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, August 5, 2026 Christian Learning Center debuts new class Aug. 5 News Special w i t h b u s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n lines are contributing and toward graduation just as they T h i s f a l l s e m e s t e r, provided from the school to assisting, including Harmony would band class, auto shop or the Union County Christian the classroom in the Penland Grove Baptist, House of Prayer, weightlifting. Learning Center will offer a building, behind the Nazarene Blairsville Church of the The Appalachian Bible class to Union County Church half a mile from the Nazarene, Grace Presbyterian, Christian Leadership Council High School students grades school. Ve r t i c a l C h u r c h , C o o s a Board of Directors includes Jim 9-12 for elective credit toward T h e S c h o o l B o a r d Methodist, Blairsville First Yohe, President of the Vietnam local graduation requirements. approved releasing students Baptist, Fellowship of the Veterans of America local Students may add t o t a k e t h e o ff - c a m p u s , Hills and the local Gideon’s chapter; Gary Meir, retired this class through “drop/ privately funded class. All organization. missionary to Ecuador and add” up to and on the first costs associated with the class This program began after former school board member; day of class Wednesday, Aug. are paid by the Appalachian several local residents formed Dr. Bob Louder, retired USAF 5, by contacting the school Christian Leadership Council a non-profit corporation, Lt. Colonel and former Chair of FRXQVHORU·V RIÀFH DQG JHWWLQJ Inc., including curriculum, the Appalachian Christian the Board of Regents at Aidan a parental permission form classroom space, the instructor, Leadership Council Inc., University; Helen Partridge, signed. The class will be liability coverage, and a private with the purpose of bringing retired teacher with a Master’s offered during the third-block EXV GULYHQ E D FHUWLÀHG EXV Released-Time Bible Education Degree in Education from class period. driver. The program maintains (RTBE) to Towns, Union and the University of Georgia The class is a survey student safety by always having Clay Counties. and former board member of of the Bible designed to be a second adult present with With parental the Augusta Georgia RTBE interesting and understandable the teacher and students at all permission, the program allows Program; Shannon Watson, Meagan Kough is the program teacher for the brand-new for those with or without much times. students to take an off-campus CEO of Georgia Baptist Christian Learning Center, which will serve students of Union prior Bible knowledge. The M a n y o f t h e l o c a l faith-based Bible class and Retirement Communities County Schools with an elective Bible class. She is pictured class is offered off campus, churches across denominational receive local elective credit See Christian Learning, Page 2A here at the off-campus Penland Hall instruction site. 6SHDNHULQVSLUHVWHDFKHUV Habitat’s Panther House 3 before school year begins ready for family move-in %%ULWWDQ+ROEURRNV %%ULWWDQ+ROEURRNV North Georgia News North Georgia News Staff Writer Staff Writer To inspire greatness YOUNG HARRIS – among teachers – and by Panther House 3, placed at its proxy, their students – Union ÀQDOORFDWLRQRQ*XPORJ5RDG County Schools welcomed about a year and a half ago, will staff members to the annual now go by a different name – Welcome Back Convocation the Wimberly Family Home. on July 31, with breakfast from Built in partnership with &KLFNÀO$ FRXUWHV RI 5LYHU Union County High School City Bank and some inspiring Construction Pathway students, words of wisdom to start the the house was part of the Habitat new school year right. for Humanity Homeownership “‘Success for All’ – that Program. includes you,” pointed out According to www. Superintendent Dr. John Hill, habitat.org, eligible families addressing the teachers and must be in need of safe, staff that gathered in the Union affordable housing; fall within County Fine Arts Center before the low-to-moderate income Jerry Helton administered an bracket; be willing to partner invocation. with Habitat through “sweat Towns/Union Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Matt Hill then recognized equity," that is, helping build Donnelly with new Habitat homeowner Dylan Wimberly on individual departments, their own home or that of Friday, July 31. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks including but not limited others; and be able and willing GRZQWRWKHÀQDOIDPLOLHV “It was a little to educators, principals, to pay an affordable mortgage. we actually go out to see their RYHUZKHOPLQJDWÀUVWWDNLQJRQ administration, lunchroom 0RWLYDWLRQDO VSHDNHU .HYLQ $WODV OHIW FDOOHG :HLJKW “Obviously, they have living conditions, and then we the role of the executive director. and nutrition management, Training Coach Curtis Turner to the stage for a fun audience to have a steady income. They make our final judgment on It’s a lot of responsibility,” sanitation, transportation, SDUWLFLSDWLRQ PRPHQW LQ )ULGD·V ZHOFRPHEDFN HYHQW IRU have to have decent credit, who really needs it the worst.” said Donnelly, who admitted maintenance, technology and schoolteachers. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks qualify for a mortgage, but then July 31 was actually the process was made more even the Union County School convocation just before the new Special Olympics and playing also, it comes down to necessity D o n n e l l y ’s f i r s t h o u s e GLIÀFXOWEDODFNRIYROXQWHHUV Board. All groups met with VFKRRO HDU EHJLQV ,Q in the NCAA as a legendary of needing a home,” explained dedication. It felt fitting, N o r m a l l y, a f t e r t h e applause. that honor went to Kevin Atlas, basketball player. Towns/Union Habitat for considering all the work he students complete the house Each year, a motivational who has earned honors such Atlas was overcoming Humanity Executive Director put in alongside the head of the up to the “rough” stage, speaker is invited to attend the as serving on the board of the See Atlas Speaks, Page 6A Matt Donnelly. “When we get Wimberly family. See Panther House, Page 7A Scientists showcase research during GMREC Field Day By Daysha Pandolph North Georgia News Staff Writer The Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center opened its gates to the public on Wednesday, July 22, for its biennial Field Day, giving attendees a chance to learn about the agricultural research taking place there directly from the scientists conducting it. The program lasted from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and featured guided tram tours across the center’s 415-acre property with stops at multiple research sites. At each stop, University of Georgia scientists and Extension specialists gave brief presentations on their research involving corn, sweet sorghum, beer hops, tomatoes, The Experiment Station welcomed 90 visitors for its biennial Field Day, an event that gives community members an opportunity to learn about local apples, soybeans, muscadines agricultural research. Photo by Daysha Pandolph and turf grass. past the Experiment Station Daniel Mailhot, director soil and favorable growing about his ongoing research into r e s e a r c h e r s a r e w o r k i n g “So, part of our mandate regularly, few actually know of UGA’s statewide variety conditions. sweet sorghum, a traditional alongside the U.S. Department is to have a Field Day,” said about the research happening testing program, was the “In a lot of ways, what Appalachian crop used to make of Agriculture to develop sweet GMREC Superintendent Ray there. He said events like Field first researcher to speak. He you see here is what you’d see syrup. sorghum varieties that are Covingon. “A Field Day is Day help to unveil the mystery. explained the importance of in just a truly remarkable year Williams said sweet resistant to the aphid. He said a time when we open this “I’m excited to show you evaluating corn hybrids under somewhere else or if you did sorghum has been at risk for their research also focuses on place up to the general public what we’re about, what we do different growing conditions to a remarkable job of irrigating roughly a decade, ever since the increasing the plants’ sugar and they can engage with our here,” Covington said to those help farmers determine which it,” Mailhot said. “We really sorghum aphid appeared in the content. scientists and learn a little JDWKHUHG PHPEHUV RI WKH varieties perform best in their appreciate the opportunity to United States and began wiping “The results of this trial bit about the agriculture, the public attended, coming from region. get to do our research here.” RXWFURSVLQWKHHDUOV are very promising,” Williams industry and the projects that all over the state and some from According to Mailhot, U n i o n a n d To w n s As he passed around said. “I came out here and we support.” North Carolina. “This is your the Blairsville testing location County Agriculture and Natural samples of homemade sorghum checked yesterday; I didn’t Covington explained that time, your moment, to see what is one of his favorites because Resources Extension Agent syrup for guests to try, Williams really see any sorghum aphids.” while many residents drive we’re about.” of its exceptionally fertile Jacob Williams spoke next explained that he and other See GMREC Field Day, Page 7A Vol. 117 No. 33 PSA: Watch Out for Federal Jury Summons Scam See Page 2A Arrests - 8A .GICNU$ Church - 2B Obits - 4B 6KULQHUV*XQV'DV5DIÁH7LFNHWV2Q6DOH See Page 8B %NCUUKČGFU$ Sports - 10A Opinion - 4A Mountain Coin Club Meeting to Feature Trivia 8/11 See Page 8A 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
Page 2A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 Healthy Minds for Better Lives, Inc. )HGHUDO-XU6XPPRQVVFDPPDNLQJWKHURXQGV Residents are advised to Serious Risks of Kratom be on guard against a Federal Did you know Kratom is associated with addiction, seizures, liver injury and Jury Summons scam. death? It has been detected in overdose deaths, including cases where it was the The North Georgia only substance. Kratom may cause cardiac toxicity and sudden death. It can also News has received multiple cause neonatal opioid withdrawal. Kratom should be regulated as a schedule emails from scammers claim- 1 drug. This should not be sold over the counter, promoted as a natural tea or remedy to help yourself. It has contamination risks such as lead and other ing to represent the U.S. Dis- heavy metals, is linked to salmonella outbreaks, and has unpredictable potency WULFW&RXUW)HGHUDO-XU2IÀFH and dosing because it’s not regulated by the FDA. JUST SAY NO... to Kratom. The scam attempts to Reference: http://kratomdangerawareness.org lure recipients into clicking a healthymindsamerica.wixsite.com/healthy-minds link box to “resolve” a failure to respond to a mailed federal jury summons. “Please be advised that failure to respond to a jury summons is a serious of- fense and may be viewed as contempt of court,” the scam reads. “This could result in further legal action if not ad- dressed promptly. To resolve WKLV PDWWHU DQG IXOÀOO RXU civic obligation, you should contact a court clerk virtually as soon as possible.” People should be sure not to click on any links in such emails and instead seek JXLGDQFHIURPRIÀFLDOVRXUFHV According to https:// www.uscourts.gov/, the of- ÀFLDO ZHEVLWH RI WKH )HGHUDO Courts of the United States: “In the communica- tions, recipients are pressured WR SURYLGH FRQÀGHQWLDO GDWD potentially leading to identity theft and fraud. The scammers WKUHDWHQ UHFLSLHQWV ZLWK ÀQHV and jail time if they do not comply. These communica- tions are fraudulent and are not connected with the U.S. courts. “ P e r s o n s r e c e i v i n g courts may be found through phone call or email. “Jury duty is a vital civ- such a telephone call or email the Federal Court Finder. You “Most contact between a ic responsibility and should be should not provide the request- may also report a scam or sus- federal court and a prospective taken seriously by all citizens. ed information and should im- picious communications to the juror will be through the U.S. However, it is a crime for any- mediately notify the Clerk of Federal Trade Commission. mail, and any phone or email one to falsely represent them- &RXUW·VRIÀFHRIWKH86'LV- “Federal courts do not FRQWDFW E UHDO FRXUW RIÀFLDOV VHOIDVDIHGHUDOFRXUWRIÀFLDO trict Court in their area. Con- require anyone to provide any will not include requests for The federal Judiciary takes tact information for federal sensitive information in a tele- any sensitive information. such offenses seriously.” The history of “Sweet Sorghum in the Mountains” Sweet sorghum is any of the declining availability of have a considerable economic the many varieties of the sor- farm labor, sorghum syrup impact. Frank ghum grass whose stalks have production fell drastically. Since sorghum cane a high sugar content. Sweet Currently, less than 1 million juice is purged of impurities Riley sorghum thrives better under US gallons are produced an- and then concentrated by an drier and warmer conditions nually in the U.S. Sweet sor- open pan evaporation process, Executive than many other crops and is ghum syrup has shown good its syrup retains almost all of Director grown primarily for forage, si- antioxidant properties and is its nutrients and sugars. This is of RC&D Authorized Dealer lage, and syrup production. found to be useful in food, excellent news for health en- Sweet sorghum syrup was beverage, and pharmaceuti- thusiasts because the roots of ghum in the Mountains.” The sometimes known as “short cal industries. Most sorghum the sorghum cane grow deep video explores the history of sweeting”. grown for syrup production into the soil, tapping into trace sorghum production in Union Sweet sorghum has is grown in Alabama, Arkan- minerals that are seldom found County and features Union been widely cultivated in the sas, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, to such levels elsewhere, County Sole Commissioner, 86 VLQFH WKH V IRU XVH Mississippi, North Caroli- thereby making sorghum’s Harold Collins, Union County in sweeteners, primarily in na, Missouri, and Tennessee. nutrients especially valuable retired County Agent Mickey the form of sorghum syrup. In Sorghum syrup and hot bis- for our bodies. In fact, one Cummings, and Terry Hughes Serving the Area Since 1983 WKHHDUOVWKH $PHULFDQ cuits are a traditional break- tablespoon of unsulfured sor- a lifelong sorghum grower Civil War not only disrupted fast in the Southern United ghum syrup will provide you and producer in Young Har- both interstate and maritime States. Sorghum syrup is also ZLWK FDORULHVDQG JRI ris. The video was produced commerce but also diverted used on pancakes, cornmeal sugar (which is quite high but by HistoryBend.org that is a Hours: 9-5 Closed Wed. & Sun. commodities from civilian to mush, grits and other hot ce- should be expected of a sugary digital storytelling project and military purchases; these fac- reals. It can be used as a cook- SURGXFW 5'$RIFDOFLXP media site called There’s His- 2711 Blairsville Hwy., Murphy NC. 28906 tors rendered some food and ing ingredient with a similar 5'$ RI LURQ 5'$ ÀEHUVXSSOLHVLQFOXGLQJ VXJDU sweetening effect as molas- RI PDJQHVLXP 5'$ RI tory Around Every Bend, cre- ated by Emmy Award-winning cane and the sugar and molas- ses, though blackstrap molas- SRWDVVLXP 5'$ RI YL- ÀOPPDNHU DQG DXWKRU 6WHYH 828.837.8611 ses made from it, unreliable ses still has a higher nutrition- WDPLQ % DQG 5'$ RI and expensive. In particular, al value than sorghum syrup manganese. Procko. The site explores overlooked local history, hid- the South was under naval in most regards. Chestatee-Chattahooch- den landmarks, and forgotten blockade by the Union navy, The crop is particularly ee RC&D donated a Golden regional narratives through making importation of Ca- suitable for growing in dry- 1HZ VRUJKXP PLOO ·V VKRUW ÀOPV GRFXPHQWDU YLG- PART-TIME ribbean cane sugar and mo- land conditions, as it only ex- and cooking pan, to Hardman lasses expensive and scarce tracts one-seventh of the water Farms in Helen that they use eos, and written articles. The video will be shown via blockade running. Under used by sugarcane. A study by to process the sorghum grown IRU WKH ÀUVW WLPH RQ 6HSWHP- HELP WANTED these conditions, some farms researchers at the International right there on the property, and grew sweet sorghum for syrup Crops Research Institute for also donated a mill, cooking ber 15, at a reception at the Vickery House at North Geor- Towns County Herald to substitute for cane sugar the Semi-Arid Tropics found pan, and shed to house it to the gia University and later at a and molasses, which helped that growing sweet sorghum Union County Farmers Market workshop on how Sweet Sor- sweet sorghum become part instead of grain sorghum could so visitors can see how sweet ghum is made, and a Cooking of Southern food culture. increase farmers’ incomes by sorghum syrup was made by with Sorghum event in Union Office Assistance % WKH HDUO V 86 SHU KHFWDUH SHU FURS our ancestors and even to- WKH 86 SURGXFHG PLO- because it can provide food, day in operations in our area. County. Information on these lion US gallons of sweet sor- feed, and fuel. With grain sor- Chestatee programs and a link to the Ad Salesperson ghum syrup annually. Mak- ghum currently grown on over Chattahoochee recently ing syrup from sorghum is 11 million ha in Asia and on obtained a grant from Geor- video will be available soon on the Union County web site News Reporter heavily labor-intensive. Fol- 23.4 million ha in Africa, a gia Humanities to produce a lowing World War II, with switch to sweet sorghum could short video called “Sweet Sor- and at www.ChestChattrcd. org. Send resume to northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail.com Christian Learning ...from Page 1A newsjarrard@gmail.com (Ignite Living Inc.); and Jeff will continue in its fourth Christian Leadership Council resources (taxpayer funds or stop by the Langley, local District Attorney semester this year in Towns is also starting a middle school are used. Released Time i for Towns, Union, Lumpkin, County. program in Clay County, North privately funded – by churches North Georgia News office and White Counties. This fall semester in Carolina, this fall. It will be community organizations, and at 266 Cleveland Street, 7KHÀUVWFODVVHVRIIHUHG Union County, the class offered taught by Dawn Daily, an or individuals. Blairsville, GA 30512 began in Towns County in will be an overview of the Old experienced middle school RTBE is new in Union -DQXDUDQGWKHSURJUDP Testament and its relationship teacher with her undergraduate County but is not a new or nove to the books of the New in Bible Education from concept. This has been done in Save the Date: AUGUST MEETING Testament. It incorporates the Columbia Bible College Fannin County for more than history, culture and geography and a Master ’s Degree in HDUVDQGWKHUHDUHFXUUHQWO of the Bible as well as the Apologetics from Liberty similar programs in Gilmer spiritual, and inspirational University. Pickens and White Counties a content. Some have asked how well as hundreds of countie The Council Board was this is legal under the separation nationwide. excited to hire Meagan Kough of church and state concept. In Any individual, busines as the Union program teacher. the case of Zorach v. Clauson, or church that wants to donate She has an undergraduate the U.S. Supreme Court volunteer or ask questions can degree in World Missions with said released-time religious visit https://appalachianclc a Music minor and a Master’s instruction during the public org/. People may also contac Degree in Theology from school day is legal when three -HII/DQJOHDWMHIÁDQJOH# Truett-McConnell University. things are in place: gmail.com. Sunday, August 16, 2026 • 3 PM - 5 PM She has taught academic classes at the college level as an 1) Instruction takes place off public school grounds; 2) Students/parents wanting to enroll can contact Meagan Pat Haralson Memorial Civic Center adjunct professor and served as a college level Assistant Soccer Student attendance is voluntary and with parental permission; .RXJKDWPHDJDQNRXJK#JPDLO com or see the school counselor 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA Coach. She was herself a 1st and 3) No state or federal Space is limited. Team AAC All-Conference &RQ¿UPHG*XHVW6SHDNHUV Josh McLaurin Soccer Player. Kough has extensive overseas mission experience, Correction: was alleging that Henderson “illegally wrote himself a check IRU RXW RI D 6KHULII·V Anna Purcella-Doll having served in short-term In a July 29 article titled 2IÀFHEDQNDFFRXQWµ missions in Uganda, Zambia, “Henderson case to feature However, the GBI’s 2WKHU&DQGLGDWHV,QYLWHG T h a i l a n d , E l S a l v a d o r, pre-trial hearings all week,” the original statement about its Hungary, England and Ireland. newspaper reported incorrect investigation made clear Keisha Lance Bottoms Her knowledge of the world, information regarding a GBI that “a check was written to Gary St. Lawrence and her athletic and music backgrounds, give her many investigation into the alleged illegal sale of a personal vehicle Henderson from one of the 7RZQV&RXQW6KHULII·V2IÀFH Dave Cooper ways to connect with high by Towns County Sheriff Ken bank accounts.” There was school students and share with Henderson to the Sheriff ’s no allegation that Henderson Nick Mitchell and More! them her broad knowledge of 2IÀFH wrote himself a check. the Bible. The newspaper published The newspaper regrets Gilmer County will be hosting this month’s meeting The Appalachian that the GBI investigation the error. and will bring snacks and bottled water
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3A /RFDOWUDIÀFWRLQFUHDVHDV<+&·VIDOOVHPHVWHUDSSURDFKHV Activity is ramping up IXUWKHU GHODV WUDIÀF ZLOO EH $XJ 7KH YROOHEDOO WHDP on the Young Harris College diverted to Maple Street to de- opens away at a tournament in campus in August, as the Col- crease the amount of time cars Frankfort, KY. lege welcomes students and spend on Main Street.” Many activities are their families back to campus &ODVVHV EHJLQ $XJ also open to the Young Harris Aug. 12. and campus activities will in- community, such as monthly Move-In Day is Aug. crease as well. Several events shows at the Rollins Plan- DV WKH ÀUVWHDU VWXGHQWV are planned for the students, etarium and the annual Pops arrive at YHC, where faculty, including the annual Com- on the Patio concert on Sept. staff, and student volunteers munity Resource Fair on Aug. <+&ZLOODOVRSDUWQHUZLWK will assist with unloading cars DW SP/RFDWHGLQWKH the City of Young Harris again and transporting the students’ Rollins Campus Center, the fair for the PorchFest celebration items to their rooms. Move-in allows the local community to RQ 6XQGD 6HSW IURP activities will be followed by meet with students to introduce a.m. - 5 p.m., to close out our orientation events through- them to everything Young Har- Family Weekend activities. out the weekend. Visit bit. ris has to offer the College. Read more here: https://www. OPRYHLQ WR YLHZ WKH The week prior will be youngharrisga.net/msp/page/ move-in video if your student a whirlwind of activity as stu- SRUFKIHVW is joining us! The route has dents move back to campus “The fall semester is albeen updated this year. beginning Aug. 9. Athletes ways a wonderful time here at “Move-In Day always for fall sports will move into Young Harris College,” said LQFUHDVHV WUDIÀF DURXQG WKH resident halls, so they can be- Wells. “The campus comes college. We appreciate your gin practice for the fall season. alive with students, faculty, patience and understanding, Men’s and women’s soccer and staff returning to begin especially with the impact on ZLOOEHWKHÀUVWWHDPVLQDFWLRQ the semester. And then you WUDIÀF IURP WKH RQJRLQJ URDG on campus in August, with blend in all the new students, construction project,” Wells the women defending the Den just beginning their collegiate )DFXOWVWDIIDQGVWXGHQWYROXQWHHUVDOVRNQRZQDV0RXQWDLQ/LRQ0RYHUVZLOOEHRQKDQGWRKHOSVWXsaid. “In an effort to mitigate RQ $XJ DQG PHQ SODLQJ journey.” dents move into their residence halls. UC Public Library’s August Art Exhibit featuring Gayle C. Stephenson 0LVWDNHV&DQ&RVW<RX&DOO%HIRUH<RX'LJ deep.” changes, you’ll need a new quest a dig ticket before rent- “These are some of the ticket. It’s every dig, every ing equipment or starting a most common reasons people time.” project can help prevent ser- give for not contacting 811 Georgia law requires vice outages, costly repairs, before digging,” says Megan anyone planning to dig to con- injuries, and even fatalities. Estes, Director of Corporate tact Georgia 811 at least three Georgia 811 offers sev- Communications at Georgia business days before begin- eral convenient ways to sub- “I’ve been digging here 811. “The reality is that every ning work. After a ticket is mit a locate request. Home- for years without a problem.” digging project is different. submitted, Georgia 811 noti- owners and contractors can “I know where my utili- A locate request isn’t a one- ÀHV WKH XWLOLW FRPSDQLHV WKDW submit tickets online at www. ties are - I was here when they time permit - it’s valid for one may have underground facili- Georgia811.com or simply were installed.” VSHFLÀFORFDWLRQRQHVSHFLÀF ties in the area. Those utility dial 811, the national Call Be- “I’m on a farm, so I WSHRIZRUNDQGIRURQO companies then send profes- fore You Dig number. don’t need a dig ticket.” days. If the location changes sional locators to mark the As 811 Day (August 11) “I’m not digging very or the scope of the project approximate location of their approaches, Georgia 811 re- underground lines using paint, minds everyone that whether ÁDJVRUERWK you’re planting a tree, in- “One of the biggest mis- stalling a mailbox, building conceptions is that Georgia a fence, or tackling a major 811 locates underground utili- construction project, one sim- ties,” Estes says. “Our role is ple step can make all the dif- to notify the affected utility ference: Know what’s below. companies. They are respon- Contact 811 before every dig, sible for sending their locate every time. $ CASH 4 $ technicians to mark their fa- The Union County Pub- of her grandfather, who also cilities.” lic Library’s August Art Ex- painted watercolor pieces, Before breaking ground, $ $ hibit will feature watercolor Stephenson enjoys sharing her those digging should verify WKDW DOO QRWLÀHG XWLOLW FRP- $ Antique/Barn $ artist Gayle C. Stephenson and paintings and creating joy with $ $ her brilliant paintings. her work. panies have responded to the ticket. Using the ticket num- $ Tools $ Stephenson began You can view Stephen- $ $ teaching herself to paint dur- son’s art throughout August ber, homeowners and contrac- $ Old Tractors $ tors can check ticket responses $ $ ing the pandemic, bringing joy to her friends and family during the library’s regular business hours. online or through the Georgia $ & Wagons $ by mailing them pieces of art Artists of all crafts are PRELOH DSS WR FRQÀUP $ Labosco’s at the $ as a surprise. Initially painting welcome to inquire about whether utilities have marked $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ birds and images from nature, participating in the library’s their lines. $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ The process is quick, $ $ she’s grown her craft to include architectural and travel monthly Art Exhibits by HPDLOLQJ XFSO#PRXQWDLQOL- easy, and completely free. $ 706-745-0097 $ art. Following in the footsteps brary.com. Taking a few minutes to re- CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Let’s Talk Trash Licensed Insured Now offering new septic system installs Lot Clearing, Gravel Driveways, House Sites, Long Arm Mowing, Retaining Walls, Underbrushing, Weekly Pickup Check us Erosion Control, Water Management 706-897-4065 out on tonysgarbage.com Licensed • Insured • Bonded 706-897-6066 Michelin BFG Specializing In: Alignment • Computer Balancing SHAWN’S UNDER PRESSURE OF BLAIRSVILLE,GA LLC HOME FURNISHINGS Brakes • Auto Repair Uniroyal Industrial Foam Fill Oil Changes - est. 2003 - 706 - 352 - 7266 NEW “RETRACTABLE SCREEN DOOR” INSTALLATION 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 WINDOW CLEANING PRESSURE CLEANING 706-835-1209 SCREENS Oscar Thomas - Owner (706) 745-0264 76 Shoe Factory Road Blairsville, Georgia 30512 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat 10am-3pm • Closed Sun RETRACTABLE SCREEN DOORS Southeast Geothermal & Spray Foam Interior, Exterior, Baths, Decks, Doors. 706-745-8685 Painting, Trim, Electric Water Heaters 1442 Blue Ridge Hwy. Floors & Installation www.segeothermal.com 678-677-4974 FREE Sink with purchase of any kitchen countertops! www.sesprayfoam.com 411 Plott Town Rd., Young Harris, GA Must present this ad at time of purchase LICENSED INSURED FORESTRY MULCHING HOMES, GARAGES, Tyler Silverson DECKS, BASEMENTS 706-851-3524 PLACE YOUR AD HERE! Advertise with other Local Business here in the Blairsville area! Contact Sky 391 BLUE RIDGE HWY 706-745-6343 or ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED ngnews@nganews.com
