clippings of that day. Each of these “The Lord is looking for a few good men,” the pastor said, that is not threatening or demeaning. With that in mind, I’d like to help us keep a promise to “Never Forget.” “to live the life that He had planned for them.” In that remind the public in general that when legitimate questions are in It has been 25 years since September 11, 2001. For those of need of answers, there are many ways to get those answers outside moment of challenge, he received Jesus Christ as Savior us who were alive and remember, we must always keep our prom- of a County Meeting. Anyone wanting my undivided attention can realizing, “There was something bigger planned for me HDVLOPDNHDQDSSRLQWPHQW-XVWFDOOWKHRIÀFHDW ise of never forgetting. We should never forget that we were at- than just sports.” tacked and who attacked us. We should never forget the tragedy of and someone will happily put you on my calendar so that we can WKHHYHQW WKHORVVRILQQRFHQWOLYHV DQGWKHVDFULÀFHRIVRPDQ Another young man had no plans for what was next have a conversation. trying to save people. We should also never forget how our country in life. It made him touchy and irritable. A friend urged $FDOHQGDULVUHTXLUHGEHFDXVH,GRQ·WKROGRIÀFHKRXUV² pulled together and rose above this tragedy. him to attend meetings led by the colorful preacher Mor- the job simply won’t allow it. Road situations that involve high Although there are still many people who remember every decai Ham. At one of those meetings, he prayed to receive costs require my input; therefore, I may be out looking at roads sight, every thought, and every feeling on that fateful day, there are Christ. “I had little inkling of what I might do with my and road surfaces. In some of these cases, I may also be meeting many who were too young or not even born during that time. It is life,” he wrote, “but down inside I knew something was ZLWKLQGLYLGXDOUHVLGHQWVZKROLYHRQDVSHFLÀFURDG/RFDOFOXEV GLIÀFXOWIRUWKHPWRIRUJHWVRPHWKLQJWKDWWKHKDYHQ·WH[SHULHQFHG different.” and organizations sometimes ask me to give a short state of the or were too young to understand. How do we emphasize the impact Both of these young men were turning 17 when they FRXQWWDON7KLVUHTXLUHVPHWREHRXWRIWKHRIÀFH of a world-altering event such at the terrorist attacks of 9/11 to fu- began their life with Christ. The first is Drew Brees, who Union County is a very generous county with many orture generations? found his calling as an NFL quarterback. He proclaimed ganizations serving different causes. I may attend a meeting of We start with the facts of it all. We must explain what led up his identity and purpose in Christ during his recent hall of the Emergency Food and Shelter Board for Towns/Union Counto the event, what happened that day, by who, and what were the fame speech. The second is Billy Graham, called by God ties, Alcohol Board meeting, a Short-term Rental Board meetresults. We must explain how the world, the world that they now to proclaim the gospel of Christ around the world. “If we ing, Union County Board of Health, or a Development Authority live in, has changed because of it. We must teach true history to fu- don’t know who we are,” he wrote, “we’ll never know Board meeting, just to name a few. I don’t attend all meetings on ture generations. We must honor the lost and celebrate the bravery how we ought to live.” a regular basis, but I do like to keep in touch. of so many. In other words, your identity and purpose are linked. There are Regional, State, and National obligations that re- $V,ZDONLQWRPRIÀFHRUSDVVEWKH GLVSODV,DP Whether you are 17 or 67, what you do next is grounded quire travel on behalf of the County. I try to attend County-related reminded of that day and the obligation that I have to “never forget” in who you are. To identify with Christ is to find your pur- weekend functions as well. No matter what might pull me from as well as to teach the next generation. pose here: “He died for all, so that they who live might no WKH DFWXDO RIÀFH HQYLURQPHQW WKHUH LV DOZDV URRP RQ P FDO- Union County Fire Department ~Our Family Protecting Your longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose HQGDUIRURX²RXUFLWL]HQVWRFRPHLQWRWKHRIÀFHIRUDFRQYHU- Family~ again on their behalf” (2 Cor. 5:15). See Collins, page 5A Life with Toxic People Chamber 2026 Do you have toxic persons in your life? $VZHHQWHU)DOOWKLQJVDUHGHÀQLWHOQRW They can be draining and unsupportive. That is slowing down! At the Chamber, we are welcomnormal behavior for the toxic person. Toxic indi- ing new members, promoting all the upcoming viduals will drain emotionally the victim. Not a festivals and events, and preparing for the 2027 pretty sight! A toxic person enjoys creating drama Community Guide. in order to get the victim’s full attention and to The Community Guide provides all the manipulate the vic- need-to-know intim to do the wishes Successful formation about Blairsville - Union of the toxic person. Mental Union County, from Health County Be aware of emergency tele- Chamber any guilt about dis- Dr. James phone numbers to President tancing yourself Ray Ashurst a complete business from the toxic envi- PH.D. directory featur- Steve Rowe ronment. The toxic ing our Chamber individual will strive to put the victim on a guilt members. It also includes information about our trip. The victim may feel guilty about brushing off schools, Farmers Market, Airport, and many of the toxic person. It is in the victim’s best interest our local businesses. The business directory is a to do so. It isn’t wise to keep someone in one’s life JUHDWUHIHUUDOUHVRXUFHIRUÀQGLQJDORFDOVHUYLFH who has a totally different set of values. provider or discovering a list of restaurants and A toxic person will never be attentive to the other businesses in the community. needs of the victim. The toxic person is too self- As we prepare for this year’s Community centered. In addition, the toxic person will not tol- Guide, we ask that all Chamber members take a erate the victim to disagree with him or her. They moment to review your contact information and will steer the conversation to themselves. They make sure everything is current and accurate. are prone to insist that their viewpoint is solely Each year, more than 8,000 printed copies of the the best. See Chamber, page 5A Letters to the Editor The Mass Readings Cherokee Place Names Ginseng A Request to the Commissioner As a Protestant convert to Catholicism, I I guess I am a day dreamer and like to think Ginseng is a plant that has long had an ZDONHGLQWRWKH&DWKROLF0DVVIRUWKHÀUVWWLPH about the nature of how places came to be named important place in Appalachia. It is important Dear Editor, with a lot of expectations. I was a believer in as well as who named those places. Many times, economically and culturally. Unfortunately, I sent the following letter to Commis- Jesus Christ from a very young age, steeped I have wondered what might had an old Indian there is less and less ginseng growing in the sioner Collins but have not received a response. in fundamentalism. We knew the books of the been thinking when walking along this path on wild. Let’s talk about ginseng, some of its his- I sent a similar letter last year and never received Bible, in order, and could recite them and locate which I am traveling, or maybe I have wondered tory, and how to start your own ginseng patch. a response. them, chapter and what that old war- N a t i v e Dear Commissioner Collins, verse, in less than Catholic rior thought when Around Americans have I am a resident of Blairsville, and I am 20 seconds when the Conversations he came across this The Farm used ginseng for writing to ask you to take action on pet overpopu- preacher gave the in- St. Francis of Assisi view? And I some- health remedies Watching lation in our county. Across Georgia, shelters are struction. I learned times wonder at the for centuries, but and Working RYHUÁRZLQJDQGKHDOWKDQLPDOVDUHHXWKDQL]HG that skill in Sunday Angela meaning of some of Mickey in the early 1700s Jacob every day, and the deeper problem is on our own school when I was Ridley the place names we Cummings a Jesuit missionary Williams streets: unsterilized free-roaming animals breed- 6. It took me a while take for granted. in Canada discoving the next generation faster than any shelter to get to less than 20 seconds, but get there I For example, how was the Nottely ered that American ginseng and Asian ginseng can keep up. In a county like ours, it shows up did. Why? It was the Word of God, and it mat- River named? The river is formed by a couple were very similar. That led to a steep increase on the roadsides – dumped litters, roaming dogs, tered. Plus, mama and the preacher were always of springs. One spring comes from Lord a Mer- in the amount of ginseng being dug and sold and residents left to handle it themselves. watching, and you didn’t mess with mama or cy Cove and the other comes out of Ruth Gap. to the Asian market In Asia ginseng has been I foster rescued animals in my home and the preacher. These small creeks join together with many oth- used for thousands of years. It’s been used as volunteer with a local rescue. Locally, our local Long story short, after undertaking an HUVWRIRUPWKHULYHUDVLWÁRZVQRUWKZDUGLQWR a dietary supplement and in herbal teas. There animal control and shelter simply cannot keep extended study of the dogmas of the Catholic North Carolina and eventually into Tennessee. are many traditional medicine uses of ginseng. pace. And the trend runs the wrong way: each Church, I made the change. It only took me 12 Legend has it that a young warrior named Naduli Some of the health claims about ginseng are HDUEULQJVPRUHXQÀ[HGDQLPDOVDQGPRUHOLW- years to walk in one Sunday, Bible in hand. And married a young Catawba girl, and this relation- not supported by clinical studies. In spite of ters in our community than the last. I had my what happened? Well, lo and behold, no one ship brought a lasting peace to both nations. The this ginseng is still incredibly valuable because own pets spayed and neutered because it is sim- had a Bible with them. And, to make matters warrior was a respected man and eventually was of its use in Asia. The root of the plant is what ply the responsible thing to do. What troubles worse, there were no Holy Bibles in the pews. named Chief of the Cherokee. Also, there was is sold, which means that harvesting kills the See Blanco, page 5A There was a book called the Missal. And it had once a Cherokee village of the same name about plant. Wild ginseng roots can sell for hundreds • Bible passages! Praise the Lord. Except there 1 mile north of the North Carolina state line. of dollars per pound, depending on the quality Mountain-Moving God were only four of them for each day. Ok, this is Neel Gap was not always called by this of the root. Wild ginseng roots have more char- progress. Now where in the world is the rest of name. When the Cherokee lived here it was acter to them. They will have more lines across Dear Editor, the Bible? I was the kid that carried my Bible in called Walasiyi which means place of the big them and usually have splits in them that make In this life, whether you are a believer in my book bag for 12 years. What was going on? frog. It is said that a hunter coming home from a them look like legs. Cultivated ginseng tends Christ or not, we all face mountains to over- :HOO , ÀJXUHG LW RXW HYHQWXDOO ,W JRHV long trip came upon a giant frog in this gap many to have a slick roots which are not seen to be as come. It could be a broken relationship, a chal- like this. The Mass has a whole section each years ago, hence the name. There is a creek not valuable as wild ginseng, but it can still be sold. lenging health issue or a stressful work con- week called the Liturgy of the Word, which is too distant from this place coming from the The native range of ginseng is eastern dition, and it can be overwhelming when we entirely focused on the written Word of God. southern slopes of the Blue Ridge called Frog- north America from Canada down to North face it alone. The good news is, God is always The structure is called the Lectionary, which town Creek, and on this creek was a Cherokee Georgia. Ginseng’s status in Georgia is rated as in the midst of our trials and temptations, and is a three-year cycle of readings, broken down village of the same name. YXOQHUDEOH*LQVHQJLVYHUUDUHWRÀQGLQWKH we need not be afraid but rejoice that the Holy daily, that will incorporate: a reading from the Just south of Woody Gap is an area called wild. This is due to habitat loss, wildlife eat- Spirit that lives in a believer’s heart will guide Old Testament or the Prophets; a Psalm; a read- Yahoola. The area is named after a Cherokee ing it, its slow reproduction, and overharvest you through these perilous moments and bring ing from the New Testament, usually a letter Stock trader (livestock trader) that became lost of the plant in the wild. There are stories from victory in the end. from Paul; and a reading from one of the Gos- somewhere around what is now called Slaugh- the early 1800s of bundles of ginseng the size Sometimes God allows certain moun- pels. Sound complex? It really isn’t. It is just ter and Blood Mountains. His hunting partners RIKDEDOHVEHLQJÁRDWHGGRZQWKHULYHUWREH tains to come our way to test our faith to see very organized. This is the interesting thing. searched for him for a number of days and even- sold at market. if we truly trust Him in all things, good, bad The readings are all bound together each week tually left without him. A few days after arriving The Georgia Department of Natural Re- See Combs, page 5A ZLWK D VSHFLÀF SXUSRVH 7KH ELQGLQJ LV FDOOHG back at home they were eating dinner and Yahula sources regulates the harvest and sale of gin- • the principle of harmony. That simply means suddenly appeared and told them that the Nun- seng in Georgia. Growers and dealers must be that in order to bring out the unity between the nehi (a race of small fairy-like people) had found registered. Ginseng can only be harvested from Stuff Old and New Testaments, then you have to read and fed him. He refused to eat because he’d been September 1 through December 31. This is to Dear Editor, them together. St. Augustine said it best when eating their special food. Nor could he stay at give plants an opportunity to put on seeds be- Every morning breaks with man in a he said that the “Old Testament is revealed in home because he would die. So, Yahula went fore they are harvested. Only plants with 3 or struggle with each other. It seems to be a com- the New and the New Testament is concealed in back to the Nunnehi and would occasionally more prongs can be harvested. As plants age in petition of sorts. The object of the struggle is the Old.” Perfect harmony is established when visit his people which lived on the banks of the years they gain more prongs, or leaves. By only stuff. Some have a lot, many have some and a you read them together. Yahoola Creek. People say that on a dark night harvesting plants with 3 prongs or more, you few have very little. The reason for the unequal And even more interesting is that the pas- on Blood and Slaughter Mountains one can still don’t harvest plants that are too young to reprodistribution is a source of debate. sages chosen are not random. The whole Lec- hear the drum beat of the Nunnehi which live in duce. When you harvest ginseng, you are re- Ambition, work ethic and dedication tionary is designed with intention. It is meant a large Town House under the mountain. quired to plant any berries that are on the plant. are some of the major things setting up the to induct us into the mysteries of Christ. The In the Smoky Mountains there is a peak This is to encourage new plants of ginseng to social order we experience. My car is newer readings are strategically chosen to help us that is called Kuwohi which is sacred because start growing. No ginseng may be harvested on than yours. My television has a larger screen. understand the Sacred Scriptures. How did the Cherokee say that Ani’-Tsa’guhi live there. state owned land or national forest at this time. See Vickers, 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. Box 2029, Blairsville, Georgia 30514
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5A Cummings...continued from Page 4A Ridley... continued from Page 4A The old ones say that bears are transformed Cherokee and that man went hunting for the ser- pent and found it. He immedi- the Church come up with this idea of an organized pattern er together in one place and the apostles and the prophets Tolar’s Treasures they live at this mountain. The ately panicked and the serpent of readings? From Scriptures would be read for as long as word Kuwohi means Mulberry gave chase and nearly caught themselves. The readings in time allows.” OK, I can replace. It is said that there is an him before he realized the ser- the synagogue, during Jesus’ late to this. How long could Antiques, Vintage enchanted lake below the sum- pent could not run across the time, were organized. Two a fundamentalist preacher mit of this place and if a bear face of the steep slopes, only up readings were done each time. preach the Word of God? I & Thrift Nook is wounded it goes to the lake and down. The hunter changed 7KH ÀUVW ZDV IURP WKH 7R- don’t have enough word count to swim across and is healed in direction and got away. He then UDK ZKLFK LV RQH RI WKH ÀYH WR GHVFULEH WKDW 6XIÀFH LW WR the process. If you do not know by now, this mountain was VHWÀUHWRWKHZRRGVNLOOLQJWKH creature. In case you do not books attributed to Moses. Then there would be a read- say that, even though they are done differently, the readings /WTRJ[*Y[5VG called Clingman’s Dome. know the word, Cohutta means ing from the prophets. We see of the Word of God are a very $NCKTUXKNNG)GQTIKC The Cohutta Mountains roof top. The mountains there this in Luke 4 when Jesus goes important part of the Mass. just west of Blue Ridge was once home to a terrible monster are not high, but they have very steep slopes which this creature into the synagogue and reads from Isaiah. Isaiah was not a As important as the Eucharist. Thomas A Kempis, in the 15th called “Ustu’tli” by the Chero- could not negotiate. random choice. You didn’t get century, wrote a best-selling kee. This word means foot The spot where the Val- to pick which reading you felt book called “The Imitation VQNCTUVTGCUWTGU"IOCKNEQO snake. This creature did not ley River joins the Hiwassee like doing that day. There was of Christ,” where he stated, glide on the ground like other River at Murphy, North Caro- a set reading already in place “Without these two things I (KPF7U1P(CEGDQQM snakes. It used feet on either lina, is known to the Cherokee that was given to him for that could not live well, for the end of its body to lurch for- as Tlsnusi’yi which means day. And it just so happened Word of God is the light of my ward like a giant inch worm. It “The Leech place.” There was to be the reading about… the soul, and His sacrament is the could go straight across ravines a ledge near this place with a Messiah. What harmony! bread of my life.” The Cathoand rivers by throwing its head trail running across it that peo- Do we have evidence lic Mass offers both to us. The across and grabbing a rock to ple used quite frequently. One that the Lectionary existed in pattern of Christ given to us pull the rest of its body across day some men noticed some- the early church? Yes, from each week. the area. It would call out a thing red laying on a rock in the second century AD, St. ***Adapted from Dr. bleat that sounded like a young the middle of the river. As they Justin Martyr recorded that Brant Pitre, The Mass Exfawn which enticed hunters to come looking for a baby deer. walked closer it unfurled and it was determined to be a giant on Sundays, all would “gath- plained 2024 Authorized Dealer The giant snake-like creature would then capture the hunter leech. Afterward when people would get too close to the deep Williams... continued from Page 4A and coil itself around the man hole the great leech would Ginseng can be grown theft, diseases, and insects can before consuming him. The spray a strong stream of water on private property. You all take their toll. people around this area were at them knocking a person into want to look for a place that If you have questions afraid to hunt the area because the deep hole to be consumed has at least 1000 feet in el- about ginseng, contact your of this great serpent. by the leech. evation, slope of > 30%, and &RXQW ([WHQVLRQ 2IÀFH RU Once a man came from I hope you have enjoyed has a north, east, northeast, email me at Jacob.Williams@ Serving the Area Since 1983 up north to visit relatives reading about some of these or northwest facing aspect. uga.edu. around the Cohuttas. They fed SODFHV <RX FDQ ÀQG WKHVH Ginseng must be grown in him a bowl of beans for supper myths in James Mooney’s and apologized for the lack of book, “History, Myths, and the shade. About 75% shade is what is needed. Hardwoods Chamber... Hours: 9-5 Closed Wed. & Sun. meat and explained the reason Sacred Formulas of the Chero- are better than pine. Some in- 2711 Blairsville Hwy., Murphy NC. 28906 continued from Page 4A for the lack of meat. So, the kee.” dicator plants to look for are mayapple, bloodroot, trilli- Guide are distributed through- out the area, with an estimated Blanco... continued from Page 4A XPV IRDP ÁRZHU IHUQV DQG cohosh. When planting seeds additional 6,000–8,000 views 828.837.8611 keep in mind that they may online. me is that those of us who do case plainly. At about $80, a If you need more inforthe right thing still shoulder single spay or neuter prevents take two or more years to ger- minate. Once plants are grow- mation about the Community the cost of every litter that was thousands of dollars in down- Guide, have forgotten your never prevented. The answer is stream shelter costs, and each ing it can take 8+ years before they reach harvest age. Gin- password for accessing your not to blame families who can- $1 invested in prevention re- keywords and phrases, or not afford a surgery; it is for the turns roughly $20 over 10 seng can be a valuable crop, but it’s best to temper expec- would like to learn more about county to make spay and neuter years; $1 now versus $20 later your membership analytics, easy and affordable for every- is not a debate about values – it tations because there is a lot that can go wrong in 8+ years. please contact a member of the one, so doing the right thing is is arithmetic. Union County’s Chamber team. We are happy within reach for all of us. own report shows 70 dogs and Wildlife damage, washouts, to help you make the most of Because TNVR returns cats euthanized in 2025 – and your Chamber membership! cats that have been vaccinated, it is itself a disease-control mea- at the county’s own budget, each shelter intake costs rough- Vickers... Let us help you make Business Better in Blairsville! sure that makes the whole com- ly $1,108, against about $80 for continued from Page 4A munity – and residents’ own the surgery that prevents one. pets – safer. It is also simply None of what I am ask- Ambition, work ethic and dedication on steroids equals Collins... humane: unchecked breeding ing requires new taxes or a new lots of stuff. When is enough, continued from Page 4A leads to suffering and euthana- department – it is a smarter use enough? sia, and preventing it is both the of the animal-services capacity sation. I am your fellow Union The most unhappy per- County neighbor who pays taxkinder choice and the cheaper the county already funds. I re- son you’ll ever meet is the one for the county. As a Union spectfully ask you to: es, votes, and is raising a fam- RQHZKRLVQHYHUVDWLVÀHGDQG ily here. I am truly interested in County taxpayer, what frus- 1. Dedicate a modest always wants bigger and bettrates me is watching us pay share of the animal-services your thoughts, suggestions, and ter. Happy is the person who insight. The recent Data Center year after year for the costly budget the county already has wakes up thankful for another backend of this problem instead to low-cost spay/neuter for res- Ordinance is a testament to that day and grateful for what he belief. We may not agree on ev- RIWKHLQH[SHQVLYHÀ[)UDQNO idents – and if the shelter isn’t has been blessed with. Heresidents like me are tired of staffed for surgery days, fund erything, but we do agree that brews 13:5 begins with this members of the public deserve the same approach from county vouchers at participating clin- admonition. “Keep your life animal control year after year – ics instead. to be heard. I look forward to free from love of money and seeing you at the next Commisrising intake, rising euthanasia, 2. Make spay/neuter be content with what you and next to nothing invested in standard for every animal the sion meeting. have.” That’s a sure recipe for the upstream prevention that county adopts out, so the shel- happiness. would shrink both. ter never re-seeds the problem Gene Vickers On top of my tax bill, I it pays to manage. donate to local rescues – which 3. Host regular low-cost means I pay for this twice: taxes cover the costly backend, and clinic days with the staff and facilities the county already Your Patriot donations cover the prevention the county leaves unfunded. I has, or partner with a regional spay/neuter clinic for transport Reflection see strays and dumped animals days. around my own community, 4. Enforce the animal orand the real work is being done by unpaid volunteers cover- dinances already on the books – at-large, abandonment, and Repair & Diagnostics ing what the county does not. reclaim – so residents doing 7KHÀVFDOOUHVSRQVLEOHSDWKLV to invest a little in prevention the right thing stop subsidizing those who don’t. Data Recovery now and avoid far larger shelter and animal-control costs later. Every spring our local rescue $ SUHYHQWLRQÀUVW DS- proach means fewer strays, fewer healthy animals lost, and Custom PCs turns away litters because there is nowhere in the county to lower costs for our county over time. Please make prevention a Tune-Ups, Etc. send them. priority for our community. Constitution as a The numbers make the Debbie Blanco Protection for the People Combs...continued from Page 4A There were many comor ugly. God will give us the mountain experiences will be plex questions addressed at courage and strength to en- a harder path to endure alone, the Constitutional Congress dure these types of ups and and Satan is well pleased you by our Founding Fathers. downs in our lives to make made the choice to follow him But there was one tantalizus depend more on Him, rather than trust in Jesus to see ing question which no pothen trying to work it out you through these challeng- litical scientist of any age had ourselves, which most of the ing times. Remember, Satan yet been able to answer with times we fail miserably. But has you in his back pocket, complete satisfaction. The *RG·V JUDFH LV VXIÀFLHQW DV just like a chess player mov- question? “How can you have the apostle Paul learned from ing you from one bad position DQ HIÀFLHQW JRYHUQPHQW EXW the hardships he faced daily, to the next and eventually into still protect the freedom and and he knew Lord Jesus was the abyss of your eternal hell. unalienable rights of the peohis purpose for going through God will remove your ple?” From experience, Alex- GLIÀFXOW VLWXDWLRQV WR EULQJ mountains if you are a born ander Hamilton wrote: “For God all the glory. again child of God to bring all it is truth, which the experi- If you don’t know the praise to Him. ence of all ages has attested, God I speak of, then your Frank F. Combs that the people are common- ly most in danger when the Military Time means of injuring their rights are in the hands of those to- US Army ward whom they entertain the Calvary History least suspicion.” By: Whitey White :KDW ÀQDOO HYROYHG from their discussions was The Primary Roles government based on “We The People.” Thomas Jef- of the US Army Cavalry (6 of 7) ferson said it best, and most The fundamental pur- warfare demonstrates that the vehemently: “In questions of pose of cavalry on the battle- most frequent task a division power, then, let no more be ÀHOG WUDQVODWHV LQWR UROHV WKDW performs is movement: From VDLGRIFRQÀGHQFHLQPDQEXW cavalry performs for the com- port of debarkation to assem- bind him down from mischief mander. These roles are not bly area; From assembly area by the chains of the Constitunecessarily missions them- to attack positions or defen- tion!” selves, but are translated into sive sectors; During reposi- In a day and time when mission statements by the tioning in the defense; When many say it is time to move regimental commander or the conducting a counterattack; away from an antiquated squadron commander. and When repositioning forces Constitution we must ask our- These roles may repre- for the attack. selves what their true motivasent the intent of the corps or Cavalry units execute tion is for our country. Proven division commander when he this task largely by performing for 230 years as a deterrent assigns a mission to the cav- reconnaissance. They moni- to potential tyrants and those alry unit. tor progress of subordinate who seek absolute power, we Facilitate Movement elements for the commander. must solidly stand in defense The cluttered and con- They man contact points and of our Constitution. IXVHG EDWWOHÀHOG UHTXLUHV ÀUP passage points, and coordinate $ 3DWULRW 5HÁHFWLRQ LV control of unit movements. with higher and adjacent units presented weekly by www. The history of mechanized or headquarters. joshuaswarriors.org.
