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 19, 2026 City talks condemnation, roadwork & subdivisions By Shawn Jarrard clearance to satisfy FAA safety meeting, City Hall had North Georgia News requirements for the airport. negotiated easement purchases editor@nganews.com Acquiring the property IRU WZR SDUFHOV OHDYLQJ ÀYH A condemnation reso- rights will also enable the properties outstanding: 610 lution, the impending Blue airport to start on a long- Kiutuestia Creek Road, 65 Ridge Street Improvement awaited runway leveling Adams Drive, 456 S River Project, subdivision regulations project to remove the currently Road, 1580 Blue Ridge Hwy, and new crosswalks made the displaced threshold by raising and 0 Airport Industrial Road. agenda for the Aug. 11 regular the runway at one end, an According to City meeting of the Blairsville City HIÀFLHQFPHDVXUHGHVLJQHGWR Attorney Marvin Harkins, the Council and Mayor Robert minimize the air space the city goal is to negotiate purchases “Buddy” Moore. needs to obtain. for the remaining properties as The city has been in the Six parcels require well. But just in case, council process of obtaining property air easements to clear trees members voted on Aug. 11 to rights – primarily air easements and keep them clear in the adopt a resolution authorizing – for seven parcels located future, while one property condemnation regarding the in close proximity to the will need total acquisition to VSHFLÀFSURSHUWLHVOLVWHGDERYH Blairsville Municipal Airport. accommodate grading and the E s s e n t i a l l y, t h e Mayor Moore said that, removal of a small building on resolution states the city’s based on Federal Aviation the west side of the runway – all determination that there is an Administration guidelines, to improve landing and takeoff “immediate need” to acquire the acquisitions have become conditions for pilots. WKH LGHQWLÀHG SURSHUWLHV DQG Blairsville City Council Members Rhonda Mahan, Kayla Hemphill and Tony Dyer voting on necessary to provide adequate A s o f l a s t w e e k ’s See City of Blairsville, Page 4A an action item at their Aug. 11 regular meeting. Photo by Shawn Jarrard Husband dies, wife injured Citizens Academy reviews in GA 515 vehicle accident different divisions at UCSO By Shawn Jarrard By Brittany Holbrooks North Georgia News North Georgia News editor@nganews.com Staff Writer A Blairsville man died The Union County and his wife was seriously Sheriff ’s Office Citizens injured in a two-vehicle crash Academy continued with its the evening of Thursday, second of five sessions on Aug. 13, at the Georgia 515 Thursday, Aug. 13, at the intersection of Gabriel Drive Union County Schools Training in Union County. Room. The evening featured an According to authorities, overview of different UCSO Gordon Reid Saunders, 85, divisions and highlights of and his wife Sandra, 77, had interesting cases handled by just picked up their pet dog each. from a grooming business Deputy Eddie Henderson inside Victoria’s Center and emceed, kicking things off with were leaving at the time of the what law enforcement is and accident. the challenges officers face Georgia State Patrol Gordon Reid Saunders was driving this Kia Soul during the in their careers. For example, troopers responded to the crash fatal car crash last week. He later died from his injuries at SHDFHRIÀFHUVDUHKHOGWRKLJKHU at 5:29 p.m. According to the Union General Hospital. standards than average citizens, preliminary investigation, the serious injuries, according to Gordon was a devout Christian and they witness tragedies and experience trauma at a higher UCSO Lt. Shane Burnette touched on the responsibilities of accident happened when the GSP; her condition was not and was active in their church.” the Uniform Patrol Division in the Aug. 13 Citizens Academy 2015 Kia Soul driven by Mr. known at press time. A memorial service rate. “The main goal is to class. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks Saunders attempted to make a The driver of the truck will be held at a later date left onto SR 515 from Gabriel did not sustain any injuries, per when Sandra recovers and improve the lives of people WRZKDWWKHRIÀFHUVKHUHLQWKLV Investigations Division. There Drive. *63$GGLWLRQDOO WKH 1RUWK will be announced. In lieu of or society,” Henderson said, county do.” DUH ÀYH GHSXWLHV DW &ULPLQDO Failing to yield, Mr. *HRUJLD1HZVKDVOHDUQHGWKDW flowers, the family requests referring to law enforcement as Serving as the first Investigations, including Saunders turned into the path of the pet inside the Kia was also that donations may be made to a craft that is honed over time presenter that evening was Brackett, and in 2025, 482 a 1998 International 4000 that unharmed. the Humane Society Mountain by individuals and agencies. C a p t . D o u g B r a c k e t t , cases were divided among was traveling east on SR 515; According to his obituary, Shelter in Mr. Saunders’ “Tonight we’re transitioning ... commander over the Criminal See Citizens Academy, Page 5A the front of the large work truck Saunders “loved spending time memory. then struck the driver’s side of with his wife, Sandi, his family the Kia, according to GSP. Mountain View Funeral and their two dogs, Tootsie and Home of Blairsville is in charge Mr. Saunders succumbed Jack.” of the arrangements. People may The Terraces Townhomes to his injuries at Union General “They loved all animals,” sign the family guestbook and Hospital, while Mrs. Saunders the obituary continues. “He was send condolences online at www. ZDVÁRZQWR1RUWKHDVW*HRUJLD a loving and caring husband, mountainviewfuneralhome. ready for buyers in Phase 1 Medical Center with suspected father and grandfather … com. UCSO makes three drug DUUHVWVRQWZRWUDIÀFVWRSV By Shawn Jarrard North Georgia News editor@nganews.com Two separate traffic stops resulted in three drug arrests on Friday, Aug. 14, as motorists from neighboring areas traveled through Union County. Georgia State Patrol LQLWLDWHGRQHRIWKHWUDIÀFVWRSV for speeding on US 129 S in the area of Blood Mountain. Union County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the The Terraces will be an intentional small community of 57 spacious townhomes by the time scene, where a search was it is completed, with home reservations available today. conducted that found 17.5 News Special community people love being are selecting homes, building grams of methamphetamine, The Terraces Townhomes a part of.” construction begins in early 20 hydrocodone pills and 7.5 KDVRIÀFLDOOHQWHUHG3KDVHRI Developed b y 1RYHPEHUDQGWKHÀUVWRZQHUV grams of marijuana within the development, which means LedgerLiving, The Terraces are projected to move in during stopped vehicle, said UCSO 14 homes are selling now. will ultimately deliver 57 April 2027. 1DUFRWLFV&DSW7OHU0LOOHU And Ed Oravetz, who is the homes across four phases to “Readers who want a Trevor Phicko Ross, 48, managing member for the keep construction manageable KRPHLQWKHÀUVWSKDVHVKRXOG and Heather LeeAnn Coleman, new subdivision going up at DQG OHW WKH FRPPXQLW ÀOO LQ be talking to us now rather than 37, both of Mineral Bluff, 67 Shoe Factory Road, has an over time, rather than all at waiting for a sign to go up.” were arrested on drug-related important message for potential once. And everything starts Anyone interested charges. homebuyers. with Phase 1 and the 14 homes may call 706-407-4111, visit Ross was also charged “I really want people that are ready to be reserved theterracestownhomes.com with driving on a suspended to know we are building a today. and attend a Community license and speeding, while community, not just homes,” “This is not a proposal Information Meeting scheduled 7KH8QLRQ&RXQW6KHULII·V2IÀFHFRQÀVFDWHGWKHVHGUXJV Coleman, who was wanted out Oravetz said. “This is well or a concept,” Oravetz said. for Tuesday, Sept. 1, from DIWHUDWUDIÀFVWRSODVWZHHN See UCSO Drug Arrests, Page 5A thought out and will be a “Phase 1 is active, buyers See The Terraces, Page 2A Vol. 117 No. 35 Union Co. High School Fall Sports Special Section See Inside Arrests - 2B .GICNU$ Church - 5B Obits - 7B NOTICE: County Meeting Time & Venue Change See Page 10A %NCUUKČGFU$ 5RQTVU# Opinion - 6A Institute for Continuing Learning Fall Schedule See Page 3B Turn your home into Your home’s equity is powerful—let us put it to work with a HELOC (Home Equity Line United Community Bank Blairsville 177 Hwy 515 W Blairsville, GA 30512 your dream home, ofGetCredit) from United Community. flexible funds when you need them. with a HELOC. Learn more at ucbi.com/heloc. 6
Page 2A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 DeBARTOLO CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC DR. FRANK DeBARTOLO The Terraces ...from Page 1A covered porch, providing about 900 square feet of additional ÀQLVKHGVSDFH “Buyers are not choosing between a builder grade version and an upgraded version of the CORRECT THE CAUSE 5:30-7 p.m. in the ballroom of dues are set at $200 per month. Phase 1 starts in the high same house,” Oravetz said. THE FIVE MOST DANGEROUS WORDS the Union County Community However, the developer is $300,000 range, with the same “Optional upgrades exist, but Center. providing a generous subsidy quality features available in WKHVWDQGDUGKRPHLVDÀQLVKHG MAYBE IT WILL GO AWAY To r e g i s t e r f o r t h e of $125 per month toward every home, including but home.” Stiffness Headaches meeting, go to https://www. standard dues for approximately not limited to 2x6 exterior Oravetz is happy to Tingling Neck-Arm Pain eventbrite.com/e/19972660 WKH ÀUVW PRQWKV ZKLOH WKH wall construction and 9-foot walk anyone through pricing, Numbness Low Back-Leg Pain Pinched Nerve Slipped Disc 61555?aff=oddtdtcreator. community is being built out. FHLOLQJV RQ ERWK WKH ÀUVW DQG availability, and the reservation Alternatively, people may scan People will undoubtedly second floors; shared walls process directly: “The fastest 706-745-1677 2635Years YearsExperience Experience the QR code embedded within be pleased to hear that short- this article to be taken directly term rentals are prohibited in built as dual 2x6 walls with WZRKRXU ÀUH UDWHG VKHDWKLQJ way is a phone call or the website.” By Appointment to the registration page. The Terraces, though long-term and Rockwool insulation Be sure to sign up for the $ 3HOE &ACTORY 2OAD 3UITE s "LAIRSVILLE '! ´7KHVLWHSODQÁRRUSODQ rentals will be allowed with EHWZHHQXQLWV PHWDOURRÀQJ Sept. 1 information meeting exterior and interior renderings, a minimum lease term of 90 GE stainless appliances; to learn more about this and the four interior design days. This policy ensures that and multiple smart home intentional small community Healthy Minds for Better Lives, Inc. packages will be on display The Terraces remains “a place capabilities. that is within walking distance (Sept. 1),” Oravetz said. to live.” Further, each unit will be of the Blairsville Square and Does the FDA approve of Kratom? “Members of the team will be “The decision to prohibit there to answer questions about short-term rentals was made available in one of four curated interior design packages just a short drive to all the best features that Union County and United States Senator Ron Wyden sent a letter 8/3/26 to Jerry Ross from Botanic Tonics, the homes, the construction deliberately and early, before covered by the base price of WKH 1RUWK *HRUJLD 0RXQWDLQV stating that their statement on their company’s homepage, “ANNOUNCEMENT: timeline, pricing, and the the first home went under the home. have to offer. FDA reinforces safety of natural leaf kratom” is “a false statement that in no way reflects the FDA’s position on kratom. The FDA has never reinforced the safety of natural leaf homeowners association.” contract,” Oravetz said. “The packages cover kratom.” In fact, he states that “there are no prescription or over-the-counter drug As to how The Terraces “Buyers are purchasing into SDLQWÁRRULQJFDELQHWVFDELQHW products containing kratom or its known alkaloids that are legally on the market in adds to the local housing stock, a community of owners and hardware, countertops, doors, the U.S. Kratom is not appropriate for use as a dietary supplement. FDA has warned the community is built around long-term residents, and they tile, plumbing fixtures, and consumers not to use kratom because of the risk of serious adverse events, including liver toxicity, seizures, and substance use disorder.” Newborns experienced withdrawal signs single-level primary living. know that going in.” OLJKW À[WXUHV VR WKH KRPH LV following prolonged exposure to kratom prior to birth. See our website for the full letter. That means the owner’s suite, Upon completion, the ÀQLVKHGDVDFRRUGLQDWHGZKROH kitchen, living space, and subdivision will consist of 36 rather than a list of individual healthymindsamerica.wixsite.com/healthy-minds laundry are all on the main standard homes at 1,700 square decisions,” Oravetz said. floor, with the upper floor IHHWDQGKRPHVZLWKÀQLVKHG For the benefit of Scan this QR code to be available but not required for walk-out basements. Finished homebuyers, all four taken to the Event Brite daily life. basements include a bedroom, interior design packages are registration page for the Sept. GENDER EQUITY IN SPORTS Upstairs, these homes full bathroom, living or bonus included, not upsold, Oravetz 1 Community Information will offer plenty of room for area, storage and a walk-out emphasized. Meeting. State law prohibits discrimination based on guests and/or multimember gender in athletic programs of local school systems (Equity in Sports Act, O.C.G.A. 20- households, with two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and ´ÁH[ VSDFHµ WKDW RZQHUV FDQ Historical Society reminisces 2-315). Students and Parents/Guardians are KHUHE QRWLÀHG WKDW 8QLRQ &RXQW 6FKRRO XVHDVDVPDOORIÀFHVWXGRU storage. Communal amenities of the “Old Country Store” inside The Terraces will By Jayne Jones include a pond, a dog park, Union County System does not discriminate on the basis of a playground, and a covered Historical Society gender in its athletic programs. The Sports pavilion; walking paths; a Before there were the central mail kiosk; and lawn “Big Box Stores” in our coun- (TXLW&RRUGLQDWRUIRU8QLRQ&RXQW6FKRRO care, curbside trash service, ty, old country stores were the exterior building maintenance go-to places here in Blairs- 6VWHPLV 0UV0DQG+XQWHU8QLRQ&RXQW a n d e x t e r i o r g r o u n d s YLOOH1RWRQOZHUHWKHSODF- Schools Athletic Director • 153 Panther Circle maintenance, to be handled by es to stock up on supplies, but the homeowners association. a venue for numerous social • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2216. Standard association gatherings. In the heart of Blairs- ville today, there are numerous quaint shops around the square and beyond where visitors can purchase a wide variety of items, plus have opportunities to socialize. Our Downtown Development Authority and Chamber of Commerce are doing a wonderful job keeping this tradition alive. Butt Cook Store on the Blairsville Square “Mercantile Memories” by Joan Hawley Drake, Union County Historical Society Born in Connecticut, a Yankee, Seated in old wooden chairs. They would once announce of me, Pursing the sweetness of a But by the grace of God a “local” striped peppermint stick, I am now proud to be. Glistening in a glass candy jar, Given the task of putting together Now your eyes wander over a calendar of places I To those grape Nehi soda pops, Have never seen or been, Displayed in a corner not very far. Has sparked my imagination As I listen to the “stories and yarns” Sometimes a traveling nurse came I am hearing people, “tell and spin”. To these remote country havens, Giving mountain children medical shots, Country store, on old country roads, While the aroma of peanuts boiling outside, Several in this Union town, <HOORZÁDPHVOLFNLQJWKHERWWRPVRI Twenty to be exact, is what we have found Those large black crusted pots. Most are gone, except for a few, Sunrise Groceries and Alexander’s :RRGHQÁRRUVZRRGHQFHLOLQJV are two Gurley’s in Suches, may have These rooms were not lit very bright, fallen into disrepair, However, looking at all the Restored and renamed, yes, it is still there. forgotten faded photos Most country stores were a Look closely at these photographs, much welcoming shining delight. Let your senses take control And hopefully a fond memory Leaning against long counters, Tucked in the back of your mind Wicker baskets and brooms standing in a row Will soon unfold. :LWKVDFNVRIÁRXUFRIIHHEHDQV And other supplies Can you still feel the warmth Ready to be towed. From that potbellied stove, Public Notice As the smell of coal dust Now up on the buck board Union County Board of Education ÀOWHUVWKURXJKWKHDLU And the tense concentration of checkers Soon you will be As the old mare leads the wagon home Union County Schools offer the following Career, Technical, & Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways Being played by two men To imaginable memories. for all students regardless of race, color, or national origin, including those with limited English proficiency, sex, or disability in grades 8-12: " / " & YHC Campus Cupboard hosts / "& / " 0 %"& / " 0 %1 community food distribution Aug. 26 / " 0 %2 / " 0 % munity distribution dates are: UMC, and the Food Bank of / 1 "& & 6HSW 2FW 1RY 1RUWKHDVW*$ / 2 "& / !1 & Dec. 30. All events start at 5:30 p.m. $ CASH 4 $ / 3 “This is a great oppor- $ $ " tunity to reach out to the lo- $ Antique/Barn $ cal community in support,” $ $ / % / Daniels said. “It provides $ $ Tools $ / 2 45%& 6% $ / 7 6% much-needed relief for those $ Old Tractors $ / & struggling right now. With ev- $ & Wagons $$ / 8 erything else, you shouldn’t $ have to be worried about hav- $ $ Labosco’s at the / ing something to eat.” $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ 9 4 & "& $ $ / : "& The Campus Cupboard $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ 2 is a joint effort of YHC Reli- $ 706-745-0097 $ / % 4 :" 2 7 / % 4 : A community food dis- gious Life, Sharp Memorial CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! / % 4 :% 7 tribution will be Wednesday, 2 % & Aug. 26, at 5:30 p.m. at the PUBLIC NOTICE / 2 % ; & < & Campus Cupboard, Young / " '< Harris College’s new food / bank. / && / 8 = 4 %& The Campus Cupboard, located in the middle of the The City of Blairsville Mayor and 7> : % % 7 & YHC campus, was recently Council will hold a Called Meeting established as a campus food / % = 0 pantry to serve both students on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 6:00 / " & 4 and the local community. The PM in the Council Room, located / "4 " & 4 distribution point will be set / ; % 8 >+ 0 up on Duckworth Street, just within Blairsville City Hall, at 62 Blue past Sharp Memorial United > & % ' Methodist Church, as you pull Ridge St, Blairsville, GA. The public is % 5 . into the campus. invited to attend. The purpose of this ? "= “We are so excited to ?@ A offer this resource, not only meeting is to discuss and consider <5 & % . to our Mountain Lions here at YHC, but for the local com- the following items: munity as well,” said Rev. % = @ A Adam Daniels, YHC campus 1.) Approve RFQ for Downtown chaplain. “The pantry is lo- Infrastructure Projects 72 <B cated on campus and open to & @ A the students throughout the semester. We have monthly 2.) Approve Downtown Blairsville C DEF community distribution dates Master Plan G @ A for the local area.” The upcoming com-
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3A 76th Georgia Mountain Fair BLAIRSVILLE 38 BACKYARD LANE, HWY. 515, NEXT TO THE BOWLING ALLEY WWW.BLAIRSVILLECINEMA.COM CINEMA continues thru Saturday, Aug. 22 FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 - THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 706-745-1000 Movies and/or show times are subject to change By Delaney Derry BRINK OF WAR PG SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY PG13 Angel Studios FRI, SAT & SUN: 1:10, 3:40, 6:50 North Georgia News MON - WED: 1:00, 3:30, 6:40 FRI & SAT: 11:00, 1:40 Staff Writer SUN: 11:00, 1:40 THUR: 3:30, 6:40 HIAWASSEE – Fun at MON - WED: 1:00 THUR: 1:00 THE RIVALS OF AMZIAH KING R the fair is underway as the Starring Matthew McConaughey & Kurt Russell FRI, SAT & SUN: 11:00, 4:10, 6:40 annual Georgia Mountain Fair PAW PATROL: THE DINO MOVIE PG MON - WED: 1:00, 4:00, 6:40 returns to the Georgia Mountain FRI, SAT & SUN: 11:00, 1:30, 4:10, 6:40 THUR: 1:00 Fairgrounds for a week of rides, live music, crafts, food and MON - WED: 4:00, 6:30 COYOTE VS. ACME PG THUR: 4:00, 6:30 THURS, AUGUST 27TH: 1:00, 4:00, 6:40 family entertainment. 1RZFHOHEUDWLQJHDUV at the fairgrounds, this year’s fair carries a patriotic theme of red, white and blue in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. The festivities began Thursday, Aug. 13, with a )) *. special opening-night concert featuring Hannah Harper, the latest winner of “American Idol,” who is preparing to tour with Brad Paisley. Due to inclement $"#/ղ weather, organizers had to make a change to the original opening-night plans. Rides Performing during the 2026 Georgia Mountain Fair, Puppy Pals LIVE is “a family fun actionwere unable to operate the packed show where adopted and rescued dogs perform spectacular stunts and breathtaking night before, so it was decided feats.” Photo by Lowell Nicholson to delay the carnival opening WKHÀQDOIHVWLYDODQGQRRWKHU O v e r t h e w e e k e n d , t h e and spend money to help the to allow for additional safety events.” H i a w a s s e e G a r d e n C l u b economy and help the city,” inspections. The concert, Today, the fairgrounds hosted a three-day Flower Thomason said. however, went on as planned, host concerts, festivals and Show where participants With its mix of providing an early start to the other events throughout the entered floral arrangements mountain traditions, new week’s entertainment. year, while the annual fair for judging. entertainment and traditional The pre-opening concert is a relatively new addition to remains one of its largest attractions. A n d t h e G e o r g i a carnival favorites, the Georgia Mountain Fair Parade proved Mountain Fair continues a 76- ֢ԼԵԻ֣ԾԼԵևԷԵԻԵ the fair, and it proved to be a This 76th annual fair DVSRSXODUDVHYHUZLWKÁRDWV year tradition while looking popular one, with more than features 68 vendor booths, classic cars and more making toward the future of more with only 18 returning vendors, their way down Main Street family fun. ԶԻի ''/ $ 2 .. լ ԸԵԺԹԻ 1,600 tickets sold for Harper’s performance. Thomason said providing returning fairgoers Hiawassee, which was lined Harper is already preparing to an opportunity to check out 50 with spectators. return to Hiawassee for next new vendors in 2026. Visitors A juried Photography RIGHT TO REQUEST PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS year’s fair. can browse a wide variety of E x h i b i t a n d d i s p l a y s 7KHIDLU·VJURZWKUHÁHFWV crafts and goods while enjoying highlighting local history in (NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND) “RIGHT TO KNOW” a larger transformation at the carnival rides, games and Pioneer Village also allow fairgrounds over the years. traditional fair food. visitors to experience the region Union County School System receives Federal Title I (Improving The Academic Achievement General Manager Hilda The week’s schedule beyond the fairgrounds. Of The Disadvantaged) and Title II (Teacher Quality) funds. As a participant in Title I and Title Thomason has worked at the includes the Miss Georgia For Thomason, however, ,,IHGHUDOSURJUDPVZHPXVWPHHWIHGHUDOUHJXODWLRQVUHODWHGWRWHDFKHUTXDOLÀFDWLRQVDVGHÀQHG fairgrounds since 1991 and has Mountain Fair Pageant, which the fair is about more than in the Every Student Succeeds Act. These regulations allow you to learn more about your child’s watched the number and variety happened after press time entertainment. The events are teachers’ training and credentials. We are happy to provide this information to you. of events expand well beyond Monday; carnival rides through part of the fairgrounds’ larger At any time, you may ask: the annual August fair. Saturday; games; concerts; and mission to draw visitors to the plenty more until the fair ends mountains. Whether your student’s teacher— “There’s been a lot of growth,” said Thomason. Aug. 22. “Our whole purpose for • KDV PHW 6WDWH TXDOLÀFDWLRQ DQG OLFHQVLQJ FULWHULD IRU WKH JUDGH OHYHOV DQG VXEMHFW DUHDV LQ “When I started here, all we Visitors can find the being in business – we’re a which the teacher provides instruction; had was the 12-day fair in complete schedule at https:// QRQSURÀW RUJDQL]DWLRQ ² LV WR • LVWHDFKLQJXQGHUHPHUJHQFRURWKHUSURYLVLRQDOVWDWXVWKURXJKZKLFK6WDWHTXDOLÀFDWLRQRU August, and then we had one georgiamountainfairgrounds. promote tourism here in the licensing criteria have been waived; and weekend in May with the com/. mountains and bring people Spring Festival, and I had The fair’s attractions up here to stay in the hotels • LVWHDFKLQJLQWKHÀHOGRIGLVFLSOLQHRIWKHFHUWLÀFDWLRQRIWKHWHDFKHU one weekend in October for extend beyond the midway. and eat in the restaurants, buy • :KHWKHUWKHFKLOGLVSURYLGHGVHUYLFHVESDUDSURIHVVLRQDOVDQGLIVRWKHLUTXDOLÀFDWLRQV Our staff is committed to helping your child develop the academic knowledge and critical thinking he/she needs to succeed in school and beyond. That commitment includes ensuring that all our teachers and paraprofessionals are highly skilled. If you have any questions about your child’s assignment to a teacher or paraprofessional, please contact the principal of your child’s school. All necessary contact information can be found on the school’s website at www.ucschools.org. KING WHERE WE TREAT YOU LIKE ROYALTY The historic Georgia Mountain Fair returned for its 76th year this past weekend, to continue with carnival rides this week and full resumption of fair activities inside the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Thursday through Saturday. Photo by Lowell Nicholson The iconic Georgia Mountain Fair Parade rolled through Hiawassee Saturday, featuring GR]HQVRIÁRDWVFODVVLFFDUVDQGRWKHUHQWUDQWVOLNHWKH7RZQV&RXQW/LRQV&OXEZKLFK hosted past participants and winners of the Miss Georgia Mountain Fair Pageant. Photo by Lowell Nicholson NOTICE The Union County Substance Abuse Grant Committee is hereby requesting proposals to address the problem of alcohol and drug abuse in Union County. The funds for this grant are made possible by license fees and tax receipts from alcohol sales in Union County. Applications will be available starting on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, and will remain available through Friday, September 4, 2026. Questions regarding applications may be directed to Jennifer Mahan at 706-439- 6000 or executive@uniongov.com. Call our sales team at 800.388.2897 $SSOLFDWLRQVZLOOEHDYDLODEOHLQWKH8QLRQ&RXQW&RPPLVVLRQHU¶V2I¿FH located at 65 Courthouse Street, Suite 1, Blairsville, GA 30512 or via the & visit kingfordsales.com to learn more Union County Government Homepage at www.unioncountyga.gov. Applications are due by Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 4:30 pm. 2450 us hwy 64, murphy, NC 28906 Late applications will not be accepted.
