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Trump campaign requests another recount in Georgia

By
Staff Report
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Election workers in Georgia's 159 counties conducted a complete audit and manual recount of the state's presidential race last week. Now, the Trump campaign wants another recount. This time it will be done by machine. (Hadley Cottingham/Now Habersham)

Election workers in Georgia will soon be recounting votes in the state’s presidential election. President Donald Trump’s campaign Saturday requested a recount, a day after state officials certified results showing Democrat Joe Biden won.

Georgia’s results show Biden beat Trump by 12,670 votes out of nearly 5 million cast. Biden claimed 49.51% of the vote to Trump’s 49.25% – Libertarian Jo Jorgensen received 1.24% of the vote in Georgia’s presidential race.

State law allows a candidate to request a recount if the margin between them and the winner is less than half a percentage point.

The Trump campaign sent a hand-delivered letter to the secretary of state’s office requesting the recount in an election fraught with unfounded accusations of fraud by Trump and his supporters.

Lawsuits dismissed for lack of evidence

Judges have thrown out at least two election lawsuits in Georgia and dozens more nationwide over lack of evidence.

Last week, a Trump-appointed federal judge in Georgia rejected a legal challenge by conservative lawyer L. Lin Wood Jr. who sought to stop state election officials from certifying the votes. Wood claimed systemic issues with the election process had marred the results.

In a hearing on Thursday, Judge Steven Grimberg pushed back against claims of voter fraud.

“I understand that is your argument, sir. What is your evidence?” Judge Grimberg asked after listening to Wood’s lawyer Ray Smith III, WSB-TV reports.

In dismissing the lawsuit, Grimberg wrote, “To halt the certification at literally the 11th hour would breed confusion and disenfranchisement that I find have no basis in fact and law.”

Earlier, a judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Trump campaign and the Georgia Republican Party alleging that Chatham County elections officials improperly counted absentee ballots received after the state’s deadline.

In order to win the electoral vote, Trump would have to successfully overturn the results in at least three key swing states that flipped to Biden in this election. In a move many consider a legal death blow to that effort, a federal judge in Pennsylvania on Saturday dismissed a lawsuit seeking to block vote certification in that state.

U.S. District Court Judge Matthew Brann, a longtime and well-known Pennsylvania Republican, issued a scathing rebuke in his order writing that Trump had asked the court to disenfranchise almost 7 million voters.

“One might expect that when seeking such a startling outcome, a plaintiff would come formidably armed with compelling legal arguments and factual proof of rampant corruption, such that this Court would have no option but to regrettably grant the proposed injunctive relief despite the impact it would have on such a large group of citizens. That has not happened,” Brann wrote. “Instead, this Court has been presented with strained legal arguments without merit and speculative accusations, unpled in the operative complaint and unsupported by evidence.”

Judge Brann added, “It is not in the power of this Court to violate the Constitution.”

Brann’s ruling paves the way for Pennsylvania officials to certify election results that currently show Biden winning the state by more than 80,000 votes.

 

TFS Operation Christmas Child project fills 194 boxes

By
Now Habersham
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Shown, from left, are Beth Huebner and Linda Harris. (E. Lane Gresham/Tallulah Falls School)

The Tallulah Falls School family once again stepped up to support Operation Christmas Child, sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse.

Through this initiative, TFS has the opportunity to reach out to needy children around the world.

This year the school filled 194 boxes with both middle and high school students, faculty and staff contributing.

Teachers Cyndy Campbell and Beth Huebner coordinated this year, with teacher Linda Harris helping to underwrite the processing cost of $9 per box for several students.

 

Old friends

By
Margie Williamson
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Nuthatches are usually seen on the side of trees, facing downward. They can also walk on the underside of a branch. (Photo by Margie Williamson)

Our bird feeder was down for a couple of weeks and then it took several days for the birds to find it again. When they finally showed up, it felt like “old friends” had returned.