Page 4A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 Opinions Everybody has one... Staying Informed with RAVE Doom or Joy? From Your Commissioner Being prepared for disasters is important. It can save time, I learned a new word: “Doomerism.” It describes a mindset One great resource we have in Union County is our access money, property, and even your life. Part of being prepared is stay- caught in a vortex of pessimism about the way things are headed. WR/DNH1RWWHO:KHWKHURX·UHDQDYLGÀVKHUPDQDIDPLOORRNing informed on potential emergencies and disasters. Staying in- Even if those concerns prove true, you can still live a life of joy! ing to spend a relaxing afternoon on the water, or someone who formed is a joint effort between the emergency management, who This feeling of perpetual victimhood particularly affects simply enjoys the beauty of our mountain lake, our public boat provides information, and the public, who receives and uses that young adults. They have consumed enough commentary to be- ramps provide an important gateway to one of our community’s information. One way that Union County Emergency Management lieve economic, political, or environmental collapse are imminent greatest natural treasures. Agency (UCEMA) provides informa- and unavoidable. Some even choose Many folks don’t know how tion is through the alert system called Fire Dept. to eschew childbearing because why All Things many options we have for accessing Union RAVE. from Union bring a child into this mess? They New the lake. Union County is fortunate to County The RAVE systems is new and County live with their parents to save money, have several convenient boat ramps Commissioner will be replacing the CodeRED sys- Fire Chief put their hope in socialism, and re- located around Lake Nottely, giving tem that Union County had used in David duce their carbon footprint. But joy Wayne residents and visitors multiple access Harold the past. The RAVE system allows Dyer escapes them. Fowler points to enjoy boating, kayaking, Collins 8&(0$ WR SURYLGH QRWLÀFDWLRQV WKDW Joy escapes anyone who paddleboarding, water skiing, and may require immediate action (such as a boil-water notice, missing doesn’t understand it. Even the ancient Greek philosophers un- VRPHRIWKHÀQHVWÀVKLQJ1RUWK*HRUJLDKDVWRRIIHU7KHVHIDchild, weather emergencies, etc.). The system has the capability to derstood the pursuit of happiness could only be indirect. They cilities help ensure that everyone can experience the lake without deliver text, emails, and phone calls as you prefer. thought contentment and joy followed virtue, friendship, and having to own waterfront property. 7KH 5$9( VVWHP KDV VHYHUDO GLIIHUHQW WSHV RI QRWLÀFD- tranquility. They were on the right track, but wait, there’s some- Maintaining these ramps is an important responsibility. WLRQV8&(0$XVHV5$9(WRVHQG(0(5*(1&<QRWLÀFDWLRQVWR thing better! Safe, clean, and accessible launch areas don’t happen by acci- NHHSFLWL]HQVLQIRUPHGRIHPHUJHQFLHVVXFKDVHYDFXDWLRQVÀUHV A transcendent source of love, joy, and peace exists in this dent. Poteete Creek, Deaver Road, Canal Lake, and Jack’s Creek ÁRRGVFKHPLFDOVSLOOVRURWKHUHPHUJHQFVLWXDWLRQV7KH5$9( world. It is not philosophy, economics, politics, or the environ- as well as the Meeks Park Kayak Ramp – they all require regular :HDWKHU:DUQLQJDXWRPDWLFDOOQRWLÀHVFLWL]HQVLQWKHSDWKRIVH- ment. C.S. Lewis wrote, “If you want to get warm you must stand inspections, maintenance, and cooperation among Union County, vere weather just moments after a warning has been issued by the QHDUWKHÀUH LIRXZDQWWREHZHWRXPXVWJHWLQWRWKHZDWHU,I the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the Georgia Department of National Weather Service. UCEMA may also use RAVE to send you want joy, power, peace, eternal life, you must get close to, or Natural Resources. We appreciate these partnerships, which help 3XEOLF6DIHWQRWLÀFDWLRQVWRFRPPXQLFDWHQRQOLIHVDIHWPDWWHUV even into, the thing that has them.” The “thing” is, of course, He preserve these valuable recreational resources for everyone who such as planned road closures, water main repairs, water and power who has revealed Himself in three Persons. Lewis speaks of being visits our county. service interruptions, etc. united with God (by faith) and adds, “There is no other way to the The boat ramps also contribute to our local economy. Visi- RAVE does have a mobile alert app called Smart911. This happiness for which we were made.” tors who come to enjoy Lake Nottely often stop to shop in our is a free public safety app for both Android and iPhone users. The Let’s be more direct. Jesus understands tribulations and local stores, dine in our restaurants, purchase fuel and supplies, Smart911 Mobile Alert app delivers community and emergency doomerism. He knows about this fallen world that would deny the or spend the weekend in our community. Please be patient during alerts to individuals targeted within an impacted geographical area created order and forget about God. He said, “In the world you busy weekends, prepare your boat before entering the launch area, via your smartphone. have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” dispose of trash properly, and always practice safe boating. A little ,IRXKDYHQRWUHJLVWHUHGIRUQRWLÀFDWLRQVZHVWURQJOHQ- (John 16:33). He taught that abiding in Him, obedience, and love courtesy goes a long way toward making everyone’s day on the courage you to register with RAVE Smart911 to receive weather are integrally connected. Then he says, “These things I have spo- water a pleasant experience, and that includes respecting the “No DQG HPHUJHQF QRWLÀFDWLRQV 3OHDVH YLVLW KWWSV WLQXUOFRP ken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may :DNHµDUHDVRIÀFLDOOGHVLJQDWHGE79$ UnionRave to create an account and make your preferences. You be made full” (John 15:11). Our county is committed to preserving the natural beauty will be asked basic questions to complete the registration. You may Did you see what Jesus did there? He acknowledged that that makes Union County such a special place to live and visit. DOVRFRPSOHWHDVPXFKRIWKHSURÀOHDVRXDUHFRPIRUWDEOHZLWK you can have not just a life with some joy, but one full of joy! From our parks and trails to our public lake access, we want future completing. There is no charge to register or use RAVE Smart911, He didn’t say pursue happiness but pursue God and the things of generations to enjoy the same opportunities that we have today. I DQGRXUSHUVRQDOLQIRUPDWLRQZLOOEHNHSWVHFXUHDQGFRQÀGHQWLDO God. Joy comes from abiding in Him, obeying Him, and loving invite you to spend some time on Lake Nottely this season. Launch See Dyer, page 5A See Fowler, page 5A See Collins, page 5A Toxic Personality Chamber 2026 How do you recognize toxic behaviors in It’s hard to believe that this week marks a relationship? You might well be involved in the beginning of my ninth year with the Chamone without realizing it. Here are some questions ber. It all began as a retired CPA serving on the to ask yourself about your relationship: Chamber Board when the Chamber found itself 1. Do you constantly walk on eggshells in need of a President. Many of our members had around the person? 2. Do you feel emotionally previously been clients of mine, and I saw this drained after be- as an opportunity ing with them? 3. Successful to continue help- Blairsville - Union Do you value his Mental ing local businesses Health County or her opinion over grow—just from a Chamber your own? 4. Do Dr. James different perspec- President you make excuses Ray Ashurst tive. for their behavior? PH.D. 0 ÀUVW HDU Steve Rowe 5. Do you feel con- was spent learning fused about their reactions? 6. Do you wonder what it truly meant to be part of the Chamber how to proceed after interacting with them? 7. world. Then, as my second year began, we were +DYHRXORVWRXUVHOIFRQÀGHQFHEEHLQJLQ introduced to something called COVID-19. such a relationship? While many communities were shutting down, There are reasons why a toxic person is I stood at a podium and announced that Union harmful in a relationship. Toxic people can leave County was still open for business. As you might the victim exhausted and stressed due to their imagine, that decision was not popular with evself-centered, manipulative behavior. Such be- eryone, and there were moments when I felt like havior patterns can emotionally drain the other I was almost run out of town. person. However, the toxic individual can appear Fortunately, our community proved to be charming and even friendly. The toxic person is resilient. Local businesses adapted in remark- See Ashurst, page 5A See Chamber, page 5A Letters to the Editor The Hidden Danger... Weaning Off House Trees 63/2676SHFLÀFV The Hidden Danger of Standing Still The Booger at the Weaning Off House We live in an area where we are surround- Dear Editor, Most people think of failure as moving Have you ever wondered about the mag- ed by trees. One really cool thing that I forget backward. Losing ground. Making mistakes. QLWXGH RI ZKLFK HOHFWULFLW KDV LQÁXHQFHG RXU about the forests that we have is not just how This is in regards to the upcoming Watching progress unravel. But some of life’s lives? For example, I am sitting at home writing many trees, but how many different species of SPLOST item that will be on the November bal- deepest failures happen without any visible de- this article for the newspaper. The computer I am trees we have. Lots of forests around the world lot. I want to start by saying I am in support of cline at all. using requires electricity. The lights are on and are usually dominated by three or four species. taxes that help better our county for our residents A person sim- they require electric- Our forests have and visitors. I, like our commissioner claimed ply stops climbing. Echoes ity. The TV is on and Around dozens of tree spe- ZKHQKHUDQIRURIÀFHDPDOVRLQIDYRURIÀV- The job remains se- from Sinai requires electricity. The Farm cies. That biodi- “Torah for cal responsibility, which means spending money cure. The relation- Everyone” My cellphone will versity allows our Watching wisely. ships remain intact. Rabbi not operate without forests to be habitats and Working In order to fairly and realistically approve The routines contin- Yonatan electricity. Our soci- Mickey for lots of wildlife. Jacob of a proposed spend of $43 million, it would be ue. Nothing appears Hambourger ety could not main- Cummings Today let’s talk Williams YHUXVHIXOWRKDYHDOLVWRIVSHFLÀFDOOLGHQWL- obviously wrong. tain its present status about some of the ÀHGSURMHFWVDQGSURMHFWHGFRVWV,WLVPXQGHU- Yet beneath the surface, growth quietly stalls. without electricity. But, there was a time when different tree species that we have. I won’t be standing that some sort of list is either required Curiosity fades. Discipline softens. The desire people didn’t even know about electricity. able to cover them all, so I’ll talk about some of or it has been stated that some sort of list will be to become more gives way to satisfaction with My great-grandfather had four sons and my favorites. provided. I’d like to know when this list will be remaining the same. two daughters. When one of the children mar- I’ll start off with an evergreen tree, east- SURYLGHGDQGZKHUHZHZLOOEHDEOHWRÀQGLW The danger is subtle because standing still ried, that child moved into the weaning-off ern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis). These trees are Realize that generalized lists such as rarely feels dangerous. It feels safe. This ten- house next to my great-grandfather’s house. A slow growers but can reach heights of 70 feet “infrastructure improvements” or “equipment sion lies at the heart of one of the Torah’s most weaning-off house was an older house generally tall. They can grow in deep shade but will have XSJUDGHVµ DUH QRW VSHFLÀF $V D EXVLQHVVPDQ enduring images. In the Torah portion of Vay- next to the house of one’s parents. The custom more needles on them in sunlight. Their needles himself, I would expect that he would require etze (Genesis 28:12), Jacob dreams of a ladder of living in a weaning-off house allowed a child are short and have two small white stripes on See Sax, page 5A stretching from earth to heaven, with angels as- to live under the economic protection of his or the bottom. These are beautiful trees that have a • cending and descending upon it. her parents while trying to build one’s economic nice Christmas shape. One thing to know about Re: “From Your Commissioner” The image has inspired generations of VWDWXVDQGVHOIVXIÀFLHQF them is that there is an invasive insect called Dear Editor, interpretation. The sages teach that the dream Sometime around 1950 electricity came the hemlock woolly adelgid that feeds on them. occurred at the future site of the Holy Temple, to Trapptown, Alabama. At that time Papa’s These tiny insects can kill a tree, so they must be I attended the Commissioner’s meeting where heaven and earth meet. Chassidic thought youngest brother, Poggy, lived at the weaning- WUHDWHGZLWKDVVWHPLFLQVHFWLFLGHHYHUÀYHRU on July 14th and learned of another change sees the ladder as a portrait of the human soul off house. Uncle Pick, Papa’s older brother, lived more years. when answering questions from the public at and its lifelong journey toward growth, purpose, about a 1/2 mile north and west of the weaning- Buffalo nut (Pyrularia pubera) is an interthese meetings. The new rules were that we DQGUHÀQHPHQW off house. My great-grandfather, Lon, lived esting tree. It is an understory tree that is usucould ask questions, and they would be respond- Yet what makes the vision remarkable is close by as well, and very close to the weaning- ally found near creek bottoms. It looks like just ed to in the Commissioner’s “From Your Com- not only the ladder itself. It is when Jacob sees it. off house was a storm shelter. When the TVA another tree in the forest, but underneath the soil missioner” column in our newspaper. Again the Jacob is not standing at the height of suc- brought the “electricity” to Trapptown, a big line its roots will attach to other tree roots and new rule wasn’t followed at the meeting, since cess. He is not enjoying stability or accomplish- power line was erected between the weaning off take nutrients. Because it has leaves that conduct government employees stood up to answer the PHQW +H LV ÁHHLQJ KLV EURWKHU·V DQJHU +H KDV house and Uncle Pick’s house. Everyone in the photosynthesis and it has roots that take nutrients questions about the Dog Park and questions on left home. The future is uncertain. He sleeps family signed up for the electricity, and yet none it is considered a hemiparasite. Most of the time our CodeRED system. OK, well I guess rules alone in the wilderness with a stone for a pillow. of them really understood electricity. when we think of a parasite, we think that it’s are made to be broken, or used for the conve- And it is precisely there—in uncertainty, vulner- Uncle Pick had taken his turn in the a bad thing. However, in this case they play a nience of the Union County Government, not ability, and displacement—that he receives a weaning-off house, and he never liked living natural role in the ecosystem, so they should be the residents of Union County? vision of ascent. That is a lesson worth pausing in it. He said, “There was just something scary DSSUHFLDWHGQRWYLOLÀHG We get to wait 15 days for answers in the over. about that place.” Pick’s eldest daughter, Polly, We live at the southern end of sweet paper, which will now lead to more questions? Many people assume growth begins after was born sometime around 1936. On her sec- birch’s (Betula lenta) natural range, so we don’t See Shirkey, page 5A life settles down. Once the crisis passes. Once ond birthday, all the family was up the road at KDYHDVPDQRIWKHP,IRXÀQGDVZHHWELUFK • WKHÀQDQFHVLPSURYH2QFHWKHFKLOGUHQDUHROG- my great-grandfather’s house celebrating her grove in the autumn it is beautiful place to walk Eternal Choices er. Once the fear subsides. Jacob’s ladder sug- birthday. After supper the family sat around the through. As the leaves start to fall more sunlight gests otherwise. The call to grow often arrives battery-powered radio to listen to a show called starts glinting through the trees. When the wind Dear Editor, before stability does. The ladder appears in the “The War of the Worlds.” To make sure we all blows golden leaves of the sweet birch fall to the Suppose you got a job offer at a high-tech middle of the journey, not at its conclusion. And understand, let me explain. Orson Wells read this ground catching the orange sun rays. I think sitcompany who will pay you a salary of $100,000 the image itself carries a profound insight. A lad- story to a live radio audience and pretended that ting in a sweet birch grove in the fall is the closto start, and if you work hard and be faithful to der is unlike almost any other structure. You can- he was reporting the news. People all over the est that we get to the elven woodlands of Tolkthe company for 30 years, at your retirement not live on it. You cannot settle on it. You cannot USA thought we had been invaded by monsters ien’s Middle Earth. party you will receive a million dollars tax free build a permanent home on a rung halfway up. from Mars. Anyway, this event had a profound Chestnut oak (Quercus prinus) is in for being a loyal employee. Would you not jump A ladder has only one purpose: To climb. effect on my Uncle Pick that would not have an the white oak group. That means it produces at this opportunity of a lifetime? It would be a That changes the way we understand Jacob’s impact for 12 years. acorns annually. Oaks in the red oak group prodream come true. dream. The Torah is not presenting life as a des- One night in the spring of 1950 after elec- duce acorns every other year. Acorns from the God, our Creator, has come up with an tination. It is presenting life as an ascent. And on tricity had come to North Alabama, a serious white oak group tend to be less bitter, so they investment plan that pays great dividends in the a ladder, standing still is never entirely neutral. storm hit the area around Trapptown. Uncle Pick are more preferred by wildlife. Chestnut oak is here and now on earth if you accept Jesus Christ Gravity has a vote. decided to take his young family by the weaning- found throughout the Appalachian Mountains. See Combs, page 5A See Hambourger, 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
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5A Cummings...continued from Page 4A Hambourger...continued from Page 4A 38 BACKYARD LANE, HWY. 515, off house to his Dad’s house seeing the sparks, he would Anyone who has slipping away. BLAIRSVILLE NEXT TO THE BOWLING ALLEY WWW.BLAIRSVILLECINEMA.COM ZKHUH KH FRXOG ÀQG VDIHW LQ a storm shelter. As Uncle Pick WXUQEDFNKRPH+HÀQDOOJRW his nerve up and decided to climbed a ladder understands this instinctively. Maintaining Eventually, he volun- teered to mentor young entre- CINEMA 706-745-1000 Movies and/or show times are subject to change and his family walked in front of the weaning-off house, push through to the storm shel- ter. Just as he got to the wean- your position requires effort. The moment attention drifts, preneurs in his community. The work demanded effort, learn- FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 - THURSDAY, AUGUST 13 KH QRWLFHG VRPHWKLQJ ÁLQJ ing-off house, a transformer forces begin pulling in the op- ing, patience, and engagement. SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY PG13 through the air. It turned out exploded. Uncle Pick just posite direction. Within months, he seemed FRIDAY & SATURDAY: 11:00, 1:50, 3:00, 4:40, 6:00, 7:30, 9:00 to be a big piece of tin from a knew the Martians were shoot- The same is true of char- transformed. Not younger, but SUN: 11:00, 1:50, 3:00, 4:40, 6:00, 7:30 • MON: 11:00, 1:50, 3:00, 4:40, 6:00, 7:30 barn roof. But, in Uncle Pick’s ing at him, so he screamed at acter. A marriage does not re- more alive. What changed was TUES & WED: 11:00, 1:50, 3:00, 4:40, 6:00, 7:30 • THUR: SEE OUR WEBSITE state of anxiety, he imagined it his family to run for the shelter. main strong simply because not his circumstances. He start- YOUNG WASHINGTON PG13 ZDVDÁLQJVDXFHUIURP0DUV The family burst through two people once loved each ed climbing again. FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY: 12:15 Anyway, the tin landed on the the door of the storm shelter in other deeply. Friendships do Perhaps that is why Ja- MONDAY - WEDNESDAY: 12:15 power line. When the tin hit a sheer state of panic. Young not stay vibrant merely be- cob’s ladder remains such a the power line, it caused the Polly was squalling, which cause they have a long history. powerful symbol. Life is not THE ODYSSEY All Star Cast R line to short out, and sparks made all of her young cousins Skills do not remain sharp be- asking us to achieve perfection. FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY: 11:00, 2:30, 6:30 ÁHZ HYHUZKHUH 7KH WLQ already in the shelter begin to cause they were once mastered. It is asking us to keep ascend- MON: 11:00, 2:30, 6:30 • TUES & WED: 11:00, 2:30, 6:30 wrapped around the top line, cry, while the look on Pick’s Faith does not remain alive be- ing. Because perhaps the greatand as the wind continued to face exhibited an indescribable cause it once burned brightly. est danger is not falling. It is blow, the tin would wave back terror. His brothers looked at Everything drifts. Everything becoming so comfortable on a and forth and hit the bottom him as if to ask what had hap- descends unless energy is con- rung that we forget the ladder line. Each time it hit the bot- pened. He slowly began to de- tinually invested to sustain and was meant to be climbed at all. tom line an arc would occur scribe what his family had just elevate it. Yonatan Hambourger is DQGVSDUNVZRXOGÁDQGPDNH H[SHULHQFHG+HÀQDOOEOXUWHG That may be the most a rabbi and teacher. He welan awful growling noise. out, “We barely escaped some- demanding lesson hidden comes questions and comments All Uncle Pick could thing like them Martians.” within Jacob’s dream. Human at y@TasteofTorah.org. More think about was the radio show Nowadays we can all beings are not designed merely of his work can be found at back in the 1930s. The sound sit back and laugh about this to preserve themselves. We are www.TasteofTorah.org. the arc made resembled the event. After all, we are more designed to develop. sound made by those monsters educated and think we have A man I once knew refrom Mars. At any moment he expected to be taken captive by seen it all. And in certain ways I guess we have seen much due tired after a successful career DQG ORRNHG IRUZDUG WR ÀQDOO Sax... the Martians. So, Uncle Pick WR WKH LQÁXHQFH RI WHOHYLVLRQ VORZLQJ GRZQ )RU WKH ÀUVW continued from Page 4A would take his family back to- radio and the internet. Back few months, the freedom felt VSHFLÀFLWHPL]HGLWHPVIRUDQ ward his house. Then he would in 1950 we did not have any wonderful. He slept later, read budget submissions and thus think the storm was getting of those things, which makes the newspaper longer, and en- would understand my desire to worse and he would turn back me wonder if just maybe my joyed the absence of deadlines. have the same level of detail. toward the storm shelter. Upon parents and grandparents were But over time, something un- I have made similar hearing the arcing noise and better off without those things. expected happened. The curi- requests to our Tax Commis- osity that had energized him sioner when he has commented for decades began fading. The publicly on SPLOST on vari- Shirkey...continued from Page 4A projects he once dreamed of ous social media posts, but he 6XFK D WUDQVSDUHQW DQG HIÀ- two month old? Sad to see pursuing never quite began. has never replied to my recient system. this restaurant being closed The days became increasingly quests. :KDW ZH ÀQDOO IRXQG during the busiest time of the interchangeable. Nothing dra- Again, I am totally supout on July 29 is that those year. And the sign is still up as matic was wrong, yet some- portive of fair and reasonable that would like to see the de- though the restaurant is open? thing important was quietly taxes when I know where the tails for the 2025 Financials Confusing? money is going and am hopeof the county will be waiting until March 2027? The reason The Dog Park remains a question as it has been since Ashurst... ful this information will be pro- vided in the near future. why is because of our Com- the Commissioner refused continued from Page 4A Dan Sax missioner’s desire for things to to talk to Dog Park users at a constantly wanting attention be presented accurately and in Commissioner’s meeting sev- from the victim. The attention a transparent manner? I don’t eral months ago. The county centers on the needs and wants think so. is working on the new park at of the toxic person. In reality, On the question about Meeks, but can give no open- toxic individuals don’t really the status of the opening of ing date except to say 2026? care if the other person has “The View Restaurant,” the Another ineffective pro- personal problems, and such transparent answer received cess that does little to show problems are seldom or never was “the County has no con- us the Commissioner is about addressed by the toxic person. trol over decisions related to transparency and keeping the Their constant complaining the business itself.” The new community informed. In talk- and negative viewpoints can business leasing the property ing to many residents in our leave the other person feeling from Union County Govern- community, many who were unimportant, depressed, and ment provided a tentative supporters prior to his election anxiety-ridden. opening date of June 1, 2026. in 2024 – this is not what we Negative people need Let me get this straight. The expected from the Commis- drama like oxygen. Stay posicounty signed a lease with sioner, based on his promises tive. It will take their breath a new company to run our during his election campaign away. OWNED facility, however, we to listen to residents and be can’t give a date in the paper transparent. except for a date that is almost Kristie Shirkey Fowler... continued from Page 4A Chamber...continued from Page 4A Him and your neighbor. Jesus wants you to be encouraged, to KING able ways. People who sud- challenging years, I want to be set free from doomerism, to denly had the ability to work thank everyone who worked have the perspective and experemotely chose to rent cabins tirelessly to help Union County rience of joy, despite whatever here and experience mountain through one of the most dif- happens in the world. life while continuing their ca- ÀFXOW SHULRGV LQ RXU KLVWRU Nothing that happens is reers. Our manufacturers were I also ask that we remember a surprise to the God of Provideemed essential and kept op- those we lost to COVID-19 and dence. He has already accounterating. The Appalachian Trail the families whose lives were ed for it in accomplishing His remained a draw for outdoor forever changed. WHERE WE TREAT YOU LIKE ROYALTY purposes. He has overcome enthusiasts, and Vogel State Union County has come the world, and in Him, you Park never closed. By work- a long way, and I look forward have too. “These things I speak ing together with our local to continuing to work along- in the world so that they may governments, tourism partners, side all of you to keep Blairs- have My joy made full in thembusinesses, and community or- ville-Union County strong selves” (John 17:13). This joy ganizations, Blairsville-Union while preserving the culture, says “No!” to doomerism. County not only weathered the heritage, and small-town valstorm but emerged stronger ues that make this community than ever. Tourism’s economic such a special place to live, impact grew from less than $20 work, and visit. Williams ... million annually to more than Thank you to everyone continued from Page 4A $100 million, making our com- who does their part to make The leaves look like chestmunity one of Georgia’s pre- Life Better in Blairsville and nut leaves, but they are less mier mountain destinations. are grateful to call this wonder- pointed. Chestnut oak tends $V , UHÁHFW RQ WKRVH ful community home. to be more of an upland spe- FLHV7KDWPHDQVRXÀQGLWRQ Dyer ... continued from Page 4A ridges and slopes further away from streams. One of the major responsibilities of UCEMA is to provide If you have questions information to the public about potential emergencies and disas- about trees in our area, contact ters that may affect the community. The RAVE system is a great your County Extension Ofcommunication platform that can inform people of these potential ÀFHRUHPDLOPHDW-DFRE:LOincidents. Having this information can help liams@uga.edu. everyone prepare and make better decisions. For more information about RAVE, please VETERANS visit https://tinyurl.com/UnionRave or call UCEMA at 706-487-4960. CORNER Union County Fire Department ~Our Disabled American Family Protecting Your Family~ Veterans - DAV Chapter 11: Meetings are on the 2nd Mon- Combs ...continued from Page 4A day of each month at 7 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA as your Lord and Savior. God into this life for Jesus Christ 30512. will never force you to love pours over into eternity where Navy Seabee Veterans Of Him. Life here in this old sinful great will be your reward for all America, Island X-3, GA: Meet- ZRUOGLVÁHHWLQJOLNHWKHZLQG of your good deeds you did in ings are on the 2nd Friday of each here for a while, then gone. the Name of our Savior, Jesus month at 2 PM; 78 Blue Ridge When you hook up with Christ. Folks, it will be worth Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. Jesus Christ, the sky’s the limit it all when you see the face Navy Seabee Veterans to what God has prepared for of Jesus and He says to you: Support Alliance: Meetings are His children for eternity. Let Welcome, good and faithful on the 2nd Friday of each month that word “Eternity” sink in for servant. Come and enjoy the at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., a while. Ponder the thought of fruits of your labor and bask in Blairsville, GA 30512. never growing old. Never dy- the wonders of heaven and all Marine Corps League, ing anymore. No more pain and that God has created for you to Detachment 783: Meetings suffering. No need for doctors, enjoy forevermore. are on the 3rd Saturday of each nurses, hospitals, undertakers Are you looking forward month at 10 AM; 78 Blue Ridge or grave diggers. We will all to the new earth, new heaven Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. KDYHJORULÀHGERGLHVOLNH-HVXV and the New City of Jerusalem American Legion - Ira that will never wear out. where we will live with King Weaver Post: Meetings are on The investment you put Jesus? Hallelujah! the 3rd Tuesday of each month Frank F. Combs at 6 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., $ CASH 4 $ Collins Blairsville, GA 30512. Vietnam Veterans Of $ $ ... America, Chapter 1101: Meet- $ Antique $ continued from Page 4A ings are on the 3rd Thursday Of $ Trucks & Cars $ RXUERDWFDVWDÀVKLQJOLQHRU each $ month at 1 PM; 78 Blue $ $ Tractors! Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA $ simply take in the breathtaking 30512. Call our sales team at 800.388.2897 $ Not Running & Rusted $ mountain scenery. These public Veterans Of Foreign $ $ boat ramps are more than just Wars - Post 7394: Meetings $ $ Pre-1950’s $ places to launch a boat—they $ are on the 4th Tuesday Of each & visit kingfordsales.com to learn more Labosco’s at the $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ are gateways to family memo- month at 4 PM; 78 Blue Ridge $ $ ries, outdoor adventures, and Hwy., Blairsville GA 30512. $ $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ the exceptional quality of life PTSD Support Group: 706-745-0097 $ that makes Union County a Meets on the 1st and 3rd Satur- 2450 us hwy 64, murphy, NC 28906 CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! wonderful place to call home. days at 10 AM.
