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August 12, 2026 Wednesday, August 12, 2026

August 12, 2026 — North Georgia News

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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 12, 2026 Classes back in session at Union County Schools By Brittany Holbrooks the first day under our belt, evident across the system. North Georgia News and we’re excited to partner Carly Hughes’ second-grade Staff Writer with all of our parents and classroom had a wonderful Day one of the 2026- our community members and day, judging by the cheers and 2027 school year in Union community sponsors,” Bavero unanimous thumbs up when County ended with a bang said. asked. when a thunderstorm delayed Those football players “(The first day) went dismissal on Wednesday, Aug. were back at the high school great; it was good. It’s always 5. Nevertheless, the hours in time to attend a presentation very busy, but I have a great before were filled with a by Principal Josh Davis in the group of kiddos, so I’m excited collective effort from teachers Fine Arts Center to go over to be here,” Hughes said. and students of all ages to make basic rules and expectations, Across the hall, Gina VXUHWKHÀUVWGDZHQWDVZHOO like behavioral conduct and the Young agreed, for her part as possible. dress code. adding that “it was amazing. For example, Union “We don’t just bring the It’s lots of learning procedures County Elementary School whole school up here to talk and routines, but we had a great Principal Jerry Bavero shared to you just to entertain you day.” that several high school football or something like that. No, The rain began just as players were there that morning we’re trying to be proactive,” it was time to load buses, to greet the younger children, explained Davis. “Sure, we talk but that didn’t seem to and teachers and staff helped about some rules and things dampen the mood. In fact, lead the smaller students and like that, but we’re just trying the younger children were new additions to the cafeteria to set you guys up for success spotted playing in it as they for breakfast. for the year.” ran to greet their bus drivers &DUO+XJKHV·VHFRQGJUDGHFODVVURRPHQMRHGVWRUWLPHDQGRWKHUDFWLYLWLHVGXULQJWKHÀUVW “We’re so excited to get And success was See First Day of School, Page 6A day back on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Citizens Academy enjoys great community participation By Shawn Jarrard The many departments within DVVLVWWKH6KHULII·V2IÀFH7KH North Georgia News WKH6KHULII·V2IÀFHZLOODOVREH help of outside agencies is editor@nganews.com reviewed. necessary, he noted, because The inaugural class of That first session “no agency is an island.” the Union County Sheriff’s featured presentations by Henderson introduced Citizens Academy convened on outside agencies that regularly representatives from five Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Union partner with the Union County other agencies to speak, with County Schools Training Room 6KHULII·V 2IÀFH KLJKOLJKWLQJ each outlining his specific off Stadium Drive, welcoming the importance of interagency agency’s general functions as 42 community members for cooperation in bolstering the well as how it serves the local WKHVWDUWRIDÀYHZHHNMRXUQH work of local law enforcement. community: the Blairsville to get to know the Sheriff’s Sheriff Dyer started with Police Department; Georgia 2IÀFH words of welcome and a brief Department of Natural 7KLV YHU ÀUVW &LWL]HQV synopsis of his responsibilities Resources Law Enforcement Academy is scheduled for every before providing some eye- Division; Georgia Bureau of Thursday between Aug. 6 and opening statistics from the Investigations; Georgia State Sept. 3. Residents registered Sheriff ’s Office, like the Patrol; and Union County during an open enrollment URXJKO  WUDIÀF FLWDWLRQV Schools Police. period that started in May, and issued on Blood Mountain since Blairsville Police Chief WKH FODVV TXLFNO ÀOOHG XS WR March and more than $770,000 Michael “Bear” Baxter gave the point of needing a cut-off, worth of drug seizures this year. facts about his department, outperforming initial hopes of UCSO Chief Deputy remarked on the close working 20 to 30 signups. Josh Berry discussed some relationship between Blairsville Sheriff Shawn Dyer of the history of the Sheriff’s PD and the Sheriff’s Office, created the class to provide 2IÀFHVLQFHKHVWDUWHGZRUNLQJ and called special attention to participating residents with “a there 25 years ago. And a lot Dyer’s leadership as both his deeper understanding of the has changed over the years. former assistant chief and as knowledge, skills and abilities For example, since he first county sheriff. *HRUJLD'156JW%URRNV9DUQHOODQGKLV. SDUWQHU7D]KDGDEODVWJUHHWLQJ&LWL]HQV required to be a deputy in came abord, the department has DNR Capt. Derek $FDGHPDWWHQGHHVRQ7KXUVGDPhoto by Shawn Jarrard modern-day law enforcement.” grown from 17-20 employees Dillard, Cpl. Matt Johnson and Game Warden role to being halfway break in the two-hour dedicated assist role available Subjects to be covered to 94 today. Sgt. Brooks Varnell touched “law enforcement off the session. upon request to other law include everything from daily Deputy Eddie on the duties of DNR Law pavement,” while Varnell Likewise, GBI Special enforcement agencies and operations to investigations, Henderson, who is running the Enforcement, again, both in presented the biggest crowd- Agent Cliff Tippens talked district attorney offices, tactics, and crime scene class, led off the evening of terms of its dedicated daily pleaser of the night, K-9 Taz, about the many ways GBI investigating a wide range of management to give people “a presentations with an overview policing efforts and how the describing the capabilities of aids law enforcement around cases from homicide to missing solid introduction of the work of the many supporting public VWDWHRIÀFHUVKHOS8&62 KLVSDUWQHULQFULPHÀJKWLQJDQG the state and in Union County. persons and fraud. WKH6KHULII·V2IÀFHSHUIRUPVµ safety agencies that regularly Johnson likened his inviting folks to pet him at the The state outfit serves in a See Citizens Academy, Page 7A Nurse Honor Guard holds 6KRUW7HUP5HQWDO%RDUG membership kickoff meeting proposes ordinance changes By Daysha Pandolph RIKRZWRKDQGOHÀUHVµ.LPVH North Georgia News said. “Most people that are The Union County renting are coming from big Short-Term Rental Board used cities where there’s natural gas its work session meeting on as heat, so coming to a place Monday, July 27, to review where it’s got a wood-burning the county’s short-term rental stove, that’s going to be a ordinance and discuss several learning curve.” proposed revisions aimed Kimsey said the changes at improving fire safety and would primarily clarify existing HOLPLQDWLQJDSRWHQWLDOFRQÁLFW language within the ordinance of interest on the board. by adding guidance on wood- According to Short- EXUQLQJ VWRYHV ÀUHSODFHV DQG Term Rental Enforcement gas heating systems. Officer Megan Kimsey, the The board also discussed Megan Kimsey board has been reviewing the defining recreational fires 675(QIRUFHPHQW2IÀFHU ordinance throughout the year more clearly and referencing a See Short-Term Rentals, Page 2A but designated this meeting to conduct a more comprehensive audit of the regulations adopted UCSO responds to VA Clinic in 2023. Members of the Georgia Highlands Nurse Honor Guard, left to right: Debbie Miller, “It’s kind of been slowly for gunshot person Monday something we’ve been whittling $PDQGD+HQVRQ.DUHQ'LQVPRUH7HUUL:RUWKH/HVOLH+DXVFKLOG QRWSLFWXUHG0HOLVVD Around lunchtime WLPH DQG WKH 6KHULII·V 2IÀFH away at (during) every board Klopschinski). Photo/Submitted meeting,” Kimsey said. Monday, the Union County said it would release more 6KHULII·V 2IÀFH UHSRUWHG WKDW information when it could. News Special asking, “What is the Georgia during a funeral, memorial, She said most of the Union County E-911 Dispatch The Sheriff ’s Office On Monday, Aug. 3, H i g h l a n d s N u r s e H o n o r graveside, or celebration of life UHYLVLRQVFHQWHURQÀUHVDIHW received a phone call at 10:06 noted that the scene was the Georgia Highlands Nurse Guard?” The organization is services. which for the most part means a.m. about a person with a secure, with no danger to the Honor Guard held its inaugural the local chapter of a national Much like a military adding clearer language to single gunshot wound at the community by the time the membership kickoff meeting at and state network of volunteer honors ceremony, but without the ordinance to help educate Union County VA Clinic. incident was reported to the First United Methodist Church nurse honor guards that pay military components, the tribute property owners and renters Deputies and EMS public. of Union County, marking the tribute to nurses upon their recognizes a nurse’s dedication, on the safe use of recreational arrived on scene within Later on Monday, local beginning of a new chapter death by performing the compassion, and lifelong ÀUHVÀUHSLWVJULOOVDQGLQGRRU minutes and began assessing authorities said the individual dedicated to honoring nurses “Nightingale Tribute” and service to the profession. heating appliances. the situation. It was still an died from an apparent selfat the end of life. “Final Call to Duty.” These The ceremony symbolically “We want to make sure active investigation at press LQÁLFWHGJXQVKRW Many people may be ceremonies may be conducted See Nurse Honor Guard, Page 2A everyone is very much aware 8QN0Q 0DWHUV 0XVLF)HVWLYDO5HWXUQV7KLV6DWXUGD See Page 2A Arrests - 6B .GICNU$ Church - 9A Obits - 11A American Idol Winner Hannah Harper in Concert See Page 7A %NCUUKČGFU$ Sports - 2B Opinion - 4A 6KULQHUV*XQV'DV5DIÁH7LFNHWV2Q6DOH See Page 10B Turn your home into Your home’s equity is powerful—let us put it to work with a HELOC (Home Equity Line United Community Bank Blairsville 177 Hwy 515 W Blairsville, GA 30512 your dream home, ofGetCredit) from United Community. flexible funds when you need them. with a HELOC. Learn more at ucbi.com/heloc. 6

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Page 2A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 Friends of Library celebrates 30th Anniversary IO N C O U N UN S O F ed to anyone’s home décor or TY LI ND to give as a gift. The mother BR FRIE ARY and child motif might be just what you’re looking for to give to a new mother, a farm- er, or a student who is raising Advocating for Libraries, animals for 4H. We thank June Literacy, and Lifelong Learning for wanting to help us help the library in this way. Friends of Union Coun- We will have our second ty Library (FOUCL) had a Blind Date with a Book event grand celebration in July for during Blairsville’s So Long their 30th anniversary and Summer Sidewalk Sale on HEALTHY SMILES are continuing the celebration Friday, August 28, and Satur- with many more special events day, August 29. Book Bound and fundraisers this year. Bookstore has agreed to let us by Dr. B Pictured here is the lo- “borrow” their sidewalk. We cal artist whose art was dis- will have anonymous books played during June and July at (wrapped) for sale for $5 each. General, Union County Public Library. There will be a teaser on the Cosmetic & LASER ROOT June Rollins graciously do- wrapping to let buyers know Laser Dentistry CANALS nated this prize-winner from the genre and a little about the that display, complete with the book, but the title and author lovely professional framing, will not be revealed. A DVANCED C ARE IRU )28&/ WR XVH DV D UDIÁH Come buy one of the June Rollins with the People’s Choice “Stay Close” Dr. Bourguignon C LOSE T O H OME ! prize. Tickets will be 1 for $5 gently used books at the bar- PRUH  DQG EX UDIÁH WLFNHWV meeting on October 21, and and 5 for $20 with the winner gain price of $5. There will for “Stay Close.” Tickets will at our bake sale on November selected on Thursday, Novem- EH ÀFWLRQ DQG QRQÀFWLRQ be available for purchase dur- 19. Supporting Union County ber 19, (need not be present cookbooks, children’s picture ing the Blind Date with a Book Public Library just got easy NEW PATIENTS AND EMERGENCIES WELCOME to win) when we hold our fall books, mysteries, thrillers, and event, at our next membership and fun! bake sale in coordination with New Number: 828.389.7305 t the library’s next book sale. 159 Hwy 64 W (Next to UCB in Moore Ins. Building) Hayesville, NC -JDFOTFtXXXIFBMUIZTNJMFTCZESCDPN The framed one-of-a-kind oil painting is 13-1/2” x 13-1/2” Remembering Reece: and would look fabulous add- Reece Society Celebrates Harvest with “Maters & Music Festival” By Bill Strickland Byron Herbert Reece Society Board Member While “Maters and Mu- sic” has been an annual event sponsored by the Byron Her- Repair & Diagnostics bert Reece Society for over a dozen years, it was only in Data Recovery 2024 that I attended this com- munity event which celebrates the life of one of the great Custom PCs writers of the Appalachian Mountains. As a newcomer, let me Tune-Ups, Etc. encourage those of you who are not yet acquainted with Reece to join us at the Byron Herbert Reece Farm and Heri- -XVWLQ7HUU Jim Wood tage Center on Saturday, Au- gust 15th, for a day which will to include some of the old amount of $25. Family mem- send you home with memories Western favorites like “Cattle berships are available for $45 of great music and fellowship Call,” “Cool Water,” and many annual dues. There will be an with others from Union Coun- others. information table for those in- ty and beyond. Following the Cow- terested in joining. Parking is available as hands’ entertainment, Dean There will also be Byron you enter the main gate of the Parker and Davy Henderson Herbert Reece T-shirts avail- farm. A short walk from the of the popular local band True able as well as the novels and parking lot, across the walk- Grit will please the crowd with books of poetry that he pub- ing bridge over beautiful Wolf their country, bluegrass, and lished. There is no admission Creek, will bring you to the folk music. charge for this event which open-air pavilion. Parking Justin Terry, Knoxville- begins at 10 a.m. and will end is also available beside the based musician, songwriter around 2:30 p.m. Pavilion. There is plenty of and singer who is featured in Donations made to the comfortable seating available concerts across the country, Reece Society are much ap- around tables so that those will thrill the audience with his preciated as this event is our juicy tomato sandwiches can amazing bass voice perform- primary source of income KING be corralled before the tomato ing country, pop, folk and gos- from which we present a local juice starts its journey away pel music. Justin will perform Scholarship to deserving stu- from the hands to the elbows! during the noon hour. dents who attend Young Harris This year’s annual “Ma- Jim Wood brings de- College. ters & Music Festival” features cades of songwriting and per- Those of us who are a four musical performances formance to our event. He will part of the Reece Society look and an informal atmosphere be accompanied by his talent- forward to this day for remem- that allows for coming and ed daughter, Jacey Wood, and bering Reece in a moment of WHERE WE TREAT YOU LIKE ROYALTY going as time permits. A free some of his humorous tales sharing and celebration with lunch of tomato sandwiches and personally written gems the community. We hope you and drinks will be served be- will close out the event around and your family can join us for ginning around 11:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. These four talented the family-friendly event! until 1 p.m., or as long as the groups will be providing toe ***The Purpose and tomatoes last. tapping and hand clapping Mission of the Byron Herbert John Cochran and the music for our enjoyment. Reece Society is to Preserve, Cowhands, a local and popu- This event being offered Promote and Perpetuate the lar Western music group, will to the community is sponsored Dual Legacy of Appalachian open the entertainment with by the Byron Herbert Reece Agriculture and Literature a performance of Western Society. New members are of Byron Herbert Reece, Jer- tunes inspired by Roy Rogers welcome to join the society. ri Duncan Gill Strickland, and The Sons of the Pioneers, There is a nominal annual dues Chair. Nurse Honor Guard ...from Page 1A releases the nurse from their EHWZHHQÀYHDQGVHYHQPLQXWHV lamp to the family. A white earthly nursing duties while During a tribute, members rose is placed on the casket honoring the legacy they leave may stand vigil beside the or beside the urn as a symbol behind. casket during visitation or be of the nurse’s dedication and The Georgia Highlands present during the service. In commitment to the profession. Nurse Honor Guard is the keeping with nursing tradition, For nurses interested in 22nd chapter in Georgia and participants wear a traditional joining the Georgia Highlands will serve families in Union, white uniform with a navy- Nurse Honor Guard, or for Towns, and Rabun counties. blue cape lined in red and a those seeking more information The chapter was co-founded nursing cap. about the organization and its by Karen Dinsmore, MN, RN, T h e c e r e m o n y services, please contact Karen and Terri Worthey, PhD, RN, includes the recitation of Dinsmore at 404-844-8369. both residents of Blairsville the “Nightingale Tribute,” a “Honoring those who who share a passion for nursing “Final Call to Duty,” and the spent their lives caring for with over 75 years’ experience presentation of a Nightingale others.” combined. Recognizing a need for this meaningful service in the North Georgia mountains, 6KRUW7HUP5HQWDOV those cases. D i n s m o r e a n d Wo r t h e y ...from Page 1A established the chapter to “I feel like my position ensure that local nurses receive forthcoming Union County Fire needs to be more neutral, and I the recognition and respect Department short-term rental don’t need to have the authority they have earned through ÀUH VDIHW SROLF UDWKHU WKDQ to be able to vote on something years of caring for others. listing specific requirements and write a citation,” Kimsey Their mission is to preserve in the ordinance. Kimsey said said. the traditions of nursing, doing this will make it easier If that change is approved, honor a life of service, and IRU WKH FRXQW WR XSGDWH ÀUH she said the board would ensure that no nurse leaves this safety policies in the future add another voting member world without the dignity and without having to amend the to replace the enforcement gratitude they deserve. ordinance each time. RIÀFHU·VYRWLQJSRVLWLRQ The Nurse Honor Guard The proposed revisions “(The board is) very provides services for all licensed would still require property invested in what they do,” she nurses, including Registered owners to install accessible said. “They’re fully dedicated, Nurses (RNs), Licensed ÀUH H[WLQJXLVKHUV DQG FDUERQ so it feels great to know that Practical Nurses (LPNs), monoxide detectors on every they’ve got my back, and Certified Nurse Midwives level of a rental property, as well they’ve got the community’s (CNMs), Nurse Practitioners as smoke alarms throughout the back as well.” (NPs), Certified Registered home. Before the proposed Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), A s e c o n d p r o p o s e d ordinance revisions can take Call our sales team at 800.388.2897 and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs). These tributes are change would remove the short- effect, they will be reviewed WHUPUHQWDOHQIRUFHPHQWRIÀFHU by County Attorney William performed by volunteer nurses as a voting member of the board. Mercer and discussed with & visit kingfordsales.com to learn more and are provided at no cost to families. Kimsey, who currently holds Sole Commissioner Harold that position, said the change Collins. The changes will then Honor Guard services would allow her to remain go through a first reading, can be incorporated into secretary of the board while during which the public can 2450 us hwy 64, murphy, NC 28906 traditional funeral or memorial ceremonies and typically last UHPRYLQJDSRWHQWLDOFRQÁLFWRI comment, followed by a second interest caused by her duties to and final reading for formal both issue citations and vote on adoption at a county meeting.

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3A American Legion Auxiliary Unit 121: A Summer of Service with our Children & Youth ed K. Butle program while raising funds lfr and increasing awareness of A HOROLOGIST IV r the important work Isaiah 117 NAWC#164871 House provides. In August, the Auxiliary supported Union County High Watch Repair /Custom Clock Making School by volunteering at the Repair, Restoration concession stand during a Ship’s Clocks & Barometers At the Department of football scrimmage. Chronometers Georgia Convention in June, Wrapping up August, Unit 121 was honored with our ALA Yard Sale will be held Phone or Text to: 15 awards, including eight on Saturday, August 22, from (401) 489-5431 / Young Harris, GA first-place honors for excel- 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leon lence in Americanism, Con- Davenport Veterans Building. stitution & Bylaws, History Join us for great deals on fur- Book, Leadership, Member- niture, household items, home ship, Public Relations, Ser- décor, and more. All proceeds vice, and Veterans Affairs & ZLOO EHQHÀW RXU KROLGD IXQG Rehabilitation. providing Christmas gifts for  ))  *. In July, newly elect- veterans at Stonehenge Senior HG RIÀFHUV ZHUH LQVWDOOHG  Living, Union County Nurs- Nancy Kunz, President; Bar- ing Home, and our homeless bara Howard, Vice President; veterans. Tiffney Flowers, Secretary; The American Legion Lisa Pace, Treasurer; Gayle Auxiliary meets on the third England Triplett, Sergeant-at- Tuesday of each month at 6:30  $"#/ղ Arms and Chaplain; and Mar- p.m. at the Leon Davenport sha Lodes, Parliamentarian. Veterans Building. Meetings Also in July, Unit 121 are open to the public, and we participated in a Lemonade welcome anyone interested 6WDQG IXQGUDLVHU EHQHÀWLQJ in supporting our veterans to Isaiah 117 House. It was a join us. For more information, wonderful opportunity to sup- contact Nancy Kunz at 404port an organization that aligns 801-0545. U.S. Air Force Veteran and Wife seek community ֢ԼԵԻ֣ԾԼԵևԷԵԻԵ support in America’s Favorite Couple Competition Blairsville couple Nor- tion’s $20,000 grand prize, the ԶԻի ''/ $ 2 .. լ ԸԵԺԹԻ berto and Elizabeth Allen hope Allens hope to use the money to advance in the competition to help relatives in Cuba who and use the $20,000 prize to are living without electricity help family in Cuba facing se- and facing severe food scarvere hardship. city. U.S. Air Force veteran “Every free daily vote Norberto Allen and his wife, and every share gives us a bet- Elizabeth Allen, are asking ter chance of making a meanfor community support as they ingful difference in the lives Authorized Dealer compete in the 2026 America’s of our loved ones,” Elizabeth Favorite Couple competition. said. “Above all, it reminds Voting for America’s them that we haven’t forgotten Favorite Couple competition them.” closes Thursday, September The couple met online 10, 2026. while Elizabeth was caring for If they win the competi- her mother during a battle with cancer. What began as conver- $ CASH 4 $ sation and friendship grew through laughter, prayer, en- $ $ $ GOLD $ couragement and Norberto’s Serving the Area Since 1983 $ $ steady support during one of $ Jewelry $ WKH PRVW GLIÀFXOW SHULRGV RI 1RUEHUWRDQG(OL]DEHWK$OOHQ $ $ $ $ SILVER $ $ Elizabeth’s life. porting their family and shar- Norberto and Elizabeth ing their journey together. Couple offers the winning pair a $20,000 prize, a feature in Hours: 9-5 Closed Wed. & Sun. Jewelry describe their relationship as They believe this time Variety and a triple date with $ $ $ Labosco’s at the $ $ $ a story of faith, perseverance together will create new op- and mutual support. Today, portunities for meaningful celebrity couples. Supporters may cast one 2711 Blairsville Hwy., Murphy NC. 28906 $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ that same bond is guiding connection, growth and per- free vote each day for Nor- 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ 706-745-0097 $ $ them into this new chapter as sonal development, beginning Norberto enters retirement, with this worthy cause. berto and Elizabeth at: https:// americasfavcouple.org/2026/ 828.837.8611 CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! with a continued focus on sup- A m e r i c a ’s F a v o r i t e norberto-and-elizabeth LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Michelin Specializing In: Let’s Talk Trash Alignment • Computer Balancing BFG Brakes • Auto Repair Uniroyal Industrial Foam Fill Oil Changes Thomas Tire, Inc. Weekly Pickup Auto & Big Truck Service Check us tonysgarbage.com out on Oscar Thomas - Owner 76 Shoe Factory Road Licensed • Insured • Bonded (706) 745-0264 Blairsville, Georgia 30512 706-897-6066 SHAWN’S UNDER PRESSURE OF BLAIRSVILLE,GA LLC HOME FURNISHINGS 706 - 352 - 7266 - est. 2003 - “From the Front Porch to the NEW “RETRACTABLE SCREEN DOOR” INSTALLATION Back Door We’ve Got You Covered!” 568 Blue Ridge St. • Blairsville, GA WINDOW CLEANING PRESSURE CLEANING 706-835-1209 SCREENS 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 HOMES, GARAGES, kitchen countertops! DECKS, BASEMENTS www.sesprayfoam.com 411 Plott Town Rd., Young Harris, GA Must present this ad at time of purchase LICENSED INSURED FORESTRY MULCHING Tyler Silverson 706-851-3524 391 BLUE RIDGE HWY ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED PLACE YOUR AD HERE! Advertise with other Licensed Insured Local Business here in Now offering new septic system installs the Blairsville area! Lot Clearing, Gravel Driveways, House Sites, Contact Sky Long Arm Mowing, Retaining Walls, Underbrushing, Erosion Control, Water Management 706-745-6343 or 706-897-4065 ngnews@nganews.com

