FILE - The Supreme Court is pictured, Oct. 7, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib, File)
WASHINGTON (AP) — Chief Justice John Roberts issued a defense Tuesday of judicial independence, which he said is under threat from intimidation, disinformation and the prospect of public officials defying court orders.
Roberts laid out his concerns in his annual report on the federal judiciary. It was released after a year where the nation’s court system was unusually enmeshed in a closely fought presidential race, with then-Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump attacking its integrity as he faced criminal charges for which he denied wrongdoing.
Trump won the race following a landmark Supreme Court immunity decisionpenned by Roberts that, along with another high court decision halting efforts to disqualify him from the ballot, removed obstacles to his election. The immunity decision came under criticism from Democrats like President Joe Biden.
Trump is now readying for a second term as president with an ambitious agenda, elements of which are likely to be legally challenged and end up before the court whose conservative majority includes three justices appointed by Trump during his first term.
Roberts and Trump clashed in 2018 when the chief justice rebuked the president for denouncing a judge who rejected his migrant asylum policy as an “Obama judge.”
Roberts didn’t mention Trump in this year’s annual report. Instead, he wrote generally that even if court decisions are unpopular or mark a defeat for a presidential administration, other branches of government must be willing to enforce them to ensure the rule of law.
He pointed to the Brown v. Board of Education decision that desegrated schools in 1954 as one that needed federal enforcement in the face of resistance from southern governors.
“It is not in the nature of judicial work to make everyone happy,” he wrote.
The chief justice also decried elected officials across the political spectrum who have “raised the specter of open disregard for federal court rulings.”
“Attempts to intimidate judges for their rulings in cases are inappropriate and should be vigorously opposed,” he wrote. While public officials have the right to criticize rulings, they should also be aware of that their statements can “prompt dangerous reactions by others.”
He also pointed to disinformation about court rulings as a threat to judges’ independence, saying that social media can magnify distortions and even be exploited by “hostile foreign state actors” to exacerbate divisions.
Threats of violence against judges around the country have been on the rise across the country in recent years, something that Roberts called “wholly unacceptable.”
Johnnie Gresham McCollum (Mac), age 96, of Clarkesville, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.
Mr. McCollum was born on August 29, 1928, in Habersham County, Georgia to the late Price and Birdie Church McCollum. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Margie McCollum; son-in-law, Jim Briggs; siblings, G.P. McCollum, Curtis McCollum, Reeves McCollum, Celestine Nicholson, Hazel Fisher, and Lewis McCollum. Johnnie was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Johnnie proudly served his country for 20 years as a member of the United States Army, dedicating his career to protecting and upholding the values of freedom and service, retiring as Warrant Officer, Sp. 3. After retiring from the military, he embarked on a new chapter as an educator with the State of Georgia, where he spent two decades and then retired from Lee Arrendale. Even in retirement, Johnnie’s passion for teaching continued as he served as a substitute teacher for several years. A man of strong faith, Johnnie was a dedicated member of Clarkesville Baptist Church, where he served as Treasurer for many years. Johnnie found joy in many pursuits during his lifetime. He was an accomplished woodworker, crafting pieces with care. He also enjoyed playing the guitar. Johnnie was also an avid philatelist and numismatist, finding great fulfillment in collecting and studying stamps and coins.
Survivors include his daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda Briggs, of Greenwood, SC; Jorie and Ron Stephens, of Clarkesville; grandchildren and spouses, Kevin Briggs and Erin; Martin Briggs and Molly; great-grandchildren, Winstin and Austin; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel. Interment will follow in the Yonah Memorial Gardens with Military Honors provided by the United States Army and the Grant Reeves Honor Guard.
The family will gather at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. for those that wish to pay their respects.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.
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Michael William Laughead, age 80, of Cleveland, Georgia, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024.