Page 6A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 $WODV6SHDNV ...from Page 1 adversity from the moment he heavy dose of tough love and a was born; his left arm had to number of coaches and teachers be amputated below the elbow believing in him, all helped after his umbilical cord cut off Atlas learn that he was more EORRG ÁRZ WR WKH OLPE /DWHU than his perceived setbacks. in childhood, he struggled with In fact, the two huge reading comprehension; dealt things that helped Atlas with a speech impediment and change his view of the world ADHD; experienced the fallout were points that he asked the of his parents’ divorce; and lost audience to repeat back to him his father to cancer when he multiple times, if only to make ZDVLQÀIWKJUDGH sure they understood as well. “This is just basic Firstly, Atlas learned to psychology, but if you guys always ask “how.” For example, can understand that you have how could he better himself and a higher purpose and actually how could he impact others? believe that, you won’t need Second, studies show that it constant motivation,” Atlas takes 21 days to develop new noted at the beginning of his thought patterns in the human presentation, utilizing humor brain. But what can school staff to hold the attention of the do with that information? audience and win them over. Always ask how one Not only that, but he also can motivate and uplift their sought audience participation at students, how one can do better certain points. While describing The faculty and staff of Union County Primary School enjoyed the annual convocation, which is meant to give everyone an on behalf of their students. Atlas his own journey to overcoming extra boost of inspiration at the start of a new school year. challenged teachers to go out of Photo by Brittany Holbrooks a defeatist attitude, Atlas their way to show meaningful home, they come to school to be make a difference in someone’s Atlas warned that anyone reminded them of why they demonstrated how he learned loved.’ How is that working?” life with what he hoped would who is “waiting” because chose their occupation. kindness to their students for his “nub” was not a detriment 21 days – and that goes beyond To d e m o n s t r a t e , h e be a warm and storied career. It they’re close to retirement or Hussion then read a text to his athletics, but a weapon. just complimenting them on picked out one of the new made her feel invigorated and tired of their position should he received from a former C a l l i n g u p We i g h t their appearance. teachers in the audience and inspired, and so too should the “move out of the way” to student who attributed their Training Coach Curtis Turner, had the entire room erupt in proper support make students make room for people who success to him believing in “Here’s the quote I hope Atlas had a little fun by jabbing haunts you at night,” Atlas applause and smile at her as believe in themselves. are passionate about being them. Turner with the nub, proving they welcomed her as part of said. “‘When kids are loved at “The stupidest kid in in the classroom as positive “ Yo u c a n m a k e a how painful a hit from the site home, they come to school to the team. Radically, he thanked your classroom is one of the role models who can make a difference, and people will could be. This, along with a her for existing, for choosing to most intelligent kids in their difference in the lives of their remember you years from learn. But if they’re not loved at age bracket in the entire world students. now,” Hussion said. “You never ... and maybe if they actually “Make sure you can know which one of these is a cell: 706-781-7945 understood that perspective, make that difference in a kid,” Kevin Atlas. So, I appreciate MINDY ALLEN TEAM they’d apply themselves more,” suggested Chief Academic y’all; we’re going to have a Atlas said. “You matter, you are 2IÀFHU&7+XVVLRQDIWHU$WODV great year.” Mindy Allen / Ria Storm more important, and the impact spoke, adding that when he Union County students 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville GA Assoc. Brokers/Sisters that you can make is more than and other administrators heard head back to classrooms on 706-745-8097 50 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE! you can possibly conceive.” Atlas at a past conference, he Wednesday, Aug. 5. BEAUTIFUL LOG HOME. 5400+ sq ft incl bsmt. 4BR/2.5BA w/Open Grt rm. Exp beams, wood burning fplc, Oak Àrs, big dining area. LRG island in KIT. 2BR on main. 2BR w/open loft up. 2Car Gar. 2 acres. Close to Lake Nottely. #417083 $599,900 7 Wooded Acs w/330+ ft of Chattahoochee River Frontage! Haber- sham County, Cornelia. Sensible restrictions to protect your invest- ment. Paved + gravel rd, 2 water systems, top of the ridge. #428654 $379,900 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 Licensed in GA & NC c: 706-897-0956 o: 706-222-5588 NEW LISTING KarynWoody.com karynwoody@mountainsir.com NEW LISTING Virtually Staged 382 Lola Mae Way | Morganton, GA Offered at $520,000 • MLS #434521 Inviting 3-bedroom, 3-bath home in a gated community with cathedral ceilings, stone fireplace, main-level living, spacious loft, finished lower level, covered porches, oversized two-car garage, and neighborhood pond Listing Agents: Robert Rogers • 706-897-0962 | Tina McDaniel • 706-713-6004 NEW LISTING Virtually Staged 61 Deerwood Trail | Blairsville, GA Offered at $429,900 • MLS #434629 Renovated 3-bedroom, 3-bath Lake Nottely cabin with lake and mountain views, updated kitchen, main-level primary suite, wraparound decks, semi-finished basement, workshop, and detached garage. Minutes from Blairsville & the marina. ac Listing Agent: Erin Brown • 706-781-9809 NEW LISTING 539 Summer Cove Road | Blairsville, GA Offered for $569,000 MOVE-IN READY MOUNTAIN RETREAT 119 Satterfield Place | Blairsville, GA Inviting 3-bedroom, 3-bath Blairsville mountain home set on nearly 2 acres Offered at $648,000 • MLS #434535 with flexible living space, expansive covered porches, and a warm, Well-kept 3-bedroom home on 7 unrestricted acres with mountain views, spacious comfortable interior. The oversized terrace-level garage provides plenty of porches, walk-in closets, covered RV parking, and multiple outbuildings offering room for vehicles, storage, or a workshop. Offered mostly furnished and storage or flexible use. Just 5 miles from downtown Blairsville. move-in ready—perfect for full-time living, a weekend retreat, or investment. Listing Agent: Tina McDaniel • 706-713-6004
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7A Panther House ...from Page 1A volunteers come in to complete and their two daughters, and integrity of those walls to hold WKH ÀQLVKLQJ ZRUN 'RQQHOO there will even be a yard to strong. who luckily has a background play in and a deck to sit on and She surprised Wimberly in construction, had to install continue the family tradition of ERIIHULQJWRÀOOWKHFDELQHWV the insulation, drywall and watching the stars. with groceries, which he SOXPELQJ À[WXUHV KLPVHOI RQ On the day of the readily agreed to once the top of painting. dedication, Friday, July 31, pair’s schedules allow them to Dylan Wimberly, as part Habitat leaders and community go shopping together. of the program’s sweat-equity members were invited to tour Other members of agreement, worked alongside the house. Although largely the community provided 'RQQHOOLQVWDOOLQJWKHÁRRULQJ empty, some boxes and small housewarming gifts such as and doing touch-up painting. items of furniture have been a cross-stitch frame marking “It’s life changing for moved into the house, and WKH PRYHLQ GDWH DQG them, and that’s what we’re Wimberly said the family will a painting to decorate the here to do; we’re here to help move in before rent is due for younger daughter’s room. folks,” said Donnelly, simply their last placement. “I just want to tell proud that all that hard work Although Wimberly’s everybody I appreciate it,” had come to fruition. wife and girls couldn’t attend said an emotional Wimberly. With a market value Friday, their support team “If you would have told me I RI DQG ORFDWHG showed up to provide a warm was going to buy a house this on property with a pastoral welcome. Habitat Board year, I probably would have Community member Robin Jones, left, made this “Bless Our Home” cross-stitch for Habitat view that visitors agreed was President Melissa Alexander laughed in your face, but this homeowner Dylan Wimberly to hang in his family’s new house. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks “beautiful,” the house will be a n d Vi c e P r e s i d e n t P a m is great.” an upgrade for the Wimberlys; Rangel congratulated Dylan Along with Union Dylan's mother, Donna Schrek, and commended him on his County Schools, Towns/Union described their current living hard work. Habitat for Humanity wants situation as a “hunter’s cabin” Meg Whitley performed to thank several organizations where the family “is on top of a dedication prayer for the for their role in helping make each other.” house by instructing everyone homeownership a reality The three-bedroom, two- to lay their hands on the walls for deserving families. This bathroom home that they’ll be and pray for the peace, health includes River City Bank, moving into will have plenty and prosperity of the family which was inadvertently left out of room for Dylan, his wife, inside and for the structural of a previous acknowledgment. GMREC Field Day ...from Page 1A Visitors toured the Experiment Station in tractor-pulled trams, stopping for presentations at various research sites throughout the GMREC campus. Photo by Daysha Pandolph Other presentations Professor Wayne Parrott; Ph.D. Frank Riley. t h r o u g h o u t t h e m o r n i n g graduate research assistant Following lunch, guests featured research on beer hops, Jake Spittle; UGA Assistant returned to the GMREC tomatoes, apples, ornamental Professor Phillip Vines; UGA office for a demonstration plants, genetics, fruit diseases, Professor Donglin Zhang; by Covington on the uses of turf grass and several other Assistant Professor Sarah drones in agriculture. crops important to Georgia Lowder; Cherokee County “I’m so impressed,” said agriculture. A g r i c u l t u r e a n d N a t u r a l Sharon Kridel, a Dahlonega Speakers included UGA Resources Agent and County resident and member of the graduate student Zach Hutzell; Extension Coordinator Josh Georgia Mountains Master UGA Professor Esther van Fuder; and Extension Fruit G a r d e n e r s w h o a t t e n d e d der Knaap; UGA Research Disease Specialist Phillip her first GMREC Field Day Brannen. that Wednesday. “I’ve taken $ CASH 4 $ Around noon, the tram pictures and sent all kinds of convoy stopped at a pavilion information to my classmates $ $ for lunch sponsored by the that didn’t come and to my $ COINS, $ Chestatee-Chattahoochee husband. It’s an amazing $ $ RC&D Council. The meal facility.” $ SILVER $ GMREC Field Day is $ $ was catered by Rib Country $ & COSTUME $ and organized by CC RC&D held every two years and will $ $ Council Executive Director UHWXUQLQ $ JEWELRY $ $ Labosco’s at the $ $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ $ $ 3DUNLQVRQ·V6XSSRUW*URXS 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ The Parkinson’s Sup- at North Georgia Tech, Blairs- $ 706-745-0097 $ port Group meets on the 2nd YLOOH 3OHDVH FDOO CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! Tuesday each month at 2 PM IRUPRUHLQIR
Page 8A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 Inaugural “Meals for Mutts” Fundraiser Rallies Blairsville Mountain Coin PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Community, Raising Over $2500 for Union County Animals Club to feature From the Union County Sheriff’s Office Local diners & 12 restaurants came together to turn everyday meals trivia August 11th We have recently got- Under this guise, they would into life-saving support for Safe Pet Project ten questions about the Union then solicit money from the County Jail’s online inmate family acting like this money perhead Lodge. “Our tables lar raised stays right here in roster whereby people could would be used to release their were buzzing, our team was Union County funding life- login and see recent arrests. loved one from jail. We had energized, and getting a visit saving veterinary care for fos- On December 24th, 2025, we several people scammed out from Darcey, one of the foster ter pets, free microchipping, inactivated that website. of thousands of dollars be- animals benefiting from the community cat TNR, and criti- The reason for the in- cause of this. Safe Pet Project and event, made it extra special. cal support for pet owners in The Mountain Coin Club activation was to prevent This is why we made the Lucky Dog Restaurant Meals for Mutts was a big win need. It’s dollar-for-dollar lo- invites collectors, hobbyists, further scams to our citizens. the decision to take the web- Group are celebrating an ex- for local businesses and pets cal impact.” and the simply curious to our Recently, scammers had been site down for now. We are excellent turnout following the alike, and we can’t wait for Licensed by the Geor- next monthly meeting on Tues- logging into that website and ploring options to begin postinaugural Blairsville Meals for next year.” gia Department of Agricul- day, August 11th, at 6 p.m. held viewing those that had recent- ing this information online, Mutts dine-to-donate event on The event’s partner, ture since December 2022, at the North Georgia Technical ly been arrested. The scam- but we will only do this if we Wednesday, July 22nd. Com- Lucky Dog Restaurant Group, Safe Pet Project is a 501(c) College Blairsville Campus. mer would then locate family can ensure that our citizens munity members turned out in helped with restaurant recruit- (3) volunteer-driven, no-kill Along with our usual members for the recently in- will not be scammed from the full force, enjoying local din- ment and community outreach organization. Safe Pet Project look into the latest collecting carcerated person. The scam- utilization of this information. ing while raising over $2500 for the initiative. “Honestly, provides resources, services, news, this special evening fea- mer would then contact the We will continue to post to fund vital animal welfare seeing everyone come out to and community education tures our annual numismatic family and act as if they were all recent arrests in the North programs in Union County. eat and support Safe Pet Proj- while reducing pressure on lo- knowledge competition — a law enforcement officers. Georgia News each week. Inspired by the Atlanta ect was just awesome,” said cal shelters through its foster fun, fast-paced trivia challenge. Humane Society’s wildly suc- Jen Rushing, Vice President at animal care network. Whether you want to cessful “Tables for Tails,” the Lucky Dog Restaurant Group. Participating restaurants learn something new, or just Union County Jail one-day event brought togeth- “Blairsville has a huge heart, for the 2026 event included meet friendly neighbors with Arrest/Booking Report er 12 local eateries—ranging especially when it comes to Lucky’s Taqueria & Cantina, similar interests, we would from casual lunch spots to fine standing behind small busi- Teppanyaki Time, Sweet Pea’s love to have you join us. For Shawn Dyer, Union County Sheriff dining establishments—each nesses and animals in need. Downtown Eatery, Pizza Belly, more details or questions about pledging a portion of their This partnership was a dream Blairsville Social, Michaelee’s the event, please reach out di- 07/27/26 Gary L. Dockery, age 65, Young Harris, GA day’s proceeds directly to Safe for our team, and we’re al- Italian Life Caffe, Sammies rectly to Jeff at 724-625-2566. Possession of firearm by convicted felon NT(Aug5,Z16)CA Pet Project. Without needing ready looking forward to the Subs, Blairsville Restaurant 07/27/26 Travis Lee Dockery, age 41, Young Harris, GA vouchers or special codes, next one.” Grits & Greens, Expedition Probation Violation (felony) patrons simply dined out, or- Every dollar raised from Joe Coffee Company, The Fly- 08/02/26 Charles Leroy Longwell, age 57, Ellijay, GA dered takeout, or picked up Meals for Mutts directly sus- ing Trout, Blairsville Huddle DUI, possession of open alcohol container office lunches to make an im- tains Safe Pet Project’s hands- House, and Skyline Wings & 07/29/26 Frank John Marino, age 42, Blairsville, GA mediate impact. on, volunteer-driven work in Things. Theft by taking, theft by deception “The community spirit the county. “Meals for Mutts To learn more about 07/29/26 Katherine Rae McEwen, age 49, Blairsville, GA on Wednesday was conta- provided a vital boost to our Safe Pet Project or to support VFW Karaoke Probation violation (misd) gious,” said Melissa Sher- core operating budget,” said ongoing animal welfare efforts Karaoke on Wednesdays 07/27/26 Shad Jonathan Newton, age 47, McCayesville, GA wood, Event Coordinator at Mike Boyer, Treasurer of in Blairsville, visitsafepetpro- from 4 PM until 8 PM at the Housed for other agency (Fannin) The Flying Trout and Cop- Safe Pet Project. “Every dol- ject. N(Aug5,Z6)CA VFW Post on Sunnyside Rd 07/27/26 Caleb M. Stillwell, age 23, Copperhill, TN in Hiawassee. Come join us Driving while license suspended/revoked, taillight for some fun! It is open to the requirements Freemasonry Sons of public. 07/29/26 Bryant (Bobby) Weldon Williams, age 52 in Colonial Confederate VFW Fish Fry Blairsville, GA Failure to appear America Veterans Meeting The VFW is pleased to 07/29/26 Fred Lindsey Williams, age 58, Hayesville, NC have you come and have Fish Probation violation (felony) Part 7 David W. Payne Camp 1633, Sons of Confederate Fry with us at our brand new There are 64 inmates currently housed in the Union County Jail. Veterans meets the second Post on Sunny Side for $12 or Did Freemasonry influence $15 all you can eat. Thursday of every month at 6 the American Revolution? PM, at the Davenport Veterans The nights of the fish fry Blairsville Police Department There were several novelist Umberto Eco who is still the second (2nd) and Building, across the 4-lane Arrests and Incident Report books written and led people wrote in one of his books called the forth (4th) fridays of each from Longhorn Steakhouse in to believe that Freemasons Pendulum, in the absence of a month and remember no Tax Blairsville. The public is wel- Chief Michael “Bear” Baxter were behind it. There’s a very supreme being that you believe & no Tip. We hope to see you come to attend. NT(Aug5,Z3)CA famous one by a Scotsman is governing the universe and there. NT(Aug5,A1)JT 07/30/26 Rodney Valentino Robinson, age 43, Decatur, GA called John Robinson called has a plan, in the absence of The Proof of Conspiracies belief of that, when something The Ability Connection: Second Hold for other county 07/27/26 Lost property, courtesy report which was published in 1797 and others which allay all weird and strange happens, hu- man beings chock it up to some Meeks Park Meet-Up a Success 07/28/26 Dispute between persons, suspicious incident, courtesy escort, MVA these shocking revolutionary sort of conspiracy right? flashing while new families 07/29/26 Courtesy escort things that defeat the shad- So when anything and friends mingled with re- 07/30/26 Wanted person located, courtesy escort owy organization called The strange happens, like the turning ones during our sec- 07/31/26 Funeral escort, courtesy escort Illuminati which infiltrated French Revolution or the Rus- ond meet-up at Meeks Park. 08/01/26 Assist motorist, dispute between persons, courtesy Freemasonry and attempted to sian Revolution or the Ken- The day, filled with sunshine escort, MVA infiltrate Freemasonry in the nedy assassination or the 1929 and a cool breeze, set the 08/02/26 Found property/open door, funeral escort, courtesy United States as well. stock market crash or you stage for everyone to partake escort, MVA The best summation of name it, we find a conspiracy, in an assortment of fun-filled 08/03/26 Assist other agency all that revolutionary paranoid usually the Illuminati or the On Sunday afternoon, activities. Healthy snacks idea I think comes from the Freemasons get the blame… July 26th, my camera was led the way as we all moved N(Aug5,Z7)CA from one activity table to the Union County Fire next. Socializing between kids Department Incidents flourished as their parents ex- changed common experiences Union County Fire Chief David Dyer *Ç ! and looked at our information- al table. 07/27/26 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 2-Jones Creek; Tables were filled with Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; all ages and backgrounds Medical Call-Station 5-Suches; Medical Call- while each enjoyed personal Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog; 2 Medical Calls- interests. Windchime-making Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Smoke Detector was a popular activity that Install-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell ,6U parents and their children en- 07/28/26 Assist Other Agency-Mutual Aid joyed together. Our teenage 07/29/26 2-Car Seat Installs-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical peers also assisted others in the windchimes and bead jew- elry. Families and friends kept busy with our sensory tub, Call-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Fire Alarm-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa; Did you know we deliver clay, coloring, LEGO build- ing and hula hoops during this relaxing afternoon. I was Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Smoke Detector Install-Station 13 & Station 4- Ivy Log; Smoke Detector Install-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Smoke Detector Install-Station 1 & to local businesses? treated to a delightful break- fast of donuts, eggs, and cup- Station 10-Trackrock cakes. Luckily, calories for me 07/30/26 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa; 2 Medical Calls-Station 1 & Station 12-Choestoe weren’t an issue during this Just give us a call! social playtime ritual. Popular easy-listening tunes filled the air together 07/31/26 Medical Call-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call- Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; Smoke Investigation- Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa; Fire Alarm-Station 1 with Les Kozma playing gui- & Station 10-Trackrock; Medical Call-Station 1 & tar. We had a special visit Station 12-Choestoe 08/01/26 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Need colored paper? from Blairsville Kiwanis Club Controlled Burn-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock Member Kathie McMillan. 08/02/26 Fire Alarm-Station 1-Blairsville; 2 Medical Calls- Kathie easily blended into the Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Medical Call- Need cardstock? atmosphere, mingling with children, their families and Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog; Medical Call- Station 13 & Station 9-Coosa; Motor Vehicle lending a helping hand. Be- Accident-Hwy 515/Murphy Hwy We got you! fore leaving, our kids received a favorite stuffed animal, keychains and playing cards Alcoholics Anonymous meetings/times Alcoholics Anonymous East, Blairsville; 7 p.m. C/M/ that fit into a special needs bag designed by Nicole Koz- is a fellowship of men and CD Brothers in Sobriety, All $4.99 per ream ma. I was so glad I snapped women who share their ex- Saints Lutheran Church, 83 those pictures. Just go to our perience, strength, and hope, Earl Shelton Road, Blairsville. group page on Facebook, Spe- in order to solve their com- Wednesday: 7 p.m. O/SS/LM cial Needs Families in Union mon problem and help oth- Blairsville Group, Positive $49.99 per case County, for a peek. ers to recover from Alcohol- Pathways, 243 Hunt Martin Submitted by Lisa Kramer ism. The only requirement for Street, Blairsville. Thurs- N(Aug5,Z12)CA membership is a desire to stop day: 9 a.m. C/M Brothers in drinking. Sobriety, All Saints Lutheran White 20# 8.5x11 Georgia Mountain BLAIRSVILLE: Mon- Church, 83 Earl Shelton Road, 7 p.m. O/BB Blairsville Blairsville. Friday: 12 noon 92 Brightness Pregnancy Center day Group, Positive Pathways, W/OD Sisters in Sobriety The Georgia Mountain 243 Hunt Martin Street, Group, Lutheran Church, 83 Pregnancy Center offers free Blairsville. Tuesday: 7 p.m. Earl Shelton Road, Blairsville. first Trimester ultrasound, C/W/SS Blairsville, Tues- Saturday: 8 a.m. OD Blairs- Colored paper and heavier pregnancy test, and counseling. day Evening Ladies Meet- ville Group, Mountain Presby- The center is located at ing, Mountain Presbyterian terian Church, 3801 Highway 136 Hospital Drive Road, Suite Church, 3801 Highway 5515 515 East, Blairsville. weight pricing varies. Call A, GA; (706)745-0051; gmpc- for assistance, please. medical.org NT(Aug5,Z1)CA Scam & Fraud Bell Ringing Union County Old Courthouse Awareness Class Golf Course Community Center 129 Union County Recreation Road Blairsville, GA 30512 Important Information Presented by 706-745-6343 Union County Sheriff’s Office Tri-State Tech Support United Community Bank Adult Protective Services westprinting@windstream.net Bell ringing information at 706-745-5493 Open to the Public August 26, 2026 • 10 AM
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9A Celebrate Smokey Bear’s 82nd Birthday with Fee-Free Events at Anna Ruby Falls and Brasstown Bald Weekend storm brings flooding, damage to area Families and visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate Smokey Bear’s 82nd Birthday with two special fee-free events on Saturday, August Educational activity celebrating wildfire prevention 8, at Anna Ruby Falls Visitor lands. As wildfire awareness the waterfalls of Anna Ruby Center and Brasstown Bald becomes increasingly impor- Falls or Georgia’s highest peak Visitor Center! tant across the country, these at Brasstown Bald, they can ex- These celebrations hon- celebrations provide an op- pect a day filled with education, or America’s iconic symbol portunity for visitors to meet fun, and celebration alongside of wildfire prevention while Smokey Bear, hear his re- one of America’s most recogencouraging visitors to learn markable true story, and dis- nizable conservation icons. about protecting our forests cover how simple actions can Special thanks to Ingles through a day of family- help protect our forests. Markets for their generous friendly activities, special ap- Both locations will be Cake donations that make pearances, and birthday fes- open free of charge for the day Smokey Bear’s birthday postivities. and will feature opportunities sible! Since becoming the na- to meet Smokey Bear, enjoy For more information tional symbol for wildfire pre- birthday cake, explore the about both events, visit FIND vention in 1944, Smokey Bear beautiful sites, and participate Outdoors’ website at www. An overnight storm Sat- to report that Helton Creek topping the road and washing has reminded generations that in educational activities cel- gofindoutdoors.org or follow urday into Sunday dropped Road at Happy Hollow Lane away asphalt. each of us plays an important ebrating wildfire prevention! FIND Outdoors on social me- between 3.5 and 6.5 inches washed out near Vogel State The same storm system role in caring for our public Whether visitors choose dia. of rain in the region, with Park, trapping residents until resulted in major flooding in portions of southern Union county emergency responders nearby McCaysville, prompt- County receiving the higher could arrive to temporarily fix ing the declaration of a State A Human Spark: Angela Hunnicutt, For the Children amounts locally. the road to allow residents ac- of Emergency amid road clo- Our children are our teacher. At Piedmont College, Resident Larry Sny- cess. sures, a disruption to the muhope. We invest our dreams, she earned a bachelor’s degree der, who took the photo- The massive amount of nicipal water supply, power our energy, our ideals, our in psychology, pivoting to a A Human graph above, contacted the rain caused the culverts there outages and damage to buildstrength, our values, and our discipline that offered more Spark North Georgia News Sunday to clog, with stormwater over- ings. resilience in them. Children opportunities for employment are born with the human spark. in an era when the “No Child Myra Gross DDS Reminds Drivers to Practice Back to School Safety Like a small flicker when they Left Behind” movement deciare young, the spark must be mated public school funding Schoen Failure to Stop for Buses Brings Points/Fines carefully fed with love and at- and hiring policies. rear of the bus. After stopping, Please obey school tention and encouragement to Upon graduation, she children whose families fall below the poverty line.” drivers must remain stopped signs, lights, and signals, but survive and blaze brightly as was employed to serve indi- until the bus resumes motion also watch carefully for chilthey grow. viduals with special needs to As one of four children, Angela says she grew up in or deactivates its warning sig- dren walking, crossing the Angela Hunnicutt, as help foster their independence. nals and all loading or unload- street, or waiting for the bus. executive director of Towns She also served as a case man- a loving, but humble home. She loved sports and engaged Department of Driver ing passengers have cleared Their safety is our shared re- County Family Connection, is ager for juveniles embroiled Services (DDS) urges drivers the roadway. A conviction of sponsibility, and we want eva loving and sensitive caregiv- in the Justice system. For the in athletic activities, but was hypersensitive to feeling “dif- to practice back to school safe- failure to stop for a school bus ery child to get to and from er tending the school children next decade, she was events ty when driving particularly will add six (6) points to the school safely.” of our community. She has the manager for a hospitality en- ferent from others.” It is this experience that deepens her when approaching or follow- driver’s motor vehicle record. The Georgia Departhuman spark of compassion terprise, and here she became ing school buses. DDS is authorized to suspend ment of Education and county and understanding, as she in- proficient in managing all as- concern for the children who seek support and encourage- Drivers are required a license if its records or other school systems are responsiteracts daily with the hundreds pects of a complex organiza- to stop when approaching or evidence shows that a driver ble for the recruitment, trainof children from pre-K to tion, experience that serves her ment from the special “tribal retreat” of the Family Connec- meeting a stopped school bus has accumulated fifteen (15) ing, testing and administrahigh school enrolled in Towns well as head of a multi-func- that has its lights flashing and points within twenty-four (24) tion of student transportation. County. tional enterprise like Family tion haven supported by pri- is loading or unloading pas- months under the point sys- The Department of Public With a vision of “Spread Connection. vate funding. sengers. The exception to this tem, including violations com- Safety Motor Carrier Compli- Kindness,” the Georgia Fam- Visit her office in the The Georgia Family rule is when highways are sep- mitted out of state. ance Division is the agency ily Connection Collaborative Towns County Schools com- Connection Collaborative is arated in the center by median DDS Commissioner responsible for the inspection helps children navigate their plex, and you’ll find shelves active in all 159 counties, en- strips. In this situation, only Angelique B. McClendon of school buses for mechaniway safely and with confi- and storage spaces overflow- suring that “All children are vehicles following or travel- reminds us “As students re- cal safety. dence through the early years ing with goods that supple- healthy, primed for school, ing alongside a school bus in turn to school, we want every Please consider adding of childhood and the angst of ment the needs of one thou- and succeed when they get the same direction must stop. driver to slow down and stay your Georgia Digital License adolescence, when they are sand students enrolled there. there; families are stable, self- A warning will be given in alert around school buses, es- and ID to your Smartphone vulnerable and need protection Sports equipment, games and sufficient, and productive; and advance by the flashing red or pecially in neighborhoods and Wallet https://dds.georgia.gov/ from bullying, peer pressure, clothing, sneakers and snack communities are vibrant, ro- amber lights on the front and school zones. georgia-licenseid/ga-digital-id. and downright harassment. packs and canned foods to take bust, and thriving.” A young mother herself, home, hoodies with messages You can help locally married to Brian Hunnicutt, a that unite rather than discrimi- with donations of goods and/ Iota Iota a chapter of Beta Sigma Phi July 21st meeting Rabun County middle school nate, school supplies, and a or monetary support. For more principal and former Towns recent gift from the Towns information, contact Angela County assistant principal County Democratic Party of at ahunnicutt@townscounand athletic coach, Angela is earbuds and book bags for up- tyschools.org. a heartfelt advocate for chil- per school students. ***Footnote: if you dren’s rights and well-being. Angela acknowledged know someone with “A Human Growing up in Rabun County, that “Eighty-nine percent of Spark,” please let us know for Angela was nurtured herself Towns County students quali- future editions of the Towns by thoughtful and sympathetic fy for free or reduced lunches. County Herald or North Georteachers, and even at age 8, We get 250-500 withdrawals gia News by contacting wilshe envisioned her future as a of food items a month from low2mtn@gmail.com. The Wilderness Pickers in concert on Addiction Support Friday at Old Courthouse on the Square Refuge Recovery Meet- ing: Tuesdays 6:30 PM, 111 River Street, Hiawassee, GA; 706-970-7754. Sponsored by Hostess gift winners: Tonya Besaw, Jan Valencia, Helen Teboe, Kathy Adams, Sally Shuck & Marie Fertitta NMZ Church. Iota Iota a chapter of ments, her tuna and chicken tional love. Kathy also read a Beta Sigma Phi held their salads were delicious. She poem written by Tina Trivett, Pets monthly meeting on July 21st also gave a very interesting entitled ‘Grandma’s Apron’. at Branan Lodge. Vice Presi- program entitled “Grandma’s Kathy gave some lovely host- of the dent Sally Shuck called the Apron”, some facts on what ess gifts (apron’s and body meeting to order and led mem- the apron is all about. When cream), which was won by Week bers in the Opening Ritual and cooking, it serves as an oven Tonya, Jan, Helen, Kathy A., Pledge of Allegiance. mitten. Sally and Marie. During the business Back in the olden days, The Closing Ritual was meeting, the Vice President it was used for gathering recited and the meeting was Sally Shuck discussed the pro- vegetables from the garden. adjourned at 8:05 PM. Look posed budget and the by-laws The apron was considered for our sorority at the Farmers & standing rules to changes in an everyday garment. There Market on September 5th for our sorority. Discussion was were times it was used to dry our fund raising event. made about our many charities your eyes. Shy grandchildren If you would like to and services to the community would hide under and around find out more about Iota Iota, for the up coming year. the apron. There are lots of contact our Vice President Kathy Ross was the memories that live with old Sally Shuck at rashuck@ hostess and provided refresh- aprons, including uncondi- windstream.net. The Wilderness Pickers Join the Wilderness changed music forever. Fea- Pickers for an enjoyable eve- turing the soulful sounds of ning at the Blairsville Historic Artists like: Elvis Presley, The Courthouse Friday, August 7, Beatles, George Strait, Neil Meet Butters, this chunk 2026 from 7-8 PM. This tal- Young, John Denver, The Ea- of sweet boy came to us all ented six-member acoustic gles, Roy Orbison and more! the way from Oklahoma from group of friends Terri Reilly, Enjoy these acoustic covers some CPR Alum that found Ted Dyk, Ken Sampson, John that will have you singing him. He’s the perfect sidekick! Weaver, Mike Henderson and along and tapping your feet. Roy Perren from the Blairs- Come and join the fun! ville area will be performing This is a free concert the timeless sounds of the 60’s, and everyone is invited to at- 70’s and 80’s. Oldies, Country, tend. The doors open at 6 PM Classic Rock and a touch of and the concert begins at 7 Bluegrass. Get ready to sing PM. Donations are accepted along to your favorite hits and and appreciated for the upkeep relive the magic of an era that of the Historic Courthouse. ARFS: Give Your Pain Purpose If you have lost a dearly to ARFS, P.O. Box 972, Hialoved 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 Plum - this adorhonor of your cherished fur the name of your pet. Memori- able kitten is ready to start friend. als will be posted on ARFS’s her life with YOU! Check out ARFS will use your do- website, unless you request our adoptable cats and dogs at nation to provide medical care otherwise. www.castoffpetrescue.com. for an animal that is suffering Let’s not forget that Don’t forget to come and has an owner who cannot precious pet that gave you so to Bingo! Every Wednesday afford veterinary expenses. much joy. Let’s give your pain night to support our mission. Memorials can be made purpose! All info on our website.