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Page 4A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 Opinions p Everybody has one... SPLOST Builder or Destroyer From Your Commissioner Recently, I was asked about SPLOST (Special Purpose Lo- David Bahnsen gave the commencement address at his One of the things I enjoy most about serving as your County FDO 2SWLRQ 6DOHV 7D[  DQG KRZ WKDW LPSDFWV WKH ÀUH GHSDUWPHQW daughter’s high school graduation. Late in the speech his emo- Commissioner is sharing the stories that make Union County such emergency management, and 911 center. After explaining what the tions began to rise, betraying the deep conviction behind his a special place. One of those is Canal Lake. 63/267VDOHVWD[LVZKHUHLWFRPHVIURPWKHVSHFLÀFXVHV carefully chosen words. I realize that many of the people enjoying the lake have no the regulations and accountability, how it is shared with locals and Bahnsen is a noted author, economist, and portfolio LGHDKRZ&DQDO/DNHJRWLWVQDPHRUZKWKLVDUHDLVVRVLJQLÀFDQW visitors, and, most importantly, the powerful impact it has on pub- manager. He provides financial commentary on cable news to our county’s history. Around 1840, Johnson P. Wellborn owned lic safety and the county as a whole, shows. He is a committed Chris- the land surrounding what is now the these people were understanding and Fire Dept. tian, and his content reflects that All Things Canal Lake Boat Ramp. As the story Union supportive. It is truly amazing what from Union worldview. His speech decried the New has been passed down through the County a penny can do. Some people were County years, Mr. Wellborn wanted to build Commissioner Fire Chief extreme negativity pervasive in surprised to learn that we have had a culture. Then he said, “Graduates, a grist mill powered by the waters of SPLOST in Union County for almost David for my entire life, I’ve encountered Wayne the Nottely River. To make that hap- Harold 30 years and, at the time of this col- Dyer two types of people: those who Fowler pen, workers began digging a canal Collins umn, there were only three counties build and those who destroy. God by hand with picks and shovels to in Georgia that didn’t have SPLOST, https://dor.georgia.gov/sales- made you to be a builder. When we fall outside of God’s will divert enough water to turn the mill wheel. Before long, they entax-rates-general. for our lives, outside of our created design, we inevitably be- FRXQWHUHG VROLG EHGURFN 7KH FDQDO ZDV QHYHU ÀQLVKHG EXW WKH I cannot speak about all SPLOST projects, but I can explain come a destroyer. You will not believe the misery found in name stuck. From that point on, local residents simply referred to the projects that have affected our departments. The Emergency destroying things.” With emotion he added, “But you will not the area as “Canal.” 0DQDJHPHQW$JHQF (0$  KDV EHQHÀWHG IURP 63/267 IXQGV believe the joy that exists in building things. Choose wisely!” In 1925, Arthur McAfee saw the beauty of the Nottely Rivby the purchasing of rescue equipment and by the building of the The Bible reveals that God invites us into His creative er and the old canal and decided it was the perfect place to build a Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which was part of the up- activity. We are made in God’s image with a charge to be fruit- summer retreat. He called it Canal Camp, and it quickly became JUDGHWRWKHÀUHGHSDUWPHQWKHDGTXDUWHUVVWDWLRQLQ7KH(2& ful and multiply, and fill the earth (Gen. 1:26-27). That gives much more than just a campground—it sounds like it became is the coordinating center for disasters and other major emergencies us a role in His grand plan for humanity – building a commu- a gathering place for locals. They say there were 22 cottages, a that affect Union County. Prior to this, Union County EMA and nity of people who know Him. God “gave us the ministry of camping area, a swimming pool, miniature golf, tennis courts, a (2&ZDVRSHUDWLQJRXWRIDVPDOORIÀFH reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the general store, and a dance pavilion where friends and neighbors 7KH ÀUH GHSDUWPHQW KDV VHHQ WKH ODUJHVW EHQHÀW IURP world to Himself … We are ambassadors for Christ” (2 Cor. gathered on warm summer evenings. There was even a swinging SPLOST. The new headquarters station (Station 1) as mentioned 5:18-20). bridge connecting the two peninsulas. above is one example. Other volunteer and career stations through- God’s earthly purpose for Christians in building fami- Then came one of the biggest changes our county has ever out the county have been built with SPLOST funding. The UCFD lies, relationships, businesses, institutions, and organizations experienced. In the early 1940s, the Tennessee Valley Authority Training Facility as well. These new stations and the Training Fa- is to reconcile people to their Creator. Influencing the culture began construction of Nottely Dam. As TVA acquired land for cility increase our capabilities and reduce the ISO Rating (Insur- contributes to that purpose. In “Restoring All Things” (2015), what would become Lake Nottely, much of the original Canal DQFH 6HUYLFHV 2IÀFH  RI 8QLRQ &RXQW ZKLFK UHGXFHV LQVXUDQFH Smith and Stonestreet propose some questions to help you and &DPSSURSHUW³DQGWKHROGXQÀQLVKHGFDQDOLWVHOI³ZRXOGHYHQpremiums for home and business owners. your church find your place in this building enterprise. tually be covered by water. Arthur McAfee moved all 22 cottages 7KH63/267IXQGLQJDOVRKDVSXUFKDVHGÀUHDSSDUDWXVUHV- Here are their four culture-building questions: What is WRKLJKHUJURXQGEHIRUHWKHUHVHUYRLUÀOOHG2QFHWKHZDWHUVFRYcue vehicles, the ladder apparatus, and support vehicles that enable good that I can promote, protect, and celebrate? What is miss- ered the original campground, he renamed the resort Canal Lake the department to respond safely and effectively. Personal Protec- ing that I can creatively contribute? What is evil that I can Camp, preserving both the history of the old canal and the area’s tive Equipment (PPE) has also been purchased with SPLOST fund- stop? What is broken that I can restore? To that list I would new identity along Lake Nottely. ing, including turnout gear and the recent replacement of 120 Self- add, what are the deceptions that I can disinfect with truth? Mr. McAfee continued operating Canal Lake Camp until &RQWDLQHG%UHDWKLQJ$SSDUDWXV7KLV33(SURWHFWVRXUÀUHÀJKWHUV Bahnsen closed his speech saying, “I want for you a life his passing in 1956, but in 1969, his sons, Jim and Lewis McAfee, DQGEHWWHUHTXLSVWKHPWRÀJKWÀUHDQGVDYHOLYHV built a modern campground with 50 campsites, bathhouses, laun- filled with extraordinary peace and joy.” Such is the life of a See Dyer, page 5A faithful builder. See Collins, page 5A Toxic Tendencies Chamber 2026 Toxic individuals have certain personal- It’s that time of year! School is back in ity tendencies, such as: session, and I want to give a big shoutout to all 1. Judgmental—The toxic person doesn’t our teachers, staff, and administrators for their have an interest in your viewpoints. They be- hard work and dedication. We are fortunate to lieve their opinions are gospel. 2. Controlling— have an award-winning school system in our The toxic person wants to have control over community. what you think, Our schools feel, and do. They Successful continue to grow, Blairsville - Union don’t take NO for Mental both in student en- Health County an answer. Their rollment and in the Chamber goal is to change Dr. James number of gradu- President you to their way of Ray Ashurst ates each year. thinking. They ig- PH.D. Union County Steve Rowe nore your personal Schools consistentboundaries. 3. Manipulative—They are narcis- ly receive recognition for their innovative apsistic in nature. It is their way to have control proach to education, including the integration of and to get their own personal needs met by their STEM opportunities into Career, Technical, and victim. 4. Unapologetic—The word “Sorry” is Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs, maknot in their vocabulary. They could care less ing our students to be better prepared. about your feelings and thoughts. They are Did you know that, through dual enrollunable to recognize their mistakes. 5. Argu- ment partnerships with North Georgia Technimentative—They are always correct and right. cal College, the University of North Georgia, 7KHORYHWRTXDUUHODQGWRFUHDWHFRQÁLFWV and Young Harris College, many students can Dishonest—The victim never knows when the complete core college courses before graduattoxic person is being truthful or lying. The toxic ing from high school? This allows them to save See Ashurst, page 5A See Chamber, page 5A Guardian of Our Forests Lord Have Mercy! Biscuits in a Well Webworms Smokey Bear is 82 Years Old Lord Have Mercy! “Kyrie Eleison” in My Grandparents told me the following Have you seen cobwebs at the ends of Greek, still recited in Greek sometimes to- story years ago. However, I never knew the per- branches on your trees? They can be unsightly Smokey Bear turns 82 years old on Au- day. We say it at the beginning of the mass sons involved or when it occurred. So, recently and leave brown patches where the webs are. JXVW   +H ÀUVW DSSHDUHG RQ$XJXVW  during the penitential rite. The priest will I was on a Facebook page called “The Forgot- Those are fall webworms. They are quite com- 1944, created by the U.S. Forest Service and say, “Let us acknowledge our sins.” And ten of Alabama” and ran across the story. Joanne mon so let’s talk about these little guys that are WKH$G&RXQFLOWRSURPRWHZLOGÀUHSUHYHQWLRQ then there is silence so we can all bow our Walden remembered the following events from spreading from tree to tree. Parks, forests, and heads and do just 1956 in Franklin We have two libraries across the RC&D that. And then Catholic County, Alabama. Around types of caterpilcountry host birth- Executive the words of the Conversations “ L e a v i n g The Farm lars that make webs day celebrations Director priest, repeated by Highway 81 near in trees in North Watching and educational us, after each peti- By Angela Ridley Trapptown and the Georgia. Eastern and Working events during the Frank tion, “Lord Have Union Hill com- Mickey tent caterpillars will Jacob second week of Riley St. Francis of Assisi munities near Phil Cummings make webs in the Williams Mercy! Christ August. Have Mercy! Lord Campbell by turn- spring. Fall web- Created in 1944, the Smokey Bear Wild- Have Mercy!” It’s powerful. ing down a rural dirt road you come to the Coon worms will make webs in the late summer or ÀUH3UHYHQWLRQFDPSDLJQLVWKHORQJHVWUXQQLQJ Why use this phrase? It’s from Psalm 40 Cummings Farm and home-place. I was spend- fall, hence their very original name. Webworms public service advertising campaign in U.S. his- and 51. An ancient prayer for God to forgive ing the summer with the WeHunt Family of Ma- will have one to four generations each year. tory, educating generations of Americans about us and show mercy. Why the three repetitions? bel, Hollis and their only son Jimmy. This was There are many different tree species that they WKHLUUROHLQSUHYHQWLQJZLOGÀUHV7KHJXDUGLDQ That’s from Matthew 20, when Jesus and the my home away from home and as a girl of only 6 will use to make their nest. They prefer to make of our forest dressed in a ranger’s hat, belted disciples were leaving Jericho. Two blind years I loved these people and their community. their nests on deciduous trees over evergreens. blue jeans, and carrying a shovel, has been the men sat on the road and cried out when Je- “Early one morning, we took a ride over to Webworms grow into a moth that has a UHFRJQL]HG ZLOGÀUH SUHYHQWLRQ VPERO VLQFH sus walked by, “Lord have mercy on us!” The visit Aunt Glenna and Uncle Coon. These folks one-and-a-half-inch wingspan. The wings are 1944. crowd shushed them, but they cried out again, were my folks and your folks also if you lived in white and sometimes have black spots on them. To understand how Smokey Bear be- “Lord have mercy on us!” And Jesus stopped this community or attended the Union Hill Con- The female moths will lay egg masses of up to FDPH DVVRFLDWHG ZLWK ZLOGÀUH SUHYHQWLRQ ZH gregational Methodist Church. Uncle Coon and six hundred eggs. The egg masses are covered and asked them what they wanted from him. must go back to World War II. On December his family attended the church as well as many in hairs, which protects them from predators. They replied, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” people of the small community. Generations of When the caterpillars emerge from the eggs, 7, 1941, Japanese planes attacked Pearl Harbor. The following spring, in 1942, a Japanese Then Jesus restored their sight. He opened Cummings family members have attended the they begin constructing nests on the ends of submarine surfaced near the coast of Southern their eyes, and they followed him. little church. As a matter of fact, Coon’s father, tree branches. The webworms will begin eat- &DOLIRUQLD DQG ÀUHG D VDOYR RI VKHOOV WKDW H[- Just as Jesus came to those blind men, Lon, sawed the timber into lumber to build the ing the new growth at the end of the branch. SORGHGRQDQRLOÀHOGQHDU6DQWD%DUEDUDYHU He has come to us. We think we go to Him, little church. Anyway, generations of Cummings The webs that they construct protect them from close to the Los Padres National Forest. Amer- dressed in our Sunday best and hurrying so we children were raised up around the church and predators and some insecticides. As the weather icans throughout the country were shocked don’t arrive late and walk in behind the priest, each time I visited the WeHunts, we attended the gets cooler, the caterpillars will burrow into by the news the war had now been brought but the truth is that He comes to us. And, so church along with many other children of the the ground where they will pupate, the cocoon directly to the American mainland. There was we call out to him, “Lord, have mercy on us!” community. stage, and emerge as moths when the weather also fear that enemy incendiary shells explod- Jesus is present in the beauty of the Mass, “I vividly remember this visit with Aunt warms up again. LQJLQWKHWLPEHUVWDQGVDORQJWKH3DFLÀF&RDVW and we want to see him. Thus, we have to ac- Glenna and Uncle Coon even though I was only Webworms can heavily infest some trees. could easily set off numerous raging forest knowledge our sins. 6 years old. You see I knew that Aunt Glenna If a tree is heavily infested the webworms can ÀUHVLQDGGLWLRQWRWKRVHDOUHDGEHLQJFDXVHG St. Augustine said it well all the way kept a platter of her famous biscuits tucked away completely defoliate the tree. Complete defoby people. EDFNLQWKHÀIWKFHQWXU ´/HWXVORRNIRUWKH in the warmer drawer of her wood burning stove liation is not a common occurrence, but it is a Protection of these forests from uncon- blind person inside. The eyes of the mind are that stood in her kitchen. I also knew that I would possibility. Completely defoliating a tree leaves WUROOHGÀUHEHFDPHDPDWWHURIQDWLRQDOLPSRU- closed; Jesus passes by, to get us to cry out…” be treated to one of these home-made biscuits the tree bare and less attractive. However, detance, and a new idea was born. If people could Who are the ones who cry out to Christ, to along with some home-made blackberry jelly ciduous trees can manage losing their leaves, be urged to be more careful, perhaps some of have their inner blindness dispelled? Unfor- and fresh churned butter. because they will grow new ones back the next WKHÀUHVFRXOGEHSUHYHQWHG)RUHVWÀUHVFDXVHG tunately, it’s not all of us sitting next to each “As I walked through the door of the year. by people were nothing new. For many years, other on the pew each week. Only some of us Cummings home I was hugged, squeezed and In most situations, it is not necessary to WKHQDWLRQKDGNQRZQWKDWIRUHVWÀUHVSUHVHQW- cry out with humility in recognition of how kissed repeatedly as I entered the home. Uncle remove the webworms from trees. The damage ed a serious threat. In 1939, a poster showing much we sin. Many voice the words, but Jesus &RRQ DQG KLV ERV ZHUH ÀQLVKLQJ WKHLU FKRUHV that they do is aesthetic. If there are some webs a forest ranger who looked like Uncle Sam hears the heart. Like the despised tax collec- at the barn not too far from their white framed on lower branches that are easy to prune, then SRLQWLQJ WR D UDJLQJ IRUHVW ÀUH VWDWHG ´<RXU tor in Luke 18 who can’t even lift his eyes to- house. Aunt Mabel and Aunt Glenna were knee physical removal of the branches is an option. If Forest-Your Fault-Your Loss.” wards heaven. Instead, he stands at a distance deep in their visit when I suddenly remembered the branches are out of reach, try to use a long Statistics showed that nine out of ten of and beats his chest and cries out, “Lord, Have that I needed my treat. Aunt Glenna cut a bis- pole or rake to knock the webs out of the tree. WKH ÀUHV ZHUH SHUVRQFDXVHG DQG WKXV SUH- mercy on me, a sinner!” The Pharisee, on the cuit and smeared it with butter and jelly. It was a A pressure washer is also an option to remove ventable. With this in mind, in 1942 the For- other hand, remains blind. Never acknowledg- warm day so I walked out the back door into the webs from hard-to-reach places. Opening webest Service organized the Cooperative Forest ing his sin, because he thinks of himself as yard. I looked up into the blue sky and watched worm nests will expose them to the elements Fire Prevention Program with the help of the righteous. Dear Lord, help us to recognize our WKHELJSXIIFORXGVÁRDWE,VRRQIRXQGPVHOI and enable predators such as birds, assassin Wartime Advertising Council. The Wartime sins and be humble enough to bow our heads leaning against the Cummings well and it caught bugs, and parasitic wasps to get inside and con- Advertising Council was composed of people and cry out. Kyrie Eleison, Christe Eleison, my attention. trol the webworms too. experienced in the business of advertising who Kyrie Eleison! “I bit into the delicious biscuit and It is possible to use insecticides to condonated their talent to the U.S. Government to ***Adapted from Dr. Brant Pitre, The watched the water in the well. I had watched trol webworms, but I usually do not recommend See Riley, page 5A Mass Explained 2024 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

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5A Cummings...continued from Page 4A Riley...continued from Page 4A 38 BACKYARD LANE, HWY. 515, numerous times as Uncle Coon Eventually, the visit to get important messages to the The little cub had been caught BLAIRSVILLE NEXT TO THE BOWLING ALLEY WWW.BLAIRSVILLECINEMA.COM drew water from that well. The water was cold and clear. It had $XQW *OHQQD·V KRXVH ZDV ÀQ- ished and after several hugs, people. Posters and slogans were created through the War- LQWKHSDWKRIWKHÀUH+HKDG taken refuge in a tree that was CINEMA 706-745-1000 Movies and/or show times are subject to change a wonderful taste derived from the minerals of the stone around squeezes and kisses Aunt Ma- bel and I made our way back time Advertising Council, in- cluding “Forest Fires Aid the now nothing but a charred, smoking snag. His climb had FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 - THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 the walls of the well. This well home. Somehow my 6-year- Enemy,” and “Our Careless- saved his life but left his paws THE RIVALS OF AMZIAH KING R water was a lifeline to the fam- old brain left the well behind ness, Their Secret Weapon.” and hind legs badly burned. THURSDAY, AUGUST 13TH: 11:00, 1:40, 4:00, 7:10 Starring FRIDAY & SATURDAY: 11:00, 1:00, 3:50, 6:50 Matthew McConaughey ily. Uncle Coon’s sons can re- and never realized that I had By using catchy phras- 7KH ÀUHÀJKWHUV UHPRYHG WKH SUNDAY - THURSDAY: 11:00, 1:00, 3:50, 6:40 & Kurt Russell member walking to the spring spoiled the well water of the es, colorful posters, and other little bear cub from the burned located 1/4 mile away to fetch people I loved. At least un- ÀUH SUHYHQWLRQ PHVVDJHV WKH tree, and a rancher, who had PAW PATROL: THE DINO MOVIE PG water before the well was dug. til later that afternoon. But it CFFP Program encouraged EHHQ KHOSLQJ WKH ÀUHÀJKWHUV THURSDAY, AUGUST 13TH: 2:00, 4:20, 6:40 FRIDAY & SATURDAY: 11:00, 1:40, 4:40, 6:50 The remembrance of fetching all came back to my memory people to prevent accidental agreed to take the cub home. SUNDAY - THURSDAY: 11:00, 1:40, 4:40, 6:40 water from a distance made when I watched Uncle Coon ÀUHV DQG KHOS ZLWK WKH :DU The cub needed veterinary the family regard the water of as he came up the driveway Walt Disney’s motion picture DLGDQGZDVÁRZQWR6DQWD)H SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY PG13 THURSDAY, AUGUST 13TH: 11:00, 1:30, 4:20, 6:50 the well as more precious than to Aunt Mabel’s house. It oc- “Bambi” was produced in where the burns were treated FRIDAY & SATURDAY: 11:00, 1:50, 3:40, 7:00 gold or silver. curred to me that Uncle Coon 1944, and Disney authorized and bandaged. SUNDAY - THURSDAY: 11:00, 1:50, 3:40, 6:50 “As I stared down into was there to take care of busi- the CFFP Program to use his The news about the little the depths, I picked up a pebble ness and not for a casual visit. creation on a poster. The Bam- bear spread swiftly throughand dropped it into the water. I noticed that Uncle Coon had bi poster was a success and out New Mexico. Soon the I was intrigued by the sound a sadness on his face that usu- proved that using an animal United Press and Associated it made upon hitting the water ally shown a pleasant kindness. DV D ÀUH SUHYHQWLRQ VPERO Press picked up the story and and I soon ran out of pebbles. After a conversation between would work. The Forest Ser- broadcast it nationwide. The So, before I knew what was Uncle Coon and Aunt Mabel YLFHQHHGHGWRÀQGDQDQLPDO State Game Warden wrote an happening, I began dropping I was asked about the biscuits that would belong exclusively RIÀFLDO OHWWHU WR WKH &KLHI RI pieces of my biscuit into the and the well. I explained what to the CFFP Program. It was the Forest Service, offering water. Soon I found myself in had happened and Aunt Mabel ÀQDOO GHFLGHG WKDW WKH 1D- to present the cub to the agenthe kitchen and another biscuit explained how I had contami- WLRQ·V ÀUH SUHYHQWLRQ VPERO cy with the understanding was placed in my tiny hand. nated the well as I received a should be a bear. On August that the small bear would be So, back to the well I went and much-needed spanking.  WKHQHZÀUHSUHYHQ- dedicated to a publicity prolistened to the soft plunk of a “The spanking was the tion symbol was agreed upon JUDP IRU ÀUH SUHYHQWLRQ DQG biscuit hitting the well water. I ÀUVW WLPH DQRQH RWKHU WKDQ by the Forest Service and the wildlife conservation. The made four trips to the kitchen my mother ever touched me. Wartime Advertising Council. go-ahead was given to send of Glenna and I enjoyed listen- It hurt my feelings, my pride 7KH ÀUVW SRVWHU RI the bear cub to Washington, ing to the sounds of 4 biscuits and my rear end. But it taught Smokey Bear showed a bear D.C. Once there, he found a hitting the well water. I guess me to respect others’ property. pouring a bucket of water on a home at the National Zoo and I never realized the mess I was I have never wanted to throw FDPSÀUH 6PRNH %HDU VRRQ became the living symbol of making of the one-time pure as much as a kiss into anyone’s became extremely popular, Smokey Bear. well water. well again.” and his image began appear- Smokey died in 1976 LQJRQÀUHSUHYHQWLRQPDWHUL- Smokey’s new slogan is Dyer...continued from Page 4A als. “Only YOU Can Prevent )RUHVW)LUHVµZDVÀUVWXVHGDV “Only you can prevent Wild- ÀUHVµ 6PRNH GLG WRR JRRG The latest SPLOST many to list in this column. a slogan in 1947. One spring of a job for years by encourfunded project is the new 911 There is little doubt that day in 1950 in the Capitan DJLQJHYHUÀUHWREHSXWRXW center. The current 911 center SPLOST funding has im- Mountains of New Mexico, which has led to the high fuel is in a run down, old building proved and enhanced the DQREVHUYHULQRQHRIWKHÀUH loads we have in our forests approximately 65 years old. public safety of this county. towers spotted smoke and today. For more information The new center is larger, more SPLOST can be con- called the location into the check out: Smokeybear.com. secure, and built to house the fusing, especially in a world nearest Ranger Station. The 911 services for many years. of misinformation. The best ÀUVWFUHZWRDUULYHGLVFRYHUHG SPLOST funding also pur- practice is to do your own re- DPDMRUÀUHEHLQJVZHSWDORQJ chased the high tech equip- search and educate yourself; by strong winds. Word spread ment and software that is ask questions and get the facts rapidly and more crews were required to provide the most from reliable sources. For called to help. Forest rangers, up-to-date 911 communication more information on Union Army soldiers, New Mexico services. County SPLOST, visit www. State Game and Fish Depart- These are just a few unioncountysplost.org. ment employees and civilian SPLOST projects that af- Union County Fire De- volunteers worked together to IHFW WKH (0$ ÀUH DQG  partment ~Our Family Pro- FRQWUROWKHUDJLQJÀUH departments. There are too tecting Your Family~ During one of the lulls LQ WKH ÀUHÀJKWLQJ WKHUH ZDV a report of a lonely cub seen Chamber...continued from Page 4A ZDQGHULQJ QHDU WKH ÀUH OLQH thousands of dollars on tuition local employers with a highly while entering the workforce or continuing their education skilled workforce. A special thank you to Collins... ahead of schedule. our teachers, administrators, continued from Page 4A Union County is also Board of Education, parents, dry facilities, picnic tables, recognized for preparing stu- volunteers, and everyone who grills, and electrical hookups. dents with valuable career- invests in the success of our Canal Lake Campgrounds ofready skills. Students interest- students. Your commitment is ÀFLDOO RSHQHG LQ   DQG ed in healthcare can graduate shaping the future of our com- has welcomed generations of ZLWK WKHLU &HUWLÀHG 1XUVLQJ munity. campers ever since. $VVLVWDQW &1$  FHUWLÀFDWLRQ Be sure to check the At Lake Nottely, many future educators can complete Chamber calendar for up- QHYHU UHDOL]H WKH·UH ÁRDWLQJ their Georgia Assessments for coming Chamber events and over a place that once held a WKH &HUWLÀFDWLRQ RI (GXFDWRUV community activities happen- hand-dug canal, a bustling fam- (GACE) requirements, and ing throughout the area. Your ily resort, a swinging bridge, equipment operators can earn participation and support help and countless memories. 26+$FHUWLÀFDWLRQVEHIRUHHQ- strengthen our local business- In Union County, our tering the workforce. These op- es, organizations, and nonprof- history isn’t locked away in portunities save students time its—and continue making Life museums—it lives all around and money while providing Better in Blairsville! us. It’s found in the names of our roads and communi- Williams... continued from Page 4A ties, in the stories our parents and grandparents told us, and THE NEW ESPLOST VII them because webworms ticide inside the web. As al- sometimes even beneath the rarely cause severe damage ways, read the label before ap- waters of Lake Nottely. to the tree. If you decide to plying a pesticide so that you The next time you’re apply an insecticide one con- know how to properly handle launching your boat or swim- REFERENDUM taining Bacillus thuringiensis and apply the pesticide. ming at Canal Lake, take a mo- (Bt) or spinosad will kill the Some years we have ment to think about the genera- ZHEZRUPV DQG QRW EHQHÀFLDO more webworms than oth- tions who came before us. It’s a insects that are also nearby. ers. From the look of things, reminder that while our county Broad-spectrum insecticides I think we have more this may continue to grow, our hislike pyrethroids, which are year than we have had for a tory will always be part of who NOTICE OF REFERENDUM TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS any insecticide with an active while. If you have questions we are. ingredient ending with –thrin, about webworms, contact your OF UNION COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT, GEORGIA will kill any insects it meets. FRXQW ([WHQVLRQ 2IÀFH RU The ballots to be used at such referendum shall have written or printed thereon substantially the You will have to open the nest ÀUVWVRWKDWRXJHWWKHLQVHF- email me at Jacob.Williams@ uga.edu. Your Patriot following: Reflection ____ Yes Shall a special one percent sales and use tax for educational purposes continue to be imposed in Union County for a period not to exceed twenty (20) Ashurst...continued from Page 4A ____ No calendar quarters and for the purpose of raising not more than $49,000,000 of net person creates distrust in the himself or herself as all-im- proceeds by said tax, which shall go to the School District for the purpose of (i) relationship. They will try to portant. 8. Aggressive—The adding to, renovating, repairing, improving, and equipping existing school convince the victim that the toxic individuals do not care buildings and facilities, including, but not limited to Union County Middle School, toxic individual is sweet, kind, about the feelings of others. Fine Arts Center upgrades, Career Technical Agriculture Education equipment, and sincere. 7. Narcissistic— Their personality traits convey Agriscience Center upgrades, athletic facilities and lighting, cafeterias, HVAC and 7KHWR[LFSHUVRQKDVDQLQÁDW- that they don’t care about the rooÀng upgrades, classroom furnishings and Áooring upgrades, and parking ed sense of self-importance. welfare of others. facilities; (ii) acquire, construct, and equip new school buildings and facilities They seek to place blame on Next week: more ten- including new middle school athletic and physical education facilities; (iii) RWKHUV7KLVVHOÀVKSHUVRQVHHV dencies of the toxic person. acquiring textbooks, e-books, e-book readers, computers, laptops, tablets, peripherals, and any instructional materials/equipment; (iv) acquiring school buses and Áeet vehicles and maintenance equipment; (v) acquiring miscellaneous new Correction: Wimberly. The caption identified 6DFULÀFHIRUWKH Preservation equipment, Àxtures and furnishings, including but not limited to playground equipment, cafeteria equipment, and band instruments; (vi) acquiring technology An Aug. 5 article titled Jones as the creator of the piece. equipment and upgrades, hardware, software and infrastructure, safety and security “Habitat’s Panther House 3 However, Jones contacted of Liberty equipment; (vii) land acquisitions for school facility expansions; (viii) designing ready for family move-in” the newspaper following Just a few months and constructing driveways and roadways, the maximum amount of the projects to featured a photo of Robin publication to clarify that the prior to the death of Thomas be paid with sales and use tax proceeds will be $49,000,000. Jones presenting a “Bless Our cross stitch was a community Jefferson, with a sense of Home” cross stitch to new effort. foreboding for our country, Habitat homeowner Dylan “This cross stitch piece he wrote and pleaded with THE LAW was started in my shop last future Americans to sacri- Georgia Constitution Article VIII, Section VI, Paragraph IV, (c), (1 & 2) August on ‘World Cross Stitch ÀFH ZKDWHYHU LW ZRXOG WDNH Day,’” Jones said. “It was a to preserve the charter of (c) The resolution calling for the imposition of the tax and the ballot piece that many stitchers in the liberty for which he and the question shall each describe: community worked on through other founders had given so the year when they visited the (1) The speci¿c capital outlay projects to be funded, or the speci¿c debt much. He said, “We owe ev- shop. Some put in just a few to be retired, or both, if applicable; VFW Karaoke stitches and some an entire HUVDFULÀFHWRRXUVHOYHVWR our federal brethren, and to Karaoke on Wednesdays (2) The maximum cost of such project or projects and, if applicable, the motif, but they all knew that it the world at large, to pursue from 4 PM until 8 PM at the was a gift for the next Habitat with temper and persever- maximum amount of debt to be retired, which cost and amount of debt VFW Post on Sunnyside Rd Home recipient. ance the great experiment shall also be the maximum amount of net proceeds to be raised by the in Hiawassee. Come join us “This piece was prayed which shall prove that man tax; and *Underlines for emphasis for some fun! It is open to the over and then presented to Dylan is capable of living and govpublic. and his family as a welcome erning itself by laws self- Contact UCBOE Chair Tony Hunter now at VFW Fish Fry from the entire stitching community ‘neighborhood.’” imposed, and securing to its’ members the enjoyment tohunter@ucschools.org The VFW is pleased to of life, liberty, property and Tell him to publish a speci¿c project list and cost. have you come and have Fish NGTC peace. Fry with us at our brand new Board Meeting Should liberties so The taxpayers need “fair notice” of what Post on Sunny Side for $12 or $15 all you can eat. North Georgia Techni- dearly won be cast aside so that we are once again con- they are authorizing $49,000,000 for. 7KHQLJKWVRIWKHÀVKIU cal College’s Board of Direc- trolled and limited in the is still the second (2nd) and tors will meet on Wednesday liberties they established for IF THERE IS NO LIST, YOU MUST RESIST the forth (4th) fridays of each August 19, 2026 at 3 p.m. on us, and future generations? month and remember no Tax the Clarkesville Campus. For non loqui sed facere $3DWULRW5HÁHFWLRQLV & no Tip. We hope to see you more information, contact presented weekly by www. there. 706-754-7702. joshuaswarriors.org. Paid Ad by Zeb Blanchard, A Concerned Union County Taxpayer.

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3DJH$7+(1257+*(25*,$1(:6$XJXVW cell: 706-781-7945 First Day of School ...from Page 1A MINDY ALLEN TEAM for the year. Mindy Allen / Ria Storm “While this is a downfall 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville GA Assoc. Brokers/Sisters for adults, (the students) like 706-745-8097 50 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE! it. They’ll remember their teachers getting drowned on Perched on Yonah! the way to the bus,” joked Area rarely for sale. Rachel Beck, an elementary Limited props in this teacher who helped with bus gated comm. 1.96 Acre duty that day. mtn plot w/excellent At one point, a loud elevation + very gently thunderclap boomed at the sloped terrain. elementary school, startling East facing ABOVE Road. Gated Comm. teachers and students alike. #434892 $44,900 As the quickly formed s t o r m g r e w i n i n t e n s i t y, 2007 Keystone Moun- administrators decided to taineer 5th Wheel on lot 43 in Arrowhead briefly delay dismissal across Valley RV Resort. Own the system. a part of the mtns!!! “With the storm Year-round living moving through our area permitted. Community during dismissal time, we pool, pavilion, laundry. felt the safest decision was to 3-slides, furnished keep students and staff inside A pop-up rainstorm blew through the area at the start of #419235 $110,000 until the most severe weather student dismissal Aug. 5, drenching some students and Waterside at Blue had passed,” explained teachers during end-of-day bus loading procedures. Ridge. Forrest River C h i e f A c a d e m i c O ff i c e r Photo by Brittany Holbrooks 2024 Cedar Creek C.T. Hussion. “We know Cottage (25th Anniv. any change in dismissal Edition) on small Comm can create inconvenience lake lot. 40’ cottage, for families, and we 3 slides, King bed, appreciate their patience dbl loft. Cov gazebo. and understanding.” AMENITIES! STRs OK! #419757 $164,900 Ultimately, Beck was right that the day “set the tone” for the rest of the school year, with fellow educator Tina Payne joking that aside from WKH ´%LEOLFDO ÁRRGµ WKH GD went smoothly, and morale remained high. “There is a real sense of family and shared purpose across our schools,” Hussion said. “As we begin a new year, we are excited about where we are and even more Outstanding Service, Outstanding Results excited about where we’re headed. “We have great people doing great work, and I believe there are a lot of good things 7KHDIWHUQRRQVWRUPGHODGLGQ·WODVWORQJODVW:HGQHVGD  ahead for our students, staff and before students knew it, they were on their way home from a community.” VXFFHVVIXOÀUVWGDRIVFKRRO Photo by Shawn Jarrard CRAFTSMAN’S STYLE RANCH Built in 2024. Min to Lake & Boat Ramp. 3BD/2 BA, Split Plan, Upgrades, T&G Caths., Stacked Stone Fplc, LTV flrs, Granite, Isle, TOL Appls, Hickory cabs. XL Lndry/Mud Rm w/Sink. ADA-comp Drs, Hardy Plank, Metal Rf, Cvr’d Porches w/T&G + Scrn’d Porch. 2 Car + Grg + 2 addl spc. ML# 434672 $649,000 UCHS Principal Josh Davis held a morning assembly to give students returning from summer break a rundown of expectations for the new school year. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Licensed in GA & NC c: 706-897-0956 NEW LISTING o: 706-222-5588 KarynWoody.com karynwoody@mountainsir.com NEW LISTING 41 Wilderness Court | Blairsville, GA Offered at $199,900 • MLS #434681 Enjoy peaceful Trackrock Valley living in this well-maintained 1BR/1BA park model. Features include cabin-style interiors, furnishings, screened porch, paved access, electric storage shed, metal roof, and community green space. Listing Agent: Tina McDaniel • 706-713-6004 NEW PRICE 51.20 AC Bethabara Road | Hayesville, NC Offered for $1,500,000 Set across 51.20 unrestricted acres, this remarkable property features open pastureland, a flowing creek, long-range mountain views, and usable terrain ideal for a private mountain estate, working farm, equestrian retreat, family homestead, or vineyard. 99 Highland Circle | Blue Ridge, GA Now Offered at $315,000 • MLS #425420 Well-maintained 3BR/2BA an ranch offering one-level living near downtown Blue NEW PRICE Ridge. Features include an popen living and dining layout, low-maintenance vinyl and stone exterior, paved access, and an additional 1.76-acre lot. Listing Agent: Robert Rogers • 706-897-0962 NEW PRICE 38 Edgewater Lane | Blairsville, GA 383 Rustic Barn Trail | Morganton, GA Now Offered at $1,199,900 • MLS #430857 Now Offered for $949,900 Enjoy Lake Nottely living in this 3BR/2BA home just minutes from Blairsville. Ideally located between Blue Ridge and Blairsville, this new-construction Features include vaulted li ceilings, hardwood floors, granite countertops, stone 4BR/3BA home features upscale finishes, a main-level primary suite, fireplace, furnished interior, ri private covered dock, and expandable terrace level. a lower level with 10-foot ceilings, vented fireplaces, three HVAC zones, covered porches, and a two-car garage. Listing Agent: Robert Rogers • 706-897-0962