Page 4A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 cell: 706-781-7945 City of Blairsville ...from Page 1A MINDY ALLEN TEAM further, authorizes the use Mindy Allen / Ria Storm of condemnation to obtain 253 Hwy 515 East, Suite B, Blairsville GA Assoc. Brokers/Sisters property rights via eminent 706-745-8097 50 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE! domain if needed, Harkins said. “That does not mean that RARE Opp in TRACK- the idea is to condemn these ROCK. 3/3 home w/0- SURSHUWLHVµ +DUNLQV FODULÀHG STEP ENTRY! 1800+ htd “We have been negotiating sq ft, 2 Ht Pumps, VT with different property owners Casting gas log stove in for the past month or so. It is Great rm. High ceilings, the intention – the hope – to be many windows! SS able to successfully negotiate appl, granite c-tops! BIG with folks without having to MBR, jetted tub. #434305 condemn anything. City Accounting Clerk Amberly Fell and Mayor Buddy Moore REDUCED! $375,000 “But we can’t use the at the Blairsville meeting last week. Photo by Shawn Jarrard MUNDY MILL Township tool of condemnation without crosswalk at City Hall. resources, etc.,” Harkins said Opp! Townhome Located passing this resolution, so it ,PSRUWDQWORIÀFLDOVDUH in July. “The (as-yet undrafted) btw Gainesville & Oak- simply gives another tool in aiming to keep one lane open subdivision regs will address wood. 4BR/2.5 BA, Great Room w/ corner gas the toolbox.” throughout the project and said all that.” log fplc, LVP Àooring, According to state law, that all businesses in the work Councilman Tony Dyer SS appl, solid c-tops. the city must wait 30 days from area will remain open amid remarked in the meeting 1660 SQFT. $1200 HOA passage of the resolution before construction, though City Hall last week that he wanted to AMENITIES. #421030 ÀOLQJDQFRQGHPQDWLRQV²LILW parking will be closed. Colditz minimize any new subdivision REDUCED $315,000 were to come to that, which the will be doing much of the work regulations to lessen the impact Affordable MTN Living. city is aiming to avoid, Harkins at night to minimize traffic on property rights. Arrowhead Valley RV reiterated. impacts. Also Aug. 11, the council Resort lot #48 w/2018 And since the airport is More information will be greenlit the installation of a Montana High Country located outside city limits, the available to the public after the brand-new crosswalk on Blue 331RL rig. 4 season Union County Commissioner’s preconstruction meeting. Ridge Street. First Baptist Lvg Pkg. 3 slides w/ 2IÀFHLVEHLQJDVNHGWRFRQVHQW In other business, the Church requested the crosswalk covers, 2 AC units, to the resolution so it can take council was supposed to hold and will be paying to install it. W/D,King bed. Decks/ effect. a first reading Aug. 11 for The new crosswalk will Shed, furnishings. Toward that end, Harkins new subdivision regulations span Blue Ridge Street from the #432081 $140,000 hand-delivered a copy of after imposing a moratorium First Baptist Church parking the city resolution to Sole last month on the acceptance lot to the area in front of and Commissioner Harold Collins’ o f a p p l i c a t i o n s f o r l a n d between Union County Public office the morning after the disturbance and building Library and Vallant Bank, meeting. He included a cover permits “for work on properties where people already park to letter requesting that Collins of 1 or more acres” inside city cross the street for Sunday adopt a consenting resolution, limits. services. as well as a draft county But Harkins said that First Baptist asked resolution to ease the process. when he went to work on for crosswalk permission to Another big topic of drafting the regulations, he improve pedestrian safety for meeting discussions was the ran into multiple situations attendees of its popular Sunday Blue Ridge Street Improvement he felt required council input. services, and also because it is Project, with an approved action 6R LQVWHDG RI D ÀUVW UHDGLQJ planning to expand the church, item ratifying the contract the council scheduled an Aug. which will take up parking for Blairsville-based Colditz 25 work session that will be space, meaning more people Trucking – the low bidder on devoted to filling in specific will be parking elsewhere to the project – to get started as blanks for Harkins. walk. soon as possible. As previously reported, Once the crosswalk is Colditz will complete the Blairsville has no subdivision installed, churchgoers who park Blue Ridge Street overhaul for regulations for multifamily at the library and bank, which $1,018,740.53, primarily to be dwellings under five units, are closed on Sundays anyway, paid with SPLOST proceeds. a n d t h e m o r a t o r i u m i s will be able to walk across Blue The city has scheduled an Aug. a l l o w i n g B l a i r s v i l l e t o 5LGJH6WUHHWDPLGVDIHUWUDIÀF 20 preconstruction meeting to research options for higher- conditions. iron out certain project details, density developments for all Looking ahead, council and work is expected to begin subdivided properties inside the members will be considering shortly thereafter. city moving forward. the church’s request for another Downtown traffic will Getting such regulations new crosswalk on Earnest be greatly disrupted during in place will set limits on what Street near the intersection of construction, as Blue Ridge happens when a developer Georgia 515, as attendees also Street will be resurfaced from subdivides property to create park at Bank OZK and walk to the square to Earnest Street; the residential or commercial First Baptist on Sundays. sidewalks in that corridor will subdivisions. Lastly, the council and be rehabilitated; stormwater “The idea is that going mayor held an executive drainage will be repaired at from one parcel to many session to discuss the property Visit our website, AtlantaRVMegaShow.com Merchants Walk and City Hall; means you go from one use acquisition process for the for a list of RVs on sale at the show and an elevated crosswalk/ to many uses, including more airport, after which council & links to Dealer websites AtlantaRVMegaShow.com speed table will be installed as trips on the road, more use m e m b e r s i m m e d i a t e l y a safety upgrade to the existing of law enforcement and EMT adjourned the meeting. Licensed in GA & NC c: 706-897-0956 NEW LISTING o: 706-222-5588 KarynWoody.com karynwoody@mountainsir.com Virtually Staged 490 Copperhead Road | Blairsville, GA Offered at $449,000 • MLS #435016 Ranch-style home on one acre between Blairsville and Blue Ridge. 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JUST SOLD Virtually Staged 382 Lola Mae Way | Morganton, GA Now Offered at $495,000 • MLS #434521 Inviting 3-bedroom, 3-bath ohome in a gated community with cathedral ceilings, stone fireplace, main-level iv living, spacious loft, finished lower level, covered porches, oversized two-car garage, and neighborhood pond Gated Lake Nottely lot with water views near downtown Blairsville. Listing Agents: Robert Rogers • 706-897-0962 | Tina McDaniel • 706-713-6004
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5A Citizens Academy ...from Page 1 Force. Miller himself has been with UCSO for 19 years, LQFOXGLQJLQ1DUFRWLFV them. Most of those cases come Georgia, and is a Marine Corps Investigations, specializing in Miller shared the from 911 calls, though some do YHWHUDQ +H WDFNOHV ÀQDQFLDO technological and sex-based story of a local drug dealer’s result from direct reports. crimes and holds a regular scam crimes. apprehension before answering Brackett highlighted a awareness and prevention class. Pilote introduced questions about narcotics cases local theft case solved using Calling his presentation the audience to the case of and asset forfeiture. Guns and flock cameras that tracked the “Reader’s Digest” version a local individual arrested vehicles seized from drug the perpetrator across county of his hour-and-a-half class, for possession of “child cases typically go to auction to and state lines. In doing so, he educated attendees about pornography.” That term is in supplement UCSO funds. Brackett wanted to show how some common scams that have the process of being legally When a citizen expressed useful that technology has been been reported in the community changed to child sexual displeasure at letting certain in cracking down on certain and how to avoid them. The abuse material, or CSAM, amounts of drugs go in the crimes. He even assuaged some case Calamari highlighted to eliminate any pretense of pursuit of building cases against fears by explaining that the involved a woman defrauded consent. Despite common dealers, Miller and Sheriff cameras are only accessed by of $87,000 in an online scam; belief, most CSAM content 6KDZQ 'HU FODULÀHG WKDW LQ FHUWLÀHG ODZ HQIRUFHPHQW DQG fortunately, Calamari helped is of pre-pubescent children order to establish guilt, enough do not track phones. recover $37,000 for her. rather than teens. evidence must be compiled to Sgt. Bob Calamari was Sgt. Marc Pilote warned Capt. Tyler Miller is hold up in court. next up to the podium. So far, the audience that some children RYHU WKH 1DUFRWLFV 'LYLVLRQ Lt. Shane Burnette is a he has served three years at the with access to technology are ,QFOXGLQJ0LOOHUWKH1DUFRWLFV SDWURORIÀFHU+LVEDFNJURXQG 8QLRQ&RXQW6KHULII·V2IÀFH in danger even from the safety Division is made up of three includes service in the U.S. UCSO Sgt. Marc Pilote spoke about his duties within the but he has about 29 years of of their own bedrooms. Pilote people, and one of those Army immediately after high Criminal Investigations Division, where he has worked for law enforcement experience has served nine of his 12 years investigators has been attached school, and he completed law nine of his 12 years in law enforcement. between California, Florida and in law enforcement in Criminal to the FBI Safe Streets Task enforcement training in 1995. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks He has been with UCSO since Last but not least, Deputy According to statistics UCSO Drug Arrests ...from Page 1A 2015. Wo r k i n g p a t r o l means seeing “a little bit of Steve Bennett talked about he provided, 2025 saw 910 WUDIÀFHQIRUFHPHQW7ZRHDUV total crashes in Union County, ago, he was asked to work with 214 injury crashes and everything,” as the Patrol with the Governor’s Office four fatal crashes. Compared Division serves as “infantry” of Highway Safety, where he to other counties in Georgia, DQGLVRIWHQWKHÀUVWWRDQVZHU helps educate the public on Union County’s fatalities are calls. Patrol deputies are also on highway safety. relatively low. the front lines of helping their Bennett has spoken on “We look forward to community, which could mean driver safety at Union County seeing everybody next week. I anything from driving someone 6FKRROVEHIRUHDQGLVFHUWLÀHGWR appreciate y’all doing this, and home from the hospital when help parents in the community we’ll be ready for some more they have no family to running learn how to properly install good stuff next (Thursday),” a lost goat off the highway. and use car seats. Dyer said in closing. Trevor Phicko Ross Heather LeeAnn Coleman Lloyd Anthony Queen RI1RUWK&DUROLQDIRUSUREDWLRQ from the vehicle, establishing removing as many drugs as violation at the time of her probable cause for a search possible from the streets of arrest, was additionally charged that turned up a felony amount Union County, regardless of for not having drugs in their of marijuana, for which Queen where they are coming from. original container, per UCSO. was charged, Miller said. All individuals are A l s o F r i d a y, L l o y d Such arrests line up with presumed innocent until proven Anthony Queen, 45, of Sheriff Shawn Dyer’s goal of guilty in a court of law. Young Harris, was stopped for speeding in the Union County portion of Gumlog Road, Miller said. American Red Cross The sheriff ’s deputy smelled marijuana emitting Seeking New Volunteers $ CASH 4 $ $ $ $ Antique $ $ $ $ Trucks & Cars $ $ $ Tractors! $ $ Make a difference in ber of other roles that make our Not Running & Rusted $ $ your community! As a volun- communities safer, stronger $ Pre-1950’s $ teer with the American Red and more resilient. Get started $ Labosco’s at the $ Cross, you can help families re- at https://www.redcross.org/ $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ FRYHUDIWHUDKRPHÀUHWUDLQLQ- local/georgia/volunteer.html or $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ $ $ GLYLGXDOVLQÀUVWDLGDQG&35 FDOORXU1:*$FKDSWHURIÀFH $ 706-745-0097 $ support America’s military to ask about volunteer opportu- families, or take on any num- nities 844-536-6226. CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! Proud to be on your team for every play of the game. Blairsville 177 HWY 515 E 149 Bracketts Way Member FDIC. © 2026 United Community Bank | NMLS# 421841 | ucbi.com
Page 6A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 Opinions Everybody has one... Radio Communications Not About Luck From Your Commissioner Communication is the key to success. Whether it be an or- Louis Weertz was a high school boxer. Some disconcerting Every community has a place where people gather to celeganization, business, or relationship, good communication is es- injuries from that sport motivated him to pursue another, quite EUDWHOLIH·VKDSSLHVWPRPHQWVVXSSRUWRQHDQRWKHUGXULQJGLIÀFXOW sential. Communications are especially important in public safety, different interest - piano. times, and strengthen the bonds that make a hometown special. where seconds count and lives may be on the line. Union County Weertz enjoyed playing a fusion of jazz, classical, and pop, Union County has several places that make that possible. public safety organizations view radio communications as a prior- but his college only allowed classical music. They caught him Consider Meeks Park, Choestoe Schoolhouse, and the ity, and that is why, in 2019, all Union County public safety organi- playing the pop tune “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes,” and expelled Community Center. One place that some folks still don’t know zations utilized SPLOST (Special Pur- him. Nevertheless, he persisted. His about is the Pat Haralson Memorial pose Local Option Sales Tax) funding Fire Dept. performance at the Hotel Madison All Things Civic Center. Located in the heart of Union to switch from an analog radio format from Union impressed one of the guests, David New Blairsville, the Civic Center is much County to a digital radio format. County Kapp. Kapp Records immediately more than a county-owned building. Commissioner Although we had improved and Fire Chief signed the pianist and gave him the It is a gathering place where clubs and upgraded the aged analog equipment David stage name, Roger Williams. Wil- Wayne organizations gather to share BINGO Harold over the years, changing to a digital Dyer liams was one of the most popular Fowler nights, to hold Yard Sale events, and Collins format has been the most profound ad- musical entertainers during the mid- make presentations to large numbers vancement in radio communications since we started using radios. 20th century. of people. From community meetings and fundraisers to arts and :HQRZKDYHPRUHFDSDEOHUDGLRVERWKLQWKHÀHOGDQGDW8QLRQ I heard Williams speak and conduct a seminar at my col- crafts shows, weddings, family reunions, dances, and educational County 911 Dispatch. lege back in the day. He said (my paraphrase), “People think to programs, the Civic Center has welcomed generations of residents One of the major reasons for the change was the required make it in the music industry, you have to be lucky. That’s not through its doors. It also houses the UGA Extension Service, the “narrow-banding.” Radios work off frequencies which are licensed all of it. You have to be prepared and ready when luck happens.” Farm Service Agency, the Natural Resource and Conservation by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). In the past, It’s not surprising that hard work and preparation are pre- Services, the Union County Community Service, the CSRA Prothe FCC would allow us to use 25 kHz, and we had decent commu- requisites for success in the music industry. It makes sense that EDWLRQ 6HUYLFH DQG WKH WK 'LVWULFW 2SSRUWXQLW 2IÀFH ,WV VSDnications in most of the county. However, due to the need for more unexpected opportunities can look like luck and contribute to cious auditorium, conference rooms, and kitchen make it one of IUHTXHQFLHV WKH )&& VWDUWHG QDUURZLQJ WR N+] HIÀFLHQF success. But be careful trying to apply the idea of luck to the the most versatile public facilities in our county. technology, which reduced our capabilities. The FCC is planning to Christian life. To do so hints at doing things for God rather than The building proudly bears the name of Pat Haralson, one possibly narrow band again to 6.25 kHz in the near future. joining in the things God is doing. The difference is who does the of Union County’s respected attorneys, civic leaders, and public The old analog system transmitted data in the form of a wave. preparing and doing. servants. Haralson devoted much of his life to improving Union The narrower the band, the less likely the radio transmission would The founder of Samaritan’s Purse, Bob Pierce, used the County, serving in the Georgia General Assembly while promotwork properly. The narrow banding produced issues with range and WHUP´*RGURRPµ+HVDLG´*RGKDVWRÀOOWKDWVSDFH²WKDWURRP ing better roads and infrastructure that helped connect our mounclarity of communications on the analog waveform system. There ²EHWZHHQZKDW·VSRVVLEOHDQGZKDW+HZDQWVGRQHWKDW·VLPSRV- tain community to the rest of the state. His commitment to public were multiple places where we had limited to no communications sible. That’s what I mean by God room.” Pierce recognized the service left a lasting legacy, and the Haralson family’s generosvia radio after the narrow banding. limitations of human vision, resources, and effort and welcomed ity—including the donation of property associated with the Civic A digital system carries data in the binary form and works at the providence of God in accomplishing His purposes. The Bible &HQWHU³FRQWLQXHVWREHQHÀW8QLRQ&RXQWGHFDGHVODWHU a narrower frequency bandwidth. These radio transmissions are in says, “You do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You The Civic Center gives Union County residents a place to the form of “0s” and “1s” like a computer. When a person talks into are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes come together. Facilities like the Pat Haralson Memorial Civic a digital radio, the voice is converted to digital format; transmitted away. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live Center remind us that government is about more than providing on a frequency; received at another radio; then the digital signal is and also do this or that’” (Jas. 4:14-15). services. It is about creating opportunities for people to connect, converted into voice to be heard. The signal is clear, without static, Jesus used the verbal imagery of a vineyard to express this volunteer, celebrate, and invest in one another. Those relationand has a greater range. We now have communications in places we idea in a very personal way. He said, “I am the vine, you are ships are what make Union County such a remarkable place to previously didn’t with the analog system. the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much call home. The radio equipment and the digital format provides clearer fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). As the The main auditorium requires a $25 deposit and it costs See Dyer, page 7A See Fowler, page 7A See Collins, page 7A Toxic Tendencies II Chamber 2026 Being around toxic individuals is painful Welcome to the “Summer Doldrums.” and risky. They have certain personality traits You know, that time of year when summer is althat can be harmful, such as: most over, you’ve taken that last summer trip, 1. Ignoring boundaries—The toxic person the kids are back in school, and everyone is will disrespect the personal boundaries of oth- looking forward to Labor Day and that three-day ers. As far as they are concerned, their boundar- weekend. Oh yeah, and the stores have already ies are the ones that received their fall matter. Successful inventory—even Blairsville - Union 2. Negative Mental though it’s still 90 Health County outlook—Toxic in- degrees outside! Chamber dividuals are nega- Dr. James And as we make President tive about life, and Ray Ashurst our way through they pass this atti- PH.D. these “Summer Steve Rowe tude to others. They Doldrums,” rememare negative self-talk people. ber—fall is just around the corner! 3. Jealousy—Toxic individuals are jealous We would like to thank Alex Forbes of the of the good things that happen to others. They FOX 5 Storm Team for speaking at our Power seek to discredit the happiness of their victims. Lunch last Friday. Alex not only presents the They don’t want the other person to enjoy the weather on television, but he is also the brave spotlight of their achievements. soul you see out in the middle of the storm, help- 6HOÀVKQHVV³7R[LF SHRSOH SODFH WKHLU ing keep us safe and informed. Thanks, Alex, for SHUVRQDO QHHGV ÀUVW 7KH IHHOLQJV RI RWKHUV DUH sharing your time and expertise with us! just not that important. Everything is one-sided If you’re looking for something fun to do, on behalf of the toxic individual. be sure to check out the Chamber calendar for 5. Lacks empathy—Don’t expect the toxic upcoming events. Grandaddy Mimm’s will be See Ashurst, page 7A See Chamber, page 7A Letters to the Editor May the LORD Judge... Running with the Boys Lawn Planting Mountain Mornings May the LORD Judge Between You and Me My running days have been over for quite Tall Fescue is the type of grass that I rec- Did you know? In July, France, always some time, so when I say “running with the ommend the most often for lawns here. Howev- Dear Editor, known as a staunchly Catholic Christian coun- boys,” I actually mean doing something with a er, it is a cool season perennial. That means that An early morning drive in our beautiful try, passed a bill entitled, “A Right to Aid in group of friends. And I am sure you know that its management is going to be different from North Georgia mountains is very rewarding. Dying.” France has 2,000 Catholic Churches, most of the time when I refer to the boys, I mean warm season perennials like bermudagrass or One can see the Lord’s handiwork everywhere. FDWKHGUDOVRIWKHSRSXODWLRQLGHQWLÀHV Milton Bradley, Sheldon Henderson, Tom Star- St. Augustine grass. Let’s talk about seeding tall A beautiful sunrise will greet you as the sun as Catholic, and the rett and Patrick Fix. fescue for a lawn comes up over the mountains. Lots of mornings country has been doc- Respect Most of the time we Around because we are apone can see deer and turkeys out and about. The umented as Christian Life spend together is ac- The Farm proaching the time turkeys I’m talking about have feathers. Just since the 2nd century. Ministry tually in the moun- of year when it’s Watching thought I’d make that clear. The president is sup- tains and woods of right to seed it. and Working The squirrels like to challenge the early posedly a regularly Angela Northeast Georgia. Mickey Tall fescue is Jacob morning drivers. They seem to wait on the edge practicing Catholic Ridley Many of our Cummings a perennial grass, Williams of the road and start across just as you get close who attends Mass of- trips are in the area meaning that you to them. A friend suggested that it is a game for ten. But he championed this bill in the French of Brasstown Bald, hereafter referred to as the don’t need to reseed your lawn with it every the squirrels. Other squirrels are up in the trees press and is set to sign it into law. Reckon where Bald. Someone in our group has a map of all year. However, if you seeded tall fescue in the and love to watch us as we slam on brakes to his faith went? Ah, well, Vive la France! (They the rock houses on the Bald. These were drawn spring, you will most likely need to reseed it. miss their daredevil friend and throw all of our might have to come up with another patriotic ex- onto the map by Eric England, and we have spent Because tall fescue is a cool season grass, it EHORQJLQJVLQWRWKHÁRRURIRXUYHKLFOH pression now.) PDQGDVWULQJWRÀQGHDFKRQH7KHUHDUHVRPH doesn’t like the heat. If it’s not well established, Lake Chatuge is something to see as well What does this bill entail? According to intriguing names on the map, like the “American the summer heat will kill it. That’s why I recon an early morning drive. Beavers have built a the BBC, it legalizes both euthanasia adminis- Platform, the Horse’s Face, and Cross Mountain ommend planting it in mid-September. Planting See Vickers, page 7A tered by a doctor or nurse and assisted suicide Branch.” One thing I have found is that Milton in mid-September will give it time to establish • in which the patient self-administers a lethal sets the pace. I will soon be 68, and he is a little throughout the fall and spring before going substance. Access is restricted to adults, 18 and ROGHUHWLWLVGLIÀFXOWWRNHHSXSZLWKKLP+H through the heat of July and August. SPLOST up, who are residents of France, suffer from a loves a good waterfall just as much as I do, and There are a number of varieties of tall Dear Editor, serious and incurable condition in an advanced when we come across one in the woods, he will fescue available. Usually when you buy a bag The SPLOST that Union County wants us or terminal phase, who experience suffering that look at me and grin. I know what he is thinking, of tall fescue seed it will have several differ- WR YRWH RQ LQ 1RYHPEHU KDV 12 VSHFLÀF SURM- cannot be relieved by treatment and who remain and I nod yes in agreement and away we go no ent varieties in that bag. This is a good thing ects lined up for us to vote on. This is Resolution able to express their will freely and with full un- matter the steepness of the terrain. because the different strengths and weaknesses R-2026-35. Look it up and read it! $43,000,000.00 derstanding throughout the process. This past spring, Sheldon told us of a mine of each variety are able to cover for each other. and then another $10,000,000.00 on TOP of that. Now, you may be thinking, “Who cares in the Gumlog area of which a friend told him. Kentucky 31 variety is the old standard for tall $53,000,000.00 not $43,000,000.00. about France? Can’t the French be French?” Cer- We walked a half mile to the entrance and pre- fescue. However, there are many new hybrids, I suggest that you read the WHOLE Res- tainly, however, Christians everywhere should SDUHG WR HQWHU LW 0LOWRQ ZHQW ÀUVW DQG ZDONHG which are much better for lawns. olution and then vote NO in November. The realize that this is coming to your hometown 20 yards inside the mine, and I was just entering One of the reasons that I like tall fescue County can resubmit the Resolution in 6 months with great rapidity. You may be thinking, “Well, when his light suddenly appeared in my face. I for our area is that it has more shade tolerance. RUDHDULQD6SHFLDO(OHFWLRQZLWKVSHFLÀFSURM- WKHGHÀQHGLWVRWKDWLVWKHZDLWZLOOEHHQ- slowly backed out, puzzled by how quickly he With the number of trees that we have, shade is ects listed instead of a WISH LIST that doesn’t forced.” Are you certain? Who respects arbitrary was moving, and he looked me in the eye and often a limiting factor to plant growth. Creeping WHOO XV VSHFLÀFDOO ZKDW WKDW SHQQ WD[ ZLOO EH statements? Arbitrary is exactly what legal aid in said, “bear.” That was enough for a consensus red fescue is actually a different species from used for, or its substitute project. Right now, it dying is. Something based on individual choice to develop among us to forgo seeing this mine. tall fescue but it has even better shade tolerance is for any and all things that the County MIGHT or what is good for me, the law notwithstanding. Sheldon Henderson and Milton are not than tall fescue. These grasses will still struggle WANT! Do we have any examples of arbitrary only good friends, but cousins as well. They both in deep shade. What they have is a tolerance of Marsha Lodes statements in U.S. law? Well, how about the re- grew up around Gumlog and both spent their ca- shade, meaning they still prefer full sun, but can • cent one that says states, rather than the Feds, reers working with the U.S. Forest Service. So, take some shade. Pat Colwell Road get to set their own laws regarding abortion? they know these mountains better than anyone When planting tall fescue, it is important And then every woman who wants to kill the else I know. But Sheldon has always had a keen WR SUHSDUH WKH VRLO ÀUVW7DNLQJ D VRLO WHVW DQG Dear Editor, unborn child in her womb simply drives across interest in history and knows much about the EULQJLQJLWWRRXU&RXQW([WHQVLRQ2IÀFHZLOO Pat Colwell Road is freshly paved and the state lines to an abortion clinic that is legal in families that called these mountains home. One give you a lot of information about your soil. process has been ongoing for several months. that state? (Think North Carolina where all the RIWKHWKLQJVZHOLNHWRGRLVÀQGROGKRPHSODF- You’ll get fertilizer recommendations and lime The road is heavily traveled and an important Georgians go.) Or my favorite. She just orders es, especially those that have intact or remnants UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV VSHFLÀF WR RXU VRLO IURP D DUWHU IRU %ODLUVYLOOH WUDIÀF 7KDQNV IURP WKH the abortion pill duo and it is mailed across every of chimneys. Once, while we were in the woods soil test. neighbors and those who attend the churches state line in the U.S. to her front door where she on the north side of the FS 100 road, Sheldon Before planting till and incorporate all the along the route. WKHQVZDOORZVWKHPGRZQDQGÁXVKHVWKHXQERUQ asked if we wanted to see an old chimney. We cut lime and fertilizer that is recommended on your Perhaps soon emphasis can be put on baby down the toilet, without any medical care at across the slope of a mountain and walked down soil test. Incorporate the lime and fertilizer into clearing the shoulders of Pat Colwell and cutting all. Arbitrary. to a spring where an old chimney stood. Sheldon the top 3 to 4 inches, or deeper, if possible, of the grass and cleaning up a bit more often. The So, why would anyone actually believe told us all about the family that called this place the soil. Ideally, you want to seed 5-6 pounds of URDG LV ÀOOHG ZLWK GHHU JUD]LQJ WKH URDGVLGH ,W that only French residents will be participating home more than 40 years before he was born. seed per 1000 ft2. After seeding rake, the seed LVGLIÀFXOWWRVHHWKHPHVSHFLDOODWQLJKW'HHU in this new legal right to die? Oh, wait. There’s Last winter he led us on an excursion to into the top quarter inch of the soil with a hard roaming the shoulders has been the cause of that stipulation about being at least 18. That’ll the south side of Wolf Laurel Top where a plane rake. If the seed goes too deep, it will struggle many deer being killed and contributing to auto stick! Until you consider the Netherlands, which crashed in the 1970’s. During the COVID Pan- to germinate. Apply straw mulch on top of the accidents. This is county wide. stated in their law entitled “Termination of Life GHPLFZHKLWXSRQWKHLGHDRIWUDYHOLQJWRÀQG soil. This will help to conserve moisture in the See Hyer, page 7A See Ridley, page 7A See Cummings, page 7A See Williams, page 7A North Georgia News Publication No: 001505 Advertising, News deadlines Friday at 4 p.m. • Mail Service for all subscriptions except 30512, 30514 & 30572 (Union Published since 1909 • Legal Organ of Union County County) - One Year $45 INCLUDING UNION COUNTY CUSTOMER REQUEST MAIL SERVICE. In county, Kenneth West Shawn Jarrard Sky Martinez Todd Forrest Lowell Nicholson carrier delivered subscription is $10. All subscriptions must be paid in advance. NORTH GEORGIA NEWS is published Publisher/Owner General Manager/Editor Advertising Sports Editor Photographer weekly by NGN/TCH, Inc., 266 Cleveland Street, Blairsville, Georgia, 30512. Entered as Second Class Matter as of Website: www.nganews.com • Email: northgeorgianews@hotmail.com • Mail: P.O. Box 2029, Blairsville, GA 30514 'HF DWWKH3RVW2IÀFHLQ%ODLUVYLOOHNORTH GEORGIA NEWS is not responsible for errors in advertising The North Georgia News is an independent and nonpartisan publication. As such, third-party views contained herein beyond the cost of the actual space involved. All advertisements are accepted subject to the Publisher’s approval of the are not necessarily the opinions or positions of this newspaper, e.g. advertising, press releases, editorial content, copy and to the space being available, and the Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. perspectives expressed in articles covering local events, etc. Phone: 706-745-6343 Fax: 706-745-1830 • P.O. Box 2029, Blairsville, Georgia 30514