Sports Page 10A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 See the Sports Section at nganews.com Volleyball, softball, football headline opening week By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com Summer break comes to an end Wednesday, and so does the wait for fall sports as Union County’s volleyball, softball and football teams all take the ÀHOG RU FRXUW GXULQJ WKH ÀUVW week of classes. All three will be in action WKLVZHHNEHJLQQLQJ7XHVGD HYHQLQJZKHQWKH3DQWKHUVYROleyball team opens its season DW KRPH ZLWK D KHDYZHLJKW VKRZGRZQ DJDLQVW )UDQNOLQ County and Gilmer at 5 p.m. Union County softball also EHJLQV LWV TXHVW IRU D QLQWK consecutive postseason ap- SHDUDQFH7XHVGDZLWKDSP URDGJDPHDW%DUURZ$UWVDQG 6FLHQFHV$FDGHP %$$6$ in Winder. 7KH /DG 3DQWKHUV UH- WXUQ KRPH 7KXUVGD WR KRVW 3URYLGHQFH &KULVWLDQ DW SPEHIRUHZHOFRPLQJ7DOOX- ODK)DOOVRQ)ULGDDW SP )DQVORRNLQJIRUDGRXble dose of Union County DWKOHWLFVRQ)ULGDFDQKHDGWR WKH VRIWEDOO ÀHOG EHIRUH PDN- LQJWKHLUZDDFURVVWKHVWUHHW to Mike Colwell Memorial Senior Izzy Anthros and the Union softball team open Tuesday on the Union County volleyball begins Tuesday by hosting Franklin County and Gilmer. Both Union County and 6WDGLXP ZKHUH WKH 3DQWKHUV road before returning home Thursday and Friday. Photo/Todd Forrest Franklin County are expected to be among the top contenders for a Class 3A title in 2026. Photo/Todd Forrest football team hosts Hayesville, HOLPLQDWHGLQWKH6ZHHWE Wolverines and Sprayberry. Union County is led by WKHZHHNZLOOIHDWXUH3DQWKHUV Union County will com- 1RUWK&DUROLQDLQDVFULPPDJH HYHQWXDO FKDPSLRQ 0RUJDQ 7KH/DG3DQWKHUVVRIW- UNC Charlotte commit Izzy IRRWEDOO XQGHU WKH OLJKWV DW SHWH LQ &ODVV $ WKLV VHDVRQ DW SP &RXQWIROORZLQJIRXUWLJKWO ball team hopes to continue Anthros, who will serve as Mike Colwell Memorial Sta- DOWKRXJK WKH UHJLRQ UHPDLQV 7XHVGD·VYROOHEDOOWUL FRQWHVWHG VHWV 7KH 3DQWKHUV its recent trend of even-year the team’s top arm and bat dium as the team takes on the ODUJHOLQWDFWIURPDHDUDJR PDWFKIHDWXUHVWZRVTXDGV³ ZUDS XS 7XHVGD·V WULPDWFK VXFFHVVDIWHUUHDFKLQJWKH(OLWH IRUWKHIRXUWKVWUDLJKWVHDVRQ Yellow Jackets in a preseason 7KH*+6$·VDGGLWLRQRIDVHY- 8QLRQ &RXQW DQG )UDQNOLQ DJDLQVW &ODVV $ *LOPHU DW (LJKWLQDQG³ERWK $ORQJZLWK$QWKURVWKH/DG VFULPPDJH )RU DGGLWLRQDO HQWKFODVVLÀFDWLRQVKLIWHGPRVW &RXQW ³ WKDW HQWHU p.m. under first-year coaches. In 3DQWKHUV VKRXOG EH VWURQJ XS GHWDLOVRQ)ULGD·VWXQHXSVHH VFKRROVXSRQHFODVV7KHRQO DPRQJ WKH IDYRULWHV IRU WKH Union County returns WKH VWDUV DSSHDU WR EH the middle with the return of the football story in this week’s FKDQJHVWR5HJLRQLVWKHDG- &ODVV $ VWDWH FKDPSLRQVKLS HLJKWNHFRQWULEXWRUVIURPODVW DOLJQLQJIRUDQRWKHUSRVWVHDVRQ FDWFKHU/H[L'DYHQSRUWVKRUW- Sports Section. GLWLRQRI/D)DHWWHUHSODFLQJ $HDUDJR)UDQNOLQDGYDQFHG HDU·VZLQVHDVRQEXWIDFHV UXQ DV 8QLRQ &RXQW EHJLQV stop Addison Whitener, second /DWHUWKLVPRQWKDOOIRXU /DNHYLHZ)RUW 2JOHWKRUSH WR WKH )LQDO )RXU DIWHU VSOLW- D FKDOOHQJLQJ HDUOVHDVRQ WKH&DVH/XVNHUD/XVNWDNHV EDVHPDQ-XOHV'HUDQGFHQWHU fall sports will be underway ZKLFK UHPDLQHG LQ &ODVV $ WLQJ LWV WZR UHJXODUVHDVRQ slate that continues Saturday RYHU D SURJUDP HQWHULQJ WKH ÀHOGHU6WHOOD&ROOLQV when Union County cross and North Cobb Christian, PDWFKXSV ZLWK WKH 3DQWKHUV DW:RRGVWRFNZKHUHWKH/DG VHDVRQ UDQNHG 1R LQ &ODVV 8QLRQ &RXQW +LJK FRXQWURSHQVLWVVHDVRQ$XJ which made a lateral move to Union County, meanwhile, was 3DQWKHUV ZLOO IDFH WKH KRVW AAA. 6FKRRO·VÀQDOKRPHFRQWHVWRI DW0HHNV3DUN 5HJLRQ$ Local attorney Preston Haliburton to compete for boxing title By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com Hiawassee – Most attorneys spend their summers LQ FRXUWURRPV EXW 3UHVWRQ Haliburton will spend part of KLVLQDER[LQJULQJLQKLVWRULF :LWWHQEHUJ *HUPDQ ZKHUH WKHHDUROG+LDZDVVHHDW- WRUQHLVVHWWRFKDOOHQJH6WHIDQ =RUQLRRQ$XJIRUWKH:RUOG %R[LQJ &RQIHGHUDWLRQ KHDY- ZHLJKWWLWOH +DOLEXUWRQ D JUDGXDWH RI %UHPHQ +LJK 6FKRRO KDV ORFDO URRWV WKURXJK D JUDQGmother from Cherokee County, North Carolina. Inspired by KLV IDWKHU KH EHJDQ ÀJKWLQJ DW D RXQJ DJH DQG DFKLHYHG VXFFHVV WKURXJK WKH DPDWHXU UDQNV EHIRUH ZLQQLQJ DOO SURIHVVLRQDO ÀJKWV EHJLQQLQJ LQ After injuries forced him WR UHWLUH IROORZLQJ KLV ILQDO ERXW LQ KH H[FKDQJHG ER[LQJJORYHVIRUOHJDOEULHIV and established himself as an 3UHVWRQ+DOLEXUWRQDWKLVODZRIÀFHLQ+LDZDVVHHDKHDGRIWKLVZHHNHQG·VWLWOHÀJKW3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW Preston Haliburton training for his upcoming bout. DWWRUQHLQ1RUWK*HRUJLDZLQ- VWUHQJWKHQHGPORZHUERGµ $WODQWD%UDYH2WLV1L[RQ)RU- ´+H JRW PH LQWR ODZ VFKRRO &RXQW 6ROH &RPPLVVLRQHU VSRUWVµ QLQJVHYHUDOKLJKSURÀOHFDVHV +LV FRPHEDFN EHJDQ LQ PHUKHDYZHLJKWER[HU.HYLQ DQG,SDWWHUQHGPOHJDOSUDF- &OLII%UDGVKDZDERXWVWDUWLQJ Haliburton’s athletic LQYROYLQJSURIHVVLRQDODWKOHWHV )HEUXDU ZKHQ KH GHIHDWHG ´7KXQGHUVWRUPµ -RKQVRQ ZLOO tice after his style – just an old DRXWKRUUHFER[LQJSURJUDP VXFFHVV EHJDQ ORQJ EHIRUH KH “When people’s lives are &UDLJ'HQQLVEXQDQLPRXVGH- also be in his corner. FRXQWU'HPRFUDWOLNHKLVJRRG and he has been very support- HQWHUHG WKH ER[LQJ ULQJ $W at stake, I had to focus on my FLVLRQLQ/RXLVYLOOH.HQWXFN -RLQLQJ +DOLEXUWRQ LQ IULHQG=HOO0LOOHUµ ive. It helps kids stay out of %UHPHQ +LJK 6FKRRO KH ZDV OHJDO FDUHHUµ KH VDLG ´, MXVW $IWHUZLQQLQJKLVWXQHXSERXW spirit is the late Jerry Smith, Haliburton thanked the trouble and stay off the street, a two-sport standout in foot- KDGDFDOOLQJWRÀJKWLQDGLI- +DOLEXUWRQ·VQH[WVWHSZLOOEH founder of the now-closed ORFDO OHJDO FRPPXQLW IRU and I think this area needs more EDOODQGEDVHEDOOHDUQLQJ$-& IHUHQWDUHQDIRUDOLWWOHZKLOHµ DQ DWWHPSW WR EULQJ WKH JROG 0HPRU/DQH&ODVVLF&DU0X- ZRUNLQJ ZLWK KLP DURXQG RSSRUWXQLWLHVIRURXQJSHRSOH $OO6WDWHKRQRUVDWTXDUWHUEDFN However, when he ar- back to the mountains when he seum. Haliburton represented KLV ILJKW VFKHGXOH SDUWLFX- ´, DOVR WRRN WKH :%& DQGDOODUHDUHFRJQLWLRQLQERWK ULYHGLQQRUWKHDVW*HRUJLDVL[ IDFHV=RUQLRIRUWKH:%&WLWOH Smith as his attorney, and the ODUO)OHWFKHU*ULIÀQZKRKDV JXVWRPHHWZLWK&OLIIDQGZH VSRUWVGXULQJKLVVHQLRUVHDVRQ HDUV DJR WKH PRXQWDLQ DLU this Saturday. two became close after both helped handle the caseload as PHWZLWKWKH *HRUJLD0RXQ- He later found even JDYH WKH SUL]HILJKWHU D QHZ ´7KH :%& ZDQWHG WR DUULYHGLQ+LDZDVVHHLQ he prepares for his title shot. WDLQ )DLUJURXQGV DQG WKH JUHDWHUVXFFHVVLQER[LQJZLQlease on life. PDNHVXUH,VWLOOKDGWKHJRRGV Additionally, Haliburton 6 L Q F H U H O R F D W L Q J W R UHDOOOLNHGWKHLGHDRIKDYLQJ QLQJD*HRUJLD*ROGHQ*ORYHV ´:KHQ,JRWXSKHUHDQG VR,ZHQWWR/RXLVYLOOHWRÀJKW FUHGLWVIRUPHU*HRUJLD+RXVH QRUWKHDVW *HRUJLD 3UHVWRQ ER[LQJ WKHUH :H DOVR KDYH D FKDPSLRQVKLSDQGHDUQLQJWZR VWDUWHG UXQQLQJ LQ WKH PRXQ- and now I’m ready to take a 6SHDNHUWKHODWH7RP0XUSK +DOLEXUWRQ KRSHV WR JURZ WKH casino in Murphy, North Caro- 1DWLRQDO &ROOHJLDWH %R[LQJ WDLQV,VWDUWHGJHWWLQJPZLQG VKRWDWWKHWLWOHµKHVDLG DOVRD%UHPHQQDWLYHDVRQHRI VSRUW RI ER[LQJ LQ WKH PRXQ- OLQDWKDWFRXOGKRVWER[LQJ Association All-America selec- EDFN KHDOLQJ DQG GHWR[LQJµ In Haliburton’s corner his primary inspirations both WDLQV SDUWLFXODUO DPRQJ WKH ´7KHUHDUHQRSURVSRUWV tions. Haliburton enters the title KH VDLG ´,·YH EHHQ IDVWLQJ ZLOO EH KLV IDWKHU 5LFKDUG LQWKHULQJDQGWKHFRXUWURRP youth. LQWKHDUHD:HKDYHJUHDWFRO- ÀJKWZLWKDFRPELQHGDPDWHXU DQG ZRUNLQJ ZLWK &RZERV +DOLEXUWRQ D IRUPHU ER[HU “He was my mentor and ´, ZRXOG OLNH WR EULQJ OHJH DWKOHWHV EXW , WKLQN WKLV and professional record of IRU &KULVW DQG VWDUWHG ULGLQJ DQGORQJWLPHFRDFKDQGWUDLQHU ZDVDER[HUDW WKH8QLYHUVLW ER[LQJ WR WKLV DUHDµ KH VDLG DUHD ZRXOG EH JUHDW IRU ER[- LQFOXGLQJDSHUIHFW horses a lot, which has really DORQJ ZLWK IULHQG DQG IRUPHU RI 1RUWK *HRUJLD µ KH VDLG ´,·YH EHHQ WDONLQJ WR 7RZQV LQJ 00$ DQG RWKHU FRPEDW mark as a professional. We’ll beat your best ä price on a set of four J>;MEHAI $20 Rebate or tires, plus get up to a SYNTHETIC BLEND OIL 5000 Ford Reward Points $125 REBATE CHANGE AND MORE with purchase J_h[HejWj_ed Fh[iikh[9^[Ya"8hWa[ ?dif[Yj_ed"8Wjj[hoJ[ij"L[^_Yb[9^[Yakf"<bk_Z and installation Jef#E\"<_bj[h9^[Ya"WdZ8[bji >ei[i9^[Ya of a *UP TO SIX (6) QUARTS OF MOTORCRAFT OIL AND MOTORCRAFT OIL FILTER. MOTORCRAFT IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF FORD MOTOR COMPANY. Motorcraft Battery SEE PARTICIPATING USA DEALERSHIP FOR EXCLUSIONS AND DETAILS. Offer valid 7/7/26 - 8/31/26 $20 Rebate or Offer valid Offer valid 7/7/26 - 8/31/26 5000 Ford Reward Points 7/7/26 - 8/31/26 CALL OUR SERVICE A?D= DEPARTMENT TODAY AT 800.388.2897 TO WHERE WE TREAT YOU LIKE ROYALTY SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 11A 3DQWKHUVUHDGWRKLWWKHÀHOG)ULGDIRUVFULPPDJH Union hosts Hayesville ahead of Aug. 21 season opener vs. Fannin By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com :LWK WKH 1)/ DQG FRO- OHJH IRRWEDOO VHDVRQV VWLOO weeks away, local fans look- LQJWRJHWWKHLUIRRWEDOOÀ[FDQ head to Mike Colwell Memo- ULDO 6WDGLXP RQ )ULGD ZKHQ WKH 8QLRQ &RXQW 3DQWKHUV host Hayesville, North Caro- OLQDLQD SPSUHVHDVRQ VFULPPDJH ´7KLVZLOOEHDJUHDWRS- SRUWXQLWWRFUHDWHWKDW)ULGD QLJKW DWPRVSKHUH DQG KRSHfully everyone is like me and VWDUYLQJ IRU IRRWEDOOµ 8QLRQ &RXQWVHFRQGHDUFRDFK5RE 6WRZHVDLGµ $FFRUGLQJWR6WRZH)UL- GD·V VFULPPDJH ZLOO IROORZ D IDPLOLDU IRUPDW 7KH MXQLRU YDUVLWLVH[SHFWHGWRSODWKH RSHQLQJ TXDUWHU EHIRUH WKH YDUVLW WDNHV RYHU GXULQJ WKH VHFRQG DQG WKLUG 7KH IRXUWK 8QLRQ&RXQWVHQLRUOLQHPHQ$ODQ*RGLQH] DQG/RJDQ&ODVHQ ORFNXSGXULQJ7KXUVGD·V3DQWKHU Returning linebackers Micah Wallace (27) and Brandon Lynch (2) go TXDUWHU VKRXOG IHDWXUH D PL[ Preview event at Mike Colwell Memorial Stadium. Photo/Todd Forrest one-on-one in defensive drills on Thursday. Photo/Todd Forrest RIVWDUWHUVDQGEDFNXSVJLYLQJ some of Union County’s twoway players an opportunity to ORJ DGGLWLRQDO VQDSV DW RWKHU positions. As usual, special teams ZLOOEHDGHDGEDOO2QNLFNRIIV the teams will line up and kick, but there will be no returns and both offenses will start DWWKHDUGOLQH3XQWVZLOO be similar, with no rush from the defense, and the ball will be ruled dead at the spot it is ÀHOGHGRUVWRSVUROOLQJ “We want to work on our JXVKDYLQJWRFDWFKWKHSXQWV XQGHU WKH OLJKWV DQG OHW RXU NLFNHUVJRWKURXJKWKHPRWLRQV DOLWWOHELWµ6WRZHVDLG He also added that Union &RXQW·V TXDUWHUEDFNV ZLOO wear a red no-contact jersey, but is unsure if Hayesville will do the same. +RZHYHU 6WRZH·V ELJ- JHVW FRQFHUQ LV JHWWLQJ RXW RI WKHVFULPPDJHKHDOWKZKLFK KDVEHHQDQLVVXHIRUWKH3DQthers in recent years. ´:H·UH D OLWWOH EDQJHG up at a few important spots ULJKWQRZEXWWKLVFRXOGEHDQ Junior QB Kamden Kendrick works on the passing game during Thurs- 8QLRQ&RXQWWDNHVWKHÀHOG7KXUVGDLQIURQWRIIDQVDW0LNH&ROZHOO0HPRULDO6WDGLXP7KH3DQWKHUVDQG RSSRUWXQLWIRUDRXQJHUJX GD·V3DQWKHU3UHYLHZ3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW Hayesville, NC will meet in a scrimmage game on Friday night. Photo/Todd Forrest to step up and show they can HWV DQG 3DQWKHUV ODVW PHHWLQJ VDLG´:KHQRXUJXVFDPHRXW WRJHWKHUDQG,WKLQNRXUJXV DIWHUWKH5HEHOVFODLPHGWKHODVW DQGEHIRUHWKH3DQ- EH FRXQWHG RQ LQ WRXJK VLWXD- LQ of the locker room, they were DUHJRLQJWRPDNHRXUFRPPX- WZRPHHWLQJVEXW)DQQLQKDV thers answered with victories WLRQV EHFDXVH ZH·UH JRLQJ WR /DVW 7KXUVGD 8QLRQ surprised at all the people in the QLWSURXGWKLVVHDVRQµ QRWZRQWKUHHVWUDLJKWDJDLQVW LQDQG need them somewhere down &RXQW KRVWHG D 3DQWKHU 3UH- VWDQGV:HZHUHUHDOOH[FLWHG 7KHUHJXODUVHDVRQRSHQV WKH3DQWKHUVVLQFH )DQQLQFUXLVHGWRD WKHOLQHµ YLHZDOORZLQJWKHIDQVDQHDUO WRVHHVXFKDJRRGWXUQRXWDQG $XJ ZKHQ 8QLRQ &RXQW Since Union County’s YLFWRULQLWVODVWWULSWR%ODLUV- 7KHFRQWHVWHQGVDQLQH SHHNDWWKHVTXDGZKLOH WKHNLGVGHÀQLWHOWRRNQRWLFH KRVWV )DQQLQ &RXQW ZLWK D VL[JDPHZLQQLQJVWUHDNIURP YLOOHLQ+RZHYHU8QLRQ HDU KLDWXV RQ WKH JULGLURQ WKHSUDFWLFHGXQGHUWKHOLJKWV DQGWKHZHUHH[FLWHGDERXWLW ORWDWVWDNHLQWKHWKPHHWLQJ WKHWHDPVKDYHWUDGHG County has not lost consecu- EHWZHHQWKHQHLJKERULQJFRP- ´,W ZDV JRRG WR VHH VR 7KLVVHDVRQLVJRLQJWRWDNHWKH EHWZHHQWKHORQJWLPHULYDOV WZRJDPH ZLQQLQJ VWUHDNV WLYHKRPHJDPHVWRWKH5HEHOV munities, with the Yellow Jack- PDQ SHRSOH WKHUHµ 6WRZH HQWLUH 3DQWKHU 1DWLRQ FRPLQJ 7KH VHULHV LV WLHG ZLWK WKH 5HEHOV SUHYDLOLQJ LQ VLQFH %ODLUVYLOOH·V+DUNLQVTXDOLÀHVIRU%DVV3UR7RXU By Todd Forrest ÀUVWRIVHYHQHYHQWVVFKHGXOHG Sports Editor IRU7KHWRXUDOVRZLOOYLVLW sports@nganews.com /RXLVLDQD 7HQQHVVHH 7H[DV New York and North Carolina. /RFDO DQJOHU :LOO +DU- When not on tour, Har- NLQV KDV TXDOLÀHG WR FRPSHWH NLQV VHUYHV DV D ÀVKLQJ JXLGH RQ0DMRU/HDJXH)LVKLQJ·V%DVV LQQRUWKHDVW*HRUJLDZKLOHDOVR 3UR7RXU %37 LQ ZRUNLQJ DV D FRQWUDFWRU DQG ´,·P UHDOO EOHVVHGµ KH YROXQWHHULQJDWKLVORFDOFKXUFK VDLG´7KLVLVDOLIHORQJGUHDP ´,·P VWLOO GRLQJ JXLGH I’m thankful for all the support WULSVDQGEXLOGLQJKRXVHVGXULQJ from friends and family, and the slow times, so I’m always ,·PH[FLWHGWRJRDQGFKDVHP VWDLQJEXVZLWKVRPHWKLQJµ GUHDPµ he said. “I teach at the church Harkins earned a spot on a couple of days a week and WKH%37EÀQLVKLQJVHYHQWKLQ do some mission trips with the WKH7DFNOH:DUHKRXVH3UR NLGVµ &LUFXLW SRLQWV VWDQGLQJV +LV Harkins thanked the best performance of the year %ODLUVYLOOH8QLRQ &RXQW FDPH DW 7HQQHVVHH·V :KHHOHU &KDPEHURI&RPPHUFH%XLOG- /DNHZLWKDIRXUWKSODFHÀQLVK HU·V )LUVW6RXUFH 5LYHU &LW in May. :LOO+DUNLQV / ZLWKRWKHU%DVV3URTXDOLIHUV %DQN+DUYH-D[RQDQG%UDVV- :LWK WKH UHJXODU VHDVRQ WDNHWKHWRSIRUDWKUHHGD ZLOOEHWKHODVWELJHYHQWXQWLO WRZQ3URSHUW0DQDJHPHQWIRU wrapped up, Harkins has one VKRRWRXWIRUµ WKH FKDPSLRQVKLS %XW ZH WU their support. PRUH HYHQW LQ ³ WKH Harkins also will com- to stay busy, and we’re always ´7KRVH DUH WKH PDLQ 7DFNOH :DUHKRXVH 3UR &LUFXLW pete in a pro-am tournament in ÀVKLQJVRPHZKHUHµ sponsors that make this pos- &KDPSLRQVKLS LQ .LVVLPPHH 0LFKLJDQRQ$XJ $IWHU WDNLQJ WLPH RII VLEOHµKHVDLG´7KLVLVH[SHQ- )ORULGDRQ6HSW ´,·PDOZDVVWDLQJEXV WKURXJK WKH KROLGDV +DUNLQV VLYH7KHUH·VDORWRIWLPHDQG ´7KDW ZLOO EH D IXQ ZLWKUHJLRQDODQGORFDOWRXUQD- EHJLQVWKH%37VHDVRQLQPLG WUDYHODQGDOOWKRVHJXVPDNH HYHQWµ +DUNLQV VDLG ´7KH PHQWVµ KH VDLG ´7KH SURDP -DQXDUDW3DODWND)ORULGDWKH LWDZKROHORWHDVLHUµ 7KH2OG8QLRQ:RPHQ·V*ROI$VVRFLDWLRQ*DPHRI Learn to the Day: Quick Draw Nine brings friendly competition Play Pickleball and second place was Martha Great job, ladies 7KH %ODLUVYLOOH 3LFNOH- =LPPHU )OLJKW & ÀUVW SODFH 'XULQJ WKLV SUROLÀF ball Club, in conjunction with ZLQQHUZDV&RQQLH/HLSVDQG URXQG WKHUH ZHUH VL[ FKLS WKH 8QLRQ &RXQW 5HF 'H- VHFRQGSODFHZLQQHUZDV(YLH LQV&RQJUDWXODWLRQVWR5DFK- SDUWPHQW KROG IUHH EHJLQQLQJ 0LOOHU )OLJKW ' ÀUVW SODFH elle Cronje for two chip-ins. SLFNOHEDOO FODVVHV 7XHVGDV winner was Sandy Schneider .DOQ .LJKW &RQQLH /HLSV DW 30 ZHDWKHU SHUPLWWLQJ and second place winner was /LQGD %HQHGLFW DQG 'RQQD &ODVVHV FRQWLQXH WKURXJK 2FW WK 1R UHJLVWUDWLRQ LV UH- 3DXOD 6WUDWWRQ )OLJKW ( ÀUVW 7LSWRQ HDFK UHFRUGHG RQH TXLUHG DQG DOO UHTXLUHG HTXLS- place winner was Judy Mc- FKLSLQ&ORVHVWWRWKH3LQRQ PHQWLVSURYLGHG3OHDVHZHDU 7KH 2OG 8QLRQ :RP- Culley and second place win- +ROH ZDV ZRQ E .DOQ sneakers, no crocs, slides, etc. HQ·V *ROI $VVRFLDWLRQ JDWK- QHUZDV6KHLOD%DJJHWW .LJKWZKRVHWHHVKRWÀQLVKHG &HUWLÀHGLQVWUXFWRUVZLOOWHDFK HUHGRQFHDJDLQDW2OG8QLRQ ,Q WKH %HOO 'LYLVLRQ DQ LPSUHVVLYH IHHW DQG WKH FODVVHV DQG DOO DJHV DUH Golf Course on Monday, July WKH ÀUVW SODFH ZLQQHU ZDV inches from the hole. A total ZHOFRPH 7KH FODVVHV WDNH IRU DQRWKHU IXQ PRUQLQJ 3DW 6WULFNODQG DQG VHFRQG RI ZDVSDLGRXWLQWKHSRW place at the outdoor courts RI JROI DQG IHOORZVKLS 7KH SODFH KRQRUV ZHQW WR /QQ for the day’s competition. DW WKH 8QLRQ &R 3LFNOHEDOO JDPH RI WKH GD ZDV 4XLFN :HLO 7KHUH ZHUH IRXU ELUG- )ROORZLQJ JROI WKH OD- &RPSOH[ DW &KDVH 'ULYH 'UDZ1LQH LHVUHFRUGHGGXULQJWKHURXQG GLHV HQMRHG OXQFK WRJHWKHU 1H[WWR5HF&HQWHU As the ladies teed off, &RQJUDWXODWLRQV WR 5DFKHOOH DW%ODLUVYLOOH·VQHZHVWUHVWDXthe clubhouse randomly se- Cronje, who carded two bird- UDQW6NOLQH:LQJV 7KLQJV Mountain High OHFWHG QLQH RI WKH KROHV LHV ZKLOH .DOQ .LJKW DQG where they continued their and only those nine holes -DFTXH 7UDLO HDFK UHFRUGHG IXQ DQG IHOORZVKLS 7KLV LV Hikers Schedule were used to determine the 0RXQWDLQ +LJK +LNHUV one birdie. DQ DPD]LQJ JURXS RI ZRPHQ offers three hikes in the local ZLQQHUV )LYH ÁLJKWV ZHUH 7KH 6NLQV *DPH DOVR who meet every Monday for DUHD HDFK ZHHN 7XHVGDV D SDLG DORQJ ZLWK WKH %HOO 'L- SURGXFHG VRPH JUHDW UHVXOWV JDPHGDDQGHYHU7KXUVGD ORQJKLNHIURPPLOHVDQG YLVLRQ 7KH %HOO 'LYLVLRQ LV &QWKLD 3DQWHU$SULO /DFDYD IRU ¶)XQ 'D· IURP 0D WR D VKRUWHU KLNH RI PLOHV GHVLJQHG DV DQ HQWU OHYHO DQG 'RQQD 7LSWRQ HDFK ZRQ 2FWREHU 7KXUVGD ZH OHDG D OHLVXUH division for those ladies who WZR VNLQV 5DFKHOOH &URQMH If you are interested in hike usually around 5 miles. DUH KRQLQJ WKHLU VNLOOV RU MXVW &RQQLH/HLSVDQG0DU0RWW MRLQLQJ WKLV IXQ DQG DFWLYH :H DOVR PDLQWDLQ RYHU OHDUQLQJWKHJDPHRIJROI each won one skin. JURXS RI ODGLHV ZKR GLVSOD miles of trails in North Geor- )OLJKW$ ÀUVWSODFHZLQ- ,Q WKH %HOO 'LYLVLRQ DOOOHYHOVRIJROIVNLOOSOHDVH JLD DQG :HVWHUQ 1& DUHD DQG QHU ZDV 5DFKHOOH &URQMH DQG WKHUH ZHUH VNLQV &RQ- FRQWDFW .DUHQ 0XVVROLQH run trail maintenance hikes second place went to Shirley JUDWXODWLRQVWR-RDQQH$UQROG DW RU &Q- RQ 7KXUVGDV HDFK ZHHN )RU 'DOODV )OLJKW % ÀUVW SODFH ZKR ZRQ VL[ VNLQV DQG /QQ WKLD 3DQWHU DW more info visit www.moun- ZLQQHU ZDV 1DQF 2XWODZ Weil who won seven skins. 1 $XJ= &$ WDLQKLJKKLNHUVRUJ
Page 12A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 1HZ<+&DWKOHWLFGLUHFWRUVKDUHVYLVLRQZLWK6KDNHUV By Daysha Pandolph “I can’t brag on this North Georgia News group enough,” Ross said. Staff Writer “They are fantastic. They have HIAWASSEE – The been a godsend in so many Mountain Movers and Shakers ways for me personally.” welcomed new Young Harris For YHC Senior Vice College Athletic Director President Mark Dotson, having Michael Ross to the Sundance Ross on the team has been Grill on Friday morning, July much the same. 31, to introduce his new “We’re very lucky to leadership team and share have him,” Dotson said. “He’s his vision for the future of D YHU ÀQH RXQJ PDQ 9HU Mountain Lion Athletics. intelligent, very passionate “I’m excited to see what about what he wants to do we’re able to do this year. with Young Harris, and very I truly believe that we have passionate about student a great team ahead of us,” athletes.” Ross said. “We’ve got a very Ross graduated from established coaching core that Union County High School is passionate about what they LQ EHIRUH DWWHQGLQJ do. They’re excited. They’re Georgia College and State ready to get started with their for two years. He later student athletes.” transferred to Piedmont That team is made up of College, now called Piedmont Associate Athletic Director for University, to earn a degree in Compliance Jamie Grodecki, history before going back to Assistant Director of Athletics school for kinesiology at the for Sports Communications University of Georgia. Chandler Davis, Assistant At UGA, Ross helped /5 <RXQJ+DUULV&ROOHJHVWDII(G6FKDHIIHU-DPLH*URGHFNL&KDQGOHU'DYLV$OOLH&UDLJ&UXFH0LFKDHO5RVVDQG:DQH Athletic Director for Sports an associate start a training0F&XOORXJKDWWKH0RXQWDLQ0RYHUVDQG6KDNHUVRQ)ULGD Photo by Daysha Pandolph M e d i c i n e E d S c h a e ff e r, organization called Advanced happy to finally be back in but I want this to be home (to engaged with the community.” things of that nature, but also Assistant Athletic Director Hoops Training, then later Young Harris. them) too. I want them to want To boost community (to) turn around at their games for External Operations Allie started his own training “This is home,” Ross to come back like the rest of engagement, Ross said he will and see you in the stands.” Craig Cruce, and Assistant company called Elite Level said. “I want us to pour into us did. It’s important to me.” encourage student athletes to Before the Movers and Athletic Director for Facilities Training. Though his career our student athletes and make Ross said his priorities YROXQWHHUZLWKORFDOQRQSURÀW Shakers meeting wrapped up and Game Operations Wayne has taken him across the sure that they’re successful i n c l u d e t r a i n i n g s t u d e n t o rg a n i z a t i o n s a n d o t h e r on Friday, McCullough gave McCullough. Southeast, Ross said he is when they leave this place, athletes to be strong, highly community groups. However, an update on planned athletic c o m p e t i t i v e l e a d e r s a n d he asked that the community facility improvements for the encouraging them to be active return the favor by attending next year. GA license # 381349 NC license # 337004 in the surrounding community. athletic events. He said the college is “I want them to grow “We’d love to see y’all expecting a new soccer and to be good men and women, at games,” Ross said. “I think lacrosse scoreboard, a new first and foremost,” Ross it goes a really long way to see softball scoreboard and shot said. “Second, I want them both sides of that relationship clocks for the basketball arena. GEORGIA MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE OPTIONS to compete as hard as they really, really be built and YHC also plans to add a press EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS! possibly can … and another fostered. My vision is for our box with permanent restrooms key component for me, as students to organically go out at the soccer and lacrosse Shawn Rudd, we move forward, is to get … to volunteer their time and complex next summer. Broker/Owner 706.897.7227 • ruddrealtor@yahoo.com • www.gmreo.com 1324 Fairview Church Road, UCHS Students Volunteer at the Blairsville, Ga Humane Society Mountain Shelter $699,900 2.41 Unrestricted Acres 4 Bedrooms/3 Baths Built in 2018 2342 square feet Very Gentle Terrain Close To Town Whole House Generator Wood Burning Fireplace No HOA Open Floor Plan Union County High School Cross Country Team — A 55+ COMMUNITY — Union County High School Football Team The Mountain Shelter extends its heart- ZRUNORRNVOLNH³RQDQGRIIWKHÀHOGµ felt thanks to the Union County High School If you or your organization are interested HOMES, Cross Country and Football Teams for their outstanding volunteer service. in volunteering at the Mountain Shelter or our 7KULIW6WRUHSOHDVHFDOO STARTING AT $315,000 "Their hard work, compassion, and com- The Mountain Shelter & Thrift Store are mitment supported essential shelter operations D F FKDULW and improved the lives of the animals in our To donate visit https://www.mtnshelter. ARE MOVING FAST. care. Thank you for showing what true team- org/donate. ACT NOW! American Red Cross Volunteers Make a difference in your community! As a volun- teer with the American Red Cross, you can help families UHFRYHU DIWHU D KRPH ÀUH WUDLQ LQGLYLGXDOV LQ ÀUVW DLG and CPR, support America’s military families, or take on any number of other roles that make our communities safer, stronger and more resilient. Get started at https://www.red- cross.org/local/georgia/volun- teer.html or call your NWGA FKDSWHU RIÀFH WR DVN DERXW volunteer opportunities 844- Celina: 706.745.5565 $ CASH 4 $ wesleymountainvillage.org $ $ GOLD $ $ $ $ $ Jewelry $ LOCATED A MILE AND A $ $ SILVER $ $ HALF FROM THE SQUARE IN $ $ Jewelry $ $ BLAIRSVILLE. $ $ Labosco’s at the $ $ $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ $ 706-745-0097 $ CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING!
