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Sheriff Robin Krockum takes office, swears-in employees Jan. 1

Former sheriff Joey Terrell pins insignias on the collar of Habersham County Sheriff Robin Krockum (Rob Moore/Habersham County)

Habersham County Sheriff Robin Krockum officially replaced former sheriff Joey Terrell at midnight on Jan. 1.

In audio provided by Habersham County officials Wednesday afternoon, Krockum described his first 45 minutes in office – much of which was spent swearing in employees at the sheriff’s office.

Sheriff Robin Krockum’s badge is pinned on by his wife Meadow (Rob Moore/Habersham County)

“Like I’ve said to my family and coworkers, I’m both nervous and excited,” Krockum said. “I look forward to helping this department grow and move forward. I think we’ll continue to be able to do great things for the citizens of Habersham County.”

As Krockum took office the moment the new year began, Terrell pinned insignias on his collar before his wife placed the badge on his uniform.

“It means a lot,” Krockum said. “Joey and I started around 1995-1995. We’ve worked together our whole careers. He’s been a friend and a mentor to me. To have my wife here, and my youngest daughter, to celebrate that with me, it means a lot. It’s important to me.”

Deputies are sworn in by Habersham County Sheriff Robin Krockum (Rob Moore/Habersham County)

Going forward, now as sheriff, Krockum said he’s eager to “serve the citizens of Habersham County.”

Krockum, 52, has a 28-year career in law enforcement – first with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office before he joined the Demorest Police Department. Krockum went on to lead Alto’s Police Department as chief when it was founded.

He came back to Habersham County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol commander under Terrell in 2009, then he returned to Demorest as police chief in 2016 until his retirement earlier this year.

Now-retired Sheriff Joey Terrell gives Habersham County Sheriff Robin Krockum a congratulatory hug (Rob Moore/Now Habersham)

We asked, you answered: New Year Intentions in 2025

The mere word “resolution” has become synonymous with failure. Year after year we pledge these New Year Resolutions and somewhere around mid-February (if we last that long), we set them aside and hope to do better next year.

I believe the term softened to “goals” or “plans.” As we unpacked those terms, we realized goals and plans are open-ended, and we can file them away for a more conducive time when all the stars are aligned and life is optimal for fulfilling them.

But intentions…it may just be the new way to say it which actually helps us to follow through with them.

So, I hit the streets to determine our readers’ intentions for the new year 2025 and share with you their aspirations for 2025.

Chris Wright, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A in Cornelia, wants to focus on making sure his top priorities receive his top effort.

Stephens County Superintendent, Dr. Connie Franklin said, “Personally, to grow in my relationship with God and make more time for family. Professionally, I aim to continue to Grow Greatness in Stephens County Schools by setting high expectations for students and staff and providing the support needed to achieve those expectations.”

Woods Furniture Marketing Director Marcia Hamil intends to travel with loved ones and continue to see progress in her health journey.

Todd Strickland, the owner of Your Pie on Clarkesville Square wants to be intentional about staying off his phone and lowering his screen time. “I want to be intentional about serving others,” he added. “I always strive to grow closer to God and have a peaceful existence with less stress.”

Anne Ward of Lake & Laurel on Clarkesville Square has set intentions to slow down and read the Bible to truly know God through His Word.

Pharmacist and mother of three Jennifer Jennings  expressed, “Being intentional – with family, friends, coworkers, and health.”

Banks County Superintendent Ann Hopkins wants to declutter her home. “As a school superintendent, I intend to emphasize the safety and mental health of our students and staff. We want to continue to strive for academic success and celebrate our achievements.”

For Pastor Ross Wheeler of Clarkesville Methodist Church, “Probably establishing a more complete personal presence in the places God has called me to serve in His name.”

Radio personality Cole Cleiman of WCHM, 93.4FM, chooses to be more family-oriented and spend time with loved ones. “I intend on taking more time to slow down to appreciate the little things and moments in life.” He also intends to continue providing a place at WCHM to promote the greatest things and greatest people in our community and help those less fortunate.