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$XJXVW7+(1257+*(25*,$1(:63DJH$ Citizens Academy ...from Page 1 Georgia State Patrol Cpl. William London of Blue Ridge Post 27 said that his DJHQFRIÀFLDOONQRZQDVWKH Georgia Department of Public Safety, is primarily focused on traffic enforcement. GSP assists locally with bad wrecks and road death investigations and has been instrumental in holding dangerous joyriders accountable on Blood Mountain. Rounding out the partner presentations was Union County Schools Police Chief Scott Deyton, who provided information about the School 3'ZKLFKKDVVL[RIÀFHUV WZR stationed at the high school /5 6SHFLDO$JHQW&OLII7LSSHQV*%, &DSW'HUHN'LOODUG'15 &SO0DWW-RKQVRQ'15  and one at each other campus, &KLHI%HDU%D[WHU%ODLUVYLOOH3' 6KHULII6KDZQ'HU8&62 &KLHI'HSXW-RVK%HUU including Woody Gap School. 8&62 'HSXW(GGLH+HQGHUVRQ8&62 &KLHI6FRWW'HWRQ8QLRQ&RXQW6FKRROV3'  The campus agency also UCSO Sheriff Shawn Dyer, right, and Chief Deputy Josh and Cpl. William London, GSP. Photo by Shawn Jarrard has two K-9s, one that sniffs %HUUZHUHLQFUHGLEOSOHDVHGZLWKKRZZHOOWKHÀUVWQLJKW of the Citizens Academy went on Aug. 6. Photo by Shawn Jarrard of the Union County Sheriff’s or direct community donations. educational opportunity only, explosives “in response to Foundation, a new nonprofit Goodies donated for the designed to let people know bomb threat calls in the schools has a healthy appreciation for Calamari will give a talk on that seeks to provide the ÀUVW QLJKW LQFOXGHG SHQV DQG “what we do and why we do it.” or anywhere in North Georgia,” what law enforcement does, Scam Awareness; Capt. Tyler 6KHULII·V 2IÀFH ZLWK QHHGHG pads from United Community Attendees will not be deputized and another trained to identify he said, and hopes to gain an Miller will discuss narcotics equipment – recently, body B a n k ; b a g s , c u p s , h a n d or authorized to perform special drugs. Deyton described some “overall awareness” of the investigations; and Chief Jailor cameras for all deputies – and sanitizers, and highlighters duties on account of their of the upgraded security at the 6KHULII·V2IÀFH Tommy Holbrooks will give offset costs associated with from River City Bank; bottles participation. school system; among other Residents William and an overview and tour of Union educating the public. of water from Home Depot; “They’re just citizens measures, every classroom now Xan Gatling signed up as a pair. County Jail. A l l c l a s s m a t e r i a l s koozies and magnets from learning what we do,” Dyer said. has cameras, as do the school After that first session, they %XW WKH 6KHULII·V 2IÀFH and supplies for the Citizens DNR; and dinner from Chick- Keep an eye out for buses. were struck by what it takes does more than just investigate Academy were purchased either ÀO$ future Citizens Academy He credited partnerships behind the scenes to make a crimes and make arrests; the through Sheriff’s Foundation The sheriff wants the signups, as the sheriff intends with surrounding law growing county like Union class will also feature talks on funds, like the class packets public to understand that to hold the class at least once a enforcement agencies like the seem so much like “Mayberry” Courthouse Security, Animal and commemorative T-shirts, the Citizens Academy is an year moving forward. 8QLRQ&RXQW6KHULII·V2IÀFH to the general public: “I had Control, the budgeting process, with helping the schools to no idea all the stuff they were the Sheriff ’s Emergency train and prepare for worst case involved in,” William said. Response Team and more. TOBY SWARTZ scenarios, like the potential for The remaining four Week four will include active shooters. weeks will be focused on a special presentation on (706) 781-8164 Attendees, such as various aspects of the Sheriff’s joint operations between tobymswartz@gmail.com Blairsville resident Lloyd Office, with lessons about WKH 6KHULII·V 2IÀFH DQG )LUH www.tobyswartz.com Lukas, thoroughly enjoyed each UCSO department to be Department, which work their experience that night and instructed by personnel actively together on search & rescue 253 E. Hwy. 515, Suite B, Blairsville GA • 706-745-8097 are looking forward to the rest assigned to them. This will as well as recovery operations. LAKEFRONT LIVING AT ITS FINEST! of the sessions. give participants the chance to The Emergency Management Stunning 4br/4ba Craftsman style home LOCATED in a Lukas read about the PHHWDVPDQ6KHULII·V2IÀFH Agency and E-911 Center will LARGE, CLEAN, PRIVATE COVE. You’ll enjoy the safety of the calm waters for swimming, paddle-boarding & all your water class in the newspaper and said employees as possible. also feature that week. sports, for there is minimal boat traf¿c & less wake than other he didn’t even have to think For instance, Financial Sheriff Dyer structured areas of the lake. Situated on 4.28 gorgeous unrestricted about signing up. He already Crimes Investigator Sgt. Bob the class to be a beneficiary acres, this property has the RARE opportunity to build an additional lake home - already approved. This exceptional property offers year round mountain, pasture & lake views with incredible sunsets! Designed for both entertaining & ev- eryday living, this property boasts multiple outdoor gathering spaces - such as the large back covered porch, side deck with ¿rebox & green egg & a gorgeous lakeside patio complete with running water & huge stone ¿re pit! Step inside this luxurious mountain home to ¿nd a bright open concept to showcase the water views. Spacious living room with wood beams & stone ¿replace Àows seamlessly into the updated well-appointed kitchen. This upscale home showcases elegant upgrades & high end ¿nishes throughout the home with every attention to detail including the amazing full ¿nished basement with second kitchen/large bar. The fenced in pasture is ideal for family & pets, while the two outbuildings, 2-car garage, & detached carport provide ample storage for all your vehicles & lake toys. Priced BELOW appraised value! $1,725,000. MLS428982 Forty-two members of the public signed up for the UCSO Citizens Academy, giving all presenters their rapt attention and posing interesting questions throughout the evening. Photo by Shawn Jarrard 8QLRQ(DUO5HDGHUV/DXQFKHV1HZ1DPH New Partner for Children’s Book Program books to children from birth to family reading habits, and DJHÀYHµRUJDQL]HUVVDLG close early-literacy gaps by Founded by entertainer building home libraries from and philanthropist Dolly Par- LQIDQFWKURXJKDJHÀYH ton in 1995, the Imagination Community support re- Library began in Sevier Coun- mains central to sustaining the Ferst Readers of Union ty, Tenn., with a goal of inspir- program. A contribution of just County has reintroduced itself ing a love of books among $31 covers books and postage as Union Early Readers and preschool children by mailing for one child for a full year. announced a transition from them a free, carefully selected Much appreciated dona- Ferst Readers to Dolly Par- title each month. The program tions may be mailed to: Union ton’s Imagination Library as has since expanded across the Early Readers, P.O. Box 2743, its book-distribution partner. United States and internation- Blairsville, GA 30514. “The change preserves the ally, partnering with local or- Registration forms are long-running local effort to ganizations to increase kinder- available at the Union County deliver free, age-appropriate garten readiness, strengthen Public Library. :KHUHFRPPXQLW FRPHVILUVWDQG EDQNLQJLVSHUVRQDO ČĊĐ,¥ªõ‚ûďċď Ĥ½‚ÚÞô½½š ÚôšÚåûĪ‚ĺ

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Page 8A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 Rep. Clyde Urges ATF to Limit Firearm Record Retention and Destroy Illegal Gun Registry Congressman Andrew Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, be retained for up to 30 years ers’ Protection Act of 1986 Americans’ Second Amend- Clyde (GA-09) led nearly 30 Firearms and Explosives by the selling FFL and an ad- (FOPA) and a critical appro- ment freedoms by giving the of his House Republican col- (ATF) Director Robert Cekada ditional 30 years by the ATF priations rider as explicit legal government access to extenleagues in sending a letter urging the agency to limit the after transfer to the National prohibitions on the ATF’s cur- sive records on who owns fire- retention of firearm records Tracing Center (NTC), for a rent recordkeeping practices. arms, where they are located, $ CASH 4 $ to 20 years and immediately destroy digitally recorded fire- potential maximum combined retention period of 60 years. “Read together, these two prohibitions permanently and what types are owned. We are alarmed by recent reports $ $ $ Antique/Barn $ arm registration records. In response, the law- preclude the ATF from record- indicating that the ATF may $ $ On May 6th, the ATF makers urge ATF Director ing or digitizing any firearms possess over one billion digi- $ Tools $ issued a Notice of Proposed Cekada to revise the agency’s transaction records, regard- tally recorded firearm registra- $ $ $ Old Tractors $ Rulemaking (NPRM) titled “Firearm Records Retention proposed rule and destroy any digitized firearm transaction less of the retention period otherwise applicable to those tion records, and the agency has acknowledged digitizing $ & Wagons $ Periods” (RIN 1140-AA95). records. records. The ATF’s digitized more than 50 million records $ $ $ Labosco’s at the $ This NPRM proposes that “In our view, the current records exhibit every charac- annually. Historically, we note $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ Form 4473s be retained for ei- practice of indefinite retention teristic of a registry, contain- that firearm registration has re- $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ ther 20 or 30 years by both fed- of firearm transaction records, ing personally identifying in- peatedly served as a precursor $ $ eral firearms licensees (FFLs) and even the proposed reten- formation, physical addresses, Congressman to firearm confiscation. Ex- $ 706-745-0097 $ and the ATF — meaning a fire- tion period of up to 60 years, and detailed firearm charac- Andrew Clyde panding firearm registration CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! arm transaction record could are excessive and risk infring- teristics. Therefore, the ATF’s comment record is vulnerable poses a serious threat to law- ing on the privacy of lawful continued recording of such to reversal on that basis alone. abiding Americans free exer- gun owners. We therefore urge records remains out of compli- Should the ATF finalize this cise of their Second Amend- “Join like-minded People” the ATF to revise this NPRM ance with current law.” rule without directly address- ment rights going forward.” and instead promulgate a rule The lawmakers further ing the FOPA and appropria- In closing, the lawmak- establishing a 20-year total argue that the ATF’s proposed tions-rider prohibitions iden- ers highlight the agency’s Tuesday, August 18th retention policy, from the date rule is vulnerable under the tified in this letter, the final positive direction under Direc- of sale, for the physical, non- Administrative Procedure Act rule would be independently tor Cekada’s leadership, yet 5:30 PM digitized firearm transaction as “in excess of statutory ju- vulnerable to challenge on the note the need for additional records held by FFLs or the risdiction, authority, or limi- ground that the ATF failed to changes to the ATF’s record- Pat Haralson Memorial ATF and to provide for the im- tations” and note the agency consider an important aspect keeping to protect and restore mediate destruction of all such must address the statutory pro- of the problem before it.” Americans’ Second Amend- Civic Center records older than 20 years. hibitions raised or face rever- Additionally, Congress- ment rights. 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA Furthermore, we urge the ATF sal challenges. man Clyde and his colleagues “We remain encour- to comply with existing law “Both statutory prohibi- sound the alarm on the stag- aged by the direction the ATF Vince Peterson prohibitions on the recording and digitization of such fire- tions go directly to the ques- tion of whether the ATF has gering scale of the ATF’s ex- isting digitized records and has taken under your leader- ship. However, the changes arm transaction records, and any authority to record or digi- the grave threat they pose to proposed in this NPRM per- speaks about to immediately destroy any tize these records at all – an is- Americans’ Second Amend- petuate an illegal gun registry recordings of such records al- sue the NPRM does not appear ment liberties. scheme that jeopardizes the SPLOST/ESPLOST ready in its possession.” to have considered, let alone “Let us be clear, gun Second Amendment rights of Rep. Clyde and his col- resolved. Agencies are obli- owners should be able to exer- law-abiding Americans. We Union County Democratic Party Monthly Meeting leagues cite the Firearm Own- gated to respond meaningfully cise their Second Amendment urge you to adjust course and to significant comments raised rights privately and free from adopt the suggestions out- during notice-and-comment federal government infringe- lined herein, in the interest of rulemaking, and a final rule ment. Yet, the ATF’s record- advancing and protecting the that fails to grapple with statu- ing and digitizing of out-of- Second Amendment liberties tory prohibitions raised in the business records jeopardizes of all Americans.” NT(Aug12,Z11)CA Invitation to the Union County Firewise Citizen’s Community Coalition Meeting Wednesday, August 19th Blairsville Fire Station #1, 507 Shoe Factory Road By Joe Boone duce the risk of fire damage to er outlook and fire risk for Fighting wildfires has their homes and communities. the area; 3) Presentation by always been a difficult task All homeowners in Mark and Stephanie Wiles on regardless of where you are Union County are invited to a Union County’s new Commu- located. Lately, large fires in meeting of the Union County nity Wildfire Protection Plan. Spain, France, and Greece as Firewise Citizen’s Coalition “How will its implementa- well as Spokane, Washing- at Fire Station #1 at 507 Shoe tion help the county deal with ton have been reminded that Factory Road in Blairsville at wildfire risk by identify the wildfires are a global problem. 1 pm on Wednesday, August risks and act including the pur-    Wildfire safety begins at your 19 to learn about the FREE chase of equipment and train- home, your neighborhood, and Firewise Program. The pro- ing of personnel, to meet the     your county with proper prep- gram is a partnership between county wildfire threats,” and aration before a wildfire ar- experienced firefighters and 4) plans for our next program       rives. The last thing you want county homeowners to deter- in November. We will hold a to think about is having your mine what can be done to re- raffle for some fire blankets.        home destroyed by fire. duce wildfire risk and protect So come win a prize! In addi- You are invited to attend their home. Simple steps like tion, the question will be asked    a meeting of the Union County limiting the amount of flam- “Should the Coalition develop Paid Advertisement Firewise Citizen’s Coalition to mable material close to your its own Facebook Page – what learn how the Firewise Pro- home, yard landscaping, and are the benefits and risks? gram can help you protect your use of fire-resistant home con- During 2025 we expe- NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS home from wildfires. Union County now has 14 communi- struction can greatly improve a wildfire outcome. rienced dry, windy weather in Union County – perfect wild- ties that have become Firewise The meeting will in- fire conditions! Please help Blairsville Internal Medicine is a well-established Communities. This means that clude: 1) A review of the last us prepare to live with our experienced, internal medicine, practice accepting new their homes have already been assessed for wildfire risk by Coalition meeting; 2) Up- dates of Firewise Community, wildfire risk by taking some simple steps to reduce your patients who care as much about their health as we do. firefighters and that the com- Agency, and Towns County home’s fire risk and be better munities have decided to work Coalition status including a prepared for our next wildfire Services include: together to take action to re- look at the long range weath- event. NT(Aug12,Z8)CA • General Primary Care • Chronic Disease Management • Physicals • Annual Medicare Wellness Auditions for Sherlock Thriller! Resident Artistic Direc- be blackmailed by a notorious Holmes, Dr. Watson, Prof. • Sick Visits tor Laurel Adams announces photograph, and the woman at Moriarity, King of Bohemia, • Women’s Health upcoming auditions for the the heart of this crime is the Sid Prince, Irene Adler and • Insulin Pump Management Peacock’s fall production, famous opera singer, Irene James and Madge Larrabee, • Laboratory “Sherlock Holmes: the Final Adler. With Doctor Watson plus some small roles. Call the Adventure”, directed by Ali at his side, Sherlock pursues Peacock for more information. • Ultrasound/ Echocardiogram Whitlock. first the case, and then the af- Auditions are Saturday, • Vaccinations The plot revolves fections of Miss Adler, and Aug. 15, 22 (10-1 p.m.) and • Preventive Health around Holmes reaching the marches right into the lair of Aug. 17, 18 (6-8 p.m.) Per- end of his remarkable career, Professor Moriarty and dan- formances are Oct. 9-11 and • 24 hour Glucose Monitor when a case presents itself that ger, intrigue, wit, humor and 16-18. Scripts are in the office Pictured from left to right: Suzanna Pollock, NP; Jill Nielsen, DNP; Cameron Harper, NP; Elizabeth Wiles, DO; Leanne Flowers, NP; • Lesion Removal is too tempting to ignore: the surprise! now T – F, 10 – 4 p.m. & Mary Beth Wiles, MD King of Bohemia is about to Needed are: Sherlock 374 Pat Haralson Drive, Blairsville Appointments can be made by calling 706-745-5541 For more details, visit www.blairsvilleinternalmedicine.com

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9A Church News in the Mountains of North Georgia The Feeding of the Homecoming at Liberty Hill Church Handheld Sermon: Grapes or Raisins? Have you ever reached 5,000 and the Kingdom of God into a bowl expecting to grab David Krout The Feeding of the a fresh, juicy grape, only to New World 5,000 has captured the imagi- The Rev. discover it had become a rai- Liz Harvest Church nation of Christians for a long sin? It’s still recognizable, but Schellingerhoudt it isn’t what you expected. d_krout@ time (Matthew 14:13-21). Jesus has just learned of John Rector Somewhere along the way, it yahoo.com the Baptist’s beheading at the St. Clare’s dried up. It lost its sweetness, Episcopal Church its freshness, and its purpose. wild grapes, but I pictured hand of King Herod during Blairsville a banquet and he withdraws That thought came to fruit that had withered instead “in a boat to a deserted place which is marked by violence mind as I read Isaiah 5. of flourishing. Fruit that had by himself.” In his grief, Je- and laws designed to suppress The prophet tells the dried up before it ever became sus seeks solitude, but a large the majority of the people. Je- story of a landowner who what it was intended to be. crowd is looking for him. sus is ushering in a compas- planted a vineyard. He cleared The truth is; that can Isn’t it possible that sionate kingdom. the stones, prepared the soil, happen to us. A heart once full this large crowd has sought The feeding of the 5,000 planted the finest vines, built of compassion can slowly dry out Jesus because they, too, is a story of what the Kingdom a watchtower, and even carved into indifference. A vibrant Appalachia Gospel group “Hickory Stand” out a winepress. He did ev- prayer life can become routine. have heard of John’s death of God looks like in action. Jeand are grieving? In contrast sus sees the needs of this very Liberty Hill Church with the Appalachia Gospel erything a loving owner could A forgiving spirit can harden to Herod’s banquet, the meal large crowd of people and re- Family is excited to announce group “Hickory Stand”, Ca- possibly do. Then he waited into bitterness. We may still that Jesus presides over begins sponds. He immediately tends it’s 154th Homecoming Cele- leb Dykes, Paul Wilson, Ja- for a harvest. look like followers of Christ on with Jesus’s compassion for to their basic needs by healing bration “Coming Home, Faith, mie Shook, and Perry Stalcup, “He looked for it to the outside, but inside we’ve the people and is marked by their illnesses and giving them Family, and Fellowship.” Join from Brasstown, NC, begin- yield grapes, but it yielded become spiritually dry. compassion (to “suffer with”), food. There is no demarcation us on Sunday, August 23, ning at 10:30 AM. wild grapes.” (Isaiah 5:2) Jesus said, “By their abundance and nourishment. made at this banquet – all are 2026. A Potluck Fellowship The vineyard repre- fruit you will recognize them.” Herod’s kind of kingdom is included in Jesus’s care re- Memorial Services at Meal following services. sented God’s people. He had (Matthew 7:16) marked by gluttony, abuse of gardless of who they are. All The Cedar Tree begins at 10 The church is located at blessed them, protected them, God isn’t looking for power, violence, cowardice are offered food; all are of- AM led by Pastor A.J. Nichols. 255 Liberty Hill Road, Hwy. and given them everything perfection; He’s looking for and a hierarchy designed to fered healing. Followed by inside Church 515 just past Fannin/Union they needed to flourish. Yet fruit. Love. Joy. Peace. Pabenefit a few at the expense of The Kingdom of God Services and special singing County line. instead of producing justice, tience. Kindness. Goodness. the majority. that Jesus shows us is one righteousness, and faithful- Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self- This grieving crowd marked by the great command- Legacy of Rich Mullins Concert ness, they produced something control. Those are the grapes bitter and disappointing. He desires to see growing in could easily become an angry mob. With that many people, ment to love God, neighbor and self, and to take care of the at St. Luke’s Blue Ridge August 27th As I read those words, I our lives. Jesus could start an army. poor, the sick, the hungry, the St. Luke’s Blue Ridge couldn’t help but think of rai- Perhaps today is a good However, Jesus is ushering in prisoner and the stranger. The will be the venue for a Legacy sins. day to ask ourselves a simple a new kind of kingdom, not Kingdom of God shows us of Rich Mullins Concert set No, Isaiah called them question: Am I bearing fresh like the kingdom of Herod what love in action looks like. for Thursday, Aug. 27. Singer fruit for the Lord, or have I / songwriter Charles Lutz, as- Bethlehem Baptist slowly become a spiritual rai- sisted by local musician Mat- Union County Fellowship of thew Scoggins, will present Youth movie night sin? The good news is this: Christian Athletes “Fields of Faith” the 6 p.m. concert featuring Bethlehem Baptist Church Youth movie night the Master Gardener has never Union County Fellow- faith and fellowship that you guitar, piano, banjo and lap given up on His vineyard. If and hammered dulcimers. An ages 10+ on Friday, August we’ll return to Him, He can ship of Christian Athletes will won’t forget. Mark your cal- 21st. Please come join us and be hosting their 2nd Annual endars and be there! offering will be taken to ben- make dry places flourish again. efit Indigenous Bible College bring a friend! Food will be “Fields of Faith” on Sunday, For more information served at 6 PM; movie starts Harmony Grove August 23rd, 5-8 PM at The or if you want to invest in the where Lutz serves as an ad- junct instructor. at 7 PM. Showing “I Can Only Fine Arts Center! ministry of Union County FCA Imagine”. Popcorn will be Baptist Children’s The theme this year is you can contact Jerry Helton at Rich Mullins (1955- 1997) was an American con- served during the movie. “A Living Hope”. Our focus 706-781-4362 or email: jerry- temporary Christian music Call 828-371-3340 for Clothing Ministry is on Middle and High School helton@fca.org. more information. Address: The Children’s Clothing students, but everyone is wel- singer and songwriter. He Charles Lutz is best known for his “Awe- broadcasting of services, as 2043 State Hwy. 325, Blairs- Ministry at Harmony Grove come. Free tee shirt for first 250 students. Zion Baptist some God” and “Sometimes well as assisting with music ville, GA 30512. Baptist Church (1008 Town by Step”. Mullins’ start in the and education. Creek School Road, Blairs- For an evening of fun, Church Services Christian music industry oc- St. Luke’s, a Gospel- Bunker Hill ville) is open to the commu- Join us at Zion Church, curred in mid-1981 when Amy centered, outward looking, nity by appointment only. If Shady Grove UMC Suches each Sunday at 11 AM, Grant recorded his song “Sing Anglican church, is located Baptist Services there is a need for children or 1604 Owltown Road “Mega Signs for Our Lord’s Your Praise to the Lord.” at 7 Ewing Street across from Bunker Hill Baptist teen clothes, please contact the Return”. Lutz, a native of In- the Blue Ridge Kiwanis Club Church would like to invite church office at 706-835-1449 Blairsville, GA Zion Church is located diana, relocated recently to Fairgrounds. For more infor- you to worship with us. Sun- and leave a message. One of (706) 781-4729 at 10 Zion Road and Wolf Pen North Georgia. At St. Luke’s, mation, visit stlukesblueridge. day School - 10 AM; Worship our volunteers will contact Gap Road (180) in Suches. he directs video and internet org or call 706-632-8245. - 11 AM. you as soon as possible. Mount Hebron Baptist Church Mountain St. Francis of Assisi Presbyterian Church We invite YOU to Come Worship With Us! Catholic Church ŝŽĐĞƐĞŽĨƚůĂŶƚĂ Unity Church Fr. Cong Nguyen, Pastor 3737 Hwy. 515 E, Blairsville /HGIRUG5RDG‡%ODLUVYLOOH ‡VWFODUHVHSLVFRSDORUJ of the Mountains 706-745-6400 Come worship with us 2309 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville www.stfrancisblairsville.com Sunday Worship Service Times: Sunday mornings at 11 AM +RO(XFKDULVWLQSHUVRQDQGRQ )DFHERRN6XQGD $0 706-781-3393 Saturday Vigil: 11:00 am Sunday Morning: 10:30 AM with Fellowship following. DQG:HGQHVGD 30 A path to 4:30 PM & 6:30 PM (Spanish) Sunday School 10:00 am Wednesday: 7:00 PM 3831 GA-515 | Blairsville Weekday Morning Prayer - 8 AM :HHNGD0RUQLQJ3UDHU $0 spiritual living. Sunday Masses: 8:30 & 11 AM 1237 Booger Hollow Rd. 706-745-8036 &RPSOLQH 30 )DFHERRNRQO Sunday Service 10:30 Sharing the love of Jesus in the Rev. Alex Nixon 678-428-7118 Pastor Deron Shuler mtnpres.org 7KH5HY/L]6FKHOOLQJHUKRXGW UnityChurchoftheMountains.org North Georgia Mountains and beyond Fundamental Liberty Baptist Church Independent 1709 Pat Colwell Rd. • Blairsville, GA Sunday School.......10:00 a.m. 706-745-8262 • Rev. Gary Rogers, Pastor Sunday Worship....11:00 a.m. Sunday School ......................................10:00AM Sunday Evening...... 5:00 p.m. Sunday Worship ...................................11:00AM Wednesday............ 7:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study ......................... 7:00PM 4231 Trackrock Gap Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Food Ministry Clothing Ministry Timothy L. Mason, Pastor First Tuesday Every Tuesday 706-745-3130 - Church Phone • www.slbcga.org 3:00-6:00PM 3:00-6:00PM N(Mar16,eow,ufn)B Welcome to God ’s House I was glad when they said, “Let us go to the House of the Lord.” This church feature is sponsored by these civic minded businesses KING Brasstown Manor Hemphill Vinyl Siding Valley Mountain Motors Murphy, NC Where you are treated like Royalty! Senior Living & Metal RooÀng 706-632-5357 Clothing Shoes Appliances Furniture SALES - LEASING - SERVICE - RENTAL 706-896-4285 154 Kelley Road 7535 Appalachian Hwy. Groceries Sporting Goods Jewelry 828.837.2121 / KingFordSales.com / 800.388.2897 108 Church Street, Hiawassee Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-6450 2450 W US Hwy 64, Murphy, North Carolina 28906 www.BrasstownManorSeniorLiving.com 745-3145 • 745-9006 Blue Ridge, GA GA MTN GRINDING TURPIN’S & RECYCLING “ “ WRECKER They say love is the best investment; the more Screened Topsoil, Mulch, Fill Dirt, Erosion Control Supply you give, the more you get in return. SERVICE blairsville 706.400.5043 (King’s Hometown Pharmacy) -Audrey Hepburn 24/7 Towing & Emergency Roadside Services 241 GRINDER ROAD, BLAIRSVILLE murphy 828.837.7474 706-835-2000 • 706-994-4818 706-896-4138 hayesville 828.516.9950 KingsRxAndWellness.com 706-896-4936 MON-FRI 8AM-5PM | SAT 8AM-NOON Give It Away @kingsrxandwellness | @kingshometownpharmacy McKinney L ove is not something that we can store or save like we Heating & Air Conditioning can with money or material possessions. Love is better thought of as both a feeling and an action, and “When Comfort Counts!” in fact a feeling that often comes naturally when we act in loving ways. And thus, it makes sense that we have more 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville, GA 706-745-8097 148 Smith St. love the more that we give away. That is, the more that we Mindy Allen / Ria Storm act in a loving manner, the more love we will get directed 706-896-1800 back to us and the more loving and lovable we will feel. Like 706-781-7945 so many things in life, we often must take a leap of faith and North Georgia News act with love and kindness to those around us and that Business Cards, Stationery, same love that we give will come right back to us. It’s as simple as smiling at others and being generous when we JACKY CHRYSLER Labels, Banners, Invitations, 706-745-6343 can. There are endless ways in which we can be loving, and we always know when we aren’t being so. JONES "I>A? RafÁe Tickets & More! (??J® THE BEST PLACE –Christopher Simon 0;G West Printing Co. FOR LOCAL NEWS AND ADVERTISING! HAYESVILLE, NC • (828) 389-1958 706-745-6343