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 1B 93 Lori Lane - $485,000 Quality-Built Home with Great Bones – Ready for Your Personal Updates! • 1.46 Acres with Mild Restrictions & • Kitchen with Cherry Wood Cabinets, • 24x30 Detached Two-Car Garage with No HOA Tile Countertops & Bay Window Workshop Space • Minutes to Deaver’s Public Boat Ramp Dining Area • Standing Seam Metal Roof on Lake Nottely • Main-Level Primary Suite with Private • Tankless Water Heater • Enjoy Boating, Fishing, Kayaking, Porch, Walk-In Closet & Private Bath • Public Water, Underground Utilities Paddleboarding & Swimming Without • Half Bath on Main Level for Guests & High-Speed Fiber Internet Lakefront Prices • Two Spacious Upstairs Bedrooms & • Plenty of Room for a Garden, Outdoor • Inviting Rocking Chair Front Porch Full Bath Living & Recreation • Spacious Living Room with • Full Daylight Basement with Finished • Explore Union County’s Award-Winning Wood-Burning Fireplace 3rd Bath, Laundry Room, Wood Stove Vineyards, Wineries, Hiking Trails & • Poured Concrete Foundation & Room to Expand Waterfalls RE/MAX Town & Country 166 Young Harris St, Ste A Blairsville, GA 30512 0YGVIXME'SPPMRW8IEQ ' 706.745.5698 Lucretia@LCTeam.com L 4 P W W www.LCTeam.com To Blue Ridge Mountain ® Our EMC Community: We—Danny Henson, Jeff Ledford, and Bert Rogers—are running for reelection for the Board of Directors at the Blue Ridge Mountain EMC. We have had the privilege of serving you and would like to continue supporting our community through our work with the EMC. D a n n y H e n s o n Since becoming board members, we have collaborated with our other board members to add $100 million in plant upgrades that supply your power. We have also helped bring the Internet to over 59% of our customers and are currently adding close to 120 customers per month. We recognize that reliable Internet today is as important to our members as power was in the 1930s. Our goal is to have the Internet GHYHORSHGDQGDYDLODEOHWRDOORIRXUFXVWRPHUVLQWKHQH[WÀYHHDUV which will allow us to lower our power rates. It is important to note that we have currently accomplished the buildout without borrowing Jeff Ledford any money. The 10-year work plan includes adding substations to continue providing you with reliable power and meet the growing needs of our region. However, we would like to emphasize that we do not want to see any data centers in our communities and will continue to advocate for intentional development to support our customers’ needs while maintaining the rich mountain traditions and sense of community we all love and value. We would be honored to have your vote for reelection on the Blue Ridge Mountain EMC Board, and we look forward to continuing to work for our members! Bert Rogers
Page 2B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 Church News in the Mountains of North Georgia Pastor Jerry Helton shares the Mission of the Fellowship Why the Church Baptizes People of All Ages of Christian Athletes with Union County Rotary Club At the font, the Church sus told him, “Today you will be Pastor The Union County Ro- welcomes people at every stage with Me in paradise.” Through Tim Handrick tary Club recently welcomed of life. This year at All Saints, that Word, Christ gave forgive- we have witnessed adults con- ness, hope, and eternal life. All Saints Pastor Jerry Helton, who Lutheran fess the faith and be baptized. Christ still makes and shared how the Fellowship of keeps promises to us through Church This past Sunday, parents car- Christian Athletes is making a ried an infant who could not yet His Word as it is read, preached, timhandrick. difference in the lives of local speak to the font. In both cases, taught, and spoken. He joins allsaints@gmail.com coaches and student-athletes. the Church baptizes because Je- His Holy Word to water in Bap- Your sins are forgiven. You be- FCA has served coaches sus commanded it and God acts tism and to bread and wine in long to Him. and athletes since 1954 with through it. the Lord’s Supper. These are Having received this the belief that God has given Before His ascension, the means He uses to continue grace, we are now called to them a unique platform to glo- Jesus told His Church to make delivering grace to His Church daily live in it so that “we too rify Him. Pastor Jerry under- disciples of “all nations,” bap- today. might walk in newness of life” stands that platform firsthand, tizing them in the name of the Baptism does not limit (Romans 6:4). having previously served as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and God’s mercy. It gives us assur- If you or a family memboth a middle school and high teaching them His Word (Mat- ance in something outside of ber are not currently baptized, school coach. Since 2020, he thew 28:19–20). He placed no ourselves. At the font, God is I would love to have a discushas become affectionately age requirement on this gift. On showing us the strength of His sion with you about receiving known as “Grandpa” to many Pentecost, Peter said, “Repent promise: Christ has chosen you. this gift! Union County athletes through and be baptized,” adding, “The his consistent encouragement, Jerry Helton with President Steve Cavanaugh promise is for you and for your Sleep in Heavenly Peace Volunteers mentorship, and presence. that vision by being present, accident. The student will children” (Acts 2:38–39). The All children deserve a mattress and bedding from the FCA provides several building trust and encouraging share his faith journey, how New Testament also records safe, comfortable place to lay trailer parked at the church and opportunities for students to young people during both their the experience has affected whole households being bap- their heads. Across the US, too off we went. grow in their faith. Club meet- victories and their challenges. him, and what the upcoming tized. many boys and girls go with- We were greeted by a ings held before school twice FCA will host a special season will look like as he Baptism is more than a out a bed—or even a pillow— young mother and her young each month regularly attract Fields of Faith event on Sun- continues moving forward. person’s public statement of to sleep on. Children end up son holding his stuffed animal. between 50 and 100 students, day, August 23, at 5 p.m. at the commitment. Scripture calls it sleeping on couches, blankets, Still in his jammies he watched while Union County High Fine Arts Center. The after- Revival at a washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit (Ti- and even floors which affects with excitement as we as- School students meet every noon will include food, games, Thursday morning in Room and an inspiring testimony New Harmony tus 3:5). Paul says that through health, happiness and educa- tion. That’s where Sleep in sembled the bed components finishing with the mattress and Baptism we are joined to 279. Pastor Jerry also sends out a Bible verse each Tuesday from a Union County football player who was injured in an Baptist Church Christ’s death and resurrection Heavenly Peace comes in. bedding. His mom was excit- New Harmony Baptist (Romans 6:3–5). Peter writes, We’re a group of volunteers edly telling him about his new and maintains a prayer line dedicated to building, assem- bed, his cool new sheets, piland prayer chain to support Bethlehem Church will be starting our revival August 2-7. Sunday “Baptism now saves you,” because its power rests in the bling and delivering top-notch low and blanket. His smile lit students, coaches and their families. Baptist Church night at 6 PM and Monday to resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 beds to children and families in need. The organization is up the little bedroom and as he clutched his stuffed animal Friday at 7 PM. Pastor Jaron Peter 3:21). Baptism is God’s Another important part of the ministry is its nine char- Kids movie night Whitmore will be having Rev. promise of faithfulness to us. making a difference, one bed tightly, he climbed on the bed Bethlehem Baptist Brian Clayton and Rev. Paul The Church does not wait at a time. to try it out. My heart melted. acter coaches. These volun- Local residents Doug Through Sleep in Heavteers spend time with athletic Church Kids movie night ages Ray Morgan helping him. We until someone understands ev- 5+ on Friday, August 7th. will have special singers each erything. None of us comes to Murphy and Jerome Laux enly Peace, Jerome and the teams, lead devotions and of- took the initiative to start a many other volunteers made Please come join us and bring night. Everyone is welcome! Christ because we have underfer support whenever needed. a friend! Food will be served local chapter. As of Janu- this family’s day as they hum- Their primary purpose is to stood enough, chosen wisely from 6-6:30 PM; Movie starts ary 2026, Sleep in Heavenly bly, quietly go about the misbuild meaningful relationships at 7 PM; Showing “David” Interested in the enough, or made ourselves worthy. Jesus says we must re- Peace, Blairsville, GA has had sion of making sure every with coaches and athletes while helping them grow both (2025). Popcorn will be served Catholic faith? ceive the kingdom like a little its own dedicated chapter, and at its 6-month mark at least child has a bed. I was fortu- nate to have the opportunity during the movie. child. Whether eight days old or personally and spiritually. Call 828-371-3340 for Have you ever won- 111 beds have been delivered to learn just how important the dered what Catholics do at eighty years old, we come emp- FCA’s vision is “to see more information. Address: ty-handed, and God gives His locally. St. Clare’s bed ministry and the world transformed by Je- 2043 State Hwy. 325, Blairs- Mass? Why do they do what Serving Union and Sleep in Heavenly Peace is to grace. Whoever receives this sus Christ through the influ- ville, GA 30512. N(Aug5,Z3)CA they do, and what do they be- grace must remain in Christ and Towns counties, it will soon our wonderful community. ence of coaches and athletes.” lieve? Come and investigate not reject His Word to receive expand its ministry to Mor- If you are interested in Pastor Jerry and the other volunteers are working toward Zion Baptist the Catholic faith. Informational weekly the benefit of it, eternal life. ganton and Suches. participating in this important Infant baptism is not a re- Volunteer opportunities ministry, go to shpbeds.org, Church Services gatherings continue and it’s not cent invention. Early Christians include making and deliver- and select the Georgia-Blairs- Shady Grove UMC Join us at Zion Church, too late to join us on Wednes- described baptizing children as ing beds. On a recent Saturday ville Chapter to sign up for Suches each Sunday at 11 days at 6pm at St. Francis of an established practice, recog- morning, Jerome invited me to the next bed build, sponsored 1604 Owltown Road AM, “Mega Signs for Our Assisi Catholic Church, 3717 nizing that they share human- help deliver and set up a bed. by Lowe’s in Murphy, NC on Lord’s Return”. Zion Church Hwy 515/76W, Blairsville. All ity’s need for salvation and are We met at St. Clare’s Episco- September 12th. Blairsville, GA is located at 10 Zion Road and adults welcome. For further pal church, a sponsoring or- Frank Kinmonth, included in Christ’s command. (706) 781-4729 Wolf Pen Gap Road (180) in information phone (706) 745- The thief on the cross ganization, and gathered bed Senior Warden Suches. 6400 ext. 2. also received grace as a gift. Je- rails, headboard, footboard, St. Clare’s Episcopal Church St. Francis of Assisi Mount Hebron Baptist Church Mountain Presbyterian Church Catholic Church We invite YOU to Come Worship With Us! ŝŽĐĞƐĞŽĨƚůĂŶƚĂ Unity Church Fr. Cong Nguyen, Pastor 3737 Hwy. 515 E, Blairsville /HGIRUG5RDG%ODLUVYLOOH VWFODUHVHSLVFRSDORUJ of the Mountains 706-745-6400 2309 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville www.stfrancisblairsville.com Come worship with us Sunday Worship +RO(XFKDULVWLQSHUVRQDQGRQ )DFHERRN6XQGD $0 706-781-3393 Saturday Vigil: Service Times: Sunday mornings at 11 AM 11:00 am DQG:HGQHVGD 30 A path to 4:30 PM & 6:30 PM (Spanish) Sunday Morning: 10:30 AM with Fellowship following. Sunday School 10:00 am Weekday Morning Prayer - 8 AM :HHNGD0RUQLQJ3UDHU $0 spiritual living. Sunday Masses: 8:30 & 11 AM Wednesday: 7:00 PM 3831 GA-515 | Blairsville &RPSOLQH 30 )DFHERRNRQO Sunday Service 10:30 Sharing the love of Jesus in the 1237 Booger Hollow Rd. 706-745-8036 Rev. Alex Nixon 7KH5HY/L]6FKHOOLQJHUKRXGW UnityChurchoftheMountains.org North Georgia Mountains and beyond 678-428-7118 Pastor Deron Shuler mtnpres.org Blairsville Seventh-day Fundamental Adventist Chuch Independent 215 Watkins Road | Blairsville, GA 30512 Sunday School.......10:00 a.m. 706-835-1726 Sunday Worship....11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening...... 5:00 p.m. Pastor Valentin Rusu Wednesday............ 7:00 p.m. Saturday Bible Study ... 9:20 AM Saturday Worship Service ... 11 AM 4231 Trackrock Gap Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Thursday Food Pantry ... 10 AM - 2 PM Timothy L. Mason, Pastor Thursday Hot Meal ... 11 AM - 1 PM 706-745-3130 - Church Phone • www.slbcga.org Welcome to God ’s House I was glad when they said, “Let us go to the House of the Lord.” This church feature is sponsored by these civic minded businesses KING Brasstown Manor Hemphill Vinyl Siding Valley Mountain Motors Murphy, NC Where you are treated like Royalty! Senior Living & Metal RooÀng 706-632-5357 Clothing Shoes Appliances Furniture SALES - LEASING - SERVICE - RENTAL 706-896-4285 154 Kelley Road 7535 Appalachian Hwy. Groceries Sporting Goods Jewelry 828.837.2121 / KingFordSales.com / 800.388.2897 108 Church Street, Hiawassee Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-6450 2450 W US Hwy 64, Murphy, North Carolina 28906 www.BrasstownManorSeniorLiving.com 745-3145 • 745-9006 Blue Ridge, GA GA MTN GRINDING TURPIN’S & RECYCLING “ “ WRECKER They say love is the best investment; the more Screened Topsoil, Mulch, Fill Dirt, Erosion Control Supply you give, the more you get in return. SERVICE blairsville 706.400.5043 (King’s Hometown Pharmacy) -Audrey Hepburn 24/7 Towing & Emergency Roadside Services 241 GRINDER ROAD, BLAIRSVILLE murphy 828.837.7474 706-835-2000 • 706-994-4818 706-896-4138 hayesville 828.516.9950 KingsRxAndWellness.com 706-896-4936 MON-FRI 8AM-5PM | SAT 8AM-NOON Give It Away @kingsrxandwellness | @kingshometownpharmacy McKinney L ove is not something that we can store or save like we Heating & Air Conditioning can with money or material possessions. Love is better thought of as both a feeling and an action, and “When Comfort Counts!” in fact a feeling that often comes naturally when we act in loving ways. And thus, it makes sense that we have more 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville, GA 706-745-8097 148 Smith St. love the more that we give away. That is, the more that we Mindy Allen / Ria Storm act in a loving manner, the more love we will get directed 706-896-1800 back to us and the more loving and lovable we will feel. Like 706-781-7945 so many things in life, we often must take a leap of faith and North Georgia News act with love and kindness to those around us and that Business Cards, Stationery, same love that we give will come right back to us. It’s as simple as smiling at others and being generous when we JACKY CHRYSLER Labels, Banners, Invitations, 706-745-6343 can. There are endless ways in which we can be loving, and we always know when we aren’t being so. JONES "I>A? RafÁe Tickets & More! (??J® THE BEST PLACE –Christopher Simon 0;G West Printing Co. FOR LOCAL NEWS AND ADVERTISING! HAYESVILLE, NC • (828) 389-1958 706-745-6343
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3B Church News in the Mountains of North Georgia Homecoming at Cornerstone Baptist Your Patriot Inestimable value: Help for today and hope for tomorrow An oldy-goldy Ameri- sucked in air from the outside Reflection can hymn is “Count your through open windows. In the blessings, name them one by summer, it would be hot air, The Rev. Victor H. Morgan one.” No doubt spiritual bless- but at least you got a breeze. Rector ings should be high on every- And then there were porches, St. Luke’s one’s list, but why not more which offered a place of es- Church mundane things? In view of cape and relative comfort. A Blue Ridge the warm and humid tempera- memory from my youth was tures of the past few weeks, every member of the family less working outside, operate why not – for example – pencil sitting on the front porch as in climate-controlled environ- in ‘air conditioning’? the sun went down shelling ments. It helps us to be more Air conditioning has not peas or butter beans and talk- efficient and better tempered. always been universal. The ing . . . no cell phones in those Yet, most of the time, we take White House did not get a long-gone days. it for granted . . . that is, until comprehensive, building-wide Nostalgia cast aside, I the system goes down. Manifest Destiny cooling system until the Tru- remember a few nights a year Blessings come in all All historians agree that man renovation which took when your mattress felt like a shapes and sizes. At the top a most singular and impor- place between 1948 and 1952. heating pad. It was miserable. of the list should certainly be tant feature of the settlers of Into the 1960s, air con- The only cooling you had was spiritual ones, those which America was their overpower- ditioning was often used as an a buzz fan on a dresser aimed flow from God’s grace. If we ing sense of mission-A convic- enticement for businesses to in your direction. It didn’t do are Christians, through the tion that they were taking part draw in trade. For example, I much, but it was something. sacrifice of Christ once of- in the unfolding of a manifest remember as a boy going with Some of my friends did fered, our past mistakes have destiny of divine design which my parents to a restaurant that live in houses which had air been scrubbed away. We have would shower its blessings on had on its plate-glass window conditioning, usually a Fed- been given a new slate on all mankind. It was of great a decal with a picture of a ders unit in a window. The which to write life’s story. We moral value. It gave them pack of Alpine cigarettes and downside was that these small have help for today and hope clearness of purpose and con- the words “Come in, it’s air post-war houses had no front for tomorrow. All of these are The Devoted Disciples cooled.” porch, which meant they had of inestimable value. centration of strength, and Cornerstone Baptist made up of Cher Hammond contributed towards making Hotels, motels and the- no place to shell peas and Go ahead and count your Church in Young Harris will Smith, Wanda Joy Dodd, and them a people of indestructible atres would likewise include in beans and talk! blessings. You will be surhave Homecoming on Sunday, Danny Howell. The Devoted vitality and aggressive energy. their advertisements the words Schools in those days prised what the Lord has done, August 9, 2026, celebrating 35 Disciples will be sharing their As John Adams wrote “Air conditioned.” Now, of were likewise largely without but let’s not get too ‘spiritual’. years; the service will begin at testimonies in song. from England, while the con- course, if you checked into a air conditioning. At least in the Why not, on a sultry summer 10:30 a.m. The service will be fol- stitution was in preparation: hotel and found your room first few weeks in September, day, throw in air conditioning? Special singers will be lowed by a covered dish meal. “The people of America have without air conditioning, you classrooms could be brutal. LET thy merciful ears, The Devoted Disciples from Everyone is welcome. now the best opportunity and would be out before you put The same was true in colleges. O Lord, be open to the prayers Stockbridge, GA. Cornerstone Baptist the greatest trust in their hands down your suitcases. When I would take classes in of thy humble servants; and, This Southern Gospel Church is located at 163 Crane that providence ever commit- In the same period, the summer, I would pick ones that they may obtain their Group, formed in 2022, is Creek Road. NT(Aug5,Z5)CA ted to so small a number.” homes often lacked this ame- that met early in the morning petitions, make them to ask James Madison said it nity. The house in which I to avoid the extreme heat. such things as shall please best: “They accomplished a grew up was built in the 1920s Of course, now all that thee; through Jesus Christ our revolution which has no paral- and had an attic fan which has changed. Most of us, un- Lord. Amen. N(Aug5,Z8)CA lel in the annals of human soci- ety. They formed the design of a great confederacy, which it is Creating Holiness: Why the Manna Had to Stop incumbent on their successors Imagine waking up to- A pillar of cloud guided them to improve and perpetuate.” morrow morning to find break- by day and a pillar of fire by Rabbi My question is this: fast waiting outside your door. night. Holiness was impos- Yonatan What has happened over the Not delivered by a neighbor. sible to miss. Wouldn’t that be Hambourger Please join elected of- mer Mayor Jim Conley is the Not dropped off by a delivery the ideal spiritual life? ficials, Pastors, Community facilitator. course of our history that has TASTE OF changed our view, from mani- service. Food from heaven it- The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Leaders, and concerned citi- For more information, self. No grocery shopping. No Rabbi Menachem Mendel TORAH zens as they meet to pray for you may visit our website: fest destiny, to global oneness and one world government? meal planning. No wonder- Schneerson, explains that the our nation, its leaders and re- awakeamericaprayermeetings. ing how the bills will be paid. answer is no. The wilderness yesterday. But eventually the vival for America. This meet- org; Facebook: AAPM PSA Think about it! A Patriot Reflection is Every morning, exactly what was never meant to be perma- service ends. The prayer coning is held every 1st Thursday group, or 706-374-6175 ext. you need appears. Most of us nent. It was a training ground. cludes. Monday morning arof each month at 11:59 a.m. at 302; Contact Coordinator: presented by www.joshuas- warriors.org. NT(Aug5,Z5)CA would consider that a miracle G-d did not bring the rives. The question is whether the Blairsville City Hall. For- Lydia Long. N(Aug5,Z3)CA worth keeping. Jewish people into the des- the inspiration remains. Yet in Parshat Re’eh, ert so they could spend their Can we bring patience Union County Fellowship of Fairview Baptist Moses prepares the Jewish lives surrounded by miracles. into a frustrating meeting? Christian Athletes “Fields of Faith” Church Services people for the end of precisely such a miracle. For forty years He brought them there so they could learn how to recognize Integrity into a difficult deci- sion? Kindness into an ordi- Union County Fellow- 250 students. You are invited to join they had eaten manna from Him before entering a world nary conversation? Gratitude ship of Christian Athletes will For an evening of fun, us at Fairview Baptist Church heaven. Now they were about where His presence would be into routines we usually overbe hosting their 2nd Annual faith and fellowship that you for a wonderful time of wor- to enter the Land of Israel, less obvious. The real chal- look? Anyone can feel uplifted “Fields of Faith” on Sunday, won’t forget. Mark your cal- ship and fellowship. Sunday where they would plow fields, lenge would begin after the when surrounded by inspira- August 23rd, 5-8 PM at The endars and be there! school -10 AM; Worship ser- raise livestock, and provide miracles ended. tion. The greater challenge is Fine Arts Center! For more information vice - 11 AM; Evening service for themselves. As Moses tells In the wilderness, holi- to carry that inspiration into The theme this year is or if you want to invest in the - 6 PM. Address is 10 Fairview them, “When the L-rd your ness came looking for them. everyday life. “A Living Hope”. Our focus ministry of Union County FCA Church Road. G-d enlarges your boundary... In the Land of Israel, they Perhaps that is why the is on Middle and High School you can contact Jerry Helton at Come and experience and you say, ‘I will eat meat,’ would have to bring holiness manna had to stop. Not bestudents, but everyone is wel- 706-781-4362 or email: jerry- the joy encouragement and because you desire to eat meat, into farms, businesses, homes, cause it was too holy, but become. Free tee shirt for first helton@fca.org. N(Aug5,Z3)CA presence of the Lord with us. you may eat meat whenever and marketplaces. They would cause there was a higher task We look forward to welcom- your soul desires” (Deuteron- have to discover meaning not waiting beyond it. The goal Griefshare Seminar Beginning at ing you. Rev. Tommy Jones omy 12:20). in food that fell from heaven, was never to live surrounded Why would G-d take but in food they planted, har- by miracles. The goal was to Mcconnell Memorial Baptist Church N(Aug5,Z2)CA away something so extraor- vested, prepared, and shared. become the kind of people Starting on Thursday, is $20 for the workbook and Reece Reunion dinary? The question is even That challenge remains ours. who could create holiness August 27, 2026 – November scholarships are available. The descendants of stronger when we consider Most of us have mo- even when the miracles were 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM – 12:30 To register for this ses- Quiller Frank & Eliza Logan what life in the wilderness ments when faith feels easy. A gone. PM, McConnell Memorial sion, participants may go onto Reece are holding their an- was like. The people lived sur- worship service inspires us. A I wish you a good week Baptist Church in Hiawas- the GriefShare.org website nual family reunion on Sun- rounded by visible reminders prayer moves us. A conversa- and Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi see, GA, located at 84 Church and under “Find a Session”, day, August 9th, from 11 AM of the Divine Presence. Their tion leaves us determined to Yonatan Hambourger; y@ Street, will be hosting an in- click on Hiawassee, GA and to 4 PM. The reunion will be food descended from heaven. become better than we were tasteoftorah.org NT(Aug5,Z11)CA person interdenominational the icon for McConnell Me- in Blairsville at Vogel State grief recovery program called morial Baptist and register, or Park’s Group Shelter. For Welcoming Light Handheld Sermon: Don’t GriefShare. come to our first session and more information, please call This program is a Bible- we will help you register. Underestimate the Next Generation A Non-Denominational Richard Reece at 205-601- Church in Blairsville. Please based program designed for For more information or 0836 or email Bretta Ogburn join us Sundays for Worship Have you ever watched men and women that have ex- additional assistance, please at brettao@gmail.com. N(Aug5,Z4) at 9 AM at G & G Bakery a group of teenagers and David Krout perienced the loss of a family call Chris at 706-896-2281, and Cafe and Wednesdays wondered, “What happened member, a loved one, or friend church office at MMBC or you Thursday Night New World at 6 PM for Bible Study and to this generation?” We see Harvest Church due to death. Participants will may contact the Program Di- them with their phones, headbe with facilitators who un- rector, Kimberly Hales at 248- TV Church Service potluck dinner also at G & G Bakery and Cafe. Our website phones, video games, and d_krout@ derstand their feelings of loss 318-3286. We look forward to Everyone is invited to is www.WelcomingLight.org social media, and it’s easy yahoo.com and have all experienced grief seeing you there! T(Aug5,A2)JT tune in every Thursday eve- where you can learn about our to think they aren’t ready for personally. ning to WGHC TV at 7 PM; Mission, Vision and Beliefs. life’s real battles. Today’s young people This is a 13-week semi- also on Facebook; wotgtv. nar with each class being a Free Bible studies com/ ROKU channel to hear N(Aug5,Z2)CA But then I remember face different giants. They stand alone session so that a The Eastside Church of Evangelist Evelyn Adams car- Liberty Hill David. Most Bible scholars be- battle anxiety, temptation, bul- lying, loneliness, addiction, Christ, Morganton, GA is ofperson is welcome to join anytime during the 13 weeks. The fering free Bible studies. You rying the Gospel around the world. Prayer requests call Church Services lieve David was somewhere and constant pressure to fit in. Liberty Hill Church, around 15 to 17 years old Their battlefield may look difin-person sessions will meet may request either mail cor- 706-671-7988. If Jesus speaks when he stood before Goliath. ferent from David’s, but it is in the Family Life Center at respondence or one-on-one. to your heart send any love of- “A Little Church with a Big Think about that for a mo- no less real. McConnell Memorial Bap- Please call 706-374-3262 for fering to P.O. Box 394, Fair- Heart”. We come together, ev- ment. While seasoned soldiers Instead of asking, tist Church, Room 219. Cost more information. N(Aug5,Z1)CA mont, GA 30139. N(Aug5,Z1)CA ery Sunday morning at 11 a.m. as a body of believers to wor- hid behind their shields, a “What’s wrong with this gener- teenage shepherd walked onto ation?” perhaps we should ask, Young Harris Jamboree returns Bunker Hill ship Jesus. We would love for you the battlefield carrying nothing “Are we helping them know with Western Classics this Friday Baptist Services to be part of our church fam- more than a sling, five smooth stones, and an unshakable the same God David knew?” Paul later wrote, “Don’t Bunker Hill Baptist ily! Our church is located at, faith in God. let anyone look down on you Church would like to invite 255 Liberty Hill Road, GA David wasn’t fearless because you are young, but you to worship with us. Sun- Hwy. 515, just across the Fan- because he was young. He was set an example for the believ- day School - 10 AM; Worship nin/Union County, GAN(Aug5,Z2)CA Line. fearless because he knew who ers...” (1 Timothy 4:12, NIV). - 11 AM. N(Aug5,Z1)CA stood beside him. Never underestimate Providence Harmony Grove Before facing Goliath, what God can do through a Baptist Children’s David had already trusted God young heart that is fully sur- Methodist while protecting sheep from rendered to Him. The next Clothing Ministry lions and bears. Those lonely David may already be in your Church Services The Children’s Clothing moments in the pasture be- home, your classroom, or sit- Providence Method- Ministry at Harmony Grove came the training ground for ting in the pew beside you. ist Church, 3075 Pat Colwell Baptist Church (1008 Town one of the greatest victories Encourage them. Pray Road, Blairsville, GA 30512; Creek School Road, Blairs- recorded in Scripture. Courage for them. Believe in them. Af- invites you to attend our Sun- ville) is open to the commu- wasn’t born on the battlefield; ter all, today’s shepherd boy day Church Service from 11 to nity by appointment only. it was built in quiet faithful- may become tomorrow’s giant 12 and Sunday School from 10 If there is a need for ness. slayer. NT(Aug5,Z16)CA to 11. children or teen clothes, please We are a small country contact the church office at Celebrate Recovery - church with a heritage of over 191 years. Welcome one and 706-835-1449 and leave a message. One of our volun- A Christ-Centered Recovery Program all! N(Aug5,Z2)CA teers will contact you as soon Celebrate Recovery is a need to stop denying the pain, as possible. N(Aug5,Z1)CA Christ-centered recovery pro- stop playing God, start admit- (L-R): John Cochran, Moriah Owenby and Wayne Owenby The Church of gram that meets every Thurs- ting our powerlessness, and start John Cochran and the West, Western swing, and in- Jesus Christ of Shady Grove day evening, 52 weeks a year. It is a safe place for individu- admitting that our lives have be- come unmanageable. We need a Cowhands will be perform- spirational songs. ing their Western Classics Moriah Owenby will be Latter-day Saints UMC Fundraiser als to begin their journey of power greater than ourselves to on Friday, August 7, at 6:30 singing songs from her recent Shady Grove United breaking free from all life's restore us and that Higher Pow- The Church of Jesus er is Jesus Christ! p.m. at the Stephens Lodge in trip to the Y Bar J Western Christ of Latter-day Saints Methodist Church is taking hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Young Harris. The address is Music and Poetry Camp in orders for their Rada Cutlery "I know that nothing Meetings are held every meets weekly on Sundays at Thursday evening in Build- 135 Murphy Street. There is Weatherford, Texas. 10 AM for Worship, 11 AM for fundraiser and will continue good lives in me, that is, in my no admission. Join the Cow- Stephens Lodge will throughout the year. sinful nature. For I have the ing G, 7-9 PM, at First Bap- Sunday School, and 7 PM on tist Church-Blairsville. If you hands, John Cochran, Moriah serve a light meal for those Tuesdays for scripture study. Contact JoAnn Hamby desire to do what is good, but Owenby and Wayne Owenby, wishing to eat, with meal pro- at 706-781-4828 for more in- I cannot carry it out" (Romans have any questions, email Please join us at 34 Rogers crfbcb@windstream.net or for an evening of entertain- ceeds going to their scholar- Street in Blairsville. All are formation; please leave a mes- 7:18). The power to change only ment featuring songs about the ship fund. NT(Aug5,Z16)CA sage. NT(Aug5,Z2)CA comes from God's grace. We call 706-781-6288. NT(Aug5,Z1)CA welcome to attend! NT(Aug5,Z2)CA