Mr. Laughead was born on January 13, 1944, in Galesburg, Illinois. He was a proud United States Veteran, dedicating himself to the Air Force for four years. Michael was a member of Jesus and Jeans Church. He was an accomplished writer and was proud of having his work published. Outside of his professional and creative pursuits, Michael had a deep love for the ocean. He spent countless hours aboard his sailboat, where he found peace and solitude on the water. Most importantly, Michael will be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Survivors include his loving wife of 12 years, Barbara Laughead, of Cleveland; daughter and son-in-law, Jenna and David Lydon, of Pennsylvania; son and daughter-in-law, Charles and Jessica Laughead, of Florida; stepsons and their spouses, Kristopher and Daina Ratliff, of Florida; Kyle and Erica Ratliff, of Georgia; grandchildren, Jimmy, Sara, Madison; Kris, Jr.; Anthony, Aurora, and Jordan; and one great-grandchild, Rowan. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jackie Corbin.
Michael’s wishes were to be cremated and a private celebration of his life to be held for his family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, South Chapel at 1370 Industrial Boulevard, Baldwin, Georgia 30511. Telephone: 706-778-7123.
The year 2024 was full of change, triumphs, tragedy and political transformation here in Habersham and across Northeast Georgia.
Now, as the minutes draw toward midnight for the start of a new year, North Georgians and the nation alike can reflect on the more memorable headlines – some of which will continue to evolve into the New Year.
For 2024, Now Habersham has selected the top 12 stories that have surprised, saddened and shaped the region in the last 365 days.
Apalachee High School shooting
Just over three months ago, the state of Georgia mourned after a shooting at Apalachee High School in early September.
In what’s now known as the deadliest school shooting in Georgia’s history, a 14-year-old Apalachee High School student named Colt Gray allegedly shot and killed two teachers and two students on Sept. 4. Nine others also were injured during the incident.
In the wake of the tragedy, thousands of high school students would stage demonstrations across Georgia – including a student-led walkout at Habersham Central High School – demanding action from lawmakers.
Schools throughout the state would also implement new measures to tighten security on their campuses. Here in North Georgia, Habersham and White County were among school systems to install Centegix – a wearable remote crisis alert system that can notify authorities and shutdown buildings within seconds.
Gray has been charged with murder and will be tried as an adult next year.
Maria Gomez missing persons case
Andres Gomez Alonso speaks with reporters after learning that his daughter was found safe in Ohio. (Jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)
Over the summer, a missing 12-year-old Hall County girl had law enforcement agencies and the public in high gear. For nearly two months, communities throughout the state shared her photo across social media platforms to raise awareness as police followed leads and searched for Maria Gomez.
Gomez had been missing since May 29, last seen at her home on Westside Drive in Gainesville, before she was found safe in Ohio.
Authorities believe Gomez had been at the home of Antonio Agustin-Ailon, who is now accused of kidnapping and sexual abuse. After initial contact through social media, according to police, Agustin-Ailon, 34, allegedly drove from Ohio to Georgia and took Gomez from her home in Gainesville and brought her back to Ohio.
Agustin-Ailon has since pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted, he could face life in prison.
2024 Presidential Election
FILE – Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, left, greets President Donald Trump as he arrives at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Nov. 8, 2019, in Marietta, Ga. (Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP, File)
Perhaps the most momentous story of 2024, one could argue, is the comeback of former President Donald Trump. Trump, a businessman and reality TV star, was elected in 2016 after he defeated former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Trump would come up short in 2020 after falling to President Joe Biden in a handful of swing states, including Georgia – which had gone blue for the first time since the election of Bill Clinton in 1992.
Just this year, Biden would announce his decision not to launch a bid for reelection and throw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris. Harris, running alongside Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, would ultimately fare poorly against the former president on Election Day in November.
In an almost unprecedented comeback, Trump would trounce the Harris campaign in a decisive victory, sweeping all battleground states and securing the popular vote nationwide.
Trump is set to be sworn in to his second term as the 47th U.S. president on Jan. 20.
Now Habersham Debate
Habersham County Commission candidates square off during Now Habersham’s 2024 HABCO Primary Debate, front row from left, Bruce Palmer, Bruce Harkness, and Ty Akins. Back row from left, Eric Holbrooks, Kelly Woodall, Wade Rhodes, Locke Arnold, and Gisela McGugan. (Photo by Jeremy Cooper)
In another monumental moment, Now Habersham hosted its first debate.