It’s interesting to me that I had that reaction. I’ve griped about these same birds as being common and boring. I’ve shared my frustrations that they weren’t more exciting–that they were just backyard birds that can be seen anywhere. But after an absence, I was so glad to see them. My “old friends” had returned.

Nuthatches are song birds with strong personalities. They’ve been described as “comic.” (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

I especially enjoyed watching the White-breasted Nuthatches for awhile, and I’ve focused on them in the photos I’ve included. They have such a cute personality that they’ve been described as “comic.”

Thinking about that got me started thinking about old friends in my life. I’ve been so blessed by the women who shared themselves with me over the years.

I thought about my college roommate Marty and college friends Brenda and Beverly. The four of us got together almost two years ago. We knew at the time that we probably wouldn’t see Beverly again because she had so many health issues. She passed away within a couple of months. But getting back together was like going back in time. We experienced friendship that had not changed in all the subsequent years. They’re dear “old friends.”

Nuthatches aren’t really friendly with other birds. The Chickadees will wait patiently for them to get done at the feeder before they get a chance to eat. (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

I thought about my friend Karen. We were golfing buddies, we both were curriculum writers, and we both taught conferences all over the southeast, often together. I saw Karen about two years ago and it was like nothing had changed. We laughed. We cried. We shared what had gone on in the twenty years since we’d seen each other. She’s still my dear “old friend.”

I thought about my friends Miki, Kay, and Lou Ann who have been prayer partners and travel partners for years now. They’ve brought joy and fun and support and love into my life in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Stupid COVID keeps us from getting together right now, but it doesn’t change the support we give to each other. They are dear “old friends.”

I thought about my friends Ann and June who were in one of my Bible studies at our last church. They’ve been such encouragers for me. When we left the church after Bob retired, I felt the loss deeply of them and others who had loved me so well and encouraged me so completely. They are special “old friends” who I hear from occasionally or I contact occasionally because I miss them in my life. I still thrive on their encouragement.

Old friends are a gift from God. I’m so grateful these “old bird friends” showed up to remind me of just how blessed I am.

Habersham headed to Rome after Shiloh win Saturday

By
Brian Carter
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Raider QB Joshua Pickett carries it in for a TD during a rare Saturday afternoon regular season-ending game against Shiloh on Nov. 21, 2020. (photo by Daniel Purcell)

The Habersham Central Raiders locked up 3 seed in Region 8-6A Saturday at Shiloh, 45-37. Next up for Habersham, a first-round playoff road trip to take on #2 Rome.

Here’s a look at some of the other first-round playoff action on tap next week for Northeast Georgia area teams. For a complete lineup, visit BLITZ Sports.

#1 Rabun County vs. #4 Haralson County

This should be an easy first round playoff home opener for the Wildcats, who narrowly missed another undefeated regular season.

#1 Commerce vs. #4 Manchester

The Tigers are region champions, and have what should be a fairly easy draw with Manchester.

#1 Jefferson vs. #4 Mt. Zion

The Dragons play host to Mt. Zion, which should be one of their easiest games of the season. The more intriguing matchup would be in the second round against likely opponent Hapeville Charter, the 2017 Class 2A Champions.

#3 Dawson County @ #2 Adairsville

Dawson County is set to play Adairsville in the opening round, which is actually a better draw than if the Tigers had been region runner-up and would have run into GAC in a second round matchup.

#3 Union County @ #2 Heard County

The Panthers have a shot at upsetting Heard County if they can find more consistency on offense.

#4 Banks County @ #1 Callaway

This will be an unfortunate draw for the Leopards, who finished the regular season 1-9. Still, they have to be excited about the opportunity.

#4 White County @ #1 Rockmart

The Warriors were the only team to beat #9-ranked and Region Champs Cherokee Bluff. Still, it’s a #4 seed for White County and a trip to Rockmart to open the playoffs.

For more, visit GHSA and BLITZ SPORTS

Single-day record for new COVID infections reached in Georgia

By
Andy Miller
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If you count positive COVID-19 results from antigen tests along with those from PCR screenings — something that most states do — Saturday’s increase of COVID infections in Georgia topped 6,300 – a new single-day record.