Page 4B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 WILLIAM “FARRIS” THOMAS RALPH STEVE D. JOHNSON MASHBURN KIMSEY, SR. Thomas Ralph Kimsey Mr. Steve D. Johnson Mr. William “Farris” Sr., age 84 of Hiawassee, Geor- of Blairsville, GA. formerly of Mashburn age 79 of Gum Log gia passed away Tuesday, July Toccoa, GA. passed away at his Rd. Blairsville passed away 28, 2026 at Brasstown Manor. home on July 31, 2026 after a peacefully on Sunday August 2, Ralph was born June 19, 1942 hard fought battle with cancer. 2026 in Pruitt Health Care of Blue to the late Andrew Joe and Ruth Born on January 13, 1957, Steve Ridge following an extended ill- (Ford) Kimsey in Mountain City, was the only child of Dewitt and BUDDY EUGENE JOHN WAYNE WILSON BARBARA JEAN ness. Mr. Mashburn was born on Georgia. Ralph was a cherished Hilda Mae Boatright Johnson of ALLISON Mr. John Wayne Wil- DANIEL GARNTO July 2, 1947 in Murphy, NC., the Alma, GA., where he was born father, grandfather, and friend, Buddy Eugene Allison, son, age 69, of Woodland Trails Barbara Jean Daniel Garn- son of the late Wendall Mashburn and his presence will be deeply and raised. He and his devoted 85, of Hiawassee, Georgia, Road, Dublin, GA, formerly of to, age 87, passed away peace- and the late Nannie Ree Bradley missed. He lived a long and won- wife Teresa Bass Johnson moved passed away peacefully on Mon- Fayetteville, GA, passed away fully at her home, with her son Mashburn. Farris was a lifelong derful life in Hiawassee, Geor- with their children to Toccoa day, July 27, 2026, at Northeast peacefully surrounded by his lov- and caregiver, Al Garnto, by her resident of Union County. He was gia, where everyone knew his in 1989 when Steve joined the Georgia Medical Center. ing family at his home in Dublin side. Barbara was born in Union born blind, but that never stopped name. He never met a stranger, Georgia Department of Natural Buddy was born on Janu- following an extended illness. County, November 24, 1938, him. He attended the School for and if he did they’d walk away Resources. After thirty years of ary 23, 1941, in White County, Mr. Wilson was born on Sep- and went to her Heavenly Home the blind in Macon, GA. His ex- as friends. He was known for his service at Tugaloo State Park, Georgia, to the late Walter and tember 25, 1956 in Young Har- Tuesday, July 28, 2026. She re- ceptional mind made up for his stories and ability to talk to any- they retired and moved to his Cora Allison. After proudly serv- ris, GA, the son of the late James sided in Union County all of her visual handicap. He could read one everywhere he went. If you dream home in Blairsville where ing his country for two years in Ford Wilson and the late Jennie life. She was employed at Union brail, name all of the states back- had the privilege of meeting him, he enjoyed his time feeding the the United States Army, Buddy Cordellia Plott Wilson. Mr. Wil- County Nursing Home for over wards, name the Atlanta Braves he likely asked you where your wildlife, enjoying the beautiful became a self-educated civil en- son was raised in Blairsville, GA. thirty years as a Nursing Assis- and many other accomplishments folks were from, what you did for mountains and cheering on the gineer and dedicated more than He came from humble begin- tant, where she shared her love over the years. He lived with work, and what kind of car you nings but created a thriving busi- GA Dogs. 25 years of diligent service to the and respect for older people. She his mother and then alone after were driving. Steve loved his family State of Georgia. Following his ness, John W. Wilson Grading, was an humble kind person treat- her passing. Farris loved listen- He had a successful career Inc., which he operated in the fiercely. He and Teresa were marretirement, he spent another 25 ing her patients as if they were ing to music, the Atlanta Braves in the commercial egg business ried for nearly forty nine years. years as the caretaker of Chestnut Atlanta area for over thirty years her own family. She loved nature and reading. He was preceded in where he owned and operated where he worked alongside many He was preceded in death by his Valley Farm, where his faithful and there was always a special death by his parents and also a Kimsey Egg Company for over parents, Dewitt and Hilda, his work and care to cultivate the family members. Mr. Wilson’s place in her heart for animals. brother, James Terry Mashburn. fifty years and worked for Crys- business success was the result mother in law, Opal Holton Lamnatural beauty of the property Barbara was a talented person Mr. Mashburn was a member of tal Farms, Rose Acre Farms and mohds. He is survived by the were enjoyed and appreciated by of an unrivaled work ethic and Ebenezer Baptist Church. also Ingles Markets for forty excelling in drawing, photog- love of his life, Teresa, daughters many. an unyielding pride in the quality Surviving Mr. Mashburn five years. He also owned and raphy and writing short stories. and sons in law, Kristi Jordan A devoted follower of of his work. He was a loving and operated Kimsey’s grocery and She passed these talents on to her are two sisters and one brother in (Randy) of Lavonia, GA., Kylie Christ, Buddy’s life was defined caring father, brother and grand- had a successful cattle operation son, while he was very young. He law, Mary and Tommy Herendon Smith (Cameron) Allen of Ft. father. John was an avid out- on what is now Brasstown Valby a deep and daily commit- went on to be a successful artist, of Morganton, Sharon Neil of Collins, CO., granddaughters, doorsman who traveled the world ley Resort. He enjoyed working ment to the Word of God. He from Alaska to Africa hunting which made her very proud. Blairsville, several nieces, neph- Natalie Simmons, Lauren Simwas a faithful member of Mt. Barbara was a Christian ews, cousins, many other rela- on his farm and in his chicken and fishing with his friends and houses. Even after his retirement, mons, Zinnia Smith, Tristin Al- Zion Baptist Church for decades, family. He instilled a love of the and loved reading and studying tives and friends also survive. len and special brother in law and where he served as a deacon. He the Bible. She enjoyed hearing A graveside service will you could find him driving to dif- outdoors in his children which ferent grocery stores to check the sister in law, Richard and Peggy was a gifted artist who found joy will carry on for generations. different ministers on the televi- be held on Saturday August 8, White. in drawing and painting, creating egg prices. Outside of work he John was extraordinarily gener- sion. She and Al shared their love 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Antioch A memorial service will be works that reflected his apprecia- loved to travel, specifically out ous and found great joy in doing of the scriptures. Barbara was a Baptist Church Cemetery with west where he could enjoy the held on Sunday August 9, 2026 at tion for God’s creation. Addition- for others. devoted mother, sometimes may- Tony Harkins officiating. Flow- beauty of the wild west and an 2:00 pm at the Acree-Davis Fually, Buddy was a Freemason and In 2012 he was struck be too devoted. ers are accepted or if you wish, array of gun shows. Most of all neral Home Chapel in Toccoa, a pillar of the Hiawassee River down by a massive hemorrhagic When the movie Star Wars the family requests that donations he loved spending time with his GA. Flowers are accepted or if Community. stroke, but survived against all came out of course she took Al may be made to Pruitt Hospice family and being PawPaw to his you wish, the family requests More than any accom- odds and recovered in ways that to the movies. He was fascinated of Blairsville in Mr. Mashburn’s grandchildren and great grand- that donations may be made to plishment, Buddy will be remem- exceeded expectations. Mr. Wil- by the movie and wanted to go memory. Interment will follow in children. the American Cancer Society in bered for his unwavering love son never fully recovered and re- again. Finally, after taking him the Antioch Cemetery where he He is preceded in death by Steve’s memory. The family will for the Lord and for his family. quired extensive care for the next twenty-four times and getting will rest with his extended fam- his parents; daughter, Dale Kim- meet with friends at the Acree- After the passing of his last sur- 14 years until his passing; how- lots of sleep at the movies. She ily. The family will meet with sey Rice; brother, Bud Kimsey. Davis Funeral Home on Sunday viving sibling in 2006, “Uncle ever, much of his warm and lov- said, “NO MORE, That’s IT!” friends following the services at He is survived by his sons, Pat from 12-2:00 pm prior the ser- Buddy” became much more to ing nature remained. Although Barbara was preceded in the cemetery. (Tonya) Kimsey, Thomas (Renee) vices. the Allison nieces and nephews; John’s capacity for speech was death by her parents, Tom and Mountain View Funeral Kimsey, Jess Collins; brother, Mountain View Funeral he was a father figure, mentor, limited, he was always quick to Myrtle Daniel; her four sisters: Home of Blairsville is in charge Pete (Shelia) Kimsey; sister, Deb- Home of Blairsville is in charge encourager, and preacher. His say “I love you.” These years Sue Davenport, Eva Hemphill, of the arrangements. You may ra Sellers; grandchildren, Alex of the arrangements. You may home was always open, his ad- were difficult in many ways but Christine Thompson and Bonita sign the family guest book and Rice, Lane Kimsey, Herman Kim- sign the family guest book and vice was always sincere, and his filled with love and laughter due Cantrell; and her grandparents, send condolences online at www. sey, Blake Ramey, Dillon Kimsey, send condolences online at www. heart was always full of love. He to the hard work, dedication, and Little Jim and Minnie Davenport. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Taylor Kimsey, Josh Collins; nine leaves behind a legacy of faith, mountainviewfuneralhome.com. sacrifice by those who cared for Surviving Barbara are her great-grandchildren; one niece; kindness, wisdom, and steadfast him. son, Al Garnto; many nieces, three nephews. devotion, and though his humble He was preceded in death nephews and cousins. Pallbearers: Kurt Kimsey, spirit, generous heart, and sharp by his parents and also a brother, As per Barbara and Al’s Heath Kimsey, Lane Kimsey, wit will be deeply missed, the James Wilson; and a sister, Pris- wishes no service is planned. In Herman Kimsey, Dillon Kimsey, example he set through a life of cilla Greenway; and his longtime lieu of flowers, donations may Alex Rice, Blake Ramey faithful service to God and oth- friend and fishing guide, Charlie be made to help with expenses to Honorary Pallbearers: ers will endure for generations to Brown of Belton, SC. Mr. Wilson Mountain View Funeral Home. Charles Brackett, John Dean, Matcome. was of the Christian faith. Mountain View Funeral thew Gibson, Brandon Grimsley, Buddy was preceded in Surviving Mr. Wilson are Home of Blairsville is in charge Jeff Hogsed, Jacky Jones, Richdeath by his beloved wife, Betty two sons, one daughter, and one of the arrangements. You may ard Kreis, Charles Nicholson, Allison; his parents, Walter and daughter-in-law: John Chase sign the family guest book and Gene Rogers, Ricky Seabolt, Dan Cora Allison; his brothers, Hoyt Wilson (Karen) of Dublin, GA, send condolences online at www. Spears, Truett Spiva. (Mildred) Allison and Claude Colt Wilson of Hartwell, GA, mountainviewfuneralhome.com Visitation was held on Fri- (Louise) Allison; and his sisters, Casey Woodruff of Newnan, GA; day, July 31, 2026 from 5 PM to FOR A MOTHER LIKE YOU 8 PM at Banister-Cooper Funeral Beatrice (Arnold) Tallant, and two brothers and one sister-in- Janelle (Sam) Adams. law, Paul and Nancy Wilson of I cannot find Home and also on Saturday, Au- He is survived by his Whitesburg, GA, Mark Wilson The words to express BARBARA GAY gust 1, 2026 from 12 to 2 PM at To a Mother, that is McConnell Memorial Baptist FRANCES ANN daughter, Karon (Chal) Davis; his of Toccoa, GA, Barbara Burnett ALEXANDER HOLMELIN HAILE son, Leo (Lynne) Abernathy; his of Blairsville, Patricia Wise of The very Best. Church. Mrs. Barbara Gay Alexan- Funeral was held on Sat- Mrs. Frances Ann Holmegrandsons, Ryan (Katelin) Da- Aiken, SC; his grandchildren: From the times der, age 87, of Wesley Mountain vis and Ricky Davis; his grand- Madison Woodruff, Cody Wil- You rocked me urday, August 1, 2026 at 2 PM lin Haile, 83, went to be with the Drive, Blairsville, passed away at McConnell Memorial Baptist Lord on June 26, 2026, spending daughters, Amber (Contrel) Neal son, Roxie Woodruff, Levi Wil- Fast to sleep peacefully in the Union General and Kerri Abernathy; ten great- son, John Wilson and Thomas And worked so hard Church. Rev. Doug Merck and her final moments surrounded by Hospital on Thursday, July 30, Rev. Danny Burch officiated. the love of her husband, David grandchildren; and sisters-in-law Wilson; several nieces, neph- So we could eat. 2026 following an extended ill- Nell Sloan, Lillian Mauldin, and ews; close friend, Steve Ebbert; In lieu of flowers please Earle Haile. Frances was born on From the nights ness. Mrs. Alexander was born make donations to the Towns Margie Mauldin. Buddy also devoted cousin, Darryl Adams; You’ve cried January 18, 1943 to the late Gus- on May 18, 1939 in Kansas City, County Food Pantry or the taf Homelin and Pauline Hightleaves numerous nieces, neph- caregiver of eight years, Deborah And worried for me MO, the daughter of the late ews, cousins, and dear friends Soles; and many other relatives McConnell Memorial Baptist muler Homelin in the Panama I cannot express Fernoy Taylor Alexander and the Church Benevolence Fund. who will cherish his memory. and friends also survive. MY LOVE FOR THEE. Canal Zone. She spent 12 years late Mary Pauline McDroome Banister-Cooper is in there before moving to the Unit- Those who knew and Funeral services were held For being strong Alexander. Barbara was a lov- charge of arrangements for Mr. loved Buddy celebrate a life on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 2 ed States. PM at the Mountain View Chapel It’s so hard to do ing and caring lady who loved Kimsey. well lived and find comfort in She earned her BSN, RN with Chaplin Steve Ebbert offici- But somehow everyone. Most of all she loved the promise of Scripture: “To be at St. Petersburg College and ating. The following gentlemen You make it through. the Lord. She made her home in absent from the body and to be spent 42 years as a nurse. In this served as pallbearers: Clint Wil- Blairsville for the last thirty-two present with the Lord” (2 Corin- For guiding me field, her caring nature and strong son, Cody Wilson, Zeb Adams, years. Mrs. Alexander was of the thians 5:8). They also celebrate All these years desire to help others serve her the joyful reunion he undoubted- Kevin Redwine, Zack Webb, Christian faith. And listening to well. Families whose loved ones ly experienced with his beloved Clayton Gantt, with Levi Wilson Surviving Mrs. Alexan- My Every Fear! she cared for remember her for Betty and with the Savior whom as an honorary pallbearer. Inter- der are one sister, Karen Moulis From then to now- of Lee Summit, MO; her dear the loving care that she provided. he faithfully served throughout ment followed in the Duncan In my grown days Frances dedicated herself to the his life. Cemetery where he will rest with friends who she considered as For looking after me her family: Carol Sampson, Di- vulnerable, working on Medsurg, In his later years, Buddy his beloved parents. Flowers are In so many ways. cancer wards, in hospice care, cherished this truth from the accepted or if you wish, the fam- ane Berberich, Charlynn Owen, Larry Berberick, and Connie and finally as a mother-baby Word of God, “Nevertheless I ily requests that donations may What would I say nurse at Northeast Georgia. am continually with thee: Thou be made to the Shepherd Center To a Mother like you- Warman; also many other at Brannon Lodge; many other rela- Frances married the love hast holden me by my right hand. of Atlanta in Mr. Wilson’s mem- Just GOD BLESS YOU of her life, David Haile, on Au- Thou shalt guide me with thy ory. The family met with friends MOTHER tives and friends also survive. A graveside service was gust 18, 1964. They spent nearly counsel, And afterward receive at the funeral home on Thursday For everything that held on Monday, August 3, 2026 JUDITH ANN 62 beautiful years together. She me to glory”. (Psalm 73:23-24 from 12-2 PM. You Do. at 2 PM at the Meadow View LOUDON DERRISO enjoyed taking leisurely drives KJV). Mountain View Funeral SO through the countryside and boat Visitation will be held on Home of Blairsville is in charge From the bottom Cemetery with Rev. Joe Curtis Mrs. Judith Ann Loudon officiating. The family met with rides on the lake. Frances was a Saturday, August 1, 2026, from of the arrangements. You may Of my HEART Derriso, age 75, of Maple Springs mathematical genius, testing in 11 AM until 2 PM at Mt. Zion sign the family guest book and To the top of my tongue friends following the services. Road, Blairsville, passed away Flowers are accepted or if you the 97th percentile for math abili- Baptist Church in Hiawassee, send condolences online at www. I’m very PROUD MOTHER peacefully at her home on Thurs- ties. She enjoyed challenging Georgia. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. TO BE YOUR SON. wish, the family requests that day, July 30, 2026, following an donations may be made to a fa- herself and could often be found Funeral services will fol- extended illness. Mrs. Derriso low at 2 PM at the church. Learn more Poem by artist, Al Garnto vorite charity of your choice or to the Union County Humane was born on November 11, 1950, playing Sudoku. She had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and was a in Syracuse, NY, the daughter of In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial do- about the Bible © copyrighted 2/14/2001 Society Mountain Shelter in Mrs. the late John Merle Loudon and member of First Baptist Church of Blairsville. Would you like to learn Alexander’s memory. the late Jane Evelyn Zymaloski nations be made to Samaritan’s Purse in Buddy’s honor. more about the Bible? Click on Bagpipe weekly Mountain View Funeral Loudon. Judith was a loving part- She is survived by her hus- band, David; son, Gary; daugh- Home of Blairsville is in charge Banister-Cooper is in charge of arrangements for Mr. website and register for Free Bible Study! blairsvillebible. Instruction of the arrangements. You may ner and aunt. She loved traveling, her pets and socializing with ter, Melissa; grandchildren, Jack and Ellie; and many nieces and Allison. worldbibleschool. org. NT(Aug5,Z1)CA and Rehearsal sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www. people. She was very much a people person. She was preceded nephews. Numerous friends and The Appalachian Saint loved ones also survive. Overcoming Caregiver Andrew’s Pipes and Drums mountainviewfuneralhome.com. in death by her parents and her son, Matthew Loudon Waterman A memorial service will be band meets weekly on McConnell announced at a later date. Stress - Dealing with False Guilt bagpipe Saturday mornings at 9 AM at who passed away on February 8, 2024. Mrs. Derriso was of the Cochran-McDaniel Fu- Caregiving is the most 7th,”We Care” will meet at St. Clare’s Episcopal Church Hope Room Christian faith. neral Homes is honored to serve the family of Frances Ann Haile; guilt producing role we will 11:30 AM. Caregivers will en- in Blairsville, GA, for instruc- Surviving Mrs. Derriso are ever take on in our lives but it joy a free, scrumptious meal, tion and rehearsal. Clothes Closet her loving partner and best friend send condolences and sign the need not be that way. What is specially prepared by the RBC The Band is actively re- Stop by the McConnell of fifteen years, Jack Meeks of guest register online at www.co- Blairsville; one niece, Sandra chranmcdaniel.com. the solution? We Care Team. Visitors are cruiting pipers and drummers, Hope Room Clothes Closet to Come to the next “We welcome! help us clear out our fall and Faye Jennings of Blairsville; both experienced and begin- Care” meeting and find the an- If you’re a caregiver and ning! We promise excellent winter inventory…we need many other relatives and a host of friends also survive. Opportunity swer. Pastor Bill Schakat will speak on this topic and put would like to attend, please instruction in a friendly and RSVP to Doug or Rebecca supportive environment, and to make room for Spring! We have clothes, shoes, and ac- As per Judith’s wishes, no services are planned. In lieu of to change a life caregiver stress and false guilt Collins at 706-897-5221 or invites anyone with a serious cessories for all ages, genders, flowers if you wish, the family Do you know a loved into context by reading from hisgrace4amadcaregiver@ interest in learning the Great and sizes, infant to XXXL. requests that donations may be one who struggles with addic- Romans 8:1. gmail.com. Highland Bagpipe or Scottish We have fresh inventory each made to the American Cancer So- tions or strongholds? “We Care” is a respite Redeemer Baptist is at Drums to come and visit a re- week and all items are FREE. ciety in Mrs. Derriso’s memory. Unity Farm, a biblically and support group for family 39 Youngstown Church Road hearsal session. So come join Come and check us out, Tues- Mountain View Funeral based, 12-step Men’s Recovcaregivers that meets on the in Blairsville, one and a quar- us! Home of Blairsville is in charge ery Home is located in Union days and Thursdays from of the arrangements. You may first Friday of the month at ter miles north of KFC off For further information: 1 – 3 PM. We would love to County. For more information sign the family guest book and Redeemer Baptist Church in Murphy Highway, across from 865-456-8489 or www.ASAP- talk with you or pray for you! send condolences online at www. please call 706-851-5390 or Blairsville. On Friday, August Mayfield Ice Cream. N(Aug5,Z5)CA DBand.com. NT(Aug5,Z1)CA T(Aug5,A1)JT mountainviewfuneralhome.com. 706-455-9043. NT(Aug5,Z1)CA
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5B SANDRA “LOUISE” DAWN MORRISON GRAY SEAN MICHAEL KIEFER ODOM BYERS Mrs. Dawn Morrison Gray, Mr. Sean Michael Kiefer, Sandra “Louise” Odom of Blue Ridge, GA, passed away age 43, of Hawks Nest Road, Byers, age 91, of Blairsville, GA peacefully on Monday, July 20, Blairsville, passed away peace- passed away peacefully on July 2026, surrounded by her loving fully on Friday July 31, 2026 in 30, 2026 with her daughters and family in her mountain home. the Northeast Georgia Medical granddaughter Ashley by her Born on June 23, 1944, Center following a heart attack. side. As her father’s favorite gos- in Macon, GA, Dawn was the Mr. Kiefer was born on July 2, HAROLD JAMES MULL BOYD LEON LEDFORD DEBORAH JONES pel song played, her family found daughter of the late Forrest Adair 1983 in Stuart, FL, the son of Boyd Leon Ledford, also In Loving Memory - Mrs. comfort in imagining him stand- Morrison and Mary Thelma Michele Blanchette and the late Mr. Harold James Mull, ing alongside Jesus, ready to wel- Wood Morrison. She graduated Richard Michael Kiefer. Sean age 79, of Blairsville, GA, passed known as “Pine Knot,” (a nick- Deborah Jones, age 69, of Blairs- from Campbell High School in was a loving and caring hus- name lovingly given to him by ville, GA, formerly of Palm come her home. away peacefully on Saturday, his Father because he was “as Coast, FL, passed away peace- Louise was born on No- Smyrna, GA, in 1962 and con- band and father. He loved being July 25, 2026. Harold was born tough as a pine knot”) went to be fully at her home surrounded by vember 6, 1934 in Blairsville, tinued her education at Reinhardt outdoors, hunting, fishing and on October 12, 1946, in Murphy, with his Lord and Savior Satur- the love of her family after a cou- GA to the late Gordon Odom University. On June 10, 1967, spending time with his family. NC, to the late Wade C. Mull and day, July 18, 2026. rageous battle with cancer. Debo- and Christine Brown Odom. she married the love of her life, His biggest priority in life was Alwayne Robinson Mull-Silvey. Born in Blairsville, GA, in rah was born on May 31, 1957, in Throughout her life, she was lov- Jack H. Gray, beginning a beauti- his family and teaching his sons A lifelong resident of Union the Ivy Log Community, he was Rhode Island. She dedicated part ingly known as Mama, Grandma, ful journey together that spanned everything he knew. He was a County, Harold proudly served nearly six decades. contractor and took great pride in a beloved son of the late Boyd of her life to caring for others as Mamaw, Memaw, Sis, and Louhis country in the United States Dawn dedicated 34 years his work. Sean was of the Catho- Ledford, and Dessie Wimpey a nurse’s aide in a nursing home, ise. Each name represented a spe- of her career to American Busi- Army during the Vietnam War. Ledford. a role that reflected her compas- cial relationship, but all belonged ness Products, retiring as Corpo- lic faith. Harold will be remem- to a woman who was deeply trea- rate Secretary. She was known Surviving Sean are his Leon proudly served in sionate nature. bered as a devoted father, grand- the United States Air Force from She found joy in spend- sured by those blessed to know for her dedication, professional- loving wife and best friend, Krisfather, great-grandfather, brother, her. ten Kiefer of Blairsville; his two 1962 until 1966. He served un- ing time with her beloved dogs, ism, and the friendships she built twin sons, Ethan Michael Kiefer companion, and friend. He spent der the Kennedy Administra- Her faith was the rock throughout her career. many years as the owner and Sandy and Ruger, and loved ex- and Hunter Michael Kiefer of tion in the Presidential Honor pressing her creativity through upon which she built her life, A woman of deep faith, operator of Appalachian Garage Guard. After his military service, crafting. Whether caring for oth- sustaining her through every trial Dawn was a devoted member Blairsville; many other relatives Doors, where he built not only and friends also survive. Leon, otherwise known by his ers, creating something with her and keeping her spirit joyful. She of Coosa Methodist Church in a successful business but last- A Celebration of Sean’s CB handle “Pine Knot” began chose grace and kindness, never Blairsville, Georgia. She was life will be held on Saturday ing relationships throughout the hands, or simply enjoying time trucking around the country. He speaking an unkind word about also a member of the Smyrna August 8, 2026 at 11 AM at the community. with those she loved, Deborah was an enthusiastic participant in others, and the light of Christ Social Club and the Daughters of Mountain View Chapel with He found joy in the lived life with passion and pur- shone brightly through the way the American Revolution, Olde Cory Patton officiating. Flowers truck shows and was a dedicated pose. Deborah’s greatest blessing simple things in life—casting member of the Palmetto Upstate she lived and loved. She loved Hightower Trail Chapter. One are accepted or if you wish, the a line while fishing, riding his was her family, and the love of listening to southern gospel mu- of Dawn’s proudest accomplish- family requests that donations Chapter of the American Truck her life was her husband, Jimmy beloved Harley-Davidson, and Historical Society. He was also a sic, especially The Guy Foster ments was earning her black belt may be made to his two sons making memories with those he Edward Jones. Though life took Family. member of the Central and Lib- them on separate paths for a time, in taekwondo. custodial accounts for future use. loved most. More than anything, erty Hardees Breakfast Club. Louise loved uncondition- To know Dawn was to The family will meet with friends Harold cherished time with his they found their way back to one ally, found the good in every- know warmth. She truly never following the services. He is a member of Prayer another, remarried, and spent the children and grandchildren. His Baptist Church in Central. He one, and saw beauty throughout met a stranger and had a remark- Mountain View Funeral strength, humor, generous heart, rest of their lives together. He God’s creation. She faced life able gift for making everyone Home of Blairsville is in charge was a member of Ivy Log Baptist was her soulmate, her best friend, and quiet wisdom will be deeply Church in Blairsville, GA prior to with quiet strength and courage feel like family. Whether she was of the arrangements. You may missed by all who knew him. and her constant companion. and rarely, if ever, complained. tending to her beautiful gardens, sign the family guest book and moving to South Carolina. Their story was one of enduring In addition to his parents, Above all else, Leon loved She was the heart of her family decorating her home for every send condolences online at www. love, forgiveness, and a bond that and the glue that held everyone season, or simply sharing stories mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Harold was preceded in death by and cherished his family. could not be broken. Jimmy pre- together. Whether it was biscuits about the people she loved most, his son, Ricky James Mull; his Leon is survived by his ceded her in death, and the fam- and gravy, potato salad, fried Dawn brought joy wherever she brother, Ray Cordell; and his sis- children: Daryl Ledford (Me- ily finds comfort in knowing they ters, Helen and Faye. lissa) of Sandy Springs, SC, Jack okra, or fried squash, she always went. Her greatest pride was her are together once again, reunited seemed to have something ready family, and she spoke of them of- Left to cherish his memo- Ledford (Robin) of Liberty, SC, after a lifetime of love. ry are his