During the event in May, eight Habersham County Commission candidates and four Board of Education contenders had the chance to lay out their visions and win over voters before the primary.
The debate, held at the Demorest Municipal Complex on May 9, drew an audience of around 150 in-person and thousands of viewers online. Now Habersham’s Nora Almazan and Jerry Neace moderated as candidates addressed issues of growth, school safety and employee pay.
The event marked a significant milestone for Now Habersham’s presence as a prominent, go-to news platform in North Georgia as well as a clear indication of the company’s future expansion in the region.
New sheriff in town – Joey Terrell turns reins over to Robin Krockum
Habersham County Sheriff Joey Terrell soon bids farewell as the top officer of the sheriff’s office (Brian Wellmeier/Now Habersham)
After more than 15 years, longtime Habersham County Sheriff Joey Terrell, 55, decided to bid farewell to office.
Former Demorest Police Chief Robin Krockum will step into the role as sheriff on Jan. 1. With Terrell’s support, Krockum ran unopposed and was elected in November.
In 2008, after more than a decade with the agency, Terrell resigned from the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office to run against the acting sheriff, DeRay Fincher. Terrell won that race, implementing a gamut of policy changes for three more terms before he decided “it was time” to leave office in 2024.
“I don’t know what exactly the plan is,” Terrell told Now Habersham in December. “But I’m excited to see where it’s going … None of us is afforded tomorrow, but I’m kind of excited to see what I can do beyond law enforcement.”
In 2025 – and for the foreseeable future – Terrell’s successor will have a spate of issues to tackle as sheriff. The largest of those is arguably the Habersham County Jail, which is known to have limited capacity, instances of potential rights violations and an array of obsolescence issues.
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. He then returned to Demorest as police chief in 2016 until his retirement earlier this year – when Terrell brought him on as chief deputy amid the leadership transition.
Palmer voted out, Woodall takes District 1
Habersham County Probate Judge Pam Wooley administers the oath of office to incoming County Commissioner Kelly Woodall. (Jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)
Another leadership change was set in motion in May of 2024, after Commissioner Bruce Palmer – an active member of Habersham County’s top governing body – was defeated by local business owner Kelly Woodall.
Woodall, set to take office on Jan. 1, received 1,425 votes to candidate Eric Holbrooks’ 972 in a runoff election in June.
For the next four years, Woodall will represent Habersham County’s District 1 as officials face a slew of issues – from the jail to government spending, growth and development, the old courthouse building as well as issues of the landfill’s capacity.
Palmer, known to favor growth over the years, said he’ll remain involved in local government and continue to serve as a “vocal” advocate on county issues across the board.
Palmer has not ruled out a possible run for that seat again in the future, he said.
Rodriguez-Ramirez murder
A deputy escorts murder suspect Angel DeJesus Rivera Sanchez into the magistrate courtroom in Clarkesville on Dec. 18, 2024. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)
One of the more tragic stories in 2024 was the murder of Minelys Zoe Rodriguez-Ramirez, the 25-year-old single mother who was found shot to death in Cornelia in October.
Rodriguez-Ramirez had last been seen at Walmart in Cornelia before she was later reported missing. Days later, authorities found Rodriguez-Ramirez’s body in the woods behind Walmart on Furniture Drive.
Police arrested and charged Angel DeJesus Rivera-Sanchez, 24, of Cornelia, with murder the following week. The suspect stood before Magistrate Judge Tricia Hise in the Habersham County Courthouse for a preliminary hearing on December 18.
With various questions still surrounding the case, the prosecution and defense will continue to make their arguments well into 2025.
Fatal River Point Church van accident
In June of 2024, another tragedy came at one of Habersham County’s most dangerous intersections: An SUV collided with a van carrying nine members of River Point Community Church on GA 365 at Demorest-Mt. Airy Highway.
It was the final day of River Point’s local community mission project, ‘Serve Wknd 2024.’ Two church vans were traveling together when the SUV struck one of them on the passenger’s side.