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Page 10A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 The Ability Connection: Inclusion At Work Church News in the Mountains textural modifications for typi- cal children up to 5 years old. we are all in this together. If you wish to give a donation to A Man’s Character: Gold or Corruption Revealed This includes Head Start, Pre- K and daycare for employees. the Union County Early Read- ing Program, please contact Difficult times reveal ing to drop supplies. When the The goal is to reach 350 to Cathy Kirby at L&M Fureither gold or corruption in a mayor at the time was asked The Rev. 400 children per month if not niture, PO Box 2743. L&M man’s character. about this disgraceful be- Victor H. Morgan more. Furniture Outlet & Treasures A deluge of water and havior, all he could say was, Rector Cathy and Carol also is located at 1489 Blue Ridge mud this past week in Mc- “What do you expect. They’re St. Luke’s have been approached by spe- Highway, Blairsville, GA Caysville, GA, and Copper- all on drugs.” It was a sorry Church Submitted by Lisa Kramer cial needs families who are 30512. hill, TN, brought back memo- sight. Blue Ridge Networking and support excited about their children’s NEWS FLASH: This ries of another flood . . . one Those in McCaysville got together once again at the involvement in the program. just in and its hot off the everyone at the time thought and Copperhill were of a high- in Christ: “For he [the Father] monthly Kiwanis meeting held For children with special presses. Union County Pubwas the one that would end er caliber . . . most but not all. hath made him [the Son] to be on Aug. 3. The Ability Con- challenges, the Early Read- lic Library has a social movie all floods, the flood of 1990. While everyone was looking sin for us, who knew no sin; nection wants to thank Kiwan- ing Program fits their objec- club which meets monthly. On On the day of that earlier after the vulnerable, one man that we might be made the is for their acknowledgement tive perfectly, keeping in mind Aug. 14 at 1 p.m., the movie flood, I drove up the hill to who operated a package store righteousness of God in him” of our goals, and we appreci- that one learning style doesn’t pick is Alfred Hitchcock’s McCaysville School. From on the edge of Copperhill and (1 Corinthians 5:21). ate becoming members in their fit all readers. Flannel boards 1954 Murder Mystery, “Dial that vantage point, I could see who became known as “Scuz What this means in real organization. We look forward are just one of the many ways M For Murder.” Contact Ms. the angry, red water swirling White” was discovered in a time is that the ‘scuz’ in us can to a beneficial relationship individual levels will be assist- Brenna at 706-745-7491 for through the twin towns. The jewelry store running his fin- be transformed; tarnished al- in exchanging ideas and pro- ing readers. Methods for any more information or just pop water amplified doleful tolling gers through the mud looking loy can become shining gold. viding programs for all our beginning reader copies strat- on by. of the electronic carillon atop for watches and anything else “There is welcome for the sin- children, typical and special egies from different models. For information and upthe First Baptist Church. of value . . . thus vindicating ner, and more graces for the needs, in the Blairsville Com- This is just one of many ways dates about The Ability Con- Even before the wa- my opening premise: “Dif- good,” says hymnwriter Fred- munity and in Union County. we learn from each other and nection, please contact our ter receded, residents joined ficult times reveal either gold erick W. Faber Following a review of share our successes. Facebook group at Special emergency personnel in doing or corruption in a man’s char- If this wonderful trans- the meeting’s agenda, guest Every child is unique, Needs Families in Union whatever they could, not only acter.” formation has not already hap- speakers Carol Knight and and reading is not a race nor County. For all teachers, parfor themselves, but for others. I don’t want to go too pened in your life, why not let Cathy Kirby did a presenta- a comparison. Developmental ents, personnel and faculty More than that, this neighbor- hard on Scuz White because, God turn your tarnished alloy tion on Union County’s Early milestones, regardless of age, members involved in this new helping-neighbor spirit contin- according to the scriptures, into pure gold? If it has, get Reading Program. In exis- should be celebrated. Yet one school year, The Ability Conued for weeks and months. we all are far gone from the on with bearing the burdens tence for 10 years, its mission more reminder that we are nection wishes you much suc- It is interesting to note righteousness demanded of of others and thus becoming a is literacy through books and more alike than different, and cess. N(Aug12,Z7)CA the difference in response of God. None of us are pure gold; blessing to those near and far? the citizens of McCaysville rather a motley alloy. We have O GOD, who declarest Curtis & Kim Jones Mountain Gypsy Music and Copperhill to those in not loved God or our neighbor thy almighty power chiefly New Orleans following Ka- as we ought and are subject to in showing mercy and pity; play the Byron Herbert Reece Farm Pavilion August 14 trina in 2005. There, instead of the weaknesses of the flesh. Mercifully grant unto us such Curtis & Kim Jones responsible men taking charge The divine image marred at a measure of thy grace, that Mountain Gypsy Music will and doing what they could to what Christians call “the Fall” we, running the way of thy be playing at the Byron Hersort things out, people were needs to be restored. Thus, commandments, may obtain bert Reece Farm Pavilion on standing outside waiting for we all stand in need of the for- thy gracious promises, and be August 14, 2026 from 1-3 the government, many chant- giveness and grace of God. made partakers of thy heav- PM. 8552 Gainesville Hwy., ing: “Where’s George Bush? The good news – the enly treasure; through Jesus Blairsville GA 30512. Where’s George Bush?” Some Gospel – is that God can Christ our Lord. Amen. (Col- Curtis Jones reigns as took to breaking into busi- turned motley alloy into gold. lect for the 11th Sunday after one of the most highly-renesses and looting, while oth- This transformation is possible Trinity, Book of Common spected flatpicking guitarists ers shot at helicopters attempt- because of what God has done Prayer). N(Aug12,Z7)CA on the planet. Expanding on a legacy forged by musicians Felton Hughes Glimpsing The Person You Could Be such as David Gilmour, Pat Metheny, Paco De Lucia, Doc Family Reunion The conversation ended hours ago, but it keeps replay- Rabbi Watson and Tony Rice. Jones The Felton Hughes is often called by fans and crit- ing in your mind. You know Yonatan ics alike, “The World’s Fastest Family Reunion will be held the feeling. The meeting is Hambourger on Saturday, August 15, 2056 and Cleanest” acoustic guitar- over. The argument has ended. ist. This is an extraordinary at the Pavilion below the Se- Life has moved on. And yet TASTE OF nior Center from 12:30 to 4 technique that he both teaches something lingers. TORAH and brings to his contempo- PM. NT(Aug12,Z12)CA Perhaps it was not what rary guitar performances and you said, but how you said it. We know the moments Collins-Wimpey Perhaps you were technically when the two portraits drift productions. However, speed is only a small part of what Family Reunion right, but not particularly kind. Or perhaps you missed an op- apart. The promise we intend- ed to keep. The kindness we Curtis can do. Through his Kim & Curtis Jones Mountain Gypsy Music Collins-Wimpey Re- pure guitar mastery, he has to a world of complete beauty, Monk, and Mccoy Tyner. She portunity to be more patient, meant to show. The courage the ability to weave in and passion, grace and fire. plays upright Bass and sings union will be held at the Old more generous, or more coura- we hoped we would find when Liberty Baptist Church. It is out of Jazz, Rock, Bluegrass, Kim Jones is a musician, with the Mountain Gypsy duo geous than you were. the moment arrived. Few Flamenco, and World Music artist, singer, song-writer, and as well as occasional keytime again for the annual re- The discomfort is diffi- disappointments sting more union. It will be on Sunday, styles in a way that is more published author. Her vocal board. Kim also plays upright cult to explain because nobody sharply than realizing we have original than anything that has influences growing up were Bass and sings in Curtis’ full August 16th. Our Sunday else may even know about it. fallen short of our own stanschool will be omitted this been heard since Django Rein- Wynonna Judd, Patty Love- Bluegrass band, Primal Roots. But you know. You caught a dards. hardt, while taking the listener less, Janice Joplin, Bobbie She has been singing her whole day. Singing service will begin glimpse of the gap between the Yet that recognition is at 10:15. Singing for us will be Gentry, Bonnie Raitt, and Ste- life but has only in the last few person you are and the person not meant to discourage us. Mr. Mike Pardue. Also we will you mean to be. It is meant to guide us. That Bagpipe weekly vie Nicks. Her Musical influ- years began to perform in front hear singing from our pastor, ences include Jaco Pastorious, of live audiences. Kim plays Rev. Chad Underwood, and In Parshat Shoftim, is why the Torah repeats the Instruction Richard Wright, Bill Evans, and sings with strong emotion the Torah commands: “Jus- command to pursue justice. family Worship Service will tice, justice shall you pursue” Before we can build a and Rehearsal John Coltrane, Thelonious and delta blues style soul. NT(Aug12,Z18)CA start after the singing. Rev. (Deuteronomy 16:20). Why just society, we must become The Appalachian Saint Underwood will be preach- does the Torah repeat the word more just people. Before we Andrew’s Pipes and Drums ing. Our lunch will follow the “justice”? can bring integrity to the world bagpipe band meets weekly on morning service. One possibility is that around us, we must bring in- Saturday mornings at 9 AM at This reunion has been there are two pursuits taking tegrity to the world within us. St. Clare’s Episcopal Church going since 1946. We have had place at the same time. The pursuit of justice is not in Blairsville, GA, for instrucgreat attendance in the past and The first is the pursuit only about changing institu- tion and rehearsal. look forward to more people of justice in society. We need tions; it is also about closing The Band is actively rebeing with us this year. Tell all honest courts, ethical lead- the gap between our ideals and cruiting pipers and drummers, your relatives about this and let’s make this year even bet- ers, and laws that protect the vulnerable. A healthy society our actions. The prophet Jeremiah both experienced and begin- ning! We promise excellent Awake America Prayer Meetings ter. You will be blessed with instruction in a friendly and Awake America Prayer our Nation, its leaders and Re- depends on them. But there teaches that G-d delights in good gospel music, preach- supportive environment, and Meetings in Hiawassee, GA. vival for America. is another pursuit that takes “kindness, justice, and righing, along with good food and invites anyone with a serious They are held every second Please join us as we lift place much closer to home. It teousness on earth.” Those fellowship. Hope to see you interest in learning the Great Thursday of each month at this Country in prayer! is the pursuit of becoming the qualities are not merely legal there! NT(Aug12,Z18)CA Highland Bagpipe or Scottish 11:59 AM at the Towns Coun- For more info contact person we were meant to be. ideals. They are personal ones. Drums to come and visit a re- ty Red Cross, Hiawassee, GA. Facilitator: Wayne Dillworth Jewish tradition teach- They describe the kind of peo- Shady Grove es that when G-d calls out, ple we are meant to become. hearsal session. So come join Please join Elected of- Facebook or email: wjdill@ ficials, Pastors, Community gmail.com. website: www. UMC Fundraiser “Abraham, Abraham,” or “Moses, Moses,” He is ad- The good news is that the Torah does not demand us! For further information: Leaders, and concerned citi- awakeamericaprayermeetings. Shady Grove United 865-456-8489 or www.ASAP- zens as they meet to pray for org. T(Aug12,A1)JT dressing both the earthly per- perfection. It asks only that Methodist Church is taking son and the heavenly one. One we keep pursuing—that we DBand.com. NT(Aug12,Z1)CA orders for their Rada Cutlery represents who we are today. continue moving, one choice Griefshare Seminar Beginning at fundraiser and will continue throughout the year. The other represents who we at a time, toward the person Liberty Hill Mcconnell Memorial Baptist Church Contact JoAnn Hamby are capable of becoming. Imagine two portraits. we know we can become. And every time our actions come a Church Services Starting on Thursday, time during the 13 weeks. The at 706-781-4828 for more in- One is hanging on heaven’s little closer to that higher por- Liberty Hill Church, August 27, 2026 – November in-person sessions will meet formation; please leave a mes- wall. The other is walking trait, justice has been served in “A Little Church with a Big 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM – 12:30 in the Family Life Center at sage. NT(Aug12,Z2)CA around on earth. For Abraham more ways than one. The To- Heart”. We come together, ev- PM, McConnell Memorial McConnell Memorial Bap- and Moses, those portraits rah does not ask us to become ery Sunday morning at 11 a.m. Baptist Church in Hiawas- tist Church, Room 219. Cost Loving Church were nearly identical. Their someone else. It asks us to be- as a body of believers to wor- see, GA, located at 84 Church is $20 for the workbook and Blessed is our wonderful actions reflected their deepest come ourselves. ship Jesus. Street, will be hosting an in- scholarships are available. church, Day of Grace Baptist values. The people they were I wish you a good week We would love for you person interdenominational To register for this ses- Church, 269 Saw Mill Road. in practice matched the people and Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi to be part of our church fam- grief recovery program called sion, participants may go onto Offering a great message ev- they were in potential. Most of Yonatan Hambourger; y@ ily! Our church is located at, GriefShare. the GriefShare.org website ery Sunday; Sunday School us are still working on that. tasteoftorah.org. N(Aug12,Z8)CA 255 Liberty Hill Road, GA This program is a Bible- and under “Find a Session”, starts at 10 AM; Church Ser- Hwy. 515, just across the Fan- based program designed for click on Hiawassee, GA and vice at 11 AM. Please join us for God’s love that will stay in Fairview Baptist Thursday Night nin/Union County, GA Line. N(Aug12,Z2)CA men and women that have ex- perienced the loss of a family the icon for McConnell Me- morial Baptist and register, or your heart all week. N(Aug12,Z2)CA Church Services TV Church Service Mountain Everyone is invited to member, a loved one, or friend due to death. Participants will come to our first session and we will help you register. Providence You are invited to join tune in every Thursday eve- Presbyterian Food be with facilitators who un- For more information or Methodist us at Fairview Baptist Church ning to WGHC TV at 7 PM; also on Facebook; wotgtv. Pantry is open derstand their feelings of loss and have all experienced grief additional assistance, please call Chris at 706-896-2281, for a wonderful time of wor- The Ecumenical Food personally. church office at MMBC or you Church Services ship and fellowship. Sunday com/ ROKU channel to hear Evangelist Evelyn Adams car- Pantry at Mountain Presby- This is a 13-week semi- may contact the Program Di- Providence Method- school -10 AM; Worship ser- terian Church is open every rying the Gospel around the nar with each class being a rector, Kimberly Hales at 248ist Church, 3075 Pat Colwell vice - 11 AM; Evening service world. Prayer requests call Thursday from 9:30 AM to 1 stand alone session so that a 318-3286. We look forward to Road, Blairsville, GA 30512; - 6 PM. Address is 10 Fairview 706-671-7988. If Jesus speaks PM. We are once again open- person is welcome to join any- seeing you there! T(Aug12,A2)JT invites you to attend our Sun- Church Road. to your heart send any love of- ing our doors to the pantry day Church Service from 11 to Come and experience fering to P.O. Box 394, Fair- for people to come inside to Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group 12 and Sunday School from 10 the joy encouragement and mont, GA 30139. N(Aug12,Z1)CA fill their own boxes. We are to 11. located right next door to the call the Alzheimer’s Associa- presence of the Lord with us. We are a small country We look forward to welcom- Learn more Catholic Church in Blairsville. tion at 800-272-3900, access website at alz.org, or email church with a heritage of over Located at 3831 Hwy. 515 E. 191 years. Welcome one and ing you. about the Bible NT(Aug12,Z1)CA Volunteer Facilitator Harriet Rev. Tommy Jones The monthly meeting of Hoke at hhoke1234@gmail. all! N(Aug12,Z2)CA N(Aug12,Z2)CA Would you like to learn more about the Bible? Click on McConnell the Alzheimer’s Association com NT(Aug12,Z5)CA Celebrate Recovery - website and register for Free Hope Room Caregiver Support Group will be held Monday, August 17 at Bible Study! blairsvillebible. Bell Ringing Union A Christ-Centered Recovery Program worldbibleschool. org. Clothes Closet 1:30 PM at St. Clare’s Episco- County Old Courthouse Celebrate Recovery is a need to stop denying the pain, NT(Aug12,Z1)CA Stop by the McConnell pal Church, Parish Hall, 777 Ledford Road in Blairsville. Christ-centered recovery program that meets every Thurs- stop playing God, start admit- ting our powerlessness, and start The Church of Hope Room Clothes Closet to help us clear out our fall and Anyone involved in the day evening, 52 weeks a year. admitting that our lives have be- Jesus Christ of winter inventory…we need care of a loved one with any come unmanageable. We need a type of dementia is invited to It is a safe place for individuals to begin their journey of power greater than ourselves to Latter-day Saints tohavemake room for Spring! We clothes, shoes, and ac- attend and meet with other breaking free from all life's restore us and that Higher Pow- The Church of Jesus cessories for all ages, genders, caregivers. hurts, habits, and hang-ups. er is Jesus Christ! Christ of Latter-day Saints and sizes, infant to XXXL. Discover that others are "I know that nothing Meetings are held every meets weekly on Sundays at We have fresh inventory each also experiencing frustration, good lives in me, that is, in my Thursday evening in Build- 10 AM for Worship, 11 AM for week and all items are FREE. loneliness, exhaustion, and sinful nature. For I have the ing G, 7-9 PM, at First Bap- Sunday School, and 7 PM on Come and check us out, Tues- sometimes anger. Learn redesire to do what is good, but tist Church-Blairsville. If you Tuesdays for scripture study. days and Thursdays from sources available in this area I cannot carry it out" (Romans have any questions, email Please join us at 34 Rogers 1 – 3 PM. We would love to and how others are getting Bell ringing information 7:18). The power to change only crfbcb@windstream.net or Street in Blairsville. All are talk with you or pray for you! help for their loved one. at 706-745-5493 comes from God's grace. We call 706-781-6288. NT(Aug12,Z1)CA welcome to attend! NT(Aug12,Z2)CA T(Aug12,A1)JT For more information

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 11A NETTIE SUE ANN BUZZARD JOHN ELLIOTT ESAU “LORENE” WALKER Mrs. Sue Ann Buzzard, John Elliott Esau, age 88, Mrs. Nettie “Lorene” age 65, of Voyles Town Road, of Foxboro, MA, passed away Walker, 87, of Blue Door School Morganton, passed away peace- peacefully on May 23, 2026 fol- fully in the Union General Hospi- lowing a brief battle with glio- Road, Lenoir, NC, formerly of tal following a brief, unexpected blastoma. Blairsville, GA, passed away Born on February 7, 1938 peacefully at home on Friday, illness. Mrs. Buzzard was born on June 30, 1961 in Des Moines, in Boston, MA, John was the be- SCOTT RAYMOND LAYFIELD CRESWELL WAYNE VERNON PEEVY August 7, 2026, following an ex- loved son of the late Effie (Palm- Iowa, The daughter of Dixie Ann KINDRED JEFFERSON Wayne Vernon Peevy, of tended illness. Born November er) Esau and H. Murray Esau. He Hickman and the late James McCaysville, GA, passed away 20, 1938, in Blairsville, she was Robert Glenn. Sue was a loving spent his early years living in the Mr. Scott Raymond Kin- Mr. Layfield Creswell the daughter of the late William dred, age 71, of Cozy Cove Jefferson (“Jeff”), age 92, of peacefully on Saturday, August and caring wife, mother, sister Houghs Neck neighborhood of 1, 2026, at the age of 77. He was Zee Towe and Ruby Mae Carver and grandmother. She was very Quincy before his family relo- Road, Blairsville, passed away Thistle Lane, Hiawassee, passed Towe. Lorene enjoyed gardening, peacefully at his home on Thurs- away peacefully at his home on born on August 19, 1948, to the devoted to her family, which she cated to Hingham, MA. late Sydney “Ned” Peevy and quilting, crocheting and painting. cherished dearly. Sue was always In Hingham, John and day, August 6, 2026, surrounded Wednesday, August 5, 2026, fol- A devoted mother, sister, grandby his loving family follow- lowing a brief illness. Virginia Pauline Myers. Wayne loving, selfless, and willing to his 5 siblings enjoyed living on was a Vietnam veteran who mother, great-grandmother and help anyone. Sue attended An- a wooded property where they ing an extended illness. Scott Jeff was born on June 5, great-great-grandmother, she was born on March 22, 1955, in 1934, in Baltimore, Maryland. proudly served his country. He tioch Baptist Church. had horses and turkeys as well was honorably discharged and treasured time spent with family; Surviving Sue are lov- as many large gardens. This life- Hazleton, Pennsylvania, to the He was the son of the late Els- three generations of grandchillate Raymond Kindred and June worth Layfield Jefferson and the received the National Defense ing husband and best friend of style led to his lifelong love of Service Medal, Vietnam Service dren were the light of her life. At thirty-seven years, Jeffrey Buz- gardening and all things farm re- Bernstein Kindred. He dedicated late Kathryn Muriel Creswell Jefferson. A veteran of the United Medal, Combat Infantryman a young age, Lorene was saved at zard of Morganton; her mother, lated. He also loved cooking and his life to serving others as a Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. firefighter and flight paramedic States Army, Jeff was born and Badge, Purple Heart, and Bronze Dixie Hickman of Murphy, NC; dining out and was especially raised in Bel Air, Maryland, and Star Medal. He later retired from She was preceded in death her five children: Sarah Buz- fond of New England seafood. for many years. His life’s work by her husband, Randall Walker was centered on helping those in moved to Georgia in 1990 with Lucent Technologies. zard of Blairsville, Katie and After graduating from his beloved wife, Pamela. Wayne was of the Baptist (2010); son, Dale Walker (2019); Patrick Barrett of Canton, Amy Hingham High School, where he need, and he was deeply passion- brothers, William Harley Towe ate about his profession. Jeff was a loving and de- faith and loved old gospel music. Buzzard of Murphy, NC, Jef- was a member of the band, John voted father, grandfather, and He enjoyed being outdoors, cut- (1964) and James Towe (2024); frey, Jr. and Madeline Buzzard, proudly joined the Abington Fire Scott loved water sports, great-grandfather. He was an avid ting grass, working on things, fix- and sister Lillie Mae Jarvis of Morganton, Chad Buzzard of Department and moved to the spending time outdoors, and, above all else, being with his fan of the Atlanta Braves and the ing whatever needed fixing, and (2025). Palm Coast, FL; one sister and town where he raised his family. Atlanta Falcons. He was deeply feeding his deer. He was a big Survivors include her son, one brother-in-law, Kelli Jo and Following his retirement from the family. He also taught karate involved in his church, House sports enthusiast and especially Travis Arnold Walker; daugh- Cecil Hickman of Murphy, NC; fire department he moved south in Blairsville for several years, loved supporting his grandchilpositively impacting many lives of Prayer, where he faithfully ter and son-in-law, Kelly and six grandchildren: Mason, Kaia, to Tampa, Florida and later to served as a prayer deacon, vol- dren in their sports. Most of all, Leon Dalton; sisters, Wilma Sto- Olivia, Oaklen, Oliver, and Lila; the mountains of Blairsville, GA through his instruction and men- Wayne loved his family and his torship. In addition to his parents, unteered countless hours in many ver and Ruth (Radar) Reynard; and several nieces and nephews; where he remained until 2023. aspects of the church, welcomed animals. brother, Paul Towe; and sister- many other relatives and friends In Blairsville he enjoyed Scott was preceded in death by He was a loving husband, his brother, Keith Kindred, and missionaries into his home, and in-law, Sheila Towe. She is also also survive. singing in the choir at Coosa never missed a week serving at daddy, grandfather, brother, and survived by four grandchildren: A memorial service will Methodist Church and also loved his sister, Robin Heelan. uncle. If you knew Wayne, you Scott was a loving and the church’s Soup Kitchen. Travis J. Walker, Chelsea Walker, be held at a later date and will utilizing his extensive wood- He was preceded in death couldn’t help but love him. He Prairie Dalton and Micah Dalton; be announced. In lieu of flowers working skills to make potting devoted husband, father, brother, had a contagious laugh and a grandfather, and friend whose by his beloved wife, Pamela Jean two great-grandchildren, Ady- if you wish, the family requests tables and other items to sell at Lovell Jefferson, in 2011; his beautiful smile that will never son Walker and Sevin Skinner; that donations may be made to their church fairs. As his health kindness and dedication to others be forgotten. His family and all will be remembered by all who daughter, Julie McFillin, in 2022; a great-great-grandchild, Joanna help defray expenses in Mrs. began to decline, he moved to who knew him will greatly miss Smithy; and several nieces, neph- Buzzard’s memory. Foxboro, MA where he spent the knew him. his son and daughter-in-law, his presence, his laughter, and the ews, other relatives and many last 3 years of his life. He is survived by his lov- Keith and Shirley Jefferson, in Mountain View Funeral love he so freely gave. Wayne is friends. He is survived by his chiling wife and best friend of 30 2020; and his sister, Joan Tuthill. preceded in death by his parents, Home of Blairsville is in charge years, Kelli Christian Kindred Jeff is survived by his son Funeral services were held of the arrangements. You may dren: Justine (Esau) McKinney Sydney “Ned” Peevy and Virgin- Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 2 p.m. and her husband, James McKinof Blairsville; one daughter and and daughter-in-law, Scott and ia Pauline Myers Peevy; and his sign the family guest book and son-in-law, Megan and Jerry Joyce Jefferson of Hiawassee, at Mountain View Chapel with send condolences online at www. ney, Russell Esau and his wife, son, Micah Peevy. Laurie (Williams) Esau, Scott Reynolds of Jacksonville, Flor- GA and Bel Air, MD; four grand- He is survived by his lov- Rev. Jerry Helton and Rev. Junior mountainviewfuneralhome.com. ida; two sons and one daughter- children: Tina Jefferson, Emily Towe officiating. Special music Esau and his husband, Robert ing wife, Toni Miller-Peevy; Schwartz; his grandchildren: in-law, Tyler and Brittany Mes- Jefferson, Andrew Jefferson and daughter, Mamie (Mark) Thom- was provided by Lori and Anna senger of Bardstown, Kentucky, his wife, Maya and Abigail Rose Patterson. Pallbearers were: Timothy Esau, Jennifer Esau, as; son, Daniel (Jennifer) Peevy; Kimberly Esau, Christopher and Sean Messenger of Blairs- McFillin; four great-grandchil- grandchildren, Lawson Peevy Travis A. Walker, Leon Dalton, ville; one sister and brother-in- dren: Quinn, Averie, Avynn, and Travis J. Walker, Micah Dal- Esau, James McKinney and and Sydni Thomas; sisters, Jan- Madeleine McKinney as well as law, Karen and Mark Sweenie of Myles Isaiah; his closest friend, ice (Bill) Kelley and Glenda (Bil- ton, Marty Ledford and Johnny Blairsville; three grandchildren, Marie Hancock; and his beloved Walker. Interment followed in the several great grandchildren; his lie) O’Brien; and several nieces, Maya, Jacob, and Brodie; one dog, Trudy. nephews, and great-nieces and Walker Family Cemetery beside sisters: Lee Kalns, Virginia Esau, great-grandchild, Stetson Lee; A Celebration of Jeff’s nephews. her husband, Randall. The family Joan Maxon and Dorothy Lutteralong with several nieces, neph- Life was held on Sunday, August Wayne leaves behind a received friends at Mountain baugh; and his longtime companews, many other relatives, and 9, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at House lifetime of memories and a fam- View Funeral Home of Blairs- ion, Lynne Smith. He was precountless friends. of Prayer Church in Blairsville, ily who loved him dearly. His ville on Sunday from 12–2 p.m. ceded in death by his first wife, In accordance with Scott’s with Rev. Jeff Olver officiating. life was a blessing, his memory Mountain View Funeral Justine Ripley; second wife, Jean wishes, no services are planned. A luncheon followed the service. a treasure, and he will be deeply Home is handling arrangements. (MacLeay) Esau; daughter, Amy In lieu of flowers, the family re- In lieu of flowers, the family re- missed by all who had the privi- Condolences and the guestbook Oliveira; son, Kenneth Oliveira; quests that memorial donations quests that memorial donations lege of knowing and loving him. are available online at www. and brother, Palmer Esau. be made to the Amyloidosis be made to the House of Prayer Funeral services were held mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Family and friends are Foundation in Scott’s memory. Soup Kitchen in Jeff’s memory. VICKI LYN SCRUGGS kindly invited to attend a service on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Mountain View Funeral Mountain View Funeral 1 PM at the Mountain View Cha- Vicki Lyn Scruggs, age celebrating John’s life on Tues- Home of Blairsville is in charge Home of Blairsville is in charge pel with Rev. Mark Alexander 74, of Hiawassee went to be with day August 18, 2026, at 2 PM of the arrangements. Online con- of the arrangements. You may and Rev. Bryan Ahrens officiat- her Lord and Savior on August 5, at Coosa Methodist Church, 767 dolences may be shared with the sign the family guest book and ing. Special music was presented 2026. Vicki was born October 26, Mulky Gap Road, Blairsville, GA family at www.mountainviewfu- send condolences online at www. by Julie Payne, Angie Kelley, 1951 in Sugar Hill, GA to Thur- 30512. neralhome.com. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Kayla Lovell and Gloria Griggs. man and Vernell Carlyle. Vicki The following gentlemen served was a proud mother and grand- Free Bible studies as pallbearers: Daniel Peevy, mother who cherished her fam- The Eastside Church of Lawson Peevy, Jason Kelley, ily. She was a godly woman who Christ, Morganton, GA is of- Micky Miller, Jr., Mark Thomas loved the Lord. Vicki worked for and Brad Thomas. Interment fol- many years as an office manager fering free Bible studies. You lowed in the Mt. Pleasant Baptist at Landtech. In her free time, may request either mail cor- Church Cemetery. The North Vicki loved to read a good book respondence or one-on-one. Georgia Honor Guard conducted or spend her time traveling. She Please call 706-374-3262 for Military Honors. The family met will be deeply missed by all of more information. N(Aug12,Z1)CA with friends at the funeral home those who knew and loved her. Question: Are you guys drawings, Whether you are a planning on having a golf tour- seasoned golfer or simply en- on Tuesday evening from 6-8 PM. BARRY NELSON WOODY She is preceded in death by her parents, Thurman and New Grief Mr. Barry Nelson Woody, nament this year? If so, what are the details? joy a day on the course for a good cause, this tournament is Mountain View Funeral age 69, of Blue Ridge Hwy., Vernell; husband, Dan Scruggs; Support Group Home of Blairsville is in charge Blairsville, formerly of Demor- brother, Tommy Carlyle, and sis- Answer: Yes! WEC a great opportunity to get in- of the arrangements. You may ter, Brenda Johnson. She is sur- Angling in Grief Sup- est, GA, passed away peacefully Family Resources will host the volved. sign the family guest book and on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 vived by her sons, Chris Johnson port is starting a new grief 2026 Golf “Fore” the Babies Prizes will be awarded send condolences online at www. in the Northeast Georgia Medi- of Buford, GA, and Blake and group in the Blue Ridge area tournament on Saturday, Sep- to the top three teams: $500 mounntainviewfuneralhome. cal Center following a brief ill- Courtney Nash of Savannah, GA; for adults who have experitember 26, 2026, at Chatuge for 1st place, $300 for 2nd com. ness. Mr. Woody was born on daughters, Stephanie (Dennis) enced loss. The group uses fly Shores Golf Course in Hayes- place and $200 for 3rd place. April 25, 1957 in Andrews, NC, Hodges of Pleasant Shade, TN, fishing and fly tying as tools ville, NC. Check-in begins at Sponsorship opportunities are Welcoming Light the son of the late William Henry Jodie Johnson of Hiawassee, GA, and Jodi Goodwin of Hiawassee, for connection, reflection, and 8:15 AM, with Tee Off at 9 also available for businesses, Woody and the late Wanda Car- healing. No fishing experience A Non-Denominational rie McClure Woody. Barry was a GA, twelve grandchildren and is necessary. All gear is pro- AM. This annual event is a fun churches and individuals who Church in Blairsville. Please loving and caring father, brother many great great grandchildren. vided. way for golfers, sponsors and want to help make the event join us Sundays for Worship Visitation was held on community members to come a success. Sponsorship lev- and grandfather. He enjoyed run- Meetings will be held at 9 AM at G & G Bakery ning and participating in Mara- Sunday, August 9, 2026 12 PM together in support of families els include Gold for $1,000, 2 PM at Banister-Cooper Funeral the third Thursday of each and Cafe and Wednesdays thons, cross country, listening to month at First Baptist Church in our area. Silver for $500, Bronze for at 6 PM for Bible Study and Home. Registration will be $225, and hole sponsorships music and old cars. He worked Blue Ridge (907 E Main potluck dinner also at G & G at Dusty’s Rhodes Superette for Funeral was held on Sunopen until September 10. The for $125 for one hole or $225 Bakery and Cafe. Our website day, August 9, 2026 at 2 PM at Street, Blue Ridge, GA). Free several years. They treated him cost is $100 per individual for two holes. For more infor- is www.WelcomingLight.org like their family. He was pre- Banister-Cooper Funeral Home. to attend. Open to the public. player or $400 for a 4-man mation call 706-745-7518 or where you can learn about our ceded in death by his parents Banister-Cooper is in To learn more or sign team. Players can look for- visit wecfamilyresources.org/ and also two brothers, Danny Ar- charge of arrangements for Mrs. up, visit [www.anglingingrief. Mission, Vision and Beliefs. Scruggs. ward to lunch, swag bags, and events. NT(Aug12,Z5)CA N(Aug12,Z2)CA rowood and Homer Arrowood. org]. N(Aug12,Z2)CA Barry attended Shinning Light Baptist Church. Surviving Barry are his MOUNTAIN VIEW FUNERAL beloved sister-in-law, Millie Ar- rowood of Blairsville; one son, HOME & CREMATORY Zachary Woody of Charleston, SC; one daughter and son-in- law, Erin and Jon Allen of Bir- Blairsville 706-745-2156 / Hiawassee 706-896-6000 Murphy 828-837-9599 / Blue Ridge 706-632-5968 DISTINCTIVE SERVICE AT MODERATE COST mingham, AL; one brother and McCaysville 706-492-3321 Mountain View Funeral Home & Crematory sister-in-law, Marvin and Cheryl was built to Honor our Lord, Jesus Christ Woody of Young Harris; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Celebrating Life & Treasuring Every Memory Before building Mountain View Funeral Home, we made a Elaine and Charlie Trulove of commitment to God, our family, friends and community to lower Blairsville, Brenda Harwood of Raymond Vincent Leasure Charlie Lawson Wolfe funeral prices and be the most reasonable funeral home in the area, Blairsville; one grandchild, Kal- 08/02/2026 08/02/2026 ynn; several nieces, nephews, while providing quality merchandise and distinctive service. We many other relatives and friends Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel also survive. promise to keep this commitment, and our prices will be the lowest The family met with Rev. Bernie Edward Dixon Joan Virginia Parker friends at the Mountain View Fu- in the tri-state area, no matter what the cost... Guaranteed. Please neral Home on Sunday, August 9, 07/30/2026 08/05/2026 feel free to call or come by and compare prices and quality. 2026 from 5-7 PM. A Celebration Murphy Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel of Barry’s life was held on Mon- Charles and Benny day, August 10, 2026 at 2 PM at Christiane Sinkovich Alfred James Mutchler the Shining Light Baptist Church No Additional Charge for use of our chapel for funeral services with Pastor Tim Mason officiat- 08/04/2026 07/31/2026 No Charge for register book • No Charge for acknowledgement cards ing. A eulogy was given by Lee Murphy Chapel McCaysville Chapel No Additional Charge for more than one night visitations Cothren. Flowers are accepted or No Charge for local hospital or home removals. if you wish, the family requests that donations may be made to Joy Burdette Conley Betty Marie Helton Dignified Service to All, Regardless of Financial Situations. the American Cancer Society Re- 08/04/2026 08/05/2026 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY BENNY ERWIN AND CHARLES LONG search in Barry’s memory. Mountain View Funeral Murphy Chapel McCaysville Chapel OVER 57 YEARS EXPERIENCE Home of Blairsville is in charge 119 Murphy Hwy. • Blairsville, GA• (706) 745-3456 N(Dec17,2003ufnB) 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.