Georgia currently does not count results of the two kinds of tests together. But the total has experts alarmed.

“It’s a big day,’’ said Amber Schmidtke, a microbiologist who tracks Georgia COVID cases in the Daily Digest. Georgia is approaching its previous peak in its 7-day infection rate, she added.

The previous record for daily infections reported was Nov. 3, when 6,003 cases were reported, Schmidtke said. Georgia also recorded 126 new COVID hospitalizations in the Saturday totals, along with 38 confirmed deaths.

“When cases surge, hospitalizations follow and deaths follow,’’ Schmidtke noted.

The state Department of Public Health said on Twitter that Saturday’s antigen test results include what the agency called “batch reporting from two major providers from the past 10-14 days and an overall increase in positive test results.”

The surge of new infections is rocking the nation. The number of U.S. coronavirus cases surpassed 12 million Saturday — an increase of more than 1 million cases in less than a week. More than 255,000 Americans have died.

Almost every state has reported big increases in cases, and nationwide numbers have been climbing much faster than ever before — with the country reporting a staggering 2.8 million infections since the beginning of the month, CNN reported.

On Friday, more than 195,500 new infections were reported — the country’s highest for a single day. The United States on Friday also recorded its highest number of COVID-19 patients in hospitals on a given day, at more than 82,100.

Anxious about the holidays

In Georgia, the total of new positive readings from rapid antigen tests reported Saturday, 3,270, exceeded those from PCR tests, 3,053.

The state does not count the two together because Public Health officials do not consider positive results from rapid tests as ‘‘confirmed.’’ The state’s COVID-19 report still lists people who test positive for the coronavirus through PCR tests separately from people who test positive through rapid antigen tests.

Other Southeastern states add rapid test positives into their cumulative totals. And the CDC “is now including antigen cases in Georgia’s total,’’ Schmidtke said.

Rapid tests are not considered as accurate as PCR tests. But because they are faster and less expensive than PCR tests, antigen tests may be more practical to use for large numbers of people, experts say. They’re frequently used at universities, long-term care facilities and medical offices.

There’s an increased chance of a false negative result with an antigen test, meaning it’s possible to be infected with the virus even though the test indicates you are not. But a positive result on an antigen test — indicating that you are infected — is considered accurate when instructions are carefully followed,

Experts fear COVID cases may continue to surge, with the Thanksgiving holidays less than a week away and colder weather coming.

“There is no question in my mind that we are seeing the same surge that is occurring in the rest of the country, even though we are also seeing increased testing, likely in preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday,’’ said Dr. Harry Heiman, a public health expert at Georgia State University.

Saturday’s numbers reflect the problem of Georgia not counting the positive antigen tests with the overall infection count, he added.

“So people continue to hold the false belief that it’s not so bad in Georgia, despite the fact that numbers are surging and 16 hospitals, including major medical centers in Atlanta and across the state, are on diversion–meaning no medical beds or critical care beds available for new patients,’’ Heiman said.

Kemp

“We are in a full crisis, yet our state leadership is once again failing to act,’’ he said. “Now is the time for a statewide mask mandate, now is the time to close bars and indoor dining, and now is past time to stop allowing indoor mask-less political rallies.’’

Gov. Brian Kemp has encouraged the wearing of masks in Georgia but has not required it.

USA Today reported this week that more than 30 states – plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico – now require everyone within their borders to wear face coverings in public, according to a list maintained by AARP.

RELATED

Celebrate Thanksgiving safely

Freaky

By
Justin Hall
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I have to admit I enjoyed a lot of Freaky. It’s a horror comedy with more than enough gore to satisfy horror fans and a lot of sly, effective humor. It finds a nice balance which is difficult to pull off.

It stars Vince Vaughn as a serial killer who stumbles on to an ancient dagger. Kathyrn Newton stars as Millie, an unpopular high school student with only two friends. She is relentlessly bullied by other kids and even her shop teacher (Alan Ruck) has a particular disdain for her.