Dean Dyer, co-owner of WRWH 93.9FM Radio and publisher of wrwh.com in Cleveland, GA, has tried for 50 years to work less and relax more. He is hoping this is the year he makes that happen.

Habersham Chamber of Commerce President, Ellie Van Doornum, wants to do some traveling. “I’ll be working on strengthening existing relationships by being more present, attentive, and persistent.”

County Commissioner and attorney Bruce Harkness talked about his intentions of service. “God has placed me in a position to be able to help others and help our community. I pray to be the hands and feet of Jesus to be able to help those in need. I want to leave my community better than before I started.”

Express Care of Habersham’s Chet Baker intends to slow down a bit and spend more time with family and reconnect with old friends.

Melissa Reeder, co-owner with husband Jay of Community Brew & Tap, Fenders, and Farmacia Trattoria, put it simply, “I want to continue in my health journey, walking regardless, eating well regardless, drinking water regardless, and first and foremost, Jesus, regardless.” She added, “Keep loving – regardless.”

Diane Brown of The Norton Agency sums it up well, “My intentions are not to dwell on poor choices/sins that my Lord Jesus Christ has forgiven. I intend to look forward, not burdened by the past. I want to glorify God with everything I think, say, and do with my life that He has blessed before the beginning of time.”

What are your intentions? We’d love to hear from you! Email me at [email protected] or place a comment on our Now Habersham Facebook page.

 

Barbara Alice Thomas

Barbara Alice Thomas, age 46, of Alto, Georgia, entered this world on August 16, 1978, and left on December 31, 2024, after a very short battle with cancer.

Barbara was the youngest daughter of A.R. (Tony) Thomas and Eloise Loggins Thomas. Barbara was preceded in death by her mother, Eloise, and both sets of grandparents.

Surviving are her father, A.R. (Tony) Thomas; siblings Dwayne (Kaye) Sexton, Deborah (Robbie) Reed, Tonya (Randy) Hix, and Ryan (Amy) Thomas; favorite uncle Steve Thomas; and numerous other loving family members.

During her short battle with cancer, she showed a strength that those around her never knew she had. She went through four surgeries in a ten-day time frame and continued the battle.

Barbara will always be remembered as passionate, energetic, and outspoken. She was a high-spirited sister, a fun-loving aunt and great-aunt, lovingly referred to as Aunt Bobbie, a cherished daughter, and a best buddy. Barbara will be missed by all who knew her.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the Whitfield Funeral Home, South Chapel. Burial will follow at the Yonah Congregational Holiness Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the funeral home prior to the service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, South Chapel, 1370 Industrial Boulevard, Baldwin, Georgia 30511. Telephone: 706-778-7123.

UGA student critically injured in New Orleans attack

Authorities deliver an update on the New Year's morning vehicle attack on Bourbon Street that killed 10 and injured 35 others, including a UGA student. (Facebook Live image)

A University of Georgia student was critically injured and hospitalized when a car plowed through a crowd of pedestrians in New Orleans early Wednesday, killing 10 people and injuring at least 30 others. The incident occurred on Bourbon Street. The suspect was killed in a shootout with police.

UGA President Jere W. Morehead offered his sympathies to the victims and their families, saying, “I am deeply saddened by the devastating attack in New Orleans overnight, and I extend my sincere condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”

Morehead also expressed his gratitude to the first responders and medical professionals who assisted those affected by the attack.

The student, whose identity has not been released, is receiving medical care. Morehead said he spoke with the student’s family to offer support and convey the best wishes of the university community.

All team personnel and members are safe and accounted for, according to a UGA Athletic Association student.

The UGA Red Coat Marching Band also posted a statement to X stating that all of its members and staff are safe.

Sugar Bowl postponed

The Georgia Bulldogs were set to play the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans on Wednesday night. However, after the Sugar Bowl Committee initially indicated that the game would go on as scheduled, authorities announced the game would be postponed for 24 hours due.