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3DJH$7+(1257+*(25*,$1(:6$XJXVW (GXFDWLRQ´%DFNLQWKH'DµZLWK.DWKOHHQ&RRN housed a Methodist Church the younger children, while Kathleen traveled by bus Supply, and 9th District Op- from the late 1800s until the upper grades had wooden to Union County Junior High portunity. The Head Start Pro- about 1928 when it became desks also. Unlike most of the in 1955 to attend 8th grade. gram is now housed in the Pri- a county school. Most of the country schools, Ivy Log had a After high school, she began mary School. early schoolhouses were used partition down the center of the to take college classes through Kathleen Cook has seen for church meetings. Religion room. One side was grades 1st Truett McConnell. At that a lifetime of changes in edu- ZDV D SUHGRPLQDQW LQÁXHQFH to 3rd, and the other side was time, professors from area col- cation! She will be 83 years on the curriculum in the early 4th to 7th grades. The families leges traveled over the moun- old in October! She made period of this country. The as- took turns supplying wood for tain to hold classes. Kathleen many lifetime friends, start- signment of the teacher in a the two stoves, and the boys HDUQHG D FHUWLÀFDWH LQ (DUO ing in a one-room schoolhouse multigrade classroom was to had to chop the wood during Childhood Education. With a through to the early days of teach from 8 to 10 hours per recess. The children brought small team of teachers in the Union County High School. day with an emphasis on or- their lunch in tin pails and wa- HDUO  V WKH ÀUVW +HDG Kathleen touched hundreds thography, reading, writing, ter was supplied by the nearby Start Program was started in of young lives as a teacher, English grammar, geography, spring. Lunch consisted of Union County. Several local and she continues to mold and and arithmetic. Kathleen stat- leftovers from the evening businesses were very gener- impress the lives of her grand- ed that school usually began meal: cornbread with syrup ous in supplying students’ and children, great grandchildren, in mid-September because and butter or homegrown meat teachers’ needs including Ms. and those around her. She is everyone was busy harvesting RQEUHDG7KHJLUOVZRUHÁRXU Betty Collins of Collins Dry a testament to what a strong, the crops. She recalls walking sack dresses lovingly sewn by Goods, Georgia Boot Shoe determined Georgia mountain barefooted during the warm industrious mothers. Factory, Union Hardware & woman can do! months with a group of chil- dren. When Kathleen turned six years old, she attended Ivy Log School. She remembers Kathleen Cook in School Room fondly Miss Corrine Deaver By Jayne Jones, ing from 25 to 55. There was and Mr. Elmer Thompon. Miss Union County no electricity or running water. Deaver taught the younger Historical Society Most of the children walked students, and Mr. Thompson This time of the year to school, some as far as three drove the bus and taught the causes us to reminisce about miles. Textbooks were in short older students. She said that our own school years’ ex- supply, and the Blue Back the parents supplied their penperiences. In Union County Speller was a staple in every cils and paper tablets, which around 1915, there were 43 classroom. the students shared with those separate elementary schools, Historical Society mem- less fortunate. The school had JUDGHV ÀUVW WKURXJK VHYHQWK ber Kathleen Cook attended a chalkboard, which originaland one high school in the Pleasant Hill School, also ly consisted of wood planks county. Those elementary known as Pea Ridge School, painted black. Homemade schools had enrollments rang- DV D ÀYHHDUROG 3HD 5LGJH wooden benches were for %HWD(SVLORQSUHVHQWV+DOH%HUURQJ )XWXUH.H:RPDQ(GXFDWRU6FKRODUVKLS Beta Epsilon President Haley Dyer and Past President Susie Brendle presented Haley Berrong with the Future Key Woman Educator Scholarship on July 22, 2026. Ms. Berrong is entering her senior year at the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega majoring in education. She resides in Towns County and plans to graduate in the Spring of 2027 and use her degree to teach in her hometown. Beta Epsilon wishes Haley a successful school year, graduation, and career in education. This scholarship is awarded to a Key Woman Educator who has demonstrated %('.*6FKRODUVKLS:LQQHU+DOH%HUURQJ FHQWHU high academic achievement, orary organization of women aspects of educational, comleadership experience, in- educators. munity, and society work involvement in extracurricular The Beta Epsilon Chap- cluding this yearly scholarship activities, and community or ter was organized on May 25, for future women educators; civic involvement. Beta Epsi- 1963 in Blairsville, Georgia donations to Fannin, Towns lon is a Chapter of Delta Kap- and currently includes mem- & Union Family Connections; pa Gamma’s Georgia State bers from Fannin, Towns and and donations to UNICEF, Organization. DKG Interna- Union Counties. The group Schools for Africa, and Intertional is a professional hon- has been involved in many national World Fellowship. BLAIRSVILLE UNION COUNTY NORTH GEORGIA PHASE ONE NOW RESERVING L AT E 2 0 2 6 T H E T E R R A C E S T O W N H O M E S For Sale FROM THE A walk to the square. A lifetime in the mountains. LOW $400'S A small, considered community of fifty-seven townhomes within walking distance to the Blairsville town square. Take a short drive to the lakes, rivers and the many trails these mountains are known for. Experience the beautiful scenery before enjoying a quiet evening at home. ONL< 57 TOWNHOMES PHASE ONE · R E S E R VAT I O N S O P E N · L AT E 2 0 2 6 I. T H E T O W N II. T H E L I F E III. T H E B U I L D Coffee on the square. Lock up. Go play. Built once. Built right. An easy walk to the courthouse green, the bakery No lawn to cut or leaves to rake. Spend your 2 x 6 framing. James Hardie siding. Metal and the town bookshop. Enjoy lunch and dinner time camping at Vogel State Park, boating on roofing. An insured ten year structural warranty. at the local restaurants, and weekend concerts on Lake Nottely, or hiking your favorite trails. All the highest standards a Georgia mountain the lawn. Come home to relax, not a list of home home should be held to. maintenance chores. Reserve your place before the rest of Blairsville does. THETERRACESTOWNHOMES.COM TOWNHOMES FROM THE LOW $400'S 7 0 6 . 4 0 7 . 4 111 · A LEDGERLIVING COMMUNITY LEARN MORE

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 1B 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! PAID ADVERTISEMENT Bert Rogers

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Sports Page 2B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 See the Sports Section at nganews.com Panthers roll past Hayesville 58-7 in scrimmage Union County hosts Fannin County Aug. 21 in season opener By Todd Forrest D VHYHQSOD GULYH )UHVKPDQ Sports Editor Owen LaPorte added the extra sports@nganews.com SRLQWWRPDNHLW Stowe also chalked up much of Friday’s success in For Union County head the running game to his young coach Rob Stowe, Friday’s offensive line, which will lean football scrimmage against heavily on freshmen this year. Hayesville, North Carolina, “We had a few early checked nearly every box. busts and they made a few The Panthers dominated freshman mistakes,” he said. IURP VWDUW WR ÀQLVK LQ D  “We corrected them, and once victory and, perhaps most we did, they really opened up importantly, came out of the the run game for us. They are WXQHXSJDPHZLWKRXWDQDG young, but they are coachable, ditional injuries. and that’s all you can ask.” Already without injured Now the Panthers will senior running back Bentley focus on the season opener at Rich and junior defensive back home against Fannin County Hudson Collins until sometime on Aug. 21. The Rebels are in October, the Panthers also XQGHU WKH GLUHFWLRQ RI ILUVW held out junior wide receiver year head coach David Nich Mikey Davis and limited senior ols, who came to Blue Ridge WR/DB Chetley Cox to just by way of Lumpkin County, two series against Hayesville. where he served as defensive While Stowe expects Cox and coordinator. Davis to be ready for Fannin “We’re under the as County on Aug. 21, he was sumption that the new coach most pleased to leave Friday’s ZLOO EH D GHIHQVLYHPLQGHG scrimmage without any further guy, but we’re going to see setbacks. what they do this Friday night “That was the best part 6RSKRPRUHUXQQLQJEDFN.ULV.UDIWKDGDELJJDPHÀOOLQJLQIRUWKH 6HQLRU%UDQGRQ/QFKWDNHVWKHÀHOGRQ)ULGD/DWHUKHZRXOGVFRUHD in their scrimmage game at of the whole night,” he said. injured Bentley Rich. Photo/Todd Forrest rushing TD and record a safety. Photo/Todd Forrest Andrews (North Carolina),” “It was good to get Chetley out punt, Union County extended entering the break. immediately. Freshman run this summer, especially at the Stowe said. “Fannin County WKHUHVRPH<RXFDQGHÀQLWHO its lead when sophomore run “We just went in want ning back Karson Wester Rabun camp. Karson went in has the same offensive coordi tell that he’s a guy we’re going ning back Kris Kraft scored ing to play our game,” Stowe VFRUHGRQDDUGWRXFKGRZQ there and ran well too (against nator as last year, so we assume to need this year. We just hope RQ D  DUG WRXFKGRZQ UXQ said. “We don’t care who the UXQDIWHUDVHYHQSODDUG Hayesville), so that’s very they’ll be similar on that side to have as many guys as close IROORZLQJ D VHYHQSOD  competition is, we’re going to drive, with Jordan’s third PAT pleasing to have three guys of the ball.” to 100% as we can heading to yard drive. play the game to our standards. H[WHQGLQJWKHOHDGWR that can bridge the gap until Stowe said he plans to next Friday against Fannin.” The Panthers continued And I was pleased with that. “It’s almost like we have Bentley gets back.” give his team a short week of Union wasted little time their offensive onslaught on the Sometimes games like that can three carbon copies at running After another Hayesville practice before Fannin County taking control on Friday, scor next possession, needing only get sloppy, but we didn’t let back,” Stowe said. “(Kraft, punt, Union County closed preparation begins next week. ing on its opening possession WZRSODVWRFRYHU DUGVDV that happen.” /QFKDQG:HVWHU DUHDOORQH the scoring when freshman “We want to give them a when Brandon Lynch, replac Kendrick found Sean Rosa on +DHVYLOOHÀQDOOJRWRQ cut, downhill backs that like to quarterback Joe Moses scored long weekend so the guys come LQJ5LFKLQWKHEDFNÀHOGEURNH D VKRUW VLGHOLQH SDVV RQ QG the scoreboard to open the third run hard. We could have given RQ D DUG WRXFKGRZQ UXQ back in next Monday ready to loose on the right side for a DQG DOORZLQJ KLV MXQLRU TXDUWHU VFRULQJ RQ D DUG Lynch a few more carries, but SXWWLQJWKHÀQLVKLQJWRXFKHVRQ go,” he said. DUGWRXFKGRZQUXQWRFDSD receiver to outrun the defense WRXFKGRZQUXQWRFDSDQLQH we wanted to be smart and IRXUSODDUGGULYH*UDQW IRU D DUG WRXFKGRZQ DQG SODDUGGULYHFXWWLQJWKH not risk an injury. But that Old Union Women’s Golf Association: 6PLWKDGGHGWKHÀUVWRIKLVIRXU DOHDGDIWHURQHTXDUWHU GHÀFLWWR enabled Kris to do what we 3$7VIRUDOHDG “We’ve got some fast The Panthers answered knew he could do. We saw that Game of the Week was Odds & Evens The Panthers’ defense receivers that run really well,” 0LOHV DQG *OHQGD *HGGLQJV WKHQIRUFHGDWKUHHDQGRXWEH Stowe said. “If we can get each recorded one Skin. Bird fore Union County was forced those guys the ball in space, ies were made by Kalyn Kight, to punt on its next possession, they can make people miss, and Rachelle Cronje, Paula Strat pinning the Yellow Jackets they did, and they made some WRQDQG*OHQGD*HGGLQJVZLWK LQVLGH WKHLU RZQ DUG OLQH big plays. We also feel like each lady carding one during and setting up Lynch’s second Thompson and Jax Dillinger the round. The total purse al score of the night. On second are going to be a weapon in the The Old Union Wom ORFDWHGZDV down, Lynch blitzed from the passing game for us. HQ·V *ROI$VVRFLDWLRQ PHW RQ As always, the score linebacker spot and sacked the “And Kamden has gotten Monday, August 3, at the Old cards tell only part of the story. quarterback for a safety, push so much better over the last 8QLRQ *ROI &RXUVH IRU DQ Every Monday is a opportu LQJWKHDGYDQWDJHWR  year. He reads coverages really other day of golf, friendship nity for these wonderful ladies “I felt like the defense well and he can be a headache and fun. The game of the week to enjoy friendly competition, passed the test on Friday night, for defenses with his legs, and was Odds and Evens. Players plenty of laughter and the spe but it’s still hard to tell how I think it’s pretty clear that counted only the odd num cial friendships that make the bered holes on the front nine 2OG8QLRQ:RPHQ·V*ROI$V good we are because of Hayes Kamden has gotten a whole and the even numbered holes sociation such a welcoming ville’s mistakes,” Stowe said. lot faster.” on the back nine. As always, group. Whether celebrating a “But we came out of it playing Union County added two WKHORZHVWVFRUHLQHDFKÁLJKW great shot, encouraging one about as well as we could have more touchdowns in the second claimed the victory. DQRWKHUDIWHUDGLIÀFXOWKROHRU defensively.” quarter. Kendrick connected Congratulations to all simply enjoying the beautiful Union County added ZLWK5RE7KRPSVRQIRUD WKH ZLQQHUV )OLJKW $  ÀUVW day together, the camaraderie another touchdown on its next DUG VFRUH WR FDS D VL[SOD place was Rachelle Cronje among these golfers is what possession when Kamden DUG GULYH WKHQ IRXQG WKH Junior linebacker Micah Wallace (27) leads the Purple Swarm as they ZUDSXSWKH+DHVYLOOHEDOOFDUULHULQWKHEDFNÀHOG3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW and second place went to Ka makes each week so memo Kendrick connected with Sir HQG]RQHKLPVHOIRQD DUG OQ.LJKW)OLJKW% ÀUVWSODFH rable. 7KRPSVRQIRUDDUGVFRUH NHHSHU FDSSLQJ D VL[SOD ZLQQHU ZDV *OHQGD *HGGLQJV Following the round, FDSSLQJ D VL[SOD DUG DUG GULYH 6RSKRPRUH and second place went to the ladies gathered at Monte drive. Christian Jordan added both 1DQF 2XWODZ )OLJKW &  ÀUVW Alban to enjoy delicious Mex After another Hayesville H[WUD SRLQWV WR PDNH LW  SODFH ZLQQHU ZDV *DLO &ROH ican food, lots of laughter and and second place winner was wonderful fellowship...the &RQQLH /HLSV )OLJKW '  ÀUVW perfect ending to another ter place winner was Betsy Hyde ULÀFGDRQWKHJROIFRXUVH and second place winner was Anyone interested in &RQQLH'RFNH)OLJKW( ÀUVW joining this fun loving group place winner was Linda Miles of lady golfers may call Karen and second place winner was 0XVVROLQH DW  Paula Stratton. RU&QWKLD3DQWHUDW In the Bell Flight, the  sole winner was Pat Strick land. Congratulations also go RXW WR RXU RXWVWDQGLQJ FKLS Mountain High in winners: Kathie McAfee, Hikers Schedule Mary Tribble, Rachelle Cron Mountain High Hikers je, Paula Stratton, Pat Strick offers three hikes in the local land and Annie Feinman. DUHD HDFK ZHHN  7XHVGDV  D 7KH &ORVHWRWKH+ROH ORQJKLNHIURPPLOHVDQG contest on hole 13 was won by D VKRUWHU KLNH RI  PLOHV *OHQGD *HGGLQJV ZKR HDUQHG Thursday we lead a leisure DJLIWFDUGDWWKHSURVKRS KLNH XVXDOO DURXQG  PLOHV or a free round of golf. We also maintain over 100 The Bell Tees Skins win PLOHV RI WUDLOV LQ 1RUWK *HRU ners were Kathleen Bolin with gia and Western NC area and eight Skins and Pat Strickland run trail maintenance hikes with four Skins. From the red on Thursdays each week. For 6HDQ5RVD  DQG6LU7KRPSVRQ  FHOHEUDWH5RVD·VÀUVWTXDUWHU7' Chetley Cox (8) was limited on Friday due to a prior injury, but Coach tees, Betsy Hyde, Mary Trib more info visit www.moun Thompson added a receiving TD earlier in the game. Photo/Todd Forrest Stowe was thankful the senior could get a few reps. Photo/Todd Forrest ble, Rachelle Cronje, Linda tainhighhikers.org. 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

Page 15

August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3B Panthers overcome Franklin County to highlight 5-2 start By Todd Forrest up two and sophomore Evyn Sports Editor Davis had one. Union’s second loss of sports@nganews.com WKHGDFDPHWR(DVW3DXOG LQJEVFRUHVRI Union County volleyball DQG  6DXHUV ILQLVKHG FRQFOXGHGLWVÀUVWZHHNRI ZLWK D WHDPKLJK VHYHQ NLOOV  ZLWKDPDUNEHJLQQLQJZLWK Brown had herself a day with a major statement win at home  DVVLVWV  GLJV DQG IRXU on opening night by rallying to aces — all team highs — while defeat Franklin County in three Sosensky and Ekeberg added VHWVRQ$XJ one block apiece. Later in the evening, the Foster and Beal ended Panthers won in straight sets the match with six kills, Eke RYHU *LOPHU EHIRUH WUDYHOLQJ berg had three, Brown had two WR :RRGVWRFN IRU ÀYH JDPHV and Sosensky finished with 6DWXUGD ZKHUH WKH ÀQLVKHG one. Sosensky, Davis and Sau WKHGDDJDLQVWODUJHUFRP ers also contributed one assist, petition. Union defeated Class while Combs added 13 digs. $·V 6SUDEHUU DQG &HQWHQ The Panthers got back QLDO ERWK E  VFRUHV 7KH on track by routing Woodstock 3DQWKHUVDOVRWRRNDYLFWRU   LQWKHIRXUWK RYHU&ODVV$:RRGVWRFN outing of the day. Sosensky had The two losses came at four kills, Beal and Ekeberg WKHKDQGVRI&ODVV$:KHHOHU logged three each, Sauers and  DQG&ODVV$(DVW3DXOG )RVWHUERWKÀQLVKHGZLWKWZR LQJ   and Price had one. The Panthers were back Brown had seven aces, in action Monday at Pickens while Davis and Sauers went to face the host Dragons and for three apiece. Ekeberg, Fos Adairsville. They visit Rabun ter and Beal each ended with County on Tuesday against Ste 6RSKRPRUH.DPUQ%URZQ  VHWVXSVHQLRU6RÀD)RVWHUDWWKHQHWGXU- Junior Emry Sosensky attacks the net against Franklin County. Through one block. Sauers recorded phens County and the Wildcats. ing Union’s win over Franklin County. Photo/Todd Forrest seven matches, she leads the team with 34 kills. Photo/Todd Forrest seven digs, and Brown handed On Thursday, Union County mryn Brown and Amie Sauers ZLWK D WHDPKLJK VHYHQ NLOOV EHIRUH *LOPHU FODZHG LWV ZD thers with seven kills, Brown out 10 assists. travels to Fannin County to VSDUNHGWKHUDOO6HQLRU6RÀD %URZQ DGGHG VL[ NLOOV DQG  WRZLWKLQEXWNLOOVIURP ILQLVKHG ZLWK  DVVLVWV DQG ,Q 6DWXUGD·V ÀQDO FRQ meet the Rebels and Coosa. )RVWHUHYHQHGWKHVFRUHDW assists. Sosensky and Beal each Sosensky and Ekeberg, fol three aces, Hedden also had test, Union County easily took Panthers 2, Franklin 12, and junior Emry Sosensky KDGÀYHNLOOV6DXHUVKDGIRXU lowed by a Combs ace, put the three aces, Ekeberg blocked down Centennial by scores of County 1 (22-25, 25-23, 15- recorded the next point, hand and Ekeberg added three. Sau contest out of reach. ÀYH DWWHPSWV DQG &RPEV KDG  DQG  )RVWHU DQG 13) — In a contest between LQJ 8QLRQ LWV ÀUVW OHDG RI WKH ers and Samantha Combs led ,QWKHÀQDOHWKH3DQWKHUV 11 digs. Sosensky both finished with two programs with Class 3A set. the way with two aces apiece, OHGDQG EHIRUH Beal, Ekeberg and Foster D PDWFKKLJK VL[ NLOOV ZLWK state title aspirations, Union The Panthers built an while Combs’ 13 digs also the Bobcats made a push to HDFK ORJJHG ÀYH NLOOV %URZQ Foster picking up two blocks. &RXQW RYHUFDPH D ILUVWVHW  PDUJLQ EHIRUH )UDQNOLQ marked a team high. JHWZLWKLQEXWWKHUDOO had three, Sauers added two Brown led the Panthers loss, then stormed ahead of the UDWWOHGRIIÀYHVWUDLJKWSRLQWV Panthers 2, Gilmer 0 TXLFNOÀ]]OHGDVWZRDFHVIURP and sophomore Lyla Price had in three categories, notching /LRQVDIWHUIDOOLQJEHKLQG but two kills from Foster and (25-19, 25-17) — Union Coun Hedden helped Union blow one. Sosensky picked up one 13 assists, eight aces and four in the second set before holding another by Sosensky put Union WÀQLVKHGRIILWVRSHQLQJQLJKW WKLQJVRSHQDW ace, while Brown and Foster digs. Beal, Brown, Sauers and on following a dominant start back in front to stay. WULPDWFKEWDNLQJGRZQ&ODVV Foster and Beal ended both had a block. (NHEHUJ DOO ÀQLVKHG ZLWK WZR to the third. In the deciding set, Emile $*LOPHUQHYHUWUDLOLQJLQWKH with four kills, Brown had three ,QWKHORVVWR:KHHOHU kills. Hedden chipped in one 7KHÀUVWVHWRSHQHGZLWK Ekeberg and Foster sparked WZRVHWYLFWRU and Ekeberg chipped in two.   6RVHQVNZHQW kill and two aces. D EDFNDQGIRUWK EDWWOH ZLWK D  DGYDQWDJH WKHQ 8QLRQ Sosensky and Sauers Sauers had three aces, Sosensky for six kills and a block, Sauers Davis, Sauers and Combs 8QLRQ·VÀQDODGYDQWDJHFRPLQJ PDLQWDLQHGLWVIRXUSRLQWFXVK OHGWKH3DQWKHUVZLWKÀYHNLOOV ÀQLVKHG ZLWK WZR DQG &RPEV led the way with three aces, all picked up aces in the win. DW /DWHUGRZQWKH LRQDWWKDQNVLQODUJHSDUW each, senior Blaire Hedden recorded one. Foster notched Brown recorded 11 assists and Sosensky and sophomore Bree Panthers bounced back to knot to a pair of aces from Sauers. logged four aces, Beal had three two blocks, while Brown and Combs had 10 digs. Foster *DOORZDEORFNHGDVKRWZKLOH WKHVFRUHDWEXW)UDQNOLQ After Franklin moved to within EORFNV &RPEV ÀQLVKHG ZLWK Ekeberg had one apiece. DOVR ÀQLVKHG ZLWK RQH EORFN Combs, Sauers and Sosensky TXLFNORSHQHGOHDGVRI D SRLQW DW  6RVHQVN eight digs and Brown dished Saturday wrap-up — in the loss. had three digs each. DQG   WR JUDE D RQHVHW delivered a timely point, then RXWDQRWKHUDVVLVWV Union County’s weekend at Sauers and Ekeberg Up next: Tuesday’s cushion. came through again, ending Union seized an early :RRGVWRFNRSHQHGZLWKD picked up three kills each, games at Rabun get underway Franklin built an early the match with the Panthers OHDGLQWKHRSHQLQJVHWDQG win over Sprayberry by a pair Brown had two, while Foster DW  SP DQG7KXUVGD·V WUL PDUJLQLQWKHVHFRQGVHW QXUVLQJDHGJH never looked back. The largest RIVFRUHV and Beal had one. In the aces match at Fannin County is at but kills from Austin Beal, Ka )RVWHUÀQLVKHGWKHPDWFK OHDG RI WKH VHW FDPH DW   Sosensky led the Pan department, Brown served SP Lady Panthers thump BAASA, Tallulah; fall to No. 4 Providence By Todd Forrest with two doubles and a walk, Sports Editor but it wasn’t enough to over sports@nganews.com come an uncharacteristic day for the senior in the pitching 1R  8QLRQ &RXQW circle. Despite striking out 10, VRIWEDOO RSHQHG WKH  VHD she walked four and hit three son with two convincing wins batters while allowing seven and a narrow setback, cruising hits and three earned runs over past Barrow Arts and Sciences seven innings. Academy (BAASA) and Tal Providence jumped on lulah Falls while dropping a Anthros early, starting the game GUDPDWLFGHFLVLRQWR1R with a double, triple, single, (Private) Providence Christian. hit by pitch and another single. This week, the Lady Fortunately, the Lady Panthers Panthers met another ranked limited the damage to two runs, WHDP 0RQGD DW &ODVV $·V allowing the offense to quickly 1R1RUWK+DOO7KHQH[WGD answer when Anthros doubled WKH WUDYHOHG WR *LOPHU DQG and Whitener tied the score Thursday, they host Oconee ZLWK D WZRUXQ RSSRVLWHÀHOG County. This weekend, Union homer. County visits North Forsyth, Union grabbed a brief WKHQ 5HJLRQ $$$ DFWLRQ  OHDG LQ WKH VHFRQG DI RSHQV 7XHVGD $XJ  DW ter Dyer singled and Stover Coahulla Creek. reached on an error, setting the Lady Panthers 15, WDEOH IRU &ROOLQV· UXQVFRULQJ BAASA 0 (4 innings) — Union base knock with two away. &RXQW EOHZ RSHQ D  OHDG Providence got the run back in after one inning with seven the third when a leadoff walk runs in the second and four in came around to score. the third during last Tuesday’s Junior Addison Whitener watches her 2-run homer sail out of the yard Senior Ella Akins doubles during Union County win over Tallulah Falls Dyer was cut down at the season opener in Winder. against Providence Christian. Photo/Todd Forrest on Friday. Photo/Todd Forrest plate trying to score on Stover’s 8QLRQ RXWKLW %$$6$ Davenport reached on an error,  DW WKH SODWH ZLWK WZR UXQV the plate, Stover drove in two UXQDQGÀQLVKHGIRU:KLW double in the bottom half, but  OHG E WKUHH KLWV DSLHFH H[SDQGLQJ WKH PDUJLQ WR  while Collins scored three UXQVDQG'HUÀQLVKHGIRU ener went 1 for 3, and Jordan Anthros escaped the fourth from senior Izzy Anthros and 6WRYHU·VVHFRQGDWEDWRIWKHLQ WLPHV GXULQJ KHU IRU GD with a pair of runs and an RBI. ÀQLVKHG  IRU  ZLWK DQ 5%, following a leadoff hit by pitch junior Stella Collins. Anthros QLQJFDSSHG8QLRQ·VVHYHQUXQ :KLWHQHUZHQWIRUVFRULQJ $QWKURVRSHQHGWKHÀUVW Akins and Poe each went 1 for and a double. The home half of and junior Lexi Davenport also second with an RBI groundout. three times and driving in one. with a walk, followed by base 2, Cisneros scored three times, the frame ended with a runner drove in three runs each. The third inning began 'DYHQSRUWÀQLVKHGIRUZLWK hits from Whitener and Daven and Collins added another run. aboard after an interference Anthros worked three with three straight Lady Pan a run. port. After a Tallulah Falls error Providence Christian call when the Providence third QRKLW LQQLQJV LQ WKH FLUFOH thers reaching base when Mya Cisneros walked twice, PDGHLW-RUGDQDQG6WRYHU 4, Union County 3 — The EDVHPDQ UDQ LQWR WKLUGEDVH striking out eight and walking Jordan, Anthros and Collins stole a base and drove in a run each singled in a run before Poe Storm escaped Blairsville with coach Casey Lusk inside the two. Junior Addison Whitener HDFKVLQJOHG'DYHQSRUW·VRQH while going 1 for 2. Freshmen and Anthros added RBIs. a narrow win courtesy of a coach’s box while chasing a SLWFKHGRQHSOXVLQQLQJZDON out double plated two runs, and Makaylin Bingham and Arlee The second inning began JDPHHQGLQJ LQWHUIHUHQFH FDOO SRSXSLQIRXOWHUULWRU LQJ ÀYH VWULNLQJ RXW WZR DQG a Cisneros single and another Davis each scored once. Akins, with Davenport singling the — the second of the day in Union County stranded allowing one hit. error allowed Union to tack on Poe, Jordan and Stover also other way, Collins reaching on their favor — with two Lady WZRUXQQHUVLQWKHÀIWKDOORZ Anthros and Collins two more. ÀQLVKHGZLWKDUXQ an error and Dyer’s groundout Panthers aboard in the bottom ing the Storm to break through opened the game with singles Whitener entered in the Lady Panthers 12, Tal- scoring a run. Stover drove in of the seventh. in the sixth when three straight before an error off the bat WKLUG DQG VXUYLYHG D EDVHV lulah Falls 0 (4 innings) — another run, and Akins’ RBI With one out in Union walks and an error plated the of Marlee Cisneros allowed loaded jam, and Union added Following the third weather de GRXEOH PDGH LW  WKURXJK &RXQW·V ÀQDO DWEDW$QWKURV JRDKHDGUXQ Anthros to score the game’s two runs in the fourth courtesy lay of the opening week, Union two innings. GRXEOHG WR WKH JDS LQ ULJKW :KLWHQHU ÀQLVKHG  IRU first run. Collins later came of doubles from Jordan, Whit County eventually made quick Following a scoreless center and Whitener worked 'HUWXUQHGLQDIRUGD around to score on Jules Dyer’s ener and Davenport. work of the visiting Indians on WKLUG IUHVKPDQ *UDFH 0F D IRXUSLWFK ZDON WR SXW WKH at the plate, while Cisneros and ÀHOGHU·VFKRLFH During the bottom of the Friday, scoring seven runs in Collum reached to start the winning run aboard. Later, Stover each went 1 for 3. Ava Stover, Ella Akins fourth, Whitener got into trou WKHÀUVWLQQLQJ fourth, Dyer singled to left and with two away, Davenport hit Up next: Union County DQG %ULH$QQ 3RH UHDFKHG WR ble after giving up a single and Davenport and Collins &LVQHURVUHDFKHGRQDÀHOGHU·V a grounder to the left side of the YLVLWV*LOPHUDW SP7XHV load the bases in the second, two walks, bringing Anthros combined to pitch two innings choice before eventually steal LQÀHOGEXW$QWKURVZDVUXOHG day and hosts Oconee County and Anthros cleared them with back to the circle to end the apiece, allowing just one hit ing home to end the game via out for impeding the shortstop DW   SP 7KXUVGD 6DWXU a double. Collins and Whitener contest with three strikeouts. and one walk while striking out the mercy rule. as she broke from second. day’s action at North Forsyth followed with doubles, and Anthros finished 3 for ÀYH'DYHQSRUWZHQWIRUDW Anthros drove in one Anthros went 3 for 3 gets underway at 11:30 a.m. *HRUJLD6TXLUUHO+XQWLQJ Learn to Haliburton captures title in Germany Season starts Saturday, August 15th Play Pickleball Hiawassee attorney Pres The Blairsville Pickle ton Haliburton’s latest journey ball Club, in conjunction with has taken him all the way to the Union County Recreation *HUPDQ ³ DQG WKH HDU Department, will hold free old is coming home a world *HRUJLD KXQWHUV JHW beginning pickleball classes champion. ready! Squirrel season begins every Tuesday evening start Haliburton traveled to $XJ  DQG RX FDQ KHDG WR LQJDWPM, weather permit :LWWHQEHUJ*HUPDQZKHUHKH the woods in pursuit of this ting. GHIHDWHG*HUPDQKHDYZHLJKW early season favorite. As one Classes will start April *HQH 3XNDOO E VHFRQGURXQG RI *HRUJLD·V ORQJHVWUXQQLQJ 21st and continue through knockout Saturday to capture small game seasons, squir 2FWREHUWK1RUHJLVWUDWLRQ the World Boxing Confed rel hunting offers the perfect to start,” said Tina Johannsen, is required, and all required eration heavyweight champi opportunity to introduce new Assistant Chief of the WRD equipment is provided. Please onship. KXQWHUVWRWKHÀHOGVFRXWSXE *DPH 0DQDJHPHQW 6HFWLRQ wear sneakers, no crocs, +DOLEXUWRQ   DOVR lic lands, and enjoy the beauty “Hunting squirrels doesn’t re VOLGHV HWF &HUWLÀHG LQVWUXF agreed to a rematch with Pu RI*HRUJLD·VZRRGVDFFRUGLQJ quire you to sit perfectly still or tors will teach the classes, and kall, with the proposed second WR WKH *HRUJLD 'HSDUWPHQW RI stay completely quiet, so, it’s all ages are welcome! bout to take place in the United Natural Resources’ Wildlife often less intimidating for be The classes will take States. Resources Division (WRD). ginners. Squirrels are common place at the outdoor courts at More on Haliburton’s “For those looking into WKURXJKRXW *HRUJLD VR QHZ the Union County Pickleball championship victory will ap becoming a hunter or introduc hunters have plenty of opportu &RPSOH[DW&KDVH'ULYH pear in a future addition of the ing someone new to hunting, nities to see wildlife and enjoy Blairsville (Next to the Rec North Georgia News. Preston Haliburton took home the World Boxing Confederation Heavysquirrel season is a great way a successful day outdoors.” Center). N(Aug12,Z2)CA weight title in Wittenberg, Germany on Saturday.