One night at a football game while dressed as the school’s mascot, a beaver, Vaughn’s killer encounters her on the football field and tries to stab her with the dagger which only succeeds in wounding her and yet the dagger has mystical powers that causes a body swap between the two. Oh, and it takes place on Friday the 13th.

The next morning both the killer and the high schooler wake up in the other’s bodies. This is where Vaughn especially shines as he is able to recapture his goofy persona. The scenes where he tries to convince Millie’s friends that he is Millie definitely gets its comedic chops in.

As for Millie, she walks around with newfound confidence and a darker edge in contrast to her milquetoast demeanor. Boys start paying more attention to her and she even gives her shop teacher what for in a very gruesome fashion.

Freaky is indeed funny and incredibly gory, but we expected that. What surprised me is that it has also moments of a heart in addition to all of the blood-soaked thrills and laughs.

In one scene, Millie’s mom works at a clothing store and she sees Vaughn’s character in a dressing room. She doesn’t know that he and her daughter have switched bodies and yet she has a heart to heart with Vaughn about how hard life has been for Millie and herself since Millie’s dad died a year earlier. It provides a surprising amount of character development as well earning some smart laughs at the same time.

Moments like that make this a better than average horror comedy. Until the predictable and lengthy finale takes over, this is a surprisingly good slasher movie.

Grade: B+

(Rated R for sexual content, language throughout, and strong bloody horror violence.)

Fly fishing the Soque River near Batesville

By
Margie Williamson
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The Soque River is one of the best fly-fishing rivers in the United States. (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

We live near Batesville and travel Hwy 197 along the Soque River almost daily. Hwy 197 has been described as one of the most beautiful highways in Georgia. The highway travels along the Soque for several miles and the views are beyond beautiful!

Bob would rather fish than eat. (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

The Soque River is also unique geographically. The entire river is contained within Habersham County and travels almost 30 miles before flowing into the Chattahoochee River.

Once upon a time, fishing on the Soque was a somewhat hidden treasure in Habersham County. However, over the years, anglers have discovered that the river has some of the best fly-fishing in the country. One of the reasons for the great fly-fishing is the river itself. It’s ideally designed to make trout happy.

 

Fishing the Soque is a great way to spend the day. (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

 

On the other hand, the majority of the river is privately owned. People who own sections of the river work to keep fishing sustained in their sections, most stocking the river with trout and feeding the trout as well.

One of the best places along the river to see trout is at the Mark of the Potter, a pottery shop that offers work of local potters, located at 9982 GA-197, north of Clarkesville. The building that houses the Mark of the Potter is the historic Grandpa Watts’ Water Ground Mill which was built in the early 1930s. The building was purchased in 1969 to become a shop for local pottery and sits at the bottom of a large section of falls. The trout thrive there and can be easily seen from the parking lot and the mill’s deck. There is no fishing allowed at the Mark of the Potter. The trout there are treated more like pets and are fun to feed and watch.

The Mark of the Potter, located in the historic Grandpa Watt’s Water Ground Mill building , is on the Soque River. (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

If you’re into fly fishing or want to try the sport for the first time, you’ll want to discover the Soque’s delights on your own. You have two options. The first is to schedule your visit through one of the local fishing camps and guides. I’ve included several at the end of this article.

The second option is to try the public access to the river. Be aware that public access is limited. There’s a section of the river that is open to the public for fishing located just north of the Jackson Bridge. In local terminology, the Jackson Bridge is located shortly after you drive through the dip when going north on Hwy 197. You’ll see parking there and several more pull-offs over the next mile.

 

From what I’ve witnessed of fly fishing, the story telling of the one that got away is as important as the fishing. (Margie Williamson/Now Habersham)

 

Be very careful about straying into a part of the river that is not open to the public. Property owners along the river will not hesitate to prosecute trespassers. And, unlike many rivers in Georgia, they actually do own the river itself as it passes through their lands.