Page 6A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 cell: 706-781-7945 Panthers OK ...from Page 1A MINDY ALLEN TEAM Mindy Allen / Ria Storm 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville GA Assoc. Brokers/Sisters 706-745-8097 50 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE! Affordable MTN Living. Arrowhead Valley RV Resort lot #48 w/2018 Montana High Country 331RL rig. 4 season Lvg Pkg. 3 slides w/covers, 2 AC units, W/D, King bed. Decks/Shed, furnishings. #432081 $140,000 GENTLY SLOPING .59 acre wooded lot , Lot #5 El Mar Estates off of Rizzitello in Blairsville GA. Soil work once approved for 2BR home but prev owner never built. BRMEMC Fiber avail #432814 $22,000 RARE Opp in TRACKROCK. 3/3 home w/0-STEP ENTRY! The teammates of Union County sophomore linebacker Braxton Miller surrounded him with 1800+ htd sq ft, 2 Ht VXSSRUWRQWKHÀHOGDVPHGLFDOSURIHVVLRQDOVZRUNHGWRDVVHVVKLVLQMXU)ULGD Pumps, VT Casting gas Photo by Todd Forrest log stove in Great rm. High ceilings, many win- able to bend his knees. Two his spine did.” in two weeks. dows! SS appl, granite hours later, feeling had returned Following the collision, Both Miller and Thomson c-tops! BIG MBR, jet tub to both legs, and by 9 a.m., he Miller lay motionless on the told Stowe they plan to return #434305 $375,000 was able to walk. Miller was ÀHOG XQDEOH WR IHHO KLV OHJV to practice as soon as possible. released from the hospital prompting an extended delay. Their coach, however, urged around noon Sunday and :LWKWKHVWDGLXPTXLHWDQGERWK them not to rush anything. returned home. sidelines kneeling in prayer, “Just like Braxton, “It’s a miracle,” Stowe medical personnel tended to Sir is ready to get back out said. “A lot of people have Miller before he was carried RQ WKH ÀHOGµ 6WRZH VDLG ´, been praying all over the state. by stretcher to an ambulance told them, ‘Just listen to your I was in church and I got an parked on site. Initial reports doctor. I know you want to email from a TV station in indicated he would be taken play, and we’re not doubting South Carolina asking how he’s to Gainesville by ambulance, your courage, but follow the doing. So as the kids would say, EXW DV WKH WKLUG TXDUWHU JRW doctor’s advice.’” ‘It’s gone viral.’ underway, a helicopter could The Panthers have been “People that we don’t be seen circling the stadium. battered by injuries through the Outstanding Service, Outstanding Results even know have been praying As the chopper got lower ÀUVWWKUHHZHHNVORVLQJVWDUWLQJ and lifting him up. I’m a and lower, the realization TXDUWHUEDFN.DPGHQ.HQGULFN INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE! believer, and I believe that began to sink in along the running back Bentley Rich PDEH ZKHQ KH OHIW WKDW ÀHOG Union County sideline: it and starting left tackle Logan Friday, it was nothing but was coming to pick up their Clason to injury. HIGH TRAFFIC COUNT & FANTASTIC divine intervention that got him teammate. Union County also VISIBILITY! 2 CABINS/OFFICES or home today.” “ I h e a r d t h e s a m e suffered a blow over the RETAIL SPACE + 1.72 ac w/Addl The hit occurred late in thing (about Miller going to summer when junior Hudson WKHÀUVWKDOIDV6WHSKHQV&RXQW Gainesville), then I noticed Collins suffered a broken leg in Area to add Units. Each Bldg has was driving into Union County the helicopter, and I thought, a jet ski accident. Then, before 1BD, 1BA, Open Concept, Sunrms, territory. While attempting to ‘They are about to land right the Stephens County game, Wd Flrs, Fplc , Cvr’d Porches, paved make a tackle, Miller collided here,’” Stowe said. “Then after junior Mikey Davis injured with a teammate, creating it landed, one of the coaches his knee. Parking. Desirable Location & what Stowe described as a told me that they decided to With the exception of Potential. ML430624 $475,000 “whiplash” situation. airlift him.” Clason, every other player “Best I can tell, as he’s M o m e n t s a f t e r t h e listed above is expected to COMMERCIAL STORE FRONT! RETAIL! going to make a tackle, the helicopter departed, Union return within a month, giving WAREHOUSE 3824sq’/Usable space. ball carrier, (fellow linebacker) C o u n t y s e n i o r S i r Z i o n Union County hope of entering Office Areas, Restrms, Display Areas, Micah Wallace and Braxton Thomson took a hard hit WKHÀQDOVWUHWFKRIWKHVHDVRQDW Grg drs, Lg warehouse w/Loft. GREAT are all getting to the same while catching a pass over full strength. SIGNAGE OPPORTUNITIES. LAND & spot at the same time,” Stowe the middle, resulting in an “Everyone is still on said. “And basically, he was ambulance ride to Gainesville. schedule to be back in either BUILDING ONLY. 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Listing Agent: Erin Brown • 706-781-9809 MAJOR PRICE IMPROVEMENT Virtually Staged 93 Whisperwood Trail | Blairsville, GA Now Offered for $649,000 New construction meets easy mountain living in this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath one-level home with an open floor plan, spacious living areas, generous kitchen, usable yard, and gated community amenities including a pool and pickleball courts. 2350 Dial Road | Blue Ridge, GA Now Offered at $799,000 • MLS #407551 This historic Appalachian farmstead spans 15.8 acres with Toccoa River frontage, NEW LISTING fenced pastures, 5 bedrooms, 8 fireplaces, original 1880s outbuildings, and the character of a true North Georgia homestead. Listing Agent: Robert Rogers • 706-897-0962 96 Taylors Court | Blairsville, GA 45 Green Cove Road | Brasstown, NC Offered at $349,900 • MLS #434426 Offered for $189,000 Three levels of mountain living just five miles from downtown Blairsville. This Versatile 3.89-acre Brasstown property with a picturesque creek, 3-bedroom, 3-bath wood cabin offers a bedroom and bath on each floor, plus a open pasture, two RV hookups, installed septic, one-room cabin, stone fireplace, game oroom, covered porches, and screened porch. and extra storage—ideal for a peaceful mountain retreat, hobby farm, or future homesite. Listing Agent: Tina McDaniel • 706-713-6004
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7A Friesen Promoted Thank Thank You, ...from Page 1 You, assignments. His selection Friesen’s promotion completes his graduate studies. for merit-based promotion to became effective July 1, 2026. His family and Major reflects his record of He is the son of Drew and hometown community proudly B lairsville performance and the Army’s Anne Friesen of Suches. He celebrate this significant Blairsville confidence in his ability to and his wife, Ashley, have one milestone in his Army career serve at increased levels of son and currently reside in the and his continued service to responsibility. Dayton, Ohio, area while he the nation. for for stepping stepping up up for for students! students! 400 400 pairs pairs of of new new athletic athletic shoes oes w ere given were given toto Union Union rrrd d County County sstudents tudents inin our our 33 annual annual Back Back toto School School Shoe Shoe Drive. ve. Maj. Andy Friesen, center, with wife Ashley and son. His promotion to U.S. Army Major went into effect July 1. Photo/Submitted Healing Hands Community Clinic, Inc. Anniversary Healing Hands Community Clinic, Inc. Staff Come and join us, Sat- Healing Hands is fund- ease and Hepatitis C. urday, September 19th, from 9 ed solely by the generosity of The Clinic is unable to AM until 12 PM for our Open the community and is staffed treat children under the age of House. You will have the op- entirely by volunteers. The 2, chronic pain, conditions that portunity to fellowship with Clinic provides basic health- UHTXLUHWKHFDUHRIDVSHFLDOLVW our staff and grab some cake care to those members of our or provide women’s health. and coffee! community who are uninsured We are not a Walk-In- Healing Hands Commu- and are unable to afford insur- Clinic and are unable to pronity Clinic, Inc. is so excited DQFHGXHWRWKHLUÀQDQFLDOVLWX- vide emergency services. Apto be celebrating 17 years of ation. There is no charge to the pointments are necessary. community service! Healing ÀQDQFLDOOTXDOLÀHGSDWLHQWIRU If you need our servic- Hands, is a non-denomina- their medical visits. es, would like to volunteer or tional heath care ministry for The Clinic serves as Pri- would like to make a donathe uninsured of the moun- mary Care Provider, as well tion, please give us a call at WDLQDUHDDQGLVORFDWHGDW Blue Ridge Highway, Unit 2, as helping manage diabetes, COPD, high blood pressure, RUVWRSEWKH Open House and get to know 206 206 Hwy Hwy 515 515 EE || rivercity.bank rivercity.bank Blairsville, GA. high cholesterol, thyroid dis- us! BLAIRSVILLE UNION COUNTY NORTH GEORGIA PHASE ONE NOW RESERVING L AT E 2 0 2 6 T H E T E R R A C E S T O W N H O M E S For Sale FROM THE A walk to the square. A lifetime in the mountains. LOW $400'S A small, considered community of fifty-seven townhomes within walking distance to the Blairsville town square. Take a short drive to the lakes, rivers and the many trails these mountains are known for. Experience the beautiful scenery before enjoying a quiet evening at home. ONL< 57 TOWNHOMES PHASE ONE · R E S E R VAT I O N S O P E N · L AT E 2 0 2 6 I. T H E T O W N II. T H E L I F E III. T H E B U I L D Coffee on the square. Lock up. Go play. Built once. Built right. An easy walk to the courthouse green, the bakery No lawn to cut or leaves to rake. Spend your 2 x 6 framing. James Hardie siding. Metal and the town bookshop. Enjoy lunch and dinner time camping at Vogel State Park, boating on roofing. An insured ten year structural warranty. at the local restaurants, and weekend concerts on Lake Nottely, or hiking your favorite trails. All the highest standards a Georgia mountain the lawn. Come home to relax, not a list of home home should be held to. maintenance chores. Reserve your place before the rest of Blairsville does. THETERRACESTOWNHOMES.COM TOWNHOMES FROM THE LOW $400'S 7 0 6 . 4 0 7 . 4 111 · A L E D G E R L I V I N G C O M M U N I T Y LEARN MORE
Sports Page 8A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 See the Sports Section at nganews.com Panthers blanked at Stephens, lose two players to injuries Union looks to regroup during bye week, region play begins Sept. 18 By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com Toccoa - Union County’s GLIÀFXOWVWDUWWRWKHVHDVRQ WRRNDQRWKHUWXUQ)ULGDQLJKW DVWKH3DQWKHUVVXIIHUHGD ORVVDW6WHSKHQV&RXQWZKLOH DOVR VHHLQJ WZR SODHUV WDNHQ WRWKHKRVSLWDOGXULQJWKHJDPH $OUHDG GHDOLQJ ZLWK VHYHUDO LQMXULHV WKH 3DQWKHUV HQWHUHG )ULGD ZLWKRXW VHQLRU 5RE 7KRPSVRQ DQG MXQLRU 0LNH 'DYLV DQG IHOO EHKLQG DWKDOIWLPH-XVWEHIRUHWKH EUHDN 8QLRQ &RXQW VRSKR PRUHOLQHEDFNHU%UD[WRQ0LOOHU VXIIHUHG D EDFN LQMXU DQG ZDV DLUOLIWHG WR 6FRWWLVK 5LWH &KLOGUHQ·V+RVSLWDOLQ$WODQWD 'XULQJWKHWKLUGTXDUWHUVHQLRU 6LU=LRQ7KRPSVRQWRRNDKDUG KLWDQGZDVWUDQVSRUWHGEDP EXODQFHWR*DLQHVYLOOH )RUWXQDWHOERWKSODHUV ZHUHVHQWKRPHRYHUWKHZHHN HQG ZLWK 6LU =LRQ7KRPSVRQ UHWXUQLQJHDUO6DWXUGDPRUQ LQJ DQG 0LOOHU EHLQJ UHOHDVHG IURPWKHKRVSLWDO6XQGD0RUH Junior wide receiver and defensive back Haze Burnett earned praise 6HQLRUV6LU=LRQ7KRPSVRQ DQG&KHWOH&R[ OHDGWKH3DQWKHUVRQWRWKHÀHOGDW6WHSKHQV&RXQW GHWDLOV RQ 0LOOHU DQG7KRPS from head coach Rob Stowe after Friday’s game for his leadership on Thompson would leave the game with a concussion during the third quarter following a hard hit on an at- VRQ·VLQMXULHVDUHDYDLODEOHRQ both sides of the ball. Photo/Todd Forrest tempted screen pass. 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Photo/Todd Forrest Football: UCMS Panthers keep on rolling, improve to 4-0 The Union County Middle School Panthers football team is off to a 4-0 start, extending their overall winning streak to 12 games dating back to the start of the 2025 season. The Panthers defeated Fannin County 21-7 two weeks ago at Mike Colwell Memorial Stadium, then survived a 7-6 scare at Dawson County last week. The 6HQLRU*UDQW6PLWKUHWXUQHGODVW)ULGDDQGZDVRQHRIWKHEULJKWVSRWVLQWKHORVVDW6WHSKHQV&RXQWÁLS- Panthers host White County on Wednesday in a rematch of last year’s league championship game. Kickoff is SLQJWKHÀHOGZLWKVHYHUDOERRPLQJSXQWV3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW at 5:30 p.m. Photo/Todd Forrest 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. MOTORCRAFT IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF FORD MOTOR COMPANY. TAXES EXTRA SEE PARTICIPATING USA DEALERSHIP FOR EXCLUSIONS AND DETAILS. EXPIRES 9/30/26 $59.95 *PER-AXLE PRICE ON MOST VEHICLES. EXCLUSIONS APPLY. TAXES EXTRA. SEE PARTICIPATING USA DEALERSHIP FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 9/30/26 $179.95 CALL OUR SERVICE A?D= DEPARTMENT TODAY AT 800.388.2897 TO WHERE WE TREAT YOU LIKE ROYALTY SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9A Volleyball: Union sitting No. 1 as region play begins Thursday Panthers riding second 10-match winning streak of the year By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com )ROORZLQJ D UHFRUGVHW WLQJ$XJXVW8QLRQ&RXQWKDV SXW LWVHOI LQ WKH GULYHU·V VHDW HQWHULQJ WKLV ZHHN·V UHJLRQ RSHQHU,IWKH&ODVV$$$SOD RIIVEHJDQWRGDWKH3DQWKHUV ZRXOGEHWKH1RRYHUDOOVHHG EDVHG RQ WKH *+6$·V ODWHVW 3RVWVHDVRQUDQNLQJV 365 7KH 3DQWKHUV PRYHG LQWRWKHWRSVSRWDPRQJ&ODVV $$$ SXEOLF VFKRROV ZLWK D UHFRUG DIWHU VZHHSLQJ D SDLURIPDWFKHVDW*LOPHUODVW 7XHVGD GHIHDWLQJ WKH KRVW %REFDWVDQG&ODVV$'DOWRQ +LJK 6FKRRO 7KH YLFWRULHV PDUNHG8QLRQ&RXQW·VVHFRQG PDWFKZLQQLQJVWUHDNRIWKH VHDVRQ DQG DQ WK VWUDLJKW ZLQDWKRPH7XHVGDZRXOGHV WDEOLVKDQHZSURJUDPUHFRUG 8QLRQKRVWV3LFNHQVDQG 5DEXQ*DS1DFKRRFKHHVWDUW LQJ DW SP 7XHVGD 7KH 3DQWKHUVKDYHDOUHDGGHIHDWHG 3LFNHQVWKUHHWLPHVWKLVVHDVRQ KHDGOLQHGEDSDLURIVWUDLJKW VHWYLFWRULHV8QLRQDQG3LFN HQV ZLOO RSHQ 7XHVGD·V WUL Junior Emry Sosensky topped 500 career digs last week and will likely At 23-3, Union County volleyball is currently the top-ranked public school in Class 3A in the latest PSR rank- PDWFK ZKLFK FRQFOXGHV ZLWK break the school’s career kills record this week. Photo/Todd Forrest ings, and sits at No. 3 in ScoreAtlanta’s Week 4 volleyball rankings. 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Page 10A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 Pack 101, speaks to Smith’s Legion Chapter The Ability Connection: #2699, United Daughters of the Confederacy® It’s Time to Grab His Attention same time. There were lots of for the reading, writing and trial and error, nothing was ab- arithmetic lesson of the day. solute, and my memories put From baby boomer to me front and center. Being in 21st century childhoods, I can the thick of things and ready say that our memories con- to roll was how I grabbed my verge with similar sights and son’s attention. So, let’s scroll sounds. Rob and my play- Silence is golden... or is down my visual highlights to grounds are decades apart, it? Silence has its meanings, as see how I graded my progress but visualization help both of does attention. No talking, the during his growing up years. us see the error of our ways salute, and sitting with folded First off, I learned that and the victories of success- hands name a few. There is silence needs sounds to get ful strategies. It’s a power- also a certain irony about si- focus. Resorting to singing, ful tool and lets us close one lence when sounds warrant the not mine anymore, lets Rob door and open another. I say attention. There’s the horn, the get the job done on his terms. that literally. It really struck a siren and the screech of a car. I The rhythm anchors him for chord with me when I replay do the countdown from 10 to 1 concentration. When the im- my out-of-breath displays of when stuck in traffic. pulsivity kicks in, counting is frustration as I navigated my Art Garfunkel and Paul the metronome I use so Rob’s high school career days. It felt Simon best summed it up with thoughts are quieted. Then, the like 10 things were coming “The Sound of Silence.” This ball is in his court to figure out into my brain simultaneously. Elizabeth Salvatore, UDC Chapter Vice President, Murphy, NC; Rebekah Anderson, Pack Leader; Ana song is my blueprint for out- how to zoom back into focus. The lightbulb went off, the Hall, Pack Leader; and Ann Atchison, UDC Chapter President, Young Harris, GA lining a meaningful path for Seeing me close my eyes and siren sounded, and the notes opment, personal health and Clay and Cherokee Counties my son Rob, who is autistic. I number down did the trick as changed when Rob’s challeng- fitness, and personal safety. of North Carolina. am a baby boomer, and in my he, at times, does the same. es were related to mine. Our group meets monthly as The objectives of the time tunnel, movement and Then, there are the One final note before a group called Pack Meetings, UDC are to be Historical, Be- sound took a front seat to get a clashes between us. Look- I close: music in our home is and weekly as smaller groups nevolent, Educational, Memo- reaction. The road had its dips ing Rob in the eye is a chal- a mainstay. As a kid and an called Dens, which are sepa- rial, and Patriotic. Eligibility and turns, but the drive was lenge for my 5-foot-1 frame. adult, I loved listening to re- The Smith’s Legion rated by age/grade level, most- requirements for the UDC in- worth it. I am not on an even playing cords and flipping on the ra- Chapter, #2699, of the United ly at First United Methodist clude women, 18 years of age A cleanup song did the field with his 5-foot, 6-inch dio. Now the Alexa has taken Daughters of the Confedera- Church in Blairsville. and older, who have a Con- trick for me in kindergarten. and growing physical form. its place but has the same recy® (UDC), Blairsville, GA, If families are interested federate Veteran in their blood By 9, and a fourth grader, all My solution is layered with a actions. Music helps our kids welcomed Rebekah Anderson in participating, we encourage line, lineal or collateral. Girls it took was my teacher clos- variety of sights and sounds. learn words, phrases, senand Ana Hall, Leaders of Pack them to reach out via our infor- younger than 18 can join the ing her eyes and turning off Standing on a chair or sitting tences and feelings in a natu- 101, BSA, Blairsville, GA, to mation site at www.beascout. Children of the Confederacy. the light. By 1975, I was a on the floor makes Rob find ral setting. Melody is a great speak to our Chapter about the org and entering the zip code If you are interested in 17-year-old licensed driver in my face and focus. Looking landscape for dancing while local Cub Scouts, who are a of 30512 for Blairsville. This joining the UDC and you are 11th grade, and a kick into the up or down definitely changes igniting our memories. So, get non-profit organization that is Pack welcomes children from not sure of your ancestry, we trashcan got my music class in the room’s tempo. Another re- out your book of memories open to all children ages 5 to Towns, Union, and Fannin can help you search your fam- line. alization, turning off the Alexa and begin your journey with 11 (Kindergarten to 5th grade). Counties of Georgia, and from ily lineage. Individuals inter- As the late ’70s entered and its music is like lights off your child. Scouting is a great op- Clay and Cherokee Counties ested in helping to preserve my orbit, reality was the sign for me in Mrs. Jones’ fourth- Remember to join in on portunity for boys and girls to of North Carolina. Southern Heritage, but have on a closed college door in grade class. I hope that Rob the fun times in Blairsville’s participate in activities such The Smith’s Legion no southern linage, can join as Mitten Hall. A missed one- feels a similar jolt to get redi- many family activities this as camping, swimming, fish- Chapter meet most every 4th an Associate. hour exam quickly taught me rected. Oh, and lights off and month. Nothing can compare ing, playing sports, and field Saturday, 11 AM, at the Mock For more information, the importance of punctuality. technology breaktime also is a to laughter and making new trips. Our Scouts can also House Annex, Blairsville, GA. please contact TARA62860@ Since the Galaxy phone watch game changer. memories. The square is filled earn awards and have fun Chapter members are from aol.com. Men can join the lo- or musical tone on the cell Fortunately, I never with music these days. We are while learning the values of Towns, Union, and Fannin cal David W. Payne Camp wasn’t invented, to say that kicked our trashcan, but once all in this together. For more citizenship, character devel- Counties of Georgia, and from #1633, SCV, Blairsville, GA. experience wasn’t an attention I jumped up and down very information about the Ability grabber would be an under- loudly on our floor. Rob’s Connection, visit our Face- OUWGA 2026 Gatlinburg Girls Golf Trip Events statement. Time to go back to the drawing board and figure startled expression said it all. He and I both stopped in our book Group at Special Needs Families in Union County. What a wonderful time scramble was played at Wild for grabs making for a fun and out how I was going to ace the tracks, then had our talk with You can also visit Luke’s the Old Union Women’s Golf Laurel Golf Course. Once exciting evening. next exam. By the ’80s, I was our signed written contract. Place at lukesplaceblairsville. Association had this past again, the league was divided The following night, the in a different universe as jobs I equate scheduling to prime org to see the amazing silent week in Gatlinburg. It made into two flights, but this time, ladies played a game called, and parenting skills were in time on the movie screen. auctions, raffles, and to check for competitive golf, laugh- the teams were formed using ‘Never Have I Ever.’ Every- the forefront. When the scene is set, it fol- out the Battle of the Bands. ter, friendship and memo- similar handicaps. The ladies one started with 27 chips. The As the new century ap- lows a familiar pattern. Like This September 19th event ries to last a lifetime. From enjoyed a special treat when object was to name something proached, so did a 21st century me running from one end of from 1-5 p.m. is sure to delight two beautiful days of golf to two former members of the you had never done and hope baby, Robert. I revisited my my school’s hallway or steps all family members. games, prizes, music, dancing league, Allison and Martha, that other ladies had done it. past to relive those feelings to get 45 minutes of instruc- Oh, by the way, I am and plenty of laughter, this trip were able to join the group for The ladies with the most chips with Rob and turned it into tion time, Rob’s daily schedule giving myself a solid B as my gave the lady golfers so many golf. Everyone was a winner at the end won the prizes. Two action. Autism expanded my necessitated time frames and a grade-point average. special memories. at Wild Laurel because every of the most memorable state- world and secluded it at the destination. Check this one off Submitted by Lisa Kramer On Wednesday, August team received a payout with ments came from Susan Fur- 26, a scramble was played at a total purse of $232. Flight man who said, ‘Never have the beautiful Island Pointe A, first place went to Rach- I ever colored my hair,’ and Golf Course. There were seven foursomes divided into elle Cronje, Gail Cole, Vikki Fortner and Viola Copenhaver from Mary Tribble who said, ‘Never have I had my children NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE two flights with teams formed with a 70. Second place went in the hospital.’ Those answers using ABCD pairings. The to Shirley Dallas, Pat West- certainly had everyone laugh- At a Called Meeting of the Union County Commission scheduled course was awesome, and the brook, Glenda Geddings and ing. for October 1, 2026 at 10:00am, Union County Government will staff was extremely welcom- Nancy Outlaw with a 71. Third And, of course, no ing, but the highlight of the place went to Marcie Palacios, girls’ trip would be complete be adopting the proposed Ordinance Revisions to Chapter 44, Article day belonged to Marcie Pala- Becky London, Susan Furman without music and dancing. III of the Union County Code of Ordinances related to Data Centers, cious. Marcie is a relatively and Karen Mussoline with a A heartfelt thank you goes to Cyrptocurrency and Data Mining. The Called Meeting will be held at new member of Old Union, 72. Judy McCully and Glenda and she accomplished some- In Flight B, the first Geddings for their music and the Union County Courthouse located at thing every golfer dreams of place went to Mary Mott, their dancing and helping to ...a Hole-In-One. She was pre- Nancy Harvill, Pat Strickland make the final night so much 65 Courthouse Street, Blairsville, Georgia in the Jury Assembly Room. sented with a check for $294 and Judy McCulley with a 76. fun. Aside from those games, from the league’s Hole-In-One Second place went to Connie the ladies played Charades 7KH ¿QDO GUDIW RI WKLV 2UGLQDQFH ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH RQ WKH ZHEVLWH fund. Marcie, then, generously Leips, Debbie Estes, Paula which provided plenty of and hard copies will be available in the Union County Commissioner’s purchased a round of drinks Stratton and Kathleen Bolin laughs and was a wonderful for all the ladies to celebrate. with a 77. Third place went to way to end their trip. 2I¿FH DQG ZLWK WKH 8QLRQ &RXQW &OHUN RI 6XSHULRU &RXUW DV RI Congratulations to Marcie on Jane Childers, Cynthia Panter, A special thanks to ev- September 9, 2026. an incredible accomplishment Betsy Hyde and Donna Tip- ery lady who contributed to especially during her first golf ton. Fourth place went to Ka- make this trip such a success. The following meetings have been held in relation to this ordinance: trip with the ladies. thie McAfee, Mary Tribble, So many of the ladies gave The Island Pointe Re- Sandy Synder and Sheila their time, energy and gener- 1st Reading – May 21, 2026 sults were as follows: Flight Baggett with an 80. Closest to osity to make sure everyone 1: first place went to Rach- the Pin on Hole 2 was Connie had a wonderful experience. Public Hearing – June 11, 2026 elle Cronje, Cynthia Panter, Leips. A special Thank You Thank you, also, to those who 2nd Reading – August 20, 2026 Karen Mussoline and Con- goes to Cameron Forrest, the donated appetizers, breakfast nie Leips with a 72. Second Director of Golf at Old Union, items, desserts, drinks, coffee, place went to Susan Furman, who generously donated priz- supplies, prizes and so much POSITION AVAILABLE Judy McCulley, Gail Cole and es for the closest-to-the-pin more. The generosity of the Betsy Hyde with a 73. Third contests. The winners had a ladies makes the Old Union Water Treatment Plant Operator-Trainee place went to Shirley Dallas, choice of the $25 gift card to Women’s Golf Association a Mary Tribble, Pat Westbrook the pro shop or a free round very special league. The ladies and Nancy Harvill with a 73. of golf. Thank you, Cameron, of Old Union know how to Flight 2: first place went to for thinking of the ladies even play golf, but more important- The City of Blairsville is currently accepting applications for a full time Marcie Palacios, Pat Strick- while they were out of town ly, they know how to have fun Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee for the Water Treatment Plant. land, Viola Copenhaver and enjoying a golf trip at Pigeon together. The league is already Kathie McAfee with a 70. Sec- Forge. looking forward to their next Essential Duties and Responsibilities --- The water treatment plant operator ond place went to Glenda Ged- The fun certainly didn’t girls’ golf trip. Information dings, Sheila Baggett, Jane stop when the golf ended. will be made available as soon must exercise independent judgment for routine and non-routine operation of Childers and Kathleen Bolin Of course, no girls’ golf trip as the planning begins. a surface water treatment plant and for production of drinking water that meets with a 71. Third place went would be complete with- If you are interested or exceeds the parameters of regulatory agencies (EPA and EPD). Operator to Nancy Outlaw, Donna Tip- out some evening fun. On in joining this ladies’ league ton, Becky London and Paula Wednesday evening, the ladies where all levels of golf talent also must follow established plant operational procedures. Duties include but Stratton with a 72. Closet to played Bingo with a special, are exhibited, please call Kar- are not limited to the performance of quality control testing procedures; meathe pin was Mary Tribble on ‘only one winner’ rule. Ten en Mussoline at 352-638-3649 suring and adjusting chemical feed rates; operating and monitoring pumps; Hole 15. wonderful prizes, valued be- or Cynthia Panter at 706-633- On Thursday, the second tween $25 and $50, were up 7587. operating filtration units; monitoring consumer water usage and adjusting dis- tribution system control equipment accordingly to maintain necessary tank Ninth District Opportunity, Inc. awarded federal funds levels while meeting the demand. This employee will maintain chemical inven- under The Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program Phase 43 tories, plant operation reports, and assist with mechanical work and routine shelter programs in high-need or shelter programs, and 5) if equipment, and other facility maintenance as well as collect water samples. The areas around the country. they are a private voluntary new hire must be able to obtain a class III Georgia state surface water opera- A Local Board made up organization, they must have tor’s certification within nine months of hire date. The water treatment plant of various local agencies and a voluntary board. Qualifying Towns & Union County churches will determine how agencies (not individuals) are operator must have mechanical aptitude and good communications skills. The has been chosen to receive the funds awarded to Towns urged to apply. physical duties include but are not limited to walking, reaching, climbing stairs 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 and ladders, standing for long periods and lifting 50 lbs. or more. Also must be grams in the county. food and shelter programs run Food and Shelter funds pre- able to deal with heights and enclosed spaces and be able to operate a fire hose. The selection was made by local service agencies in viously with Ninth District Shifts are typically 8-12 hours and will vary due to demand. Operator must be 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 able to work nights, weekends, holidays and overtime when necessary. 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 Minimum Qualifications --- High school diploma or GED; possess a valid Agency and consists of rep- able under this phase of the local individuals and families. Georgia driver’s license; must pass a drug test and have a satisfactory motor resentatives from American program. Public or private volun- vehicle record as well as have your own transportation to work. Red Cross; Catholic Chari- Under the terms of the tary agencies (not individuties, USA; National Council of grant from the National Board, als) interested in applying for The city offers excellent benefits and paid time off. the Churches of Christ in the local agencies chosen to re- Emergency Food and Shelter Applications can be picked up at City Hall, 62 Blue Ridge Street 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, or online at www.blairsville-ga.gov and can be dropped off at City Hall and, United Way of America. of government, 2) have an ac- Ninth District Opportunity, or mailed to PO Box 307, Blairsville, GA 30514. The Local Board was charged counting system, 3) practice Inc, P.O. Drawer L, Gaines- Applications will be accepted until position is filled. to distribute funds appropri- nondiscrimination, 4) have ville, GA, 30501. The dead- Questions regarding position can be directed to Mayor or City Clerk at 706-745-2000. ated by Congress to help ex- demonstrated the capability to line to submit a request is Sep- The City of Blairsville is an equal opportunity employer. pand the capacity of food and deliver emergency food and/ tember 11, 2026.