Page 16

Page 4B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 UNG President’s List and Dean’s List Iota Iota volunteers assist with University of North Geor- sociate degree or dual enroll- who made their respective lists gia (UNG) President Michael P. Shannon recognized students ment programs who met the same level of achievement were for summer 2026. Dean’s List recognition annual Backpack 2 School Bash who achieved a 4.0 GPA dur- named to the President’s List. is achieved by having at least ing the summer 2026 semester. Local students include: a 3.5 grade point average, car- Students enrolled in 12 or more Devin Reece of Blairsville; rying 12 or more credit hours credit hours in bachelor’s de- and Frances Fay and Joseph in one semester and having no gree programs who achieved Sands of Morganton. grade lower than B. Dean’s a 4.0 grade point average were The deans of each of List honorees included: Halnamed to the President’s Honor UNG’s colleges announced ey Baxter and Liam Smith of Roll. Students enrolled in as- the names of those students Blairsville. (L-R) Helen & Marie, (standing L-R): Kathy, Luann, Panthers Mascot, Chick-fil-A cow, Robin and Jan Iota Iota a chapter of received a backpack and a list unteers. Beta Sigma Phi volunteered of the items they needed for It was impressive how at the 11th Annual Backpack 2 school. the community came together GA license # 381349 NC license # 337004 School Bash on Saturday, Au- What a blessing to see to help the local students of gust 1st. There were 500 stu- the faces of the children as Union County. It was so much dents who signed up for this they received these much fun, we are looking forward to event. We stayed busy hand- needed school supplies next years event. ing out pencils, crayons, zip- There were activities If you would like to loc storage bags, erasers, and and food for the families as know more about Iota Iota, GEORGIA MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE OPTIONS pencil sharpeners. We helped they left the building. United please contact our Vice Presi- EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS! the students going into the El- Methodist Church provided a dent Sally Shuck at rashuck@ Shawn Rudd, ementary School. Each child wonderful meal for all the vol- windstream.net. Broker/Owner 706.897.7227 • ruddrealtor@yahoo.com • www.gmreo.com 1324 Fairview Church Road, Historical Society supports the Blairsville, Ga Great Southeast Pollinator Census! $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 In front of Jarrett House (L-R): JoAnn Hamby, Jayne Jones, Kathleen Cook, Marta Mead, Joan Drake, Patty Everett, Ray Covington-Research Station Superintendent By Jayne Jones Medicine Trail! On Mondays buildings dot the landscape. Union County from 9 AM to 1 PM, visitors Sun-loving perennials are now Historical Society can take a guided tour of the filled with pollinators. Tourists are always ask- vibrant gardens, now filled The volunteers of the ing me when they come to the with butterflies! Historical Society recently Old Courthouse for a tour, Visitors can also walk visited the 1892 Jarrett House “What else is interesting in the peaceful gardens alone with its exquisite herb gardens Start EarningToday the area that we can visit?” Monday through Friday from filled with sage, rosemary, lav- Besides reciting the famous 8 AM to 4:30 PM – just check ender, thyme, and medicinal “tourist spots”, I am now shar- into the Administration Build- herbs. ing about a wonderful, hidden ing first! There are benches So, if you have run out gem just 4 miles south of the throughout the area to just sit of ideas for your out-of-town WITH BANK OZK! Old Courthouse – The Georgia and reflect, observe, and mar- guests, need inspiration to Mountain Research & Educa- vel in nature. I love to pop in paint or take photographs, or tion Center! and take a refreshing walk af- just need some quiet, reflec- Established in 1930, ter a busy day. The gardens are tive time, consider the serene this 415-acre station provides ever- changing and I always gardens at the Georgia Experi- research support and vital in- see something new. There are ment Station. Also, you can 4.10 formation for producers in the woodland wildflowers, herbs, participate in the Southeast % mountain region. In addition, ferns, and shrubs. A lovely Pollinator Census on August there are gorgeous Ethnobo- walkway crosses over an an- 21-22! For more information, tanic Gardens and a Woodland cient spring. Old 1930s rock call 706-745-2655. YHC announces new program 8-MONTH CD OR IRA CD** SPECIAL helping students w/career journey Taking that next step school and a medical school. after graduation can be an in- His focus throughout his ca- 4.00 timidating experience for a reer has been on academic and % college student. That’s why career advising, leadership, Young Harris College is and professional development. launching Professional Readi- “I have always been in- ness & Experiential Programs. terested in helping students PREP is designed to compete in today’s world, help students develop the whether it’s the job market knowledge and skills needed or continuing to graduate for success after graduation. school,” Jones said. “I love “It’s all part of the aca- helping them become the can- 13-MONTH CD OR IRA CD** SPECIAL demic journey for a college didate a company chooses and student,” said Dr. David Jones, giving them the confidence associate vice president for they need to be successful.” PREP. “Students receive great Approaches like PREP instruction and develop their are unique in higher education skills throughout their time at Dr. David Jones circles, which attracted Jones YHC. We want to provide a Each area goes beyond to YHC. Visit one of our Blairsville, GA, locations or framework for students to be confident in articulating that as traditional career services by integrating leadership devel- “This is really an inno- vative approach to undergrad- open an account online at ozk.com.** they move through life.” PREP, which launches opment, financial literacy, ex- periential learning, research, uate education, designed to help students both in the class- this fall semester at YHC, is and professional preparation room and in the career space,” based on four anchor points, into the full college experi- Jones said. “The goal is to pre- playing to the mountain envi- ence. pare students not only for their ronment of the College, Jones “This program goes be- first job, but for careers that said. yond the classroom as we will may not exist yet.” Character and Leader- work with local businesses, Students in PREP will ship; Financial and Profes- like the Paris Business Cen- receive mentorship and advis- sional Planning; Research and ter in Hiawassee, to find in- ing throughout their four-year Technology; Global Aware- ternships or partnerships for journey at YHC. Everything ness and Civic Engagement. our students with local busi- from resume writing and in- “Anchor points are the nesses,” Jones said. “One of terviewing skills to budgeting people, places, and experi- the key components to suc- and financial planning or re- ences that help guide you, and cess outside of the classroom search methods will be readily each anchor point will help is confidence. You have the available. ozk.com prepare students to take that knowledge, now you need the “In the end, we want next step, much like an anchor confidence to succeed.” them to rock whatever role *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective as of the publication date. $1,000 minimum deposit point helps a climber scale a Jones recently joined they get,” Jones said. “We to open and is required to earn stated APY. Penalty for early withdrawal. IRA CD is subject to eligibility requirements. Offer not available to Public Funds, brokers, dealers and other mountain,” Jones said. “You YHC, bringing 26 years of want them to be confident and financial institutions. Fees could reduce earnings. Offer subject to change without notice. reach an anchor point. You experience in higher educa- know they will be OK in the Offer good at locations in Blairsville, GA only. stop and assess where you tion working in everything world.” **IRA CD must be opened in person and cannot be opened online. are, and then you continue to from a community college to a Learn more about PREP climb.” four-year institution, graduate at yhc.edu/prep.

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5B Young Harris Historic Preservation, 1149 Main Street Scam & Fraud husband Glenn, an accom- plished tradesman, and her for live music added, and a fire pit installed. In addition, they basis. Main Street Young Har- ris is proud to partner with the Awareness Class son Taylor Osborn, a young built a staircase to connect to Wing House and to recognize entrepreneur, took over the the YHC parking lot, which the long-standing history of Golf Course Community Center YH Wing House near the end the college generously allows 1149 Main Street. 129 Union County Recreation Road of 2022. The Osborn’s have customers to use. Michelle Many thanks to the fol- taken the Wing House to the was a founding board member lowing who provided history Blairsville, GA 30512 Beginning in 2025, the Main Street Young Harris next level, creating the popu- of Main Street Young Har- and input into this article: Stu Important Information Presented by board implemented a historic lar restaurant that it is today. ris, and the YH Wing House Montchar, Michelle Barnard, Under their ownership, seating is a strong supporter of Main Shirely Miller, and the many Union County Sheriff’s Office preservation initiative by celebrating people and places that has been extended with a 24’ Street by providing food, fun, members of the Hearthstones Tri-State Tech Support have served the community for x 24’ outdoor canopy, a stage and entertainment on a weekly of Home Facebook group who provided photos and informa- United Community Bank many years. In 2025, the City celebrated its 130th anniversa- tion. Photo credits go to Towns Adult Protective Services ry, along with recognizing the County Historical Society, Ja- son Lee Edwards, Wade Nich- Open to the Public long-standing history of the Cable’s property and family. ols, Logan Owenby, Joe Mari- August 26, 2026 • 10 AM Historical preservation time- lyn Hall. lines and articles are housed on the City’s website at www. youngharrisga.net/msp/page/ Dana Kelly historical-preservation. Nelson Shuler For 2026, the focus is 706-835-7906 706-745-3500 828-361-2074 1149 Main Street, or what we www.CBHighCountry.com now know as the YH Wing 211 Cleveland Street, Suite A, Blairsville, GA 30512 House. Before it transformed into the popular restaurant Three-bedroom, it is today, 1149 Main Street two-bath log cabin housed the Zeke Ross Ser- nestled in a private vice Station. Ezekial “Zeke” setting, offering Ross built the existing building in 1955 out of concrete porches, and deck, block, and it served as not peaceful seclusion, only a service station, but as rustic charm, a community gathering place. abundant wildlife, Matt Miller has fond memo- and serene natural ries of visiting Zeke since he always left with a candy bar surroundings. Schedule in hand. Sandra Parker Sisum an appointment today! recalls spending time on the Beautiful 3/3 Mountain Home playground of Young Harris Ezekiel “Zeke” Ross Service Station. Zeke is seated on the right, and situated on a desirable corner Elementary before walking the individual on the left has not been verified but is possibly his son, lot with mountain views and an over to the station with her William “Red” Ross. exceptional Áoor plan. Each level mom. The facility included of- offers its own private bedroom fice space, men’s and women’s restrooms, a storeroom, and Roy Perren in concert Friday at and full bath, providing comfort and privacy for family and guests three service bays. Pictured the Old Courthouse on the Square alike. Enjoy outdoor living from the wraparound porch, relax on on the right is Zeke Ross, and possibly his son, William/ the screened porch, or unwind on the private balcony just off Bill “Red” Ross. At that time, the upstairs primary ensuite. A Zeke’s was a Gulf Station, but two-car garage and two separate had many iterations through- driveways provide ample parking out its existence. and convenience. MLS 434952 A lesser known fact about the Zeke station is that the first structure that served as Zeke’s became known as “the Zeke House.” As Shirley Miller recounted, she and Zell purchased Zeke’s first build- 2)),&,$/127,&( ing and refurbished it into a home for Zell’s cousin, Brian Bryson, and his wife. In 1961, the structure had been moved Please be advised that the regularly scheduled to the Miller’s property on the Young Harris College cam- meeting of the Union County Commission, pus and transformed into a home complete with decora- originally scheduled for August 20, 2026, at tive hand stenciling by Birdie Miller. Birdie, Zell’s mother, 6:00 p.m. in the Union County Courthouse, has was an artist, and integral in the refurbishing of the station been relocated and rescheduled. into a home. When Brian and his wife moved to Cleveland, Georgia, Tim Cable purchased Roy Perren The meeting will be held on August 20, 2026, at Roy Perren will be in concert Friday, August 14th, at the the home, moved it to the Cable compound, and added a Old Courthouse. Come out an enjoy a great concert featuring 9:30 a.m. at the Union County Sports Center, music from “Elvis”. This is a free concert and everyone is inbasement and garage. Throughout the 1970s vited to attend. The doors open at 6 PM and the concert begins located at 519 Industrial Boulevard, at 7 PM. Donations are accepted and appreciated for the upkeep and early 80s various community members ran the gas sta- of the old courthouse. Blairsville, Georgia. tion at 1149 Main, including Adam Nichols, Troy Lovell, father and son duo Glen and LNIA invites community to Annual Individuals with disabilities who require certain accommodations in order to allow them Russell Roberts, Donald Dot- Picnic on Saturday, August 15th to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding the son, and James Barrett. Carl accessibility of the meeting, or the facilities are required to contact the County Clerk at laughs! S. Owenby purchased the sta- The itinerary is as fol- 706-439-6000 promptly to allow the County to make tion in the 1980s and ran it lows: 4:30-5 p.m., Meet & reasonable accommodations for those persons. until he passed away in 1992. Greet; 5 p.m., the Pedalin’ Over the years, it was also a Pirates Pontoon Race begins, Phillips and Union 76 station. to end at 5:45 p.m.; 6 p.m., The final owner was Joe Max Moment of Silence & Dinner Puett, son of Frank Puett and – guests are welcome to bring Lela Berrong of Young Harris, The Lake Nottely Im- a side or dessert; 6:45 p.m., and in 1999, Stu Monchar pur- provement Association would LNIA Organization Business; chased the property. Montchar, like to extend a warm welcome 7:15 p.m., Giveaway Drawwho relocated from Arizona to to everyone in the community ings; 7:30 p.m., Wind Down. Young Harris, spent a year sig- to attend its Annual Picnic, set Once again, LNIA innificantly renovating the struc- for Saturday, Aug. 15, from vites all to attend and be inture. He ran a small restaurant, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Nottely volved in the Lake Nottely the Young Harris Bistro, until Marina, 86 Doucette Circle, community! Come enjoy great he realized that he “was bet- Marker #10 on the water. food, LINIA information, an ter at building restaurants than Join LNIA for an eve- exciting pedal pontoon race running them” and closed. ning of fun, food, and good and some great giveaways! From 2008 to 2018 the building had a variety of tenants, and Stu upgraded the electric services due to the demands of the kitchen. Local chef Adam Daniel leased the building in April of 2020 and planned to open the YH Wing House. However, COVID hit, and regulations prohibited him from opening as a restaurant. Instead, he served the community by ordering essential supplies such as paper towels, toilet paper, and food, providing drive-up service. As soon as the restrictions were lifted, the YH Wing House opened. Due to his culinary skills, it was a success. Extenuating circumstances required Adam to close roughly two years after opening, and the building was sold. The Osborn family, an established and well-respected family of farmers and ranchers with a history of restaurant management, purchased the Wing House. Michelle Barnard (formerly Osborn), her $ CASH 4 $ $ $ $ Antique $ $ $ $ Trucks & Cars $ $ $ Tractors! $ $ Not Running & Rusted $ $ $ Pre-1950’s $ $ Labosco’s at the $ $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ $ $ 706-745-0097 $ CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING!

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Page 6B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 $ CASH 4 $ Great Southeastern Pollinator Union County Jail $ $ $ COINS, $ Arrest/Booking Report $ $ SILVER $ $ Census Count begins August 21st Shawn Dyer, Union County Sheriff $ $ $ & COSTUME $ Every year on the third gust 21st from 8:30-11:30 AM $ $ weekend in August, local gar- the actual count will take place 08/04/26 Carla Ann Bottrell, age 68, Blairsville, GA $ JEWELRY $ deners and other interested at the library pollinator garden. DUI, failure to maintain lane, no license on person $ Labosco’s at the $ community members prepare Hiawassee Library will be 08/05/26 John Curtis Cislak, age 40, Augusta, GA $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ Probation violation (felony) $ $ to count pollinators who live counting on Friday, August 21 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville in our gardens and back yards. at 10-11 AM. The other public 08/06/26 William Michael Curley, age 80, Blairsville, GA $ $ $ 706-745-0097 $ This is important research garden count sites are the Mar- Aggravated assault (3 counts), DUI/alcohol/0.08 CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! done in support of Georgia’s ket Garden at Union County grams or more 21 YOA or over, reckless driving, possession of open alcohol container, aggressive main economic driver, agri- Farmers Market; Young Har- culture, as this annual count of ris Library, 698 Miller Street, driving (2 counts), improper stopping on roadway, Healthy Minds for Better Lives, Inc. pollinators and their habitats Young Harris; Enotah Gar- too fast for conditions, speeding in excess of maxi- is critical to the success of all den Club Butterfly Garden at mum limits (state speed and zone limits), fail to Can I drink alcohol if I don¼t get drunk? crops. The pollinator census count originated here in the Cupid Falls in Young Harris; Lloyd’s Landing, US Hwy 76, dim headlights, failure to have license on person, expired license, following too closely, failure to Some will argue that the Bible doesn’t say we can’t drink alcohol, just that we shouldn’t get drunk. There are precepts (commands) in Scripture, local area and was created East, Hiawassee. These gar- obey stop sign, speed less than minimum, failure to but also principles. Does the Bible say, “Thou shalt not use heroine”? by UGA staffer Becky Grif- dens will be staffed on Satur- to maintain lane, improper/erratic lane change, But should you use heroine? While there is not a precept that says exactly fin, State Coordinator of Pol- day, August 22, from noon-1 giving wrong signal, improper backing, driving that, what is the principle? 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: What? know ye not that linator Health. What began in PM to assist with the counting. within a gore or median, improper passing on left your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have Georgia has now spread to five Count sheets will be avail- 08/08/26 Adam Louis Melton Hataway, age 31, Blairsville, GA of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: surrounding states which also able at each count site. Spon- Kidnapping, battery, criminal trespass therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 08/06/26 Javier Arteaga Hernandez, age 27, Blairsville, GA participate in the annual count. sors for this year’s Pollinator healthymindsamerica.wixsite.com/healthy-minds This is the eighth year for the Census include Towns Union Disorderly conduct census in Georgia. Master Gardener Association, 08/09/26 Corey Owen Jones, age 45, Blairsville, GA This year, the Towns the Georgia Native Plant Soci- DUI-drugs less safe, reckless driving, improper BUY • SELL • TRADE Union Master Gardener As- ety, North Georgia Mountains use of central turn lane, failure to stop at stop/ sociation has planned spe- Chapter, the Enotah Garden yield sign We Buy Gold cific educational events at the Union County Library, located Club, and the Hiawassee Gar- den Club. 08/07/26 Yonny Landaverde, age 46, Norcross, GA Serving time Vintage and at 303 Hunt Street, Blairsville. Pick a garden, day, and 08/07/26 Jacob Ray Joseph Lee, age 28, Blairsville, GA Pre-Owned Watches On Tuesday, August 18th at time and help count bees and Serving time Professional Service 10 AM; a class, “How to Do other interesting pollinators; 08/09/26 Michael Harrison Lovell, age 62, Blairsville, GA the Pollinator Count, “will be it only takes 15 minutes! You DUI/drugs/less safe, failure to maintain lane & Repair held; on Thursday August 20th can count on both days and 08/03/26 Taylor Ryan Martin, age 39, Blairsville, GA at 4 PM, there will be a short you can count in your own False report of a crime 706-514-9884 presentation on bees during back yard. Count sheets are 08/07/26 Carlos Emmamuel Martinez, age 44, Lawrenceville, GA 40 Town Square, Suite L the Kidsventure Afterschool available for printing on web- Serving time Blairsville, GA program, and on Friday, Au- site GSePC.org or at UGA 08/06/26 Judson Henry Mobley, age 30, Cumming, GA Towns and Union Extension Failure to appear (felony) Save the Date: AUGUST MEETING offices. 08/03/26 Ryan Alan Moore, age 41, Murphy, NC Grace Howard, Entering auto (2 counts), financial transaction card Master Gardener fraud (3 counts), theft by taking Extension Volunteer 08/04/26 Lona Ann O’Reilly, age 67, Blairsville, GA DUI, failure to maintain lane, failure to have license on person VETERANS 08/08/26 Robert Anthony Petry, age 41, Atlantic, NC CORNER Driving while license suspended/revoked, failure to maintain lane Disabled American 08/09/26 Austin John Richter, age 22, Blue Ridge, GA Veterans - DAV Chapter 11: Serving time Meetings are on the 2nd Mon- 08/04/26 Courtney Kristine Savage, age 28, Blairsville, GA day of each month at 7 PM; 78 Simple assault/assault-family violence Sunday, August 16, 2026 • 3 PM - 5 PM Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. 08/09/26 Genevie Ann Speer, age 68, Blairsville, GA DUI-alcohol less safe, failure to maintain lane Pat Haralson Memorial Civic Center Navy Seabee Veterans 08/07/26 Sean Padraic Sullivan, age 41, Blairsville, GA Probation violation 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA Of America, Island X-3, GA: Meetings are on the 2nd Fri- 08/09/26 Keith Wayne Taylor, age 44, St. Augustine, FL day of each month at 2 PM; 78 Speeding in excess of maximum limits (state &RQ¿UPHG*XHVW6SHDNHUV Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, speed and zone limits), reckless driving Josh McLaurin GA 30512. 08/08/26 Collin Matthew Thomas, age 25, Atlanta, GA Driving while license suspended/revoked Navy Seabee Veterans Anna Purcella-Doll Support Alliance: Meetings There are 65 inmates currently housed in the Union County Jail. are on the 2nd Friday of each 2WKHU&DQGLGDWHV,QYLWHG month at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Blairsville Police Department Keisha Lance Bottoms Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. Marine Corps League, Arrests and Incident Report Gary St. Lawrence Detachment 783: Meetings Chief Michael “Bear” Baxter Dave Cooper are on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 10 AM; 78 Blue Nick Mitchell and More! Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA 08/05/26 Lee Eileen Kovacsevics, age 77, Robbinsville, NC 30512. Disorderly conduct Gilmer County will be hosting this month’s meeting American Legion - Ira 08/03/26 Assist other agency, funeral escort, courtesy escort and will bring snacks and bottled water Weaver Post: Meetings are on 08/04/26 Courtesy escort, 3 MVAs the 3rd Tuesday of each month 08/05/26 Disorderly conduct, suspicious vehicle/person, at 6 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., courtesy escort Blairsville, GA 30512. 08/06/26 Theft by taking, courtesy escort, 3 MVAs Vietnam Veterans Of 08/07/26 Courtesy escort, 2 MVAs *Ç ! America, Chapter 1101: 08/08/26 Courtesy escort, MVA Meetings are on the 3rd Thurs- 08/09/26 Funeral escort, courtesy escort day Of each month at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairs- ville, GA 30512. Union County Fire Veterans Of Foreign Department Incidents Wars - Post 7394: Meetings ,6U are on the 4th Tuesday Of each Union County Fire Chief David Dyer month at 4 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville GA 30512. 08/03/26 Motor Vehicle Accident-Russell Scenic Hwy; Car PTSD Support Group: Seat Install-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call- Meets on the 1st and 3rd Sat- Station 1-Blairsville; 2 Medical Calls-Station 13 & urdays at 10 AM. Did you know we deliver Community Station 7-Dooly; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 12-Choestoe; Smoke Detector Install-Station 1- Blairsville 08/04/26 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; to local businesses? Line Dance this Saturday 08/05/26 Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; 3 Medical Calls-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock Car Seat Install-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call- Just give us a call! Calling all lovers of The Beatles. The Mountain Lin- ers of Blairsville are doing it 08/06/26 Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Medical Call- Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock Fire Alarm-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Medical again this Saturday night, Au- Call-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; Medical Call- gust 15th at the Pat Haralson Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Medical Call- Statiton 1 & Station 9-Coosa; Medical Call-Station Need colored paper? Memorial Civic Center from 6:30 to 9 PM. The doors open 08/07/26 1 & Station 10-Trackrock Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; at 6 PM and there will be open Need cardstock? dance from 6 to 6:30. We will be dancing the Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Fire night away exclusively to Bea- Alarm-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Powerline We got you! tles songs. We will have danc- es for beginners as well as ex- perienced dancers, both young 08/08/26 Fire-Station 1 & Statio 10-Trackrock; Medical Call- Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock Equipment Fire-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; and old (no age requirements), Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog; CO and will teach dances on and Alarm-Station 1 & Statio 10-Trackrock; Medical $4.99 per ream off throughout the night. The first dance teach will start at 6:30. Bring your family and 08/09/26 Call-Appalachian Trail Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; 3 Medical Calls-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; $49.99 per case friends and take a trip down memory lane. The Civic Cen- ter is located at 165 Wellborn 4 Medical Calls-Station 1 & Station 12-Choestoe Street, Blairsville, GA 30512. S.A.F.E. Support in White 20# 8.5x11 $5 per person is collected at Abusive Family Emergencies the door to defray expenses. 92 Brightness Feel free to bring food and soft No one deserves abuse or tification, birth certificate? Take drinks. has a right to abuse you. Partner your money or make you ask If you have questions, Abuse can be Physical or Psy- for money? Intimidate you with reach out to Rita at vck- chological, an abusive partner weapons? Tell you that you’re Colored paper and heavier ids2001@yahoo.com. may: Call you names and put a bad parent or threaten to take you down; Control your access children? Threaten to commit weight pricing varies. Call Support Group to money or people; Slap, punch, suicide or kill you, your pets, or push or choke you; Pressure or others? for assistance, please. for Families force you into sexual acts. If in immediate danger, with Addicts There’s no excuse for abuse - being abusive is a choice. call 911; S.A.F.E. Crisis Hotline: 706-379-3000. Addiction affects ev- Keep that in mind if your part- eryone close to the addict. If someone’s addiction to drugs ner tries to blame the abuse on: Something you did or didn’t do; Codependents is affecting you, we can help. Nar-Anon is a twelve step pro- An intense love for you; Being Anonymous drunk, high or stressed out. gram for families and friends Abuse is about Power Weekly Meeting of addicts. At our meetings and Control, it is not a part of a Codependents Anony- 706-745-6343 you will hear others, who are loving relationship. Does your mous Meeting: Self-Help going through similar prob- partner: Make all the decisions? group offering a 12 Step Re- lems, share about how they Look at you or act in ways that covery Program meets on cope and find recovery. scare you? Stop you from see- Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. - We meet on Sunday ing or talking to friends or fam- 11:30 a.m. at Rivers of Peace, westprinting@windstream.net from 6 PM to 7 PM at 112 Cedar Lane, Blairsville, GA 30512. ily? Act like the abuse is no big deal, say it’s your fault, or deny RCO 166 Josh Hall Road, Suite 4, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. All it? Destroy your property, iden- are welcome.

