The year we are about to finish includes just about anything and everything from a hurricane to a presidential election and all in between.
At Now Habersham we’d like to highlight some of the lighter side stories and remind you of our favorite community moments of 2024:
January
Where in the world is Madeline McClurg?
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.
February
From Italy to Sautee: Evan Windham helps others reach personal goals
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.”
March
“He is my favorite person”: Student reacts to seeing former SRO
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.
April
Cornelia Police solve the case of the missing pig
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.
May
More than just a balloon ride – more than a festival
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.
Cornelia’s first mural celebrates a mystery and community spirit
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.
June
Toccoa family gets recharged at Joni & Friends retreat for disabled
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.
July
PHOTO GALLERY: Demorest’s Glorious Fourth
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.
August
Paralympic swimmer does not live by others’ expectations
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.
September
The chefs of Farmacia Trattoria bring Italy to Cornelia
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.
October
The Wall that Heals welcomes veterans home and honors those lost
The Wall That Heals; A truly moving experience
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.
November
The power of one: the story behind Wreaths Across America
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.
December
Clayton business owners to bring Cuban restaurant to Clarkesville
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.
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!