The Sugar Bowl Committee said it is working closely with authorities to ensure safety. The Committee said it is “devastated by the terrible events of this morning” and added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”

FBI: Suspect had ISIS flag in truck

Authorities identified the suspect in the deadly attack as Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, of Texas. He was killed after a shootout with police once his pickup truck collided with a lift vehicle at the intersection of Bourbon and Conti streets, the FBI confirmed.

After striking the lift, the FBI said Jabbar shot at law enforcement on the scene and was killed by return fire. Two police officers were wounded in the shootout and hospitalized in stable condition.

Another 35 people struck by the truck were also injured, including the critically injured UGA student.

The FBI is leading the investigation into what the agency has deemed a terrorist attack. The agency says agents discovered possible improvised explosive devices at the scene. A flag for the jihadist Islamic State group was also found in the truck, along with other firearms.

Law enforcement officials held a press conference Thursday afternoon to update the public on the situation in New Orleans. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell joined them and said city and state officials are working closely together to ensure the safety of New Orleans residents and visitors.

Suspect in Bourbon Street mass fatality had ISIS flag in truck: FBI

At least 10 people were killed and dozens more were injured after a suspect in a rented pickup truck allegedly drove around barricades and through a crowd of New Year’s revelers on Bourbon Street in New Orleans early Thursday, Jan. 1, 2025. The suspect then got out of the car, opened fire on police officers, and was subsequently killed by law enforcement. (Credit: FOX 8 New Orleans via X)

NEW ORLEANS (Louisiana Illuminator) — Authorities have identified the man who sped down Bourbon Street early Wednesday morning, killing at least 10 people and injuring dozens more.

Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, of Texas was killed after a shootout with police once his pickup truck collided with a lift vehicle at the intersection of Bourbon and Conti streets, the FBI has confirmed. He reportedly drove around a police barricade at Canal Street, intentionally striking pedestrians.

After Jabbar struck a lift vehicle, the FBI said he shot at law enforcement on the scene and was killed by return fire. Two police officers were wounded in the shootout and taken to University Medical Center, where New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said they were in stable condition.

Another 35 people struck by the truck were also injured and taken to local hospitals, with some reported in critical condition.

The FBI is leading the investigation into what the agency said is calling a terrorist attack. They reported possible improvised explosive devices were also discovered at the scene. A flag for the jihadist Islamic State group was found in the truck, along with other firearms.

At around 3:15 a.m., the driver of the truck steered around a police barricade at Canal Street meant to keep vehicles off of Bourbon Street and sped into a crowd, Kirkpatrick said. It appears the truck was able to travel three blocks before colliding with a lift vehicle near Conti Street.

“He was hellbent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did,” the police chief said.

Steel bollards that rise from the street were installed along and near Bourbon Street in 2017 to protect pedestrians, but they are in the process of being replaced according to the city’s Department of Public Works website.

Bomb squad personnel were seen entering the French Quarter, which the FBI said is being scoured for additional explosive devices. Several small booms have been heard blocks away, which City Council members said were controlled detonations to clear possible IEDs.

An eight-block stretch of Bourbon Street remains closed to traffic and pedestrians, and some hotels in the French Quarter were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The public is being asked to avoid a large portion of the historic neighborhood, which typically sees crowds larger than typical weekends for New Year’s Eve.

New Orleans is hosting fans of the University of Georgia and Notre Dame for the Sugar Bowl, scheduled for Wednesday night at the Superdome. Representatives with the event have said they are speaking with local, state and federal authorities to keep apprised of developments.

Hospitality and service industry employees reporting for work Wednesday morning were being turned away from cordoned-off areas.

The city will also host Super Bowl LIX on Feb. 9.

Lavonia Police Department opens as warming station

The Lavonia Police Department in Franklin County has opened the doors of its lobby as a warming center for those without shelter.