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7A Cummings...continued from Page 6A Ridley... continued from Page 6A Fowler..continued from Page 6A Montgomery’s Corner and the point while walking down what on Request and Assisted Sui- Well, yes it can! There’s a form vine provides sustenance to the work are admirable traits. But 30-mile post. This is where was once an old road bed, I cide” in 2002, that the age limit the doc will give you at diagno- fruiting branch, He provides those plus luck are not what actwo survey teams were sup- was about 15-20 feet in front of was 12 and up, but three short sis. Sign here to approve the le- what you need to accomplish complishes God’s work in and posed to meet to establish the Tom, and yet not even his keen years later in 2005, they were thal dose administration. Vive His purposes in you. This is through you. Success and joy state line between North Caro- eyes could see me. That after- putting infants born with seri- la France! how “your toil is not in vain in come by making your home lina and Georgia. One of the noon the foliage was so thick ous illness and deformities to What happened to the the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58). (abide) in Christ and leaving teams was off by a substantial it took us four hours to walk 2 death, legally. Arbitrary. medical oath, “Do No Harm?” God made you to be pro- the results (fruit) to Him. Luck amount, with the result being a miles. Remember when Can- That oath that graduating doc- ductive. Discipline and hard has nothing to do with it. jag in Georgia’s northern state My friend Patrick Fix ada legalized MAID in 2016 tors from accredited med line. This area can be found in is perhaps the best hunter of with the stipulation that those schools all over the U.S. used Towns County, and our group deer and turkeys I know. Year with mental illness and depres- to recite aloud together at their wanted to see it. The problem in and year out he never fails sion would not be approved grad ceremony? I’ve actually was that Sheldon had found it to harvest the biggest bucks for MAID? But then reports heard it recited when I attended in years prior, but on this day and wiliest turkeys in these were published that said many a med school graduation in the he was sick. He told us where mountains. Years ago, we were patients who were legally as- 1990s. You know, that oath that ZH FRXOG ÀQG LW DQG RII ZH hunting together and he placed says their goal as new doc- Authorized Dealer sisted right unto death had been went. The northern slope of PH RQ D OLWWOH ÁDWWRSSHG DUHD diagnosed with serious mental tors is to help and do no harm High Tower Bald was climbed where numerous deer trails illness and/or depression? So, to the sick. I guess they need and we found ourselves in a came together. He said it was they wrote it into MAID and to change their oath, if they ERXOGHU ÀHOG ZLWKRXW ÀQGLQJ a great place and for me to be that will now be all nicely tied haven’t done so already. our survey markers. In a last- ready. I sat there all morning Who can hear the devil GLWFK HIIRUW WR ÀQG RXU REMHF- waiting on a big buck to come with a bow as of March 2027. laughing? He permeates entive, Sheldon was called. We my way. But around 11:45 I felt Arbitrary. All these statements tire societies and turns rational were told that we were close, the call of nature, so I stood and can be interpreted and expand- Christian minds into a toxic and he gave us some hints to walked about 20 yards away. ed in various ways depending cauldron of thought that says, on who is in charge. guide us. Tom remembered As I was doing my business, Who is paying for “killing myself is real free- Serving the Area Since 1983 his directions and spotted the a nice 6-pointer walked up on dom.” Which is one of his most marker stone. me. My gun was out of reach, France’s new Right to Aid in brilliant lies, because killing Tom has a keen eye, and all I could do was watch. Dying procedures? The French yourself or someone weaker which has been useful on more Later, Patrick came back and National Health Service. That’s than you is nothing but a fail- Hours: 9-5 Closed Wed. & Sun. than one trip. Once this past asked if I’d had any luck. I re- the government’s state run in- ure of the basic concept of freewinter we decided to walk off the Bald to a ridge that would sponded by saying, “You can try to help some people. But surance system paid for by French citizens, aka Obam- dom which, if we can recall, designates freedom as the right 2711 Blairsville Hwy., Murphy NC. 28906 lead us off toward Hog Creek. some people can’t be helped.” acare. They are quoted in the to… life. :HFDPHLQWRDJDSÀOOHGZLWK giant White Oak trees, and I On one trip I noticed Patrick always likes to sit next French press as saying, “mil- lions will be saved by allow- I think the Church would say, “May God have Mercy.” 828.837.8611 thought this was one of the to Milton when we eat lunch. ing cancer patients to choose a I can understand that statemost beautiful places I had I was curious and asked why painless death over expensive ment. But, I have a thought to ever been. There were eight he always sat next to him. You cancer treatments and surger- go along with that. It’s from to 10 of the huge trees that should know Milton’s day pack ies.” Consider. Can a cancer- 1 Samuel 24, when David is must have been 300 years old. has been known to weigh 15 ous lump in a woman’s breast speaking to Saul after he had We sat down to eat lunch, and pounds on some of our excur- qualify her for assisted death? the opportunity to kill Saul Tom scraped back the leaves to sions. He carries home canned in that cave for his evil ac- PDNHDFRPIRUWDEOHVHDWÀQGing a small, clear arrowhead. tomato juice, soup beans, canned trout, bear meat and Chamber... tions against both David and the Lord God, but chose not Later that day we walked off apple butter on these trips. So, continued from Page 6A to do so. It reads, “May the this lead to Hog Creek, where Patrick answered my question LORD judge between you and ZH KRSHG WR ÀQG D KXJH URFN by stating the obvious, “Well, hosting our next Business After me.” When men wrong us, the of which I had been told. All Milton usually carries enough Hours, and registration is now LORD will right us. Even if we we found was Mountain Lau- food to supply a meal at deco- open for Sporting Clays, just to have to wait until the last day. rel and rhododendron. At one ration day.” name a few. Evil proceeds from evil. And Sporting Clays registra- God repays it. Every time. WLRQ LV VXUH WR ÀOO XS TXLFNO Williams... continued from Page 6A so be sure to register now! And if you’re not a shooter, Collins... soil and keep your seed from chance to compete with weeds. you can still support this great being washed away. Ideally, We live in what is called continued from Page 6A event and a veteran’s cause by you want to keep the top 2 the transition zone on turf- becoming a sponsor. There’s $25 per hour ($175 for entire inches of soil moist but not grass maps. That means you always something happening day), and the smaller confer- ZHWIRUWKHÀUVWZHHNV$IWHU can plant warm season or cool in our community, so be sure ence room requires a $10 dethat just water once a week if season grasses, but neither to check the Chamber calendar posit and it costs $10 per hour there is no rainfall. are perfectly suited for our and stay connected. to rent. Start out cutting tall fes- climate. Tall fescue tends to As we continue planning cue at 2 inches as the grass ma- do the best. If you have ques- Contact Rachel at the Chamber for more informa- for the future, we remain comtures you can raise the height to tions about a tall fescue lawn, mitted to maintaining this valu- 2.5 to 3 inches. In areas of shade, contact your County Extension tion about upcoming events able community resource so it it’s better to let the grass grow 2IÀFH RU HPDLO PH DW -DFRE and sponsorship opportunities. can serve generations to come. a little taller to give it a better Williams@uga.edu. Help us make Life Better in The Pat Haralson Memorial Civ- Blairsville! ic Center stands as a tribute to a man who believed in public ser- Hyer...continued from Page 6A Vickers... vice and as a living reminder that when a community comes to- The Georgia Department place to live, let’s keep our continued from Page 6A gether, great things happen. That of Natural Resources should roads safe, clean, and attrac- is a legacy worth preserving. be encouraged to control the tive. I’ll bet I hear even better beaver dam on a small tributary population of deer in Union ideas from local folks. that feeds the lake. Considering County. They are a hazard to safe driving throughout the Richard E Hyer the size of the lake didn’t dis- courage the beavers. I won’t Your Patriot county. We are overwhelmed with herds of deer. Hopefully Dyer... say where it’s at because I’m sure they didn’t get a permit Reflection our Sole Commissioner can and I would hate to see the address this serious threat to continued from Page 6A powers that be tear it down. As life and limb of local residents. communications with greater beautiful as our area is, it pales Maybe a well supervised open range. This improves the safety in comparison to what has been hunt could thin the population. and job capabilities of the public prepared for those who put Surely many county residents safety personnel who serve our their faith in Jesus. It won’t just are ready to assist. If not, trap community. This is another great be an early morning drive, it’ll the deer and transport them example of how SPLOST fund- be forever and ever. far, far away. Russia, China?? ing has improved public safety. Gene Vickers Leave just a few of those that Union County Fire Decan’t reproduce. partment ~Our Family Protect- Blairsville is a great ing Your Family~ Ashurst... continued from Page 6A All Men The Ability Connection: person to feel for you no matter are Created Equal what your adversity is. You are The Founders wrote in Get Ready for a Memorable Event not a real concern to the toxic the Declaration of Indepen- know they have people cheer- person. dence that some truths are ing them on. And what better 6. Self-centered—In the self-evident, and one of these toxic environment, everything is the fact that all men are cre- way to bring a community to- is centered around their needs ated equal. gether than music! and wants. They do not care Yet everyone knows The Battle of the Bands about what’s happening in the that no two human beings are will feature talented musicians victim’s life. exactly alike in any respect. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY competing for some excit- They are different when they 7. Needy—A toxic indi- LQJ SUL]HV DORQJ ZLWK UDIÁHV vidual always needs some end- are born. They plainly ex- EMPLOYMENT AND Plans are underway for signed memorabilia and plen- less favors. It never stops. If the hibit different natural skills. They acquire different tastes. EDUCATIONAL SERVICES the 2026 Battle of the Bands, ty of surprises throughout the victim is empathic, the needy They develop along differ- Union County School System does not discriminate on the basis WKHÀUVWHYHQWRILWVNLQGWREH day. We are excited to have toxic person will search for that held in Blairsville, and I am so Braden Rumfelt and Tommy individual because toxic people ent lines. They vary in physi- of race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, or excited to be a part of it. On Townsend judging the event. will take from the victim all cal strength, mental capacity, age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to emotional stability, inherited Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. This notice ex- Saturday, Sept. 19, the doors Band registration is $25, and they can. social status, in their opporof Luke’s Place will open at general admission is just $5. tends to employment decisions or educational programs and ac- Stay away from negative WXQLWLHV IRU VHOIIXOÀOOPHQW QRRQ ZLWK WKH ÀUVW EDQG Flyers with additional in- people. They have a problem tivities, including its athletic programs. Any student, employee, and in scores of other ways. taking the stage at 1 p.m. Get formation can also be found for every solution. (Albert Ein- We think you get the picture. applicant for employment, parent or other individual who beready for a lively afternoon throughout town. stein) Then how can they be equal? lieves he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimina- ÀOOHGZLWKOLYHPXVLFWDOHQWHG There is much more to Here is what the Found- tion by other students or employees of the school system based EDQGV H[FLWLQJ SUL]HV UDIÁHV come as Sept. 19 approaches, ers believed: They were only upon any of the factors listed above should promptly report the featuring some incredible so keep reading each week Accomplish your equal in three ways. They can same to the school principal of the school, or the appropriate signed music memorabilia, as we introduce some of the goals! Free GED only be treated as equals in the sight of God, in the sight coordinator as listed below. Students may also report harass- ment or discrimination to any staff member or school volunteer. and so much more, all ben- talented musicians taking the HÀWWLQJ /XNH·V 3ODFH DQG LWV stage, reveal more amazing Classes Available of the law, and in the protec- tion of their rights. Students and employees shall not be subjected to retaliation for mission to prevent substance SUL]HV DQG UDIÁH LWHPV DQG If you never graduated reporting such harassment or discrimination. It is the task of society, abuse by providing teens with share everything planned for from high school, now is your as it is with God, to accept The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries a safe place to hang out with this memorable event. chance to accomplish your people in all their vast array regarding the nondiscrimination policies. friends. For more information goal. Come see us at the North of individual differences, but While The Ability Con- about The Ability Connection, Georgia Technical College treat them as equals when it Christal Chastain – Title II of Americans with Disabilities Act nection and Luke’s Place each visit our Facebook Group, Adult Education Center and comes to their role as human 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2322 have their own missions, there Special Needs Families in ÀQDOO JHW LW GRQH :H RIIHU beings. As members of soci- Leigh Wood – Title VI of the Civil Rights Act is something very special that Union County. For more infor- FREE in-person classes at 38 ety all persons should have 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2322 connects the work being done mation about Luke’s Place, its Blalock Street in Blairsville to their equality guaranteed in Jason Shadden – Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act ² D GHVLUH WR EULQJ SHRSOH WR- mission, and the Battle of the prepare you for the GED test two areas: Equality before the law, and equality of rights. gether, create opportunities, Bands, visit lukesplaceblairs- and beyond. 124 Hughes Street • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2322 Call us at 706-439-6342 $ 3DWULRW 5HÁHFWLRQ LV and make sure children, teens ville.org. Mandy Hunter – Sports Equity Coordinator to register and get your real presented weekly by www. and families in our community Submitted by Lisa Kramer joshuaswarriors.org. 153 Panther Circle • Blairsville, GA 30512 • 706-745-2216 N(Aug19,Z13)CA life started! NT(Aug19,Z2)CA
Sports Page 8A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 See the Sports Section at nganews.com Volleyball: Panthers off to best start in program history Kamryn Brown passes 1,000 career assists in her 54th match By Todd Forrest ty fended off the Eagles in a Sports Editor competitive opening set before sports@nganews.com pulling away in the second to close out another straight-set Union County volleyball victory. continued its impressive start Brown guided the ofto the 2026 season last week, fense with 19 assists and surwinning all six matches on the passed 1,000 career assists road without dropping a set in the process. She also gave to extend its winning streak the Panthers a boost from the to eight and improve to 11-2 service line with a match-high overall. six aces. The Panthers opened the Sauers paced the Union week Monday in Jasper, sweep- attack with six kills and added ing Pickens and Adairsville be- two aces, while Sosensky refore traveling to Tiger the fol- corded five kills and served lowing day and doing the same one ace. Foster and Ekeberg to Rabun County. The win over chipped in three kills apiece, the Wildcats pushed Union’s with Price and Beal adding two record to 8-2, marking the each and Brown one. best 10-match start in program Beal controlled the net history. Later that evening, the with a match-high three blocks. Panthers capped the tri-match Brown, Ekeberg and Foster with another straight-set vic- each added two blocks, while tory over Stephens County. Combs led the Panthers defen- Union County capped sively with four digs. Hedden the perfect week Thursday in contributed three digs and an Blue Ridge, where it swept ace. both Class AA No. 9 Fannin Panthers 2, No. 9 Fan- County and Coosa. The night nin County 0 (25-17, 25-10) DOVRSURGXFHGDVLJQLÀFDQWLQ- Sophomore Kamryn Brown celebrates her 1,000th career assist with 6HQLRU%ODLUH+HGGHQKDGDVHDVRQEHVWÀYHDFHVLQWKHZLQRYHU)DQQLQ — Union County closed out its dividual milestone when soph- coaches Megan Brown (L) and Grace Nelson (R). County. Photo/Todd Forrest six-match week with a straightomore setter Kamryn Brown with 20 assists. Brown also Panthers 2, Adairs- Panthers with two aces, joined one each. set victory over Fannin County, recorded her 1,000th career served up the Panthers’ lone ville 0 (25-11, 25-8) — Union by Combs, Hedden, Sosensky Panthers 2, Stephens extending the Panthers’ winassist, reaching the mark in just ace and contributed two kills, County had little trouble with and sophomore Evyn Davis. County 0 (25-21, 21-15) — ning streak to eight matches — her 54th match. a block and six digs. another Class 4A opponent Hedden also paced Union de- Union County wrapped up two shy of the program record The Panthers will look Junior Samantha Combs Monday night in Jasper, cruis- fensively with seven digs and Tuesday’s trip to Tiger with a of 10 straight in 2020. to keep the momentum go- anchored the back row with ing past the Tigers in the second added a kill, while Sauers sup- closer-than-expected victory Sauers and Beal paced ing this week when they host 16 digs and added two assists. match of the day. SOLHG IRXU NLOOV DQG ÀYH GLJV over what Panthers head coach the attack with six kills apiece, Andrews, North Carolina, on 6HQLRUV6RÀD)RVWHUDQG$PLH Ekeberg turned in a ca- Combs chipped in six digs. Megan Brown called a much- ZKLOH6RVHQVNDGGHGÀYHDQG Tuesday before traveling to Sauers and sophomore Emile reer-high seven kills along with Panthers 2, Rabun improved Stephens County Foster three. Brown and Eke- Class 4A Dawson County for Ekeberg each supplied four a block, while Foster made her County 0 (25-10, 25-13) — squad. berg chipped in two kills each a challenging tri-match against kills, with Foster also lead- presence felt at the net with a Union County opened Tues- Foster led the Union as Union steadily pulled away the seventh-ranked Tigers and ing Union at the net with two VHDVRQEHVWÀYHEORFNVDQGWZR day’s trip to Tiger with an- County attack with six kills and from the Rebels. Class 7A Forsyth Central. blocks. Senior Austin Beal and kills. Beal added six kills and other dominant performance, added a block, while Sosensky Brown also directed the Panthers 2, Pickens 0 Ekeberg chipped in a block three blocks. cruising past the Wildcats in SXW GRZQ ÀYH NLOOV DQG FDPH offense with 19 assists and (25-23, 25-21) — Junior Emry apiece. Brown orchestrated the straight sets. up with three digs. Davis pro- added two blocks. Hedden pro- Sosensky paced Union County Beal added three kills, offense with 15 assists and also Sosensky led the Pan- vided a spark from the service vided a spark from the service with eight kills and nine digs, while senior Blaire Hedden contributed four digs, two kills, thers with a match-high eight line, recording a career-high line with a season-high five while sophomore setter Kam- recorded seven digs and Sau- two aces and a block. NLOOVZKLOH%HDODGGHGÀYHDQG four aces. aces, while Davis matched her ryn Brown directed the offense ers four. %URZQ ZDV RQH RI ÀYH Sauers four. Brown supplied Brown kept the Panthers’ career best with four. Brown three kills, Ekeberg had two offense moving with 16 assists added two aces of her own. and Foster chipped in one. and added three aces and two Foster and Ekeberg each Sauers also served up a kills. Sauers contributed two contributed a block, while Hed- team-best four aces and con- kills, three aces and three digs, den anchored the back row with tributed six digs. Brown added while Beal added two kills and DWHDPKLJKÀYHGLJV%URZQ two aces and 14 assists, with a block. Combs, Sauers and Sosensky Davis supplying another ace. Ekeberg and sophomore added two digs apiece. Beal led Union at the Lyla Price each supplied a kill, Up next: Union County net with two blocks, while while Hedden served two aces hosts Andrews, North Carolina, Foster and Ekeberg each add- and freshman Kinsley Kend- on Tuesday, with JV action ed one. Brown and Hedden rick added a block. Davis and beginning at 5 p.m. and the shared team-high honors with Combs each chipped in a pair varsity match scheduled for 6 four digs apiece, followed by of digs. p.m. The Panthers then travel Combs with two and Beal, Panthers 2, Coosa 0 to Dawsonville on Thursday Ekeberg and Sosensky with (25-19, 25-10) — Union Coun- for a 5 p.m. tri-match. Union County volleyball is off to the program’s best start in its 10-year history, surpassing its hot starts in 2021 and 2024. Photo/Todd Forrest Old Union Women’s Golf Association: Sadie Hawkins Day Tournament Monday, August 10th day. Carol Conser and Johnny tion brought in an incredible Smith won the longest putt, assortment of side dishes and receiving $20 each. Cid Smith plenty of delicious homemade of Old Toccoa Farm claimed desserts. It was the perfect way the longest drive on hole #4 to relax, visit and celebrate an- and was awarded $20. Martin other wonderful day together East, for the gentlemen, took on and off the course. home the honors, and he also Sadie Hawkins Day has Another beautiful day on won $20. For the closest to the become a memorable tradition Monday, August 10, brought hole on #2, Rachelle Cronje for the Old Union Women’s the ladies together for one of and Alan Adamski each won Association. And just like the their most anticipated events $20. On hole #16, Betsy Hyde league itself, the tournament of the year: The annual Sadie and Bo Haynes captured clos- seems to get bigger and bet- Hawkins Day Tournament. est to the pin, also receiving ter each year. If you love good This year’s event was $20 each. The female who won fellowship and being part of a bigger and better than ever the most money for the day wonderful group of women, with 80 in attendance. The la- was Jacque Trail with a total of the Old Union Women’s Asdies invited their partners to $147. Among the men, Chuck sociation would love to have join them, and the response Burleson took home the largest you join them. The ladies repwas tremendous. Each hole winnings totaling $79. resent all levels of talent, and, had both a female and male But, as always, Sadie most importantly, share a love winner making the day excit- Hawkins Day was about much of the game and of friendship. ing and fun for everyone. more than golf. After the round, For information about The total tournament everyone gathered on the deck joining this wonderful group, payout was an impressive where hot dogs and hamburg- please contact Karen Musso- $2,330. There were plenty of ers were served from off the line at 352-638-3649 or Cynspecial prizes throughout the grill. The ladies of the associa- thia Panter at 706-633-7587. 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August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9A Panthers, Rebels set for 35th rivalry showdown Friday night UCHS hosts annual Meet the Panthers event on Thursday By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com Bragging rights are always at stake during a rivalry game, but after Mike Colwell Memorial Stadium hosts the 35th meeting between Union County and Fannin County on Friday night, the winner will have one extra reason to puff its chest for the next year. The two teams enter Friday’s showdown with the alltime series deadlocked at 17-17 after Fannin County won the previous two meetings to even the rivalry. For the Panthers, Friday also presents a chance WRDYRLGWKHLUÀUVWWKUHHJDPH losing streak to the Rebels in 18 years. For Union County head coach Rob Stowe, Friday marks Senior left tackle Logan Clasen (58), the lone returning starter on a young O-line, will be tested in Friday’s &RDFK6WRZHLVFRQÀGHQWWKDWMXQLRU4%.DPGHQ.HQGULFNKDVDOOWKH his second crack at the rivalry opener. According to Coach Stowe, the trenches will be the key matchup for both sides. Photo/Todd Forrest tools to lead Union to a win on Friday. Photo/Todd Forrest after his injury-riddled squad’s past Friday against Andrews. to the ball. Their back seven is comeback fell short, 28-22, in They played hard and were very good.” Blue Ridge last season. And sharp on both sides of the ball.” On the injury front, the his team is well aware of what Offensively, Fannin Panthers are beginning to get is at stake in the 2026 edition. County can beat opponents healthy but are still without “We are excited for Fri- in multiple ways, but Stowe running back Bentley Rich and day,” he said. “Our kids are hopes Union can win the battle wide receiver/defensive back looking forward to playing a in the trenches, where both Hudson Collins. Fortunately, really good team in Fannin. teams have some inexperience. Stowe expects senior Chetley Obviously, you can also add “They have two quarter- Cox and junior Mikey Davis to in that it’s a huge rival that backs that are really good and be ready to go on Friday. has gotten the better of us the they can win with either one,” “We are more healthy last two years, so that adds a he said. “The running back is right now than we’ve been in heightened sense of urgency very good and hard to tackle. a month,” Stowe said. “It will to get prepared.” Their wide receivers are good be good to get some guys back $FURVVWKHÀHOG)DQQLQ too. They have some quickness out who have had little to no &RXQWZLOOEHOHGEÀUVWHDU and catch the ball. Their line contact.” coach David Nichols, who pre- has some new guys but are well Kickoff is set for 7:30 viously served as defensive co- coached.” p.m. Friday at Mike Colwell ordinator at Lumpkin County Stowe also expects Fan- Memorial Stadium. during its recent run of success. nin County’s defense to test The Panthers will also His Rebels made an impressive Union’s young offensive line. host their annual Meet the first impression under their “The key is our offensive Panthers event Thursday, Aug. new coach last Friday, rolling line vs. their defensive front,” 20, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The to a 47-0 scrimmage victory at he said. “We have to give Kam- event will feature a wing- Andrews, North Carolina. den (Kendrick) time and open eating contest, free hot dogs “Coach Nichols does some holes for the run game. and performances by the band a fabulous job,” Stowe said. Defensively, their scheme will and cheer team, along with “I’ve known him for several be a little different than in the food vendors and a Panther The offense is going to need a big night from senior Brandon Lynch, who headlines a stable of running backs years. They looked good this past. They play hard and run merchandise tent. that Union County will lean on until senior Bentley Rich returns later in the fall. Photo/Todd Forrest Lady Panthers enter Tuesday’s UCMS Panthers roll past Lumpkin, region opener after tough week open title defense with 27-0 shutout By Todd Forrest Sports Editor sports@nganews.com No. 8 Union County dropped two of three completed games last week, including mercy-rule losses to North Hall and Oconee County, but the Lady Panthers did pick up a 6-1 road victory at Gilmer before Saturday’s game at North Forsyth was rained out with Union trailing 8-3. The Lady Panthers turn their attention to Region 7-AAA this week, traveling to Coahulla Creek on Tuesday before returning home Thursday to host North Murray. Lady Panthers 6, Gilmer 1 — Senior Izzy Anthros was strong in the circle Tuesday in Ellijay, striking out 12 while With the help of his offensive line, UCMS quarterback Colt Sandler (5) powers his way into the end zone for allowing just three hits in a WKHÀUVWRIKLVWZRUXVKLQJVFRUHVLQWKHYLFWRURYHU/XPSNLQ&RXQW3KRWR7RGG)RUUHVW complete-game effort as Union County took the 6-1 victory. Senior Ella Akins provided the offensive punch, going 2-for-3 with a double and three RBIs. Junior Lexi Davenport Senior Izzy Anthros struck out 12 in a three-hit victory at Gilmer last also collected two hits in four Tuesday. Photo/Todd Forrest at-bats and drove in a run. After three scoreless innings, the Lady Panthers broke through in the third. Akins opened the inning with a one-out single and eventually scored on Anthros’ two-out double to put Union ahead 1-0. The Lady Panthers added two more in the fourth when Davenport and sophomore Mya Jordan opened the frame with back-to-back singles before 7ULSS0DÀHOGUHWXUQV8QLRQ·V sophomore Marlee Cisneros Sawyer Fox slips a tackle on his way to the end zone. Photo/Todd Forrest ÀUVW,17RIWKHGD3KRWR7) drew a two-out walk to load By Todd Forrest with a drive that carried them session and appeared to return the bases. Akins followed with the length of the field, but it 90 yards for another score, a two-run double to extend the Sports Editor Ethan Liberatore ended the but the touchdown was wiped lead to 3-0. sports@nganews.com threat by intercepting a pass out by a block-in-the-back Three Gilmer errors Coming off a perfect in the end zone. The turnover penalty. helped Union add two more 2025 season, the Union County sparked an 80-yard Union The Panthers preserved runs in the sixth, with Akins Middle School Panthers picked drive that ended with Dillinger the shutout in the fourth quarter bringing home the second via up right where they left off last scoring on a 3-yard scamper. when Ty Webster recovered a a groundout. Anthros reached Wednesday night, blanking Sawyer Fox added the point- Lumpkin County fumble. on an error in the seventh, and Lumpkin County 27-0 in their after with less than a minute Union County returns Davenport followed with a base 2026 opener at Mike Colwell UHPDLQLQJ LQ WKH ÀUVW KDOI WR to action Wednesday, hosting hit to center to plate Union’s Memorial Stadium. make it 21-0. Pickens at 5:30 p.m. sixth run. Union’s defense set the Fox opened the third The Bobcats broke up the shutout with one out in the tone by forcing four turnovers, including three interceptions quarter with a 42-yard catch- Learn to and-run for another Union bottom of the seventh on a solo and a fumble, while quarter- touchdown, stretching the lead Play Pickleball home run. back Colt Sandler accounted to 27-0. Alex Gray intercepted The Blairsville Pickle- Anthros also contributed Junior catcher Lexi Davenport drove in a run and went 2-for-4 during for three touchdowns with two Lumpkin on the ensuing pos- ball Club, in conjunction with at the plate with a 1-for-4 per- Union County’s 6-1 victory at Gilmer. Photo/Todd Forrest rushing scores and a touch- the Union County Rec Deformance and an RBI, while junior Stella Collins doubled after three frames. Davenport recorded A Collins double ac- counted for the Lady Panthers’ down pass. Tripp Mayfield picked Mountain High partment, hold free beginning pickleball classes every Tuesand went 1-for-4. Jordan scored Union’s lone hit, while Jordan only hit of the day. Collins and off a pass on the Indians’ open- Hikers Schedule day evening at 6 PM, weather twice while going 1-for-3, and drew a walk in her only plate Davenport combined to pitch ing possession after pressure Mountain High Hikers permitting. The classes con- Cisneros drew a walk and stole appearance. Junior Addison WKHÀUVWLQQLQJZKLOH$QWKURV from the Panthers’ defensive offers three hikes in the local tinue through Oct. 27th. No a base. Senior Jules Dyer added Whitener started in the circle worked the final three and line, setting up a 2-yard touch- area each week: Tuesdays - a registration is required, and all a run. and worked one inning before limited Oconee County to two down run by Sandler. long hike from 8-14 miles and required equipment is provid- Lady Panthers 0, North giving way to Collins, who unearned runs while striking Sandler found the end a shorter hike of 5-8 miles. ed. Please wear sneakers, no Hall 15 (3 innings) — The SLWFKHGWKHÀQDOLQQLQJV out three. zone again after a Lumpkin Thursday we lead a leisure FURFVVOLGHVHWF&HUWLÀHGLQninth-ranked Trojans in Class Lady Panthers 0, Up next: Union County three-and-out, punching in a hike usually around 5 miles. structors will teach the classes, 4A erupted for 11 runs in the Oconee County 14 (4 in- visits Coahulla Creek for its 1-yard score on the opening We also maintain over 100 and all ages are welcome! first inning before limiting nings) — The Warriors jumped Region 7-AAA opener at 5:30 play of the second quarter. miles of trails in North Geor- The classes will take Union County to one hit in the on Union County for 12 runs p.m. Tuesday before hosting Sandler then connected with gia and Western NC area and place at the outdoor courts at mercy-rule-shortened contest. LQWKHÀUVWLQQLQJ7KXUVGDLQ North Murray at 5:30 p.m. Parker Dillinger on the 2-point run trail maintenance hikes the Union County Pickleball North Hall added two Blairsville, taking advantage of Thursday. The Lady Panthers conversion to give Union a on Thursdays each week. For Complex at 108 Chase Drive, runs in both the second and VL[ ZDONV ÀYH KLW EDWWHUV DQG also visit Lumpkin County on 14-0 advantage. more information visit http:// Blairsville (Next to the Rec third innings to end the game two errors in the 14-0 win. Monday, Aug. 24, at 6:30 p.m. The Indians responded www.mountainhighhikers.org. Center).