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7B 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 JUNK CARS: We pay CASH for junk cars. Call (706) 379- LAND RENTAL LEGAL ADS 101 N. Alabama Avenue DeLand, FL 32724 before service on Petitioner or immediately Kristin Stephens Stanley Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer 3190. N(Jun21,UFN) thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be Deputy Clerk PORTABLE SOLAR GEN- HUNTING LAND FOR entered against you for the relief demanded in 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 LEASE. 4 tracts west of Mur- NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS the petition. Blairsville, GA 30512 ERATOR: Yeti Pro 4000WH SCRAP CARS WANTED - IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY BERNARDINE DUERBECK Copies of all court documents in this case, in- Address Portable Power Station - Goal Top Dollar Paid including pick- phy, NC. All join USFS lands, All creditors of the estate of MARY BERNAR- cluding orders, are available at the Clerk of the (706) 439-6006 hunting camps ok. Trophy deer, DINE DUERBECK deceased, late of Union County, Circuit Court’s office. You may review these Telephone Number Zero. Includes Nomad 400 Por- up - call or text Todd at Tank Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their documents upon request. N(Aug12) table Solar Panels. Still in box, Town USA - 706.633.6072 hog, bear and turkey. Cam- demands to the undesigned according to law, You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s leave msg. N(Jul15,ufn) era, feeders, tree stands ok. and all persons indebted to law, and all persons office notified of your current address. You IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY garage kept. Paid $5000 brand indebted to said estate are required to make may file Designation of Current Mailing and STATE OF GEORGIA new - never used. Will consider Ross Adams. 706-897-2837. immediate payment to the Personal Represen- E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Ap- IN RE: ESTATE OF GAINFULLY EMPLOYED all reasonable offers! Call or adamsross39@gmail.com tative. proved Family Law Form 12.915. Future papers FRANCES EVELYN BAKER 36-YEAR-OLD MALE This 15th day of July 2026 in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the DECEASED text 321-695-8245. NT(Jul29,Aug5,12) N(Aug12) BY: Deborah Anne Parr address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. ESTATE NO. 2023-134 SEEKING TO RENT A PET- 4117 Chestnut Grove Road WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules NOTICE Keedysville, MD. 21756 CRAFTSMAN RIDING FRIENDLY ROOM. Willing of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclo- [For discharge from office and all liability] MOWER, 26 HP, 54” cut. to assist with cleaning, cooking, VACATION ATTORNEY: Kenya L. Patton sure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dis- PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF MELVA LYNN EDWARDS AND $500 OBO. 706-379-2432. yard work, chores, etc. Please 44 Blue Ridge Street, Suite B missal or striking of pleadings. MARSHA FAYE TOTHEROW FOR DISCHARGE AS N(Aug12) call/text Jeremy at 706-994- RENTALS Blairsville, GA. 30512 N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) Dated: July 13, 2026 LAURA E ROTH CO-EXECUTORS OF THE ESTATE OF FRANCES EV- LYN BAKER, DECEASED. 5985. N(Apr1,ufn) CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT To Whom it may concern: IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY BY: /s/ D. Waszak This is to notify you to file an objection, if there YARD SALE PETS STATE OF GEORGIA IN RE: ESTATE OF WANDA SUE CUMMINGS DEPUTY CLERK N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August 24, 2026. BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the peti- DECEASED NOTICE OF CHANGE OF CORPORATE NAME tion must be in writing, setting forth the grounds HUMMINGBIRD ESTATE ESTATE NO. 2026-92 Notice is hereby given that Articles of Amend- of any such objections. All objections should MALTESE PUPPIES: PRICE PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION ment to change the name of Pathway Christian be sworn to before a notary public or before a SALES would like to an- NOTICE Counseling, Inc. to New Dawn Advocacy Inc probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tennounce our next estate sale. We REDUCED. First shots, de- To whom it may concern: have been delivered to the Secretary of State for dered with your objections, unless you qualify to wormed, registered and health Elizabeth O’ Sullivan has petitioned to be ap- filing in accordance with the Georgia Nonprofit file as an indigent party. Contact probate court are calling this one the Picker’s pointed administrator(s) of the estate of Wanda Corporation Code. The registered office of the personnel for the required amount of filing Place located in town, down- guarantee. $550-$850. Call 770- Sue Cummings deceased, of said county. (The corporation is located at 417 Blue Ridge St, Ste fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will 894-9991. NT(Jul22-Aug12) petitioner has also applied for waiver of bond, N, Blairsville, GA 30512. be scheduled at a later date. If no objections town Blairsville. It will be held waiver of reports, waiver of statements, and/or N(Aug5,12) are filed, the petition may be granted without at 733 Jones St, Blairsville on FULL-BLOODED GERMAN grant of certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § a hearing. 53-12-261.) All interested persons are hereby NOTICE OF INTENT TO INCORPORATE Kristin Stephens Stanley Saturday and Sunday, August SHEPHERD PUPPIES $500. notified to show cause why said petition should Notice is given that Articles of Incorporation Judge of the Probate Court 15th and 16th from 9 am to 4 Already had the 1st shot and de- not be granted. All objections to the petition for PATTERSONS HOMES UNITED, INC. will be By: Charla Dyer must be in writing, setting forth the grounds delivered to the Secretary of State for filing in Deputy Clerk pm. Items available will be re- wormed. 6 weeks old on August of any such objections, and must be filed with accordance with the Georgia Business Corpo- 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 cliners, antique chest, clothing, 2nd. AKC registered parents on the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August 17, ration Code. The initial registered office of the Blairsville, GA 30512 tools, kitchen items, gun cabi- 2026. Corporation will be located at 61 Lloyd Dragstrip Address site. 706-851-5753. NT(Aug12) BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the peti- Road, Blairsville, Georgia 30512, and its regis- (706) 439-6006 net, shelving, curio cabinet, tion must be in writing, setting forth the grounds tered agent at such address is Jamey Patterson. Telephone Number desk, and so much more! We of any such objections. All objections should This 28th day of July, 2026. N(Aug12) accept credit cards and cash for COMMERCIAL 25 Years of Experience be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be ten- dered with your objections, unless you qualify to Jamey Patterson 61 Lloyd Dragstrip Road NOTICE OF payment. No public restrooms. Blairsville, GA 30512 CONVICTION-UNLAWFUL DUMPING OF No early birds. Please bring RENTALS Now Accepting Property Listings www.georgiaemr.com file as an indigent party. Contact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing N(Aug5,12) EGREGIOUS LITTER <500 LBS UNION COUNTY help for large/heavy items as fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY PROBATE COURT ABLE MINI STORAGE. (877) 307-3367 STATE OF GEORGIA CONVICTED PERSON we are unable to help. Check are filed, the petition may be granted without IN RE: ESTATE OF Ashley E. Cordell out or Facebook page at Hum- 5x10 & 10x15 available. Call a hearing. LILLIE M. WARGO ADDRESS 706-745-8834. N(Apr24-ufn) Kristin Stephens Stanley DECEASED 1175 Wilmar Circle mingbird Estate Sales LLC for pictures, directions and a map. CABIN RENTAL Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer ESTATE NO. 2025-96 NOTICE Blairsville, GA 30512 OFFENSE DATE Blairsville Follow the signs on the day of the sale. Reach out if you have IN BEAUTIFUL WEARS VALLEY GATEWAY TO THE SMOKIES Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 [For discharge from office and all liability] PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY 8/24/2025 OFFENSE TIME Picker’s Barn Blairsville, GA 30512 Re: PETITION OF JOHN V. WARGO, III FOR DIS- 01:47 P.M. Address CHARGE AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF LILLIE OFFENSE LOCATION any questions - 706-994-4457. GATLINBURG—PIGEON FORGE (706) 439-6006 M. WARGO, DECEASED. 1175 Wilmar Circle & Storage NT(Aug12) Telephone Number To Whom it may concern: Blairsville, GA 30512 N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) This is to notify you to file an objection, if there (Blairsville, GA) MOVING SALE. Fri/Sat Aug is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this CASE DISPOSITION: *$750.00 fine, *12 Months NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August 24, 2026. Probation, *4th amendment waiver, *NO alcohol from 50/month 14 & 15 8A-2P. 1524 Highland Trace, Lance Crossing, Blairs- $ IN RE: ESTATE OF Gary Austin Kellman, Estate No. 2026-62 All creditors of the estate of Gary Austin Kell- BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the peti- tion must be in writing, setting forth the grounds or drugs, *Pre-clear RX’s, *Specimen admissi- bility/Records release, * Shall not perform any of any such objections. All objections should outdoor burning of any kind ville. Ammo, hunting, fishing, man deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are be sworn to before a notary public or before a N(Aug12) tools, sporting goods, house- 10x10 thru 20x30 hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons probate court clerk, and filing fees must be ten- dered with your objections, unless you qualify to hold items, collectibles. N(Aug12) You can sell from your unit! indebted to law, and all persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment file as an indigent party. Contact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing Legals continued MOVING SALE-ALL MUST GO. Grill, used 5 times, has (706) 745-0097 to the Personal Representative. This 10th day of July, 2026. BY: Rodrick Lee Benedict fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections on page 8B are filed, the petition may be granted without side burner, comes with cover: 19/129 South of Square 1.25 miles! 7928 SE Swan Avenue a hearing. Hobe Sound, FL 33455 $50. College fridge, wood book N(Aug5,12,19,26) cases, rocking chairs, table/4 RESIDENTIAL chairs, bedroom sets, queenking, linens. New fridge: $500. RENTALS NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Laurie Dawn Kellman, Estate No. 2026-64 All creditors of the estate of Laurie Dawn Kell- PART-TIME LG. Plants, Craftsman lawn- HELP WANTED man deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are COVE CREEK COTTAGE: Cozy, mower, 1 yr old, paid $2000: 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE unique setting next to Cove Creek, hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons make offer. Wet/dry vac, Po- HOMES: In Union & Fannin 2 BR/2 BA, fireplace, hot tub, indebted to law, and all persons indebted to said laris Ranger, paid $11,200, sell Counties. Also a 2BD House for Towns County Herald king bed, private yet convenient, estate are required to make immediate payment sleeps six. to the Personal Representative. for $8000. Push mower: $125. rent. Units can be GRFA. Hud FOR MORE INFO & This 10th day of July, 2026. So much household stuff, no Approved. Call (706) 633-6436 or RESERVATIONS CALL... BY: Rodrick Lee Benedict 7928 SE Swan Avenue kid stuff. Fri-Sat 9-2. In base- 1-828-837-4861. N(Feb11,UFN) In The Smokies Hobe Sound, FL 33455 ment. Lance Crossing off Murphy Hwy. 407 Highland Trace. APARTMENT FOR RENT. 1BR/1BA 10 min outside Cabin Rentals N(Aug5,12,19,26) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDI- Office Assistance Grey house w/black wood CIAL CIRCUIT, fence. N(Aug12) Murphy. Kitchen, laundry and deck. All inclusive, $1200. Email Ask for Cove IN AND FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2026 10280 FMDL In Re: The Marriage of: Ad Salesperson for details karinablomquist@ Creek Cottage LYRIC ELLEN BROWN, WANTED gmail.com NT(Aug12) 800-893-7274 Petitioner/Wife, and KOHL JOSEPH BROWN, News Reporter BEAUTIFUL CREEK FRONT Respondent/Husband. WANTED - TOP DOLLAR 2 BEDROOM 3 BATH HOME. Amended PAID: Blairsville Pick- NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MAR- Send resume to er’s Barn. Antiques, Clean Private, yet just minutes from the HELP WANTED RIAGE TО: KОHL JOSEPH BROWN northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail.com lake and downtown Hiawassee. Furniture, Collectibles, High ceilings, wood burning 283 Nichols Circle, Blairsville, GA 30512 Pottery, Art, Glassware, Farm LUCKY DOG HOSPITAL- YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution newsjarrard@gmail.com fireplace, hardwood floors, ITY NOW HIRING: Lucky’s, of marriage has been filed against you and that Equipment & More! Gold outdoor entertainment area, you are required to serve a copy of your written or stop by the & Silver Coins, Jewelry. Sammies Subs, Teppanyaki defenses, if any, to it on LYRIC ELLEN BROWN, and screened in deck. Offered Time, Blairsville Restaurant, whose address is: North Georgia News office Top dollar paid! 1 mile on fully furnished or unfurnished. The Law Offices of Brandon L, Law, PLLC 19/129 South of the Square! and Pizza Belly Hiring for Line 390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 2300 $2,350/month plus utilities. Call Cooks, Bartenders, Managers, Orlando FL 32801 at 266 Cleveland Street, 706-745-0097. N(Jun5,ufn) Scott 706-970-5549. NT(Aug12,19) on or before Sept 14, 2026 and file the original Servers, Apply in Person at res- with the clerk of this Court at: Blairsville, GA 30512 taurant of your choice. NT(Mar18,ufn) Volusia County Clerk of Courts BLAIRSVILLE PART TIME HELP WANT- ED: Need part time office PICKERS BARN help/salesperson for the Towns County area. Send resume to northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail Antiques, Collectibles, Furniture, Glassware, Pictures, Coins, .com or stop by the North Geor- Rustic Decor, Fine Jewelry, Diamonds, Gold, Silver, & Much More! gia News office at 266 Cleve- WANTED - Antiques, Pottery, Gold, Diamonds, Silver & Coins land Street, Blairsville, GA. Affordable Workshops for Crafts & Hobbies with limited Electric! NT(ufn,nc) ~ Booths Available ~ LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST. Full Time/Part 19/129 South of the Blairsville Square 1.25 miles Time. Top Pay. Blairsville Re- 706-745-0097 • Home of the Adirondack Furniture Factory! sort Spa. Apply in person. 366 Paradise Road, Blairsville, GA. Any day, 10 - 6 p.m. 706-745- 7483. N(Sept28,ufn) MEN ON THE MOVE IS NOW HIRING MOVERS / TOTERS. Must be a team player, drug free, have a valid drivers license and able to lift heavy furniture. Please call 706- 379-6683. Located in Young Harris. NT(Dec24,ufn) WANT TO MAKE A FEW WE BUY & TRADE GUNS BUCKS WITH NO LONG TERM COMMITMENT? GUNSMITH ON SITE Help harvest grapes this fall. $12/hour and free lunch. Call 190 BLUE RIDGE STREET, Steve: 706-897-0460. N(Aug12,19) BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 FULL TIME EXPERIENCED CARPENTER: Must have (706) 745-GUNS (4867) transportation and must be on time. Starting pay $19/hour, must be able to do finish work. Call 706-400-0316. NT(Aug12,ufn) NOTICE BANKRUPTCY Union County Board of Elections issues DEBT RELIEF the call for an advisory referendum election THE LANCE for the purpose of submitting a question to LAW FIRM, P.C. the electors of Union County to determine FREE whether a majority of said electors desire CONSULTATION the governing authority to be changed from 57 Sears Way DVROHFRPPLVVLRQHUWRD¿YHPHPEHUERDUG Blairsville, GA 30514 of commissioners. The advisory referendum 706-835-1212 WE ARE A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY. WE election shall be held on Tuesday, November HELP PEOPLE FILE FOR BANKRUPTCY RELIEF. 3, 2026 with the General Election. CLASSIFIED Elizabeth Stevens, ADS SELL! Board of Elections Call 706-745-6343 or email FV@nganews.com

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Page 8B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS 5. Mossberg 100. Serial number: BA172xxx date. If no objections are filed, the petition may (706) 439-6006 ING SHOWN AS TRACT 1 CONTAINING (1.571 the status of the loan as provided above. IN RE: ESTATE OF Robert Allen Sands 6. Browning model 22. No serial number. be granted without a hearing. Telephone Number ACRES), AND TRACT II, CONTAINING (.129 Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2, the name, All creditors of the estate of Robert Allen 7. Model 98 rifle. Serial number: 2xxx. Kristin Stephens Stanley N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) ACRE), AS PER PLAT OF SURVEY BY B. KEITH address and telephone number of the person Sands, deceased, late of Union County, Geor- 8. Rg 40 revolver. Serial number: R075xxx. Judge of the Probate Court ROCHESTER AND ASSOCIATES, INC. RS#1534 or entity who shall have full authority to negogia, are hereby notified to render in their Any party claiming an interest in said property By:Charla Dyer NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS DATED NOVEMBER 17, 1994 AND RECORDED tiate, amend, or modify all terms of the abovedemands to the undersigned according to is hereby further notified that you must file Deputy Clerk of the Probate Court IN RE: ESTATE OF Robert Marston Reynolds IN PLAT BOOK 32, PAGE 167, UNION COUNTY, described mortgage is as follows: law, and all persons indebted to law, and all a claim in accordance with O.C.G.A. 17-5-54 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 All creditors of the estate of Robert Marston GEORGIA RECORDS. Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, 500 N. persons indebted to said estate are required within 30 days of the fourth publication of the Blairsville, GA 30512 Reynolds, deceased, late of Union County, Tax Parcel ID: 070D-026 State College Blvd., Suites 1030, 1300 & 1400 to make immediate payment to the Personal Notice of Disposition of Unclaimed Property in Address Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their Being real property commonly known as 305 Orange, CA 92868 , Telephone No.: 800-561- Representative. the North Georgia News by serving said claim (706) 439-6006 demands to the undersigned according to SAW MILL ROAD BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 4567 This 26th day of June, 2026. to the undersigned seizing agency by certi- Telephone Number law, and all persons indebted to law, and all The debt remaining in default, this sale will be The foregoing notwithstanding, nothing in BY: April Churchwell fied mail, return receipt requested. The serial N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) persons indebted to said estate are required made for the purpose of paying the debt and O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2 shall be construed to 420 Silas Road numbers to the above listed items have been to make immediate payment to the Personal all expenses of this sale including attorney’s require Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC to Dahlonega, GA 30533 partially hidden, owner must be able to prove IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Representative. fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the ATTORNEY: Shelly Townley Martin which case the items were seized from or STATE OF GEORGIA This 7th day of August, 2026. having been given). Security Deed described herein. 133 Prominence Court Suite 210 have valid proof of purchase indicating the IN RE: ESTATE OF BY: Nancy Hamilton Reynolds Said sale will be made subject to the follow- Please be advised that the trustee may require Dawsonville, GA 30534 complete serial number. CYNTHIA JILL WHEELER 15 Kiloram Way ing items which may affect the title to said entity or trust bidders at this trustee’s sale to N(Jul22,29,Aug5,12) __Todd Smith_Deputy Sheriff DECEASED Blairsville, GA 30512 property: All restrictive covenants, easements provide information, documentation and/or Shawn Dyer,Sheriff ESTATE NO. 2026-135 ATTORNEY: Cary D. Cox and rights-of-way appearing of record, if any; certification of the vesting instructions and NOTICE Union County, Ga PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION PO Box 748 all zoning ordinances; matters which would the data required to be reported pursuant to Notice is given that the Application To Regis- 378 Beasley Street NOTICE Blairsville, GA 30514 be disclosed by an accurate survey or by an FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of ter A Business To Be Conducted Under Trade Blairsville, Ga. 3051 To whom it may concern: N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) inspection of the property; all outstanding or residential real property to covered transfer- Name, Partnership or Others which has been (706)439-6066- Dustin Wayne Rogers has petitioned to be unpaid bills and assessments for street im- ees on or after March 1, 2026. The required delivered to the Towns County Clerk of Court N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) appointed administrator(s) of the estate of NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER provements, curbing, garbage, water, sewage information must be provided to the trustee for filing. The undersigned does hereby certify Cynthia Jill Wheeler deceased, of said county. STATE OF GEORGIA and public utilities which may be liens upon before a deed under power will be issued for that Mountain Lakes Cabinetry, LLC. is con- IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of UNION COUNTY said property; and any outstanding taxes, covered transfers. The Buyer may be required ducting a business for profit in the County of STATE OF GEORGIA bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- assessments and other liens superior to the to pay charges associated with the gathering Towns, in the state of Georgia, under the name IN RE: ESTATE OF and/or grant of certain powers contained in tained in a Security Deed given by, Wesley security deed being foreclosed hereby. To the and reporting of information to FinCEN. Addiof “Lakeview Flooring & Tile” and that the PERCY JAMES FILLER O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons Cook and Sara Cook, to Mortgage Electronic best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, tional information regarding these regulations nature of the business is flooring and tile and DECEASED are hereby notified to show cause why said Registration Systems, Inc., as grantee, as the above-described property is in the posses- and the required transferee information and that the names and addresses of the corpora- ESTATE NO. 2026-47 petition should not be granted. All objections nominee for Cardinal Financial Company, sion of the borrower and/or other persons with certifications can be found at: tion, person, firms or partnership owning and NOTICE to the petition must be in writing, setting forth Limited Partnership, dated 3/28/2022, and the consent and acquiescence of the borrower. https://www.federalregister.gov/docucarrying on said trade or business is Mountain IN RE: The Petition to Probate Will in Solemn the grounds of any such objections, and must recorded on 3/30/2022, in Book 1306, Page Except to the extent that the Holder may bind ments/2024/08/29/2024-19198/anti-money- Lakes Cabinetry, LLC, 1341 US Hwy 76E, Hia- Form in the above-referenced estate having be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- 376, Union County, Georgia Records, as last and obligate Mortgagors to warrant title to the laundering-regulations-for-residential-realwassee, GA 30546 been duly filed. fore September 8, 2026. assigned to as last assignment to Carrington Property under the terms of the Security Deed, estate-transfers and https://www.fincen.gov/ STEPHANIE W. MCCONNELL [For use if an heir is required to be served by BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the Mortgage Services, LLC by assignment record- conveyance of the Property shall be made rre-faqs#D_5 ATTORNEY IN FACT FOR publication] petition must be in writing, setting forth the ed 4/16/2026 as Instrument No. D2026-001763 without any representations or warranties Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC as Attorney Mountain Lakes Cabinetry, LLC. TO: James Allen Filler grounds of any such objections. All objections in book 1449, Page 760, conveying the after whatsoever, express or implied. All sales are in Fact for Wesley Cook and Sara Cook N(Aug5,12) [List here all heirs having unknown addresses should be sworn to before a notary public or described property securing the payment of a “as is”, “where is’. For Foreclosure sale information please con- to be served by publication] before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Note in the amount of $379,335.00 with inter- The entire purchase price is due and payable tact Vylla Solutions, LLC, P.O. Box 3309, Ana- NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY This is to notify you to file objection, if there must be tendered with your objections, unless est thereon as set forth therein. at the conclusion of the auction in the form of heim, California 92803, Phone: (888) 313-1969 VALUE AT MORE THAN $75.00 is any, to the petition to probate will in solemn you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- NOW, THEREFORE, notice is hereby given that certified funds. Insufficient funds will not be TS # 26-41591 Pursuant to O.C.G.A 17-5-54, any party claim- form, in this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before tact probate court personnel for the required the entire indebtedness has been declared accepted. Amounts received in excess of the THIS COMMUNICATION IS FROM A DEBT COLing an interest in the following property is September 8, 2026. amount of filing fees. If any objections are due and payable as provided in said Secu- winning bid will be refunded to the success- LECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY hereby notified that on August 6th, 2026 said BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later rity Deed by the Holder, and by virtue of the ful purchaser. This property is being sold with INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR property was located in the evidence room petition must be in writing, setting forth the date. If no objections are filed, the petition may power of sale and authority vested in it, will on express reservation that the sale is subject THAT PURPOSE. of the Union County Sheriff’s Office in Union grounds of any such objections. All objections be granted without a hearing. 10/6/2026 sell at public outcry to the highest to 1) confirmation and audit of the status of N(Aug12-Sept30) County, Georgia. should be sworn to before a notary public or Kristin Stephens Stanley bidder for cash: 65 Courthouse Street, Blairs- the loan by the holder of the security deed, 2) Item before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Judge of the Probate Court ville, Georgia, the following described property confirmation that the sale is not prohibited 1. Remington model 742. Serial number: must be tendered with your objections, unless By: Charla Dyer situated in Union County, Georgia, to wit: under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, 3) procedures B7035xxx you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- Deputy Clerk ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LY- for rescission of sale under O.C.G.A. Section Legals continued 2. Stevens model 311. No serial number. tact probate court personnel for the required 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 ING AND BEING LAND LOT 226, 9TH DISTRICT, 9-13-172.1, whereby the Deed Under Power 3. Taurus model 85. Serial number: JP67xxx amount of filing fees. If any objections are Blairsville, GA 30512 1ST SECTION, UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA, CON- and other foreclosure documents may not be on page 9B 4. Iver Johnson rifle. Serial number: 015xxx filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later Address TAINING A TOTAL OF 1.700 ACRES AND BE- provided until final confirmation and audit of DYER’S DEPENDABLE SCOTT ARMSTRONG BRIAN WIGHT CON- ALL CLEAR WINDOW GUY’S JUNK REMOVAL: ECOSOUTH SOLUTIONS: HOME IMPROVEMENTS: HOME REPAIR: Fully STRUCTION: Specializing in WASHERS - Commercial & Big or small, we take it all! We Commercial Wastewater Sys- Deck repair or replacement and Insured, Home Repairs and Leaking Basements, Founda- Residential - Free Estimates do all the loading, hauling & tems. Residential Septic Instalstaining. Interior and exterior Renovations. Any Homeowner tion Structural Failures, Septic - Reasonable Rates (828) 371- cleanup. You name it, we haul it! lation. Erosion Control. Creek & painting. Roof to foundation Needs. Paypal/Zelle Accepted. System New and Repairs. Lo- 3936 or (706) 781-5585. NT(Jul24,ufn) We do Estate Sales, Attics, Base- Shoreline Restoration. Licensed repairs, plus interior remodel- Accepted. Text (Preferred) or cally Building for 45 Years. ments, Garages, Foreclosures, & Insured. Free Consultations. ing. Grading and retaining walls. Call 706-897-8614. N(May29,ufn) Call 706-897-5600. NT(Jul19,ufn) IFIXIT PC REPAIR ON THE etc. Call Robert Guy 706-835- Serving North Georgia. Call Lawn Care, Mowing, Weedeat- GO: Call us at (762) 525-0288 5371. NT(Jun19,ufn) today to discuss your project! ing, Mulching, Aeration, lime FRIENDS MOVING COM- COMPLETE PLUMBING & for Services, Price estimates, and (706)400-8145 N(Jul29,ufn) and fertilization, overseeding. PANY: Local and Long Dis- ELECTRICAL: Residential, any questions. We are the only UGLY CONCRETE? COVER (706) 745-1201. N(Apr22-ufn) tance. Credit cards accepted Commercial, Free Estimates, PC repair business in the area IT! Decorative concrete coat- TONY GUY ROOFING: 706- 706-896-7720. 1-888-794-0526 Locally Owned, Operated, 35 that offers at-home services such ings: epoxy’s, acrylics, over- 487-0723 Over 35 years experi- RAY’S RENOVATIONS: Re- MCA 210640. NT(Jul8,ufn) Years Experience. All Work as: Repair, Computer Speed-Up, lays, protective sealers, con- ence, free estimates. Shingles, modeling, House Painting, Car- Guaranteed. Repairs, Remodel- Virus Removal, Computer Les- crete levelers. Lic & Ins. for 43 metal, Àat roofs, screw replacepentry, Pressure Washing, Finish FRESH CUT: Lawncare, Land- ing, New Construction. Stephen sons, and Gadget Installation years. uglyconcretecoverit.com ment. Also pressure wash your Basements and More! 30 Years scaping, Trimming, Mulching Hunt, 706-897-8639 or 828-342- (Printers, Speakers, Webcam, and facebook. 706-896-4560. metal roof, clean gutters, sell Experience! Free Estimates! & Leaf Blowing. Call 706-897- 5531. N(Aug31,ufn) etc.) Visit our website at: www. NT(Sept20,ufn) gutters, screen and put them on. Call 706-897-2287. N(Jul17,ufn) 5369. N(Jun18,ufn) i¿xitpcrepair.com NT(Oct22-ufn) 5 year guarantee on all labor. THOMAS PAINTING INTE- N(Jun24,ufn) FURNITURE HERMOSO ABSOLUTE CUSTOM RIOR/EXTERIOR. Pressure CABIN CARE washing. Houses, decks, drive- M O N T G O M E RY C O N - SERVICE & ways, fences, boat docks, much CRETE - Serving Blairsville Inside and Out Painting, Staining, Roof & Gutter Care REPAIR & LANDSCAPE more. Family owned and oper- ated. 706-994-7681. NT(July29-Aug19) since 1997. Concrete, slabs, driveways, patios. Call 706-781- Pressure Washing & Soft Wash Available REFINISHING JOSE HERMOSO Find me on 1806. N(Jul1-Aug26 Routine Maintenance Plans Serving locals over 25 years Local and Long Distance Movers 781-1566 706.400.9065 706.897.4195 HOME ABSOLUTE Georgia Mountain Painting “North GA’s #1 Movers” Chair Doctor josehermoso73@gmail.com REMODELING COLOR FREE ESTIMATES REPAIRS 706-379-6683 Facebook Interior & Exterior Diana Howell LAWNCARE | TREE WORK | CARPENTRY Painting, Staining, 706-781-1652 thechairdoctor CONCRETE | PAINT | DECKS | REMODELING PRESSURE WASHING | & MUCH MORE Interior, Exterior, Pressure Washing, Deck Baths, Decks, Doors. Restore & Home Repair Painting, Trim, Collier Gravel Driveways Popcorn Ceiling Removal Commercial & Residential FREE Estimates! Erosion Control Floors & Installation Insured Insured! Electric David 706.897.5320 Serving Georgia since 1997 Water Drainage 706-970-7641 68absolutecolor@gmail.com Residential | Commercial *No Asphalt Jobs* Industrial and Controls Emergency Repairs Licensed & Insured Collins TREE SERVICE “Best in Quality, Service & Follow-up” Call Collin 478-396-1098 Trimming, Cut Down, Complete Clean-Up, collierelectric@aol.com Bucket Truck, Chipper, Stump Removal, Responsive Professional Punctual Lot Clearing, House Sites, 20 years experience Basements, Septic Systems, Backhoe, View Disaster BobCat, Dozier & Dump Truck Clearing Relief =I<<Û<klaeYl]kÛÝ@fkmj]ÛÝÛI]^]j]f[]k Removal Trimming CALL 706-897-2312 Property Under Cleanup Brushing Large Vehicles Free Estimates Road Services ALDERWOOD TREE SERVICE Recoveries 828.347.1909 24/7 Safe & Fast Towing in Blairsville LICENSED INSURED 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, Clearing, Grading, Hauling, Chipping Septic Installation Free Estimates • Insured Otis Knight, Owner BUSSELL’S MOBILE AUTO REPAIR Cell 706-781-7649 ROGER L. BUSSELL 153 New Jewell Mason Road Retaining Walls Blairsville, GA 30512 & Foundations BRENT’S HANDYMAN SERVICES New Homes Õ Additions Garages Õ Decks Wood Finish & Repair ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Tongue & Groove ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Flooring and Walls Tile Repair and Showers Drywall Repair and Flooring Acoustic Ceilings CALL 706-400-0316