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 11A Duck Derby benefits from major community backing children to where some ducks just before the race began. were caught on rocks and kept “It’s wonderful for ev- an eye on the little ones when erybody – old, young, every- they crawled down the banks body,” Ellen agreed, with Kit- to help the wranglers. tridge adding, “It’s going to a “It’s a fun event because good cause.” it’s fun for the kids and every- As always, 100% of fun- body to get out and watch the draising proceeds will be go- ducks – especially on a nice ing toward Shop With A Cop, day like today – and it’s not a charitable program coordi- even totally expensive. Most nated by Blairsville PD and people can afford a duck,” Union County Family Con- Kittridge believed, with each nection to treat well-deserving quacker coming in at $10 local children to presents un- each. Some were even sold der their Christmas trees. Healthy Minds for Better Lives, Inc. What¼s Behind Our Addictions? Ephesians 4:17-19 talks about how our hearts can be blind and ignorant, alienated from God with our understanding darkened, due to having vanity of the mind. This leads to callousness. Vs. 19: “Who being past feeing have given themselves over unto lasciviousness [sensuality], to work all uncleanness with greediness.” What brings us to alcohol, drug, or sexual addiction, food addiction, and even gambling? How about video game addiction, where responsibilities are neglected in order to serve self? Sins of instant gratification, greed, lust, pride, selfishness – aren’t these all at the heart of any addiction? Are we worshiping the idol of self? God calls us to die to self and live for Christ (see Gal. 2:20, Phil. 1:21). Jesus has broken the chains of darkness, so turn to Him for your healing, forgiveness, and victory. Corralling all the entries of the annual Duck Derby is a task, but law enforcement officers from multiple local agencies and healthymindsamerica.wixsite.com/healthy-minds other volunteers were up to the task Saturday. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks By Brittany Holbrooks bucket over the bridge. Unfor- ed on banks and waded in the North Georgia News Staff Writer Some 3,268 ducks tunately, not as many tickets sold this year as compared to in the past, but there were more creek with paddles and rakes, ready to dislodge ducks from weeds or help them tumble off PUBLIC NOTICE turned the waters of Butter- prizes – 208 to be exact. rocks. Union County is applying for funding assistance under Title 49 U.S.C. nut Creek yellow on Saturday, “This is our first Duck Rhonda Wells has Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act pertaining to rural areas. Sept. 5, marking a successful Derby, and it’s really exciting served as Safe Pet’s Vice Pres- 2026 Duck Derby Fundraiser and it’s so cute,” said Darlene ident for two years, but knows Union County will offer general public transportation to all citizens of for the Blairsville Police De- Kaman, who, together with her that for five years, the organi- Union County for any worthwhile purpose, including but not limited to partment’s Shop With A Cop husband John, joined a small zation has been coming back shopping, medical treatment, social services, and other purposes. for Christmas Program. party of people who walked to- to support the Duck Derby. In People of all ages turned ward the bridge following the addition, they see the project Union County solicits private sector input and participation to assure out to the Union County Farm- ducks. “It’s for a good cause through to the end, and Wells WKDW SULYDWH IRUSUR¿W WUDQVSRUWDWLRQ RSHUDWRUV KDYH D IDLU DQG WLPHO ers Market to watch the rubber – it just doesn’t get any better. said that some Safe Pet volwaterfowl race for the finish You walk under the trees in the unteers also help out at Shop opportunity to participate in the development of this program. line. shade and just watch the ducks With A Cop. Union County also solicits comments and concerns from the general Kids and adults alike fol- go down. It’s really fun.” Meanwhile, Karen Kitlowed along the banks shortly Once again, volunteers tridge was watching on the population on local rural public transportation services. after the ducks were released with the Safe Pet Project served sidelines with her friend El- Union County also solicits comments and concerns from the elderly, from their tractor escort’s as duck wranglers. They wait- len. They directed curious low-income, and disabled population and their representatives to as- sure that issues relating to the disabled are addressed in the service design proposed during the planning process. Interested persons are invited to request that a public hearing be held to discuss the services being offered or development of the application. Written comments, requests for a public hearing and/or written notice RILQWHQWESULYDWHIRUSUR¿WWUDQVSRUWDWLRQRSHUDWRUVWRSURYLGHRUSDU- ticipate in any or all of the above services should be submitted no later WKDQ¿IWHHQ GDVIURPWKHGDWHRIWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQWR Union County Commissioner, Harold Collins 65 Courthouse St., Box 1 Blairsville, GA 30512 706-439-6000 ,I QR UHVSRQVH LV UHFHLYHG ZLWKLQ WKH ¿IWHHQ GDV 8QLRQ &RXQW will proceed with the application to the Georgia Department of Transportation. More than 3,000 ducks swam the Butternut Creek this week as the Blairsville Police Department and other volunteers conducted their annual Shop With A Cop fundraiser at the Farmers Market. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Troop 101 Run to Eagle 5K returning to Meeks Sept. 12 Participants from the inaugural Run to Eagle 5K in 2025. The race returns to Meeks Park this weekend to benefit Scouting America Troop 101 Blairsville. Photo/Submitted By Delaney Derry along with an additional prize “We try to get them out North Georgia News from another local business. of the state a lot to show them Staff Writer Pat’s Hallmark Shop there’s different things besides The trails of Meeks Park and Moog are sponsoring this just Union County and Blairswill be filled Sept. 12 with run- year’s race. ville,” Rosa said. “We want ners, walkers and plenty of While the 5K offers a them to experience other places Scout spirit as Scouting Amer- morning of exercise and friend- besides just their local area.” ica Troop 101 Blairsville pre- ly competition, its primary pur- For Rosa, exposing pares to host its Second Annual pose is to raise money for the Scouts to environments beyond Run to Eagle 5K. Scouts of Troop 101. the North Georgia Mountains is This walk/run benefit “What this money is an important part of helping the is open to participants of all used for is to give every Scout children grow. ages and will allow community the same opportunity, whether While the mountains members to get active while some have the ability to pay for provide plenty of opportunisupporting local Scouts and some of the trips or they don’t,” ties to learn about the outdoors, their year-round activities. said Troop 101 Scoutmaster Joe traveling to a different envi- Registration begins at 7 Rosa. “We want every Scout to ronment can challenge Scouts a.m. this Saturday, with the race have the same opportunity, so to adapt, experience different scheduled to start at 8 a.m. Par- if they can’t, the troop will pay ways of life and step outside of ticipants can preregister online for those trips for those kids.” their comfort zones. for $25 or register at the event Funds raised through And the Run to Eagle 5K booth on race day for $35. Each the event will also help cover is one way the community can registered participant will re- things like Scout uniforms, help make those experiences ceive a race day T-shirt. books and other necessary sup- possible. Online registration is plies. The money can be used With the event entering available at https://www.ac- to replenish and repair equip- its second year, organizers are tive.com/. On the Active home ment as well, such as life vests hopeful that more people will page, set the ZIP to 30512 and and canoes, and assist with up- participate now that word has search for “Run to Eagle 5K,” keeping the troop’s facilities. begun to spread, with about 17 and the Blairsville-based event Troop 101 currently has participants having preregiswill be at the top of the results about 30 Scouts. Like other tered so far. page. Scouting America troops, the Last year, about 37 peo- The course will follow group is youth-led, with Scout- ple preregistered before race a predetermined route around masters providing guidance as day, with another 45 partici- Meeks Park, with arrows Scouts learn skills in leader- pants registering as walk-ups. placed throughout the course to ship, life and the outdoors. This year, Rosa hopes to see at guide participants. Troop 101 The troop is already least 100 racers take part. Scouts will also be stationed looking toward its next ad- For those interested in along the route to cheer on rac- venture. Rosa said Troop 101 the 5K, remember to preregers and operate water stations. hopes to take the Scouts on a ister at www.active.com for Medals will be awarded high-adventure trip to a state some fresh air and community to winners in each age group. park along the Gulf Coast, connection, while also helping The overall male and female where they can experience Troop 101 continue giving its winners will receive gift bas- camping, deep-sea fishing and Scouts opportunities to learn, kets from Brasstown Pharmacy other activities unique to the explore and experience the Drug & Gun in Blairsville, coastal environment. world beyond their hometown.
Page 12A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 &LWL]HQV$FDGHPFRQFOXGHVZLWKVXFFHVVIXOÀUVWRXWLQJ By Shawn Jarrard particularly at the Union North Georgia News County Jail, Fire Department, editor@nganews.com the new E-911 Center and Applause and Courthouse. And participants got live demonstrations of expressions of gratitude greeted the Union County Sheriff’s HTXLSPHQW OLNH GURQHV DQG Office on Thursday, Sept. distraction devices, and even 3, as the five-week Citizens spent time with a DNR K-9. Academy came to a close inside On the final night, the Jury Assembly Room of the attendees were treated to a Union County Courthouse. delicious dinner catered by Jim’s Smokin’ Que before The 42 participants of the inaugural Citizens Academy wrapping up the academy with received certificates of discussions about four other completion and challenge coins areas of law enforcement under IRUÀQLVKLQJWKHFRXUVHZKLFKUCSO. served as a solid introduction Sgt. Jamie Campbell and to all aspects of local law Deputy Nicholas Jones talked enforcement as well as outside about courthouse security; resources available in Union Lt. Julio Cruz discussed Civil County. Service; Sheriff Shawn Dyer Attendees heard spoke on Animal Control; from UCSO partners first, and Capt. Daren “Bear” including Blairsville Police, Osborn gave a presentation on 7KHLQDXJXUDOFODVVRIWKH8QLRQ&RXQW6KHULII·V2IÀFH&LWL]HQV$FDGHPRQ7KXUVGD6HSW Photo by Shawn Jarrard Union County Schools Police, monitoring sex offenders. serve in support roles at public the Department of Natural D e b o r a Q u i g l e y o f YHQXHVVXFKDVWUDIÀFFRQWURO Resources Law Enforcement, the Union County Sheriff’s during parades and festivals, the Georgia Bureau of Foundation summarized the and as “eyes and ears” in places Investigation and Georgia StateLESS Crime Tax Credit and like the Farmers Market and Patrol, and later from Union how people can donate to Meeks Park. County Fire and E-911. earn dollar-for-dollar income The program will be People also learned WD[FUHGLWV7KHQRQSURÀWZDV capped at 15 volunteers, all about all the different areas established to support UCSO by of whom will be subject to within the Sheriff’s Office, SDLQJIRUHTXLSPHQWWUDLQLQJ background checks, with with instruction by actual public education materials, etc. preference for individuals deputies assigned to each Deputy E d d i e retired from law enforcement division. The knowledge Henderson, who organized and other first responder imparted ran the gamut the academy and emceed each careers. Stay tuned for more from criminal investigations evening between Aug. 6 and information. to scams, narcotics, patrol, Sept. 3, announced that the Resident Shirley crimes against children and 6KHULII·V2IÀFHLVSODQQLQJWR Anderson thoroughly enjoyed beyond. start a new Auxiliary Program. her time at the Citizens Tours played a central Auxiliary volunteers $FDGHP 1R VWUDQJHU WR ÀUVW role in the academy as well, will not be deputized but will response – she has Emergency Medical Services training and currently volunteers at Fire Station No. 2 – Anderson appreciated getting a deeper understanding of local law enforcement. “It helps you learn how the county works with other departments – they work real well together,” Anderson said. “Some counties, you don’t see that, but our people all work together for the same cause. “Like when there’s a wreck, we all show up and do our job. There’s no argument about who is in charge. We just work together to get it done and go on. And we look after each other, too.” The academy will return, and Anderson recommends the experience to anyone, as does UCSO Deputy Nicholas Jones spoke on the need for advanced Richard Brown, who said he training and situational awareness for law enforcement appreciates the “understanding RIÀFHUVZLWKWKH&RXUWKRXVH6HFXULW'LYLVLRQ and education” he received Photo by Shawn Jarrard IURPWKH6KHULII·V2IÀFH “I enjoyed touring the jail and new 911 Center, checking all that out and seeing how things are run,” Brown said regarding his favorite aspects of the academy. “I’ve actually been letting people know about it at work, and they said they’d be interested.” Sheriff Dyer ended the night with appreciation of his own, both for his dedicated staff who helped make the very Start EarningToday ÀUVWDFDGHPSRVVLEOHDQGIRU all the attentive participants, and he let attendees know that he hoped they would stay in WITH BANK OZK! touch down the road. “If there’s anything that me or my staff can do for y’all, please come by and see us,” Dyer said. Keep an eye out for 4.10 future Citizens Academy % signups, as the sheriff plans 'U5D$VKXUVWSRVLQJIRUDSLFWXUHUHFHLYLQJKLVFHUWLÀFDWH to host the class at least once a RIFRPSOHWLRQIURP6KHULII6KDZQ'HURQWKHÀQDOQLJKWRI year moving forward. the Citizens Academy. Photo by Shawn Jarrard 6-MONTH CD OR IRA CD** SPECIAL 4.20% 11-MONTH CD OR IRA CD** SPECIAL Visit one of our Blairsville, GA, locations or open an account online at ozk.com.** ozk.com *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective as of the publication date. $1,000 minimum deposit to open and is required to earn stated APY. Penalty for early withdrawal. IRA CD is subject to eligibility requirements. Offer not available to Public Funds, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions. Fees could reduce earnings. Offer subject to change without notice. Offer good at locations in Blairsville, GA only. **IRA CD must be opened in person and cannot be opened online.
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Page 2B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 The Mountain Community Choir Open Auditions YHC student returns from scholarship trip to Norway The Mountain Commu- be included, as well as some this community for 52 years. As Dickens would say, nity Choir is excited to begin a other works from American It is a welcoming group of it was the tale of two cities, new concert season and invite composers. The fall concert singers from across the region or actually, two countries for singers of all experience levels would not be complete with- who share a passion for music Laura Mauldin, a junior triple to join! Open auditions will be out some Christmas arrange- and fellowship. We pride our major at Young Harris Colheld on Monday, September ments to usher in the season chorus as a supportive place lege, who just spent her sum- 14th starting at 6 PM with the as well. where singers can grow musi- mer in Oslo, Norway, thanks first rehearsal following at 7 Terry Hooper is return- cally and experience the joy of to the Georgia Rotary Student PM. ing as musical director as well performing together. Program. Both will be held in the as Suzanne West and Cody Join this vibrant com- Mauldin was one of two basement of the fine arts build- Killian as accompanists. munity choir for another great students in Georgia selected ing at Young Harris College. The season will culmi- season of music as it delights by the Georgia Rotary Student There is no need for nate with performances on us with the beautiful sounds of Program for a scholarship ofsingers to prepare anything for November 20th and 21st. Both the season. fered by the Rotarians of Oslo, the audition, however, previ- will be held at McConnell For more details visit : Norway, for the 2026 Internaous choral experience and the Baptist Church in Hiawassee, http/www. mountain commu- tional Summer School at the ability to read music is most Georgia. nity chorus.org or email Terry University of Oslo. helpful. The Mountain Commu- Hooper at: rterry.hooper@ “It was an experience There is a $25 member- nity Chorus, has been a part of gmail.com. that held so many emotions ship fee that is collected at reg- at once that it’s hard to capistration. Rehearsals are held ture,” Mauldin said. “Most on Monday evenings from days started with three-hour 7-8:30PM. lectures, followed by home- This concert season will work and readings that never be a continuation of the “Cel- seemed to end. But as soon as Laura Mauldin, a junior triple major at Young Harris College, just ebrate America” theme from class was over, I’d step outside spent her summer in Oslo, Norway, thanks to the Georgia Rotary the Spring season. The Fall and remember I was in Nor- Student Program Concert will feature songs way, a place that practically independent and more con- coursework at the Internafrom various parts of the Unit- Question: I just read ing prenatal, postpartum, and begs you to explore.” fident in my ability to handle tional Summer School at Oslo ed States including: the theme that Georgia is undergoing a breastfeeding support in rural While trying to balance situations I cannot predict or University. from “New York, New York”, major maternal health over- counties to close those gaps. everything, Mauldin read on control,” Mauldin said. “Liv- “I am incredibly grate- “California Dreamin’”, “Chat- haul. Can you share more? These programs aim to bring buses, finished assignments in ing thousands of miles from ful to Rotary and Young Harris tanooga Choo Choo”, “The Answer: It is true, care closer to home and reduce little cafes, and squeezed ex- home taught me that indepen- College for making this expe- Yellow Rose of Texas”, and a Georgia is making significant the risks families face during ploring in whenever she could. dence is more than just being rience possible and for preparrousing arrangement by David changes to improve maternal pregnancy and after birth. “Some days I felt proud able to navigate a new city. ing me to take advantage of it,” Clydesdale of “the Stars and and infant health, especially Georgia also launched of how well I handled it; other It means trusting yourself to she said. “Their support gave Stripes Forever”! Of course for families in rural communi- the Maternal Health Vital- days I was just tired and try- solve problems, communi- me an opportunity that went “Georgia On My Mind” will ties. Recent statewide reports ity Think Tank: a statewide ing to keep up,” she said. cate with people who may see far beyond spending a month $ CASH 4 $ showed Georgia continues to collaborative working to “There was always something things differently, and keep in another country. They in- rank among the lowest states strengthen care networks, im- exciting waiting outside the going even when you are un- vested in an experience that $ $ for maternal outcomes, with prove coordination, and en- classroom. That’s what made comfortable. challenged me academically, $ Antique $ most pregnancy related deaths sure families don’t fall through the experience so special. It “Going forward, I think pushed me personally, and $ $ considered preventable. That the cracks. Alongside that, the $ Trucks & Cars $ reality pushed leaders, hospi- state’s Commission on Mater- wasn’t just studying abroad; it was learning how to manage I will carry a much greater introduced me to people and sense of curiosity and open- perspectives I may never have $ $ Tractors! $ $ tals, and community organi- nal & Infant Health released real academic pressure while ness toward other people,” she encountered otherwise.” Not Running & Rusted zations to rethink how care is 11 priority actions addressing still making room for adven- added. “Living with students It’s something she said $ $ $ Pre-1950’s $ delivered. mental health needs, post- ture and moments that made from around the world taught she will never forget. $ Labosco’s at the $ One major focus is Geor- partum care, hospital safety, the stress worth it.” me the importance of learn- “When I came home, I $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ gia’s large number of maternity home visiting programs, and The scholarship allowed ing from each other. I want kept thinking about how in- $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ care deserts, where women live workforce shortages. Mauldin to learn both inside to take that with me into my credible it was that people from $ $ far from hospitals offering la- Together, these efforts $ 706-745-0097 $ bor and delivery. In response, represent a meaningful shift and outside the classroom. education, career, and relation- more than 70 countries had all “Academically, I stud- ships.” come together in one place. CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! health systems are expand- toward a more connected, sup- ied at the International Sum- When she had time out Some of the people I became portive maternal health system mer School at the University of class, Mauldin explored Os- closest to had grown up in for Georgia families. “Join like-minded People” of Oslo in a course outside of my major,” she said. “The lo’s cultural side, from count- less museums, historic church- completely different cultures and circumstances from mine, Support Group class challenged me because es, ferries, and the islands and yet we spent a month shar- the material was unfamiliar, fjords. She even experienced a ing meals, laughing together, Tuesday, September 15 for Families and the workload was intense. piece of World Cup lore, join- struggling through classes, ex- 5:30 PM with Addicts Outside of class, I experienced Norwegian culture through ing the host Norwegians in the “Viking Row” - made famous ploring Oslo, and talking about our lives,” Mauldin said. “The Addiction affects ev- museums, fotball matches, during Norway’s run in last most emotional part of coming Pat Haralson Memorial eryone close to the addict. If churches, the Oslo Opera summer’s World Cup. home was realizing that Nor- Civic Center someone’s addiction to drugs House, ferry rides, fjords, and “I was one of over way had made the world feel is affecting you, we can help. much more.” 100,000 people rowing in the smaller. There are now people 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA Nar-Anon is a twelve step pro- In Norway from June street, welcoming home the across the world who were gram for families and friends 27 to July 25, Mauldin was national team in a parade, once complete strangers but Commissioner Harold Collins of addicts. At our meetings surrounded by students from voices full of pride and joy as who became an important part you will hear others, who are many countries, learning about we sang. It was incredible,” of my life. I think that is what and County Manager Tony Hughes going through similar prob- different cultures, religions, she said. I will remember most vividly will address county operations. lems, share about how they traditions, education systems, Mauldin’s very thank- - not just what Norway looked cope and find recovery. We and families. Yet, at the same ful for the Rotary scholar- like, but what it felt like to be- Food by Smoke N’ Loaded serving BBQ meet on Sunday from 6 PM time, she said she realized how ship that made it all possible. long to a small international Union County Democratic Party Monthly Meeting to 7 PM at 112 Cedar Lane, much people have in common. The scholarship included six community, even for only a Blairsville, GA 30512. “Norway made me more credit hours of undergraduate month.” #ALL !LLISON OR +ENNETH FOR MORE INFOMATION ON 706-745-6343 OUR LOW PRICED HIGH QUALITY PRINTING #LEVELAND 3TREET s "LAIRSVILLE 'EORGIA s "ROCHURES Copy Paper s 2ACK #ARDS s "USINESS #ARDS Ream s "USINESS &ORMS s 3TATIONERY $4.99 s ,ABELS s -AGNETICS Case s 3IGNS $49.99 Tri-fold Brochures FREE s "ANNERS s 0RESENTATION &OLDERS s 2AFmE 4ICKETS s .#2 FORMS Local s &LYERS s 2EAL %STATE "OOKLETS Business s #OLOR #OPIES Delivery Rack Cards
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3B Church News in the Mountains of North Georgia Handheld Sermon: Holier Than Thou Shady Grove UMC 9/11, A Quarter of a Century Later: UNITED WE STAND Have you ever asked New Book Study I once read of a flood his gate. People were doing The Rev. someone why they don’t go David Krout Shady Grove United where a group of dazed ani- what they customarily do at mals were found standing to- airports. Harried gate agents Victor H. Morgan to church? One answer comes New World Methodist Church in Blairsup more often than almost any ville will begin a new book gether on a small patch of dry were examining tickets and Rector Harvest Church ground. What made this scene checking in luggage. People other: study on Friday, September St. Luke’s “Christians are too judg- d_krout@ 13th using “What Grows in odd was that both predators were hurrying to catch their Church mental.” yahoo.com Weary Lands: On Christian and those upon whom they flights. In the waiting areas, Blue Ridge Whether we like hear- Resilience.” Attendees are traditionally prey were stand- people were watching through ing those words or not, many sin, He also offered grace. He asked to secure their own copy ing together. the plate-glass windows as it turned out, we were seatpeople have come to believe saw people not as projects to of the book. I have no idea whether planes landed and took off. mates. them. Some have encountered fix, but as souls to love. Free breakfast with Je- this incident actually hap- Two weeks later when The following day believers who seemed more Jesus warned us, “Why sus begins at 9:30 AM with the pened, but it is a good picture I arrived at the same airport while walking in Manhattan, interested in pointing out sinsdo u notice the splinter that is study at 10 AM. All are wel- of what we saw after 9/11. for a flight to Newark I found, I was amazed at how kind than showing compassion. in your brother’s eye, but ig- come to remain for the 11 AM For the most part, Americans like the man I just told about, everyone was being. It was Others have been made to nore the plank that is in your worship service. put their differences aside. myself in a different coun- like being in a small Southern feel unwelcome because they own eye?” (Matthew 7:3) The bleating of the perverse try. There were soldiers with town. People were holding didn’t look, act, or live the way Before we point a finger, Upcoming events purveyors of “identity poli- machine guns throughout the doors for others and talking to someone thought they should. we should remember that three tics” went silent. “United we ticketing area. The agents at strangers. Somewhere along the way, the fingers are pointing back at us. at Revival Baptist stand” became the watchword the counter were extra kind My most memorable phrase “holier than thou” be- Every Christian is a sinner Revival Baptist Church of the day. Like the stranded and attentive, thanking pas- experience was walking into came attached to Christianity. saved by grace. The ground is will be having their Home- animals on the patch of dry sengers for flying. No one the Cathedral of St. John the That should make us level at the foot of the cross. coming! It will be held on land, all Americans were in was accompanying friends Divine unaware a memorial stop and think. None of us earned our salva- Sunday, September 20th. Bro. this crisis together. and family members to their service for the employees of The truth is, followers tion, and none of us is better Todd Coker will be preaching One American who was gates. Security was at an all- the Windows of the World than anyone else. of Christ are called to stand for our morning service. There overseas at the time of the at- time high. was in progress. After the first God’s truth. We cannot change People may never re- will be no evening service. tack reported that when he When I arrived at my plane entered the North Towwhat the Bible teaches simply member every sermon we Starting Monday, Sep- was finally able to fly home, departure gate, a group of er, those on the floors above because culture changes. But preach, but they will remem- tember 21st through Friday, found himself in a different men working for a surveying the point of entry, including there is a tremendous differ- ber how we made them feel. September 25th we will be country. Walking through the company were already there. those working and eating in ence between speaking the Did they see the love of Christ having Fall Revival at Revival airport, hymns were playing A black man seeing my cleri- this iconic restaurant, were truth in love and speaking within us? Did they hear truth spo- Baptist Church! Bro. Richard over the loudspeakers. There cal collar came and sat down trapped and perished. an attitude of superiority. ken with kindness? Did they Cliner will be bring the mes- were far fewer people, and beside me and asked if I was It is one thing seeing Jesus never lowered leave believing that Jesus sage nightly at 7 PM, along those who were there were going to be on the flight to grieving people on television; God’s standard, yet sinners could forgive them? with special singing. speaking in hushed tones. Newark. When I said yes, he it is quite another to be handed were drawn to Him. Tax col- The world doesn’t need The church is located at I had a similar expe- said he had been praying for a lighted candle and to stand lectors, fishermen, lepers, Christians who act holier than 572 Ivylog Creek Road; Doug rience. One day before the someone like me to be on beside them as tears flowed and people with broken lives everyone else. It needs Chris- Gaines Pastor; 706-623-1015. Sept. 11 attack I took a visit- the flight. He then proceeded from their eyes. Speakers at wanted to be near Him. Why? tians who love like Jesus, live ing scholar to the Atlanta air- to offer me a portion of the this service included Senator Because while He confronted with humility, and remember Pastor Appreciation port and walked with him to sandwich he had bought. As Hillary Clinton and Mayor where they would be without at Snow Hill Baptist Rudy Giuliani. Political rhet- Liberty Hill His grace. Everyone welcome to A Method to our Madness: Exploring oric was put aside. There was The next time someone only concern for the suffering. Church Services looks at your life, may they come to worship with us at the Methodist Faith at Hiawassee UMC What have we learned Snow Hill Baptist Church on not see someone who is “ho- Have your ever won- low Jesus today. from 9/11? Apparently not Liberty Hill Church, lier than thou.” May they see Sunday, September 13, 2026 at 10 AM. We will be having dered what makes Methodists, The series begins much, as hate is strong and “A Little Church with a Big someone who is grateful that well, Methodist? Hiawassee Wednesday, September 16th, Heart”. We come together, ev- Christ loved them first. Pastor Appreciation Day. Mike mocks the message of “Unit- Perdue from Cleveland, GA United Methodist Church in- with fellowship and dinner at ed we stand.” Might it not be ery Sunday morning at 11 a.m. vites the community to join us 5:15 PM, followed by discusas a body of believers to wor- will be singing, dinner served time to put those banners back ship Jesus. We would love for Gibson/Vandiver after the service. Members and this fall for “A Method to Our sion and learning at 6 PM at up and this time really mean Madness,” a series of relaxed Hiawassee United Methodist and live those words? you to be part of our church family! Our church is located Family Reunion Pastor Stanley Gibson invites everyone. and engaging conversations Church, 1139 US Highway 76, KEEP, we beseech thee, The Gibson/Vandiver about the beliefs, practices, Hiawassee. Whether you’ve O Lord, thy Church with thy at, 255 Liberty Hill Road, GA Hwy. 515, just across the Fan- Reunion will be held at the Zion Baptist and history that shape the Wesleyan and United Method- been Methodist for decades or are simply curious about the perpetual mercy; and, be- Choestoe School House Sat- cause the frailty of man withnin/Union County, GA Line. urday, September 12, 2026; Church Services ist tradition. tradition, you’re welcome to out thee cannot but fall, keep Time: 11 AM; Location: 1034 Join us at Zion Church, Each week, participants join the conversation. us ever by thy help from all Shady Grove UMC Collins Road, Blairsville, GA. Suches each Sunday at 11 will explore where Methodists RSVP for dinner by the things hurtful, and lead us to 1604 Owltown Road Bring a covered dish, your AM, “Mega Signs for Our came from, what they believe, Monday before each gather- all things profitable to our sal- favorite dessert, and a drink. Lord’s Return”. Zion Church and how Wesleyan under- ing by calling the church office vation; through Jesus Christ Blairsville, GA Fried chicken, paper goods is located at 10 Zion Road and standings of grace, Scripture, at 706-896-2818 or registering our Lord. Amen. (Collect for (706) 781-4729 will be provided. Also bring Wolf Pen Gap Road (180) in salvation, and Christian living online at www.hiawasseeumc. the 15th Sunday after Trinity, photos so we can reminisce. Suches. shape the way Christians fol- org/form/better-together-rsvp. Book of Common Prayer) Mountain Mount Hebron Baptist Church St. Francis of Assisi Presbyterian Church We invite YOU to Come Worship With Us! Catholic Church Unity Church ŝŽĐĞƐĞŽĨƚůĂŶƚĂ Fr. Cong Nguyen, Pastor 3737 Hwy. 515 E, Blairsville of the Mountains /HGIRUG5RDG%ODLUVYLOOH VWFODUHVHSLVFRSDORUJ 706-745-6400 2309 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville Come worship with us www.stfrancisblairsville.com Sunday Worship 706-781-3393 Sunday mornings at 11 AM Service Times: +RO(XFKDULVWLQSHUVRQDQGRQ )DFHERRN6XQGD $0 Saturday Vigil: 11:00 am A path to with Fellowship following. Sunday Morning: 10:30 AM DQG:HGQHVGD 30 4:30 PM & 6:30 PM (Spanish) Sunday School 10:00 am spiritual living. 