Bob was invited to join neighbors Addison and Janet fly fishing on a private stretch of the river. I went with them to watch them and to explore the birds as well.

If you don’t want to fish, birding is another option. (Photo by Bob Williamson)

Because the land along the Soque holds the fishing rights, the land is valuable and highly desired. If you aren’t ready to move to Habersham County and purchase your own stretch of heaven, check out these private places to fish: Black Hawk Fly Fishing, Brigadoon Lodge, Fern Valley on the Soque, Riverside Trout Fishing, and Unicoi Outfitters. 

Football Friday Scoreboard: Week 12

By
Now Habersham
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North Hall and White County ended their regular seasons with big wins over region rivals. Commerce claimed their region title, and Stephens County came back with a vengeance after being sidelined by COVID.

Here’s a look at your Northeast Georgia Football Friday Scoreboard:

Dawson County 21 – North Hall 34

The Trojans (5-4, 4-1) claimed #2 seed in 7-AAA Friday in a home matchup against Dawson County (5-4, 4-1). The Trojans jumped out to a 20-0 lead before Dawson clawed back in before the half. Both teams traded scores in the third before the Trojans notched a late TD to put the game away, 34-21. Brian Carter captured the highlights for BLITZ Sports. [see video]

White County 48 – #9 Cherokee Bluff 7

The Warriors were back to full strength Friday night and it showed. The Warriors blasted the undefeated region leader Cherokee Bluff, 48 to 7.

It was only 5 minutes into the first quarter when J Ben Haynes would throw his first touchdown pass to Darius Cannon, following that up quickly with the recovery of a fumble leading to the second touchdown pass to Cannon, and an early lead for the Warriors. It would be directly following the injury of White County running back Riley Stancil when the Bears were able to get one into the end zone, ending the first quarter 14 to 7. White County extended their lead before halftime with two interceptions and three more touchdowns. Entering the locker room up 34 to 7. Silas Mulligan scored twice in the third sealing the upset.

The win lifts the Warriors to 7-2 overall. White County is number 4 seed in the playoffs and will hit the road next Friday to take on the Rockmart Yellow Jackets.

East Jackson 12 – Stephens County 61

The Indians were sidelined for five weeks due to COVID but made up for lost time Friday night at home against East Jackson, routing the Eagles 61-12.

West Hall 56 – Lumpkin County 13

Lumpkin County was hoping to carry a win into the offseason, but that didn’t happen. West Hall took the win on the Indians’ home turf, 56-13.

Lincoln County 7 – #2 Commerce 17

The Tigers won their region title at home Friday night against Lincoln County, 17-7.

#1 Jefferson 47 – Madison County 0

Jefferson pulled off an expected win tonight against Madison County and, with it, an undefeated regular season. The Dragons shutout the Red Raiders on the road Friday night, 47-0.

Banks County 6 – Elbert County 36

The Elbert County Blue Devils claimed 2nd seed in the region, defeating the Leopards at home in the Granite Bowl, 36-6.

Towns County 0 – #9 Washington-Wilkes 34

The Indians fell to #5-ranked Washington-Wilkes on the road Friday, 34-0.

Habersham Central 45 – Shiloh 37 

The Raiders locked up 3 seed in Region 8-6A Saturday at Shiloh, 45-37. Next up for Habersham, a first-round playoff road trip to Rome.

Union County @ Gilmer (THURSDAY)

The Panthers travel to Gilmer in hopes of getting a win for the first time since October 23. Union needs a win to get some traction heading into the state playoffs.