loving companion and and Carol Ledford Breazeale when someone walked through ten with a smile that reflected just Surviving Deborah are her her door. Caring for others was how deeply she loved them. She best friend, Margaret Donaldson (Tom) of Easley, SC; his grand- son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy of Young Harris, GA; his chil- children: Brandon Fowler, Me- simply who she was. had a servant’s heart, a generous and Cristina Jones Jr. of Blairs- Louise possessed a special spirit, and a way of making ordidren: Randy James Mull and wife gan Fowler Ahart (Christopher), ville; her cherished grandchil- Stephanie of Marion, NC; Harold Grace Ledford, DJ Ledford, gift with babies. They were natu- nary moments feel special. Her dren, Semira and Evan Turner, rally drawn to her, and she could kindness and contagious love for James Mull Jr. of Blairsville, GA; Katie Breazeale Willis (Blake), Shane Jones, Gabriel Jones, and Mamie JoHelen Mull-Davies and United States Air Force Tech- soothe even the fussiest little one life will be remembered by all Vicky Rena; along with many and have them peacefully asleep who had the privilege of knowhusband Jake Davies, of Blairs- nical Sergeant (TSgt) Thomas other loving relatives and dear ville; Amanda Faith Mull and Fi- Breazeale (Lori) of Anchorage, in her arms. She enjoyed playing ing her. friends. Rummy and Canasta, although ance Fard Lambert of Blairsville, Alaska, and Zachary Howard; Deborah will be remem- She is survived by her beand Lindsey Hope Mull-Shep- his great-grandchildren: Savan- anyone who played Rummy with loved husband of 59 years, Jack bered for her strength, determina- her knew that, whether she need- H. Gray; her brothers, Rex Morripard and husband Kenya Shep- nah Fowler; Izzy Thomas, Wy- tion, and the fierce love she had pard of Dacula, GA. att Thomas, Owen Thomas, and ed them or not, she would some- son (Andrea) of Canton, GA, and MARGUERITE for her family. She was strong- how hold on to the aces until the Don Morrison of Kennesaw, GA; He is also survived by Caroline Ahart; and his siblings, willed and never backed down CECILLE STANLEY his sisters: Jean Coleman, Lo- Bob Ledford (Alma) of Clinton, bitter end. Her mornings began her nieces and nephews, Seth from standing up for the people with coffee and creamer while Morrison, Jamie Sandin, Andy Mrs. Marguerite Cecille retta Barton, Shirley Payne, Lisa TN, and Martha Ledford Dav- she loved. She wasn’t one to take Kephart and husband Gene, and enport (Albert) of Blairsville, watching Fox News. Affection- Captain (Dagmar), Chip Gray Stanley, age 89, of Blairsville, nonsense from anyone, and those ately known as “Weatherman (Kathy), and Stan Gray; and her GA, formerly of Lakeland, FL, Gail Cordell-New, all of Murphy, GA; numerous loving nieces and who knew her respected her for NC; his brothers: Lawrence Mull nephews, cousins who were like Mamaw,” she kept her family great-nieces and great-nephews, passed away peacefully on Mon- her honesty and unwavering spir- supplied with regular forecasts. Sawyer Sandin, Alexis Sandin, day, July 27, 2026 in the Union and wife Terry, Joe Cordell and siblings; and special friends from it. She loved her family fiercely From tornado warnings and hur- Alexis Marino (Joseph), Alisha County Nursing Home following wife Carolyn, Steve Cordell and coast to coast. A visitation for Leon was and spent her life making sure ricanes to snowstorms, everyone Captain (Brian), Ariel Captain, an extended illness. Mrs. Stanley wife Angie, all of Murphy, NC, they knew it. Her love, strength, could count on her phone call to Bailey Dawn Gray, Charlotte was born on November 7, 1936 and Bob Cordell and wife Connie held Friday, July 24, 2026, from 6 PM until 8 PM at Duckett-Rob- and unwavering loyalty will con- make sure they were safe. Gray, and Bea Gray. in Mulberry, FL, the daughter of of Etowah, TN; his sister-in-law, tinue to live on in the hearts of all Judy Cordell of Clermont, GA; inson Funeral Home in Central, In addition to her parents, Though our hearts are bro- the late Cecil Strange and the late SC. who knew and loved her. Louise was preceded in death ken by her absence, we find com- Estelle Bock Strange. Marguerite fifteen beloved grandchildren; A memorial service will by her husband, James Howard fort in knowing she is home with was a loving and caring mother, six great-grandchildren; along A visitation in Blairsville, GA was held Saturday, July 25, be held at a later date. In lieu of Byers; her children, Glenda Sue her Savior, reunited with loved sister and grandmother. Mrs. with many nieces, nephews, ex- flowers, the family requests that Byers and Ronald Everett Byers; ones who have gone before her. Stanley was preceded in death by tended family members, and dear 2026, from 1 PM until 3 PM at Cochran-McDaniel Funeral memorial donations be made her brothers, Earl Odom and Rex Her legacy of faith, love, hospi- her beloved husband, John Felix friends. to St. Jude Children’s Research Odom; and her sister-in-law, tality, and unwavering devotion Stanley in 2003 and a daughter, A memorial service was Home, 41 Hunt Martin Street Blairsville, GA 30512. A funer- Hospital or the Tunnel to Tow- Gwen Odom. to her family will continue to Ann. Mrs. Stanley was of the held on Thursday, July 30th, 6 ers Foundation in Deborah’s She is survived by her bloom in the lives of those she Baptist faith. PM, officiated by Rev. Chad al Service was held at 3 PM in Surviving Mrs. Stanley the Cochran-McDaniel Funeral memory. Though our hearts are daughters, Jan (Johnny) Thom- touched, just as beautifully as the Sisum at Youngstown Baptist heavy with the loss of them both, as and Lisa (Scott) Dial; seven gardens she so lovingly tended. are one son, Steven Stanley of Church, Blairsville, GA, 172 Home chapel. Burial followed in the Ivy we find peace in knowing that grandchildren: Julie Dial El- “Well done, good and Round Mountain, TX; two broth- Harkin-Young Road, Blairsville, Deborah and Jimmy are together liott, Ryan (Kristin) Dial, Jenna faithful servant.” ers, Cecil Strange, Jr. of Polk Log Cemetery in his beloved Ivy GA. The family met with friends Log Community in Union Coun- again, forever side by side, just as (Brodie) Murphy, Jillian (Mi- The family is planning a City, FL, Robert Strange of the following the services. ty, GA. they were always meant to be. chael) Myrick, Ashley Louise Celebration of Life to honor and Philippines; three grandchildren, In lieu of flowers, the fam- In lieu of flowers, Memo- Mountain View Funeral Dial, Christopher Scott Dial, remember Dawn. Service details Steven II, Zebulon and Sterling ily requests that memorial dona- rials may be made to the Palmetto Home of Blairsville is in charge and Christine (Joseph) Dell; and will be shared once arrangements Stanley; several nieces, nephews, tions be made to the Veterans of of the arrangements. You may twelve great-grandchildren: Pat- have been finalized. many other relatives and friends Upstate Chapter of the American Foreign Wars (VFW) in Harold’s Truck Historical Society at 9558 sign the family guest book and rick, Meredith, Hunter, Thomas, Cochran-McDaniel Fu- also survive. honor, recognizing his proud ser- send condolences online at www. Wyatt Claire, Huxton, Whitten, neral Home is honored to serve A memorial service will Neely Ferry Road, Waterloo, SC vice to our country. 29384, or by contacting Robert mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Cayden, Waylon, Aurora, Jonah, the family of Dawn Gray. You be held at a later date in Florida. Mountain View Funeral Brock at Brocky45@prtcnet. and Atlas. may sign the guest register and In lieu of flowers if you wish, the Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may com. Mountain She is also survived by her send condolences to the family at family requests that donations may be made to a favorite charity An honorary truck convoy cherished sisters-in-law, Shirley www.cochranmcdaniel.com. sign the family guest book and escorted Pine Knot from Duck- Presbyterian Food Odom, Shirley (Larry) Chastain, of your choice in Mrs. Stanley’s send condolences online at www. ett-Robinson in Central, SC at 9 Pantry is open Martha Lee Byers, and Maria Addiction Support memory. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. AM Saturday. Participants in the Byers as well as many beloved Refuge Recovery Meet- Home Mountain View Funeral of Blairsville is in charge convoy were at Duckett-Robin- The Ecumenical Food nieces, nephews, relatives, and ing: Tuesdays 6:30 PM, 111 of the arrangements. You may Loving Church son Funeral Home by 8:30 AM Pantry at Mountain Presby- dear friends. River Street, Hiawassee, GA; sign the family guest book and During the final years of 706-970-7754. Sponsored by Saturday. terian Church is open every Blessed is our wonderful her life, Louise received superb NMZ Church. NT(Aug5,Z2)CA send condolences online at www. Cochran-McDaniel Funer- Thursday from 9:30 AM to 1 mountainviewfuneralhome.com. church, Day of Grace Baptist and compassionate care from the al Home is honored to serve the PM. We are once again open- Church, 269 Saw Mill Road. family of Boyd Leon Ledford. loving staff at Chatuge Regional ing our doors to the pantry Offering a great message ev- You may sign the guest register Nursing Home. The staff did far for people to come inside to ery Sunday; Sunday School and send condolences to the fam- more than care for Louise; they fill their own boxes. We are came to love her deeply, and that starts at 10 AM; Church Ser- ily at www.cochranmcdaniel.com. located right next door to the love was evident in the kindness, vice at 11 AM. Please join us To send flowers or plant a Catholic Church in Blairsville. comfort, and genuine affection for God’s love that will stay in memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store. Located at 3831 Hwy. 515 E. they showed her each day. Her Blairsville 706-745-2156 / Hiawassee 706-896-6000 your heart all week. N(Aug5,Z2)CA NT(Aug5,Z1)CA family will forever be grateful Murphy 828-837-9599 / Blue Ridge 706-632-5968 for the special place Louise held McCaysville 706-492-3321 in their hearts. Louise was sweet, strong, Celebrating Life & Treasuring Every Memory MOUNTAIN VIEW FUNERAL fun-loving, courageous, and god- ly. She was a rare gem, a gift to HOME & CREMATORY her family, and truly an angel on Earth. Although her family will miss her beyond measure, the Taylor Bemenderfer 07/23/2026 Rachel Turner Adams 07/26/2026 DISTINCTIVE SERVICE AT MODERATE COST Mountain View Funeral Home & Crematory love she gave, the faith she dem- Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel onstrated, and the countless lives was built to Honor our Lord, Jesus Christ she touched will remain part of her beautiful legacy. Phillip W. Gatlin Pamela Kay Young Before building Mountain View Funeral Home, we made a Funeral services were held on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at 2 07/24/2026 07/29/2026 commitment to God, our family, friends and community to lower PM at the Mountain View Chapel Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel funeral prices and be the most reasonable funeral home in the area, with Rev. Lee Griggs officiating. Special music was presented by while providing quality merchandise and distinctive service. We Joey Chastain, Rick and Cheryl Thomas Paul Davis Linda Kay Tang promise to keep this commitment, and our prices will be the lowest Jones, Lee and Cathy Griggs. The following gentlemen served 07/24/2026 07/29/2026 in the tri-state area, no matter what the cost... Guaranteed. Please as pallbearers: Steve Odom, Jeff Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel Odom, Greg Odom, Rick Byers, feel free to call or come by and compare prices and quality. Leroy Byers, Troy Byers, Joey Charles and Benny Chastain and Jimmy Whittemore. Lorena McDonald Antoinette Rose Evans Interment followed in the Confi- 07/30/2026 07/25/2026 dence Methodist Church Ceme- No Additional Charge for use of our chapel for funeral services tery. In lieu of flowers, donations Hiawassee Chapel Murphy Chapel No Charge for register book • No Charge for acknowledgement cards may be made to the Confidence No Additional Charge for more than one night visitations Methodist Cemetery Fund, c/o Pam Jordan, 104 Lazy River Dorothy Gayle Graham No Charge for local hospital or home removals. Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512. 07/28/2026 Dignified Service to All, Regardless of Financial Situations. The family met with friends on LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY BENNY ERWIN AND CHARLES LONG Saturday evening from 6-8 PM. McCaysville Chapel OVER 57 YEARS EXPERIENCE Mountain View Funeral 119 Murphy Hwy. • Blairsville, GA• (706) 745-3456 N(Dec17,2003ufnB) Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may Two Families - Obit Line 706-745-9991 sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www. One Heart to Serve Online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com mountainviewfuneralhome.com.
Page 6B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 Automobiles, Rentals, Real Estate, Pets, Services, Help Wanted, Legals, & More... You’ll find it all in the North Georgia News Classifieds. Deadline for ALL Classifieds Ads is 4 p.m. on Friday Deadline for ALL Real Estate Display Ads is Noon on Thursday CALL 706-745-6343 or email cs@nganews.com TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! FOR SALE LOST AND RIC’S OUTDOOR SERVICES is looking for one more crew OPEN POSITION – ENOTAH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT – JUVENILE JUDGE The Superior Court Judges of the Enotah Ju- you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION NOTICE To whom it may concern: PORTABLE SOLAR GEN- FOUND member to join the hardscape crew. Excellent pay for experi- dicial Circuit are appointing a Juvenile Judge to preside over juvenile court proceedings in Lumpkin, Towns, Union, and White Counties. filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. Elizabeth O’ Sullivan has petitioned to be ap- pointed administrator(s) of the estate of Wan- da Sue Cummings deceased, of said county. ERATOR: Yeti Pro 4000WH $200 REWARD ence and operating equipment. The appointment is for a four-year term, be- Kristin Stephens Stanley (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of Portable Power Station - Goal Also willing to train. Call Ric ginning January 1, 2027. Applicants must be at Judge of the Probate Court bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, least 30 years of age, a member in good stand- By: Charla Dyer and/or grant of certain powers contained in Zero. Includes Nomad 400 Por- 706-400-2964. NT(Jul15-Aug5) ing with the State Bar of Georgia, a citizen of Deputy Clerk O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons table Solar Panels. Still in box, Georgia for at least 3 years, and have practiced 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 are hereby notified to show cause why said garage kept. Paid $5000 brand JOLENA’S OUTDOOR SER- law for at least 5 years. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to Blairsville, GA 30512 Address petition should not be granted. All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth new - never used. Will consider VICES is looking for 2 more Superior Court Chief Judge Joy R. Parks, 325 (706) 439-6006 the grounds of any such objections, and must all reasonable offers! Call or crew members to join our lawn Riley Road, Room 212, Dahlonega, GA 30533, Telephone Number be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- fore August 17, 2026. or email to mmcdonald@georgiacourts.gov. N(Aug5) text 321-695-8245. NT(Jul29,Aug5,12) maintenance team. Pay based Juvenile Court Judges are appointed by the BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the on experience and reliability. Superior Court Judges of the circuit to four- APPLICATION TO REGISTER A BUSINESS TO BE petition must be in writing, setting forth the FOR SALE: 3 trailers, 6’x8’ year terms. Full-time judges cannot practice CONDUCTED UNDER A TRADE NAME, PART- grounds of any such objections. All objections We work all year, no winter lay law while holding office. NERSHIP, OR OTHERS should be sworn to before a notary public or - 6’x10’ - 7’x14’: 2 axles. 706- offs. Call Ric 706-400-2964. NT(Aug5) STATE OF GEORGIA before a probate court clerk, and filing fees 745-7140. N(Aug5) Lost in woods behind NT(Jul15-Aug5) COUNTY OF UNION must be tendered with your objections, unless IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY The undersigned does hereby certify that Mo- you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- UC Pet Hospital a week ago STATE OF GEORGIA tivated Army Seeking Heaven LLC conducting tact probate court personnel for the required BRAND NEW SWIVEL Contact Russ Brown LICENSED HAIRDRESSER IN RE: ESTATE OF a business as Headwaters Fish Camp in the amount of filing fees. If any objections are CHAIR with ottoman, red and 706-781-4933 RONDLE CHANCY MATHIS City of Blairsville, County of Union, State of filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later NEEDED: Cut Loose call 706- DECEASED Georgia under the name of and that the nature date. If no objections are filed, the petition may white, Aztec pattern - $1500 for 455-2508. N(Jul15-Aug5) ESTATE NO. 2024-187 of the business is food services, events, fund be granted without a hearing. both. 2 beautiful solid oak bar NOTICE raising and that the names and addresses of Kristin Stephens Stanley BANKRUPTCY [For discharge from office and all liability] the persons, firms, or partnership owning and Judge of the Probate Court stools - $100 each or $150 for both. Beautiful ceramic table COMMERCIAL PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF LARITA SADLER ROBERTS carrying on said trade or business are: Georgia W. McGill, 94 Ford Mountain Rd, Blairsville, GA By: Charla Dyer Deputy Clerk lamp - $25. Call 706-897-5639. N(Aug5) RENTALS DEBT RELIEF A/K/A RITA ROBERTS FOR DISCHARGE AS EX- ECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF RONDLE CHANCY MATHIS, DECEASED. 30512. N(Jul29,Aug5) 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Blairsville, GA 30512 Address THE LANCE To Whom it may concern: NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS (706) 439-6006 This is to notify you to file an objection, if there IN RE: ESTATE OF Robert Allen Sands Telephone Number HUSQUVARNA RIDING ABLE MINI STORAGE. LAW FIRM, P.C. is any, to the above-referenced petition, in All creditors of the estate of Robert Allen N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) MOWER: YTH 2348, 42” cut, 5x10 & 10x15 available. Call this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August Sands, deceased, late of Union County, Georjust serviced, good condition. 706-745-8834. N(Apr24-ufn) FREE 17, 2026. BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the gia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JU- DICIAL CIRCUIT, $700 obo 478.361.2772. NT(Aug5) petition must be in writing, setting forth the law, and all persons indebted to law, and all IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA CONSULTATION Blairsville grounds of any such objections. All objections should be sworn to before a notary public or persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Case No.: 2026 10280 FMDL In Re: The Marriage of: YARD SALE Picker’s Barn 57 Sears Way Blairsville, GA 30514 before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- Representative. This 26th day of June, 2026. BY: April Churchwell LYRIC ELLEN BROWN, Petitioner/Wife, and 706-835-1212 & Storage tact probate court personnel for the required 420 Silas Road KOHL JOSEPH BROWN, GARAGE SALE - Fri/Sat Aug WE ARE A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY. WE amount of filing fees. If any objections are Dahlonega, GA 30533 Respondent/Husband. filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later ATTORNEY: Shelly Townley Martin Amended 7 & 8, 8am-1pm. 303 Wolf- HELP PEOPLE FILE FOR BANKRUPTCY RELIEF. date. If no objections are filed, the petition may 133 Prominence Court Suite 210 NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MAR- from $50/month stake Rd, Blairsville. Tools, be granted without a hearing. Dawsonville, GA 30534 RIAGE Kristin Stephens Stanley N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) TО: KОHL JOSEPH BROWN some bldg supplies, household items, clothing, some electron- LEGAL ADS Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS 283 Nichols Circle, Blairsville, GA 30512 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissoluics. A lot of everything, way 10x10 thru 20x30 NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 IN RE: ESTATE OF Gary Austin Kellman, Estate No. 2026-62 tion of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your too much to list! Rain or shine. N(Aug5) You can sell from your unit! IN RE: ESTATE OF Dale Howard Garner All creditors of the estate of Dale Howard Gar- Blairsville, GA 30512 Address All creditors of the estate of Gary Austin Kell- man deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, written defenses, if any, to it on LYRIC ELLEN BROWN, (706) 439-6006 are hereby notified to render in their demands whose address is: ESTATE SALE – BLAIRS- (706) 745-0097 ner, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands Telephone Number N(Aug5) to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons in- The Law Offices of Brandon L, Law, PLLC 390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 2300 VILLE – 6000 area of Gum- 19/129 South of Square 1.25 miles! to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons in- debted to said estate are required to make Orlando FL 32801 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY immediate payment to the Personal Repre- on or before Sept 14, 2026 and file the original log. We will have dozens of debted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Repre- STATE OF GEORGIA sentative. with the clerk of this Court at: signs out. Saturday Aug 8. 8am – 3pm rain or shine. Tools, an- RESIDENTIAL sentative. This 10th day of July, 2026. IN RE: ESTATE OF DAVID RANDALL BRUNSON DECEASED This 10th day of July, 2026. BY: Rodrick Lee Benedict 7928 SE Swan Avenue Volusia County Clerk of Courts 101 N. Alabama Avenue DeLand, FL 32724 tiques, Hobart restaurant equip- RENTALS BY: Dollie Ellen Garner 115 Coosa Way ESTATE NO. 2022-19 NOTICE Hobe Sound, FL 33455 N(Aug5,12,19,26) before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may ment, silver coins, furniture, Blairsville, GA 30512 [For discharge from office and all liability] be entered against you for the relief demanded ATTORNEY: Daniel J. Davenport collectables, Dale Earnhardt, 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE PO Box 923 PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF ANDREW L. BRUNSON FOR NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Laurie Dawn Kellman, Estate in the petition. Copies of all court documents in this case, books, dishes, woodshop tools, HOMES: In Union & Fannin Blairsville, GA 30514 DISCHARGE AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE No. 2026-64 including orders, are available at the Clerk of tons of other items. Pictures Counties. Also a 2BD House for N(Jul15,22,29,Aug5) ESTATE OF DAVID RANDALL BRUNSON, DE- All creditors of the estate of Laurie Dawn Kell- the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these CEASED. man deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, documents upon request. on TnT Estate Sales Facebook rent. Units can be GRFA. Hud NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS To Whom it may concern: are hereby notified to render in their demands You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s IN RE: ESTATE OF MORRIS GLENN BRACKETT Page. 828-557-8223 if you get Approved. Call (706) 633-6436 or All creditors of the estate of MORRIS GLENN This is to notify you to file an objection, if there to the undersigned according to law, and all office notified of your current address. You is any, to the above-referenced petition, in persons indebted to law, and all persons in- may file Designation of Current Mailing and lost. 49 years selling experi- 1-828-837-4861. N(Feb11,UFN) BRACKETT deceased, late of Union County, this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August debted to said estate are required to make E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Ap- Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their ence in both the USA and Eu- demands to the undesigned according to 17, 2026. immediate payment to the Personal Repre- proved Family Law Form 12.915. Future papers rope. Thousands of followers. FOR RENT ONE BEDROOM, law, and all persons indebted to law, and all BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the sentative. in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to petition must be in writing, setting forth the This 10th day of July, 2026. the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. 25% commission is all you pay. ONE BATH Cabin in the woods. persons indebted to said estate are required grounds of any such objections. All objections BY: Rodrick Lee Benedict WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law 630 Crump Creek Road. $1000 to make immediate payment to the Personal should be sworn to before a notary public or 7928 SE Swan Avenue Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic (15% on coins and other col- Representative. before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Hobe Sound, FL 33455 disclosure of documents and information. Faillectables.) No money down. month, first, last and security. This 8th day of July 2026 must be tendered with your objections, unless N(Aug5,12,19,26) ure to comply can result in sanctions, includ- 706-781-9791. N(Jul29-Aug5) BY: Rhonda Leigh Dial you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- ing dismissal or striking of pleadings. Have your estate items seen by 1715 Cole Creek Road tact probate court personnel for the required IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Dated: July 13, 2026 followers all over the world. Dallas, GA. 30157 amount of filing fees. If any objections are STATE OF GEORGIA LAURA E ROTH WE ARE PLEASED ATTORNEY: filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later IN RE: ESTATE OF CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Single items to full estates. We TO PRESENT AN Kenya L. Patton date. If no objections are filed, the petition may WANDA SUE CUMMINGS BY: /s/ D. Waszak sell it all. NT(Aug5) 44 Blue Ridge Street, Suite B be granted without a hearing. DECEASED DEPUTY CLERK EXCEPTIONAL RENTAL Blairsville, GA. 30512 Kristin Stephens Stanley ESTATE NO. 2026-92 N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) LARGE YARD SALE located OPPORTUNITY. This inviting N(Jul15,22,29,Aug5) Judge of the Probate Court residence features three well- By: Charla Dyer at Enchanted Valley Pavilion NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Deputy Clerk behind the pasture store. 3958 appointed bedrooms and one IN RE: ESTATE OF Charles Hixon Guest, Jr. 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 All creditors of the estate of Charles Hixon Riverbank Run, Hiawassee. and a half bathrooms, fully Guest, Jr., deceased, late of Union County, Blairsville, GA 30512 Address August 6th – 7th from 8 AM furnished, providing comfortable Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their (706) 439-6006 demands to the undersigned according to to 5 PM and August 8th from living spaces. Situated law, and all persons indebted to law, and all Telephone Number N(Aug5) 8 AM to 12 PM. Rain or shine. directly on the picturesque persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Household items, clothes, de- riverfront, the property offers Representative. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA pression glass, etc, too much to stunning views and a tranquil This 10th day of July, 2026. IN RE: ESTATE OF BY: Cynthia C. Guest list. NT(Aug5) atmosphere, ideal for those 175 Smoke Rise Ridge DAVID RANDALL BRUNSON DECEASED seeking a serene environment. Blairsville, GA 30512 ESTATE NO. 2022-19 The home is conveniently ATTORNEY: Daniel J. Davenport NOTICE WANTED located at 4118 Riverbank Run PO Box 923 Blairsville, GA 30514 [For discharge from office and all liability] PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY in the charming community WE BUY & TRADE GUNS N(Jul15,22,29,Aug5) Re: PETITION OF ANDREW L. BRUNSON FOR DISCHARGE AS TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATOR JUNK CARS: We pay CASH of Hiawassee, Georgia. This NOTICE OF INTENT TO INCORPORATE OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID RANDALL BRUNSON, GUNSMITH ON SITE desirable property is available Notice is given that Articles of Incorporation DECEASED. for junk cars. Call (706) 379- for PATTERSONS HOMES UNITED, INC. will To Whom it may concern: 3190. N(Jun21,UFN) for rent at a competitive monthly be delivered to the Secretary of State for fil- This is to notify you to file an objection, if there rate of $1,200. For additional ing in accordance with the Georgia Business is any, to the above-referenced petition, in WANTED - TOP DOLLAR PAID: Blairsville Pick- information or to schedule a personal tour, please contact Corporation Code. The initial registered office of the Corporation will be located at 61 Lloyd this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August 17, 2026. 190 BLUE RIDGE STREET, BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 Dragstrip Road, Blairsville, Georgia 30512, and BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the its registered agent at such address is Jamey er’s Barn. Antiques, Clean Shirley directly at 702-418- Patterson. petition must be in writing, setting forth the (706) 745-GUNS (4867) grounds of any such objections. All objections Furniture, Collectibles, 4360. We look forward to This 28th day of July, 2026. should be sworn to before a notary public or Jamey Patterson Pottery, Art, Glassware, Farm assisting you. NT(Aug5) 61 Lloyd Dragstrip Road before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless Equipment & More! Gold Blairsville, GA 30512 & Silver Coins, Jewelry. N(Aug5,12) Top dollar paid! 1 mile on HELP WANTED 19/129 South of the Square! 706-745-0097. N(Jun5,ufn) LUCKY DOG HOSPITAL- ITY NOW HIRING: Lucky’s, SCRAP CARS WANTED - Sammies Subs, Teppanyaki Top Dollar Paid including pick- Time, Blairsville Restaurant, up - call or text Todd at Tank and Pizza Belly Hiring for Line Town USA - 706.633.6072 Cooks, Bartenders, Managers, leave msg. N(Jul15,ufn) Servers, Apply in Person at res- taurant of your choice. NT(Mar18,ufn) GAINFULLY EMPLOYED 3 6 - Y E A R - O L D M A L E PART TIME HELP WANT- SEEKING TO RENT A PET- ED: Need part time office FRIENDLY ROOM. Willing help/salesperson for the Towns to assist with cleaning, cooking, County area. Send resume to yard work, chores, etc. Please northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail call/text Jeremy at 706-994- .com or stop by the North Geor- 5985. N(Apr1,ufn) gia News office at 266 Cleve- land Street, Blairsville, GA. 25 Years of Experience PETS NT(ufn,nc) LICENSED MASSAGE Now Accepting Property Listings www.georgiaemr.com MALTESE PUPPIES: THERAPIST. Full Time/Part Time. Top Pay. Blairsville Re- (877) 307-3367 PRICE REDUCED. First shots, dewormed, registered sort Spa. Apply in person. 366 and health guarantee. $550- Paradise Road, Blairsville, GA. CABIN RENTAL $850. Call 770-894-9991. NT(Jul22- Any day, 10 - 6 p.m. 706-745- IN BEAUTIFUL WEARS VALLEY Aug12) 7483. N(Sept28,ufn) GATEWAY TO THE SMOKIES FULL-BLOODED GER- MEN ON THE MOVE IS GATLINBURG—PIGEON FORGE MAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES NOW HIRING MOVERS $500. Already had the 1st shot / TOTERS. Must be a team and dewormed. 6 weeks old on player, drug free, have a valid August 2nd. AKC registered drivers license and able to lift parents on site. 706-851-5753. heavy furniture. Please call 706- N(Aug5) 379-6683. Located in Young Harris. NT(Dec24,ufn) NOTICE Union County Board of Elections issues the call for an advisory referendum election for the purpose of submitting a question to the electors of Union County to determine COVE CREEK COTTAGE: Cozy, unique setting next to Cove Creek, whether a majority of said electors desire 2 BR/2 BA, fireplace, hot tub, king bed, private yet convenient, the governing authority to be changed from sleeps six. FOR MORE INFO & DVROHFRPPLVVLRQHUWRD¿YHPHPEHUERDUG RESERVATIONS CALL... of commissioners. The advisory referendum In The Smokies election shall be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 with the General Election. Cabin Rentals Ask for Cove Elizabeth Stevens, Creek Cottage Board of Elections 800-893-7274