3831 GA-515 | Blairsville Wednesday: 7:00 PM Weekday Morning Prayer - 8 AM :HHNGD0RUQLQJ3UDHU $0 Sunday Masses: 8:30 & 11 AM Sunday Service 10:30 706-745-8036 1237 Booger Hollow Rd. &RPSOLQH 30 )DFHERRNRQO Sharing the love of Jesus in the Rev. Alex Nixon UnityChurchoftheMountains.org mtnpres.org 678-428-7118 Pastor Deron Shuler 7KH5HY/L]6FKHOOLQJHUKRXGW North Georgia Mountains and beyond Fundamental Liberty Baptist Church Independent 1709 Pat Colwell Rd. • Blairsville, GA Sunday School.......10:00 a.m. 706-745-8262 • Rev. Gary Rogers, Pastor Sunday Worship....11:00 a.m. Sunday School ......................................10:00AM Sunday Evening...... 5:00 p.m. Sunday Worship ...................................11:00AM Wednesday............ 7:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study ......................... 7:00PM 4231 Trackrock Gap Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Food Ministry Clothing Ministry Timothy L. Mason, Pastor First Tuesday Every Tuesday 706-745-3130 - Church Phone • www.slbcga.org 3:00-6:00PM 3:00-6:00PM N(Mar16,eow,ufn)B 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! 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Page 4B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 Church News in the Mountains Coosa Methodist Prepares for Annual Fall Sale Fall is just around the corner and the entire congregation of Coosa Methodist Church are using their talents in preparing handsome items and yummy edibles. The much awaited Coosa Craft, Bake, BBQ and Silent Auction will be on Saturday, October 3rd from 9 AM to 2 PM at the church located at 767 Mulky Gap Road. Proceeds will benefit the ministries and missions of Coosa Methodist. Coosa Methodist Church The crafts are very preparing their special recipes be provided as you dine on unique and beautifully made- to share with the community. delicious BBQ and the trim- SHIRLEY MAE NORMA JEAN GORDON WALTER SCHECTER never enough for the high There will be breads, cakes, mings! The BBQ plate in- FLANAGAN WHITEHOUSE demand. There are master cookies, pies and other sweet cludes a homemade dessert. Mrs. Shirley Mae Schect- Norma Jean Flanagan, age Mr. Gordon Walter White- er, age 86, of Hearth Stone Drive, craftsmen at Coosa who have treats. Come enjoy the shop- house, age 65, of Whitehouse prepared special pieces for the We don’t forget the ping and fellowship at Coosa 83 of Hiawassee, Georgia passed Blairsville, passed away peace- away Wednesday, September 3, Drive, Blairsville, passed away fully at her home Wednesday, silent auction. sugar free folks either. Look- Methodist Church, 767 Mulky 2026 at Chatuge Regional Nurs- peacefully surrounded by his lov- August 12, 2026 following a There are many differ- ing for handmade jams and Gap Road in Blairsville. ing Home. Norma was born ing family on Monday, August brief illness. Shirley was born ent items for sale too. jellies and pickles....they will Join us for worship ser- January 14, 1943 to the late Ross 31, 2026 at his home following on July 3, 1940 at King Daugh- Many bakers have their be there. vices on Sunday at 8:30 and and Mae (Anderson) Freeman in an extended illness. Mr. White- ter Hospital in Staunton, VA. She hands in the flour and sugar Live entertainment will 10:30 AM. N(Sep9,Z22)CA Shooting Creek, North Carolina. house was born on August 29, graduated from Lee High School 1961 in Waterbury, CT, the son and went to become an excep- She devoted her life to the chil- Why the Jewish New Year begins before dren of Towns County via 4-H of the late James Whitehouse, Sr., and the late Florence Kim- tional elementary teacher of thir- ty-six years. She was a wonder- and Safekids, to many of her kids there were Jews, Every nation tells its own story. she was Mamaw and loved them mer Whitehouse. Gordon was a veteran of the US Air Force. ful best friend and wife. Shirley learned to sign the Praise songs, as her own. She loved the Lord He enjoyed volunteering at the which she did at Fellowship of Americans celebrate In- The Hebrew Bible itself and enjoyed reading her bible. dependence Day. The French begins this way. Before it in- Rabbi VFW, hiking, camping, fishing, the Hills Church. This was her She enjoyed watching westerns traveling, swimming and work- prayer language to God. I know commemorate Bastille Day. troduces Abraham, before it Yonatan and walker texas ranger. She ing on automobiles. Most of that she loved Jesus Christ and is Families treasure birthdays tells the story of Israel, before Hambourger loved her dogs but most of all with him in Heaven . and anniversaries that mark there is a covenant with one all he loved spending time with she loved spending time with his family and friends. He was Surviving Shirley is her the moments which shaped nation, it tells the story of one TASTE OF her family. She will be deeply loving husband, Jordon; her sis- a loving and caring brother and who they are. man and one woman. The To- TORAH missed. uncle. He was preceded in death ter, Virginia Sensabaugh; daugh- The Jewish calendar is rah begins not with a people, She was preceded in by his parents; and also a sister, ter, Andrea Medina; son-in-law, no different. Passover cele- but with humanity. It reminds into a covenant with Abraham death by her parents; husband, Dorothy Whitehouse; and two Mark Medina; and grandkids, brates the Exodus from Egypt. us that every person is created is the same Creator who first Arthur Bradley, Cliff Flanagan; brothers, Chalie Whitehouse and Rachel and Tony Pipkin, Bob- Shavuot commemorates the in the image of G-d and pos- fashioned Adam and Eve. Be- son, George Bradley; sister, Bar- James Whitehouse Jr. Gordon bie Jones (husband Carlton, degiving of the Torah at Mount sesses a dignity that no nation, fore there was a chosen peo- bara Ann; granddaughter, Briana was of the Christian faith. ceased; with grand nieces, Jody Moore. She is survived by her Surviving Gordon are Carpenter, husband, Christian, Sinai. Chanukah remembers race, or culture can bestow— ple, there was a human family. Rachael and Robin Jones; nephthe victory of the Maccabees. or take away. That simple truth changes the daughter, Anita (Roger) Hicks; two sisters and one brother-in- brother, Eugene (Marilyn) Free- ew, Daryl Jones; family member Nearly every Jewish holiday The Lubavitcher Rebbe way we see one another. law, Brandi and David Small of deceased are Grady and Annie recalls an event in the history often emphasized that this is Before we ask what re- man, Bobby (Joyce) Freeman; Blairsville, Linea App of Mama- Hawks, Sally and Irvin Jones. grandchildren, Trey (Stephanie) roneck, NY; one niece, Samanof the Jewish people. no accident. Rosh Hashanah ligion someone belongs to, we Moore, Dalton Hicks, Sarah A Celebration of Life ser- tha; many other relatives and vice will be held on Saturday Which makes one holi- marks not the birthday of the remember that every person Bradley; great-grandchildren, friends also survive. day remarkably surprising. Jewish people but the birth- belongs to G-d. September 12, 2026 at 11 AM Cameron Lively, Brenlee Moore, A memorial service will be at the Fellowship of the Hills Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish day of the world. Before Jews Before we belong to a Addison Moore; special sister in held at a later date with Military Church with Pastor Scott Boisier New Year, does not commem- gather to pray for themselves, nation, we belong to humanity. law, Mary Allison; many extend- Honors and will be announced and Pastor Nick Sommer officiorate the birth of the Jewish they pray that every human Before we carry a flag, ed family and friends. later. In lieu of flowers if you ating and will be announced. In nation. being will come to recognize we bear the image of G-d. Visitation: Saturday, Sep- wish, the family requests that lieu of flowers if you wish, the It celebrates the creation the One who created us all That is why the Jewish tember 5, 2026 from 3 - 5 PM at donations may be made to Colon family requests that donations of the first human beings— and that the entire world will year begins with Adam rather Banister-Cooper Funeral Home. Cancer Research in Mr. White- may be made to Smile Train or Adam and Eve. That raises a reflect His goodness and jus- than Abraham. In lieu of flowers please house’s memory. St. Jude Children’s Hospital or question. If this is the begin- tice. That may surprise many Every year, before Juda- make donations to help the fami- Mountain View Funeral Doctors Without Boarders or to ning of the Jewish year, why people. ism tells its own story again, it ly with offsetting the cost of Mrs. Home of Blairsville is in charge Wounded Warrior Project in Shirdoesn’t it begin with Abraham, Judaism has never be- begins by reminding the world Norma’s funeral. of the arrangements. You may ley’s memory. Dress in colorful Banister-Cooper is in sign the family guest book and colors and wear sneakers or boats the first Jew? Why not with lieved that everyone should that the story started with all send condolences online at www. if you have them. Moses, the Exodus, or the giv- become Jewish. of us. charge of arrangements for Mrs. Norma Flanagan. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Mountain View Funeral ing of the Torah? From the days of Abra- I wish you a good week, Home of Blairsville is in charge Why begin before there ham onward, Israel was giv- happy New Year and Shabbat were any Jews at all? Because en a unique covenant and a Shalom, Rabbi Yonatan Ham- Celebrate Coosa Methodist Church of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and before G-d reminds the Jew- unique calling. But that calling bourger; y@TasteofTorah.org. N(Sep9,Z12)CA 192nd Homecoming on September 20 send condolences online at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. ish people who they are, He was never meant to replace hu- On Sunday September ful time of worship and special reminds the world what every manity—it was meant to serve human being is. it. The Creator who entered Bethlehem Baptist 20, 2026, Coosa Method- music. All are invited to stay ist Church will celebrate 192 for a traditional “Dinner on the Movie night “Who do you say Jesus is?” Bethlehem Baptist years of serving the Lord. In 1834, a few of the Grounds” meal. Come home to Coosa! It’s a good question to Church Movie night ages 10+ original settlers to Union Join us and be apart of this think about. We say with Peter The Rev. on Friday, September 18th. County started meeting in the joyous Homecoming Celebrathat Jesus is the Messiah. But Liz Please come join us and bring Mulky Gap area to praise the tion as we proclaim the salva- Schellingerhoudt a friend to this free event. Lord. Now, 192 years later we tion of Jesus Christ throughout how does this confession influence our day-to-day lives and Rector Football finger food will be will “Honor the Past and Em- the beautiful North Georgia the lives of the people around St. Clare’s served at 6 PM; Movie starts brace the Future”. Mountains. Worship services Episcopal Church at 7 PM. Showing “Facing At the 10:30 service are held weekly at 8:30 and us? Let me tell you who Jesus Blairsville is for me in ways that I hope The Giants”. Popcorn will be there will be a guest pastor. 10:30 AM at 767 Mulky Gap make a difference in how I live of a different world. Jesus in- served during the movie. Call The service will be a wonder- Road in Blairsville, GA. my life. spires me to emulate what he 828-371-3340 N(Sep9,Z22)CA Jesus came to live teaches us: where Jesus sees For more information or if you need a ride! Address: Free Women’s Luncheon and guest PHILLIP WAYLAN BRUCE with us, to show us just how disease, he heals it; when he much we are valued by God. sees hungry people, he feeds 2043 St ate Hwy. 325, Blairs- speaker St. Luke’s September 26th Phillip Waylan Bruce, age Through Jesus, God entered them; when he sees people ville, GA 30512. N(Sep9,Z23)CA 58, of Ladson, South Carolina, Women throughout the the world with all of its prob- possessed by demons, he region are invited to attend a passed away on Monday, August lems and heartaches and lived drives out the demons; when Bunker Hill free luncheon and Joyful Cel- 24, 2026. Phillip was born June among us – a true sacrifice. he sees injustice, he confronts 2, 1968, in Copperhill, TN to Jesus took all of that human it. Ultimately, Jesus shows us Baptist Services ebration at St. Luke’s Church Johnnie Wayne Bruce and Doro- Bunker Hill Baptist as Christian author and speak- thy Jean Bruce. experience into the Trinity, through his death and resur- er, Casey Hawley leads us Phillip was preceded which carries all of our sor- rection that God will never Church would like to invite everyone to come out and be through the discovery of the in death by his father, Johnnie rows, joys and imperfection. meet violence with more vio- joy and love that resides in Wayne Bruce. Jesus shows us that God cares lence, but that love always, al- with us for all of our servic- He is survived by his es. Sunday school at 10 AM; each of us on September 26 at about what we go through and ways wins. 10 AM. Hawley will encour- mother, Dorothy Jean Bruce; and has compassion for us as well In a nutshell, that’s who Sunday Worship Service at 11 cousin, Mike Bruce; and numer- AM; Wednesday Night Bible age our faith as she shares I ous other cousins and relatives. as love. Compassion’s root Jesus is for me. It’s not a full John 1 &2 as John, the dismeans to “suffer with.” God theology, but the things that Study at 7 PM. Funeral Service were held Every 4th Sunday of ciple, gives us an instruction on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at suffers with us. stand out the most for me and manual on how to live out the each month we have a evening 2 PM at Cochran-McDaniel Fu- Jesus reveals the heart the things that I hope inform teachings of Jesus in our ev- neral Home Blue Ridge Chapel of God to us, a heart that is big my life on a day-to-day basis. service with a guest preacher and special singers at 6 PM. eryday lives. with Rev. Tim Garrett officiating. enough to take in the life of the Who is Jesus for you, and how As an author, she has Casey Hawley The following gentlemen whole world. Jesus proves that does that belief guide your God loves you and so do we. served as pallbearers: Russell Pastor, Travis Morgan been a contributor to Focus by the Women of St. Luke’s, we are loved, and even when life? N(Sep9,Z1)CA on the Family, Chicken Soup is free but reservations are re- Burnett, Johnny Burnett, Casey we mess up, renewal of life is This week, sit with a Bruce, D. J. Bruce, Leslie Ow- for the Soul, the Billy Graham quired. Call the church office at ens, and Bobby Norris. possible. Peter will betray Jesus though he has made a bold nice cup of tea or coffee, and reflect your hope for how Je- YES, there Evangelistic Association and 706 632-8245 and leave your Interment followed at Jill Briscoe’s Just Between Us name, contact number and the proclamation that Jesus is the sus shows up in your life. How will be PECANS! magazine. She has published names of friends joining you New Union Baptist Church Cem- etery in Blairsville, GA. Messiah. Grace and forgive- do you want your life to re- Check your pantry and four Christian books which are for this event. Deadline for The family received ness abound in his actions, and flect the extraordinary way in freezer and see how many available on Amazon and will reservations is September 14. friends at Cochran-McDaniel he shows there is a possibility which God loves you?N(Sep9,Z20)CA bags of 2026 pecans you be available at the luncheon. The church is located at 7 Ew- Funeral Home in Blue Ridge on need to order. Coosa Method- ing Street in Blue Ridge. Sunday, September 6, 2026, from Providence Mountain ist Church will have 5 kinds The luncheon, hosted N(Sep9,Z17)CA 12 PM - 2 PM. Methodist Presbyterian Food of pecans for you to select Harmony Grove Free Bible studies Cochran-McDaniel Funer- al Home is honored to serve the from: Halves, Pieces, Praline, Church Services Pantry is open Amaretto Chocolate and back Baptist Children’s The Eastside Church of family of Phillip Waylan Bruce; you may send condolences to the Christ, Morganton, GA is of- Providence Methodist Church, 3075 Pat Colwell The Ecumenical Food Pantry at Mountain Presby- again...White Chocolate! They are scheduled to arrive the first Clothing Ministry fering free Bible studies. You family and sign the guest register at www.cochranmcdaniel.com. Road, Blairsville, GA 30512; terian Church is open every week of November if Mother The Children’s Clothing may request either mail corinvites you to attend our Sun- Thursday from 9:30 AM to 1 Nature cooperates. Ministry at Harmony Grove respondence or one-on-one. Shady Grove PM. We are once again open- All proceeds benefit the Baptist Church (1008 Town Please call 706-374-3262 for day Church Service from 11 to 12 and Sunday School from 10 ing our doors to the pantry missions and ministries of Co- Creek School Road, Blairs- more information. N(Sep9,Z1)CA UMC Fundraiser to 11. for people to come inside to osa Methodist Church. To or- ville) is open to the commu- Shady Grove United We are a small country fill their own boxes. We are der by phone call: Elaine Moss nity by appointment only. Learn more Methodist Church is taking located right next door to the orders for their Rada Cutlery church with a heritage of over 191 years. Welcome one and Catholic Church in Blairsville. at 706-897-8008 or Coosa Methodist office at 706-745- If there is a need for children or teen clothes, please about the Bible fundraiser and will continue all! N(Sep9,Z2)CA Located at 3831 Hwy. 515 E. 8893. N(Sep9,Z22)CA Would you like to learn throughout the year. NT(Sep9,Z1)CA contact the church office at more about the Bible? Click on Contact JoAnn Hamby 706-835-1449 and leave a Celebrate Recovery - Fairview Baptist message. One of our volun- website and register for Free Bible Study! blairsvillebible. at 706-781-4828 for more in- formation; please leave a mes- A Christ-Centered Recovery Program Church Services teers will contact you as soon worldbibleschool. org. sage. NT(Sep9,Z2)CA as possible. N(Sep9,Z1)CA NT(Sep9,Z1)CA Celebrate Recovery is a need to stop denying the pain, Christ-centered recovery pro- stop playing God, start admit- You are invited to join The Church of Thursday Night gram that meets every Thurs- ting our powerlessness, and start us at Fairview Baptist Church for a wonderful time of wor- Lower Bell TV Church Service day evening, 52 weeks a year. admitting that our lives have be- ship and fellowship. Sunday Creek Baptist Jesus Christ of Everyone is invited to It is a safe place for individu- come unmanageable. We need a school -10 AM; Worship ser- Latter-day Saints ning to WGHC tune in every Thursday eveals to begin their journey of power greater than ourselves to restore us and that Higher Pow- vice - 11 AM; Evening service Homecoming The Church of Jesus TV at 7 PM; breaking free from all life's - 6 PM. Address is 10 Fairview Homecoming at Lower also on Facebook; wotgtv. hurts, habits, and hang-ups. er is Jesus Christ! Church Road. Christ of Latter-day Saints com/ ROKU channel to hear Meetings are held every Bell Creek Baptist Church on meets weekly on Sundays at "I know that nothing Come and experience Evangelist Evelyn Adams cargood lives in me, that is, in my Thursday evening in Build- September 13. Sunday School 10 AM for Worship, 11 AM for rying the Gospel around the the joy encouragement and is at 10 AM; Service is at 11 sinful nature. For I have the ing G, 7-9 PM, at First Bap- presence of the Lord with us. Sunday School, and 7 PM on world. Prayer requests call desire to do what is good, but tist Church-Blairsville. If you AM. Lunch in the Fellowship Tuesdays for scripture study. 706-671-7988. If Jesus speaks We look forward to welcom- Hall following the service. I cannot carry it out" (Romans have any questions, email ing you. Please join us at 34 Rogers to your heart send any love of- 7:18). The power to change only crfbcb@windstream.net or Everyone is invited. Pastor is Street in Blairsville. All are fering to P.O. Box 394, Fair- Rev. Tommy Jones comes from God's grace. We call 706-781-6288. NT(Sep9,Z1)CA N(Sep9,Z2)CA Jason Cantrell. T(Sept9,A2)JT welcome to attend! NT(Sep9,Z2)CA mont, GA 30139. N(Sep9,Z1)CA
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5B WILLIAM A. BURES LARRY EDWARD MARY O’ROURKE William A. Bures, affec- TOMLINSON, SR. GEORGE tionally known to many as “Cap- Larry Edward Tomlinson, Mary O’Rourke George, tain Bill” and to those closest to Sr., age 80, of Blairsville, GA, 75, went home to be with the Lord him as “Gramps,” passed away went to be with his Heavenly on the morning of September 3rd on September 4, 2026, at the age Father on Thursday, August 27, after a long battle with cancer. of 85. Born on May 4, 1941, in 2026. She was born April 13,1951 in Cicero, Indiana, Bill grew up Born January 28, 1946, Brentwood, NY, to James and MARION E. MARY ANN KUSUK DOROTHY J. BURKHART with a strong sense of service and in Savannah, GA, to John Elmo Charlotte O’Rourke. Mary came RICHARDS, JR. community. Early in his career, Tomlinson, Sr. and Mary Eliza- to love Blairsville after moving Mrs. Mary Ann Kusuk, Mrs. Dorothy J. Burkhart he served as a dedicated fire- beth Tomlinson, and raised in from Snellville, GA in 2006. She Mr. Marion E. Richards, age 95, of Dean Gap Acres, age 90 of Overlook Court Blairs- fighter for the city of Noblesville, Brunswick, Larry became an Ea- was a devout and faithful Chris- Jr. “Bud”, age 87, of Dahlone- Blairsville, passed away peace- ville GA formerly of Hiawassee Indiana, for seven years. Driven gle Scout as a young man, later tian. She was a member of house ga, GA, formerly of Blairsville, fully at Stonehenge following passed away peacefully on Sat- by a spirit of adventure and a serving as a Scout leader him- of Prayer Church, in Blairsville, passed away peacefully sur- an extended illness. Mrs. Kusuk urday September 5, 2026 in the love for the outdoors, Bill relo- self. He graduated from Glynn GA since 2006. rounded by his loving family on was born on October 13, 1930 Union General Hospital following cated his family to South Florida Academy in 1964, and not long Mary was a RN in the Wednesday, September 2, 2026 in Bronx, NY, the daughter of an extended illness. Mrs. Burkhart in 1973. after, he was called to serve his Neurology ICU at Vanderbilt in the Northeast Georgia Medical the late Frank Cucci and the late was born on October 30, 1935 in In Florida, he found his country. Over the next twenty University Hospital in the 80’s, Center following an extended ill- Mildred Vera Cucci. Mary was a Bridge Port, CT., the daughter of true calling on the water. Af- years, Larry served in the U.S. and retired in 1988; but never ness. Mr. Richards was born on loving and caring mother, sister, the late Anthony Felix Didio and ter working in various fields, Army, including time in Korea stopped using her skills to volun- March 1, 1939 in Gainesville, grandmother and great grand- the late Simone Adrienne Cro- he stepped aboard local vessels and two tours in Germany, with teer whenever needed, most re- GA, the son of the late Marion mother. She loved crocheting, tean Didio. Dorothy was a loving as a First Mate before earning service in both the Signal Corps cently at Church summer camps Ernest Richards Sr. and the late going on cruisers, playing bingo mother, sister and aunt. She had a his captain’s license. Bill spent and the Army Security Agency. and Blairsville’s Healing Hands Annie Lou Grant Richards. Bud and telling life stories. She was very close relationship with her decades navigating coastal and He was also a charter member of Community clinic. As a devoted was a Civil Engineer by trade funny and enjoyed making peo- Lord Jesus Christ. She was pre- open waters as a beloved boat the Military Intelligence Corps, servant and follower of her Lord and served as County Surveyor ple laugh. She worked a variety ceded in death by her parents and captain until his well-earned re- rising to Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jesus Christ over the years, she for Union County for many of jobs in her lifetime including also a brother, Richard Didio and tirement in 2005. Whether he was before retiring in 1989. He car- did missionary work in South GA years. He was a loving and car- being a switchboard operator in a sister, Patricia Lasky. Dorothy at the helm of a boat or sitting at ried that same steady discipline women’s prisons, went to Prague ing father, brother and grandfa- the forty’s in New York and end- was a member of First Freewill the family dinner table, Captain into a second career as a defense and the Czech Republic with ther. Bud loved all animals, but ing as a cashier in a prominent Baptist Church. Bill was celebrated for his steady contractor, retiring from General the Jesus films promotions, she especially his dog, Johnny, who grocery store in Florida. She was Surviving Mrs. Burkhart presence, warm humor, and end- Dynamics Information Technolo- promoted military family supbrought him much joy and com- preceded in death by her hus- are two sons, Ray Riley of OR., less supply of good stories. He gies in 2010. After retirement, port activities, and local, national panionship. Bud loved talking to band, John Kusuk Sr. in 2005; and Scott Riley of CA., two broth- was a veteran of the Army Na- that discipline became devotion. women’s ministries through people and never met a stranger. a daughter, Denise Kusuk; and ers and one sister in law, Anthony tional Guard. Bill attended Cal- At First Baptist Church, Blairs- Stonecroft Ministries. She sang He was preceded in death by his a brother, Michael Cucci. Mrs. Didio of CT., Anthony and Lorna vary Chapel in Deerfield Beach, ville, he took part in Sunday in the House of Prayer choir wife, Wally Sue Dressing Rich- Kusuk was of the Catholic faith. Martone of Ct., one sister, Sharon FL and also Harmony Grove school and Bible study, served on and taught Sunday