Other area games

North Forsyth 0 – Gainesville 17
Denmark 10 – West Forsyth 20
Providence Christian 16 – Lakeview 35
Athens Christian 9 – Prince Avenue Christian 55
Cedar Shoals 48 – Chestatee 7
Hart County 16 – Monroe Area 19
Apalachee 17 – Jackson County 21
Northwest 29 – Pickens County 23
Fannin County 55 – Dade County 7
Lanier Christian 18 – Pinecrest 44
#5 Dacula 0 – #2 Buford 35
#5 Flowery Branch 55 – East Hall 14

Johnson @ Clarke Central (Canceled)
Oconee County @ Franklin County (Canceled)
Forsyth Central 0 – South Forsyth 1 (Forfeited)

Trent Crawford of WRWH Radio and Brian Carter of BLITZ contributed to this report

Celebrate Thanksgiving safely

By
Staff Report
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Medical protective mask on an autumn background. Pumpkin, red berries, on a wooden background with a mask in the middle.

Alarm over the surge in new COVID cases caused the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Thursday to issue one of its sharpest warnings to date, urging Americans not to travel for Thanksgiving this year. State public health officials echo that guidance. They say staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others.

COVID-19 spreads easily whether gatherings are large or small, putting families and friends at risk – especially individuals who are elderly or have underlying medical conditions.

“The surge of COVID-19 infections in Georgia and across the country means we must rethink our idea of a traditional Thanksgiving this year,” says Georgia Public Health Commissioner Dr. Kathleen Toomey. “Each family must assess the risk of exposure to COVID-19, especially among elderly or medically fragile individuals, as they weigh the decision to host or attend a holiday gathering.”

Health officials encourage people to consider alternative options for celebrating this year such as hosting a virtual Thanksgiving meal or making no-contact meal deliveries and visits with family and neighbors. Northeast Georgia Health System issued a bilingual guide outlining the health risks associated with traditional and non-traditional Thanksgiving activities. You can access the guide here.

If you do plan to travel and visit with family or friends outside your immediate household, Toomey says, “Everyone needs to follow the guidance of wearing a face mask, social distancing, and washing your hands frequently. And get a flu shot.”

The CDC recommends individuals who have not lived in the household during the two weeks ahead of the holiday (members of the military or college students home for the holiday) stay in a separate area of the house with a designated bathroom, if possible. Other recommendations include:

Wear a mask

  • Wear a mask with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19.
  • Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin.
  • Make sure the mask fits snugly against the sides of your face.

Stay at least 6 feet away from others who do not live with you

Wash your hands

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Keep hand sanitizer with you and use it when you are unable to wash your hands.
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Attending a Gathering

  • Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups and utensils.
  • Wear a mask, and safely store your mask while eating and drinking.
  • Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen.
  • Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates and utensils.

Hosting a Thanksgiving Gathering

  • Have a small outdoor meal with family and friends who live in your community.
  • Limit the number of guests.
  • Have conversations with guests ahead of time to set expectations for celebrating together.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use.
  • If celebrating indoors, make sure to open windows.
  • Limit the number of people in food preparation areas.
  • Have guests bring their own food and drink.
  • If sharing food, have one person serve food and use single-use options, like plastic utensils.

Thanksgiving Travel

  • Check travel restrictions before you go.
  • Get your flu shot before you travel.
  • Always wear a mask in public settings and on public transportation.
  • Stay at least 6 feet apart from anyone who is not in your household.
  • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer.

For more information about safely celebrating Thanksgiving log on to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html.

Georgia secretary of state certifies election results for Biden win

By
Stanley Dunlap
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Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger certified Georgia's Nov. 3 general election results on Friday, as President-elect Joe Biden edged out President Donald Trump by less than 13,000 votes. (John McCosh/Georgia Recorder)

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger certified Friday afternoon the presidential election results confirming President-elect Joe Biden’s win over President Donald Trump.

The official results have Biden edging out Trump by 12,670 votes, with the former vice president’s 2.47 million votes to Trump’s 2.46 million. The certification comes after Raffensperger ordered a full hand count of the 5 million ballots cast in the election with the audit showing no significant difference from the original electronic tally. 

Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, who is supposed to sign off on the results by Saturday evening, is planning to provide an election update at 5 p.m. Friday, his office announced.