August 5, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7B NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: William Tate Asherbranner Blairsville, GA 30512 COUNTY RECORDS. which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY BERNARDINE DUER- and , ATTORNEY: Eddy A. Corn THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS TO NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE UNDER POWER any matters which might be disclosed by an BECK Minor Child(ren) 253 Big Sky Drive BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN EMC AS RECORDED IN UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA accurate survey and inspection of the property, All creditors of the estate of MARY BERNAR- Civil Action File No. 26-CV-257-RG Hiawassee, GA 30546 DEED BOOK 279, PAGE 42 AND DEED BOOK 279, THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning DINE DUERBECK deceased, late of Union NOTICE OF PETITION TO CHANGE NAME N(Aug5,12,19,26) PAGE 44, UNION COUNTY RECORDS. INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and mat- County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render Georgia, Union County THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO A RIGHT-OF- THAT PURPOSE. ters of record superior to the Security Deed in their demands to the undesigned according Notice is hereby given that Sara Elizabeth Nix, NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS WAY TO UNION COUNTY AS RECORDED IN DEED Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- first set out above. to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all the undersigned, filed this Petition to the Su- IN RE: ESTATE OF Marilyn E. Thomasson BOOK 126, PAGE 67, UNION COUNTY RECORDS. tained in a Security Deed given by Raymond L. To the best knowledge and belief of the unpersons indebted to said estate are required perior Court of Union County, Georgia on the All creditors of the estate of Marilyn E. Thom- Said property being known as: 71 GOLDEN Fiore and Annette M. Fiore to Urban Financial dersigned, the parties in possession of the to make immediate payment to the Personal day of , 20, praying for a change in the name of asson, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, RIDGE RD, BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 Group dated February 16, 2010 and recorded property are Estate of Raymond L. Fiore Sr. aka Representative. minor child(ren) from William Tate Asherbanner are hereby notified to render in their demands To the best of the undersigned’s knowledge, on February 23, 2010 in Deed Book 826, Page Raymond L. Fiore or tenant(s); and said prop- This 15th day of July 2026 to William Tate Nix, and from to . to the undersigned according to law, and all the party or parties in possession of said prop- 677, Union County, Georgia Records, and later erty is more commonly known as 161 Duncan BY: Deborah Anne Parr Notice is hereby given pursuant to law to any persons indebted to law, and all persons in- erty is/are NIKITA S ROSS AND KATHY E ROSS assigned to LLACG Community Investment Mill Road, Blairsville, GA 30512. 4117 Chestnut Grove Road interested or affect party to appear in said debted to said estate are required to make or tenant(s). Fund by Assignment of Security Deed recorded The sale will be conducted subject (1) to con- Keedysville, MD. 21756 Court and to file objections to such name immediate payment to the Personal Represen- Said property will be sold subject to the fol- on April 10, 2026 in Deed Book 1449, Page 449, firmation that the sale is not prohibited under ATTORNEY: change. Objections must be filed with said tative. lowing: (1) any outstanding ad valorem taxes Union County, Georgia Records, conveying the the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final con- Kenya L. Patton Court within thirty days of the filing of said This 31st day of July, 2026. (including taxes which are a lien, whether or after-described property to secure a Note in firmation and audit of the status of the loan 44 Blue Ridge Street, Suite B Petition. BY:Cindy T. Shearin not yet due and payable); (2) the right of re- the original principal amount of Five Hundred with the holder of the security deed. Blairsville, GA. 30512 This 27th day of July 2026. 10 Stratford demption of any taxing authority; (3) any mat- Three Thousand Four Hundred and 00/100 Dol- LLACG Community Investment Fund as Attor- N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) Sara Elizabeth Nix Los Angeles, CA 90266 ters which might be disclosed by an accurate lars ($503,400.00), with interest thereon as set ney in Fact for Annette M Fiore aka Annette Petitioner, pro se Pamela S. Townsend survey and inspection of the property; and (4) forth therein, there will be sold at public outcry Fiore and Raymond L. Fiore Sr. aka Raymond NOTICE OF CHANGE OF CORPORATE NAME N(Aug5,12,19,26) 9839 Pineola Drive any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning to the highest bidder for cash before the court- L. Fiore Notice is hereby given that Articles of Amend- Orlando, FL 32836 ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and any house door of Union County, Georgia, within the McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC ment to change the name of Pathway Christian NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS ATTORNEY: William D. Rhoads superior security deeds or matters of record. legal hours of sale on September 1, 2026 the 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Counseling, Inc. to New Dawn Advocacy Inc IN RE: ESTATE OF Rowan Metcalf PO Box 1098 Said sale will be conducted subject to the fol- following described property: Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 have been delivered to the Secretary of State All creditors of the estate of Rowan Metcalf, Gainesville, GA 30503 lowing: (1) confirmation that the sale is not All that tract or parcel of land lying and being 404-474-7149 for filing in accordance with the Georgia Non- deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are N(Aug5,12,19,26) prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; in Land Lots 48 & 61, 10th District, 1st Section, MTG File No.: 26-002599-01 profit Corporation Code. The registered office hereby notified to render in their demands to and (2) final confirmation and audit of the sta- Union County, Georgia, containing 1.0 acre, N(Aug5,12,19,26) of the corporation is located at 417 Blue Ridge the undersigned according to law, and all per- STATE OF GEORGIA tus of the loan with the holder of the Order to and being shown as Lot Twenty (20) of Duncan St, Ste N, Blairsville, GA 30512. sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted COUNTY OF UNION foreclose. Mill, on a plat of survey by Lane S. Bishop & IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY N(Aug5,12) to said estate are required to make immediate NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER No representation, warranty or guaranty, ex- Associates, RS #1575, dated 5/20/92, recorded STATE OF GEORGIA payment to the Personal Representative. Pursuant to the Order of the Superior Court press or implied, oral or written, shall be given in Plat Book 27 pages 140-142 Union County IN RE: ESTATE OF NOTICE This 31st day of July, 2026. of Union, GA dated July 15, 2026 in the mat- regarding (a) the condition or state of repair of records, which description on said plat is in- LILLIE FRANCES PUETT Notice is given that the Application To Register BY: Barbara Rosenstock ter of PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC. vs. KATHY any improvements on the properties, (b) the corporated herein by reference and made a DECEASED A Business To Be Conducted Under Trade Name, 325 Owen Glen Drive ROSS; NIKITA ROSS; AND THE UNITED STATES use, generation, storage, release, disposal or part hereof. The property is conveyed subject ESTATE NO. 2026-139 Partnership or Others which has been delivered Blairsville, GA 30512 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVEL- presence of any pollutants, contaminants or to the restrictions recorded in Deed Book 197 PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION to the Towns County Clerk of Court for filing. ATTORNEY: Rebecca Kendrick OPMENT; Civil Action SUCV2026000055, which other dangerous substances upon, beneath pages 697-702, amended in Deed Book 217 NOTICE The undersigned does hereby certify that PO Box 1286 inter alia, forecloses the right to redemption in or near the properties, (c) compliance of the page 403 and in Deed Book 255 page 88 Union To whom it may concern: Mountain Lakes Cabinetry, LLC. is conducting Blairsville, GA 30514 the Security Deed executed by NIKITA S ROSS properties with any applicable law, regulation County records. Alicia Ann Miller has petitioned to be appointed a business for profit in the County of Towns, in N(Aug5,12,19,26) AND KATHY E ROSS to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC or ordinance, including, but not limited to, any The property is conveyed subject to the power- administrator(s) of the estate of Lillie Frances the state of Georgia, under the name of “Lakev- REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS GRANTEE, land use, zoning or environmental regulation or line easement granted to Blue Ridge Mountain Puett deceased, of said county. (The petitioner iew Flooring & Tile” and that the nature of the NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS AS NOMINEE FOR HOMESTAR FINANCIAL CORP. building code, or (d) any other matter regarding EMC. has also applied for waiver of bond, waiver of business is flooring and tile and that the names IN RE: ESTATE OF Lowell Wayne Brinton in the original principal amount of $93,279.00 the condition of the properties; (ii) the Petition- The property is subject to the reservation of reports, waiver of statements, and/or grant of and addresses of the corporation, person, firms All creditors of the estate of Lowell Wayne dated March 9, 2020, and recorded in Deed ers or Parties in Interest are not obligated to a previous title holder of a road right of way certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12or partnership owning and carrying on said Brinton, deceased, late of Union County, Book 1186, Page 547, Union County records, alter, repair, or improve the Properties in any across the east line of the above described lot. 261.) All interested persons are hereby notified trade or business is Mountain Lakes Cabinetry, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their said Security Deed being last transferred to manner; and (iii) any purchaser shall accept Said easement shall begin at the centerline of to show cause why said petition should not be LLC, 1341 US Hwy 76E, Hiawassee, GA 30546 demands to the undersigned according to PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC. in Deed Book the properties in their “AS-IS, AND WITH ALL Coosa Creek at the Northeast corner of said lot granted. All objections to the petition must be STEPHANIE W. MCCONNELL law, and all persons indebted to law, and all 1306, Page 10, Union County records, the un- FAULTS” condition, with all present and future and run thence S 5 45 17 W 185.33 feet to a in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such ATTORNEY IN FACT FOR persons indebted to said estate are required dersigned as authorized by said Court Order, faults or defects, and without any representa- point; thence in a Northwest direction of the objections, and must be filed with the Court by Mountain Lakes Cabinetry, LLC. to make immediate payment to the Personal will sell at public outcry to the highest bid- tion or warranty of the Petitioners or Parties in centerline on Coosa Creek, said point being 10:00 a.m. on or before September 8, 2026. N(Aug5,12) Representative. der for cash, before the Courthouse door in Interest. Said properties shall be conveyed to West 30 feet from the Northeast corner of said BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the This 31st day of July, 2026. said County, or at such other place as lawfully the purchaser via fee simple deed without any lot; thence East 30 feet to the Northeast corner petition must be in writing, setting forth the NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS BY: Judy Ann Brinton designated, within the legal hours of sale, on warranties or representations as to title. of said lot, to the point of beginning. grounds of any such objections. All objections IN RE: ESTATE OF Raymond C. Rumplik 160 Largen Road 9/1/2026, the property in said Security Deed A copy of this notice of sale has been given to Tax ID #: 072 105 should be sworn to before a notary public or All creditors of the estate of Raymond C. Rum- Blairsville, GA 30512 and described as follows: the Petitioners and Parties in Interest as re- The debt secured by said Security Deed has before a probate court clerk, and filing fees plik deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, ATTORNEY: Richard W. Sarrell II ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING quired by Georgia law. been and is hereby declared due because of, must be tendered with your objections, unless are hereby notified to render in their demands PO Box 517 AND BEING IN THE 10TH DISTRICT, 1ST SEC- Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Part- among other possible events of default, failure you qualify to file as an indigent party. Conto the undersigned according to law, and all Blairsville, GA 30514 TION, LAND LOT 27 OF UNION COUNTY, GEOR- ners, PLLC, located at the business address to pay the indebtedness as and when due and tact probate court personnel for the required persons indebted to law, and all persons in- N(Aug5,12,19,26) GIA, CONTAINING 0.93 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, of 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA in the manner provided in the Note and Secu- amount of filing fees. If any objections are debted to said estate are required to make AND BEING LOT 4 AS SHOWN ON A SURVEY BY 30004 is the entity that will conduct the public rity Deed. The debt remaining in default, this filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later immediate payment to the Personal Represen- NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS ROCHESTER & ASSOCIATES, INC. DATED JULY sale, and may be further contacted at the con- sale will be made for the purpose of paying the date. If no objections are filed, the petition may tative. IN RE: ESTATE OF Michael Richard Hill 24, 1996 AND RECORDED IN UNION COUNTY tact information below. same and all expenses of this sale, as provided be granted without a hearing. This 24th day of July, 2026. All creditors of the estate of Michael Richard RECORDS IN PLAT BOOK 40, PAGE 63. SAID THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLEC- in Security Deed and by law, including attor- Kristin Stephens Stanley BY: Russel C. Rumplik Hill, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, PLAT IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY IN- ney’s fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s Judge of the Probate Court 5492 Pine Crest Road are hereby notified to render in their demands HERETO, FOR A FULL AND COMPLETE DESCRIP- FORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT fees having been given). By: Charla Dyer Young Harris, GA 30582 to the undersigned according to law, and all TION OF THE ABOVE PROPERTY. PURPOSE. Your mortgage servicer, Statebridge Company, Deputy Clerk ATTORNEY: Lawrence S. Sorgen persons indebted to law, and all persons in- THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO AND BENEFITS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Part- LLC, as servicer for LLACG Community Invest- 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 PO Box 67 debted to said estate are required to make FROM MATTERS AS SHOWN IN THE ABOVE REF- ners, PLLC ment Fund, can be contacted at 866-466-3360 Blairsville, GA 30512 Hiawassee, GA 30546 immediate payment to the Personal Represen- ERENCE PLAT OF SURVEY. 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 or by writing to 6061 S. Willow Drive, Suite 300, Address N(Jul29,Aug5,12,19) tative. THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO AND BENEFITS Alpharetta, GA 30004 Greenwood Village, CO 80111, to discuss pos- (706) 439-6006 This 31st day of July, 2026. FROM A PRIVATE ROAD MAINTENANCE AGREE- Phone: 470-321-7112 sible alternatives to avoid foreclosure. Telephone Number IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF UNION COUNTY BY: Linda M. Hill MENT AND EASEMENT AGREEMENT AS RE- Firm File No. 25-381130 Said property will be sold subject to any out- N(Aug5,12,19,26) STATE OF GEORGIA 804 Highland Crossing CORDED IN DEED BOOK 844, PAGE 626, UNION N(Aug5,12,19,26) standing ad valorem taxes (including taxes DYER’S DEPENDABLE BRIAN WIGHT CON- ECOSOUTH SOLUTIONS: COMPLETE PLUMBING & THOMAS PAINTING INTE- RAY’S RENOVATIONS: Re- HOME IMPROVEMENTS: STRUCTION: Specializing in Commercial Wastewater Sys- ELECTRICAL: Residential, RIOR/EXTERIOR. Pressure modeling, House Painting, Car- Deck repair or replacement and Leaking Basements, Founda- tems. Residential Septic Instal- Commercial, Free Estimates, washing. Houses, decks, drive- pentry, Pressure Washing, Finish staining. Interior and exterior tion Structural Failures, Sep- lation. Erosion Control. Creek & Locally Owned, Operated, 35 ways, fences, boat docks, much Basements and More! 30 Years painting. Roof to foundation tic Syst em New and Repairs. Shoreline Restoration. Licensed Years Experience. All Work more. Family owned and oper- Experience! Free Estimates! repairs, plus interior remodel- Locally Building for 45 Years. & Insured. Free Consultations. Guaranteed. Repairs, Remodel- ated. 706-994-7681. NT(July29-Aug19) Call 706-897-2287. N(Jul17,ufn) ing. Grading and retaining walls. Call 706-897-5600. NT(Jul19,ufn)Serving North Georgia. Call ing, New Construction. Stephen Lawn Care, Mowing, Weedeat- today to discuss your project! Hunt, 706-897-8639 or 828-342- M O N T G O M E RY C O N - ALL CLEAR WINDOW ing, Mulching, Aeration, lime S C O T T A R M S T R O N G (706)400-8145 N(Jul29,ufn) 5531. N(Aug31,ufn) CRETE - Serving Blairsville WASHERS - Commercial & and fertilization, overseeding. HOME REPAIR: Fully since 1997. Concrete, slabs, Residential - Free Estimates (706) 745-1201. N(Apr22-ufn) Insured, Home Repairs and IFIXIT PC REPAIR ON THE UGLY CONCRETE? COVER driveways, patios. Call 706-781- - Reasonable Rates (828) 371- Renovations. Any Homeowner GO: Call us at (762) 525-0288 IT! Decorative concrete coat- 1806. N(Jul1-Aug26) 3936 or (706) 781-5585. NT(Jul24,ufn) GUY’S JUNK REMOVAL: Needs. Paypal/Zelle Accepted. for Services, Price estimates, and ings: epoxy’s, acrylics, over- Big or small, we take it all! We Accepted. Text (Preferred) or any questions. We are the only lays, protective sealers, condo all the loading, hauling & Call 706-897-8614. N(May29,ufn) PC repair business in the area crete levelers. Lic & Ins. for 43 HERMOSO cleanup. You name it, we haul it! We do Estate Sales, Attics, Base- that offers at-home services such FRIENDS MOVING COM- as: Repair, Computer Speed-Up, PANY: Local and Long Dis- Virus Removal, Computer Les- years. uglyconcretecoverit.com and facebook. 706-896-4560. Collier SERVICE & ments, Garages, Foreclosures, NT(Sept20,ufn) LANDSCAPE etc. Call Robert Guy 706-835- tance. Credit cards accepted sons, and Gadget Installation 706-896-7720. 1-888-794-0526 (Printers, Speakers, Webcam, TONY GUY ROOFING: 706- Electric JOSE HERMOSO 5371. NT(Jun19,ufn) Serving Georgia since 1997 MCA 210640. NT(Jul8,ufn) etc.) Visit our website at: www. 487-0723 Over 35 years experi- Find me on i¿xitpcrepair.com NT(Oct22-ufn) ence, free estimates. Shingles, Residential | Commercial ABSOLUTE CUSTOM metal, Àat roofs, screw replace- 706.400.9065 CABIN CARE Industrial and Controls FRESH CUT: Lawncare, Land- ment. Also pressure wash your 706.897.4195 scaping, Trimming, Mulching metal roof, clean gutters, sell Emergency Repairs josehermoso73@gmail.com Inside and Out Painting, Staining, Roof & Gutter Care & Leaf Blowing. Call 706-897- gutters, screen and put them on. Licensed & Insured 5369. N(Jun18,ufn) 5 year guarantee on all labor. FREE ESTIMATES Pressure Washing Call Collin 478-396-1098 LAWNCARE | TREE WORK | CARPENTRY & Soft Wash Available N(Jun24,ufn) collierelectric@aol.com CONCRETE | PAINT | DECKS | REMODELING PRESSURE WASHING | & MUCH MORE Routine Maintenance Plans Local and Long HOME ABSOLUTE Serving locals over 25 years Georgia Mountain Distance Movers Collins TREE SERVICE REMODELING Painting “North GA’s #1 Movers” “Best in Quality, Service & Follow-up” COLOR REPAIRS 706-379-6683 Interior & Exterior Diana Howell Trimming, Cut Down, Complete Clean-Up, Painting, Staining, 706-781-1652 Bucket Truck, Chipper, Stump Removal, Interior, Exterior, Pressure Washing, Deck Lot Clearing, House Sites, Baths, Decks, Doors. Restore & Home Repair Responsive Professional Punctual Painting, Trim, Commercial & Residential Basements, Septic Systems, Backhoe, Popcorn Ceiling Removal 20 years experience FREE Estimates! View Disaster BobCat, Dozier & Dump Truck Floors & Installation Insured! Clearing Relief =I<<Û<klaeYl]kÛÝ@fkmj]ÛÝÛI]^]j]f[]k Insured David 706.897.5320 Removal Trimming CALL 706-897-2312 706-970-7641 68absolutecolor@gmail.com Property Under Cleanup Free Estimates Brushing Gravel Driveways Large Vehicles Road Services ALDERWOOD TREE SERVICE Erosion Control Recoveries 828.347.1909 Water Drainage 24/7 Safe & Fast Towing in Blairsville LICENSED INSURED *No Asphalt Jobs* Coltin Hemphill Office: 706-745-2003 Cell: 706-487-9339 515 Blue Ridge Street Blairsville, GA 30512 Knight’s Tree Service Bucket Truck 20+ Yrs. experience Topping, Removal, Chipping Free Estimates • Insured Otis Knight, Owner BUSSELL’S MOBILE AUTO REPAIR Cell 706-781-7649 ROGER L. BUSSELL 153 New Jewell Mason Road Blairsville, GA 30512 BRENT’S HANDYMAN SERVICES New Homes Õ Additions Garages Õ Decks Jonathan Payne Wood Finish & Repair 706-897-2398 ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Tongue & Groove ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Flooring and Walls Fully Insured Tile Repair and Showers Drywall Repair and Flooring • Dangerous Tree Removal Acoustic Ceilings • Stump Grinding • Mulching CALL 706-400-0316 • Large and Small Acreage Clearing
Page 8B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 5, 2026 Saturday Cruise-In at the Union County Farmers Market Saturday. We had 45 beautiful Next Saturday, August 20,000 original miles. For classics registered and not a 8th, Blairsville Cruisers will a $10 donation, tickets now single drop of rain! There was be attending the Jacky Jones offer three chances to win: great music, door prizes and Customer Appreciation event Grand Prize: The Ford Ranger amazing food. Everyone had in Hayesville. And, the follow- FX4 or $5,000 Cash; Second a great time. We had 2 Club ing weekend, don’t forget to Prize: $1,000 Cash; Third Choice Award winners. Keith join us on the Square in Blairs- Prize: $500 Cash. Edwards from Blairsville with ville (August 15) from 2-5. How to Enter: Buy- Despite the threat of his beautiful 1935 Ford Pick- Win Big with the 2006 ing tickets is easier than ever. rain, Blairsville Cruisers had up and Mike McCracken from Raffle Truck: This year’s raffle Purchase online at Blairsvila great show at the Union Hiawassee with his gorgeous features a pristine 2006 Ford leCruisers.com via credit/debit County Farmers Market on 1966 Chevy Suburban. Ranger FX4 with less than card or visit local partners United Community Bank and Batteries Plus+ in Blairsville. 3. GLOCK G19 9MM 4. WEATHERBY ORION 5. S&W .44 Tickets are also available from 1. RUGER 45 ACP 2. HENRY BIG BOY 30/30 SHOTGUN 12/30/3 MOUNTAIN GUN any club member and at all live events. Cruising for a Cause: Ev- ery ticket serves a higher pur- pose. Since 2007, The Blairs- Club Choice Award Winner Keith Edwards alongside Micky Lince, 6. WINCHESTER SXP 7. RUGER WRANGLER 9. KIMBER MIDNIGHT 10. TITAN SHOTGUN Club VP 8. RUGER .308 20” ville Cruisers have raised an TURKEY SHOTGUN COMBO CUSTOM SEMI-AUTOMATIC average of $50,000 annually to support local children and veterans. Proceeds fund vital programs like “Shop with a Cruiser,” “Shop with a Cop,” 14. BROWNING A5 15. REMINGTON 700 11. S&S .380 BODYGUARD 12. TIKKA T3X 13. KEL TEC 22 LR HUNTER SHOTGUN RIFLE and “Shop with a Hero,” ensur- ing no child goes without dur- ing the holidays. Additionally, the club awards three annual scholarships to local technical and trade school students. 17. RUGER 10/22 20. KIMBER MICRO 9 16. SIG SAUER 365 FUSE 22 LR 18. S&W 442 38 SPL. 19. ROSSI 360B 20” RIFLE CINDER About Blairsville Cruis- ers: The Blairsville Cruisers is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organi- zation dedicated to the pres- ervation of classic automotive 21. CHARTER ARMS 22. RUGER AMERICAN 24. HENRY 22 LR culture and the support of chil- 23. TAURUS 9MM 25. S&W M&P 22WMR dren and Veterans in Union, .357 TARGET REVOLVER 22WMR STANDARD RIFLE Towns, Clay and Cherokee Club Choice Award Winner Mike McCracken alongside Micky Counties. Lince, Club VP 26. SAVAGE ARMS 27. HENRY BIG BOY 28. BROWNING HUNTER 29. S&W 10MM 30. RUGER AMERICAN River City Bank supports Blairsville 410 SHOTGUN REVOLVER .308 RIFLE FPC RIFLE 45ACP Police Department’s Shop with a Cop Program Drawing when all tickets are sold $30 per Ticket gives you THIRTY 2026 Appalachian Shrine pp Chances to Win!! Only 1,200 Tickets will be sold!! Tickets are available from any Shriner or at Alexander’s Store. Chief of Police Bear Baxter and Scott Nanney, Northeast Georgia Market President This is not a hospital charity fund raiser. Donations are not tax-deductible. River City Bank is hon- by local businesses and com- please contact Blairsville Po- ored to support the Blairsville munity members. This truly is lice Department at 706-835- *Photos of guns picture may differ from the actual product. :LQQHUPXVWEHHOLJLEOHDFFRUGLQJWRDOOVWDWHDQGIHGHUDOODZVWRSRVVHVVDÀUHDUP Police Department’s annual a local event and the proceeds 1692. Shop with a Cop Program. benefit children who live in River City Bank, found- Club Blairsville, Georgia l This program allows Blairs- Union County. ed in 2006, is a full-service ville Police Officers to take “River City Bank would community bank, offering fi- Guns are to be picked up from our generous sponsor within 30 days of draw date Union County children Christ- like to thank Chief Bear Bax- nancial solutions for personal mas shopping and provides ter and his team of Officers and business clients including groceries for their family dur- for their continued dedication deposits, loans, treasury man- Need Blueprints? ing the holidays. to the Duck Derby, Shop with agement, and brokerage ser- The 2026 Shop with a a Cop, and for the work that vices. We are headquartered Cop Duck Derby is the prima- they do every day to support at 228 North Second Avenue ry fund raiser for this program. our community,” said Scott SW, Rome, Georgia. Thousands of rubber ducks Nanney, Northeast Georgia For more information, are released into the creek and Market President. visit www.rivercity.bank. winning duck holders will take If you would like more Member FDIC. Equal Hous- West Printing Company home fantastic prizes donated information on this event, ing Lender. For all your large format printing needs! The Historical Society presents: Take a ‘View’ on what we have! 266 Cleveland Street By Joan Hawley Drake 2 blocks up from the Square on 129 Union County Historical Society 706-745-6343 In 1851, the world’s fair in London, officially known westprinting@windstream.net as the “Great Exhibition,” featured an array of techno- logical innovations, displayed in a massive steel-and-glass pavilion known as the Crystal Palace. Queen Victoria herself was impressed by all these inventions, but one attraction that caught her eye, quite lit- erally, was a newfangled nov- elty known as the stereoscope. Charles Wheatstone was the inventor, in 1838, however, David Brewster “tweaked” the 3D apparatus with prisms instead of mirrors in 1844, which eventually led to the “kaleidoscope.” Stereoscopes were ba- sically a hand-held, non-me- Three antique stereoscopes are on display at the Historic Union chanical device that would County Courthouse in Downtown Blairsville bring the wonders of the world ture exotic locations. By plac- three of these 1910 “gizmos” into the hands of the aver- ing your eyes in the viewing are on display, right here in age middle-class Britons and lens of this wooden contrap- Blairsville. It is truly amazing Americans alike in the turn of tion that held the cards, bin- what you can “view” here at the century. ocular vision transformed the the Union County Courthouse Original stereocards print into three-dimensional Museum. After all, “We may were drawings, but then pho- scenes. be old, but you might learn Full Service Printer tographers were hired to cap- Not one, not two, but Whiskers Project something new.” com on our Wish List for Whiskers Project. Volunteers “Helping Community Cats” are needed for trapping, fos- Business Cards • Business Forms • Notecards tering, fund raising and grant Every since 2003, standing by waiting to get ster- writing. Please let your local Invitations • Blue Prints • Rack Cards • Posters Whiskers Project has been a ilized. Your help is needed now. Commissioners know we need Stamps • Labels dominate force in reducing the Whiskers Project is a private financial grants from their homeless outdoor cat popula- nonprofit organization, 501(c)3 county budgets to help us so tion through Trap, Neuter, Re- and funding is supported by we can help you with spaying turn. The phone calls for help the public. Your tax deductible and neutering. No more litters, Full Color printing at rock bottom prices! from Blairsville and Hiawassee donation can be made online, no more homeless animals. cat caretakers are daily. Our www.whiskersproject.org or This will serve the public and funds are limited and we need by mailing a check payable to help the many homeless kitten Fast, Professional Service financial help to get to the end of the cat list by year end. Whiskers Project, PO Box 575, Blairsville, GA 30514. If you surrender rates to lessen the intake at local shelters. Our Our program has already can help Spay or Neuter one cat Mission is to prevent the over- spayed and neutered over a in the Community to help oth- population of homeless kit- hundred cats this year. The ers that cannot afford a dona- tens. Follow us on Facebook, 706-745-6343 program is not a Free program and donations for our services tion, $50 or $100 per cat would be greatly appreciated. our website whiskersproject. org, email info@whiskerspro- westprinting@windstream.net are smaller than the Vet cost. If you want to help in ject.org and 1-888-872-9330. Our program is first come, first other ways, cat food donations Your kindness is greatly ap- serve. There are many cats can be made through Chewy. preciated.