Page 10A THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 Fox 5 Meteorologist Forbes speaks at chamber luncheon “Blairsville is literally dead expected that flooding here of Blairsville could become middle of what was supposed to would have caused problems ÁRRGHGGXHWRLWVSUR[LPLWWR happen the day before and what like collapsed roads and Butternut Creek. Multiple areas ended up happening that night structural damage if not along Murphy Highway face and into the next morning.” landslides that blocked people similar threats. Gumlog Road As Forbes noted and from leaving their homes. may also deal with washouts, many will likely recall, Union Most of Helene’s deaths as well as Gainesville Highway. County did not fully avoid the RFFXUUHG LQ 1RUWK &DUROLQD Forbes reiterated that storm. Rather, Blairsville was within 100 miles of Blairsville. his goal was not to frighten spared the worst of the winds And most storm victims lost members of the audience but to and flooding. If Helene had their lives due to the kind of “make them think” and prepare followed the projected path, flooding Forbes described. them for emergency weather the hurricane’s local legacy Some, categorized as indirect situations like hurricanes and would have been considerably deaths, lost their lives in tropical storms. more dire. car accidents or medical Union County Fire “If you take anything emergencies, which Union Chief David Dyer took the away from today, it’s this – County could have also faced opportunity to ask folks to Union County Fire Chief Blairsville, and more broadly GXULQJDGLIÀFXOWFOHDQXS look into the new emergency David Dyer encouraged Fox 5 Meteorologist Alex Forbes headlined the chamber’s speaking, Union County, Using Google Maps, notification system, RAVE everyone in attendance for Power Lunch at the Community Center on Friday. dodged a huge bullet from the F o r b e s i d e n t i f i e d s o m e Alert. Residents can register the Aug. 14 Power Lunch Photo by Brittany Holbrooks storm,” Forbes said. “problem areas” to be aware with the new system at tinyurl. to sign up for RAVE Alert. By Brittany Holbrooks To s t a r t h i s s t o r m Blairsville is unique due of. US 76 running east out com/UnionRave. Photo by Brittany Holbrooks North Georgia News discussion, Forbes pulled up to its location and geography. Staff Writer Hurricane Helene’s trajectory. It sits in a “bowl,” surrounded Power Lunch by the Two years ago, Helene was on all sides by elevation. Rain Blairsville-Union County projected to make landfall as a drains from the mountains to Chamber of Commerce returned Category Four in Florida, and the lake via downhill streams on Friday, Aug. 14, welcoming Forbes can recall accounting like creeks, and Forbes shared special guest speaker Fox 5 for “the worst-case scenario” a drainage map of Union Meteorologist Alex Forbes, for Metro Atlanta. County’s water. who primarily talked about “An intensifying, major “If you get a lot of rain in what would have happened had hurricane making landfall on WKDWDUHDYHUIDVWWKDWÀOOVXS the brunt of Hurricane Helene’s the Gulf Coast with Metro the bowl which Blairsville sits wrath struck Blairsville. Atlanta on the right side of the in,” explained Forbes before A F o r s y t h C o u n t y storm – that is the ‘dirty side,’ posing the $64,000 question native, Forbes graduated from as people sometimes refer to of the presentation: “If the Mississippi State University it,” Forbes said, adding that impacts were the same as the in 2021 with a degree in while the goal is never to sow 1RUWK &DUROLQD PRXQWDLQV professional meteorology. He panic, Fox 5 reported the storm what would Blairsville look ZHQW RQ WR HDUQ KLV &HUWLÀHG with “a serious tone.” like?” Broadcast Meteorologist Despite that forecast, the The biggest issue in designation from the American hurricane followed a different 1RUWK&DUROLQDZDVQRWZLQG Meteorological Society in path as it made its way north. but flooding. Certain areas 2024, and this year, he became Helene instead took a slightly of the state saw 30 inches of a Southeast Emmy Award wider arc, and though the more rain in two and a half days. If, recipient. easterly movement looks small for example, Union County First, Forbes took the RQ RIÀFLDO PDSV WKH UHDFK RI had experienced 30 inches of audience on a virtual tour of the storm turned out vastly rain, that amount would look Fox 5, including the newsroom different than expected. different due to the elevation. and the weather station. Along “The difference is just On the mountainsides, physics with that, he offered some a decimal point of a degree, dictates it would drain down. brief background on the media but that has impacts of tens of In flatter areas, it would organization, including its thousands of miles, and that accumulate. DIÀOLDWHGVWDWLRQVDQGFRYHUDJH makes all the difference in Reviewing photos area. the world,” Forbes explained. IURP 1RUWK &DUROLQD )RUEHV U.S. Air Force Veteran and Wife seek community support in America’s Favorite Couple Competition Blairsville couple Nor- berto and Elizabeth Allen hope to advance in the com- petition and use the $20,000 prize to help family in Cuba facing severe hardship. U.S. Air Force veteran Norberto Allen and his wife, Elizabeth Allen, are asking for community support as they compete in the 2026 America’s Favorite Couple competition. Voting for America’s Favorite Couple competition closes Thursday, September 10, 2026. If they win the competi- tion’s $20,000 grand prize, the Allens hope to use the money to help relatives in Cuba who are living without electricity and facing severe food scar- city. “Every daily vote and every share gives us a better Norberto and Elizabeth Allen chance of making a mean- of the most difÀcult periods of portunities for meaningful ingful difference in the lives Elizabeth’s life. connection, growth and per- of our loved ones,” Elizabeth Norberto and Elizabeth sonal development, beginning said. “Above all, it reminds describe their relationship as with this worthy cause. them that we haven’t forgotten a story of faith, perseverance A m e r i c a ’s F a v o r i t e them.” and mutual support. Today, Couple offers the winning pair The couple met online that same bond is guiding them a $20,000 prize, a feature in while Elizabeth was caring into this new chapter as Nor- Variety and a triple date with for her mother during a battle berto enters retirement, with a celebrity couples. with cancer. What began as continued focus on supporting Supporters may cast one conversation and friendship their family and sharing their vote each day for Norberto and — A 55+ COMMUNITY — grew through laughter, prayer, journey together. Elizabeth at: https://americas encouragement and Norber- They believe this time favcouple.org/2026/norberto to’s steady support during one together will create new op- -amp-elizabeth HOMES, 2)),&,$/127,&( STARTING AT $315,000 ARE MOVING FAST. Please be advised that the regularly scheduled ACT NOW! meeting of the Union County Commission, originally scheduled for August 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Union County Courthouse, has been relocated and rescheduled. The meeting will be held on August 20, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at the Union County Sports Center, located at 519 Industrial Boulevard, Blairsville, Georgia. Individuals with disabilities who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions regarding the accessibility of the meeting, or the facilities are required to contact the County Clerk at 706-439-6000 promptly to allow the County to make reasonable accommodations for those persons. Celina: 706.745.5565 wesleymountainvillage.org LOCATED A MILE AND A HALF FROM THE SQUARE IN BLAIRSVILLE.
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Page 2B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 Towns County Firewise Citizens Coalition PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT From the Union County Sheriff’s Office The nationally ac- stop, no one would notice, and resentatives, all dedicated to claimed Towns County Fire- people would go back to busi- wild land-fire safety and pub- Frank We have recently got- ten questions about the Union der this guise, they would then solicit money from the family wise program started in 2008 ness-as-usual assuming that lic education. The citizens repduring an 800-acre fire on Ce- the wildfire was something resent various communities, Riley County Jail’s online inmate acting like this money would be roster whereby people could used to release their loved one dar Knob Mountain in Young that won’t happen in their businesses, and institutions in Executive login and see recent arrests. On from jail. We had several peo- Harris. When Billy Snipes community and they would the county. Supporting the co- Director December 24th, 2025, we inac- ple scammed out of thousands told a group in Colorado that only worry about a wildfire alition is an ex-officio group of RC&D tivated that website. of dollars because of this. our biggest fire was 800 acres when it happened. of professional fire people The reason for the inac- This is why we made the the comment was made that it These fire agency rep- providing technical expertise, tivation was to prevent further decision to take the website would be a camp fire out there, resentatives recognize that the resources and funds as needed. areas using the Fire Adapted scams to our citizens. Recently, down for now. We are explorbut to us it was a big deal that risk is very real and could hap- The Chestatee Chat- Communities, Ready Set Go, scammers had been logging into ing options to begin posting we want to try to prevent here pen anytime, so in 2013, they tahoochee RC&D (CCRCD) and Firewise learning net- that website and viewing those this information online, but we in the future. passed ownership of these was awarded several grants works to build the programs that had recently been arrested. will only do this if we can en- A one-acre fire can be programs to the newly formed to fund the activities and has in these at-risk areas. The pro- The scammer would then locate sure that our citizens will not be a major disaster if your house Towns County Firewise Citi- administrated the grants for grams have been spread across family members for the recently scammed from the utilization of is sitting in the middle of that zens Coalition that is made these programs. Most of these the south and it all started here incarcerated person. The scam- this information. acre! After that “camp” fire, up of the very people who are national grant funds originate in Towns County. mer would then contact the We will continue to post local, state, and federal agen- at risk and the programs are with the US Forest Service be- The Chief of the US family and act as if they were all recent arrests in the North cies began working with com- designed to protect. The co- cause the agency believes that Forest Service once visited law enforcement officers. Un- Georgia News each week. munity members to get them alition took ownership of the it is cheaper to prevent wild one of our Towns County involved at a grassroots level. They did this by telling the Firewise, Ready-Set-Go, and Fire Adapted Communities fires than to try to put them out and a forest where a fire didn’t community meetings because word had spread to Washing- Union County Jail people who live in the Wild programs and developed the happen looks a whole lot better ton about what we were doing Arrest/Booking Report land-Urban Interface (WUI) grassroots network and lead- than one where one did. When here in Towns County and he Shawn Dyer, Union County Sheriff the story about the risks of ership to keep the programs the surrounding communities asked me if we could spread wildfire in the neighborhoods alive well into the future. are safer from wildfire then the our Towns County programs where they live. The fire agen- The Fire Adapted Com- risk to the National forests is up the Appalachian Mountain 08/14/26 Stephen Todd Anderson, age 55, Blairsville, GA cy representatives (federal munities program is as one of greatly reduced saving the tax chain from Towns County into Failure to appear state, local & RC&D) who our members put it, “a way of payers the cost of fire suppres- Virginia. 08/14/26 Heather Leeann Coleman, age 37, Mineral Bluff, GA started Firewise, Ready-Set- life and an attitude” and is a sion and restoration. With this challenge, Manufacture, deliver, distribute, dispense, admini- Go & Fire Adapted Commu- never-ending process that will As control of Towns’ (and some Forest Service ster, sell, or possess with intent to distribute nities (FAC) in Towns County continue to grow and evolve as Firewise and FAC programs funds), CCRCD created the controlled substance, illegal possession of soon realized that they were long as people live in the WUI. passed to the coalition, the Appalachian RC&D FAC Co- controlled substance (2 counts), possession of drug the only ones pushing the is- The Towns County Fire- team took the lessons learned alition, which was a regional, related objects, prescription drugs must be in their sue and if they quit pushing, wise Coalition consists of six to start new Fire-Adapted 4 state, grass roots organiza- original container(s) the momentum would roll to a citizens and three agency rep- Communities in surrounding tion made up of 6 RC&Ds to 08/13/26 Madison Nicole Farmer, age 17, Murphy, NC lead the way with local agency Pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs Walk Today For Women Tomorrow event at Meeks Park personnel and citizens groups 08/13/26 Dalton Lee Farrell, age 22, Hiawassee, GA Serving 48 hours implementing the programs in their at-risk communities. 08/14/26 Javier Arteaga Hernandez, age 27, Blairsville, GA The 10-year run of our fund- Driving while license suspended/revoked, theft ing the Appalachian RC&D by shoplifting FAC Coalition planted seeds 08/14/26 Lloyd Anthony Queen, age 45, Young Harris, GA of wildfire risk reduction in Illegal possession of controlled substance these at-risk communities and 08/16/26 Austin John Richter, age 22, Blue Ridge, GA changed the way the citizens Serving time live with the risk of wildfire, 08/14/26 Trevor Phicko Ross, age 48, Mineral Bluff, GA and now they know how to Illegal possession of controlled substance, posses- better control the outcome of a sion of drug related objects, driving while license wildfire with the programs that suspended/revoked, speeding in excess of max- were passed on through the lo- imum limits (state speed and zone limits) cal groups. 08/11/26 Haley Noel Smith, age 38, Blairsville, GA The original Towns Criminal trespass County Firewise Coalition, 08/10/26 Natalie Elise Summerour, age 62, Dalton, GA now 13 years old, is very ac- Probation violation (felony) tive and meets every 3rd Tues- 08/14/26 Joel Cecil Totherow, age 40, Blue Ridge, GA day at Fire Station 6 at 1 PM Failure to appear, probation violation (misd) and is open to all interested 08/14/26 Dustin Dwayne Townson, age 33, Morganton, GA citizens. Union County now Serving time has a very active Firewise 08/16/26 Carlos Rene Velasquez, age 36, Lilurn, GA (L-R) back: Terri Hager, Deb Lowry, Kathleen Edwards, Pam Smith, Beverly Schwab, Holly McLaurен, Citizens Coalition that meets Possession of marijuana less than 1 oz., driving Libby Eberle, Sylvia Goodyear, Melissa Griggs, Kimberly Miller, Sharon Davis, Linda Ellison; front: at Fire Station 1 quarterly, and while license suspended/revoked, speeding in Diane Battle, Paula Schrader, and local chapter President, Kris Steck. Not pictured is Boo Elliott. both meetings are open to all excess of maximum limits (state speed and zone Thousands of women was held locally at Blairsville’s has helped more than 129,000 who are interested in learning limits) across the US and Canada, Meeks Park with 16 “sisters” women pursued educational how to live with the wildfire There are 65 inmates currently housed in the Union County Jail. members of an international and friends from the local PEO goals by providing approxi- risk here in the Mountains. organization known as PEO, chapter representing Fannin, mately $462 million in edu- A program such as these Blairsville Police Department Philanthropic Education Orga- Union, Towns, Rabun, and cational assistance. Founded must have a dedicated leader nization, participated in a walk White counties, Georgia, and in 1869 at Wesleyan College for the spark and be properly Arrests and Incident Report to raise scholarship funds on Clay County, NC. in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, the fueled by the citizens that it is Chief Michael “Bear” Baxter August 1. PEO is a non profit in- local chapter was chartered in designed to protect, and once Walk Today For Women ternational organization that Blairsville in 1999. NT(Aug12,A5)JT ignited, will spread on its own through the grassroots chan- 08/10/26 Courtesy escort nels. 08/11/26 Suspicious incident, assist other agency, courtesy Help the Coalitions fuel escort, 2 MVAs the fire, become a spark, and 08/12/26 Forgery-1st degree, courtesy escort, MVA get involved and become Fire- 08/13/26 2 courtesy escorts, bank alarm, assist other agency wise in your community!..... 08/14/26 Courtesy escort, MVA Your life may depend on it! 08/15/26 Theft by shoplifting, financial transaction card For more information fraud, courtesy escort on Firewise, Fire Adapted, or 08/16/26 Assist other agency, welfare check, alarm, courtesy Ready-Set-Go! Check www. escort info.ccrcd@gmail.com or 08/17/26 Disorderly conduct www.firewise.org. NT(Aug19,Z10)CA Union County Fire VETERANS Department Incidents CORNER Union County Fire Chief David Dyer Disabled American Veterans - DAV Chapter 11: 08/10/26 Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; 2 Med- Meetings are on the 2nd Mon- ical Calls-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Fire day of each month at 7 PM; 78 Alarm-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Medical Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, Call-Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog GA 30512. 08/11/26 Medical Call-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call- Navy Seabee Veterans Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell; Medical Call- Of America, Island X-3, GA: Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Medical Call-Station Meetings are on the 2nd Fri- 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Smoke Detector Install- day of each month at 2 PM; 78 Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Fire Alarm-Station Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, 13 & Station 7-Dooly GA 30512. 08/12/26 Powerline Down-Station 1 & Station 6-Pat Colwell Navy Seabee Veterans 08/13/26 Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 2-Jones Creek; Support Alliance: Meetings Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; are on the 2nd Friday of each Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; month at 1 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Fie Alarm-Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog; Medical Hwy., Blairsville, GA 30512. Call-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Controlled Marine Corps League, Burn-Station 1 & Station 10-Trackrock; Rescue- Detachment 783: Meetings Station 13 & Station 7-Dooly; Motor Vehicle are on the 3rd Saturday of Accident-Hwy 515 E/Backyard Lane each month at 10 AM; 78 Blue 08/14/26 Fire Alarm-Station 1-Blairsville; 2 Medical Calls- Ridge Hwy., Blairsville, GA Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Gas Leak-Station 30512. 5-Suches; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 9-Coosa; American Legion - Ira Smoke Detector Install-Station 1 & Station 2- Weaver Post: Meetings are on Jones Creek; Medical Call-Station 1-Blairsville the 3rd Tuesday of each month 08/15/26 Fire Alarm-Station 1-Blairsville; Motor Vehicle at 6 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Accident-Pleasant Hill Rd/Pea Ridge Rd; 2 Medical 99 Blairsville, GA 30512. $4 Calls-Station 1-Blairsville; Medical Call-Station 13 Vietnam Veterans Of & Station 4-Ivy Log; Medical Call-Station 13 & America, Chapter 1101: Station 7-Dooly; Medical Call-Station 13 & Station Meetings are on the 3rd Thurs- per ream of 500 sheets day Of each month at 1 PM; 8-Gumlog; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 10- Trackrock; Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 12- 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairs- $49 Choestoe 99 ville, GA 30512. Veterans Of Foreign Wars - Post 7394: Meetings 08/16/26 2 Medical Calls-Station 1 & Station 3-Owltown; Medical Call-Station 13 & Station 4-Ivy Log; Dumpster Fire-Station 13 & Station 8-Gumlog; are on the 4th Tuesday Of each Medical Call-Station 1 & Station 12-Choestoe month at 4 PM; 78 Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville GA 30512. Misty Mountain Quilters Guild features PTSD Support Group: Meets on the 1st and 3rd Sat- renowned Quilt Artist Timna Tarr urdays at 10 AM. N(Aug19,Z3)CA The Misty Mountain Quil- cated to educating, sharing, and ters Guild invites the public to its promoting the craft and traditions Honor Flight trips upcoming monthly meeting on of quilting. The guild offers a wide Tuesday, August 25. Everyone is range of opportunities for its mem- to Washington, welcome to attend and learn more bers and the community, including D.C. for Veterans about the vibrant world of quilting. The meeting will feature educational presentations, “Show and Tell” inspiration sessions, Sponsored (no cost to a special Zoom presentation by and significant charity outreach Veteran) Honor Flight trips celebrated Massachusetts-based through sewing comfort items for to Washington D.C. to see quilt artist Timna Tarr. Tarr will local shelters and hospitals. the memorials to the Wars in discuss “What ifs” and “Working The event will be held in which they served. Veterans in a Series,” sharing insights into the Fellowship Hall of First United do not have to have been de- her creative process and her unique Methodist Church, located at 938 ployed overseas ... just to have approach to art and collage quilt- GA-515, Blairsville, GA. Sign- served during the War period. ing. Attendees will also have the in begins at noon and the general World War II, Korea, and Viet- opportunity to view a showcase of meeting commences promptly at nam veterans are included. her stunning quilts. 12:30 p.m. For more informa- Spring and Fall flights. If in- The Misty Mountain Quil- tion about the guild or this event, terested, call Paul at 615-232- ters Guild, with nearly 150 mem- please visit www.mistymountain- 4445. Thank you! NT(Aug19,Z2,CA bers from Georgia, North Carolina, quiltguild.org or email mmqgin- Tennessee, and Florida, is dedi- fo@gmail.com.