Five of the teens were injured. Of those, one was airlifted to Egleston Children’s Hospital in Atlanta in critical condition, and two others were transported to Atlanta-area children’s hospitals.
The 15-year-old boy, Teddy Bone, airlifted to Egleston Hospital in Atlanta, later died.
Authorities say Barry Clark, 64, was allegedly impaired when he ran the red light at the intersection and struck the southbound Ford Econoline van.
Clark has been charged for alleged crimes leading up to the boy’s death in a case that will continue to develop next year.
Hurricane Helene
After days of forecasting how Hurricane Helene might impact my native Northeast Georgia, the storm shifted and hit my adopted hometown much harder. This mobile home is one of many homes in western North Carolina that were damaged or destroyed. (Photo by Tyler Penland)
About three months ago, Northeast Georgia dodged a potential catastrophe when Hurricane Helene came up Florida’s Panhandle and then rolled through Georgia, leveling communities across the state and North Carolina.
Had the storm not veered east, meteorologists believe North Georgia could have potentially seen the devastation experienced in western North Carolina, where cleanup efforts are still underway in areas decimated by Helene.
Still, Helene left notable damage throughout Habersham and surrounding counties, as crews spent days restoring electricity and clearing debris and downed trees from roadways.
Alicia Vaughn resigns
Habersham County Commissioner and County Manager Alicia Vaughn attends their last commission meeting. (Jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)
After more than three years in the position, Habersham County Manager Alicia Vaughn resigned following a county commission meeting in September.
The announcement of Vaughn’s departure came in September after a meeting in executive session between her and commissioners, though details of what might’ve led to the decision haven’t been disclosed by county officials publicly.
In an amended employment agreement, Vaughn was paid a severance package of six months of her base salary ($101,639.20), her COBRA insurance for health coverage for the same period (approximately $5,500), plus an additional 15% for a senior management retirement program (approximately $15,245.88).
Habersham County Finance Manager Tim Sims was named interim county manager in early December. Sims is also an applicant for the position, which has since been reposted as county officials search for Vaughn’s permanent replacement.
Commissioners plan to interview at least five qualified candidates, if not more, in the coming months.
The salary range for the county manager position is set between $120,000 and $175,000. To be considered, applicants must meet the minimum requirement of a Bachelor’s degree in public administration, government operations, accounting, business management or a similar field.
Old Habersham County courthouse
(Daniel Purcell/NowHabersham.com)
The old courthouse building, constructed in the 1960s, has stood on the square in downtown Clarkesville for decades.
And now, after withstanding a vote to demolish the structure earlier this year, the building will remain there on the square into 2025.
Despite ongoing efforts by the city of Clarkesville, Habersham County’s Development Authority and other officials, the motion to bring the building down failed 3-2 in early December.
Habersham County Commission Chairman Ty Akins and Commissioner Dustin Mealor voted in favor of demolition while Commissioners Bruce Harkness, Bruce Palmer and Jimmy Tench opposed the motion for separate reasons.
Tench has not told Now Habersham his reasoning for voting ‘no.’
Earlier this year, under a previous tentative agreement, Atlanta-based real estate firm Parkside Partners would’ve purchased the old courthouse and surrounding 2.07 acres for $500,000 with plans to repurpose the building for 21 luxury residential and condominium-style units that would overlook the downtown square. But, with the cost of redevelopment deemed too high, the deal fell through and Parkside terminated that agreement on Oct. 1.
County documents state the property the old courthouse sits on would be more valuable without the building itself. Latest appraisal figures obtained from Habersham County appraise the property at $900,000 with the building and more than $1 million without it.
The fate of the courthouse is yet to be seen, as commissioners are expected to take another vote on future demolition at a regular meeting in January of 2025.
Rabun County’s Gunner Stockton to lead the Dawgs in 2025
UGA backup QB Gunner Stockton of Rabun County led the Bulldogs to their third SEC title under Coach Kirby Smart. Stockton came off the bench to help the Bulldogs win it after Carson Beck was injured. (livesteram image SEC Network)
In an unforeseen turn, Tiger native and former Rabun County High School star football player Gunner Stockton will get his first college start as quarterback for the University of Georgia as the Dawgs take on Notre Dame in the second round of the college football playoffs.