The Lavonia/Franklin County area will see averages around 54 degrees throughout the day before temperatures dip to the mid-to-low 30s Wednesday night. Much lower temperatures are expected to settle over North Georgia next week.

A food pantry also is available at the department, as local businesses have offered food and other supplies, if needed.

Lavonia police said there are about four known homeless individuals in the area, though officers have sought to make contact with others without shelter to ensure they’re aware meals and shelter are available.

The department is located at 12221 Augusta Rd. in Lavonia.

Dr. Doris Juanita Davenport

Doris Juanita Davenport is the first born daughter of Ethel Mae Gibson (daughter of John and Elvira Smalls Gibson) and Claude Judson Davenport, Jr. (grandson of Arthur and Maggie Wright) – and Big Sister to Dolores, Sandra, Maggie, Tanya, Audrey and Anthony. From an early age, she was a lover of reading, learning and imparting knowledge. She became our beloved educator/nurturer, poet, writer and performance artist.

The following autobiographical sketch was taken from her last book, “testimony: poems, proclamations, potions.” (Available on Amazon.)

“Pronouns: person/per – a visionary working class / philosophical anarchist, 75-year-old sapiosexual Lesbian-Feminist / LGBTQ+ Nation & Alternate ROOTS member (20+ years); writer, performance poet, educator & independent scholar; born and raised in traditional Cherokee Homelands (euro-colonized Northeast Georgia). I have published 13 books of poetry (several available on Amazon & Kindle). I constantly, continually, adamantly work to end all forms of oppression, towards truth & honesty – based egalitarian, inclusive and *magical* realities. Education: BA, Paine College, Augusta, GA; MA SUNY/Buffalo, NY; PhD, Univ. of Southern California.

I have taught literature and composition at numerous colleges & universities; published reviews, articles, essays, and books of poetry; have been an Avon lady, a bartender, editor, a “Kelly Girl,” and a librarian; have done more than 120 poetry performances, collaborations, and workshops. (And a dancer and a photographer.)

Doris was born in Gainesville, GA (January 29, 1949) and delivered by Dr. E.E. Butler. The family lived on Collins Street and spent lots of time with paternal great-grandparents ‘Granny and Grandpa’ in Newtown. She attended Fair Street Elementary School for first and second grades, after which the family moved to Cornelia to the house of maternal grandparents ‘Mevie and Daddy John’ at 103 Soque Street, at the foot of the Hill.

The Hill was the neighborhood that formed the roots from which her love of people and community, artistic expression and pure love of life sprang. She attended Cornelia Regional [Colored] School where she skipped a grade in elementary as well as grade 12. She started Paine College at 16, graduated with an English BA and honors, then an MA in English from the State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo, and a PhD in English literature from the University of Southern California (USC).

She returned to her beloved Northeast Georgia to retire. After a relatively short but aggressive struggle with a diseased liver, Doris joined the Ancestors on December 2, 2024.

Dr. Doris Davenport shared freely of her vast expertise, artistry, knowledge and skills. In addition to her family, she leaves a vast network of ‘spirit dawtahs,’ sister-friends and colleagues who will always cherish her time on this earth.

Services/Memorial

As per her wishes, her remains will be scattered “in the traditional Cherokee Homelands, euro-colonized Northeast Georgia” on Tower (Chenocetah) Mountain and Mt. Yonah. A celebration in her honor will be held at a later date; details will be shared on Facebook.

Instead of flowers and gifts we ask that contributions in honor of Dr. Doris Davenport be made to the Audrey Davenport Endowed Scholarship at Piedmont University.

Mail contributions: Piedmont University, Audrey Davenport (Student) Scholarship
University Advancement Department, P.O. Box 10, Demorest, GA 30535

For online contributions: Contact the University Advancement Department at [email protected] for details.

Please accept our heartfelt thanks for your comments, the memories that you shared, and any contributions to continuing her work and legacy.