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 3B Iota Iota attend Metro Atlanta Council Luncheon Ambyre and John Ponivas seeking community support as America’s Favorite Couple Dr. Ambyre Ponivas, a current Young Harris College professor, and John Ponivas, a supervisor at Oglethorpe pow- er, have made the quarterfinal cut for the America’s Favorite Couple contest. Highschool sweethearts, John and Ambyre have been married for 20 years, have a 3-year-old daughter, and continue to defy odds with their relationship. They have remained together through John’s 12-year tenure in the U.S. Navy submarine force, (L-R): Jeanee McJilton, Helen Teboe, Nancy Garrett, Shirley Mensching and Gwen Parker through Ambyre’s PhD pro- Two members of Iota outside of California to have Ridges in Young Harris. gram, and changing jobs and Iota attended the Metro At- set up a state BAND. This Nancy distributed the moving to a new state during lanta Council (MAC) for a has allowed networking with MAC bylaws & guidelines for the height of COVID. Founder’s Day Luncheon, chapters and councils beyond each chapter. The meeting was John and Ambyre like to which was held at Olive Gar- the Metro Atlanta and North closed at approximately 8 PM. say that John keeps the lights den in Roswell, GA. Georgia Area. Then Jeanee and Helen head- on while Ambyre teaches stu- The meeting was called The proposed budget ed back over the mountain to dents to have lightbulb moto order by President Nancy was handed out by Nancy and Blairsville. ments. Garrett at 7:02 PM. Nancy was discussed by the mem- If you would like to The America’s Favorite reported on emerging re- bers. The members also dis- learn more about Iota Iota, Couple contest has given John sources such as “Revive Beta cussed the up coming Christ- please contact our vice Presi- and Ambyre the ability to con- Sigma Phi” and Georgia State mas Luncheon, which will be dent Sally Shuck at rashuck@ BAND. We are the only state held on December 12th at The windstream.net. N(Aug19,Z9)CA nect with their wider social network to share their story, but also to help raise money for meaningful charities, in- Castoff Pet Rescue offering half-price cluding Los Angles Regional The Ponivas Family feline adoptions now thru September 30th Food Bank and Oceana, which helps support our oceans and use the money to go on a sec- ond honeymoon and support their journey, and help raise awareness for these charities, wildlife. their daughter’s college fund. you can check out their pro- This spring brought Castoff needs to make space The adoption event If they win the grand If you would like to file here: americasfavcouple. an exceptionally busy kitten in the shelter. From August 17 comes as Castoff Pet Rescue prize, John and Ambyre will support John and Ambyre on org/2026/the-ponivi NT(Aug19,Z16)CA season to Castoff Pet Rescue, through September 30, all cat celebrates its 20th anniversary. UC Lions $ CASH 4 $ with more than 70 kittens and kitten adoption fees will In the last 5 years, the 501(c) coming into the rescue in just be half price. Kittens can be (3) nonprofit has taken in and $ $ a matter of weeks. Many arrived needing adopted for $75 and adult cats for $50. cared for over 600 animals on solely community support, as Club $ COINS, $ $ $ time, care and veterinary attention before they could be ready There are plenty of cats to choose from! Black cats, the rescue does not recieve any public funding. Donations Meetings $$ SILVER $ $ for adoption. Over the past orange cats, tabbies, tuxedos, help provide vaccinations, VFW Karaoke The Union County Li- $ & COSTUME $ $ $ several months, Castoff staff, volunteers and fosters have white cats, bonded pairs, play- ful kittens, laid-back adults preventive care, medications, spay and neuter services, food Karaoke on Wednesdays ons Club meets the 4th Thurs- $ JEWELRY $ worked to get these kittens and cats with personalities of and other necessities. from 4 PM until 8 PM at the day of every month. $ Labosco’s at the $ Please reach out to Cha- $ Blairsville Picker’s Barn $ healthy, vaccinated, spayed or every kind are waiting to meet For 20 years, the com- VFW Post on Sunnyside Rd $ $ neutered and ready for the next their people. Whether you munity has helped Castoff in Hiawassee. Come join us sity Miller, Secretary, at 706- $ 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville $ chapter of their lives. have room for one or are con- give animals a second chance. for some fun! It is open to the 897-5467 for meeting place $ 706-745-0097 $ Now, they need homes, sidering bringing home a pair, This kitten season, they need public. and time. N(Aug19,Z1)CA CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! and so do the many adult cats this is a great time to find your that community again. already waiting at Castoff. new best friend while help- To view available ani- VFW Fish Fry With so many cats and ing Castoff make room for the mals, complete an adoption The VFW is pleased to kittens in care and more ani- next animal who needs a safe application or make a donamals continuing to need help, place to go. tion, visit castoffpetrescue.org. have you come and have Fish Fry with us at our brand new Post on Sunny Side for $12 or $15 all you can eat. The nights of the fish fry is still the second (2nd) and the forth (4th) fridays of each month and remember no Tax & no Tip. We hope to see you there. NT(Aug12,A1)JT Pets of the NOTICE Week TOWN HALL MEETINGS Union County Government will be hosting two Town Hall Meetings in the month of September related to SPLOST collections and spending. The dates and locations of the meetings are below and invite all citizens to attend. Meet Sylvester, this 4 month old kitten is fully vet- Tuesday, September 1, 2026 • 6:00pm ted and ready to start his life Suches Community Center with you! Fill out an application at 56 Firewater Lane, Suches, GA 30572 Meet Caboose, her name www.castoffpetrescue.org. comes with a special story— Meet Remington, this 3 Don’t forget to support she was the final rescue from a year old German Shepherd is CPR at our weekly Bingo on local colony! Now, 2-year-old Thursday, September 10, 2026 • 6:00pm looking for an active family to Wednesdays and shop at our alternately play and cuddle! Thrift Store! NT(Aug19,Z6)CA Caboose is a cozy thrift store Union County Fine Arts Center favorite who expects every shopper to stop for pets. Soft 926 Panther Overlook, Blairsville, GA 30512 ARFS: Give Your Pain Purpose as silk, calm, and completely If you have lost a dearly to ARFS, P.O. Box 972, Hia- unfazed by busy days, she’s loved pet and your heart is wassee, GA 30546 or on ARFS spayed, vaccinated, and litter grieving, why not “give your website (www.arfs-inc.org) by trained. pain purpose” by making a clicking the DONATE button. donation to Animal Rescue Please indicate that your dona- Financial Support (ARFS) in tion is a memorial and provide honor of your cherished fur the name of your pet. Memorifriend. als will be posted on ARFS’s ARFS will use your do- website, unless you request nation to provide medical care otherwise. ICL Fall Classes: September 14 through November 13, 2026 for an animal that is suffering Let’s not forget that and has an owner who cannot precious pet that gave you so Whether you're drawn to the arts, sciences, literature, or technology, you'll )nd an array of afford veterinary expenses. much joy. Let’s give your pain engaging options designed to spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning. Our instructors are Memorials can be made purpose! NT(Aug19,Z2)CA eager to share their knowledge and create an exciting classroom experience. As the summer term approaches, we encourage you to secure your spot in the courses that interest you most Whiskers Project and join our community of enthusiastic learners. Make the most of this opportunity to expand “Helping your horizons and connect with others who share your desire for continued learning. Community Cats” Tank is a fluffy 2-3 year Listed below are the fall courses offered, and more may be added. For detailed information about each class go to the ICL website (iclyhc.org) and select Courses. Online registration Every since 2003, help Spay or Neuter one cat in old gentleman overflowing has begun. If a class is marked closed and you are still interested in taking it, please select the Whiskers Project has been a the Community to help others with love. He’s the ultimate event and put your name on the wait list. You will be noti)ed if seats become available. dominate force in reducing the that cannot afford a donation, softie who rolls over for chin homeless outdoor cat popula- $50 or $100 per cat would be rubs, offers epic head-bonks, Cooking History tion through Trap, Neuter, Re- greatly appreciated. and melts right into your Making Bagels The Steinway Story turn. The phone calls for help If you want to help in hands. Fully vetted and litfrom Blairsville and Hiawassee other ways, cat food donations ter trained, Tank is total per- Art and Craft The Colonies to the Recent Past cat caretakers are daily. Our can be made through Chewy. fection. Thanks to an alumni sponsor, Tank’s adoption fee is Beginner Quilt Class The History of Rock ’n Roll funds are limited and we need com on our Wish List for financial help to get to the end Whiskers Project. Volunteers completely waived! Twisted Leather Whisk Genealogy of the cat list by year end. are needed for trapping, fos- Apply here: www.safepet- Our program has al- tering, fund raising and grant project.org/adoption-agreement Flying Finch Whisk Shaking Your Family Tree: Intro to Genealogy ready spayed and neutered writing. Please let your local or call 706-400-7076 ext. 2. Acrylic Painting In & Out Tech NT(Aug19,Z12)CA over a hundred cats this year. Commissioners know we need The program is not a Free pro- financial grants from their Photographing Fall Wildflowers & Landscapes Your iPad/iPhone: Stay Safe and Secure Bell Ringing Union gram and donations for our county budgets to help us so County Old Courthouse Security Your Mac: Privacy, Security, and Passwords services are smaller than the we can help you with spaying Vet cost. Our program is first and neutering. No more litters, Disaster Preparedness Outdoor come, first serve. There are no more homeless animals. Health Fall Birding many cats standing by waiting This will serve the public and to get sterilized. Your help is help the many homeless kitten Piloga Hiking and Touring in the Smokies needed now. Whiskers Project surrender rates to lessen the Cancer Prevention; a Holistic Approach Games is a private nonprofit organiza- intake at local shelters. Our tion, 501(c)3 and funding is Mission is to prevent the over- Preparing for the End of Life: Are You Ready? Beginning Mah-Jongg supported by the public. Your population of homeless kit- Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED Mah-Jongg Strategy tax deductible donation can tens. Follow us on Facebook, be made online, www.whis- our website whiskersproject. Culture and Religion Chess for Adults kersproject.org or by mailing org, email info@whiskersproa check payable to Whiskers ject.org and 1-888-872-9330. The Epic of Isaiah Introduction to Pickleball Project, PO Box 575, Blairs- Your kindness is greatly ap- Bell ringing information The Life & Thoughts of Martin Luther King, Jr. ville, GA 30514. If you can preciated. NT(Aug19,Z3)CA at 706-745-5493
Page 4B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 UC Sheriff’s Office welcomes four new deputies to ranks Great Cruise-In at the Blairsville Square and upcoming Copperhead Lodge Show August 22nd The Blairsville Cruisers had a wonderful turnout this past Saturday on the Square. We held a collection for David Wells Parrish and want to ex- tend our heartfelt thanks to ev- eryone who donated. Together, we raised $1,802.00 on-site, with additional funds gener- ously contributed directly to Mike Whitlow with Mickey Lince, Club VP the funeral home. Our com- (L-R): Sheriff Shawn Dyer, Deputy Logan Bryson, Deputy Lillian Leird, and Deputy David Harris munity truly came together to honor Mr. Parrish, a local vet- We would like to wel- tion Officers since July 2025. eran who proudly served two come the newest deputies to the Deputy Leird has worked as tours in Vietnam. Union County Sheriff’s Office! a Detention Officer since De- We had two Club Choice On April 24th, Deputy cember 2023. Congratulations award winners at the Square. Logan Bryson, Deputy Lillian to these three deputies! We Congratulations to Mike Whit- Leird, and Deputy David Har- hope this is the start of a long low from Turtletown, TN, with ris graduated from Basic Law and rewarding career! his beautiful red ‘74 Nova SS Enforcement Training at the Next, we would like and congratulations to Chuck Georgia Public Safety Train- to welcome our newest addi- Halloway, of Blairsville, GA, ing Center (GPSTC) in For- tion: Deputy Brayden Snow. with his gorgeous turquoise syth, Ga. This was the culmi- Deputy Snow comes to us and white ‘55 Chevy. nation of over three months of from the Murphy, NC Police Join us Saturday, Auintensive classroom and prac- Department where he has been gust 22nd, at the Copperhead tical training. They were then employed for the past couple Lodge at 171 Copperhead assigned to the Field Training of years. Deputy Snow re- Parkway, Blairsville, GA for a Chuck Halloway with Mickey Lince, Club VP Program within the Sheriff’s cently completed his Georgia Cruise In & Cook Out Show, Office. They have recently equivalency training to be rec- Deputy Brayden Snow “Pistons & Pitmasters”, 10 completed their field training ognized as a Peace Officer in as Officer of the Year by the AM - 4 PM. For show cars, and have now been released the State of Georgia. Deputy North Carolina Division of registration begins at 9 AM. onto their assigned shifts. Snow brings knowledge and Mother’s Against Drunk Driv- Awards at 3:30. Deputy Bryson and experience in the field of DUI ing (MADD). Please help us Win Big with the 2006 Deputy Harris have worked for Enforcement. Just this year, welcome Deputy Snow if you Raffle Truck: This year’s raffle the Sheriff’s Office as Deten- Deputy Snow was recognized see him around! N(Aug19,Z15)CA features a pristine 2006 Ford Ranger FX4 with less than Poet Sarah Herndon Mountain Wordsmiths’ featured Reader 20,000 original miles. For Mountain Wordsmiths ing. We offer writing events a $10 donation, tickets now continues into the Summer and writing classes, both offer three chances to win: 2026 season of featured read- online and in person. Moun- Grand Prize: The Ford Ranger ers on Thursday, August 27, tain Wordsmiths gatherings FX4 OR $5,000 Cash; Secat 10:30 a.m. via Zoom. The always take place on Zoom ond Prize: $1,000 Cash; Third gathering’s guest reader will on the fourth Thursday of Prize: $500 Cash. be poet Sarah Herndon. The each month except November How to Enter: Buying Raffle Truck, 2006 Ford Ranger monthly event is sponsored by and December. Attendees are tickets is easier than ever. Pur- North Carolina Writers’ Net- welcome to bring a poem or chase online at BlairsvilleCwork-West. short prose piece to read dur- ruisers.com via credit/debit Herndon writes at the ing Open Mic. Please limit the card or visit local partners sharp intersection of survival, reading to 3-5 minutes. Moun- United Community Bank and transformation, and the hard- tain Wordsmiths is not a writ- Batteries Plus+ in Blairsville. won art of taking up space ing critique group. Tickets are also available from without asking permission. Sarah Herndon Those wishing to at- any club member and at all Raised along the treacherous man nature from the margins, tend Mountain Wordsmiths live events. banks of the Salmon River her work examines what it may contact Carroll Taylor at Cruising for a Cause: in Idaho and shaped by a life costs to soften for survival in vibiaperpetua@gmail.com or Every ticket serves a higher lived across changing land- a world built for the loud and ncwngeorgiarep@gmail.com purpose. Since 2007, The scapes, her poetry probes the what it takes to reclaim your to receive the Zoom link. Our Blairsville Cruisers have thin line between hyper-vigi- own boundaries. Her writ- group is informal, and we wel- raised an average of $50,000 lance and sovereignty, holding ing is both a sanctuary for the come those who would simply annually to support local chilspace for both the quiet, liquid overlooked and an unyielding like to listen to the beauty of dren and veterans. Proceeds alchemy of breaking down refusal to shrink for rooms that wordsmithing. All who attend fund vital programs like “Shop and the deliberate strength of were never built to hold us. are encouraged to enjoy their with a Cruiser,” “Shop with a standing intact. NCWN-West contin- morning cup of coffee or tea Cop,” and “Shop with a Hero,” A lifelong observer who ues to stay in touch by using as we share our thoughts about ensuring no child goes without spent decades watching hu- technology to share our writ- writing. NT(Aug19,Z8)CA during the holidays. Addition- ally, the club awards three Need Blueprints? annual scholarships to local technical and trade school stu- dents. The Blairsville Cruisers is a 501(c)(3) non-profit orga- nization dedicated to the pres- ervation of classic automotive West Printing Company culture and the support of chil- dren and Veterans in Union, Towns, Clay and Cherokee For all your large format printing needs! Counties. NT(Aug19,Z17)CA The Wilderness Pickers in Concert at the Byron Herbert Reece Pavillion Saturday, August 22nd 266 Cleveland Street Join the Wilderness 2 blocks up from the Square on 129 Pickers for an enjoyable af- ternoon at the Reece Pavillon, 706-745-6343 Saturday August 22nd at 1 to 2:30 PM. westprinting@windstream.net This talented six-mem- ber acoustic group of friends Terri Reilly, Ted Dyk, Ken Sampson, John Weaver, Mike Henderson, and Roy Perren from the Blairsville area, will be performing the timeless sounds of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, Oldies, Country Clas- sic Rock and a touch of Blue Grass. Get ready to sing along to your favorite hits and re- live the magic of an era that changed music forever. Fea- turing the soulful sounds of the Beatles, Jim Croce, John Denver, the Eagles, Roy Orbi- son, Elvis, Merle Haggard,and more! The Wilderness Pickers Enjoy these acoustic This is a free concert of the farm. covers that will have you sing- and everyone is invited to at- Bring a lawn chair, ing along and tapping your tend. Donations are accepted snack, and drinks to enjoy feet. Come and join the fun! and appreciated for the upkeep yourself. NT(Aug19,Z11)CA Scam & Fraud Full Service Printer Awareness Class Golf Course Community Center Business Cards • Business Forms • Notecards Invitations • Blue Prints • Rack Cards • Posters 129 Union County Recreation Road Stamps • Labels Blairsville, GA 30512 Important Information Presented by Full Color printing at rock bottom prices! Union County Sheriff’s Office Tri-State Tech Support Fast, Professional Service United Community Bank Adult Protective Services 706-745-6343 Open to the Public westprinting@windstream.net August 26, 2026 • 10 AM
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 5B Church News in the Mountains of North Georgia Welcome Our New Missionaries from Utah and Alaska Reading the Bible for all its worth: Pray for Guidance “Where did God come of the first) were tools of in- from?” a young woman once terpretation which prevent a The Rev. asked. Before I could answer, naïve reading of a document. Victor H. Morgan she said, “I know.” “Please do The technical name for these Rector tell me,” I said and waited. tools is hermeneutics, which St. Luke’s “He came from T-man . . . Yes, refers to the science or method Church it is in the Bible!” she said ex- of making sense out of a text. Blue Ridge citedly. Most of you will have In The Church of Jesus I pulled out a concor- heard that the first rule of real do more research. Christ of Latter-day Saints, dance – this was before the estate is “location, location, 3. Recognize the proserving a mission blesses the days of smart phones and location.” In hermeneutics the gressive nature of scripture. lives of every missionary as Google – and found the verse first rule is “context, context, Christ is the ultimate and final well as the lives of those who she was citing -- Habak- context.” By context, I mean Word of the Father (Hebrews meet and come to know them. kuk 3:3. In context and in the finding out when and to whom 1:1,2). Therefore, the Word Members of the Church of Je- language of poetry, the prophet a particular passage was writ- Written must always conform sus Christ age 19 and over may was saying that God appeared ten and under what circum- to Him. More than that, Christ be called to teach the gospel to out of the East (Teman was a stances. Moreover, is the ac- should be sought in the Old those wanting to know more city or region east of Israel) tion reported affirmed and Testament scriptures. “It is about their Savior and His like the rising sun and shined commended? Judas when out they that bear witness to me,” Gospel. Our new missionaries: over his people signaling a and hanged himself. Should says Jesus in John 5:39. Elder Croak from St. George new day. we go and do likewise? 4. Don’t be a lone Utah, Elder Lister from Fair- Elder Croak, Elder Lister and Elder and Sister Lovingier This young woman was Setting a passage in its ranger. You are not the first banks, Alaska, and Elder and the gospel, and uniting fami- sus Christ strives to provide very sincere and had a com- rightful context is the first step person to read scripture. Find Sister Lovingier from Payson, lies for eternity. They build on charity to those in need and mendable confidence in God’s in avoiding illegitimate and out what others – the Church Utah. We are so very grateful that experience as senior mis- strengthen those who wish Word Written, yet, I would silly interpretations. Beyond Fathers, the Reformers and for missionaries who leave sionaries along with younger to develop faith in a higher have to say, she lacked the context there are five other trusted contemporary comtheir homes and families for missionaries serving in pairs. power. We are each part of tools necessary to RIGHTLY principles which will help a mentators – have said. two years to serve. “To serve Service opportunities may in- an eternal family, a son or divide the Word of Truth. In modern reader of scripture: 5. Pray. Seek the guidthe Lord as a missionary is a clude member and leader sup- daughter of a loving Father in this way, she reminds me of 1. Pay attention to ance of the Holy Spirit. glorious, sacred privilege that port, family history research, Heaven. No matter your story, another young woman who genre. ‘Genre’ refers to a type The Bible is a great treabrings eternal blessings to the book scanning and records we welcome you to join us as told me she was a member of of literature. Numerous genres sure, ultimately pointing us to individual and to those he or preservation, welfare and we all try to be a little bit bet- a certain church because “it can be found in the Bible: Christ the living Word. Let’s she serves.” (First Presidency, self-reliance services, commu- ter, a little bit kinder, a little was in the Bible”. She then history, poetry, wisdom and determine to read it for all its Nov. 2018) nity service, humanitarian ser- more helpful—because that’s produced a Bible and showed apocalyptic. “God came from worth. More mature Church vices, employment services, what Jesus taught. Request a me the combination of words Teman” (poetry) must be read BLESSED Lord, who members, often married education and development visit from missionaries. We’ll making up the name of the differently from Jesus at age hast caused all holy Scriptures couples, likely have experi- counseling, military relations, help you know what to ex- denomination with which she 12 years traveled with Mary to be written for our learning; enced serving, teaching, and visitors’ centers and historic pect at the Church of Jesus identified. and Joseph to Jerusalem” (his- Grant that we may in such wise leading others and working sites guides, or any number Christ. Then we’ll be at the In that case, all I could tory). hear them, read, mark, learn, to accomplish the Church’s of additional opportunities to door to greet you and sit with say was: “That’s interesting. 2. Interpret the part in and inwardly digest them, that divinely appointed responsi- serve. Our missionaries strive you on Sunday! To meet with I see you find great comfort light of the whole. If the sur- by patience and comfort of thy bilities of living the gospel of to build positive relationships our missionaries, learn more in your church. Keep reading face meaning of a passage holy Word, we may embrace, Jesus Christ, caring for those with others as they reach out to about the Church of Jesus your Bible and following Je- seems to be saying something and ever hold fast, the blessed in need, inviting all to receive local communities or interact Christ, or to request a Bible or sus.” that goes against other passag- hope of everlasting life, which with visitors at Church sites. a Book of Mormon, another What was lacking in es of scripture or is out of line thou hast given us in our Sav- The Church of Je- testament of Jesus Christ, vis- this young woman’s reading with the grand narrative of the iour Jesus Christ. Amen. (The Harmony Grove it comeuntochrist.org. of the Bible (as in the case Bible, reject this reading and Book of Common Prayer) Baptist Children’s Bethlehem Baptist by Lynne Pike Clothing Ministry Youth movie night The Church of Jesus Christ Union County Fellowship of Providence of Latter-day Saints The Children’s Clothing Bethlehem Baptist Christian Athletes “Fields of Faith” Methodist Ministry at Harmony Grove Baptist Church (1008 Town Church Youth movie night ages 10+ on Friday, August Corinth Baptist Union County Fellow- For an evening of fun, ship of Christian Athletes will faith and fellowship that you Church Services Creek School Road, Blairs- 21st. Please come join us and 5th Sunday Singing be hosting their 2nd Annual won’t forget. Mark your cal- Providence Methodville) is open to the commu- bring a friend! Food will be Please join us Sunday, “Fields of Faith” on Sunday, endars and be there! ist Church, 3075 Pat Colwell nity by appointment only. served at 6 PM; movie starts August 30th at 10:30 AM as August 23rd, 5-8 PM at The For more information Road, Blairsville, GA 30512; If there is a need for at 7 PM. Showing “I Can Only we welcome and worship with Fine Arts Center! or if you want to invest in the invites you to attend our Sunchildren or teen clothes, please Imagine”. Popcorn will be the Oak Grove Boys. A fel- The theme this year is ministry of Union County FCA day Church Service from 11 to contact the church office at served during the movie. lowship luncheon will follow. “A Living Hope”. Our focus you can contact Jerry Helton at 12 and Sunday School from 10 706-835-1449 and leave a Call 828-371-3340 for Corinth is located on Caven- is on Middle and High School 706-781-4362 or email: jerry- to 11. message. One of our volun- more information. Address: der Gap Road in Suches. All students, but everyone is wel- helton@fca.org. We are a small country teers will contact you as soon 2043 State Hwy. 325, Blairs- welcome. come. Free tee shirt for first church with a heritage of over as possible. ville, GA 30512. Rudy Tribble, Pastor 250 students. Bunker Hill 191 years. Welcome one and all! Mountain St. Francis of Assisi Mount Hebron Baptist Church Baptist Services Presbyterian Church Shady Grove Catholic Church We invite YOU to Come Worship With Us! Bunker Hill Baptist Church would like to invite Unity Church Fr. Cong Nguyen, Pastor you to worship with us. Sun- UMC Fundraiser 3737 Hwy. 515 E, Blairsville day School - 10 AM; Worship Shady Grove United of the Mountains 706-745-6400 - 11 AM. Methodist Church is taking 2309 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville Come worship with us www.stfrancisblairsville.com orders for their Rada Cutlery 706-781-3393 Sunday mornings at 11 AM Shady Grove UMC fundraiser and will continue Saturday Vigil: Service Times: A path to with Fellowship following. 4:30 PM & 6:30 PM (Spanish) Sunday Morning: 10:30 AM 1604 Owltown Road throughout the year. Contact JoAnn Hamby spiritual living. 3831 GA-515 | Blairsville Sunday Masses: 8:30 & 11 AM Wednesday: 7:00 PM Blairsville, GA at 706-781-4828 for more in- Sunday Service 10:30 706-745-8036 Sharing the love of Jesus in the 1237 Booger Hollow Rd. (706) 781-4729 formation; please leave a mes- UnityChurchoftheMountains.org mtnpres.org North Georgia Mountains and beyond 678-428-7118 Pastor Deron Shuler sage. Fundamental Independent Sunday School.......10:00 a.m. ŝŽĐĞƐĞŽĨƚůĂŶƚĂ Sunday Worship....11:00 a.m. /HGIRUG5RDG%ODLUVYLOOH Sunday Evening...... 5:00 p.m. VWFODUHVHSLVFRSDORUJ Wednesday............ 7:00 p.m. Sunday Worship +RO(XFKDULVWLQSHUVRQDQGRQ )DFHERRN6XQGD $0 4231 Trackrock Gap Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 11:00 am DQG:HGQHVGD 30 Timothy L. Mason, Pastor Sunday School 10:00 am Weekday Morning Prayer - 8 AM :HHNGD0RUQLQJ3UDHU $0 &RPSOLQH 30 )DFHERRNRQO 706-745-3130 - Church Phone • www.slbcga.org Rev. Alex Nixon 7KH5HY/L]6FKHOOLQJHUKRXGW 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. 