Georgia and Notre Dame will collide on the gridiron at 8:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1, in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.
Stockton, who has never started a college game, replaces quarterback Carson Beck. Beck previously led the offense for the last two seasons before he suffered an elbow injury against the Texas Longhorns in the SEC Championship in Atlanta on Dec. 7. He has since undergone surgery and declared himself eligible for the 2025 NFL draft.
Through a combination of runs and pass plays, Stockton was able to help Georgia defeat the Longhorns 22-19 in the SEC title game. Now, as the first day of 2025 approaches, the young quarterback from Rabun County will have his first major test of the year as the Dawgs face the Irish on the road to the National Championship.
Charles “Charlie” Hubert Cleveland, 87, of Demorest, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 30, 2024.
Born in Clarkesville, Georgia, on November 28, 1937, he was a son of the late Lewis and Angeline Burton Cleveland. Charlie worked in the appliance repair industry for several years and retired from Habersham Metal, where he worked in fabrication. In his spare time, he worked with various children’s ministries and could be seen at Christmas time playing the role of Santa Claus at Walmart in Cornelia. Charlie was an avid Georgia Bulldog fan and enjoyed pitching a game of horseshoes. He was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Cornelia. Charlie was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Stevie Bruce, as well as five brothers and three sisters.
Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Nancy Allen Cleveland of Demorest, GA; sons and daughter-in-law, James & Renea Cleveland of Toccoa, GA; Jon Cleveland of Clarkesville, GA; daughters and spouse, Tammy Cleveland and Yvonne Ankerich of Homer, GA, and Jennifer Good of Mount Sterling, KY; grandchildren, Vanessa Cleveland and Dereck Holland, Cory, and Hope Cleveland, Jessica and George Anglin, Cody and Nina Good, Nicholas Cleveland, and Daniel Upton; 19 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.
Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 04, 2024, at the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire, with Rev. Robert Nix and Rev. Chris York officiating. Interment will follow in the New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour on Saturday, January 04, 2024.
It was the first in our “Livin’ the Dream” series as we followed Madeline McClurg around the world from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada to Alaska and more, McClurg shared with us an adventure of a lifetime.
Her sense of adventure and love of travel make this job her Livin’ the Dream. (Madeline McClurg)
Trainer Evan Windham left the professional soccer world to return to his hometown in White County with the dream of helping others become the best they can be. His story is one of perseverance and grit. “I want to work with children and adults. Anyone who wants to become a better self – I can help – and not just in soccer. Weight training, guided trail running, guided hiking, and soccer training are ways I can help people to become who they want to be.”
Evan Windham wants to help children develop a love for sports. (submitted)
Cherokee Bluff High School’s special needs classroom in Gainesville, GA, visited the South Hall County Precinct to experience where their School Resource Officers worked. The field trip became emotional when student Ashton Lyons gave his former SRO a big bear hug.
Lt. Joey Walker of Hall County Sheriff’s Office receives a big hug from Ashton Lyons a student at Cherokee Bluff High School. (Hall County Sheriff’s Office)
Initially thought to be Mr. Oinkers, Ms. Daisey Mae showed up on Grand Avenue in Cornelia. Her owners were diligently looking for her. The pig traveled from Northern Banks County to root her way into the hearts of Cornelia’s neighbors. The Cornelia police got involved to help reunite the missing pet with her owners.
Mrs. Daisy Mae has been reunified with her owners. She traveled from Northern Banks County to Cornelia. (Cornelia Police Department)
Daniel Purcell and Nora Almazan experienced the ultimate in aviation – The 51st Annual Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race. This year the winner won in record time with more enthusiasts viewing than ever before. “For me, the lack of control reminded me of life. We can think we know exactly where we are going – the turns, the bumps, the obstacles – but the reality is, it’s all in how we navigate what comes our way,” Almazan said of her balloon ride.
The mural reflects the history of one of the most loved stories in the Northeast Georgia area. It is a memory of sorts, a mark of distinction, which Cornelia has carried for years—how many years? No one knows. It is a mystery that those who live in the area understand and those who visit long to know. While no one knows who Tim was or if Tink ever loved him, it symbolizes the “test of time.” Artist Audrey Davenport brought the story to life in mural form.