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August 12, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9B shall accept the properties in their “AS-IS, AND CONTINUED LEGAL ADS FROM PAGE 8B WITH ALL FAULTS” condition, with all present and future faults or defects, and without any representation or warranty of the Petitioners or Parties in Interest. Said properties shall be Pets NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Edwin Gravatt NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Rowan Metcalf conveyed to the purchaser via fee simple deed without any warranties or representations as of the All creditors of the estate of Edwin Gravatt, All creditors of the estate of Rowan Metcalf, to title. deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all per- deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all per- A copy of this notice of sale has been given to the Petitioners and Parties in Interest as re- quired by Georgia law. Week sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partto said estate are required to make immediate to said estate are required to make immediate ners, PLLC, located at the business address payment to the Personal Representative. payment to the Personal Representative. of 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA This 7th day of August, 2026. This 31st day of July, 2026. 30004 is the entity that will conduct the public BY: Daryle Gravatt BY: Barbara Rosenstock sale, and may be further contacted at the con- 3197 County Road 507 325 Owen Glen Drive tact information below. Wildwood, FL 34785 Blairsville, GA 30512 THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLEC- ATTORNEY: Christopher Chapman ATTORNEY: Rebecca Kendrick TOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite 202 PO Box 1286 INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR Savannah, GA 31406 Blairsville, GA 30514 THAT PURPOSE. N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) N(Aug5,12,19,26) Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Part- ners, PLLC NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 IN RE: ESTATE OF Danny Lee Brown IN RE: ESTATE OF Lowell Wayne Brinton Alpharetta, GA 30004 All creditors of the estate of Danny Lee Brown, All creditors of the estate of Lowell Wayne Phone: 470-321-7112 deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are Brinton, deceased, late of Union County, Firm File No. 25-381130 hereby notified to render in their demands to Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their N(Aug5,12,19,26) the undersigned according to law, and all per- demands to the undersigned according to sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted law, and all persons indebted to law, and all NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE UNDER Bluey is a 4-year-old Meet Darcy! Sweet, to said estate are required to make immediate persons indebted to said estate are required POWER payment to the Personal Representative. to make immediate payment to the Personal UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA Cowboy Corgi (a Blue Heeler/ mellow, and smart, Darcy is This 7th day of August, 2026. Representative. THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY Corgi mix), and he is guaran- a medium Lab mix who loves BY: Matthew Conrad Brown This 31st day of July, 2026. INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR 3411 Spirit Lake Cutoff BY: Judy Ann Brinton THAT PURPOSE. teed to steal your heart the mo- kids, dogs, and cozy snuggles. Meet Meera, this 8 week Spirit Lake, ID 83869 160 Largen Road Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- ment you meet him. This sweet She’s house and crate trained, old bundle of fur is ADOR- ATTORNEY: Janna D. Akins Blairsville, GA 30512 tained in a Security Deed given by Raymond L. PO Box 923 ATTORNEY: Richard W. Sarrell II Fiore and Annette M. Fiore to Urban Financial boy has the biggest personality microchipped, and vaccinat- ABLE. No, we haven’t a clue Blairsville, GA 30514 PO Box 517 Group dated February 16, 2010 and recorded packed into his adorable little ed. Her adoption fee is 100% what she is other than certified N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) Blairsville, GA 30514 on February 23, 2010 in Deed Book 826, Page N(Aug5,12,19,26) 677, Union County, Georgia Records, and later body! If you’re looking for a sponsored by a loving alum- Cuddlebutt. Interested? See NOTICE OF MERGER assigned to LLACG Community Investment dog that will keep you smil- nus! more about her on our website Notice is given that (articles or a certificate NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Fund by Assignment of Security Deed recorded of merger) which will effect a merger by and IN RE: ESTATE OF Michael Richard Hill on April 10, 2026 in Deed Book 1449, Page 449, ing, laughing, and entertained www.castoffpetrescue.org between Peach State Bancshares, Inc., a Geor- All creditors of the estate of Michael Richard Union County, Georgia Records, conveying the gia Corporation and United Community Banks, Hill, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, after-described property to secure a Note in every single day, Bluey is your Inc., a Georgia Corporation, has been delivered are hereby notified to render in their demands the original principal amount of Five Hundred guy. to The Secretary of State for filing in accor- to the undersigned according to law, and all Three Thousand Four Hundred and 00/100 Doldance with the Georgia Business Corporation persons indebted to law, and all persons in- lars ($503,400.00), with interest thereon as Code. The name of the surviving corporation in debted to said estate are required to make set forth therein, there will be sold at public the merger is United Community Banks, Inc., a immediate payment to the Personal Repre- outcry to the highest bidder for cash before corporation incorporated in the state of Geor- sentative. the courthouse door of Union County, Georgia, gia . The registered office of such corporation This 31st day of July, 2026. within the legal hours of sale on September 1, is located at 289 South Culver Street, Law- BY: Linda M. Hill 2026 the following described property: renceville, GA, 30046 and its registered agent 804 Highland Crossing All that tract or parcel of land lying and being at such address is C T Corporation System. Blairsville, GA 30512 in Land Lots 48 & 61, 10th District, 1st Section, N(Aug12,19) ATTORNEY: Eddy A. Corn Union County, Georgia, containing 1.0 acre, 253 Big Sky Drive and being shown as Lot Twenty (20) of Duncan NOTICE Hiawassee, GA 30546 Mill, on a plat of survey by Lane S. Bishop & The Legacy Link, Inc. Area Agency on Aging N(Aug5,12,19,26) Associates, RS #1575, dated 5/20/92, recorded (AAA) is announcing the Request for Propos- in Plat Book 27 pages 140-142 Union County als (RFP) for the State of Georgia, Fiscal Year NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS records, which description on said plat is in- 2028 (July 1, 2027 – June 30, 2028). We are IN RE: ESTATE OF Marilyn E. Thomasson corporated herein by reference and made a accepting Statement(s) of Interest from or- All creditors of the estate of Marilyn E. Thom- part hereof. The property is conveyed subject ganizations September 8 – September 25, asson, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, to the restrictions recorded in Deed Book 197 Smooch needs a home! 2026. Please submit a Statement of Interest are hereby notified to render in their demands pages 697-702, amended in Deed Book 217 including your organization’s name, service to the undersigned according to law, and all page 403 and in Deed Book 255 page 88 Union This gorgeous 1 year old tuxprovided, counties of interest, and contact persons indebted to law, and all persons in- County records. edo girl is a perfect mix of Meet Gingerbread, she information. This Statement of Interest should debted to said estate are required to make The property is conveyed subject to the powbe emailed directly to Lisa Howard, Con- immediate payment to the Personal Repre- erline easement granted to Blue Ridge Moun- independent and affection- is just a year old and ready to tracts and Quality Director, at Lshoward@ sentative. tain EMC. Marmalade is a 2 month ate. She plays hide-and-seek, start her journey with you! legacylink.org. Respondents will receive the This 31st day of July, 2026. The property is subject to the reservation of schedule of events and the full RFP after the BY:Cindy T. Shearin a previous title holder of a road right of way old orange kitten with the loves cozy nap spots, and is Don’t forget to support Statement of Interest period has closed. Pro- 10 Stratford across the east line of the above described lot. great with other pets. Spayed, posals for one or more of the services listed Los Angeles, CA 90266 Said easement shall begin at the centerline of gentlest heart you could ever our critters at our weekly Binbelow in the following counties served by The Pamela S. Townsend Coosa Creek at the Northeast corner of said lot imagine. This precious little vaccinated, and ready for her go game on Wednesdays at 7 Legacy Link, Inc. will be considered: Banks • 9839 Pineola Drive and run thence S 5 45 17 W 185.33 feet to a forever person! Dawson • Forsyth • Franklin • Habersham • Orlando, FL 32836 point; thence in a Northwest direction of the girl has such a calm, loving PM; Doors open at 6 pm. Get Hall • Hart • Lumpkin • Rabun • Stephens • ATTORNEY: William D. Rhoads centerline on Coosa Creek, said point being personality that everyone who Apply at: www.safepet- the details on our website un- Towns • Union • White. Bid opportunities are PO Box 1098 West 30 feet from the Northeast corner of said project.org/adoption-agreeavailable for the following services within Gainesville, GA 30503 lot; thence East 30 feet to the Northeast corner meets her instantly falls in der Bingo! NT(Aug12,Z5)CA the region: Evidence-based wellness services N(Aug5,12,19,26) of said lot, to the point of beginning. love. Whether she’s curled up ment or call 706-400-7076 ext. 2. (bids may be to serve individual counties but Tax ID #: 072 105 must provide both programs): Bingocize, and STATE OF GEORGIA The debt secured by said Security Deed has in your lap or following you been and is hereby declared due because of, around with her sweet little Falls-Prevention - A Matter of Balance; Health Promotion / Disease Prevention Services (to be COUNTY OF UNION NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER among other possible events of default, failure to pay the indebtedness as and when due and purrs, Marmalade is happiest Union County Schools 7th & 11th provided throughout the region in the follow- Pursuant to the Order of the Superior Court ing categories: Nutrition Education, Lifestyle Management, Physical Activity, and Health of Union, GA dated July 15, 2026 in the mat- ter of PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC. vs. KATHY in the manner provided in the Note and Secu- rity Deed. The debt remaining in default, this when she’s with people. Grade Vaccinations Awareness/Disease Prevention); Senior Cen- ROSS; NIKITA ROSS; AND THE UNITED STATES sale will be made for the purpose of paying the Come to Mountain Shelter Services in Towns and/or Union County DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVEL- same and all expenses of this sale, as provided ter Humane Society Adoption Please be aware that all rising 7th and 11th grade students with all services provided at a location that OPMENT; Civil Action SUCV2026000055, which in Security Deed and by law, including attorcan support all of the following services: Con- inter alia, forecloses the right to redemption in ney’s fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s Center, Monday through Sat- will need a Meningitis vaccination in order to start the gregate Meals and Health Promotion/Disease the Security Deed executed by NIKITA S ROSS fees having been given). urday 9-4. NT(Aug12,Z6)CA 2026/2027 school year. Additionally, all rising 7th grade Prevention activities for older adults’ on-site AND KATHY E ROSS to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC Your mortgage servicer, Statebridge Company, participation, staging and facilitating delivery REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS GRANTEE, LLC, as servicer for LLACG Community Invest- students are required to have one (1) dose of TDAP vacof Home Delivered Meals, and Transportation- AS NOMINEE FOR HOMESTAR FINANCIAL CORP. ment Fund, can be contacted at 866-466-3360 or by writing to 6061 S. Willow Drive, Suite 300, Appalachian Duplicate cine booster. You will need to submit an updated im- Individual-Voucher Services to assist with in the original principal amount of $93,279.00 travel within the county. In addition, complete dated March 9, 2020, and recorded in Deed Greenwood Village, CO 80111, to discuss pos- Bridge Club News PXQL]DWLRQUHFRUGWRWKHVFKRRO·VIURQWRIÀFHDVVRRQDV intakes and assessments for all services, pre- Book 1186, Page 547, Union County records, sible alternatives to avoid foreclosure. pare and transmit reports, and store files per said Security Deed being last transferred to Said property will be sold subject to any outthe US Department of Health and Human Ser- PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC. in Deed Book standing ad valorem taxes (including taxes On Monday, August possible. Please note that your student will not be able vices, Georgia Department of Human Services, 1306, Page 10, Union County records, the un- which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), 3rd, five and one half tables to attend school until an updated immunization form has as required, following all HIPAA compliance dersigned as authorized by said Court Order, any matters which might be disclosed by an laws. All providers must be fully licensed to will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder accurate survey and inspection of the prop- of the Appalachian Duplicate been received. perform the service being provided and meet for cash, before the Courthouse door in said erty, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, Bridge Club played a Howell HIPAA compliance requirements. Details for all County, or at such other place as lawfully zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, the service requirements can be found within designated, within the legal hours of sale, on and matters of record superior to the Security movement at the Clay County Please call your child’s healthcare provider or the Union the GA DHS Policy and Manual Management 9/1/2026, the property in said Security Deed Deed first set out above. Senior Center in Hayesville, County Health Department to get an appointment for your System at https://pamms.dhs.ga.gov/das/ and described as follows: To the best knowledge and belief of the unhcbs-5300-manual/. ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING dersigned, the parties in possession of the NC. Ray Ferree and Jim Bell child’s vaccines. The Health Department’s phone number NT(Aug12-Sept2) AND BEING IN THE 10TH DISTRICT, 1ST SEC- property are Estate of Raymond L. Fiore Sr. aka were the first place winners TION, LAND LOT 27 OF UNION COUNTY, GEOR- Raymond L. Fiore or tenant(s); and said prop- is 706-745-6292. NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS GIA, CONTAINING 0.93 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, erty is more commonly known as 161 Duncan with a score of 65.81. Joyce IN RE: ESTATE OF Raymond C. Rumplik AND BEING LOT 4 AS SHOWN ON A SURVEY BY Mill Road, Blairsville, GA 30512. Geiger and Sue Wall came All creditors of the estate of Raymond C. Rum- ROCHESTER & ASSOCIATES, INC. DATED JULY The sale will be conducted subject (1) to conplik deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, 24, 1996 AND RECORDED IN UNION COUNTY RE- firmation that the sale is not prohibited under in second place with a score are hereby notified to render in their demands CORDS IN PLAT BOOK 40, PAGE 63. SAID PLAT the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final con- of 63.56. Third place went to to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons in- IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE HERETO, FOR A FULL AND COMPLETE DESCRIP- firmation and audit of the status of the loan with the holder of the security deed. John Franklin and Ann Craw- GENDER EQUITY IN SPORTS debted to said estate are required to make TION OF THE ABOVE PROPERTY. LLACG Community Investment Fund as Attor- ney in Fact for Annette M Fiore aka Annette ford with a score of 62.5. Robimmediate payment to the Personal Representative. THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO AND BENEFITS FROM MATTERS AS SHOWN IN THE ABOVE REF- Fiore and Raymond L. Fiore Sr. aka Raymond ert Tolliver and Lucy Kizirian State law prohibits discrimination based on This 24th day of July, 2026. ERENCE PLAT OF SURVEY. L. Fiore BY: Russel C. Rumplik THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO AND BENEFITS McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC finished in fourth place with a gender in athletic programs of local school 5492 Pine Crest Road FROM A PRIVATE ROAD MAINTENANCE AGREE- 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 score of 61.88. Young Harris, GA 30582 ATTORNEY: Lawrence S. Sorgen MENT AND EASEMENT AGREEMENT AS RE- CORDED IN DEED BOOK 844, PAGE 626, UNION Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 On Thursday, August systems (Equity in Sports Act, O.C.G.A. 20- MTG File No.: 26-002599-01 6th, four and one half tables PO Box 67 Hiawassee, GA 30546 COUNTY RECORDS. THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS TO N(Aug5,12,19,26) 2-315). Students and Parents/Guardians are BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN EMC AS RECORDED IN were in play and the How- N(Jul29,Aug5,12,19) DEED BOOK 279, PAGE 42 AND DEED BOOK 279, IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA ell movement was used. First KHUHE QRWLÀHG WKDW 8QLRQ &RXQW 6FKRRO APPLICATION TO REGISTER A BUSINESS TO BE PAGE 44, UNION COUNTY RECORDS. CONDUCTED UNDER A TRADE NAME, PART- THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO A RIGHT-OF- IN RE: ESTATE OF place honors went to Joe Wald System does not discriminate on the basis of NERSHIP, OR OTHERS WAY TO UNION COUNTY AS RECORDED IN DEED LILLIE FRANCES PUETT and Jim Bell with a score of DECEASED STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF UNION BOOK 126, PAGE 67, UNION COUNTY RECORDS. Said property being known as: 71 GOLDEN ESTATE NO. 2026-139 43.5. Frank Fulford and Judy gender in its athletic programs. The Sports The undersigned does hereby certify that Sari RIDGE RD, BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION NOTICE Aube finished in second place (TXLW&RRUGLQDWRUIRU8QLRQ&RXQW6FKRRO Smith conducting a business as Elowen Grace To the best of the undersigned’s knowledge, Abernathy in the City of Blairsville, County of the party or parties in possession of said prop- To whom it may concern: with a score of 42.0. Third Alicia Ann Miller has petitioned to be ap- Union in the State of Georgia, under the name of Elowen Grace Abernathy and that the nature erty is/are NIKITA S ROSS AND KATHY E ROSS or tenant(s). pointed administrator(s) of the estate of Lillie place went to George and Vic- 6VWHPLV 0UV0DQG+XQWHU8QLRQ&RXQW of the business is writing, publishing, blog- Said property will be sold subject to the fol- Frances Puett deceased, of said county. (The toria Tucker with a score of ging, editing, literary and creative services, lowing: (1) any outstanding ad valorem taxes petitioner has also applied for waiver of bond, 41.5. Ray Ferree and Ann Mc- Schools Athletic Director • 153 Panther Circle and related business and that the names and (including taxes which are a lien, whether or waiver of reports, waiver of statements, and/or addresses of the persons, firms, or partnership not yet due and payable); (2) the right of re- grant of certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons are hereby Cauley rounded out the day’s • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2216. owning and carrying on said trade or business demption of any taxing authority; (3) any mat- winners in fourth place with a are: N/A, pen name for individual use. ters which might be disclosed by an accurate notified to show cause why said petition N(Aug12,19) survey and inspection of the property; and should not be granted. All objections to the score of 39.0 All winners from (4) any assessments, liens, encumbrances, petition must be in writing, setting forth the IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF UNION COUNTY zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, grounds of any such objections, and must be both days received points to- STATE OF GEORGIA IN RE: William Tate Asherbranner and any superior security deeds or matters of record. filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before September 8, 2026. ward Life Master status. PUBLIC NOTICE BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the The club plays every and , Minor Child(ren) Said sale will be conducted subject to the fol- lowing: (1) confirmation that the sale is not petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections Monday and Thursday at the ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN Civil Action File No. 26-CV-257-RG prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; NOTICE OF PETITION TO CHANGE NAME and (2) final confirmation and audit of the sta- should be sworn to before a notary public or Clay County Senior Center before a probate court clerk, and filing fees The Union County School System’s AHERA Management Plan Georgia, Union County tus of the loan with the holder of the Order to must be tendered with your objections, unless beginning at 12:30 p.m. Lunch Notice is hereby given that Sara Elizabeth Nix, foreclose. is available for public inspection upon request at the Union the undersigned, filed this Petition to the Su- No representation, warranty or guaranty, ex- you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- is available for each game perior Court of Union County, Georgia on the press or implied, oral or written, shall be given tact probate court personnel for the required County Board of Education • 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, amount of filing fees. If any objections are as long as you sign up in adday of , 20, praying for a change in the name of regarding (a) the condition or state of repair *$7KLVQRWLÀFDWLRQLVSURYLGHGWRIXOÀOOWKHUHTXLUHminor child(ren) from William Tate Asherban- of any improvements on the properties, (b) the filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later vance. If you need information ner to William Tate Nix, and from to . use, generation, storage, release, disposal or date. If no objections are filed, the petition may ment of section 763.93 (4) of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Notice is hereby given pursuant to law to any presence of any pollutants, contaminants or be granted without a hearing. about the games or a partner, interested or affect party to appear in said other dangerous substances upon, beneath Kristin Stephens Stanley please contact Ray Ferree at Response Act, 40 CFR Part 763, October 30, 1987. All inter- Court and to file objections to such name or near the properties, (c) compliance of the Judge of the Probate Court By: Charla Dyer 850-384-3642 or email him at ested parents, teachers, employees, or other persons are invited change. Objections must be filed with said properties with any applicable law, regulation Court within thirty days of the filing of said or ordinance, including, but not limited to, any Deputy Clerk raygfer1430@gmail.com. to review the plan, which includes the following items: Petition. land use, zoning or environmental regulation 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 NT(Aug12,Z14)CA This 27th day of July 2026. or building code, or (d) any other matter re- Blairsville, GA 30512 1. Location, amounts and types of asbestos-contained materials Sara Elizabeth Nix garding the condition of the properties; (ii) Address Petitioner, pro se N(Aug5,12,19,26) the Petitioners or Parties in Interest are not obligated to alter, repair, or improve the Prop- (706) 439-6006 Telephone Number S.A.F.E. in all schools and support buildings. 2. Response actions to the asbestos-contained materials selected N(Aug5,12,19,26) erties in any manner; and (iii) any purchaser Board Meeting by the Union County School System. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ARFS: The next meeting of the Board of Directors of S.A.F.E. 3. Plans for re-inspection, periodic surveillance, and operation and maintenance programs. EMPLOYMENT AND Give Your (Support in Abusive Family Emergencies, Inc.) will be Au- 3XEOLF1RWLÀFDWLRQSURFHGXUHV Anyone interested in reviewing this plan should contact the EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Pain Purpose gust 18, 2026 at 5:30 PM. Call 706-379-1901 for location. NT(Aug12,Z3)CA %RDUGRI(GXFDWLRQRIÀFHDW Union County School System does not discriminate on the basis If you have lost a dearly of race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, or loved pet and your heart is age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to grieving, why not “give your RIGHT TO REQUEST PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. This notice ex- pain purpose” by making a tends to employment decisions or educational programs and ac- donation to Animal Rescue (NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND) “RIGHT TO KNOW” tivities, including its athletic programs. Any student, employee, Financial Support (ARFS) in Union County School System receives Federal Title I (Improving The Academic Achievement applicant for employment, parent or other individual who be- honor of your cherished fur Of The Disadvantaged) and Title II (Teacher Quality) funds. As a participant in Title I and Title lieves he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimina- friend. ,,IHGHUDOSURJUDPVZHPXVWPHHWIHGHUDOUHJXODWLRQVUHODWHGWRWHDFKHUTXDOLÀFDWLRQVDVGHÀQHG tion by other students or employees of the school system based ARFS will use your do- in the Every Student Succeeds Act. These regulations allow you to learn more about your child’s upon any of the factors listed above should promptly report the nation to provide medical care teachers’ training and credentials. We are happy to provide this information to you. same to the school principal of the school, or the appropriate for an animal that is suffering and has an owner who cannot At any time, you may ask: coordinator as listed below. Students may also report harass- ment or discrimination to any staff member or school volunteer. afford veterinary expenses. Whether your student’s teacher— Students and employees shall not be subjected to retaliation for Memorials can be made • KDV PHW 6WDWH TXDOLÀFDWLRQ DQG OLFHQVLQJ FULWHULD IRU WKH JUDGH OHYHOV DQG VXEMHFW DUHDV LQ to ARFS, P.O. Box 972, Hia- which the teacher provides instruction; reporting such harassment or discrimination. wassee, GA 30546 or on ARFS The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries website (www.arfs-inc.org) by • LVWHDFKLQJXQGHUHPHUJHQFRURWKHUSURYLVLRQDOVWDWXVWKURXJKZKLFK6WDWHTXDOLÀFDWLRQRU regarding the nondiscrimination policies. clicking the DONATE button. licensing criteria have been waived; and Christal Chastain – Title II of Americans with Disabilities Act Please indicate that your dona- • LVWHDFKLQJLQWKHÀHOGRIGLVFLSOLQHRIWKHFHUWLÀFDWLRQRIWKHWHDFKHU 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2322 tion is a memorial and provide the name of your pet. Memori- • :KHWKHUWKHFKLOGLVSURYLGHGVHUYLFHVESDUDSURIHVVLRQDOVDQGLIVRWKHLUTXDOLÀFDWLRQV Leigh Wood – Title VI of the Civil Rights Act als will be posted on ARFS’s Our staff is committed to helping your child develop the academic knowledge and critical thinking 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2322 website, unless you request he/she needs to succeed in school and beyond. That commitment includes ensuring that all our Jason Shadden – Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act otherwise. teachers and paraprofessionals are highly skilled. 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2322 Let’s not forget that If you have any questions about your child’s assignment to a teacher or paraprofessional, please precious pet that gave you so contact the principal of your child’s school. All necessary contact information can be found on the Mandy Hunter – Sports Equity Coordinator much joy. Let’s give your pain school’s website at www.ucschools.org. 153 Panther Circle • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2216 purpose! NT(Aug12,Z2)CA

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Page 10B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 12, 2026 Cruise-In at the Square Aug. 15 & Pistons & Pitmasters at Copperhead Lodge Aug. 22 This past Weekend the Blairsville Cruisers attended two Car Shows. The first was at Valley River Chevrolet in Murphy, NC where they had a Pet Rescue Event. We then departed to Jacky Jones Jeep/ Ram in Hayesville, NC for their Customer Appreciation — A 55+ COMMUNITY — Event. We had a great time at both shows enjoying great music, fellowship and delicious food. Next Saturday, August 15th, join us at the Square in Blairsville from 2-5 PM.  HOMES, The following Saturday, August 22nd, join us at STARTING AT $315,000 the Copperhead Lodge at 171 Copperhead Pkwy., Blairsville, GA for the Cruise In & ARE MOVING FAST. Cook Out Show, Pistons & Pitmasters 10 AM - 4 PM. For ACT NOW! show cars, registration begins at 9 AM, Awards at 3:30 PM. Win Big with the 2006 card or visit local partners Cop,” and “Shop with a Hero,” Raffle Truck: This year’s raffle United Community Bank and ensuring no child goes without features a pristine 2006 Ford Batteries Plus+ in Blairsville. during the holidays. Addition- Ranger FX4 with less than Tickets are also available from ally, the club awards three 20,000 original miles. For any club member and at all annual scholarships to local a $10 donation, tickets now live events. technical and trade school stuoffer three chances to win: Cruising for a Cause: dents. Grand Prize: The Ford Ranger Every ticket serves a higher The Blairsville Cruisers FX4 or $5,000 Cash; Second purpose. Since 2007, The is a 501(c)(3) non-profit orga- Prize: $1,000 Cash; Third Blairsville Cruisers have nization dedicated to the pres- Prize: $500 Cash. raised an average of $50,000 ervation of classic automotive How to Enter: Buying annually to support local chil- culture and the support of chiltickets is easier than ever. Pur- dren and veterans. Proceeds dren and Veterans in Union, chase online at BlairsvilleC- fund vital programs like “Shop Towns, Clay and Cherokee ruisers.com via credit/debit with a Cruiser,” “Shop with a Counties. Celina: 706.745.5565 wesleymountainvillage.org LOCATED A MILE AND A HALF FROM THE SQUARE IN BLAIRSVILLE. UNG Summer 2026 Graduates graduated For the summer 2026 Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business semester, the University of Pathway; Kaylee Deyton grad- uated with an Associate of Sci- Administration in Accounting; and Adaelyn Postell graduated Need Blueprints? West Printing Company North Georgia (UNG) award- ence in Interdisciplinary Stud- With Distinction with an Assoed more than 400 degrees and ies Pathway; and Sarah Walker ciate of Science in Education certificates to graduates. graduated Magna Cum Laude Pathway, both of Morganton; Local graduates include: with a Bachelor of Science in and Alexis Starling of Young Sierra Burnette graduated Kinesiology with a Concentra- Harris graduated with an As- For all your large format printing needs! with an Associate of Science tion in Health & Fitness all of sociate of Science in Behavin Interdisciplinary Studies Blairsville; and Evan Osterc ioral Sciences Pathway. 266 Cleveland Street 1. RUGER 45 ACP 2. HENRY BIG BOY 30/30 3. GLOCK G19 9MM 4. WEATHERBY ORION SHOTGUN 12/30/3 5. S&W .44 MOUNTAIN GUN 2 blocks up from the Square on 129 706-745-6343 6. WINCHESTER SXP 7. RUGER WRANGLER 8. RUGER .308 20” 9. KIMBER MIDNIGHT 10. TITAN SHOTGUN westprinting@windstream.net TURKEY SHOTGUN COMBO CUSTOM SEMI-AUTOMATIC 14. BROWNING A5 15. REMINGTON 700 11. S&S .380 BODYGUARD 12. TIKKA T3X 13. KEL TEC 22 LR HUNTER SHOTGUN RIFLE 17. RUGER 10/22 20. KIMBER MICRO 9 16. SIG SAUER 365 FUSE 18. S&W 442 38 SPL. 19. ROSSI 360B 20” RIFLE 22 LR CINDER 21. CHARTER ARMS 22. RUGER AMERICAN 24. HENRY 22 LR 23. TAURUS 9MM 25. S&W M&P 22WMR .357 TARGET REVOLVER 22WMR STANDARD RIFLE 26. SAVAGE ARMS 27. HENRY BIG BOY 28. BROWNING HUNTER 29. S&W 10MM 30. RUGER AMERICAN 410 SHOTGUN REVOLVER .308 RIFLE FPC RIFLE 45ACP Drawing when Full Service Printer all tickets are sold Business Cards • Business Forms • Notecards Invitations • Blue Prints • Rack Cards • Posters 2026 Stamps • Labels $30 per Ticket gives you THIRTY Full Color printing at rock bottom prices! Appalachian Shrine pp Chances to Win!! Only 1,200 Tickets will be sold!! Fast, Professional Service Tickets are available from any Shriner or at Alexander’s Store. This is not a hospital charity fund raiser. Donations are not tax-deductible. 706-745-6343 *Photos of guns picture may differ from the actual product. :LQQHUPXVWEHHOLJLEOHDFFRUGLQJWRDOOVWDWHDQGIHGHUDOODZVWRSRVVHVVDÀUHDUP 4482 Town Creek School Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Club Blairsville, Georgia l Guns are to be picked up from our generous sponsor within 30 days of draw date westprinting@windstream.net