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Page 6B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 Fifth Annual Shrimp/Shop With A Cop Fundraiser to be held Saturday, September 5th The Fifth Annual Church News in the Mountains Shrimp/Shop with a Cop Fun- When life falls short and doesn’t follow the instructions draiser is scheduled for Satur- Every life eventually wants marriages to succeed. day, Sept. 5, from 2:30-5:30 contains a chapter that wasn’t It wants relationships to flour- Rabbi p.m. at the Blairsville Police part of the plan. A relationship ish and commitments to en- Yonatan Department. breaks. A dream collapses. A dure. Yet it also recognizes Hambourger Biram Chapman, the promise isn’t kept. A decision the reality of human struggle. “Shrimp Snob,” will be do- made in haste creates conse- People make mistakes. Re- TASTE OF nating $6 for each pound of quences that linger for years. lationships become strained. TORAH his super fresh, wild-caught We all know what it feels like Circumstances arise that no- Georgia coast shrimp that is when life stops following the body expected. And when that rarely follows a straight line. sold during the fundraiser. You instructions. happens, the Torah does not The most meaningful can order shrimp by calling the Most instruction manu- turn away. Instead, it provides achievements in life often in- Police Dept. at 706-835-1692. als assume everything will go guidance for what comes next. volve setbacks, detours, disap- The deadline to order is Mon- according to plan. They tell What is especially striking is pointments, and second chancday, August 31. you what to do when things that the Torah’s divorce proce- es. A strong marriage may “This fundraiser is a lot are working properly. They dure is not casual. It requires require forgiveness. A lasting of fun and unusual. Teaming rarely tell you what to do after a carefully prepared written friendship may survive hurt up to bring fresh seafood to something has gone wrong. document, witnesses, and a feelings. A life of faith may Blairsville and raise money for One of the remarkable formal process. Even at the include moments of doubt and our kids at Christmas is a win- things about the Torah is that painful moment when a mar- failure. win for everyone involved,” it does. In Parshat Ki Teitzei, riage is ending, the Torah in- The measure of a percommented Chief Baxter receiving a donation check from Biram Chapman for a the Torah addresses one of the sists on dignity, clarity, and son is not whether they never Blairsville Police Chief past Shrimp/Shop With A Cop Fundraiser most painful realities a person protection for the people in- stumble. It is whether they Michael “Bear” Baxter. special fundraiser is just icing of Blairsville.” can face: the end of a marriage. volved. are willing to keep learning “It is always nice to on the cake,” Chapman said. Last year’s sales raised “When a man takes a wife and In other words, the To- after they do. That is one of come to the mountains and “I appreciate the support from over $1,300 for the Shop with marries her...” (Deuteronomy rah’s response to failure is the deepest messages hidden Blairsville. To be a part of this the Chief, the PD and the folks a Cop Christmas Fundraiser. 24:1). The Torah then provides not abandonment. It is com- within the laws of Parshat Ki detailed instructions govern- passion. This pattern appears Teitzei. Celebrating the Voting Rights Act of 1965 ing divorce. That may seem surprising. If marriage is sa- throughout Jewish life. The Torah teaches us how to seek The Torah does not stop speaking to us when we fail. cred, why spend time explain- forgiveness after wrongdoing, In many ways, that is when it ing how to end one? how to make restitution after begins speaking most gently. Why not simply teach causing harm, how to rebuild Because G-d’s instructions people how to build successful trust after it has been broken, were never meant only for marriages and leave it at that? and how to begin again after the moments when everything The answer reveals something we have fallen short. goes right. They were also important about the Torah it- A good teacher does not written for the moments when self. The Torah is not written stop teaching when a student we need help finding our way only for life’s ideal moments. struggles. A loving parent does back. It is also written for the mo- not stop caring when a child I wish you a good week ments when life falls short of makes a mistake. The Torah and Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi the ideal. presents G-d in much the same Yonatan Hambourger; y@ The Torah certainly way. He knows that growth tasteoftorah.org. NT(Aug19,Z5)CA Thursday Night Homecoming at Liberty Hill Church TV Church Service Everyone is invited to “Rise and Unite” event tune in every Thursday eve- On August 8, Union honking, waving, and giving vote is counted. ning to WGHC TV at 7 PM; County joined Indivisible thumbs up. Regardless of politi- also on Facebook; wotgtv. groups across the country to The “Rise and Unite” cal affiliation, we must stand com/ ROKU channel to hear celebrate a significant day in event invited people of all po- together. Please take a mo- Evangelist Evelyn Adams carhistory. Despite the heat, vol- litical leanings to support the ment to verify that your voter rying the Gospel around the unteers from Towns, Fannin, Voting Rights Act of 1965. registration is correct, includ- world. Prayer requests call and Union Counties came to- Our democracy relies on fair ing your current status and 706-671-7988. If Jesus speaks gether to wave signs and clean and free access to voting in address. Our power is in our to your heart send any love ofup trash at the park and ride every district, ensuring that all vote, and sitting this election fering to P.O. Box 394, Fairarea. We received tremendous citizens can voice their opin- out is not an option. mont, GA 30139. N(Aug19,Z1)CA support, with many passersby ions and that every legitimate Submitted by Candy Retter Free Bible studies Appalachia Gospel group “Hickory Stand” Liberty Hill Church with the Appalachia Gospel Why Medicare Pays More for the The Eastside Church of Christ, Morganton, GA is of- Family is excited to announce group “Hickory Stand”, Ca- free Bible studies. You it’s 154th Homecoming Cele- leb Dykes, Paul Wilson, Ja- Same Healthcare, Depending on the Building fering may request either mail cor- bration “Coming Home, Faith, mie Shook, and Perry Stalcup, Most people are prob- costing 563% more in the hos- respondence or one-on-one. Family, and Fellowship.” Join from Brasstown, NC, beginably aware that where they pital setting. Chris Denson Please call 706-374-3262 for us on Sunday, August 23, ning at 10:30 AM. receive their healthcare effects In July, the Centers for more information. N(Aug19,Z1)CA 2026. A Potluck Fellowship Medicare and Medicaid Ser- Director of Policy & Memorial Services at Meal following services. the price. For example, treat- Research for the The Cedar Tree begins at 10 The church is located at ment in an emergency room vices (CMS) took action to ad- Georgia Public Shabbat Services AM led by Pastor A.J. Nichols. 255 Liberty Hill Road, Hwy. costs more than in a primary dress this imbalance and pro- The Jewish Congrega- Followed by inside Church care physician’s office, even if posed a rule that would change Policy Foundation 515 just past Fannin/Union tion of Blue Ridge will hold Services and special singing County line. N(Aug19,Z4)CA the diagnosis in both places is how hospitals are reimbursed Friday night Shabbat services a sinus infection. for these services. $1.5 billion in out-of-pocket But perhaps less intui- Amid the hundreds of costs in a single year, accord- August 21, 2026. We will welcome con- Handheld Sermon: Church Hurt tive is that the payment can pages in the “Calendar Year ing to KFF. gregants starting at 7 PM with There are few hurts change depending on who 2027 Hospital Outpatient Pro- Proponents of this tiered Services beginning at 7:30 deeper than church hurt. David Krout owns the healthcare facility. spective Payment System pro- reimbursement structure have PM. Zoom will also be avail- When someone is posed rule” is a provision that noted that hospitals and health New World Roughly two-thirds of able. All are welcome whether wounded by a stranger, it’s Harvest Church Americans have private health chips away at exactly this kind systems incur costs that inde- full time or visiting. painful. When they’re woundinsurance, typically through of price disparity. CMS is pro- pendent physician offices and For more information ed by a friend, it’s even hard- d_krout@ their employer. But it is often posing to extend “site-neutral” other healthcare facilities do about location and Zoom de- er. But when they’re hurt by yahoo.com Medicare, the government payment policy to imaging not: primarily the costs of op- tail, email info@jcbrgeorgia. someone they trusted to lead health insurance program for services performed without erating 24/7 emergency care, org. NT(Aug19,A3)JT them closer to God—a pastor, sees it, and He cares about it. those aged 65 and older, that contrast — ultrasounds, as often for those without insur- an elder, a teacher, or another But don’t allow the failure of sets the benchmark for how well as CT scans, MRIs and X-rays that don’t use contrast ance. Hospitals have also ar- gued that patients treated in Welcoming Light believer—the wound can run an earthly shepherd to keep you from the Chief Shepherd healthcare is paid for in this A Non-Denominational deep. For some, that hurt is country. dye. Imaging that requires their outpatient departments who has never failed you. contrast is not included in this are sicker and more complex Church in Blairsville. Please enough to walk away from Healing takes time. Medicare has tradition- join us Sundays for Worship church altogether. ally paid hospitals more than shift. to treat. The Bible often de- Trust may take time. Find- Under the proposal, But these arguments at 9 AM at G & G Bakery ing another church may take physicians for the same rou- and Cafe and Wednesdays scribes God’s people as sheep, tine care—even when that care when these imaging services don’t hold up to scrutiny. Non- time. But don’t let yesterday’s are furnished at an “off-cam- profit hospitals are already ex- at 6 PM for Bible Study and and for good reason. Sheep are wound become tomorrow’s isn’t delivered inside the hos- potluck dinner also at G & G easily frightened, easily scatpital’s four walls. For common pus” hospital outpatient site, empt from taxes in exchange prison. Bakery and Cafe. Our website tered, and they depend on a There are still faithful procedures like ultrasounds Medicare would pay these for operating ]emergency is www.WelcomingLight.org shepherd for protection. Most churches. There are still pasand biopsies, “hospital out- facilities using the same fee services regardless of the pa- where you can learn about our shepherds love their flock schedule rate paid to indepen- tient’s ability to pay. Charging tors who love their people. patient departments” are paid Mission, Vision and Beliefs. and faithfully care for them. There are still believers who more than privately owned dent physician offices, rather patients with private health in- N(Aug19,Z2)CA But the Bible also warns that than the higher hospital out- surance more to offset losses will walk beside you with physician offices or imaging Mountain sometimes shepherds fail. grace and compassion. Most centers, even though the ex- patient rate that is currently elsewhere is an argument for Even spiritual leaders are hu- importantly, there is still a act same service is being per- applied. CMS estimates the change would save Medicare cross-subsidization that has taken root among policymak- Presbyterian Food man. They can make poor de- Savior with open arms. formed just as safely in each setting. and its beneficiaries a com- ers but needs to be reconsid- Pantry is open cisions, speak careless words, fall into sin, or neglect the If you’ve been away bined $260 million in the first ered. The Ecumenical Food very people they were called because of church hurt, per- The difference can be year alone — including about As for the complexity haps today is the day to take significant. Medicare pays Pantry at Mountain Presby- $70 million in reduced out-of- claim, MedPAC’s own analy- terian Church is open every to serve. one small step back toward the $164 for an ultrasound in a pocket costs for seniors. sis, also cited by KFF, found Thursday from 9:30 AM to 1 That doesn’t excuse the Good Shepherd. It is never too physician’s office, but $339 While those savings rep- that differences in patient se- PM. We are once again open- hurt, but it does explain why it late to heal, never too late to for the same scan in a hospi- resent real money, especially verity between hospital outpa- ing our doors to the pantry happens. forgive, and never too late to tal outpatient department; a for seniors on fixed incomes, tient departments and physi- for people to come inside to Jesus said, “I am the begin again. NT(Aug19,Z12)CA biopsy priced at $150 in an in- they also reflect a much bigger cian offices are actually small fill their own boxes. We are good shepherd: the good shepdependent office can run $800 problem. — and that the services typi- located right next door to the herd giveth his life for the Learn more in a hospital setting. Rep. Ja- Catholic Church in Blairsville. sheep.” (John 10:11, KJV) son Smith, the U.S. House MedPAC, the indepen- dent commission that advises cally targeted by such reforms, like ultrasounds, tend to be Located at 3831 Hwy. 515 E. Notice that Jesus didn’t about the Bible Ways and Means Committee NT(Aug19,Z1)CA point us to a perfect pastor. He Would you like to learn Congress on Medicare pay- low-complexity to begin with. more about the Bible? Click on chairman, cited these figures pointed us to a perfect Shepat a congressional hearing in ment policy, has estimated that more broadly aligning It’s a modest step, and a telling one, when CMS Bunker Hill herd. website and register for Free April, as Sally Pipes reported Baptist Services If you’ve been hurt by a Bible Study! blairsvillebible. payment rates towards site acknowledges that patients worldbibleschool. org. in Forbes. neutrality across outpatient shouldn’t be left to pick up the Bunker Hill Baptist church, your pain is real. God NT(Aug19,Z1)CA This isn’t just a Medi- settings could have cut Part tab based on who happens to Church would like to invite care problem, either. Accord- B spending by $6 billion and own the building where it’s de- you to worship with us. Sun- Corban at Calvary Alliance Church ing to data compiled by Blue saved Medicare beneficiaries livered. N(Aug19,Z5)CA day School - 10 AM; Worship Everyone is invited to The Rooted & Rising Tour Cross Blue Shield Association - 11 AM. N(Aug19,Z1)CA Calvary Alliance Church for will feature worship in both and cited by KFF, commercial Masonic a special concert of worship English and Spanish, reflectinsurers paid 31% more for Presidents Zion Baptist music presented by Corban, ing the diverse backgrounds of clinic visits performed in hospital outpatient departments of the Church Services an international worship band currently engaged in its “Root- the band members. More than a concert, each gathering is dethan in physician offices in Join us at Zion Church, ed & Rising” tour across the 2022. This gap was even more United States Suches each Sunday at 11 AM, Southeast U.S. This concert signed to be an opportunity for worship, storytelling and constark for other services, with of America “Mega Signs for Our Lord’s will be held at Calvary Alli- nection. chest X-rays costing 238% Return”. ance Church on Tuesday, Au- Rich Brown, co-foundmore and prostate biopsies Masonic Presidents Zion Church is located gust 25, at 7 PM. The church er of Inca Link International There have been 14 son only took the 1st of the 3 at 10 Zion Road and Wolf Pen is located in the Chatuge Har- and one of Corban’s pastors, $ CASH 4 $ Presidents that were Freema- degrees, so if you count him Gap Road (180) in Suches. bor Plaza, directly across from states: “Our goal isn’t simply N(Aug19,Z2)CA sons. This is the complete list as a Freemason, there are actu- the Towns County Schools on to perform. We want people $ $ Opportunity $ $ GOLD $ $ of presidents who were and includes: George Washing- ally 15). While there are occa- to change a life Hwy 76 East in Hiawassee. Corban is made up of to worship with us, experi- ence a little of the beauty and $ Jewelry $ ton (Initiated: 1752); James sional historical debates and musicians and ministry lead- Do you know a loved ers from Latin America and energy of Latin America, and $ $ Monroe; Andrew Jackson; varying levels of participa- leave encouraged by what God $ $ SILVER $ $ James K. Polk; James Buchan- an; Andrew Johnson; James A. tion among these individuals, all are officially recognized one who struggles with addic- the United States who share tions or strongholds? is doing across cultures and $ Jewelry $ Garfield; William McKinley; as having been initiated and a passion for using music to Unity Farm, a biblically connect with God and with around the world.” For more information $ Labosco’s at the $ Theodore Roosevelt; William raised as Master Masons with- based, 12-step Men’s Recov- peoples across cultures. $ $ about the concert, please con- Blairsville Picker’s Barn Howard Taft; Warren G. Hard- in the fraternity. For deeper ery Home is located in Union The band’s mission is tact Pastor Brian at 910-474- $ $ County. For more information 27 Orbit Drive, Blairsville ing; Franklin D. Roosevelt; historical context, we will ex- $ $ simple: for every presenta- 7042. A love offering will be $ 706-745-0097 $ Harry S. Truman; and Gerald plore each POTUS’ Masonic please call 706-851-5390 or 706-455-9043. NT(Aug19,Z1)CA tion to connect the hearts of received during the concert for CASH WAITING $$ CASH WAITING! R. Ford. ***Lyndon B. John- journey in the weeks to come! people with the heart of God. Corban and its ministries.
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 7B MICHAEL “MIKE” GORDON TERRY WELDON ATKINS CHARLES WHITEHEAD REID SAUNDERS Terry Weldon Atkins, 70, Michael “Mike” Charles Mr. Gordon Reid Saun- a beloved father, grandfather, Whitehead, 61, of Hiawassee, ders, age 85, of Blairsville, son, and brother, passed away on died Monday, August 10, while passed away on Thursday, Au- August 13, 2026. Born on Sep- cycling, one of his favorite gust 13, 2026 in the Union tember 5, 1955, in Roswell, New things. Mike was born on No- General Hospital from injuries Mexico, Terry lived a full life that vember 18, 1964, in St. Peters- received in an automobile ac- was packed with adventure and DAVID WELLS PARRISH JOYCE ANN burg, FL, to parents Roger Allan love. He was a proud member of THOMAS PAUL DAVIS cident. Mr. Saunders was born David Wells Parrish, of MARCHESSAULT Whitehead and Leah Rae Levy on September 5, 1940 in New the Young Cane Masonic Lodge Thomas Paul Davis, 70, Cherry Log, GA, passed away on Mrs. Joyce Ann Marches- Whitehead. In 1999, Mike found- York City, NY, the son of the late and had a passion for cruising on of Blairsville, GA, passed away August 10, 2026, in Blairsville at sault, age 78, of Riverbend Road, ed MCW Electric, and he contin- his Harley, exploring the open Gordon and Katherine Saunders. on Friday, July 24, 2026. He was the age of 76. Known to most as Blairsville, passed away Thurs- ued running the small business road wherever it led him. Reid loved spending time with Family and friends knew born on February 12, 1956, in Wells, he was born on September day, August 11, 2026 in the Union that employed five locals until his his wife, Sandi; his family and Germany to his late parents, Paul 21, 1949, in Staunton, VA, to his County Nursing Home following death. Mike’s heart and soul went Terry as a storyteller who could their two dogs, Tootsie and Jack. light up a room with his tales. Duncan Davis and Brigitte (Kra- mother, Catherine “Kitty” Par- an extended illness. Joyce was into his work and all else that he They loved all animals. He was kowski) Davis. rish and his father, Earl Roger born in Providence, RI, March did. He was a loving and caring He loved good music, movies, husband and father. He enjoyed a loving and caring husband, fa- and the thrill of martial arts and As a young boy, Thomas Parrish. 12, 1948, the daughter of the late ther and grandfather. He was premoved with his family from Ger- At 18, Wells enlisted in the Ashton Manning and Audrey Ru- water skiing, cycling and surfing karate. Cooking for the people dolph Manning. She loved travel- more than most people. ceded in death by his parents and he loved was one of his favorite many to Safety Harbor, Florida. United States Marine Corps and also a sister, Sally Saunders; and He quickly learned English and was soon deployed to Vietnam. ing, going out to eat and spending Mike is survived by his ways to show he cared. time with her grandchildren. She wife and best friend of thirty-four a brother, Ted Saunders. Gordon Terry is survived by his went on to achieve the rank of He served two tours as a machine was a devout Christian and was gunner and was shot down twice was a loving and caring mother, years, Paula Hartwell Whitehead; daughters, Tiffany Atkins and Eagle Scout, reflecting his de- active in their church. Brooke Atkins; son-in-law, James termination and love of the out- in a helicopter while overseas. sister and grandmother. Joyce at- son, Zachary Whitehead; daugh- His experiences in Vietnam, tended Coosa Methodist Church. ter, Hannah Whitehead, all of Surviving Mr. Saunders Shubert; along with his parents, doors. are his loving wife, Sandra Saun- Harold and Elizabeth Atkins, sib- Thomas later became a along with his toughness and Surviving Mrs. Marches- Hiawassee; as well as Hannah’s determination, earned him the sault are daughter and son-in- fiancé, Matthew Whelan of Sa- ders of Blairsville; one daughter, lings, David Atkins, Joey Atkins, competitive roller skater, a pas- law, Holly and Raymond Mc- vannah; Michael’s stepmother, Jennifer Saunders of Acworth, and Jeannie Anderson; brothersion that brought him many life- nickname “The REAL Rambo,” a name given to him by his clos- Cormack III of Lisbon, NH; one Sarah Whitehead of Inverness, GA; one son and daughter-in- in-law, Ricky Anderson; and his long friendships. He went on to son and daughter-in-law, Michael FL; and his beloved dog and cat, law, Jeffrey and Katie Saunders cherished grandchildren, Camenjoy a successful career with the est friends. After Vietnam, Wells transferred to the United States and Kristina Marchessault of Kashmir and A.C. Many mem- of Tampa, FL; four grandchil- eron Ringenberg, Zeke Ringen- Pinellas County School System, California; two sisters, Shirley bers of an extended, but close- dren: Theodore Howe, Rachel berg, and AJ Shubert. He also where he met Catherine “Cathy,” Navy where he served as a scuba diver and sonar technician for Worthington of Rhode Island, knit family, as well as friends, Saunders, Arianna Lewis, Sean leaves behind numerous nieces, the love of his life. They were Kathleen Tirpak of New York; also survive. Knudtson, their beloved dogs, nephews, and a wide circle of seven years. In both branches of married for 44 years and shared his service he received countless five grandchildren: Mikayla and The family will hold a Tootsie and Jack; several neph- friends who will miss him dearly. a lifetime of love, friendship, and awards and decorations. In 1979 Michael Marchessault, Jacob, Celebration of Mike’s life, details ews, many other relatives and A memorial service will be cherished memories. he left military life behind and Emily and Joshua McCormack; of which will be announced later. friends also survive. held on Friday, August 21, 2026, Following their retire- eventually made his home in the many other relatives and friends In lieu of flowers, the family re- A memorial service will be at 4 PM at Cochran McDaniel ment, Thomas and Cathy moved mountains of North Georgia. He also survive. quests that donations be made to held at a later date when Sandra Funeral Home & Crematory to their mountain home in Blairs- was a skilled and hardworking No services are planned the Towns-Union Humane Soci- recovers and will be announced. Blairsville Chapel. ville, GA. There, they enjoyed carpenter who took pride in his at this time. In lieu of flowers if ety or to any local food pantry in In lieu of flowers if you wish, the The family will receive the beauty of the mountains, car- work and was always willing to you wish, the family requests that Mike’s memory. friends from 3 - 4 PM on Friday, donations may be made to the family requests that donations August 21, 2026, at Cochran Mcing for their beloved cats, partici- help someone who needed it. Mountain View Funeral may be made to the Union Counpating in patriotic parades in their Wells was a free spirit Coosa Methodist Church in Mrs. Home, of Blairsville, is in charge Daniel Funeral Home & Crema- Marchessault’s memory. ty Humane Society Mountain tory Blairsville Chapel. uniquely decorated truck known who lived life on his own terms. of the arrangements. You may Shelter in Mr. Saunders memory. as “The Beast,” and spending He was independent and could be Mountain View Funeral sign the family guest book and Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge send condolences online at www. Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the famtime with longtime friends-many tough, but he was also a deeply Home of Blairsville is in charge of whom had also relocated from caring man who looked out for of the arrangements. You may mountainviewfuneralhome.com. ily of Terry Atkins. Sign the guest sign the family guest book and of the arrangements. You may register, send condolences, or con- Florida. the people and animals he cared sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www. tribute to help the family with Mr. Thomas was preceded in about. He had a love for the out- send condolences online at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Atkins funeral expenses online at death by his beloved wife, Cathy; doors, wood carving, Arabian mountaiinviewfuneralhome.com. horses, and Harley-Davidson www.cochranmcdaniel.com. he is survived by his stepson, Christopher Stull and his wife Te- motorcycles. resa; step-grandchildren, Veroni- One of the most important Celebrate Recovery - companions in Wells’ life was his ca and Christian; his cherished cats; and many dear friends. Arabian horse, Fuzzy. The two A Christ-Centered Recovery Program Thomas and Cathy’s ashes were together for more than 25 Celebrate Recovery is a need to stop denying the pain, will be scattered together, en- years, and Fuzzy was more than Christ-centered recovery pro- stop playing God, start admitsuring they remain united in the just a horse to Wells—he was his gram that meets every Thurs- ting our powerlessness, and start mountains they came to love. best friend. Wells lived a life that was day evening, 52 weeks a year. admitting that our lives have be- Cochran-McDaniel Fu- uniquely his own. He worked It is a safe place for individu- come unmanageable. We need a neral Home is honored to serve hard, helped those around him, als to begin their journey of power greater than ourselves to the family of Thomas Paul Davis. and spent his time doing the breaking free from all life's restore us and that Higher Pow- You may sign the guest register things he enjoyed. He will be hurts, habits, and hang-ups. er is Jesus Christ! and send condolences to the fam- missed by those who knew him. SHIRLEY MAE "I know that nothing Meetings are held every ily at www.cochranmcdaniel.com. Mountain View Funeral SCHECTER good lives in me, that is, in my Thursday evening in Build- Home of Blairsville is in charge DONNA ANN MOSS Mrs. Shirley Mae Schect- sinful nature. For I have the ing G, 7-9 PM, at First Bap- Loving Church of the arrangements. You may Donna Ann Moss, age er, age 86, of Hearth Stone Drive, desire to do what is good, but tist Church-Blairsville. If you sign the family guest book and 74, of Hiawasse, Georgia passed Blairsville, passed away peace- I cannot carry it out" (Romans have any questions, email Blessed is our wonderful send condolences online at www. away Wednesday, August 12, fully at her home Wednesday, 7:18). The power to change only crfbcb@windstream.net or church, Day of Grace Baptist mountainviewfuneralhome.com. 2026. She was born in Long Is- August 12, 2026 following a Church, 269 Saw Mill Road. land, New York to the late Jess comes from God's grace. We call 706-781-6288. NT(Aug19,Z1)CA brief illness. Shirley was born Offering a great message ev- Addiction Support Clampitt, Sr. and Ann Doyle on July 3, 1940 at King Daughery Sunday; Sunday School Refuge Recovery Meet- Clampitt on January 18, 1952. ter Hospital in Staunton, VA. She starts at 10 AM; Church Ser- ing: Tuesdays 6:30 PM, 111 She was a member of Bell Scene graduated from Lee High School vice at 11 AM. Please join us Baptist Church. Donna was a de- and went to become an excep- River Street, Hiawassee, GA; voted wife, mother, grandmother, for God’s love that will stay in 706-970-7754. Sponsored by tional elementary teacher of thir- great-grandmother, and sister ty-six years. She was a wonderyour heart all week. N(Aug19,Z2)CA NMZ Church. NT(Aug19,Z2)CA who loved her family dearly. She ful best friend and wife. Shirley will be deeply missed by all of learned to sign the Praise songs, Griefshare Seminar Beginning at those who knew and loved her. which she did at Fellowship of She is preceded in death Mcconnell Memorial Baptist Church by her parents, Jess Clampitt, Sr. the Hills Church. This was her prayer language to God. I know Starting on Thursday, time during the 13 weeks. The and Ann Doyle Clampitt, and sis- that she loved Jesus Christ and is August 27, 2026 – November in-person sessions will meet ter-in-law, Ronnie Clampitt. She with him in Heaven. is survived by her loving hus- Surviving Shirley is her 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM – 12:30 in the Family Life Center at band, Alton Moss; children, Den- PM, McConnell Memorial McConnell Memorial Bap- loving husband, Jordon; her sis- nis (Kate) Moss, Cenlya (Chuck) ter, Virginia Sensabaugh; daugh- Baptist Church in Hiawas- tist Church, Room 219. Cost Galloway, and Justin (Maryann) see, GA, located at 84 Church is $20 for the workbook and ter, Andrea Medina, son-in-law, Moss; grandchildren, Cara (Jus- Mark Medina; and grandkids, Street, will be hosting an in- scholarships are available. tin) Miner, Casey Galloway, Jada Rachel and Tony Pipkin. person interdenominational To register for this ses- Galley, and Rowan Moss; great- A Celebration of Life grief recovery program called sion, participants may go onto grandchildren, Kopelynn, Reid, service will be held at later date GriefShare. the GriefShare.org website and Kollyns Miner; siblings, Jess at the Fellowship of the Hills This program is a Bible- and under “Find a Session”, Clampitt, Sr., Wesley (Vanna) Church with Pastor Scott Boisier based program designed for click on Hiawassee, GA and Clampitt, Benita (Bill) England, and Pastor Nick Sommer offici- and Anita (Mike) Solesbee; along men and women that have ex- the icon for McConnell Me- with many nieces, nephews, ex- ating and will be announced. In perienced the loss of a family morial Baptist and register, or lieu of flowers if you wish, the tended family members, and member, a loved one, or friend come to our first session and friends. family requests that donations due to death. Participants will we will help you register. Visitation was held on Sat- may be made to Smile Train or be with facilitators who un- For more information or urday, August 15, 2026 from 11 St. Jude Children’s Hospital or derstand their feelings of loss additional assistance, please AM - 2 PM at Bell Scene Baptist Doctors Without Boarders or to Church. Wounded Warrior Project in Shirand have all experienced grief call Chris at 706-896-2281, ley’s memory. personally. church office at MMBC or you Funeral was held on Satur- day, August 15. 2026 at 2 PM at Mountain View Funeral This is a 13-week semi- may contact the Program Di- Home of Blairsville is in charge nar with each class being a rector, Kimberly Hales at 248- Bell Scene Baptist Church Banister-Cooper is in of the arrangements. You may stand alone session so that a 318-3286. We look forward to charge of arrangements for Mrs. sign the family guest book and person is welcome to join any- seeing you there! T(Aug12,A2)JT Moss. send condolences online at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com. Fairview Baptist MOUNTAIN VIEW FUNERAL Church Services HOME & CREMATORY You are invited to join us at Fairview Baptist Church Blairsville 706-745-2156 / Hiawassee 706-896-6000 Murphy 828-837-9599 / Blue Ridge 706-632-5968 DISTINCTIVE SERVICE AT MODERATE COST for a wonderful time of wor- Mountain View Funeral Home & Crematory McCaysville 706-492-3321 ship and fellowship. Sunday was built to Honor our Lord, Jesus Christ school -10 AM; Worship ser- Celebrating Life & Treasuring Every Memory Before building Mountain View Funeral Home, we made a vice - 11 AM; Evening service - 6 PM. Address is 10 Fairview commitment to God, our family, friends and community to lower Church Road. Terry Atkins Frederick Brumm funeral prices and be the most reasonable funeral home in the area, Come and experience 08/13/2026 08/08/2026 the joy encouragement and Blairsville Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel while providing quality merchandise and distinctive service. We presence of the Lord with us. promise to keep this commitment, and our prices will be the lowest We look forward to welcom- Jerald E. Janasiak Margaret Mary Miklos ing you. in the tri-state area, no matter what the cost... Guaranteed. Please Rev. Tommy Jones 08/04/2026 08/07/2026 feel free to call or come by and compare prices and quality. N(Aug19,Z2)CA Hiawassee Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel Charles and Benny The Church of Michael William Hembree Brenda Queen No Additional Charge for use of our chapel for funeral services Jesus Christ of 08/09/2026 08/09/2026 No Charge for register book • No Charge for acknowledgement cards Latter-day Saints Murphy Chapel Blue Ridge Chapel No Additional Charge for more than one night visitations The Church of Jesus No Charge for local hospital or home removals. Christ of Latter-day Saints William Stanley Christopher Dignified Service to All, Regardless of Financial Situations. meets weekly on Sundays at 08/06/2026 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY BENNY ERWIN AND CHARLES LONG 10 AM for Worship, 11 AM for McCaysville Chapel OVER 57 YEARS EXPERIENCE Sunday School, and 7 PM on 119 Murphy Hwy. • Blairsville, GA• (706) 745-3456 N(Dec17,2003ufnB) Tuesdays for scripture study. Please join us at 34 Rogers Two Families - Obit Line 706-745-9991 Street in Blairsville. All are One Heart to Serve Online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com welcome to attend! NT(Aug19,Z2)CA