Bob and Ann Wescott of Toccoa were able to attend a retreat for those with disabilities and their families. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, the camp is to help recharge those who are caregivers and give those with disabilities the chance to experience something new. Joshua Wescott, who doctors said wouldn’t survive beyond two days after birth, has proven those words to be false by 30-plus years. And every day, Joshua Wescott defies what should and shouldn’t be, surrounded by the tremendous love of his family.
Expected to die soon after birth, Joshua Wescott, now 30 has defied the odds. Here he shares a special moment with his father, Bob, on their front porch in Toccoa. (Daniel Purcell/NowHabersham.com)
It may have been an extremely hot day, but in Demorest, GA, thousands turned out for the city’s Independence Day celebration. The festival featured concerts in Demorest Springs Park. The Joe Olds band opened for country singer John Berry, who took the stage in the final few hours before the city’s big fireworks display. Now Habersham’s Daniel Purcell captured the moments that marked our nation’s 248th birthday in Demorest.
An aerial view of Demorest Springs Park as crowds spread out to enjoy an evening of music by the Joe Olds Band and John Berry. (Daniel Purcell/NowHabersham.com)
McKenzie Coan earned her seventh Paralympic medal in Paris in 2024, winning silver in the 400-meter Freestyle S7. Coan competed in four events during the Paralympic Games. Coan was diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta as a baby. In her lifetime, Coan has broken over 50 bones in her body due to the disease. Her parents were told early on that McKenzie would probably never walk, talk, or sit upright. The only other case of OI that the physicians had treated, passed away.
McKenzie Coan waves the American flag after her silver-winning 400-meter freestyle race at the Paralympic Games in Paris on Monday, September 2, 2024. (McKenzie Coan/Instagram)
Chefs John and Jason Vullo know Italian food. It is entrenched in the Italian brothers, who grew up enjoying their mom’s comforting red sauces and homemade pasta. Jay and Melissa Reeder own the newest restaurant in Cornelia, Farmacia Trattoria. They have a knack for creating undeniably beautiful designs, making dining as much about the surroundings as the food. The remodeled building of Farmacia once hosted medicines for all types of ailments. For 83 years, it served as a pharmacy.
Chefs John and Jason Vullo – Italian brothers – bring unique flavors to the dining experience. (Nora Almazan/NowHaberhsam.com)
The Wall That Heals, in its 29th season, came to the University of North Georgia as a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The traveling exhibit honors the more than three million Americans who served during the Vietnam War and bears the names of those who never came home.
Retired USAF Chief Master Sergeant Roger Ware salutes the names of fellow airmen and friends killed during the Vietnam War. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)
Like most acts of kindness, the story behind the scenes of Wreaths Across America is rich in details and entrenched in character and integrity. It is a story that demonstrates the power of one: one person with one act making a difference. Daniel Purcell and Nora Almazan flew to Maine to tell what many do not know: how Wreaths Across America began, the patriotism that encompasses the entire community, and the people behind the scenes who love our country and the veterans who have sacrificed for our freedoms.
Morrill Worcester, founder of Wreaths Across America, a non-profit organization to honor veterans by placing a wreath on their graves at Christmas. (Daniel Purcell/NowHabersham.com)
Clarkesville’s downtown square will house a delicious new flavor – the authentic flavors of Cuba. Husband and wife Alberto Rodriguez and Alicia Sosa, owners of The Hush Cuban Kitchen and Bar in Clayton, now plan to bring their unique taste of Cuban cuisine to Habersham County early next year.
The Cuban Lunch Pot is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes. (Joy Purcell/NowHabersham.com)
And that is a wrap…
Now Habersham looks forward to sharing more of life in the Northeast Georgia mountains on these pages as we walk through 2025 together. Happy New Year!
Shirley Jean James, age 70, of Homer, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024.