With deepest gratitude,
The Davenport Family

Habersham County calls for public input on safety action plan

Habersham County Administration Building (Daniel Purcell/Now Habersham)

Habersham County has called on citizens for their input as officials consider details of a future safety action plan, which will serve as an infrastructure-based strategy to minimize roadway deaths.

A safety action plan, established by the discretionary grant program through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress four years ago, is a document that provides local governments a roadmap for strategic roadway safety improvements.

As intended, the plans pinpoint needed roadway safety concerns in communities and outline the projects and strategies to address those potential issues.

The infrastructure bill, as passed, has $5 billion in appropriated funds for local governments in a 5-year period from 2022 to 2026.

Funding from the federal grant aims to support local jurisdictions in planning, infrastructure, behavioral and operational initiatives to reduce death as well as serious injury for motorists, with an emphasis on equity in the improvement of roads and streets.

How to participate

Habersham County now is looking to members of the public for feedback about existing concerns or areas in need of improvement.

To get involved:

  • Visit Habersham County’s website here to learn more about the safety improvement plan. Then complete the brief online survey.
  • Help Habersham identity transportation and safety needs in the county using the interactive map.
  • Sign up for the mailing list to stay informed of any updates to the plan

Fannie “Ruth” (Cash) Mealor

Fannie “Ruth” (Cash) Mealor, 88, of Demorest, went home to be with the Lord on December 31, 2024.

Born on July 5, 1936, in Mount Airy, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Ameil Cash and Bertie Greemon Cash. Mrs. Mealor worked for a number of years at Clarkesville Mill, Regency Printers, and Walmart in Cornelia. Although she enjoyed sewing, floral arranging, and homemaking, Ruth’s greatest love was the love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a member of Camp Creek Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Loran Mealor, brothers Ray Cash and Tommy Cash, and her sister, Bertha Mealor Green.

Survivors include daughters Angie Withrow (Tommy) and Pam Wright (Gary); grandchildren Kyle Withrow (Megan) of Clarkesville and Mark Withrow (Rebekah) of Mt. Airy; great-grandsons Hunter and Easton Withrow and sister Frances Ledford of Gainesville, as well as nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to caregiver Megan Williams and long-time special friend, Judy Spink and the Northeast Georgia Hospice.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Yonah Memorial Gardens, with Pastor Philip Yarber officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Mrs. Mealor to the Bethlehem Baptist Building Fund, P.O. Box 488, Clarkesville, GA 30523, and Grace Baptist Church Missions Fund, 1768 Chase Rd, Cornelia, GA 30531.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel, at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.

Lady Raiders double up Stephens with stifling defense [VIDEO]

The Lady Raiders smothered Stephens County at home on New Year’s Eve in a 62-31 final, doubling up their rivals. Habersham Central (3-8) took control early with a 15-2 first quarter and never let up.

Back-to-back 3-pointers by Daytona Underwood and Paisley Cathey as part of a 7-2 opening run, with the former tallying eight first quarter points.

Stephens County (2-10) ended a 17-0 drought in the second quarter, but the Lady Raiders went back on another such run of 16-0, highlighted by two straight deep shots from Oaklee Jackson. Hab Central had five 3-pointers in the first half.

It was much the same the rest of the way after going up 33-8 at the break. The Lady Raiders got some early buckets in the third by Tessa Murdock to build and maintain a 30-plus point lead, which led to a 6-minute clock in the final period.

Murdock and Underwood both had 14 points, as 10 different players for Habersham scored. Jackson had 10, Makenzie Gosnell had six, and both Sadie Chambers and Cathey recorded five. Katie Roberts added three, with Macy Huff, Dacie Nash, and Jaden Bailes chipping in with two points apiece.

Stephens County was paced by Aleria Faulkner’s eight points, and six each from Jasmine Haji and Terynn Mitchell. Jasmine Russell had five, and Nevaeh Holland and Zyonna Kelly both had three.