Page 8B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 Automobiles, Rentals, Real Estate, Pets, Services, Help Wanted, Legals, & More... You’ll find it all in the North Georgia News Classifieds. Deadline for ALL Classifieds Ads is 4 p.m. on Friday Deadline for ALL Real Estate Display Ads is Noon on Thursday CALL 706-745-6343 or email cs@nganews.com TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! AUTOMOBILES ABLE MINI STORAGE. 5x10 & 10x15 available. Call $100 A DAY NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS All creditors of the estate of Edwin Gravatt, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are SAMUEL VANCE BLYTHE DECEASED CASH plus, IN RE: ESTATE OF Madeline Rousseau hereby notified to render in their demands to ESTATE NO. 2024-119 706-745-8834. N(Apr24-ufn) All creditors of the estate of Madeline Rous- the undersigned according to law, and all per- NOTICE 1970 CORVETTE GOLD seau, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted [For discharge from office and all liability] LUNCH! EDITION, Low mileage, 2 PROFESSIONAL OFFICE are hereby notified to render in their demands to said estate are required to make immediate PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY to the undersigned according to law, and all payment to the Personal Representative. Re: PETITION OF DANIEL J. DAVENPORT, tops: hard & cloth top. 1997 COTTAGES ON HWY 515. persons indebted to law, and all persons in- This 7th day of August, 2026. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR FOR DISCHARGE AS 1500 Off Road 4 wheel drive, Boutique executive offices debted to said estate are required to make BY: Daryle Gravatt ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF SAMUEL crate motor, needs trans with parking. $1,795/month. Work the Harvest at immediate payment to the Personal Repre- sentative. 3197 County Road 507 Wildwood, FL 34785 VANCE BLYTHE, DECEASED. To Whom it may concern: & battery. 706.897.4425, Ideal for CPA, attorney, insur- Crane Creek Vineyards This 14th day of August, 2026. ATTORNEY: Christopher Chapman This is to notify you to file an objection, if there BY: Elizabeth R. Wagner 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite 202 is any, to the above-referenced petition, in 706.994.7931. N(Aug19,26) ance, counseling, real estate or 16445 County Road 31, Lot 80 Savannah, GA 31406 this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August design professionals. Call 772- Young Harris, GA Centre, AL 35960 N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) 31, 2026. ATTORNEY: G. William Little, III BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the FOR SALE 341-3700. NT(Aug19) Contact Jac at 4805 Old Highway 76 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN RE: ESTATE OF Danny Lee Brown petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections PINBALL MACHINE - CAP- VACATION (704) 759-6542 N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS All creditors of the estate of Danny Lee Brown, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their demands to should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless TAIN FANTASTIC. Looks IN RE: ESTATE OF Harold J. Mull the undersigned according to law, and all per- you qualify to file as an indigent party. Conand plays great. $2995. Call RENTALS PART TIME HELP WANT- ED: Need part time office All creditors of the estate of Harold J. Mull, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are 954-593-5508. Leave message hereby notified to render in their demands to payment to the Personal Representative. filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later if no answer. N(Aug19) help/salesperson for the Towns the undersigned according to law, and all per- This 7th day of August, 2026. date. If no objections are filed, the petition may sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted BY: Matthew Conrad Brown be granted without a hearing. County area. Send resume to to said estate are required to make immediate 3411 Spirit Lake Cutoff Kristin Stephens Stanley northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail payment to the Personal Representative. Spirit Lake, ID 83869 Judge of the Probate Court YARD SALE .com or stop by the North Geor- gia News office at 266 Cleve- This 14th day of August, 2026. BY: Randy James Mull 87 Devonwood Drive ATTORNEY: Janna D. Akins PO Box 923 Blairsville, GA 30514 By: Charla Dyer Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Marion, NC 28752 Blairsville, GA 30512 MULTI STORAGE. Satur- land Street, Blairsville, GA. N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) Address day, August 22nd, 8 am-2 pm. NT(ufn,nc) NOTICE (706) 439-6006 NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS The Legacy Link, Inc. Area Agency on Aging Telephone Number Located at A-P Storage, 5657 MOUNTAIN VIEW OIL IN RE: ESTATE OF Marion Joseph West, Jr. (AAA) is announcing the Request for Propos- N(Aug19) Murphy Hwy, Blairsville, GA. All creditors of the estate of Marion Joseph als (RFP) for the State of Georgia, Fiscal Year CHANGE NOW HIRING West, Jr., deceased, late of Union County, 2028 (July 1, 2027 – June 30, 2028). We are IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Furniture, antiques, clothes, Full-Time Oil Change Service Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their accepting Statement(s) of Interest from or- STATE OF GEORGIA baby items, holiday decor and demands to the undersigned according to ganizations September 8 – September 25, IN RE: ESTATE OF Technicians: Previous mechani- law, and all persons indebted to law, and all 2026. Please submit a Statement of Interest RONALD S. BAKER so much more! N(Aug19) cal or automotive oil change persons indebted to said estate are required including your organization’s name, service DECEASED to make immediate payment to the Personal provided, counties of interest, and contact ESTATE NO. 2025-140 experience is beneficial but Representative. information. This Statement of Interest should NOTICE WANTED will train the right individual willing to learn. Must speak, This 14th day of August, 2026. BY: Darla Lin Conner 166 Skeenah Gap Road be emailed directly to Lisa Howard, Con- tracts and Quality Director, at Lshoward@ legacylink.org. Respondents will receive the [For discharge from office and all liability] PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY Re: PETITION OF ELAINE B. WOODS FOR DIS- read and write English, valid Blairsville, GA 30512 schedule of events and the full RFP after the CHARGE AS EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF JUNK CARS: We pay CASH driver license, 18yrs old or N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) Statement of Interest period has closed. Pro- RONALD S. BAKER, DECEASED. posals for one or more of the services listed To Whom it may concern: for junk cars. Call (706) 379- 25 Years of Experience older. Work hours are Tues-Sat, NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS below in the following counties served by The This is to notify you to file an objection, if there 3190. N(Jun21,UFN) 9a-5p (closed Sun-Mon). Very IN RE: ESTATE OF Timothy Gerard Franco Legacy Link, Inc. will be considered: Banks • is any, to the above-referenced petition, in Now Accepting Property Listings All creditors of the estate of Timothy Ge- Dawson • Forsyth • Franklin • Habersham • this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August WANTED - TOP DOLLAR clean operation. Apply in person rard Franco, deceased, late of Union County, Hall • Hart • Lumpkin • Rabun • Stephens • 31, 2026. www.georgiaemr.com 10am-5pm, Tues-Sat at 249 Blue Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their Towns • Union • White. Bid opportunities are BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the PAID: Blairsville Pick- demands to the undersigned according to available for the following services within petition must be in writing, setting forth the er’s Barn. Antiques, Clean (877) 307-3367 Ridge Hwy, Blairsville, GA. law, and all persons indebted to law, and all the region: Evidence-based wellness services grounds of any such objections. All objections persons indebted to said estate are required (bids may be to serve individual counties but should be sworn to before a notary public or Furniture, Collectibles, Resumes can also be emailed to make immediate payment to the Personal must provide both programs): Bingocize, and before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Pottery, Art, Glassware, Farm CABIN RENTAL to: tankshot14@gmail.com Representative. This 14th day of August, 2026. Falls-Prevention - A Matter of Balance; Health Promotion / Disease Prevention Services (to be must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- Equipment & More! Gold IN BEAUTIFUL WEARS VALLEY NT(Aug19-Oct7) BY: Madelyn Eddings provided throughout the region in the follow- tact probate court personnel for the required & Silver Coins, Jewelry. 3842 Cara Lane ing categories: Nutrition Education, Lifestyle amount of filing fees. If any objections are Top dollar paid! 1 mile on GATEWAY TO THE SMOKIES GATLINBURG—PIGEON FORGE BANKRUPTCY Zephyrhills, FL 33541 ATTORNEY: Daniel J. Davenport Management, Physical Activity, and Health Awareness/Disease Prevention); Senior Cen- filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may 19/129 South of the Square! PO Box 923 ter Services in Towns and/or Union County be granted without a hearing. 706-745-0097. N(Jun5,ufn) DEBT RELIEF Blairsville, GA 30514 N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) with all services provided at a location that can support all of the following services: Con- Kristin Stephens Stanley Judge of the Probate Court gregate Meals and Health Promotion/Disease By: Charla Dyer SCRAP CARS WANTED - THE LANCE NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY Prevention activities for older adults’ on-site Deputy Clerk VALUE AT MORE THAN $75.00 participation, staging and facilitating delivery 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Top Dollar Paid including pick- LAW FIRM, P.C. Pursuant to O.C.G.A 17-5-54, any party claim- of Home Delivered Meals, and Transportation- Blairsville, GA 30512 up - call or text Todd at Tank ing an interest in the following property is Individual-Voucher Services to assist with Address Town USA - 706.633.6072 FREE hereby notified that on August 6th, 2026 said property was located in the evidence room travel within the county. In addition, complete intakes and assessments for all services, pre- (706) 439-6006 Telephone Number leave msg. N(Jul15,ufn) CONSULTATION of the Union County Sheriff’s Office in Union pare and transmit reports, and store files per N(Aug19) County, Georgia. the US Department of Health and Human Ser- Item vices, Georgia Department of Human Services, IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY GAINFULLY EMPLOYED 57 Sears Way 1. Remington model 742. Serial number: as required, following all HIPAA compliance STATE OF GEORGIA 36-YEAR-OLD MALE Blairsville, GA 30514 B7035xxx laws. All providers must be fully licensed to IN RE: ESTATE OF 2. Stevens model 311. No serial number. perform the service being provided and meet AUGUST BALDWIN TURNER SEEKING TO RENT A PET- 706-835-1212 3. Taurus model 85. Serial number: JP67xxx HIPAA compliance requirements. Details for all DECEASED FRIENDLY ROOM. Willing WE ARE A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY. WE 4. Iver Johnson rifle. Serial number: 015xxx the service requirements can be found within ESTATE NO. 2015-108 to assist with cleaning, cooking, 5. Mossberg 100. Serial number: BA172xxx the GA DHS Policy and Manual Management NOTICE HELP PEOPLE FILE FOR BANKRUPTCY RELIEF. 6. Browning model 22. No serial number. System at https://pamms.dhs.ga.gov/das/ [For discharge from office and all liability] yard work, chores, etc. Please 7. Model 98 rifle. Serial number: 2xxx. hcbs-5300-manual/. PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY call/text Jeremy at 706-994- 8. Rg 40 revolver. Serial number: R075xxx. NT(Aug12-Sept2) Re: PETITION OF RAYMOND B. LAIL FOR DIS- 5985. N(Apr1,ufn) LEGAL ADS Any party claiming an interest in said property is hereby further notified that you must file a claim in accordance with O.C.G.A. 17-5-54 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA CHARGE AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF AU- GUST BALDWIN TURNER, DECEASED. To Whom it may concern: COVE CREEK COTTAGE: Cozy, within 30 days of the fourth publication of the IN RE: ESTATE OF This is to notify you to file an objection, if there NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS PETS unique setting next to Cove Creek, 2 BR/2 BA, fireplace, hot tub, king bed, private yet convenient, IN RE: ESTATE OF Gary Austin Kellman, Estate No. 2026-62 Notice of Disposition of Unclaimed Property in the North Georgia News by serving said claim to the undersigned seizing agency by certi- TERESA TIDWELL TURNER DECEASED ESTATE NO. 2016-65 is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August 31, 2026. All creditors of the estate of Gary Austin Kell- fied mail, return receipt requested. The serial NOTICE BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the sleeps six. man deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, FREE! 3 RAT TERRIER FOR MORE INFO & are hereby notified to render in their demands numbers to the above listed items have been [For discharge from office and all liability] petition must be in writing, setting forth the partially hidden, owner must be able to prove PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY grounds of any such objections. All objections DOGS - 1 year old, treeing RESERVATIONS CALL... to the undersigned according to law, and all which case the items were seized from or Re: PETITION OF RAYMOND B. LAIL FOR DIS- should be sworn to before a notary public or squirrel. White & brown - persons indebted to law, and all persons in- have valid proof of purchase indicating the CHARGE AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF TE- before a probate court clerk, and filing fees male. Beautiful dogs! 706-835- In The Smokies debted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal Repre- sentative. complete serial number. __Todd Smith_Deputy Sheriff RESA TIDWELL TURNER, DECEASED. To Whom it may concern: must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- 6159. N(Aug19,26) Cabin Rentals This 10th day of July, 2026. BY: Rodrick Lee Benedict Shawn Dyer,Sheriff Union County, Ga 378 Beasley Street This is to notify you to file an objection, if there is any, to the above-referenced petition, in this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later 7928 SE Swan Avenue RESIDENTIAL Ask for Cove Hobe Sound, FL 33455 N(Aug5,12,19,26) Blairsville, Ga. 3051 (706)439-6066- 31, 2026. BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. Kristin Stephens Stanley RENTALS Creek Cottage NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) grounds of any such objections. All objections Judge of the Probate Court IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY should be sworn to before a notary public or By: Charla Dyer 800-893-7274 IN RE: ESTATE OF Laurie Dawn Kellman, Estate No. 2026-64 STATE OF GEORGIA before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 2 & 3 BEDROOM MOBILE All creditors of the estate of Laurie Dawn Kell- IN RE: ESTATE OF PERCY JAMES FILLER you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- Blairsville, GA 30512 HOMES: In Union & Fannin man deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, DECEASED tact probate court personnel for the required Address Counties. Also a 2BD House for HELP WANTED are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all ESTATE NO. 2026-47 NOTICE amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later (706) 439-6006 Telephone Number rent. Units can be GRFA. Hud persons indebted to law, and all persons in- IN RE: The Petition to Probate Will in Solemn date. If no objections are filed, the petition may N(Aug19) debted to said estate are required to make Approved. Call (706) 633-6436 or LUCKY DOG HOSPITAL- immediate payment to the Personal Repre- Form in the above-referenced estate having be granted without a hearing. Kristin Stephens Stanley NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS been duly filed. 1-828-837-4861. N(Feb11,UFN) ITY NOW HIRING: Lucky’s, sentative. [For use if an heir is required to be served by Judge of the Probate Court IN RE: ESTATE OF Raymond C. Rumplik This 10th day of July, 2026. Sammies Subs, Teppanyaki BY: Rodrick Lee Benedict publication] By: Charla Dyer All creditors of the estate of Raymond C. Rum- THREE BEDROOM HOME Time, Blairsville Restaurant, 7928 SE Swan Avenue TO: James Allen Filler Deputy Clerk plik deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, [List here all heirs having unknown addresses 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 are hereby notified to render in their demands Young Harris, GA Bonus and Pizza Belly Hiring for Line Hobe Sound, FL 33455 to be served by publication] Blairsville, GA 30512 to the undersigned according to law, and all Loft, 3 Full Baths. 4 Miles Cooks, Bartenders, Managers, N(Aug5,12,19,26) This is to notify you to file objection, if there Address persons indebted to law, and all persons in- is any, to the petition to probate will in solemn 706) 439-6006 debted to said estate are required to make from Young Harris College, Servers, Apply in Person at res- IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY form, in this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before Telephone Number immediate payment to the Personal Repre- Quiet neighborhood. Available taurant of your choice. NT(Mar18,ufn) STATE OF GEORGIA September 8, 2026. N(Aug19) sentative. IN RE: ESTATE OF BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the This 24th day of July, 2026. September 1, 2026. Master ARNOLD B. EMERY petition must be in writing, setting forth the IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY BY: Russel C. Rumplik suite w gas fire place. Walk-in L I C E N S E D M A S S A G E DECEASED grounds of any such objections. All objections STATE OF GEORGIA 5492 Pine Crest Road ESTATE NO. 2025-157 should be sworn to before a notary public or IN RE: ESTATE OF Young Harris, GA 30582 shower, jet whirlpool tub, & THERAPIST. Full Time/Part PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION before a probate court clerk, and filing fees MADELYNE COPELAND COLWELL ATTORNEY: Lawrence S. Sorgen washer dryer. Full kitchen with Time. Top Pay. Blairsville Re- NOTICE must be tendered with your objections, unless DECEASED PO Box 67 To whom it may concern: you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- ESTATE NO. 2025-68 Hiawassee, GA 30546 modern appliances. Living room sort Spa. Apply in person. 366 Stephen H. Fales, Anthony J. Brown, William tact probate court personnel for the required NOTICE N(Jul29,Aug5,12,19) with gas fireplace. Large 2 car Paradise Road, Blairsville, GA. Clair Brown, Linnea Brown Ricker, and Other Interested Persons: amount of filing fees. If any objections are [For discharge from office and all liability] garage with workbench, and Any day, 10 - 6 p.m. 706-745- filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY NOTICE OF MERGER [List here all heirs who have not acknowl- date. If no objections are filed, the petition may Re: PETITION OF MARTA VICTORIA MEAD FOR Notice is given that (articles or a certificate storage. Deck with mountain 7483. N(Sept28,ufn) edged service] James Ruel Fales has petitioned to be appoint- be granted without a hearing. DISCHARGE AS EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF of merger) which will effect a merger by and view. Fenced back yard. Utilities Kristin Stephens Stanley MADELYNE COPELAND COLWELL, DECEASED. between Peach State Bancshares, Inc., a Geor- ed administrator(s) of the estate of Arnold B. To Whom it may concern: gia Corporation and United Community Banks, separate. 6 months minimum MEN ON THE MOVE IS Judge of the Probate Court Emery deceased, of said county. All interested By:Charla Dyer This is to notify you to file an objection, if there Inc., a Georgia Corporation, has been delivered lease. References and Credit NOW HIRING MOVERS persons are hereby notified to show cause why said petition should not be granted. All Deputy Clerk of the Probate Court is any, to the above-referenced petition, in to The Secretary of State for filing in accor- Check required. No Pets. $2500 / TOTERS. Must be a team 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 this Court by 10:00 a.m. on or before August dance with the Georgia Business Corporation objections to the petition must be in writing, Blairsville, GA 30512 31, 2026. Code. The name of the surviving corporation in per month, $2500 deposit. player, drug free, have a valid setting forth the grounds of any such objec- tions, and must be filed with the Court by 10:00 Address BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the the merger is United Community Banks, Inc., a Appointment only. Serious drivers license and able to lift (706) 439-6006 petition must be in writing, setting forth the corporation incorporated in the state of Geor- a.m. on or before September 14, 2026. Telephone Number grounds of any such objections. All objections gia . The registered office of such corporation inquiries. Text 843-298-4422. heavy furniture. Please call 706- BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) should be sworn to before a notary public or is located at 289 South Culver Street, Law- 379-6683. Located in Young grounds of any such objections. All objections before a probate court clerk, and filing fees renceville, GA, 30046 and its registered agent N(Aug19) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY must be tendered with your objections, unless at such address is C T Corporation System. Harris. NT(Dec24,ufn) should be sworn to before a notary public or STATE OF GEORGIA you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- N(Aug12,19) before a probate court clerk, and filing fees IN RE: ESTATE OF tact probate court personnel for the required COMMERCIAL WANT TO MAKE A FEW BUCKS WITH NO LONG must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- tact probate court personnel for the required CYNTHIA JILL WHEELER DECEASED amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later APPLICATION TO REGISTER A BUSINESS TO BE CONDUCTED UNDER A TRADE NAME, PART- RENTALS TERM COMMITMENT? amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later ESTATE NO. 2026-135 PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION NOTICE date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. Kristin Stephens Stanley NERSHIP, OR OTHERS STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF UNION Help harvest grapes this fall. date. If no objections are filed, the petition may To whom it may concern: Judge of the Probate Court The undersigned does hereby certify that Sari $12/hour and free lunch. Call be granted without a hearing. Dustin Wayne Rogers has petitioned to be By: Charla Dyer Smith conducting a business as Elowen Grace Blairsville FULLTIME EXPERIENCED Kristin Stephens Stanley appointed administrator(s) of the estate of Deputy Clerk Abernathy in the City of Blairsville, County of Steve: 706-897-0460. N(Aug12,19) Judge of the Probate Court Cynthia Jill Wheeler deceased, of said county. 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Union in the State of Georgia, under the name By: Charla Dyer (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of Blairsville, GA 30512 of Elowen Grace Abernathy and that the nature Picker’s Barn CARPENTER: Must have Deputy Clerk 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Blairsville, GA 30512 bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, and/or grant of certain powers contained in Address (706) 439-6006 of the business is writing, publishing, blog- ging, editing, literary and creative services, & Storage transportation O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons Telephone Number and related business and that the names and and must be on Address (706) 439-6006 are hereby notified to show cause why said N(Aug19) addresses of the persons, firms, or partnership time. Starting pay $19/hour, petition should not be granted. All objections owning and carrying on said trade or business Telephone Number to the petition must be in writing, setting forth IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY are: N/A, pen name for individual use. must be able to do finish work. from 50/month N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) $ Call 706-400-0316. NT(Aug12,ufn) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY the grounds of any such objections, and must be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- fore September 8, 2026. STATE OF GEORGIA IN RE: ESTATE OF N(Aug12,19) STATE OF GEORGIA BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the BLAIRSVILLE COMFORT 10x10 thru 20x30 IN RE: ESTATE OF petition must be in writing, setting forth the PART-TIME FRANKIE MAE CARNEY INN hiring full and part time DECEASED grounds of any such objections. All objections You can sell from your unit! - Front Desk, Housekeeping, ESTATE NO. 2026-98 PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees Breakfast and Laundry posi- (706) 745-0097 NOTICE must be tendered with your objections, unless 19/129 South of Square 1.25 miles! tions. Come in to 90 Fisher Street or call 706-745-6844. N(Aug19-Sept23) To whom it may concern: William Franklin Carney has petitioned to be appointed administrator(s) of the estate of Frankie Mae Carney deceased, of said county. you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- tact probate court personnel for the required amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later HELP WANTED Towns County Herald date. If no objections are filed, the petition may (The petitioner has also applied for waiver of be granted without a hearing. bond, waiver of reports, waiver of statements, Kristin Stephens Stanley and/or grant of certain powers contained in Judge of the Probate Court O.C.G.A. § 53-12-261.) All interested persons By: Charla Dyer are hereby notified to show cause why said Deputy Clerk petition should not be granted. All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections, and must be filed with the Court by 10:00 a.m. on or be- 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Blairsville, GA 30512 Address Office Assistance (706) 439-6006 fore September 14, 2026. BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the petition must be in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such objections. All objections Telephone Number N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) Ad Salesperson NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS should be sworn to before a notary public or before a probate court clerk, and filing fees must be tendered with your objections, unless you qualify to file as an indigent party. Con- IN RE: ESTATE OF Robert Marston Reynolds All creditors of the estate of Robert Marston Reynolds, deceased, late of Union County, News Reporter Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their tact probate court personnel for the required demands to the undersigned according to amount of filing fees. If any objections are Send resume to WE BUY & TRADE GUNS filed, a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If no objections are filed, the petition may be granted without a hearing. law, and all persons indebted to law, and all persons indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to the Personal northgeorgianews-ken@hotmail.com GUNSMITH ON SITE Representative. Kristin Stephens Stanley Judge of the Probate Court This 7th day of August, 2026. BY: Nancy Hamilton Reynolds newsjarrard@gmail.com By: Charla Dyer 15 Kiloram Way or stop by the 190 BLUE RIDGE STREET, Deputy Clerk Blairsville, GA 30512 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 Blairsville, GA 30512 ATTORNEY: Cary D. Cox North Georgia News office BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 PO Box 748 Address Blairsville, GA 30514 (706) 439-6006 at 266 Cleveland Street, (706) 745-GUNS (4867) N(Aug12,19,26,Sept2) Telephone Number N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Blairsville, GA 30512 IN RE: ESTATE OF Edwin Gravatt