Born on July 30, 1954, in Maysville, she was a daughter of the late L.B. Ward and Maybell Morris. Shirley was employed with Tugalo Home Health as a caregiver. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with family and her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Dennis James of 51 years; brothers, William Ward, Lewis Ward and Lawrence Ward; sister, Ann Echols.
Survivors include sons and daughter-in-law Allan James (Kyllie) of Cornelia; daughter and sons-in-law Tonya Blair (Wayne Wade) of Homer; grandchildren Tyler Blair, Zack James, and Bethany James; great-grandchildren Briggs Blair, Ryan Miller, and Paisley Adams (on the way); sisters, Jimmie Lou Brown, Peggy Boisclair, Judy Baird, Brenda Allsion, Frances Skelton, and Vickie English; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Funeral services are at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire, with Rev. Bill Manus officiating. Interment will follow in Yonah Memorial Gardens with Rev. Mike Wilson officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the funeral home.
William “Mark” Bryson, age 60, of Alto, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
Born on November 22, 1964, in Blairsville, he was a son of the late Lyle Bryson and Annie Dailey Bryson. Mark was a self-employed carpenter for a number of years and was of the Baptist faith. He will be remembered for his tremendous love of his family.
Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Jennifer Dotson Bryson; daughters and son-in-law, Miranda Dotson and Ashley Moyer (Andrew); grandchildren, Madison Walker, Chandler Walker, Alyssa Moyer, and Arianna Moyer; brother and sister-in-law, Larry Bryson (Iris); sister, Beatrice Thurman; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Funeral services are 11 am on Friday, January 3, 2025, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & Stewart with Rev. Terry Rice officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the funeral home.
Christine Mason, of Atlanta, places flowers at entrance the The Jimmy Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, in Atlanta. Formr President Jimmy Carter died Sunday at his home in Plains, Ga, at the age of 100. (AP Photo/John Bazemore )
WASHINGTON (AP) — Funeral services honoring former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at age 100, will be held in Georgia and Washington, D.C., beginning Saturday, Jan. 4, and concluding Thursday, Jan. 9.
Here’s a list of events, as provided by the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region. All times are Eastern Standard.
SATURDAY, JAN. 4
The state funeral begins with the arrival of the Carter family at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia, at 10:15 a.m. Current and former Secret Service agents will carry Carter’s remains to the hearse and walk alongside the hearse as the motorcade departs from the medical center.
The motorcade then travels through Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a brief pause in front of his family’s farm at 10:50 a.m. During the pause, the National Park Service will ring the historic farm bell 39 times.
The motorcade to Atlanta resumes at 10:55 a.m. It will stop at Georgia’s State Capitol for a moment of silence at 3 p.m. Carter’s remains will then be transported to the Carter Presidential Center for an arrival ceremony at 3:45 p.m. and service at 4 p.m. Following the service, he will lie in repose for mourners to pay their respects beginning at 7 p.m.
SUNDAY, JAN. 5-MONDAY, JAN. 6
Carter continues to lie in repose.
A flag flies at half-staff on main street in the aftermath of former President Jimmy Carter’s death, Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, in Plains, Ga. Carter died Sunday at the age of 100.(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
TUESDAY, JAN. 7
Carter departs the Carter Presidential Center at 9:30 a.m. The late president and his family then travel to Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia, at 10 a.m., where they will board Special Air Mission 39 to travel to Washington at 10:40 a.m.
Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, at 12:45 p.m., where Carter’s remains will be transferred with ceremony to the hearse. Carter and his family will then travel by motorcade at 1:15 p.m. to the U.S. Navy Memorial, where his remains will be transferred from the hearse to a horse-drawn caisson for a funeral procession to the U.S. Capitol at 2 p.m.
Upon arrival at the U.S. Capitol, Carter will be carried by military body bearers into the Rotunda, where members of Congress will pay their respects during a service at 3 p.m.
Carter will then lie in state while the military maintains a guard of honor. The public is invited to pay their respects from 7 p.m. to midnight.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 8
Carter continues to lie in state.
THURSDAY, JAN. 9
Carter departs the U.S. Capitol at 9 a.m. The motorcade then travels to Washington National Cathedral for a brief arrival ceremony at 9:30 a.m., followed by the National Funeral Service at 10 a.m.