School there ards; and a brother, Jimmy Rich- Surviving Mrs. Kusuk are Fratterola of CT., several nieces, Baptist Church in Blairsville. the Beacon Mission Team, and for years. Uncounted lives were ards. Bud was of the Baptist faith. two sons and daughters-in-law, nephews, cousins, many other Bill was preceded in death volunteered with the Friends of changed. Surviving Mr. Richards Steven and Gayle Kusuk and her relatives and friends also survive. by the love of his life and wife Copper Basin Crisis Center. Mary was preceded in are one daughter and son-in- daughter Lori Wood of Blairs- A memorial service will be of 61 years, Linda Bures, who In 1969, Larry married death by both parents, and her law, Leslee and Whitney Fuchs ville, John and Elizabeth Kusuk held at a later date at First Free- passed away in 2021. his beloved Mary Gail Price, brother Richard. of Gainesville; one sister, Patsy of Freeport, FL; one brother, An- will Baptist Church with Rev. He leaves behind a legacy and for the next forty-four years She is survived by her hus- Ayers of Gainesville; one broth- thony Cucci of New York; three Chris Rumfelt officiating and will of strength, devotion, and cher- they built a life grounded in band of 54 years Nick; two brother, Jack Richards of Mt. Rainey, grandchildren, Joseph Kusuk, be announced. In lieu of flowers if ished memories. He is survived faith. They welcomed their son, ers, James and Thomas; and her MD; two grandchildren, Emma Christopher Kusuk and Lauren you wish, the family requests that by his three children: Brett (Rob- Larry Jr., in December 1981, and 4 sons: Nick, Casey, Christopher, and Scott Boyer of Eugene, OR; Kusuk; three great grandchil- donations may be made to First in) Bures, Marla Bures, and Scott on March 24, 2014, Larry said and Jonathan; 6 grandchildren, Lowell and Jessie Fuchs of At- dren, Julianna, Angelina and Kai Freewill Baptist Church in Doro- Bures; one brother and sister-in- goodbye to his Gail when she and numerous nieces, nephews lanta; his beloved dog, Johnny; Kusuk; several nieces and neph- thy’s memory. law, Steve and Patricia Bures of was called home to the Lord. In and cousins whom she all loved several nieces, nephews, many ews along with additional family Mountain View Funeral Venice, FL. He was the proud the years that followed, Larry so dearly. other relatives and friends also and friends. Home of Blairsville is in charge grandfather to Bryan (Sina) and found purpose in walking along- Mary’s visitation will be survive. Funeral services were of the arrangements. You may Kasey (Michael), step-grandfa- side others through grief, serving at House of Prayer Church in A graveside service was held on Tuesday, September 8, sign the family guest book and ther to Tyler and Courtney, and a as a facilitator for the church’s Blairsville on Thursday, Sepheld on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 11 AM at the Moun- send condolences online at www. loving great-grandfather to three GriefShare program. It was there tember 10th at 11 AM, with the 2026 at 2 PM at the Union tain View Chapel with Deacon mountainviewfuneralhome.com. great-grandchildren. His memory that he met Cynthia Ellen Sills memorial service to follow at 12 Memory Gardens Cemetery. He Richard Dodd officiating. The will also be cherished by a large Reynolds of Blairsville, and on PM. will rest with his beloved wife, following gentlemen served as extended family and a wide circle December 9, 2019, the two were In lieu of flowers, dona- Sue. Bud’s family and friends pallbearers: Steven Kusuk, John of lifelong friends. married. The two shared nearly tions may be made in Mary’s will officiate the service. In lieu Kusuk and other family mem- A memorial service cele- seven joyful years together, and name to American Cancer Sociof flowers if you wish, the fam- bers. Interment followed in the brating Captain Bill’s life will be her steady care and love were a ety: American Cancer Society, ily requests that donations may Meadow View Cemetery where held at a later date, where family gift he cherished every day. P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD. be made to the Lumpkin County she will rest with her beloved and friends will gather to share He is survived by his lov- Cochran-McDaniel Fu- Humane Society or to a favorite husband, John. The family met stories and bid him a final, fond ing wife, Cyndi; his son, Larry neral Home is honored to serve humane society of your choice in with friends at the funeral home farewell as he sets sail on his ulti- Tomlinson, Jr.; and his sister-in- the family of Mary O’Rourke Bud’s memory. The family met on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026 from mate journey. law, Pat Tomlinson, of Hiawas- George; you may send condowith friends following the ser- 10-11 AM. Mountain View Funeral see, GA. He is also survived by lences to the family and sign vices at the cemetery. Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge nieces, nephews, and extended the guest register at www.co- Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may family. chranmcdaniel.com. Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and Funeral services were held of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and sign the family guest book and send condolences online at send condolences online at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. on Friday, September 4,2026, at 2 PM at First Baptist Church Loving Church send condolences online at www. www.mountainviewfuneralmountainviewfuneralhome.com. home.com. PHILLIP WARNER of Blairsville with Pastor Ricky Blessed is our won- Powell officiating. derful church, Day of Grace BAXTER, JR. The family received Mr. Phillip Warner Baxter, friends on Friday, September Baptist Church, 269 Saw In Memory of Jr., age 65, of Hayesville, NC, formerly of Blairsville, passed 4,2026, from 1 - 2 PM at First Baptist Church of Blairsville. Mill Road. Offering a great message every Sunday; Sun- away on Wednesday, September Larry will be interred at day School starts at 10 AM; Dale Shaffer Diane Shaffer 2, 2026 at CHI Memorial Hospi- Arlington National Cemetery, Church Service at 11 AM. September 10, 2021 August 26, 2026 tal in Chattanooga, TN., follow- with honors rendered by the 3rd Please join us for God’s ing an extended illness. Phillip Infantry Regiment (Old Guard). love that will stay in your was the son of Eiko Yonazawa Flowers are welcome, and memorial donations may also be heart all week. Baxter and Phillip Baxter Sr. Phillip is survived by his made to The National Kidney children, Krissy Carmen, Melo- Foundation or the American Dia- betes Association. New Grief die Baxter and Joshua Shook; his close friends, Hope and Jade Cochran-McDaniel neral Home is honored to serve Fu- Support Group Stiles of Hayesville, NC; his sib- lings, Susan Baxter, Gary and MARY MODEAN RICE the family of Larry Edward Angling in Grief Sup- Rebecca Baxter, Bill Baxter, Ms. Mary Modean Rice Tomlinson, Sr.; you may send port is starting a new grief Tammy and Mike Vaughn and condolences to the family and group in the Blue Ridge area (Moe), age 90, of Emory Shields sign the guest register at www. Michael “Bear” and Lisa Baxter, Road, Murphy, passed away cochranmcdaniel.com. for adults who have experi- all of Blairsville; his nieces, Jes- peacefully surrounded by her enced loss. sie Cathey, Katie Elliott, Haley loving family on Friday, Sep- The group uses fly fish- Baxter and Maci Walls. tember 4, 2026 at her home fol- Welcoming Light ing and fly tying as tools for Phillip loved animals, es- lowing an extended illness. Mrs. connection, reflection, and pecially cats and worked most Rice was born on September 7, A Non-Denominational of his life in food service. A pri- 1935, the daughter of the late Church in Blairsville. Please healing. No fishing experi- vate family service will be held William Everett Rice and the late join us Sundays for Worship ence is necessary. All gear is at a later date. In lieu of flowers Eunice Christabell Kisselburg at 9 AM at G & G Bakery provided. if you wish, the family requests Rice. Mary was a loving and car- Meetings will be held that donations may be made to ing mother, sister, grandmother and Cafe and Wednesdays the third Thursday of each “When we all see Jesus, what a day the First Baptist Church Food and aunt. She loved sitting on her at 6 PM for Bible Study and month at First Baptist Church of rejoicing that will be!” Bank in Phillip’s memory. porch, reading the Bible and be- potluck dinner also at G & G ing outdoors. She loved spending Blue Ridge (907 E Main Mountain View Funeral Bakery and Cafe. Street, Blue Ridge, GA). Free Family - Pat, Sarah, Uriah and Kiley Home of Blairsville is in charge time with her family and friends. Blairsville Most of all she loved her church Our website is www. to attend. Open to the public. of the arrangements. You may Church Family - New Life Assembly of God sign the family guest book and and loved the Lord. She was pre- WelcomingLight.org where To learn more or sign Blairsville send condolences online at www. ceded in death by her parents and you can learn about our Mis- up, visit [www.anglingin- mountainviewfuneralhome.com. also two brothers, Clyde and Le- sion, Vision and Beliefs. grief.org]. roy Rice. Ms. Rice was a mem- ber of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Surviving Ms. Rice are MOUNTAIN VIEW FUNERAL one son and daughter-in-law, Rickey and Glenda Rice of Min- HOME & CREMATORY eral Bluff; one granddaughter, Mary Rice of Murphy; one sis- Blairsville 706-745-2156 / Hiawassee 706-896-6000 DISTINCTIVE SERVICE AT MODERATE COST ter and brother-in-law, Pauline Murphy 828-837-9599 / Blue Ridge 706-632-5968 and Max Ware of Murphy; neice Mountain View Funeral Home & Crematory and husband, Tammy and James McCaysville 706-492-3321 was built to Honor our Lord, Jesus Christ Shope; great nieces and nephew, Hannah Johnson, Haylie Blalock, Celebrating Life & Treasuring Every Memory Before building Mountain View Funeral Home, we made a Hunter Shope and families. Other commitment to God, our family, friends and community nieces, nephews, relatives and Larry E. Tomlinson Phillip Waylan Bruce friends also survive. to lower funeral prices and be the most reasonable funeral Funeral services will be 08/27/2026 08/24/2026 home in the area, while providing quality merchandise and held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 2 PM at Mt. Pleasant Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel distinctive service. We promise to keep this commitment, Baptist Church with Rev. Steve Larry Parker Green Doris Darlene Hitt Ware, Rev. Rickey Lance and and our prices will be the lowest in the tri-state area, Rev. Shannon Helton officiat- 08/29/2026 08/30/2026 no matter what the cost... Guaranteed. Please ing. Special music will be pre- sented by the Ware family and Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel feel free to call or come by and compare prices and quality. Fran Laperriere. The following Charles and Denise gentlemen will serve as pallbear- Jackie S. Colwell George Talton Greene ers: Hunter Shope, Jake Johnson, No Additional Charge for use of our chapel for funeral services Zack Blalock, Billy Joe Rice, 08/30/2026 09/01/2026 No Charge for register book • No Charge for acknowledgement cards Mike Reece and Riley Blalock. Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel No Additional Charge for more than one night visitations Interment will follow in the No Charge for local hospital or home removals. Shady Grove Church Cemetery. Mary George Willard Payne The family will meet with friends DigniÀed Service to All, Regardless of Financial Situations. at the funeral home on Tuesday 09/03/2026 09/03/2026 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY CHARLES & DENISE LONG evening from 6-9 PM. Mountain View Funeral Blairsville Chapel Murphy Chapel OVER 57 YEARS EXPERIENCE 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 6B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 UCSO Scam Class helps people protect themselves By Shawn Jarrard More than 50 people at- savings, age-related cognitive years ago, he perceived the North Georgia News tended the recent Scam Class, decline, and less familiarity need to increase awareness, so editor@nganews.com nearly all among the group of with technology, which com- he created the classes. Having concluded its citizens most frequently target- bine to make them significantly Since most scammers inaugural Citizens Academy ed by scammers – seniors. In more vulnerable to financial are overseas and hard to hold last week, the Union County fact, several class attendees ad- exploitation. accountable due to being out- Sheriff’s Office is continuing mitted to having been victims That’s why Sheriff side Union County’s jurisdicto live up to its commitment to of scams themselves, which is Shawn Dyer considers it a duty tion, Dyer figured a great way educating the public. Toward understandable given the way to host scam classes for the to help people would be to the same end, UCSO hosted criminal minds work. public. Dyer started the session arm them with information to another Scam & Fraud Aware- Seniors are attractive by thanking attendees, say- avoid being scammed in the ness Class, too, at the Commu- to scammers because of their ing he wished scam education first place, and the effort hit the nity Center on Aug. 26. greater likelihood of possessing wasn’t necessary. But a couple ground running. UCSO Sgt. Bob Cala- mari serves as the lead finan- Dana Kelly cial crimes investigator for the Sheriff’s Office, and he once Nelson Shuler again emceed the class and 706-835-7906 706-745-3500 828-361-2074 gave an extensive presentation www.CBHighCountry.com of his own reviewing various 211 Cleveland Street, Suite A, Blairsville, GA 30512 types of scams and how best to avoid them. UCSO Sgt. Bob Calamari holding up one of the main points But first, he introduced of weakness for scams: cellphones. Photo by Shawn Jarrard Debora Quigley, a Union growing trend. mers rely on emotion – fear, County resident who cofound- He also made available urgency, greed – to make you ed and serves on the board for the Georgia Consumer Protec- act before you think.” the Union County Sheriff’s tion Guide for Older Adults, She summed up her Foundation, a nonprofit estab- put out by the Georgia Attor- presentation by reiterating the lished last year to support the ney General’s Office, which need for “strong password hy- Sheriff’s Office through chari- he described as the single best giene;” logging out of suspi- table contributions and volun- resource on current scams and cious computer sessions; using teering. how to avoid them. built-in computer protections; Quigley asked attend- Multiple scams were dis- and keeping all devices and in- Fully furnished Lake Nottely WATERFRONT home with upgrades, NEW ROOF, ees to consider supporting cussed, including those involv- ternet browsers up to date for NEW stainless appliances, stylish Ànishes, DOCK and gentle lake access for easy living. $950,000 the Sheriff’s Office through a ing imposters like fake grand- the latest protections. special program set up under parents, IRS representatives, Lastly, United Com- GORGEOUS Brand New the Sheriff’s Foundation, The Social Security employees, munity introduced its fraud 2BR/2BA Custom Built home LESS Crime Tax Credit, which law enforcement officers, and prevention partners for a pre- offers a thoughtfully designed, goes toward purchasing equip- fraudulent charities. sentation on “outsmarting single-level Áoor plan. Cathe- ment like body cameras and Calamari also touched scammers”: Relationship Man- dral ceilings enhance the open public education materials. on Medicare scams, online ager Jimmy Nichols, Fraud living area, gas-log Àreplace “Endorsed by Union romance scams, Publishers’ Program & Governance Man- creates a warm and inviting County Sheriff Shawn Dyer, Clearing House scams, funeral ager Shelia Partin; Director focal point. The kitchen features the foundation allows taxpay- scams, missed jury duty scams, of Fraud Tiffany Potter; and quartz countertops, SS ers to redirect a portion of their check fraud, etc., and he said Branch Manager John Weaver. appliances, abundant cabinetry, state income taxes to directly that no legitimate enterprise The partners emphasized and a spacious island. Situated benefit the Sheriff’s Depart- will ever request gift cards or the importance of knowing the on a level lot with usable ment,” according to the foun- cryptocurrency as a form of warning signs and how to “spot outdoor space! MLS 435581 dation. “Contributions made payment. fraud before it becomes a finan- through the program are eligi- In terms of “how to pro- cial loss,” because while scams ble for a dollar-for-dollar state tect yourself,” Calamari high- are constantly changing, the tax credit, making it a finan- lighted good rules of thumb, tactics largely stay the same. cially strategic option for many like verifying information be- They presented three taxpayers.” fore acting, avoiding sharing questions that stop most scams: For more information, personal information, securing Why is this person creating ur- visit https://unioncountysher- mobile devices and computers, gency? How can I independent- iffsfoundation.org/. and being skeptical of deals ly verify this? Would I do this if Next, Calamari wel- that are too good to be true. I had 24 hours to think about it? comed Georgia Adult Protec- People were advised to These questions came tive Services Supervisor Emily hang up on suspicious callers or with recommendations to slow Shook, Investigator Sonya Sey- delete suspicious emails/texts, down, verify independently, mour and Investigator Brandy and if they do suspect fraud or never send money under pres- Warren. simply have a question, to not sure, talk to a trusted third-par- Shook said the stage hesitate in calling the Sheriff’s ty, and if it sounds too good to agency is tasked with inves- Office at 706-439-6066 – just be true, it probably is. tigating reports of abuse, ne- ask for Sgt. Calamari or Inves- “Trust your banker,” glect or exploitation that occur tigator Josh Owenby. guests were advised. “Your among individuals who are Cassie McVay with Tri- banker is your first line of de- over age 65, or adults over 18 State Tech Support is a regular fense against fraud. Scammers with diagnosed disabilities. presenter at Calamari’s classes, want to isolate you. Bankers She noted that exploitation had and she gave an overview of want to protect you ... When become the No. 1 issue investi- how to stay safe online. it doubt, check it out. A five- gated across the state. She stressed that pass- minute conversation with your Attendees were encour- words are a “first line of de- banker could save thousands of aged to reach out to APS with fense,” recommending that dollars and prevent months of questions or concerns at 866- people use a password manager stress.” 552-4464. People may also to keep track of them; create Much more informa- make reports online by visiting long, unique passwords for tion was covered in the Scam aging.ga.gov and clicking on individual accounts; turn on Class, so be sure to attend the “Report Elder Abuse.” two-factor authentication; and next one for a fuller experience. Sgt. Calamari then “never” share passwords with Sgt. Calamari will educate the launched his presentation, be- anyone. public again on Wednesday, ginning with some local and McVay also presented Oct. 14, at 10 a.m. inside the national statistics showing that various “red flags” to recog- Union County Public Library fraud against the elderly is a nize, driving home that “scam- on Hunt-Martin Street. OFFICIAL NOTICE Town Hall Meeting (L-R) Georgia Adult Protective Services Investigator Sonya Seymour, Investigator Brandy Warren and Supervisor Emily Shook in the most recent Scam Class hosted by the Sheriff’s Office. Photo by Shawn Jarrard Union County Government will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting Learn about the connection between God and Science related to SPLOST collections and spending. The date and location of at Young Harris College Planetarium September 11th the meeting is below, and all citizens are invited to attend. Curious about the con- nection between God and sci- ence? Swing by Young Harris Thursday, September 10, 2026 College’s O. Wayne Rollins 6:00pm Planetarium Sept. 11 for God, Science and Our Search for Union County Fine Arts Center Meaning. 926 Panther Overlook God, Science & Our Search for Meaning - Friday, Blairsville, GA 30512 Sept. 11 @ 8 p.m. Written and narrated by international bestselling au- Meetings are open to the public,and all interested parties are encouraged to attend. Individuals with thor Dan Brown and produced disabilities who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in by the Museum of Science, these meetings, or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meetings, or the facilities are Boston, this show presents a required to contact the County Clerk at 706-439-6000 promptly to allow Union County to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. one-of-a-kind exploration of evenings. Tickets for shows exception of Cosmic Concerts, humankind’s oldest questions, can be purchased at the door include a live-narrated “season offers exciting new possibili- with cash or check. Tickets stargazing” segment in addi- ties and unveils the startling can also be purchased online tion to the featured full-dome interplay between science and via Eventbrite by visiting the program. religion as they both strive to following link: https://www. Planetarium Admission: illuminate our deepest myster- yhc.edu/community/planetar- $5 Adults per show; $3 Chil- ies. ium/ dren per show; Free for Chil- And, before leaving, Purchasing tickets on- dren under 4 years of age; Free complete a brief survey with line in advance is recommend- with YHC ID, Any remaining a chance to win an astronomi- ed, since planetarium shows tickets will be available for cal prize and contribute to often sell out. Observatory purchase at the door 30 min- Planetarium Director Lauren open houses do not require utes prior to showtime. Albin’s research study on joy, tickets. View Online: http:// wonder, and awe in astronomy. For planetarium shows, yhc.meritpages.com/news/ O. Wayne Rollins Plan- guests are encouraged to arrive Learn-about-the-connection- etarium features shows for the early for the best seats. Public between-God-and-science-at- general public on select Friday planetarium shows, with the YHC-planetarium/61394
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7B Heritage Fest showcases beloved mountain traditions By Brittany Holbrooks Gourmet Grill, which offered about his own family’s heritage tory and people dating back to North Georgia News Italian sausages and a variety and how it ties into the area. her own childhood working in Staff Writer of hot dogs. Behind the Mock On the porch of the Payne the fields to her experiences The Union County His- House, Ken Jones, portraying Cabin were Garry and Cindy helping found the first Head torical Society’s Annual Moun- the resourceful Appalachian Walter, sharing some common Start program in the area. tain Heritage Festival had a “Mountain Man,” handed out crafts and demonstrating loop- The North Georgia/ whole host of features to en- his homemade chili with all the ing, known to some as tatting Western North Carolina Fiber joy over Labor Day Weekend. fixings. or nalbinding. The practice Friends, otherwise known as 2026 marked an intentional In fact, the backyard originated from Europe and the Highlander Fiber Friends, return to the two-day festival’s hosted multiple stations to edu- continued as a popular pastime were also present. Ro Borr, focus on history and cultural cate visitors about what life in America. Sandy Sandmeyer and Mandi education – clearly a hit among was like back in the day. Jayne “This was traditionally Aumann were practicing difguests downtown. Jones, for example, taught kids done with a wooden toothbrush ferent methods of crafting with Musicians were moved what a clothes iron was and handle,” Cindy explained as fibers in various states. to the front lawn, where they showed them how to do house- she worked, adding that weav- Sandmeyer was trying performed out of the heat in hold chores with equipment on ing and other textile arts were an experimental method to a trailer set up before a tent display at the Mountain Life known by both women and make gradient yarn between where guests could sit and ei- Museum. men. “(In the Civil War), on lavender, magenta and white. ther check out merchandise Given the heat and the the Confederate side, they used While using brighter, more or just listen for a while. The opportunity to splash around in to give them wooden tooth- modern colors, Sandmeyer said lineup included local favor- the water, the most popular sta- brushes in their mess kit. Sew- that the skill was not, despite ites like John Cochran and the tion appeared to be the wash- ing needles, thread, things like popular misconception, a “dy- Cowhands, the Mars Hill Porch board, and Jones said one little that.” ing art,” and has in fact seen a Pickers, The Tunnel Rats, Davy girl was so enthusiastic that she Their goal, like the edu- resurgence with crocheting es- (L-R) Volunteers Sandy Sandmeyer and Ro Borr led his- Henderson and The New Byers wanted to wash all the clothes cators around them, was to pecially. torical demonstrations at the Heritage Festival Saturday and Creek Band. on display. Other children en- spark an interest not just in his- Aumann, utilizing a drop Sunday, showcasing a love of local culture and a passion for On the porch of the 1906 joyed making biscuits and do- tory but the simple pleasure of spindle to twist clean, raw wool carrying traditions of the past into the future. Grapelle Butt Mock House, the nuts with Play-Doh. creating art and crafts. Along into yarn, felt a connection with Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Historical Society and Byron Meanwhile, Joan Drake with the live demonstrations, those who came before her by to all of our heritage because tures at all points in history.” Herbert Reece Society offered managed the corn husk doll the Walters contributed toward honing her craft. they’re universal skills,” Au- “This brings us all the local history buffs opportuni- table, noting that “ladies of all that end by offering craft kits “I know that these crafts mann believes. “I’m not trying way back to campfires in front ties to find like-minded indi- ages” enjoyed sitting down and their own artwork of na- are important to Appalachian to be discriminatory, but these of caves. It’s just a sisterhood,” viduals interested in preserving and following a time-honored ture. history, but they’re important skills were important in all cul- agreed Borr. the history of Union County. tradition. Right next door, the Up in the Mock House And a multitude of ven- blacksmith’s hammer sounded Annex, Curtis Young returned dors highlighted everything off frequently. this year with his collection from gourmet foods to hand- Art Bailie was another of Native American artifacts, made goods, including wood new addition this year, dressing bringing with them his knowlcarvings, soaps, toys and a up as one of Appalachia’s first edge of the Cherokee culture multitude of other options for European settlers. He repre- and experience with local aranyone looking to treat them- sented the typical Ulster Scots- chaeology. selves or find the perfect gift. man, donning his cap, kilt and Kathleen Cook sewed a Food consisted of mostly sporran. Standing out front of quilt, happy to chat and share local vendors, including Rick’s the Payne Cabin, he talked a bit stories of Union County’s his- The historic Collins Cabin, donated by the family of F. C. Collins, was a popular Heritage Festival attraction over the weekend. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Need Blueprints? West Printing Company For all your large format printing needs! Guests of the Mountain Heritage Festival had a great time perusing all the sights, sounds and vendors available at the 2026 offering in Downtown Blairsville. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks 266 Cleveland Street Union County Public Library 2 blocks up from the Square on 129 September Art Exhibit by Dr. Wei 706-745-6343 The Union County Public Library is proud to westprinting@windstream.net host artist Qinghong Wei, PhD, and her ethereal watercolor paintings for their public Art Exhibit in September. Her vivid paintings will be on display all month long during the library’s regular business hours. Qinghong Wei, PhD, is an artist, teacher, and regenerative farmer living on a little mountain farm in Hayesville, North Carolina. She has found in watercolor a pathway to cultivating her inner light, and her paintings have brought moments of peace, tenderness, and heartwarming joy to people local and afar. Her solo exhibition, Light Within, invites viewers on a watercolor journey into luminosity, sacred aliveness, and the profound connections Bell Ringing Union between living beings. Full Service Printer If you’re interested in County Old Courthouse being a featured artist, the library is currently accepting applications for future displays. Artists of all techniques VFW Karaoke Business Cards • Business Forms • Notecards and mediums are encour- Karaoke on Wednesdays aged to apply by emailing a from 4 PM until 8 PM at the Invitations • Blue Prints • Rack Cards • Posters few photos of their work to VFW Post on Sunnyside Rd Stamps • Labels ucpl@mountainlibrary.com. in Hiawassee. Come join us for some fun! It is open to the $ CASH 4 $ public. Full Color printing at rock bottom prices! $ $ VFW Fish Fry $ $ GOLD $ $ The VFW is pleased to Jewelry September 12, 2026 $ $ $ $ In memory of have you come and have Fish Fry with us at our brand new Fast, Professional Service $ $ SILVER $ $ John J. Meeks Post on Sunny Side for $12 or $ Jewelry $ on the anniversary $15 all you can eat. The nights of the fish fry $ $ of his death $ $ Labosco’s at the Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ $ by Ginger and Terry Meeks is still the second (2nd) and the forth (4th) fridays of each 706-745-6343 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ 706-745-0097 $ $ Bell ringing information at 706-745-5493 month and remember no Tax & no Tip. We hope to see you westprinting@windstream.net CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! there.