August 19, 2026 THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS Page 9B NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS accepted. Amounts received in excess of the interested or affect party to appear in said STATE OF GEORGIA ers or Parties in Interest are not obligated to in the manner provided in the Note and Secu- IN RE: ESTATE OF Ronald G. Gratton winning bid will be refunded to the successful Court and to file objections to such name COUNTY OF UNION alter, repair, or improve the Properties in any rity Deed. The debt remaining in default, this All creditors of the estate of Ronald G. Gratton, purchaser. This property is being sold with ex- change. Objections must be filed with said NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER manner; and (iii) any purchaser shall accept sale will be made for the purpose of paying the deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are press reservation that the sale is subject to 1) Court within thirty days of the filing of said Pursuant to the Order of the Superior Court the properties in their “AS-IS, AND WITH ALL same and all expenses of this sale, as provided hereby notified to render in their demands to confirmation and audit of the status of the loan Petition. of Union, GA dated July 15, 2026 in the mat- FAULTS” condition, with all present and future in Security Deed and by law, including attorthe undersigned according to law, and all per- by the holder of the security deed, 2) confirma- This 27th day of July 2026. ter of PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC. vs. KATHY faults or defects, and without any representa- ney’s fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted tion that the sale is not prohibited under the Sara Elizabeth Nix ROSS; NIKITA ROSS; AND THE UNITED STATES tion or warranty of the Petitioners or Parties in fees having been given). to said estate are required to make immediate U.S. Bankruptcy Code, 3) procedures for rescis- Petitioner, pro se DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVEL- Interest. Said properties shall be conveyed to Your mortgage servicer, Statebridge Company, payment to the Personal Representative. sion of sale under O.C.G.A. Section 9-13-172.1, N(Aug5,12,19,26) OPMENT; Civil Action SUCV2026000055, which the purchaser via fee simple deed without any LLC, as servicer for LLACG Community Invest- This 14th day of August, 2026. whereby the Deed Under Power and other fore- inter alia, forecloses the right to redemption in warranties or representations as to title. ment Fund, can be contacted at 866-466-3360 BY: Caleb Lane Kelley closure documents may not be provided until NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS the Security Deed executed by NIKITA S ROSS A copy of this notice of sale has been given to or by writing to 6061 S. Willow Drive, Suite 300, 274 Kings Road final confirmation and audit of the status of the IN RE: ESTATE OF Rowan Metcalf AND KATHY E ROSS to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC the Petitioners and Parties in Interest as re- Greenwood Village, CO 80111, to discuss pos- Blairsville, GA 30512 loan as provided above. All creditors of the estate of Rowan Metcalf, REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS GRANTEE, quired by Georgia law. sible alternatives to avoid foreclosure. N(Aug19,26,Sept2,9) Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2, the name, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, are AS NOMINEE FOR HOMESTAR FINANCIAL CORP. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Part- Said property will be sold subject to any out- address and telephone number of the person hereby notified to render in their demands to in the original principal amount of $93,279.00 ners, PLLC, located at the business address standing ad valorem taxes (including taxes NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER or entity who shall have full authority to nego- the undersigned according to law, and all per- dated March 9, 2020, and recorded in Deed of 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), STATE OF GEORGIA tiate, amend, or modify all terms of the above- sons indebted to law, and all persons indebted Book 1186, Page 547, Union County records, 30004 is the entity that will conduct the public any matters which might be disclosed by an UNION COUNTY described mortgage is as follows: to said estate are required to make immediate said Security Deed being last transferred to sale, and may be further contacted at the con- accurate survey and inspection of the property, Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, 500 N. payment to the Personal Representative. PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC. in Deed Book tact information below. any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning tained in a Security Deed given by, Wesley Cook State College Blvd., Suites 1030, 1300 & 1400 This 31st day of July, 2026. 1306, Page 10, Union County records, the un- THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLEC- ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and matand Sara Cook, to Mortgage Electronic Regis- Orange, CA 92868 , Telephone No.: 800-561- BY: Barbara Rosenstock dersigned as authorized by said Court Order, TOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY IN- ters of record superior to the Security Deed tration Systems, Inc., as grantee, as nomi- 4567 325 Owen Glen Drive will sell at public outcry to the highest bid- FORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT first set out above. nee for Cardinal Financial Company, Limited The foregoing notwithstanding, nothing in Blairsville, GA 30512 der for cash, before the Courthouse door in PURPOSE. To the best knowledge and belief of the un- Partnership, dated 3/28/2022, and recorded O.C.G.A. § 44-14-162.2 shall be construed to ATTORNEY: Rebecca Kendrick said County, or at such other place as lawfully Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Part- dersigned, the parties in possession of the on 3/30/2022, in Book 1306, Page 376, Union require Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC to PO Box 1286 designated, within the legal hours of sale, on ners, PLLC property are Estate of Raymond L. Fiore Sr. aka County, Georgia Records, as last assigned to as negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the Blairsville, GA 30514 9/1/2026, the property in said Security Deed 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Raymond L. Fiore or tenant(s); and said proplast assignment to Carrington Mortgage Ser- Security Deed described herein. N(Aug5,12,19,26) and described as follows: Alpharetta, GA 30004 erty is more commonly known as 161 Duncan vices, LLC by assignment recorded 4/16/2026 Please be advised that the trustee may require ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING Phone: 470-321-7112 Mill Road, Blairsville, GA 30512. as Instrument No. D2026-001763 in book 1449, entity or trust bidders at this trustee’s sale to NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS AND BEING IN THE 10TH DISTRICT, 1ST SEC- Firm File No. 25-381130 The sale will be conducted subject (1) to con- Page 760, conveying the after described prop- provide information, documentation and/or IN RE: ESTATE OF Lowell Wayne Brinton TION, LAND LOT 27 OF UNION COUNTY, GEOR- N(Aug5,12,19,26) firmation that the sale is not prohibited under erty securing the payment of a Note in the certification of the vesting instructions and All creditors of the estate of Lowell Wayne GIA, CONTAINING 0.93 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final conamount of $379,335.00 with interest thereon as the data required to be reported pursuant to Brinton, deceased, late of Union County, AND BEING LOT 4 AS SHOWN ON A SURVEY BY NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE UNDER POWER firmation and audit of the status of the loan set forth therein. FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of Georgia, are hereby notified to render in their ROCHESTER & ASSOCIATES, INC. DATED JULY UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA with the holder of the security deed. NOW, THEREFORE, notice is hereby given that residential real property to covered transferees demands to the undersigned according to 24, 1996 AND RECORDED IN UNION COUNTY THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY LLACG Community Investment Fund as Attorthe entire indebtedness has been declared due on or after March 1, 2026. The required infor- law, and all persons indebted to law, and all RECORDS IN PLAT BOOK 40, PAGE 63. SAID INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR ney in Fact for Annette M Fiore aka Annette and payable as provided in said Security Deed mation must be provided to the trustee before persons indebted to said estate are required PLAT IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE THAT PURPOSE. Fiore and Raymond L. Fiore Sr. aka Raymond by the Holder, and by virtue of the power of sale a deed under power will be issued for covered to make immediate payment to the Personal HERETO, FOR A FULL AND COMPLETE DESCRIP- Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale con- L. Fiore and authority vested in it, will on 10/6/2026 sell transfers. The Buyer may be required to pay Representative. TION OF THE ABOVE PROPERTY. tained in a Security Deed given by Raymond L. McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash: charges associated with the gathering and This 31st day of July, 2026. THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO AND BENEFITS Fiore and Annette M. Fiore to Urban Financial 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 65 Courthouse Street, Blairsville, Georgia, the reporting of information to FinCEN. Additional BY: Judy Ann Brinton FROM MATTERS AS SHOWN IN THE ABOVE REF- Group dated February 16, 2010 and recorded Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 following described property situated in Union information regarding these regulations and 160 Largen Road ERENCE PLAT OF SURVEY. on February 23, 2010 in Deed Book 826, Page 404-474-7149 County, Georgia, to wit: the required transferee information and certi- Blairsville, GA 30512 THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO AND BENEFITS 677, Union County, Georgia Records, and later MTG File No.: 26-002599-01 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LY- fications can be found at: ATTORNEY: Richard W. Sarrell II FROM A PRIVATE ROAD MAINTENANCE AGREE- assigned to LLACG Community Investment N(Aug5,12,19,26) ING AND BEING LAND LOT 266, 9TH DISTRICT, https://www.federalregister.gov/docu- PO Box 517 MENT AND EASEMENT AGREEMENT AS RE- Fund by Assignment of Security Deed recorded 1ST SECTION, UNION COUNTY, GEORGIA, CON- ments/2024/08/29/2024-19198/anti-money- Blairsville, GA 30514 CORDED IN DEED BOOK 844, PAGE 626, UNION on April 10, 2026 in Deed Book 1449, Page 449, IN THE PROBATE COURT OF UNION COUNTY TAINING A TOTAL OF 1.700 ACRES AND BE- laundering-regulations-for-residential-real- N(Aug5,12,19,26) COUNTY RECORDS. Union County, Georgia Records, conveying the STATE OF GEORGIA ING SHOWN AS TRACT 1 CONTAINING (1.571 estate-transfers and https://www.fincen.gov/ THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS TO after-described property to secure a Note in IN RE: ESTATE OF ACRES), AND TRACT II, CONTAINING (.129 rre-faqs#D_5 NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN EMC AS RECORDED IN the original principal amount of Five Hundred LILLIE FRANCES PUETT ACRE), AS PER PLAT OF SURVEY BY B. KEITH Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC as Attorney IN RE: ESTATE OF Michael Richard Hill DEED BOOK 279, PAGE 42 AND DEED BOOK 279, Three Thousand Four Hundred and 00/100 Dol- DECEASED ROCHESTER AND ASSOCIATES, INC. RS#1534 in Fact for Wesley Cook and Sara Cook All creditors of the estate of Michael Richard PAGE 44, UNION COUNTY RECORDS. lars ($503,400.00), with interest thereon as set ESTATE NO. 2026-139 DATED NOVEMBER 17, 1994 AND RECORDED For Foreclosure sale information please con- Hill, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, THE PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO A RIGHT-OF- forth therein, there will be sold at public outcry PETITION FOR LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION IN PLAT BOOK 32, PAGE 167, UNION COUNTY, tact Vylla Solutions, LLC, P.O. Box 3309, Ana- are hereby notified to render in their demands WAY TO UNION COUNTY AS RECORDED IN DEED to the highest bidder for cash before the court- NOTICE GEORGIA RECORDS. heim, California 92803, Phone: (888) 313-1969 to the undersigned according to law, and all BOOK 126, PAGE 67, UNION COUNTY RECORDS. house door of Union County, Georgia, within the To whom it may concern: Tax Parcel ID: 070D-026 TS # 26-41591 persons indebted to law, and all persons in- Said property being known as: 71 GOLDEN legal hours of sale on September 1, 2026 the Alicia Ann Miller has petitioned to be appointed Being real property commonly known as 305 THIS COMMUNICATION IS FROM A DEBT COL- debted to said estate are required to make RIDGE RD, BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 following described property: administrator(s) of the estate of Lillie Frances SAW MILL ROAD BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 LECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY immediate payment to the Personal Represen- To the best of the undersigned’s knowledge, All that tract or parcel of land lying and being Puett deceased, of said county. (The petitioner The debt remaining in default, this sale will be INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR tative. the party or parties in possession of said prop- in Land Lots 48 & 61, 10th District, 1st Section, has also applied for waiver of bond, waiver of made for the purpose of paying the debt and all THAT PURPOSE. This 31st day of July, 2026. erty is/are NIKITA S ROSS AND KATHY E ROSS Union County, Georgia, containing 1.0 acre, reports, waiver of statements, and/or grant of expenses of this sale including attorney’s fees N(Aug12-Sept30) BY: Linda M. Hill or tenant(s). and being shown as Lot Twenty (20) of Duncan certain powers contained in O.C.G.A. § 53-12- (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees hav- 804 Highland Crossing Said property will be sold subject to the fol- Mill, on a plat of survey by Lane S. Bishop & 261.) All interested persons are hereby notified ing been given). NOTICE Blairsville, GA 30512 lowing: (1) any outstanding ad valorem taxes Associates, RS #1575, dated 5/20/92, recorded to show cause why said petition should not be Said sale will be made subject to the follow- Notice is given that Q-Bicals Self-Storage will ATTORNEY: Eddy A. Corn (including taxes which are a lien, whether or in Plat Book 27 pages 140-142 Union County granted. All objections to the petition must be ing items which may affect the title to said sell the content of Storage Unit #31, said con- 253 Big Sky Drive not yet due and payable); (2) the right of re- records, which description on said plat is in- in writing, setting forth the grounds of any such property: All restrictive covenants, easements tents belonging to Glenn Trotti. Said sale by Hiawassee, GA 30546 demption of any taxing authority; (3) any mat- corporated herein by reference and made a objections, and must be filed with the Court by and rights-of-way appearing of record, if any; auction will take place on September 8th at N(Aug5,12,19,26) ters which might be disclosed by an accurate part hereof. The property is conveyed subject 10:00 a.m. on or before September 8, 2026. all zoning ordinances; matters which would 11AM outside the Q-bicals Self-Storage facil- survey and inspection of the property; and (4) to the restrictions recorded in Deed Book 197 BE NOTIFIED FURTHER: All objections to the be disclosed by an accurate survey or by an ity located at 26 Loudermilk RD., Blairsville, GA NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning pages 697-702, amended in Deed Book 217 petition must be in writing, setting forth the inspection of the property; all outstanding or 30512. Content includes ‘Miscellaneous home IN RE: ESTATE OF Marilyn E. Thomasson ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and any page 403 and in Deed Book 255 page 88 Union grounds of any such objections. All objections unpaid bills and assessments for street im- items and furnishings.’ Tenant has until the All creditors of the estate of Marilyn E. Thomas- superior security deeds or matters of record. County records. should be sworn to before a notary public or provements, curbing, garbage, water, sewage auction to settle the lien. Q-Bicals Self-Storage son, deceased, late of Union County, Georgia, Said sale will be conducted subject to the fol- The property is conveyed subject to the power- before a probate court clerk, and filing fees and public utilities which may be liens upon reserves the right to refuse any bids. are hereby notified to render in their demands lowing: (1) confirmation that the sale is not line easement granted to Blue Ridge Mountain must be tendered with your objections, unless said property; and any outstanding taxes, as- N(Aug19,26) to the undersigned according to law, and all prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; EMC. you qualify to file as an indigent party. Consessments and other liens superior to the se- persons indebted to law, and all persons in- and (2) final confirmation and audit of the sta- The property is subject to the reservation of tact probate court personnel for the required curity deed being foreclosed hereby. To the best IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF UNION COUNTY debted to said estate are required to make tus of the loan with the holder of the Order to a previous title holder of a road right of way amount of filing fees. If any objections are filed, knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the STATE OF GEORGIA immediate payment to the Personal Represen- foreclose. across the east line of the above described lot. a hearing will be scheduled at a later date. If above-described property is in the possession IN RE: William Tate Asherbranner tative. No representation, warranty or guaranty, ex- Said easement shall begin at the centerline of no objections are filed, the petition may be of the borrower and/or other persons with the and , This 31st day of July, 2026. press or implied, oral or written, shall be given Coosa Creek at the Northeast corner of said lot granted without a hearing. consent and acquiescence of the borrower. Minor Child(ren) BY:Cindy T. Shearin regarding (a) the condition or state of repair of and run thence S 5 45 17 W 185.33 feet to a Kristin Stephens Stanley Except to the extent that the Holder may bind Civil Action File No. 26-CV-257-RG 10 Stratford any improvements on the properties, (b) the point; thence in a Northwest direction of the Judge of the Probate Court and obligate Mortgagors to warrant title to the NOTICE OF PETITION TO CHANGE NAME Los Angeles, CA 90266 use, generation, storage, release, disposal or centerline on Coosa Creek, said point being By: Charla Dyer Property under the terms of the Security Deed, Georgia, Union County Pamela S. Townsend presence of any pollutants, contaminants or West 30 feet from the Northeast corner of said Deputy Clerk conveyance of the Property shall be made Notice is hereby given that Sara Elizabeth Nix, 9839 Pineola Drive other dangerous substances upon, beneath lot; thence East 30 feet to the Northeast corner 65 Courthouse St., Suite 8 without any representations or warranties the undersigned, filed this Petition to the Su- Orlando, FL 32836 or near the properties, (c) compliance of the of said lot, to the point of beginning. Blairsville, GA 30512 whatsoever, express or implied. All sales are perior Court of Union County, Georgia on the ATTORNEY: William D. Rhoads properties with any applicable law, regulation Tax ID #: 072 105 Address “as is”, “where is’. day of , 20, praying for a change in the name of PO Box 1098 or ordinance, including, but not limited to, any The debt secured by said Security Deed has (706) 439-6006 The entire purchase price is due and payable minor child(ren) from William Tate Asherbanner Gainesville, GA 30503 land use, zoning or environmental regulation or been and is hereby declared due because of, Telephone Number at the conclusion of the auction in the form of to William Tate Nix, and from to . N(Aug5,12,19,26) building code, or (d) any other matter regarding among other possible events of default, failure N(Aug5,12,19,26) certified funds. Insufficient funds will not be Notice is hereby given pursuant to law to any the condition of the properties; (ii) the Petition- to pay the indebtedness as and when due and DYER’S DEPENDABLE SCOTT ARMSTRONG COMPLETE PLUMBING & FRESH CUT: Lawncare, Land- UGLY CONCRETE? COVER TONY GUY ROOFING: 706- HOME IMPROVEMENTS: HOME REPAIR: Fully ELECTRICAL: Residential, scaping, Trimming, Mulching IT! Decorative concrete coat- 487-0723 Over 35 years experi- Deck repair or replacement and Insured, Home Repairs and Commercial, Free Estimates, & Leaf Blowing. Call 706-897- ings: epoxy’s, acrylics, over- ence, free estimates. Shingles, staining. Interior and exterior Renovations. Any Homeowner Locally Owned, Operated, 35 5369. N(Jun18,ufn) lays, protective sealers, con- metal, Àat roofs, screw replacepainting. Roof to foundation Needs. Paypal/Zelle Accepted. Years Experience. All Work crete levelers. Lic & Ins. for 43 ment. Also pressure wash your repairs, plus interior remodel- Accepted. Text (Preferred) or Guaranteed. Repairs, Remodel- THOMAS PAINTING INTE- years. uglyconcretecoverit.com metal roof, clean gutters, sell ing. Grading and retaining walls. Call 706-897-8614. N(May29,ufn) ing, New Construction. Stephen RIOR/EXTERIOR. Pressure and facebook. 706-896-4560. gutters, screen and put them on. Lawn Care, Mowing, Weedeat- Hunt, 706-897-8639 or 828-342- washing. Houses, decks, drive- NT(Sept20,ufn) 5 year guarantee on all labor. ing, Mulching, Aeration, lime FRIENDS MOVING COM- 5531. N(Aug31,ufn) ways, fences, boat docks, much N(Jun24,ufn) and fertilization, overseeding. PANY: Local and Long Dis- more. Family owned and oper- ECOSOUTH SOLUTIONS: (706) 745-1201. N(Apr22-ufn) tance. Credit cards accepted GUY’S JUNK REMOVAL: ated. 706-994-7681. NT(July29-Aug19) Commercial Wastewater Sys- M O N T G O M E RY C O N - 706-896-7720. 1-888-794-0526 Big or small, we take it all! We tems. Residential Septic Instal- CRETE - Serving Blairsville BRIAN WIGHT CON- MCA 210640. NT(Jul8,ufn) do all the loading, hauling & A L L C L E A R W I N D O W lation. Erosion Control. Creek & since 1997. Concrete, slabs, STRUCTION: Specializing in cleanup. You name it, we haul it! WASHERS - Commercial & Shoreline Restoration. Licensed driveways, patios. Call 706-781- Leaking Basements, Founda- IFIXIT PC REPAIR ON THE We do Estate Sales, Attics, Base- Residential - Free Estimates & Insured. Free Consultations. 1806. N(Jul1-Aug26 tion Structural Failures, Septic GO: Call us at (762) 525-0288 ments, Garages, Foreclosures, - Reasonable Rates (828) 371- Serving North Georgia. Call System New and Repairs. Lo- for Services, Price estimates, and etc. Call Robert Guy 706-835- 3936 or (706) 781-5585. NT(Jul24,ufn) today to discuss your project! cally Building for 45 Years. any questions. We are the only 5371. NT(Jun19,ufn) (706)400-8145 N(Jul29,ufn) Call 706-897-5600. 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Basements, Septic Systems, Backhoe, BobCat, Dozier & Dump Truck Staining, Roof & Gutter Care Insured Pressure Washing Electric David 706.897.5320 =I<<Û<klaeYl]kÛÝ@fkmj]ÛÝÛI]^]j]f[]k & Soft Wash Available Serving Georgia since 1997 706-970-7641 68absolutecolor@gmail.com CALL 706-897-2312 Routine Maintenance Plans Residential | Commercial Serving locals over 25 years Georgia Mountain Industrial and Controls Emergency Repairs HERMOSO Large Vehicles SERVICE & Road Services Painting Licensed & Insured LANDSCAPE Recoveries Diana Howell Call Collin 478-396-1098 JOSE HERMOSO 706-781-1652 collierelectric@aol.com Find me on 24/7 Safe & Fast Towing in Blairsville Responsive Professional Punctual Local and Long 706.400.9065 Coltin Hemphill 706.897.4195 20 years experience Distance Movers josehermoso73@gmail.com Office: 706-745-2003 View Disaster “North GA’s #1 Movers” Cell: 706-487-9339 Clearing Relief FREE ESTIMATES Removal Trimming 706-379-6683 LAWNCARE | TREE WORK | CARPENTRY CONCRETE | PAINT | DECKS | REMODELING PRESSURE WASHING | & MUCH MORE 515 Blue Ridge Street Blairsville, GA 30512 Property Under Cleanup Free Estimates Brushing Gravel Driveways Knight’s Tree Service ALDERWOOD TREE SERVICE Erosion Control Bucket Truck 828.347.1909 Water Drainage 20+ Yrs. experience Topping, Removal, INSURED *No Asphalt Jobs* Chipping LICENSED Free Estimates • Insured Otis Knight, Owner Cell 706-781-7649 BRENT’S HANDYMAN SERVICES New Homes Õ Additions Garages Õ Decks Jonathan Payne Wood Finish & Repair 706-897-2398 ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Tongue & Groove ÕÕÕÕÕÕ Flooring and Walls Fully Insured Tile Repair and Showers Drywall Repair and Flooring • Dangerous Tree Removal Acoustic Ceilings • Stump Grinding • Mulching CALL 706-400-0316 • Large and Small Acreage Clearing
Page 10B THE NORTH GEORGIA NEWS August 19, 2026 Great Southeastern Pollinator Census Count begins August 21st garden count sites are the Mar- Count sheets will be avail- other interesting pollinators; ket Garden at Union County able at each count site. Spon- it only takes 15 minutes! You Farmers Market; Young Har- sors for this year’s Pollinator can count on both days and ris Library, 698 Miller Street, Census include Towns Union you can count in your own Young Harris; Enotah Gar- Master Gardener Association, back yard. Count sheets are den Club Butterfly Garden at the Georgia Native Plant Soci- available for printing on web- Cupid Falls in Young Harris; ety, North Georgia Mountains site GSePC.org or at UGA Lloyd’s Landing, US Hwy 76, Chapter, the Enotah Garden Towns and Union Extension Every year on the third East, Hiawassee. These gar- Club, and the Hiawassee Gar- offices. weekend in August, local gar- dens will be staffed on Satur- den Club. Grace Howard, deners and other interested day, August 22, from noon-1 Pick a garden, day, and Master Gardener community members prepare PM to assist with the counting. time and help count bees and Extension Volunteer to count pollinators who live in our gardens and back yards. This is important research 4. WEATHERBY ORION 5. S&W .44 done in support of Georgia’s 1. RUGER 45 ACP 2. HENRY BIG BOY 30/30 3. GLOCK G19 9MM SHOTGUN 12/30/3 MOUNTAIN GUN main economic driver, agri- culture, as this annual count of pollinators and their habitats is critical to the success of all crops. The pollinator census 6. WINCHESTER SXP 7. RUGER WRANGLER 9. KIMBER MIDNIGHT 10. TITAN SHOTGUN count originated here in the 8. RUGER .308 20” TURKEY SHOTGUN COMBO CUSTOM SEMI-AUTOMATIC local area and was created by UGA staffer Becky Grif- fin, State Coordinator of Pol- linator Health. What began in Georgia has now spread to five 14. BROWNING A5 15. REMINGTON 700 surrounding states which also 11. S&S .380 BODYGUARD 12. TIKKA T3X 13. KEL TEC 22 LR HUNTER SHOTGUN RIFLE participate in the annual count. This is the eighth year for the census in Georgia. This year, the Towns Union Master Gardener As- 17. RUGER 10/22 20. KIMBER MICRO 9 16. SIG SAUER 365 FUSE 18. S&W 442 38 SPL. 19. ROSSI 360B 20” RIFLE sociation has planned spe- 22 LR CINDER cific educational events at the Union County Library, located at 303 Hunt Street, Blairsville. On Tuesday, August 18th at 10 AM; a class, “How to Do 21. CHARTER ARMS 22. RUGER AMERICAN 24. HENRY 22 LR 23. TAURUS 9MM 25. S&W M&P 22WMR the Pollinator Count, “will be .357 TARGET REVOLVER 22WMR STANDARD RIFLE held; on Thursday August 20th at 4 PM, there will be a short presentation on bees during the Kidsventure Afterschool program, and on Friday, Au- 26. SAVAGE ARMS 27. HENRY BIG BOY 28. BROWNING HUNTER 29. S&W 10MM 30. RUGER AMERICAN gust 21st from 8:30-11:30 AM 410 SHOTGUN REVOLVER .308 RIFLE FPC RIFLE 45ACP the actual count will take place at the library pollinator garden. Hiawassee Library will be counting on Friday, August 21 at 10-11 AM. The other public Drawing when Local Al-Anon all tickets are weekly meetings sold Are you troubled by a family member or friends’ 2026 drinking? Al-anon Family Groups meet in several locations in Towns and Union Counties: Tuesday: 12 noon, Sharp $30 per Ticket gives you THIRTY Memorial Methodist Church, 1114 Main Street, Young Har- Appalachian Shrine pp ris, GA Chances to Win!! We d n e s d a y : 7 P M , Only 1,200 Tickets will be sold!! Positive Pathways, 243 Hunt Martin Street, Blairsville, GA Tickets are available from any Shriner or at Alexander’s Store. Thursday: 12 noon, St. This is not a hospital charity fund raiser. Donations are not tax-deductible. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 777 Ledford Road, Blairsville, GA *Photos of guns picture may differ from the actual product. :LQQHUPXVWEHHOLJLEOHDFFRUGLQJWRDOOVWDWHDQGIHGHUDOODZVWRSRVVHVVDÀUHDUP For more details on Al- anon call 888-4AL-ANON 4482 Town Creek School Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-6450 • Mon-Sat 10am-7pm • Closed Sunday Club Blairsville, Georgia l (888-425-2666) or visit www. al-anon.alateen.org. NT(Aug19,Z2)CA Guns are to be picked up from our generous sponsor within 30 days of draw date #ALL !LLISON OR +ENNETH FOR MORE INFOMATION ON 706-745-6343 OUR LOW PRICED HIGH QUALITY PRINTING #LEVELAND 3TREET s "LAIRSVILLE 'EORGIA s "ROCHURES Copy Paper s 2ACK #ARDS s "USINESS #ARDS Ream s "USINESS &ORMS s 3TATIONERY $4.99 s ,ABELS s -AGNETICS Case s 3IGNS $49.99 Tri-fold Brochures FREE s "ANNERS s 0RESENTATION &OLDERS s 2AFmE 4ICKETS s .#2 FORMS Local s &LYERS s 2EAL %STATE "OOKLETS Business s #OLOR #OPIES Delivery Rack Cards