Upon conclusion of the service, Carter and his family will travel by motorcade at 11:15 a.m. to Joint Base Andrews, where they board Special Air Mission 39 at 11:45 a.m.
Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Lawson Army Airfield on Fort Moore, Georgia, at 2 p.m., where Carter’s remains will be transferred with ceremony to the hearse. Carter and his family then travel by motorcade to Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, arriving at 3:30 p.m., followed by a private funeral service at 3:45 p.m.
After the funeral service, the late president and his family travel by motorcade at 4:45 p.m. to the Carter residence for a private interment at 5:20 p.m. The public is invited to line the motorcade route through Plains to Carter’s final resting place. Prior to interment, the U.S. Navy will conduct a missing man formation flyover in honor of Carter’s naval service and time as commander-in-chief shortly after the motorcade’s arrival at the residence.
Effingham County State Court Judge Stephen Yekel died by suicide inside his courtroom on December 31, 2024.
(Credit: Stephen Yekel election campaign via Facebook)
A state court judge in Southeast Georgia’s Effingham County has died by suicide inside the county courthouse.
The county sheriff’s office says Judge Steve Yekel was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted wound around 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Investigators believe he died late Monday or early Tuesday.
Court business has been suspended and authorities are investigating his death. Yekel recently lost reelection and Tuesday would have been his last day on the bench.
This article comes to Now Habersham in partnership with GPB News
Nelson Burns, age 85, of Alto, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
Born on June 2, 1939, in Clarkesville, he was a son of the late Willie Burns and Elizabeth “Lizzie” Phillips Burns. Nelson was employed with Mt. Vernon Mills for over 30 years and later retired from Fieldale Farms Corporation. In his spare time, he enjoyed carving walking sticks and tinkering in his shop. He was currently attending Double Springs Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Syble Shockley Burns; brothers LeRoy Burns, Oscar Burns, and Wilson Burns; and sisters Frances Wade, Nancy Cunningham, Vernie Johnson, and Eunice Shirley.
Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law LaWanda and Kevin Hulsey of Clarkesville and Rhonda and Jason Stamey of Cornelia; grandchildren Chris Hulsey and Nate Stamey; great-grandchildren Penelope Hulsey and Izzy Hulsey; sister Minnie Lee Burns of Carnesville; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Funeral services are at 11 am on Thursday, January 2, 2025, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire, with Rev. Wesley Purcell officiating. Interment will follow in Level Grove Cemetery.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Betty Dodd Frady, age 87, of Mt. Airy, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
Born on April 16, 1937, in Mt. Airy, she was a daughter of the late Clifford Dodd and Carrie Scott Dodd. Betty was a homemaker and was of the Baptist faith. She was also a champion Bingo player, who enjoyed gardening, flowers and her pets. Most of all, she loved spending time with and cooking for her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by the father of her children, Orell Hezzie “O.H.” Frady; twin brother, Benny Dodd; and sister, Ruth Jameson.
Survivors sons and daughter-in-law: Danny Frady of Toccoa, Ricky Frady of Mt. Airy, and Marty Frady (Wanda) of Clarkesville; daughters: Brenda Frady of Toccoa, Elaine Burton of Mt. Airy, and Karen McEntyre of Mt. Airy; grandchildren and spouses: Stephanie, Amanda, Carrie, Cheyenne (Thomas), Renée, Jason, Kyle (Sophia), Casey (Ashley), Brandi (Randy), Brent, Dustin (Nicole), Clay (Malorie), Dylan (Ashlyn), Clif, Chad (Angie), and Chris (Gail); 34 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. The family would also like to say a very special thank you to the caregivers of Mrs. Frady, Carrie Wilbanks, and Ruth Bowen.
Funeral services are 2 pm on Thursday, January 2, 2025, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire with Rev. Paul Jameson and Rev. Jewell Gaines officiating. Interment will follow in Chopped Oak Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 12 noon until the service hour on Thursday, at the funeral home.
Johnnie Gresham McCollum (Mac), age 96, of Clarkesville, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.