Page 8B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 Wilderness Pickers in concert Friday Missing person Hammond PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT at the Old Courthouse on the Square located safe in Fannin County From the Union County Sheriff’s Office The Fannin County for approximately four days We have recently got- Under this guise, they would E m e rg e n c y M a n a g e m e n t and had just made his way ten questions about the Union then solicit money from the Agency shared on Monday, out. County Jail’s online inmate family acting like this money Aug. 31, that it was “pleased “The individuals trans- roster whereby people could would be used to release their to report that James Hammond ported Hammond to Chick- login and see recent arrests. loved one from jail. We had has been located and is safe.” fil-A in Blairsville, where they On December 24th, 2025, we several people scammed out Hammond had been met with Union General EMS. inactivated that website. of thousands of dollars be- reported missing on Friday, Hammond was evaluated by The reason for the in- cause of this. Aug. 28, after he was last seen EMS and transported to a lo- activation was to prevent This is why we made walking southbound on SR 60 cal hospital for further evalua- further scams to our citizens. the decision to take the web- in Fannin County. tion. He was reported to be in Recently, scammers had been site down for now. We are ex- On the evening of Aug. stable condition at the time of logging into that website and ploring options to begin post- 31, local residents encountered transport.” viewing those that had recent- ing this information online, Hammond “sitting along the Fannin County EMA ly been arrested. The scam- but we will only do this if we side of the road near the south- expressed its sincere thanks mer would then locate family can ensure that our citizens ern base of Wilscot Mountain to everyone who shared Ham- members for the recently in- will not be scammed from the in Fannin County, not far from mond’s information, “reported carcerated person. The scam- utilization of this information. the area where he was origi- possible sightings, remained mer would then contact the We will continue to post nally reported missing.” vigilant, and assisted with the family and act as if they were all recent arrests in the North “The individuals imme- search efforts.” law enforcement officers. Georgia News each week. diately recognized Hammond “We especially thank The Wilderness Pickers from the information and pho- the individuals who recog- The Wilderness Pick- September 11th in the Old tographs that had been shared nized James, stopped to assist Union County Jail ers will be in concert Friday, Courthouse. This talented with the public and stopped to him, and immediately noti- offer assistance,” Fannin EMA fied authorities,” Fannin EMA Arrest/Booking Report $ CASH 4 $ from six-member acoustic group said. “After picking Ham- said. “We also extend our ap- Shawn Dyer, Union County Sheriff the Blairsville area will mond up, they immediately preciation to all responding $ perform timeless favorites $ $ Antique/Barn $ from the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘and notified authorities that he had been located. agencies and personnel who assisted throughout the search. 08/31/26 Jonathan Bryson Brown, age 23, Blairsville, GA $ $ $ Tools $ ‘70s. Expect a mix of oldies, “Hammond told them No further details are available 09/03/26 Pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs John William Darby, age 37, Murphy, NC $ $ country, classic rock, and a that he had been in the woods at this time.” $ Old Tractors $ touch of bluegrass. DUI-drugs less safe, failure to maintain lane $ & Wagons $ This is a free concert Rep. Clyde accepting applications 08/31/26 Eva Melissa Loredo, age 31, Houston, TX $ $ and everyone is invited to at- for Nomination to U.S. Service Academies 09/03/26 Driving without a valid license $ Labosco’s at the $ James Keith Maney, age 50, Blairsville, GA $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ tend. The doors open at 6 PM Congressman Andrew America’s prestigious service DUI/drugs/less safe, driving while license su- $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ and the concert begins at 7 Clyde (GA-09) announced academies.” spended/revoked, endangering child under 14 YOA $ $ PM. Donations are always ac- $ 706-745-0097 $ cepted and appreciated for the that U.S. Service Academy nomination applications for Each year, Congressman Clyde nominates eligible can- while DUI, failure to yield right of way, turning 09/01/26 Steve Cody Shaw, age 34, Dawsonville, GA CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! upkeep of the old courthouse. the Class of 2031 are now didates for appointment to four Hold for court open. To be considered for a of the five U.S. Service Acad- There are 56 inmates currently housed in the Union County Jail. HEALTHY SMILES nomination, candidates must submit all required materials emies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the Blairsville Police Department by Dr. B by October 23, 2026. “One of the most re- U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air warding responsibilities I Force Academy (USAFA), Arrests and Incident Report have while serving the Ninth Colorado Springs, CO; and the Chief Michael “Bear” Baxter General, Cosmetic & LASER ROOT District in Congress is the op- portunity to assist Northeast U.S. Merchant Marine Acad- emy (USMMA), Kings Point, Laser Dentistry CANALS Georgians in their journey to NY. The fifth academy, the 09/03/26 Skylar Matthew Knowlton, age 19, Blairsville, GA military service,” said Clyde. U.S. Coast Guard Academy Disorderly conduct, creating hazardous or offensive A DVANCED C ARE “If nominated and appointed, these young men and women (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congres- 08/31/26 conditions Criminal trespass, courtesy escort Dr. Bourguignon C LOSE T O H OME ! will receive a world-class edu- sional nomination for appoint- 09/01/26 Missing person located, funeral escort, courtesy escort cation, rigorous training, and ment. a commission as a U.S. mili- The nomination process 09/02/26 Assist other agency, courtesy escort 09/03/26 Accident, disorderly conduct, courtesy escort, NEW PATIENTS AND EMERGENCIES WELCOME tary officer upon graduation. is competitive and seeks stu- 3 MVAs I strongly encourage quali- dents who demonstrate aca- New Number: 828.389.7305 t fied students to apply, and I look forward to nominating demic excellence, leadership potential, strong character, 09/04/26 09/05/26 Funeral escort, courtesy escort, MVA Lost property, courtesy escort 159 Hwy 64 W (Next to UCB in Moore Ins. Building) Hayesville, NC another incredible group of physical fitness, and a commit- 09/06/26 MVA -JDFOTFtXXXIFBMUIZTNJMFTCZESCDPN our nation’s future leaders to ment to service. VETERANS Poet Eugene Stevenson to speak Union County Sheriff ’s Office Raffle CORNER at Moss Library September 9th benefiting UCSO’s Give a Gift Disabled American by Joan M. Howard September ’s gather- Veterans - DAV Chapter 11: ing of Coffee With Poets and Meetings are on the 2nd Mon- Writers will feature award 54”x 54” Framed Bear Print day of each month at 7 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. winning poet Eugene Steven- son. He will speak Wednesday, September 9, at 10:30 A.M. at donated by Jason Clemmons Navy Seabee Veterans Moss Memorial Library in Of America, Island X-3, GA: Hayesville, N.C. This monthly Meetings are on the 2nd Fri- event is sponsored by North Can be day of each month at 2 PM; 78 Carolina Writers’ Network Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, West. purchased at the GA 30512. Eugene Stevenson, son Navy Seabee Veterans of immigrants, father of ex- Union County Support Alliance: Meetings are on the 2nd Friday of each patriates, is author of Olives Keep Secrets (Seed Bed Press, forthcoming October, 2026), Sheriff ’s Office month at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. Heart’s Code (Kelsay Books, Eugene Stevenson Marine Corps League, 2024). His poems have been presentation. Please bring a or Detachment 783: Meetings published widely in liter- ary magazines and have been poem or short story of about three minutes to participate. are on the 3rd Saturday of nominated for the Pushcart There is no critique. CWPW Sunrise Grocery each month at 10 AM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA Prize. He lives in Brasstown, is sponsored by North Caro- North Carolina. More at eu- lina Writers Network West 30512. genestevenson.com which also includes writers Tickets American Legion - Ira Weaver Post: Meetings are on the 3rd Tuesday of each month Coffee With Poets and Writers meets every second Wednesday from March to in Towns, Union, Fannin, and Rabun Counties in Georgia. NCWN-West continues to use at 6 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., $10 Blairsville, GA 30512. Vietnam Veterans Of December 2026 at Moss Me- morial Library. The event is free and open to the public. technology to share our writ- ing. We offer writing events and classes both online and in America, Chapter 1101: An open mike will follow the person. Meetings are on the 3rd Thurs- day Of each month at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairs- Valdosta State University’s ville, GA 30512. Veterans Of Foreign Summer 2026 Dean’s List Wars - Post 7394: Meetings More than 500 sudents with an institutional grade are on the 4th Tuesday Of each were named to Valdosta State point average of 3.00 or high- month at 4 PM; 78 Blue Ridge University’s Summer 2026 er. Please note that develop- Hwy., Blairsville GA 30512. Dean’s List. mental studies, transient, and To qualify for Dean’s graduate students are not eli- PTSD Support Group: List at VSU, students must gible for Dean’s List status. Meets on the 1st and 3rd Sat- achieve a semester grade point Blairsville students in- urdays at 10 AM. average of 3.50 or higher on cluded: Michelle Crawford; nine or more semester hours Mary Lovell; and Sarah Ensley. NGTC Honor Roll and President’s List North Georgia Techni- 12 credit hours with no devel- cal College (NGTC) recently opmental courses. announced students named to Students named to the the President’s List and Hon- Honor Roll include: Cassan- Union County or Roll for summer semester dra Taylor, Blairsville, EMS Elementary School 2026. The President’s List rec- Professions. Title l Family Game Night ognizes full-time students with Blairsville students a 4.0 GPA. The Honor Roll named to the President’s List Thursday, September 10th recognizes full-time students include: Julie Amara, Inter- 5:30 - 6:30 PM with a 3.5 GPA. Full-time stu- disciplinary Studies; Jennie (2nd and 3rd Grade) dents are those taking at least Southern, Business Manage- ment; and Jessica Springer, Tuesday, September 15th 5:30 -6:30 PM Costine accepted Allied Health Professions. (4th and 5th Grade) into the Honors College Taylor Costine, of Blairsville, GA, has been ac- cepted into the Honors Col- lege at the College of Charles- Class of 1981 ton this fall. Costine joins an inspired learning community within the 45 Class Union County Middle School Honors College. Honors stu- dents enjoy priority first-year Reunion housing in the Honors Living- A Cup of Conversation with Learning Center, priority class Saturday, the Administration registration, exclusive Honors September 24, 2026 courses and programs, and ac- October 17th 9:00 AM cess to community events and RSVP by October 1st Stop by, say hello, ask Honors activities. questions, and learn more Costine, a graduate of Chris ... 706-781-9068 about the 2026-27 Union County High School, is Pattie ... 706-897-0550 majoring in Marine Biology at school year. the College of Charleston. Debbie ... 706-374-1018
September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9B 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! REMOTE CONTROLLED GAINFULLY EMPLOYED PRISTINE, FURNISHED RECREATIONAL RECLINER - lift chair. Soft 36-YEAR-OLD MALE EFFICIENCY APARTMENT. BANKRUPTCY fore September 14, 2026. BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the One person, preferably female. 2018 25’ WINNEBAGO gray leather. Very good condi- MINNIE PLUS - One owner/ tion. $425 Cash only. 706-781- SEEKING TO RENT A PET- FRIENDLY ROOM. Willing No pets, smoking. $1500. First, DEBT RELIEF grounds of any such objections. All objections should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees garage kept, auto self-level- 9631. N(Sept9) to assist with cleaning, cooking, last, deposit. Blairsville, N129 THE LANCE must be tendered with your objections, unless yard work, chores, etc. Please area. 404-597-2579. 706-781- you qualify to file as an indigent party. Coning and exceptionally clean. FOR SALE: LG refrigera- call/text Jeremy at 706-994- 9780. N(Sept9,16) LAW FIRM, P.C. tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are $17,500 OBO, 239-322-7086. tor, Whirlpool electric stove, N(Sept9) Whirlpool microwave, 9MM 5985. N(Apr1,ufn) 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE FREE filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. Glock model 34, 9MM EAA WANTED: INDIAN AR- HOMES: In Union & Fannin Counties. Also a 2BD House for CONSULTATION Kristin Stephens Stanley REAL ESTATE “Witness”, 22 Taurus revolver, Winslow 22-250, Ruger circuit ROWHEADS/ARTIFACTS- Individual pcs or whole col- rent. Units can be GRFA. Hud 57 Sears Way Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer Deputy Clerk Approved. Call (706) 633-6436 or Blairsville, GA 30514 TWO BEAUTIFUL CREEK judge 45-410, 30 carbine, Hen- lections. Fair prices paid. Call 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 1-828-837-4861. N(Feb11,UFN) 706-835-1212 Blairsville, GA 30512 FRONT RV/CAMPER LOTS: ry 357-rifle-new, Winchester or text-Gen0 @ 828-371-5282. Address located at 9200 Murphy Hwy 30-30, C-Z 12 gauge o&u, Itha- WE ARE A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY. WE (706) 439-6006 N(Sept2-Oct7) 3 BEDROOM / 2 BATH, just HELP PEOPLE FILE FOR BANKRUPTCY RELIEF. Telephone Number Blairsville, Ga 30512. Each ca deerslayer - 2 barrels, Ruger RENTAL WANTED: Older remodeled, full basement, on N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) lot is 1.3 acres with minimal 556 AR, Cannon 64 gun safe. acreage. $1900 per month, plus restrictions. Power and Water Call 706-877-3778. NT(Sept9) Florida professional retired couple wishes to rent residential security. 706-745-4119. N(Sep9,16) LEGAL ADS NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Madeline Rousseau All creditors of the estate of Madeline Rousinstalled. Septic system will be FOR SALE: 2 axle trailer, property for July and August NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS seau, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, installed once under contract. Price: $110,000 each lot. For aluminum sides, spoke white 2027 in Blairsville, Hiawassee HELP WANTED IN RE: ESTATE OF Larry Bing Whittington All creditors of the estate of Larry Bing Whit- are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all wheels: $2500. Small chest areas. Must accept one medium tington, deceased, late of Union County, persons indebted to law, and all persons inmore information, please con- freezer: $200. Yamaha 1100, sized dog for inside living. LUCKY DOG HOSPITAL- Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their debted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Repretact Hunter Kelley at 706-994- very nice, copper color. 706- Washer and dryer preferred, two ITY NOW HIRING: Lucky’s, demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all sentative. 6767. N(Sept2,9,16,23) 745-7140. N(Sept9) bedrooms, two baths. Country Sammies Subs, Teppanyaki persons indebted to said estate are required This 14th day of August, 2026. to make immediate payment to the Personal BY: Elizabeth R. Wagner 1/1 CABIN W/ SCREENED or town setting ok. Please call Time, Blairsville Restaurant, Representative. 16445 County Road 31, Lot 80 EAGLE STORAGE is having 478.361.2772 to discuss with and Pizza Belly Hiring for Line This 28th day of August, 2026. Centre, AL 35960 PORCH on 3 sides & loft. Bo- an auction sale. September 18th BY: Wendy Suzanne Jordan ATTORNEY: G. William Little, III nus shed on property. Move in advisor. Rental cost open for Cooks, Bartenders, Managers, 1695 Mission Road 4805 Old Highway 76 at 10am. Unit belonging to Jim- right residence. Comfortable Servers, Apply in Person at res- Marianna, FL 32448 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 ready. $210,000, call 706-897- my D #20, 706-897-1866, 1557 taurant of your choice. NT(Mar18,ufn) Rhonda Michele May N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) 3131. NT(Sept9) for company to visit. We have 671 Ashley Circle Blue Ridge Hwy. N(Sept9,16) references and experience in NE Dothan, AL 36305 NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Ga. NT(Sept9,16) PART TIME HELP WANT- N(Sept2,9,16,23) IN RE: ESTATE OF Harold J. Mull 2002 HURRICANE FUN ED: Need part time office All creditors of the estate of Harold J. Mull, YARD SALE DECK on Lake Chatuge. 22’ help/salesperson for the Towns NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Gerald David Sullivan deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to MULTI-FAMILY Yamaha 115 HP motor. Trailer YARD Included. $7,850. 706-487- COMMERCIAL County area. Send resume to All creditors of the estate of Gerald David Sul- livan, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, the undersigned according to law, and all per- sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail SALE: Fri/Sat September 9250. NT(Sep9) RENTALS .com or stop by the North Geor- are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Representative. This 14th day of August, 2026. 11/12, 8-4. 95 Chatham Dr, gia News office at 266 Cleve- persons indebted to law, and all persons in- debted to said estate are required to make BY: Randy James Mull ABLE MINI STORAGE. Blairsville, GA. Furniture, books, clothing, appliances, PERSONALS 5x10 & 10x15 available. Call land Street, Blairsville, GA. NT(ufn,nc) immediate payment to the Personal Repre- sentative. This 28th day of August, 2026. 87 Devonwood Drive Marion, NC 28752 N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) housewares, plants, linens, fab- 706-745-8834. N(Apr24-ufn) BY: Jeffrey Joseph Sullivan rics, toys and more! NT(Sept9) SENIOR MALE WANTS LICENSED MASSAGE 374 West Duck Street NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Marion Joseph West, Jr. Blairsville AFFECTIONATE SENIOR THERAPIST. Full Time/Part Front Royal, VA 22630 All creditors of the estate of Marion Joseph ATTORNEY: Christopher Chapman YARD SALE! Sept. 10 & 11, FEMALE COMPANION to Time. Top Pay. Blairsville Re- 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite 202 West, Jr., deceased, late of Union County, Picker’s Barn sort Spa. Apply in person. 366 Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their 9 -3. 73 Eller Rd. Off Hwy 129 share home - home is 4 minutes Savannah, GA 31406 demands to the undersigned according to North to Mauney Circle to For- from UGH & Doctors offices. Paradise Road, Blairsville, GA. N(Sept2,9,16,23) law, and all persons indebted to law, and all & Storage Any day, 10 - 6 p.m. 706-745- persons indebted to said estate are required est Circle. Follow signs. N(Sept9) Let us meet for breakfast at a IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY to make immediate payment to the Personal 7483. N(Sept28,ufn) STATE OF GEORGIA YARD SALE at 94 Ashley Cir, restaurant of your choice, my IN RE: ESTATE OF Representative. This 14th day of August, 2026. Blairsville. Friday, Sept.11 and treat! 706-835-2013. N(Sept9,16) ARNOLD B. EMERY from $50/month FULL TIME EXPERIENCED DECEASED BY: Darla Lin Conner 166 Skeenah Gap Road Saturday, Sept 12. Hours 7 to CARPENTER: Must have ESTATE NO. 2025-157 Blairsville, GA 30512 PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION 6pm. Lots of dishes and glassware, antique furniture. Grand- WANTED 10x10 thru 20x30 transportation and must be on time. Starting pay $19/hour, NOTICE To whom it may concern: N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Stephen H. Fales, Anthony J. Brown, William kids handling estate. NT(Sept9) You can sell from your unit! must be able to do finish work. Clair Brown, Linnea Brown Ricker, and Other IN RE: ESTATE OF Timothy Gerard Franco JUNK CARS: We pay CASH Call 706-400-0316. NT(Aug12,ufn) Interested Persons: All creditors of the estate of Timothy Ge- ESTATE SALE. Murphy NC for junk cars. Call (706) 379- (706) 745-0097 BLAIRSVILLE COMFORT [List here all heirs who have not acknowl- edged service] rard Franco, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their – Spur 60. Saturday September 3190. N(Jun21,UFN) 19/129 South of Square 1.25 miles! James Ruel Fales has petitioned to be appoint- demands to the undersigned according to 12. 9am till 2pm. Off Nichols WANTED - TOP DOLLAR INN hiring full and part time ed administrator(s) of the estate of Arnold B. law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons indebted to said estate are required Road. Normal house items, P A I D : B l a i r s v i l l e P i c k - - Front Desk, Housekeeping, Emery deceased, of said county. All interested to make immediate payment to the Personal persons are hereby notified to show cause Breakfast and Laundry positools, Snap-on tool box, 1951 er’s Barn. Antiques, Clean Ford truck, Chaparral boat, F u r n i t u r e , C o l l e c t i b l e s , RESIDENTIAL tions. Come in to 90 Fisher why said petition should not be granted. All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objec- Representative. This 14th day of August, 2026. BY: Madelyn Eddings 2023 Suzuki 4-Wheeler, wash- Pottery, Art, Glassware, Farm RENTALS Street or call 706-745-6844. tions, and must be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before September 14, 2026. 3842 Cara Lane Zephyrhills, FL 33541 er / dryer. TnT Estate Sales. We Equipment & More! Gold N(Aug19-Sept23) BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the ATTORNEY: Daniel J. Davenport PO Box 923 sell it all. Look for this and oth- & Silver Coins, Jewelry. FOR RENT: 1BR/1BA cabin MOUNTAIN VIEW OIL petition must be in writing, setting forth the Blairsville, GA 30514 grounds of any such objections. All objections er sales on our Facebook page. Top dollar paid! 1 mile on in Hiawassee for $1,400/month CHANGE NOW HIRING should be sworn to before a notary public or N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) 828-557-8223. NT(Sept9) 19/129 South of the Square! plus utilities & light landscaping. Full-Time Oil Change Ser- before a probate court clerk, and filing fees NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS must be tendered with your objections, unless 706-745-0097. N(Jun5,ufn) Perfect for nurse, educator, vice Technicians: Previous you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- IN RE: ESTATE OF Ronald G. Gratton All creditors of the estate of Ronald G. Gratton, first responder, retiree. Fully FOR SALE SCRAP CARS WANTED - furnished and modernized with mechanical or automotive oil change experience is beneficial tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all per- Top Dollar Paid including pick- central AC/heat, W/D, efficiency but will train the right indi- date. If no objections are filed, the petition may sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted API CLIMBING STAND - up - call or text Todd at Tank be granted without a hearing. kitchen, new bathroom. Close vidual willing to learn. Must Kristin Stephens Stanley to said estate are required to make immediate Never been used, $200 cash. Town USA - 706.633.6072 to Georgia Mountain Fair and speak, read and write English, Judge of the Probate Court payment to the Personal Representative. This 14th day of August, 2026. 706-994-3230. N(Sept9) leave msg. N(Jul15,ufn) Young Harris College. Contact: valid driver license, 18yrs old By: Charla Dyer Deputy Clerk BY: Caleb Lane Kelley Clint Smith tel/txt (561) 307- or older. Work hours are Tues- 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 274 Kings Road Blairsville, GA 30512 Blairsville, GA 30512 2093. NT(Sept9) Sat, 9a-5p (closed Sun-Mon). BLAIRSVILLE N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) Address Very clean operation. Apply in (706) 439-6006 YOUNG HARRIS, person 10am-5pm, Tues-Sat at Telephone Number NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the FURNISHED HOME 2547 PICKERS BARN N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) 249 Blue Ridge Hwy, Blairs- North Carolina Self-Service Storage Facility Sq.Ft. 3 Bedroom, 3 full baths, ville, GA. Resumes can also be IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Act, N.C. Gen. Stat. § 44A-43, Incredible Stor- age, located at 472 McDonald Rd Hayesville NC Garage w/ opener, chairlift. STATE OF GEORGIA emailed to: tankshot14@gmail. IN RE: ESTATE OF 28904 will sell at public auction the property Antiques, Collectibles, Furniture, Glassware, Pictures, Coins, Av a i l a b l e N o v e m b e r 1 5 , com NT(Aug19-Oct7) JO ANN BARRENTINE stored in Unit 128 Building 4 to satisfy the S. Richardson’s lien for unpaid rent and other Rustic Decor, Fine Jewelry, Diamonds, Gold, Silver, & Much More! 2026, 1 yr lease. Rent $2,655 DECEASED ESTATE NO. 2024-132 charges. mo+deposit, all appliances. RELIABLE LABORER/ NOTICE Auction will be held and sold to the highest WANTED - Antiques, Pottery, Gold, Diamonds, Silver & Coins PUNCH-OUT PERSON bidder at 8:30 AM on 9/19//2026 Owner pays trash, water, yard [For discharge from office and all liability] Tenant may have the right to redeem contents Affordable Workshops for Crafts & Hobbies with limited Electric! work, pest control. No Pets. NEEDED. Reliable transpor- PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF MARK BARRENTINE FOR DIS- prior to sale. Manager has the right to refuse tation to and from job sites is any or all bids. ~ Booths Available ~ Must see to appreciate. Call for appointment and application. required. Call 762-349-1551 or CHARGE AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF JO ANN BARRENTINE, DECEASED. N(Sept9) To Whom it may concern: 19/129 South of the Blairsville Square 1.25 miles Email: summer4me@ email Len.fineline@gmail.com This is to notify you to file an objection, if there NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this IN RE: ESTATE OF Joseph Jefferson Carlin, III 706-745-0097 • Home of the Adirondack Furniture Factory! windstream.net call 706-970- NT(Sept2-23) Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before September All creditors of the estate of Joseph Jeffer- son Carlin, III, deceased, late of Union County, 0424. NT(Sept9,16) WHAT YOU’LL DO AS A 21, 2026. Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the HOUSE CLEANER: Main- petition must be in writing, setting forth the demands to the undersigned according to grounds of any such objections. All objections law, and all persons indebted to law, and all tain a clean, organized, and should be sworn to before a notary public or persons indebted to said estate are required comfortable home environment before a probate court clerk, and filing fees to make immediate payment to the Personal Representative. through reliable and thorough must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- This 21st day of August, 2026. housekeeping services. Perform tact probate court personnel for the required BY: Bonnie Marie Carlin 3 DeSota Street routine cleaning tasks such as amount of filing fees. If any objections are Asheville, NC 28806 filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, date. If no objections are filed, the petition may ATTORNEY: Cary D. Cox PO Box 748 mopping, cleaning bathrooms be granted without a hearing. Blairsville, GA 30514 Kristin Stephens Stanley and kitchens, and maintaining Judge of the Probate Court N(Aug26,Sept2,9,16) general household areas. Assist By: Charla Dyer APPLICATION TO REGISTER A BUSINESS TO BE with laundry, changing linens, Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 CONDUCTED UNDER A TRADE NAME, PART- organizing rooms, and other Blairsville, GA 30512 NERSHIP, OR OTHERS WE BUY & TRADE GUNS Address STATE OF GEORGIA light household cleaning duties (706) 439-6006 COUNTY OF UNION as needed. Ensure that cleaning Telephone Number The undersigned does hereby certify that Ed- ward J. Obal conducting a business as Earth GUNSMITH ON SITE supplies and household areas are properly maintained and kept N(Sept9) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY & Stone Landscape Design Group in the City of Blairsville, County of Union, State of Georgia under the name of Earth & Stone Landscape in good condition. Run errands STATE OF GEORGIA 190 BLUE RIDGE STREET, IN RE: ESTATE OF Design Group and that the nature of the busi- and all. The job is 3 hours/day, 5 FRANKIE MAE CARNEY ness is landscape consulting, design, and project oversight and that the names and ad- BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 days a week, and the pay is $25 DECEASED dresses of the persons, firms, or partnership 25 Years of Experience per hour. You can email me via ESTATE NO. 2026-98 owning and carrying on said trade or business (706) 745-GUNS (4867) PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION lawrenceejob@gmail.com for NOTICE are: Edward J. Obal 817 Reserve Rd, Blairsville, Now Accepting Property Listings GA 30512. more information. N(Sept2-Oct7) To whom it may concern: N(Sept9,16) www.georgiaemr.com William Franklin Carney has petitioned to be appointed administrator(s) of the estate of (877) 307-3367 WANTED PERSONAL AS- Frankie Mae Carney deceased, of said county. ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE PETITION Make: Mercedes 27 Gardens Way SISTANT/ ADMIN HELP. (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of Model: GLB bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, Blairsville, GA 30512 The work is a combination of Year: 2021 CABIN RENTAL personal assistant, administrator and/or grant of certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons VIN: W1N4M4GB8MW165715 Present location of vehicle: 166 Blue Ridge St, are hereby notified to show cause why said IN BEAUTIFUL WEARS VALLEY and housekeeper suitable for a petition should not be granted. All objections Blairsville, GA self-motivated and organized to the petition must be in writing, setting forth Sale Date: 9/25/26 Noon GATEWAY TO THE SMOKIES the GARDENS N(Sept9,16) person. Full or part-time. Must the grounds of any such objections, and must GATLINBURG—PIGEON FORGE be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- be a non-smoker with reliable Apartments transportation. Retirees wel- B lairsville, Georgia come! Private home off Owl Creek Rd near Brasstown Bald. (678) 708-6010. NT(Sep2-16) PART-TIME NOW LEASING WORK EXCHANGE OP- PORTUNITY. Great oppor- HELP WANTED Beautifully Designed tunity to live and work for a non-profit in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. Looking Towns County Herald for service minded people to 1,2 & 3 Bedroom work in housekeeping, grounds maintenance, construction and Office Assistance customer service. This is a fam- Apartment Homes ily-oriented environment. Back- ground check and drug testing Ad Salesperson required. Your work week in • Energy Star Rated Appliance Package COVE CREEK COTTAGE: Cozy, unique setting next to Cove Creek, 2 BR/2 BA, fireplace, hot tub, exchange for room, board and a small stipend. Please call (678) News Reporter • Spacious Floor Plans king bed, private yet convenient, sleeps six. 708-6010. NT(Sept2-16) • On-Site Management FOR MORE INFO & Send resume to RESERVATIONS CALL... HELP WANTED: Local Home • 24-Hour Maintenance Builder now hiring carpenters, northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail.com • Smoke Free Community In The Smokies helpers and landscapers for remodeling and new homes. newsjarrard@gmail.com CALL US TODAY! 706-487-7199 Cabin Rentals Must be able to climb ladders or stop by the Ask for Cove and have own transportation. North Georgia News office TTD phone # 800-255-0056 Most work is in Blairsville or at 266 Cleveland Street, Creek Cottage Blue Ridge. Experience helpful This institution is an equal opportunity provider but not required. Please call or Blairsville, GA 30512 800-893-7274 text 706 897-1150. N(Sept9,16)
Page 10B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 NOTICE Tuesday of said month unless said date falls on Atlanta, Georgia 30305, (404) 994-7400. 1006- the mortgage is as follows: The property is conveyed subject to the res- est resulting in a total Judgment amount of IN RE: ESTATE OF Charles Bruce Dillinger a Federal Holiday, in which case being the first 2792A THIS LAW FIRM MAY BE ACTING AS A Cenlar FSB ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained in $14,590.11, which is the DEFAULT JUDGMENT All creditors of the estate of Charles Bruce Wednesday of said month), the following de- DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A 425 Phillips Boulevard that certain Warranty Deed from Robert J. Butt amount. The said lien has been foreclosed Dillinger, deceased, late of Union County, scribed property: All that tract or parcel or land DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE Ewing, NJ 08618 to E.S. Dockery, Sr., dated November 19, 1956, upon and is ordered and declared due because Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their lying and being in the 16th District, 1st Section, USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. 1006-2792A Note that pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2, filed for record November 26, 1956 at 11:00 of non-payment thereof and the court ordered demands to the undersigned according to Land Lot 152 of Union County, Georgia, contain- N(Sept9,16,23,30) the above individual or entity is not required by a.m., recorded in Deed Book NN, Page 418 foreclosure by the court. This foreclosure sale law, and all persons indebted to law, and all ing 1.82 acres, more or less, and being Lot Five law to negotiate, amend, or modify the terms (top), aforesaid Records. will be made for the purpose of paying the persons indebted to said estate are required (5) of Hunters Ridge Subdivision, as shown on STATE OF GEORGIA of the mortgage. The property is conveyed subject to the res- court ordered judgment and all expenses of to make immediate payment to the Personal a plat of survey made by North Georgia Land COUNTY OF UNION THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLEC- ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained in this sale. The said $14,590.11 plus publication Representative. Surveyors, Roy A. Terrell, GRLS#1700 dated NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER TOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY IN- that certain Warranty Deed from Edward Ste- costs and accrued interest up to the date of This 28th day of August, 2026. May 24, 1984 and recorded in Union County Pursuant to the power of sale contained in FORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT phens to E.S. Dockery, dated March 21, 1951, sale shall be the opening bid. BY: Charles Derick Dillinger Records in Plat Book P, Page72. Said plat is the Security Deed executed by SARAH CAYER PURPOSE. filed for record January 1, 1957 at 10:00 a.m., The entity that has full authority to negotiate, PO Box 1492 incorporated herein, by reference hereto, for to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, UNITED WHOLESALE MORTGAGE, LLC, recorded in Deed Book NN, Page 457 (bottom), amend, and modify all terms of this lien/judg- Blairsville, GA 30514 a full and complete description of the above Inc., as grantee, as a nominee for United as Attorney-in-Fact for aforesaid Records. ment with a debtor is Owen Glen Property Own- ATTORNEY: Rebecca Kendrick described property. Subject to restrictions Wholesale Mortgage, LLC in the original princi- SARAH CAYER The property is conveyed subject to the Blan- ers’ Association, Inc. c/o J. Steve Astin Attorney PO Box 1286 recorded in Deed Book 138, Pages 496-497, pal amount of $316,000.00 dated July 26, 2024, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Part- ket Easement from Ivy Log Development, LLC at Law, Hindmon & Astin, LLC, 702 Pat Haralson Blairsville, GA 30514 Union County Records. Subject to road and and recorded in Deed Book 1386, Page 571, ners, PLLC to Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Dr. P.O. Box 1869 Blairsville, GA 30512, (706) N(Sept2,9,16,23) utility easements recorded in Deed Book 138, Union County records, said Security Deed being 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Corporation, a cooperative corporation, un- 970-4050, astinsteve@yahoo.com. Please be Page 529, and Deed Book 138, Pages 176-178, last transferred to UNITED WHOLESALE MORT- Alpharetta, GA 30004 dated, filed for record October 4, 2006 at 11:45 advised that the judgment creditor is not re- NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Union County Records. Also known as: 51 Back GAGE, LLC in Deed Book 1434, Page 716, Union Phone: 470-321-7112 a.m., recorded in Deed Book 671, Page 111, quired by law to negotiate, amend, or modify IN RE: ESTATE OF John H. Garret Log Road Blairsville, GA 30512 Parcel ID: 118 County records, the undersigned will sell at = Firm File No. 26-439320 aforesaid Records. the terms of the judgment instrument. All creditors of the estate of John H. Garrett, 015 The debt secured by said Security Deed outcry to the highest bidder for cash, before N(Sept9,16,23,30) The property is conveyed subject to the Ease- The said property will be sold as the property deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are has been and is hereby declared due because the Courthouse door in said County, or at such ment as contained in that certain Joint Tenancy of GPR Ventures, LLC c/o Michael Bridges. The hereby notified to render in their demands to of, among other possible events of default, other place as lawfully designated, within the STATE OF GEORGIA, with Survivorship Warranty Deed from Ivy Log said Michael Bridges has a mailing address the undersigned according to law, and all per- failure to pay the indebtedness as and when legal hours of sale, on 10/6/2026, the property COUNTY OF UNION Development, LLC to Theodore B. Adams and of 3120 Ivy Log Rd. Blairsville, Union County, sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted due and in the manner provided in the Note in said Security Deed and described as follows: NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PER COURT Brandy C. Adams, as joint tenants with rights Georgia 30512; said judgment debtors herein to said estate are required to make immediate and Security Deed. The debt remaining in de- ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING ORDER of survivorship and not as tenants in com- who are, to the best of the undersigned’s payment to the Personal Representative. fault, this sale will be made for the purpose AND BEING IN THE 9TH DISTRICT, 1ST SECTION, On August 26, 2026, per court order of Honor- mon, dated January 18, 2008, filed for record knowledge and belief, the parties in posses- This 4th day of September, 2026. of paying the same and all expenses of this LAND LOT 291 OF UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA, able Judge Joy Parks of Union County Superior January 29, 2008 at 2:30 p.m., recorded in Deed sion thereof. The said property is known as BY: Nancy Hoyle sale, as provided in the Security Deed and by CONTAINING 1.175 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AND Court, the property of GPR Ventures, LLC c/o Book 745, Page 120, aforesaid Records. Owen Glen Lot 171 and Tax map 052018B171 in 495 Lovedale Road law, including attorney’s fees (notice of intent BEING TRACT 1-B AND TRACT D AS SHOWN ON Michael Bridges identified as Lot 171 Owen The property is conveyed subject to the Ease- Union County, Georgia 30512 and consisting of Sylva, NC 28779 to collect attorney’s fees having been given). A PLAT OF SURVEY BY ROCHESTER & ASSOCI- Glen subdivision land lots 117 and 118; and Tax ments as conveyed in that certain Joint Ten- land only containing 1.009 acres more or less ATTORNEY: Jack Lance Jr. Said property is commonly known as 51 Back ATES, INC. DATED APRIL 12, 1994 AND RECORD- parcel 052018B171 was Ordered to be sold on ancy with Survivorship Warranty Deed from Ivy according to a plat of survey by Cleveland & 57 Sears Way Log Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512 together with all ED IN UNION COUNTY RECORDS IN PLAT BOOK the courthouse steps of Union County. The civil Log Development, LLC to Tim Hanson and Linda Cox Land Surveying, LLC dated May 15, 2014 Blairsville, GA 30512 fixtures and personal property attached to and 40, PAGE 19. SAID PLAT IS INCORPORATED action file number is SUCV2026000149JP. The Hanson, as joint tenants with rights of survi- and recorded in Plat Book 66, Page 209 of the N(Sept9,16,23,30) constituting a part of said property, if any. To HEREIN, BY REFERENCE HERETO, FOR A FULL court order of Judge Parks entered an order vorship and not as tenants in common, dated Plat Records of Union County, Georgia; and the the best knowledge and belief of the under- AND COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE ABOVE for Default Judgment and Judicial Foreclosure November 5, 2008, filed for record November 6, subject property is subject to liens, outstand- NOTICE OF PETITION TO CHANGE NAME signed, the party (or parties) in possession of DESCRIBED PROPERTY. ordering the sale of Lot 171 in Owen Glen sub- 2008 at 11:30 a.m., recorded in Deed Book 779, ing ad valorem taxes, and/or easements, and/ OF MINOR CHILD the subject property is (are): Donald R. Owenby BEING THE SAME PROPERTY AS CONVEYED IN division by virtue of unpaid dues and assess- Page 441, aforesaid Records. or restrictive covenants appearing of record, 26-CV-305-RG or tenant or tenants. Nationstar Mortgage LLC THAT CERTAIN LIMITED WARRANTY DEED RE- ments and a foreclosure of the land described The property is conveyed subject to the Grant if any. Notice is hereby given that on September 4th, d/b/a Mr. Cooper is the entity or individual CORDED AT DEED BOOK 1320, PAGE 519, UNION in Deed Book 993, Pages 509-510 on December of Flowage Easement from Charles S. Mauney The proceeds from said sale will be used 2026, Jessica Lynn Maxcy filed a Petition in designated, who shall have full authority to COUNTY, GEORGIA RECORDS. 15, 2014 (per the legal description set forth to Unites States of America, dated December first to pay the total Judgment amount due the Superior Court of Union County, Georgia, negotiate, amend and modify all terms of the Said property being known as: 232 COOK LN, below). By virtue and authority of the court’s 30, 1941, filed for record December 30, 1941, of $14,590.11 plus additional attorney fees, Civil Action File No. 26-CV-305-RG, seeking to mortgage. Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Mr. BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 order, the court hereby orders the sale by the recorded in Deed Book EE, Page 427, aforesaid accrued interest, and publication costs to the change the name of the minor child from Jacob Cooper 8950 Cypress Waters Blvd. Coppell, To the best of the undersigned’s knowledge, undersigned at public outcry to the highest Records. date of sale, as prescribed therein and ex- Aiden Kline to Jacob Aiden Maxcy. TX 75019 1-888-480-2432 Note, however, that the party or parties in possession of said prop- bidder, for cash, after proper advertisement The property is conveyed subject to the Cov- penses of the sale, with a balance, if any, to be Any interested or affect party has the right to such entity or individual is not required by law erty is/are SARAH CAYER or tenant(s). before the courthouse door of Union County, enants and Restrictions recorded in Deed Book paid over to the legal owners and debtors GPR appear and file objections within the time pre- to negotiate, amend or modify the terms of the The debt secured by said Security Deed has Georgia within the legal hours of sale on the 657, Pages 152-164; Deed Book 744, Pages 85- Ventures, LLC c/o Michael Bridges. scribed by O.C.G.A. § 10-12-1. loan. Said property will be sold subject to: (a) been and is hereby declared due and payable first Tuesday in October 2026, the same being 94; Deed Book 769, Pages 649-716 as amended The sale will be conducted subject (1) to con- This 4th day of September, 2026 any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including because of, among other possible events of October 6, 2026, the following described prop- in Deed Book 774, Pages 499-510; and Deed firmation that the sale is not prohibited under Jessica Lynn Maxcy taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and default, failure to pay the indebtedness as pro- erty, to-wit: Book 821, Pages 276-335, as amended in Deed the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final con- Petitioner, Pro Se payable), (b) unpaid water or sewage bills that vided for in the Note and said Security Deed. All that tract or parcel of land lying and be- Book 932, Pages 726-731, and Deed Book 976, firmation and audit of the status of the Judg- 210 Williams Drive constitute a lien against the property whether The debt remaining in default, this sale will be ing in Land Lots 117 & 118, 9th District, 1st Pages 492-496, Union County Georgia records. ment Lien and court order entered by the Union Blairsville, Georgia 30512 due and payable or not yet due and payable made for the purpose of paying the same and Section, Union County, Georgia, and being Lot The property is conveyed subject to the re- County Superior Court. (240) 925-0634 and which may not be of record, (c) the right all expenses of sale, including attorney’s fees One Hundred Seventy-One (171) of Owen Glen ciprocal easement and operating agreement The undersigned is attempting to collect the N(Sept9,16,23,30) of redemption of any taxing authority, (d) any (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees hav- Subdivision, Phase IV containing 1.000 acres, recorded in Deed Book 769, Pages 717-743 and debt and any information obtained will be used matters which might be disclosed by an ac- ing been given). more or less, as shown on a plat of survey by Deed Book 821, Pages 248-275, Union County, for that purpose. NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER, curate survey and inspection of the property, Said property will be sold subject to the fol- Cleveland & Cox Land Surveying, LLC, dated Georgia Records. The Plaintiff and judgment creditor and se- UNION COUNTY and (e) any assessments, liens, encumbrances, lowing: (1) any outstanding ad valorem taxes 05/15/2014, as recorded in Plat Book 66, Page The property is conveyed subject to the right cured creditor pursuant to this lien and Pursuant to the Power of Sale contained in a zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and (including taxes which are a lien, whether or 209, (“Plat”) Union County records, which de- of way to Union County, Georgia as recorded in foreclosure of this lien, Owen Glen Property Security Deed given by Donald Owenby a/k/a matters of record superior to the Security Deed not yet due and payable); (2) the right of re- scription is incorporated herein by reference Deed Book 192, Page 162, Union County, Geor- Owners’ Association, Inc., is represented by J. Donald R. Owenby to Mortgage Electronic Reg- first set out above. The sale will be conducted demption of any taxing authority; (3) any mat- and made a part hereof. gia records. Steve Astin Attorney at Law, Hindmon & Astin, istration Systems, Inc., as grantee, as nominee subject to (1) confirmation that the sale is not ters which might be disclosed by an accurate The property is conveyed subject to the res- A copy of the court order and this advertise- LLC, 702 Pat Haralson Dr. Blairsville, GA 30512, for Pacific Union Financial, LLC, its successors prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; survey and inspection of the property; and (4) ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained ment as presented to the publisher of this legal P.O. Box 1869, (706) 970-4050, astinsteve@ and assigns dated 3/25/2016 and recorded and (2) final confirmation and audit of the sta- any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning in that certain Warranty Deed from Mollie gazette has been sent by certified mail to the yahoo.com. in Deed Book 1036 Page 149 Union County, tus of the loan with the holder of the Security ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and mat- Stephens, Edward Stephens, June Stephens debtors at least thirty (30) days prior to the J. Steve Astin Georgia records; as last transferred to or ac- Deed. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. Section 9-13-172.1, ters of record superior to the Security Deed and Oliver Stephens, all heirs at Law of Samuel date of the foreclosure sale, if this foreclosure Attorney for Owen Glen POA, Inc. quired by Rocket Mortgage, LLC, conveying the which allows for certain procedures regarding first set out above. J. Stephens, deceased to E.S. Dockery, dated is on the dwelling of the debtor at the time the Ga Bar No. 026198 after-described property to secure a Note in the rescission of judicial and non-judicial sales Said sale will be conducted subject to the fol- April 15, 1950, recorded May 19, 1950, record- COURT ORDERED FORECLOSURE OF LIEN was N(Sept9,16,23,30) the original principal amount of $119,658.00, in the State of Georgia, the Deed Under Power lowing: (1) confirmation that the sale is not ed in Deed Book JJ, Page 34 (bottom), Records given all in accordance with O.C.G.A. §44-14with interest at the rate specified therein, there and other foreclosure documents may not be prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; of Union County, Georgia. 162, et. seq. (this foreclosure is not on the will be sold by the undersigned at public out- provided until final confirmation and audit of and (2) final confirmation and audit of the sta- The property is conveyed subject to the res- dwelling of the debtor but on a lot only with no cry to the highest bidder for cash before the the status of the loan as provided immediately tus of the loan with the holder of the Security ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained home or improvements). Courthouse door of Union County, Georgia (or above. Rocket Mortgage, LLC as agent and At- Deed. in that certain Warranty Deed from Edward The lien recorded in Lien Book 34, Pages 464- Legals continued such other area as designated by Order of the torney in Fact for Donald Owenby a/k/a Donald The name, address, and telephone number of Stephens to E.S. Dockery, dated April 29, 1950, 472 for the total lien amount of $8,779.48 plus on page 11B Superior Court of said county), within the legal R. Owenby Aldridge Pite, LLP, Six Piedmont the individual or entity who has full authority recorded May 19, 1950, recorded in Deed Book attorney fees and Tax Fi Fa costs of $5,700.00, hours of sale on October 6, 2026 (being the first Center, 3525 Piedmont Road, N.E., Suite 700, to negotiate, amend, and modify all terms of JJ, Page 36 (top), aforesaid Records. plus $110.63 of Fi Fa costs and accrued inter- DYER’S DEPENDABLE BRIAN WIGHT CON- SCOTT ARMSTRONG IFIXIT PC REPAIR ON THE THOMAS PAINTING INTE- M O N T G O M E RY C O N - HOME IMPROVEMENTS: STRUCTION: Specializing in HOME REPAIR: Fully GO: Call us at (706) 487-0686 RIOR/EXTERIOR. Pressure CRETE - Serving Blairsville Deck repair or replacement and Leaking Basements, Founda- Insured, Home Repairs and for Services, Price estimates, and washing. Houses, decks, drive- since 1997. Concrete, slabs, staining. Interior and exterior tion Structural Failures, Septic Renovations. Any Homeowner any questions. 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September 9, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 11B NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER made for the purpose of paying the debt and provided until final confirmation and audit of CONTINUED NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER, LEGAL ADS FROM PAGE 10B UNION COUNTY Pursuant to the Power of Sale contained in a Security Deed given by Edward Payne AKA Ed- STATE OF GEORGIA UNION COUNTY Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- tained in a Security Deed given by, Wesley all expenses of this sale including attorney’s fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees having been given). Said sale will be made subject to the follow- the status of the loan as provided above. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2, the name, address and telephone number of the person or entity who shall have full authority to nego- STATE OF GEORGIA, gia records. ward Leeland Payne to JPMorgan Chase Bank, Cook and Sara Cook, to Mortgage Electronic ing items which may affect the title to said tiate, amend, or modify all terms of the above- COUNTY OF UNION The property is conveyed subject to the recip- N.A. dated 4/30/2022 and recorded in Deed Registration Systems, Inc., as grantee, as property: All restrictive covenants, easements described mortgage is as follows: NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PER COURT rocal easement and operating agreement re- Book 1312 Page 362 Union County, Georgia nominee for Cardinal Financial Company, and rights-of-way appearing of record, if any; Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, 500 N. ORDER corded in Deed Book 769, Pages 717-743 and records; as last transferred to or acquired by Limited Partnership, dated 3/28/2022, and all zoning ordinances; matters which would State College Blvd., Suites 1030, 1300 & 1400 On August 26, 2026, per court order of Honor- Deed Book 821, Pages 248-275, Union County, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, recorded on 3/30/2022, in Book 1306, Page be disclosed by an accurate survey or by an Orange, CA 92868 , Telephone No.: 800-561able Judge Joy Parks of Union County Superior Georgia Records. conveying the after-described property to se- 376, Union County, Georgia Records, as last inspection of the property; all outstanding or 4567 Court, the property of Sharnise Monique Mon- The property is conveyed subject to the right cure a Note in the original principal amount of assigned to as last assignment to Carrington unpaid bills and assessments for street im- The foregoing notwithstanding, nothing in roe and Grady Monroe III identified as Lot 42 of Way to Union County, Georgia as recorded $135,200.00, with interest at the rate specified Mortgage Services, LLC by assignment record- provements, curbing, garbage, water, sewage O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2 shall be construed to Owen Glen subdivision land lots 80, 100, 101, in Deed Book 192, Page 162, Union County, therein, there will be sold by the undersigned ed 4/16/2026 as Instrument No. D2026-001763 and public utilities which may be liens upon require Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC to 116, and 117; and Tax parcel 052018B42 was Georgia records. at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash in book 1449, Page 760, conveying the after said property; and any outstanding taxes, negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the Ordered to be sold on the courthouse steps of Grantor grants to Grantee, their successors, before the Courthouse door of Union County, described property securing the payment of a assessments and other liens superior to the Security Deed described herein. Union County. The civil action file number is heirs and assigns a non-exclusive, perpetual, Georgia (or such other area as designated by Note in the amount of $379,335.00 with inter- security deed being foreclosed hereby. To the Please be advised that the trustee may require SUCV2026000158JP. The court order of Judge ingress/egress, utilities and access easement Order of the Superior Court of said county), est thereon as set forth therein. best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, entity or trust bidders at this trustee’s sale to Parks entered an order for Default Judgment along and through the subdivision roads as within the legal hours of sale on October 6, NOW, THEREFORE, notice is hereby given that the above-described property is in the posses- provide information, documentation and/or and Judicial Foreclosure ordering the sale of depicted on the above-referenced survey. 2026 (being the first Tuesday of said month the entire indebtedness has been declared sion of the borrower and/or other persons with certification of the vesting instructions and Lot 42 in Owen Glen subdivision by virtue of A copy of the court order and this advertise- unless said date falls on a Federal Holiday, in due and payable as provided in said Secu- the consent and acquiescence of the borrower. the data required to be reported pursuant to unpaid dues and assessments and a foreclo- ment as presented to the publisher of this le- which case being the first Wednesday of said rity Deed by the Holder, and by virtue of the Except to the extent that the Holder may bind FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of sure of the land described in Deed Book 935, gal gazette has been sent by certified mail to month), the following described property: Tax power of sale and authority vested in it, will on and obligate Mortgagors to warrant title to the residential real property to covered transfer- Pages 293-294 on March 27, 2013 (per the le- the debtors at least thirty (30) days prior to the ID Number(s): 051 012 A19 Land situated in the 10/6/2026 sell at public outcry to the highest Property under the terms of the Security Deed, ees on or after March 1, 2026. The required gal description set forth below). By virtue and date of the foreclosure sale, if this foreclosure County of Union in the State of GA ALL THAT bidder for cash: 65 Courthouse Street, Blairs- conveyance of the Property shall be made information must be provided to the trustee authority of the court’s order, the court hereby is on the dwelling of the debtor at the time the TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING AND BEING ville, Georgia, the following described property without any representations or warranties before a deed under power will be issued for orders the sale by the undersigned at public COURT ORDERED FORECLOSURE OF LIEN was IN THE 9TH DISTRICT, 1ST SECTION, LAND LOT situated in Union County, Georgia, to wit: whatsoever, express or implied. All sales are covered transfers. The Buyer may be required outcry to the highest bidder, for cash, after given all in accordance with O.C.G.A. §44- 82 OF UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA, CONTAINING ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LY- “as is”, “where is’. to pay charges associated with the gathering proper advertisement before the courthouse 14-162, et. seq. (this foreclosure is not on the 3.351 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AND BEING LOT ING AND BEING LAND LOT 266, 9TH DISTRICT, The entire purchase price is due and payable and reporting of information to FinCEN. Addidoor of Union County, Georgia within the legal dwelling of the debtor but on a lot only with no 19 OF IVY LOG ESTATES, PHASE I, AS SHOWN 1ST SECTION, UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA, CON- at the conclusion of the auction in the form of tional information regarding these regulations hours of sale on the first Tuesday in October home or improvements). ON A PLAT OF SURVEY BY ROCHESTER & AS- TAINING A TOTAL OF 1.700 ACRES AND BE- certified funds. Insufficient funds will not be and the required transferee information and 2026, the same being October 6, 2026, the fol- The lien recorded in Lien Book 34, Pages 559- SOCIATES, INC., RS#2653, DATED OCTOBER 16, ING SHOWN AS TRACT 1 CONTAINING (1.571 accepted. Amounts received in excess of the certifications can be found at: lowing described property, to-wit: 566 for the total lien amount of $5,655.30 plus 1997 AND RECORDED IN UNION COUNTY RE- ACRES), AND TRACT II, CONTAINING (.129 winning bid will be refunded to the success- https://www.federalregister.gov/docu- All that tract or parcel of land lying and be- attorney fees and Tax Fi Fa costs of $6,091.99, CORDS IN PLAT BOOK 38, PAGES 224-225. SAID ACRE), AS PER PLAT OF SURVEY BY B. KEITH ful purchaser. This property is being sold with ments/2024/08/29/2024-19198/anti-moneying in Land Lots 80, 100, 101, 116 & 117, 9th plus $1,250.27 of Fi Fa costs and accrued in- PLAT IS INCORPORATED HEREIN, BY REFER- ROCHESTER AND ASSOCIATES, INC. RS#1534 express reservation that the sale is subject laundering-regulations-for-residential-real- District, 1st Section, Union County, Georgia, terest resulting in a total Judgment amount of ENCE HERETO, FOR A FULL AND COMPLETE DE- DATED NOVEMBER 17, 1994 AND RECORDED to 1) confirmation and audit of the status of estate-transfers and https://www.fincen.gov/ and being Lot Forty-Two (42) containing 2.129 $12,997.56, which is the DEFAULT JUDGMENT SCRIPTION OF THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROP- IN PLAT BOOK 32, PAGE 167, UNION COUNTY, the loan by the holder of the security deed, 2) rre-faqs#D_5 acres, more or less, as shown on a plat of sur- amount. The said lien has been foreclosed ERTY. AND ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF GEORGIA RECORDS. confirmation that the sale is not prohibited Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC as Attorney vey by Cleveland & Cox Land Surveying, LLC, upon and is ordered and declared due because LAND LYING AND BEING IN THE 9TH DISTRICT, Tax Parcel ID: 070D-026 under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, 3) procedures in Fact for Wesley Cook and Sara Cook dated 11/20/09, as recorded in Plat Book 63, of non-payment thereof and the court ordered 1ST SECTION, LAND LOT 82 OF UNION COUNTY, Being real property commonly known as 305 for rescission of sale under O.C.G.A. Section For Foreclosure sale information please con- Pages 72-79, (“Plat”) Union County records, foreclosure by the court. This foreclosure sale GEORGIA, CONTAINING 0.348 ACRES, MORE SAW MILL ROAD BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 9-13-172.1, whereby the Deed Under Power tact Vylla Solutions, LLC, P.O. Box 3309, Anawhich description is incorporated herein by will be made for the purpose of paying the OR LESS, AND BEING LOT 19-A OF IVY LOG The debt remaining in default, this sale will be and other foreclosure documents may not be heim, California 92803, Phone: (888) 313-1969 reference and made a part hereof. court ordered judgment and all expenses of ESTATES, PHASE I, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT OF TS # 26-41591 Said property is conveyed subject to the des- this sale. The said $12,997.56 plus publication SURVEY BY ROCHESTER & ASSOCIATES, INC., THIS COMMUNICATION IS FROM A DEBT COLignated 50 foot buffer from the centerline of costs and accrued interest up to the date of DATED MAY 25, 1999 AND RECORDED IN UNION LECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY the branch as referenced on the aforesaid Plat. The property is conveyed subject to the res- sale shall be the opening bid. The entity that has full authority to negoti- COUNTY RECORDS IN PLAT BOOK 43, PAGE 218. SAID PLAT IS INCORPORATED HEREIN, BY REF- Whiskers Project INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained in that certain Warranty Deed from Mollie Ste- ate, amend, and modify all terms of this lien/ judgment with a debtor is Owen Glen Property ERENCE HERETO, FOR A FULL AND COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED “Helping N(Aug12-Sept30) PROPERTY. Commonly known as: 1347 Ivylog phens, Edward Stephens, June Stephens and Oliver Stephens, all heirs at Law of Samuel Owners’ Association, Inc. c/o J. Steve Astin Attorney at Law, Hindmon & Astin, LLC, 702 Pat Haralson Dr. P.O. Box 1869 Blairsville, GA Dr, Blairsville, GA 30512-1687 The debt se- cured by said Security Deed has been and is Community Cats” J. Stephens, deceased to E.S. Dockery, dated April 15, 1950, recorded May 19, 1950, record- 30512, (706) 970-4050, astinsteve@yahoo. hereby declared due because of, among other ed in Deed Book JJ, Page 34, Records of Union com. Please be advised that the judgment possible events of default, failure to pay the in- Every since 2003, help Spay or Neuter one cat in County, Georgia. creditor is not required by law to negotiate, debtedness as and when due and in the man- ner provided in the Note and Security Deed. Whiskers Project has been a the Community to help others The property is conveyed subject to the res- amend, or modify the terms of the judgment ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained instrument. The debt remaining in default, this sale will be dominate force in reducing the that cannot afford a donation, in that certain Warranty Deed from Edward The said property will be sold as the prop- made for the purpose of paying the same and Stephens to E.S. Dockery, dated April 29, 1950, erty of Sharnise Monique Monroe and Grady all expenses of this sale, as provided in the homeless outdoor cat popula- $50 or $100 per cat would be recorded May 19, 1950, recorded in Deed Book Monroe III. Sharnise Monique Monroe has a Security Deed and by law, including attorney’s tion through Trap, Neuter, Re- greatly appreciated. JJ, Page 36, aforesaid Records. mailing address of c/o Mitchell B. Dennison fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees The property is conveyed subject to the res- 31 Lamour Lane Palm Coast, FL 32137; and having been given). Said property is commonly turn. The phone calls for help If you want to help in ervation of flowage rights, if any, contained in Grady Monroe III has a mailing address of 37 known as 1347 Ivylog Dr, Blairsville, GA 30512 from Blairsville and Hiawassee other ways, cat food donations that certain Warranty Deed from Robert J. Butt Teal Way Boynton Beach, FL 33436; the said together with all fixtures and personal propto E.S. Dockery, Sr., dated November 19, 1956, judgment debtors herein who are, to the best erty attached to and constituting a part of said cat caretakers are daily. Our can be made through Chewy. filed for record November 26, 1956 at 11:00 of the undersigned’s knowledge and belief, property, if any. To the best knowledge and funds are limited and we need com on our Wish List for a.m., recorded in Deed Book NN, Page 418, the parties in possession thereof. The said belief of the undersigned, the party (or parties) aforesaid Records. property is known as Owen Glen Lot 42 and in possession of the subject property is (are): financial help to get to the end Whiskers Project. Volunteers The property is conveyed subject to the res- Tax map 052018B42 in Union County, Georgia Estate and/or Heirs of Edward Leeland Payne of the cat list by year end. are needed for trapping, foservation of flowage rights, if any, contained in 30512 and consisting of land only containing or tenant or tenants. JPMorgan Chase Bank, that certain Warranty Deed from Edward Ste- 2.129 acres more or less according to a plat NA is the entity or individual designated, who Our program has al- tering, fund raising and grant shall have full authority to negotiate, amend phens to E.S. Dockery, dated March 21, 1951, of survey by Cleveland & Cox Land Surveying, and modify all terms of the mortgage. JPMor- ready spayed and neutered writing. Please let your local filed for record January 1, 1957 at 10:00 a.m., LLC dated November 20, 2009 and recorded recorded in Deed Book NN, Page 457, aforesaid in Plat Book 63, Pages 72-79 of the Plat Re- gan Chase Bank, NA Homeowner’s Assistance over a hundred cats this year. Commissioners know we need Records. cords of Union County, Georgia; and the sub- Department 3415 Vision Drive Columbus, Ohio 43219 1-866-550-5705 Note, however, that The program is not a Free pro- financial grants from their The property is conveyed subject to the Blan- ject property is subject to liens, outstanding ket Easement from Ivy Log Development, LLC ad valorem taxes, and/or easements, and/or such entity or individual is not required by law gram and donations for our county budgets to help us so to Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership restrictive covenants appearing of record, if to negotiate, amend or modify the terms of the Corporation, a cooperative corporation, un- any (Note: the Plaintiff and secured creditor loan. Said property will be sold subject to: (a) services are smaller than the we can help you with spaying dated, filed for record October 4, 2006 at 11:45 Owen Glen Property Owners’ Association, Inc. any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including Vet cost. Our program is first and neutering. No more litters, Ronald is a little over a taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and a.m., recorded in Deed Book 671, Page 111, has paid the outstanding Tax Fi Fa already lev- payable), (b) unpaid water or sewage bills that come, first serve. There are no more homeless animals. year old, but sadly, the shelter aforesaid Records. ied against the property and has included the The property is conveyed subject to the Ease- Tax Fi Fa amount in the opening bid amount constitute a lien against the property whether many cats standing by waiting This will serve the public and is the only home he has rement as contained in that certain Joint Tenan- of $12,997.56). due and payable or not yet due and payable and which may not be of record, (c) the right to get sterilized. Your help is help the many homeless kitten ally known. He is an incredibly cy with Survivorship Warranty Deed from Ivy The proceeds from said sale will be used Log Development, LLC to Theodore B. Adams first to pay the total Judgment amount due of redemption of any taxing authority, (d) any needed now. Whiskers Project surrender rates to lessen the sweet, loving dog with so much and Brandy C. Adams, as joint tenants with of $12,997.56 plus additional attorney fees, matters which might be disclosed by an accu- accrued interest, and publication costs to the rate survey and inspection of the property, and is a private nonprofit organiza- intake at local shelters. Our affection to give. But lately, rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common, dated January 18, 2008, filed for re- date of sale, as prescribed therein and expens- (e) any assessments, liens, encumbrances, tion, 501(c)3 and funding is Mission is to prevent the over- we’ve started to see the sadcord January 29, 2008 at 2:30 p.m., recorded in es of the sale, with a balance, if any, to be paid zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, Deed Book 745, Page 120, aforesaid Records. over to the legal owners and debtors Sharnise and matters of record superior to the Security supported by the public. Your population of homeless kit- ness in Ronald. After waiting Deed first set out above. The sale will be con- so long for a family of his own, The property is conveyed subject to the Ease- Monique Monroe and Grady Monroe III. ducted subject to (1) confirmation that the sale tax deductible donation can tens. Follow us on Facebook, ments as conveyed in that certain Joint Ten- The sale will be conducted subject (1) to con- he is beginning to become deancy with Survivorship Warranty Deed from firmation that the sale is not prohibited under is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy be made online, www.whis- our website whiskersproject. Ivy Log Development, LLC to Tim Hanson and the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final con- Code; and (2) final confirmation and audit of pressed. Maybe the next person the status of the loan with the holder of the kersproject.org or by mailing org, email info@whiskerspro- Linda Hanson, as joint tenants with rights of firmation and audit of the status of the Judg- who walks through our doors survivorship and not as tenants in common, ment Lien and court order entered by the Union Security Deed. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. Section a check payable to Whiskers ject.org and 1-888-872-9330. dated November 5, 2008, filed for record No- County Superior Court. 9-13-172.1, which allows for certain proce- will be the person Ronald has vember 6, 2008 at 11:30 a.m., recorded in Deed The undersigned is attempting to collect the dures regarding the rescission of judicial and Project, PO Box 575, Blairs- Your kindness is greatly ap- Book 779, Page 441, aforesaid Records. debt and any information obtained will be non-judicial sales in the State of Georgia, the ville, GA 30514. If you can preciated. NT(Sep9,Z3)CA been waiting for. The property is conveyed subject to the Grant used for that purpose. Deed Under Power and other foreclosure docuof Flowage Easement from Charles S. Mauney The Plaintiff and judgment creditor and ments may not be provided until final confir- mation and audit of the status of the loan as to United States of America, dated December 30, 1941, filed for record December 30, 1941, recorded in Deed Book EE, Page 427, aforesaid secured creditor pursuant to this lien and foreclosure of this lien, Owen Glen Property Owners’ Association, Inc., is represented by J. provided immediately above. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as agent and At- Pets Records. Steve Astin Attorney at Law, Hindmon & Astin, torney in Fact for Edward Payne AKA Edward The property is conveyed subject to the Covenants and Restrictions recorded in Deed Book LLC, 702 Pat Haralson Dr. Blairsville, GA 30512, P.O. Box 1869, (706) 970-4050, astinsteve@ Leeland Payne Aldridge Pite, LLP, Six Pied- mont Center, 3525 Piedmont Road, N.E., Suite 700, Atlanta, Georgia 30305, (404) 994-7400. of the 657, Pages 152-164; Deed Book 744, Pages 85- yahoo.com. 94; Deed Book 769, Pages 649-716 as amended in Deed Book 774, Pages 499-510; and Deed Book 821, Pages 276-335, as amended in Deed J. Steve Astin Attorney for Owen Glen POA, Inc. Ga Bar No. 026198 1031-747A THIS LAW FIRM MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE Week Book 932, Pages 726-731, Union County Geor- N(Sept9,16,23,30) USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. 1031-747A N(Sept9,16,23,30) Candy is a staff and vol- unteer favorite. She’s thick, she’s full of kisses and looking to be your one true love. Through September 30th - Cats are $50 and Kittens are $75. We have all shapes and sizes! info@castoffpetres- Meet Tom Tom, a hand- cue.org NT(Sep9.Z9)CA some 6-month-old boy who is ready to trade shelter life for a home of his very own. His dreams are pretty simple—a cozy place to nap, plenty of love, and of course, an endless supply of tuna and catnip! Mountain Shelter Hu- mane Society’s Adoption Center, Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. NT(Sep9,Z10)CA ARFS: Give Your Pain Purpose If you have lost a dearly to ARFS, P.O. Box 972, Hia- loved pet and your heart is wassee, GA 30546 or on ARFS grieving, why not “give your website (www.arfs-inc.org) by pain purpose” by making a clicking the DONATE button. donation to Animal Rescue Please indicate that your dona- Financial Support (ARFS) in tion is a memorial and provide Meet Gizmo! At al- honor of your cherished fur the name of your pet. Memori- most 2 yo, Gizmo is proof friend. als will be posted on ARFS’s that physical limits can’t di- ARFS will use your do- website, unless you request minish a big heart. He has a nation to provide medical care otherwise. spinal condition affecting his for an animal that is suffering Let’s not forget that hind legs, but he doesn’t let that stop him. Gizmo thrives 99 $4 and has an owner who cannot precious pet that gave you so afford veterinary expenses. much joy. Let’s give your pain with routine, clear boundar- Memorials can be made purpose! NT(Sep9,Z2)CA ies, and a gentle, adult-only home. He’s fully vetted and per ream of 500 sheets neutered—just waiting for that Gail Chambers and Sue Wall special person to choose him! Appalachian Duplicate $49 finished a close second with a Bridge Club News 99 On Monday, August score of 31.5. All winners re- ceived points toward their Life Master status. 31st, five and one half tables of the Appalachian Duplicate The group plays every Bridge Club played a Howell Monday and Thursday at the movement at the Clay County Clay County Senior Center Senior Center in Hayesville, beginning at 12:30 p.m. All NC. Frank Fulford and Joe interested bridge players are Wald claimed first place hon- invited to join in on the fun. ors with a score of 70.88. There If you need information about was a tie for second/third the games or a partner, please places among Gail Chambers contact Ray Ferree at 850- and Jim Bell and George and 384-3642 or email him at ray- Victoria Tucker. Both teams gfer1430@gmail.com. had a score of 65.81. Fourth Mia is a sweet, affec- place went to Andrea Pierson and David Hart with a score of 62.0. Fifth place went to Joyce BINGO tionate young cat who has raised a beautiful litter of kit- tens and is finally ready for her Geiger and Sue Wall with a Pat Haralson Civic Center own turn in the spotlight. De- score of 60.75. 165 Wellborn Street spite a rough start, she loves On Thursday, September Blairsville, GA everyone she meets, leaning in 3rd, three full tables played a Every Wednesday for pets and purring constantly. Howell movement as they cel- Mia is social, unfazed by other ebrated Lucy Kizirian’s birth- Doors Open - 6 PM cats, and thrives in a loving day with cake. Joe Wald and Games Start - 7 PM environment. Mia is fully vac- Jim Bell claimed first place Benefits cinated, vetted, spayed, and honors with a score of 32.0. ready for her forever home. Castoff Pet Rescue NT(Sep9,Z21)CA
Page 12B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS September 9, 2026 Fun-filled Labor Day Weekend with the Blairsville Cruisers The Blairsville Cruisers had a fantastic weekend kickoff at Saturday’s monthly Cruise-In at the Union County Farmers Market. Despite the summer heat, we had a tremendous turnout with nearly 70 registered cars! It was a fun-filled day for everyone involved. We were thrilled to present two Club Choice Chris Broomfield with Gail Eberle, Club Member Awards. Our first winner was Chris Broomfield of Hayesville, NC, showcasing a stunning 1933 Ford Coupe. Our second winner was Rick Wright of Mineral Bluff, GA, with a spectacular 1968 Chevy C10. Additionally, Russ & Gail Eberle took home the prize as the winners of our EXPERIENCE: SHOW: 4 - 6 PM 6 PM 50/50 raffle. Congratulations to all our winners! Despite another scorching hot Sunday, we had an incredible turnout of 60 cars at the Union County Nursing Home Fall Cruise-In! A huge thank you to everyone who came out. The residents were absolutely thrilled to see all the classic vehicles, and many loved sharing nostalgic stories Rick Wright with Gail Eberle, Club Member 296 Blue Ridge Street from their heyday when these cars were brand new. The residents cast their Crafters and Vendors votes and selected a stunning 1960 Corvette as the show winner! Congratulations to Rene Dequesada of Blairs- WANTED ville, GA, the proud owner of this beautiful classic. This upcoming weekend the Blairsville Cruisers will attend the Memories of Metal car show at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee this Friday and Saturday, September 11–12. Don’t miss a massive lineup of pre-1965 for t he classics, custom builds, and awesome vendors. See you there! Win Big with the 2006 Gail Eberle, Club Member with Gary Vandergriff, 50/50 Manager In d i a n Raffle Truck: This year’s raffle features a pristine 2006 Ford Ranger FX4 with less than m e r Sum 20,000 original miles. For a $10 donation, tickets now offer three chances to win: Grand Prize: The Ford Ranger FX4 OR $5,000 Cash; Second Prize: $1,000 Cash; Third Prize: $500 Cash. How to Enter: Buying tickets is easier than ever. Pur- Fest i v a l chase online at BlairsvilleCruisers.com via credit/debit card or visit local partners United Community Bank and October 3rd Batteries Plus+ in Blairsville. Rene Dequesada with Mickey Lince, Club VP Tickets are also available from children and veterans. Pro- school students. any club member and at all ceeds fund vital programs like The Blairsville Cruisers live events. “Shop with a Cruiser,” “Shop is a 501(c)(3) non-profit orga- and October 4th Cruising for a Cause: with a Cop,” and “Shop with a nization dedicated to the pres- Every ticket serves a higher Hero,” ensuring no child goes ervation of classic automotive purpose. Since 2007, The without during the holidays. culture and the support of chil- Blairsville Cruisers have Additionally, the club awards dren and Veterans in Union, raised an average of $50,000 three annual scholarships Towns, Clay and Cherokee annually to support local to local technical and trade Counties. Deadline September 19th 706-973-0289 OFFICIAL NOTICE NOTICE OF RELOCATED AND RESCHEDULED COUNTY MEETINGS FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2026 The monthly meetings of the Union County Commission will still be held on the third Thursday of each month for the remainder of 2026, with the exception of the September meeting. All meetings will be held at 9:30 a.m. in the Union County Sports Center located at 519 Industrial Blvd., Blairsville, GA 30512. The dates for the remainder of 2026 are as follows: September 22 ~ October 15 ~ November 19 ~ December 17 Meetings are open to the public, and all interested parties are encouraged to attend. Individuals with disabilities who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in these meetings, or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meetings, or the facilities are required to contact the County Clerk at 706-439-6000 promptly to allow Union County to make reasonable accommodations for those persons.