Raffenspeger said regardless of which party is complaining about the outcome and the election system’s integrity, the hand count verifies that the state’s new electronic voting system is working correctly. The state’s top election official has been under fire by Trump and other fellow Republicans over the integrity of an election.  Biden is the first Democratic presidential candidate to win Georgia since Bill Clinton in 1992. 

“The numbers reflect the verdict of the people, not a decision by the secretary of state’s office or of courts, or by other campaigns,” Raffensperger said at a Friday morning press conference at the state Capitol. “I want to do everything I can to build voters’ trust in our electoral system.” 

Trump has until Tuesday to request a recount because of the thin margin. This time the recount would entail scanning paper ballots to see if they line up with the certified results. 

Trump’s personal attorney Rudy Giuliani said Thursday that the Trump campaign planned to file a “major lawsuit” contesting the election results in Georgia on Friday.

The audit uncovered about 5,900 missing votes in Fayette, Floyd, Walton and Douglas counties, which netted Trump 1,400 votes and provided his supporters more fodder to cast doubt on Biden’s win. The Trump campaign also criticized the recount for not being able to re-check the signatures of absentee voters since the signed envelopes containing the ballots have been thrown away.

Raffensperger announced Friday that he plans to advocate for election legislation next session that would  require photo ID verification for Georgians voting absentee.

Raffensperger also wants more control leading up to the election to remove voters from the roll if they are suspected of no longer being eligible for having moved out of Georgia or for other reasons. He also wants to give his office the ability to intervene in local counties if there are major election problems. 

“The audit revealed that in some counties, not all the votes, have been counted,” Raffensperger said. “That doesn’t mean those counties had systemic problems, but it does raise a concern. We must implement a reconciliation process that prevents such errors from happening in the future.”

This article appears in partnership with Georgia Recorder

Kemp addresses Georgians about 2020 election

By
Joy Purcell
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Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp held a press conference Friday to talk about the results of the 2020 election. He spoke about an hour after Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger certified the results.

Kemp’s press conference also followed a strange series of events Friday afternoon, starting with a state election official issuing a statement saying the results had been certified, then making a corrected statement within a half-hour that they would be certified later Friday.

In his brief remarks from his ceremonial office, Kemp expressed concern over the discovery of thousands of ballots in the recount that had not been previously counted. He called on the state legislature to tighten controls on absentee voting, including requiring photo IDs with absentee ballots.

The certified election results in Georgia show former Vice President Joe Biden won the state by 12,670 votes or .26%. By law, President Donald Trump and any other candidate who lost by less than .50% now has two business days to request a recount.

Corrected to reflect percentage required for recount is less than half a percentage point

Joe Ellis Morgan

By
Now Habersham
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Joe Ellis Morgan, age 73 of Cornelia, passed away on Wednesday, November 18, 2020.

Joe was the son of the late Haskell and Annabell Morgan. He was an auto body repair technician and owned his own repair shop in Demorest, “Morgan Customs Auto Repair”, where he worked alongside his two sons. Joe was affectionately known around town as “Toyota Joe”. He loved to spend his free time traveling.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his oldest son, David Truett Morgan.

Joe leaves behind his “Angel”, Kim Adams of Cornelia; wife, Lynn Morgan of Baldwin; daughter-in-law, Beverly Morgan of Cornelia; daughter and son-in-law, Nancy & Bryan Zimmerman of Cornelia; son, Dennis “Tater” Morgan of Cornelia; daughter and son-in-law, Paula & Seth Larsen of Toccoa; daughter and son-in-law, Jeannie & Michael Garrett of Clarkesville; grandchildren; Jonathan Morgan, Joseph Morgan, Megan Zimmerman, Emelia Larsen, Ethan Larsen, Kalebbe Garrett, Quentin Garrett, Cameron Garrett, Karina Garrett; 2 great-grandchildren; numerous other family members.

The family will receive friends from 4-8 pm on Saturday, November 21, 2020, at the funeral home.

Those in attendance are asked to please adhere to the public health and social distancing guidelines regarding COVID-19.

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com.

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

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