SEE ALSO

Hab Central puts together highlight reel in win over Stephens [VIDEO]

Hab Central puts together highlight reel in win over Stephens [VIDEO]

#5-ranked Habersham Central put on a straight-up clinic on New Year’s Eve at home with a blowout 68-47 win against Stephens County (1-10). In a game that featured an alley-oop, several dunk attempts, and plenty of 3-pointers, the Raiders (13-2) featured 11 players with points in the victory.

Habersham took an early lead with five points from Enzo Combs and four from Judge Wilbanks, as the Raiders had a comfy margin of 17-7 after one. In the second, Colsen Ivey kept Stephens County in contention with three shots from beyond the arc. However, Combs and JoJo McCurry, along with Wilbanks, had the home team up 34-16 at the half.

Combs had an alley-oop dunk in the third, with a trifecta seconds later as Habersham pulled even further ahead. That’s when the Raiders subbed in several bench players, still putting up points to the tune of a 56-36 lead going into the final frame.

11 different players scored for Habersham Central, led by Combs’ 15 (and 3 3PT). Wilbanks and McCurry each had a dozen, and Jalen Davis had nine. Ethan Hudson and Jake Mihalik both had four, Brody Bantum and Koby Rafferty had three apiece, and Caden Garrison, Micah Huff, and Justus Gober all recorded two each.

The Indians got 12 from Wilson Stacy and 11 from Ivey. Zykemian Durham added six, Brock Tankersley had five, Jeremiah Scott four, and three apiece for CJ Harbin, Jayden Haynie, and #0 (not listed on roster).

SEE ALSO

Lady Raiders double up Stephens with stifling defense [VIDEO]

Martin Frias

Martin Frias, age 57, of Clarkesville, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, following a two-year battle with cancer.

Mr. Frias was born on August 17, 1967, in Mexico to the late Antonio Frias and Angelina Castro. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Jose Frias.

Martin was an exceptional person, and was always very happy. He will be remembered as a wonderful husband and a very loving father and grandfather.

Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Patricia A Vera, of Clarkesville; daughter, Maria Frias and Jose Sanchez, of Clarkesville; daughter, Andrea Frias and Francisco Sanchez, of Mt. Airy; daughter, Fatima Frias and Cristobal Ojeda, of Clarkesville; grandchildren, Santiago, Emanuel, and Samuel Sanchez; Ivan, Sofia, and Amelia Sanchez; Camille Ojeda.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, January 3, 2025, at the St. Mark Catholic Church in Clarkesville. Interment will follow in the Yonah Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, January 2, 2025 at the Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.

_____

Martín Frías, de 57 años, de Clarkesville, Georgia, falleció el martes 31 de diciembre de 2024 luego de una batalla de dos años contra el cáncer.

El Sr. Frías nació el 17 de agosto de 1967 en México, hijo del fallecido Antonio Frías y Angelina Castro. Le precedieron en la muerte su hijo pequeño, José Frías.

Martín era una persona excepcional y siempre estaba muy feliz. Será recordado como un esposo maravilloso y un padre y abuelo muy cariñoso.

Le sobreviven su amada esposa durante 35 años, Patricia A Vera, de Clarkesville; hija, María Frías y José Sánchez, de Clarkesville; hija, Andrea Frías y Francisco Sánchez, de Mt. Airy; hija, Fátima Frías y Cristóbal Ojeda, de Clarkesville; nietos, Santiago, Emanuel y Samuel Sánchez; Iván, Sofía y Amelia Sánchez; Camila Ojeda.

Se llevará a cabo una misa de funeral a las 12:00 p. m. el viernes 3 de enero de 2025 en la Iglesia Católica St. Mark en Clarkesville. Seguirá el entierro en Yonah Memorial Gardens.

La familia recibirá amigos a partir de las 16:00 horas. a 9:00 p. m., el jueves 2 de enero de 2025 en Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel.

Los arreglos se han confiado a Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel en 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Teléfono: 706-778-1700.