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Local emergency personnel urge residents to prepare now for upcoming winter storm

By
Patrick Fargason
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Habersham County's Emergency Management Team held an internal weather briefing Wednesday afternoon at the county's E911 center to discuss the impending winter weather. (photo submitted by Ashlyn Brady)

CLARKESVILLE, Ga. – Habersham County Emergency Services is urging residents to prepare now for a potentially dangerous winter storm expected to move into the area early Saturday and linger into Monday afternoon.

Habersham County’s  Emergency Management team held an internal weather briefing this afternoon at the county’s E911 center and said current forecasts call for a mix of snow, sleet and ice beginning around 7 a.m. Saturday and continuing through about 1 p.m. Monday, though the county cautioned that winter weather is unpredictable and conditions may change. Residents are encouraged to secure essential supplies now and plan to stay off the roads unless travel is required for an emergency.

Habersham EMS warned that ice accumulation could create extremely hazardous driving conditions and lead to roadway blockages caused by downed trees, power lines or weather-related debris. Residents were urged to stock food, water, medications, batteries and flashlights; fuel vehicles; and ensure alternative heating options are available. Those who heat with wood should confirm they have an adequate supply.

County officials also advised residents who rely on home oxygen or electrically powered medical equipment to make arrangements now, including ensuring oxygen cylinders are fully stocked. Prescription medication refills should be obtained as soon as possible.

“Our priority is the safety of our community,” said Jeff Adams, chief of Habersham County Emergency Services. “We are here to take care of our citizens, and we want everyone to take steps now to be prepared, remain cautious, and stay safe during this event.”

Residents were reminded to assume all downed power lines are energized and deadly, to avoid approaching them, and to report their locations immediately to dispatch.

Habersham Schools update

With the worst of the weather not coming until the weekend, Habersham County school officials said they are monitoring the forecast but will wait to make any decisions about potential closures.

Patrick Franklin, superintendent of Habersham County Schools, told Now Habersham the district will not decide on school operations until Friday at the earliest, noting the storm is expected to primarily impact the area over the weekend. Any changes to school operations will be communicated through the Habersham Schools First Alert app and the district’s official communication channels.

White County weather briefing

In neighboring White County, officials echoed similar concerns following a weather briefing with the National Weather Service.

White County Public Safety said there is moderate confidence in significant winter weather impacts this weekend, with freezing rain and ice posing the primary threat. Snow and sleet are also possible, particularly in far North Georgia. Strong winds of 20 to 30 mph, with higher gusts, could increase the risk of falling trees and widespread power outages.

White County officials said first impacts could begin Friday night, with the greatest impacts expected Saturday into early Sunday. Very cold temperatures are expected to follow, with Monday’s high near 30 degrees and overnight lows potentially dropping into the single digits, which could prolong hazardous conditions.

Because of White County’s mountainous terrain, steep roadways and rural areas—especially in higher elevations—some locations could become difficult or impossible to access during the storm. Officials warned that emergency responders may experience delays reaching certain areas if conditions deteriorate.

County and city agencies are planning heightened staffing, staging response equipment and preparing for extended operations, White County Public Safety said. Residents were urged to prepare for the possibility of extended power outages and limited travel lasting several days.

Officials in both counties strongly discouraged nonessential travel once winter weather begins, noting that keeping roads clear is critical for emergency response and public safety operations. Residents are urged to monitor official county communication channels, emergency alerts and local media for updates as the forecast evolves.

Winter storm sends Northeast Georgia shoppers rushing for supplies

By
Joshua M. Peck
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The line for propane stretched around the building at the ACE Hardware in Cornelia Wednesday. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — As forecasts called for dangerous winter weather this weekend, Now Habersham found shoppers pouring into hardware stores and big-box retailers across Northeast Georgia on Wednesday, driving sales far above normal and quickly emptying shelves of storm essentials.

At Habersham Hardware and Home Center on Ga. 115, assistant manager Jeff Byrd told Now Habersham the store was already sold out of several high-demand items by Wednesday afternoon.

“We’re sold out of a lot of stuff. People aren’t exactly panicking, but they’re sure coming in,” Byrd said, estimating customer traffic was running about 40 percent higher than usual. Shoppers were buying propane tanks, heaters, generators, gas cans, shovels and ice melt.

Byrd said an emergency supply truck was scheduled to arrive Friday morning to replenish depleted inventory.

“We’ve got lines of traffic here,” he said. “We’ve got both cash registers running. Everybody’s helping everybody.”

The Walmart in Cornelia was unusually busy for a random Wednesday. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

At the Walmart store, front-end manager Maria Owenby told Now Habersham the store was also seeing heavy foot traffic, though shelves remained stocked.

“We’re seeing high volume this afternoon, but we still have plenty of staples in stock,” Owenby said. “We have milk, bread, dry goods, canned goods. People are buying snow shovels and ice-melting solutions, but there are still plenty of those left as well.”

Calls from Now Habersham to the manager’s desk at the Walmart store were not returned as of press time.

Demand for generators was especially strong in Cornelia. Jeremy Gattis, store manager at the Lowes, told Now Habersham the store received a major shipment Wednesday morning and was preparing for another overnight delivery.

“I just got a truck of 200 generators this morning, and I should have another truck of 200 tonight for anybody who is looking for a generator with a potential ice storm,” Gattis said.

Gattis said the store sold about 120 generators the previous day and briefly sold out, prompting customers to wait inside the store for hours until a delivery arrived late Wednesday night.

“There were people waiting for about six hours in the store until my truck got here,” he said. “There’s a huge demand in the population that are seeking generators.”

Gattis said he opened the store early Wednesday after customers gathered outside before normal business hours.

“I had to open the store early yesterday because there were people standing outside waiting on generators,” he said.

An Ingles manager in Clarkesville referred Now Habersham’s request for comment to the company’s corporate headquarters in Asheville, N.C. Messages left Thursday afternoon for the chain’s chief financial officer and spokesperson had not been returned.

Generators being wheeled out of the ACE Hardware in Cornelia. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

In White County, demand appeared even stronger. Graham Rogers, owner of Rogers Ace Hardware, told Now Habersham his store was experiencing one of its busiest days of the season.

“It’s crazy, and crazy is an understatement,” Rogers said. “They’re buying everything — sleds, ice melt, frost covers, batteries, flashlights, Mountain Dew, water. If we had propane, I could sell it out, but we’re already sold out.”

Rogers estimated sales were running about 80 percent above normal as residents prepared for potential snow and ice across Northeast Georgia.

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Local emergency personnel urge residents to prepare now for upcoming winter storm

State economist says slow wage growth, higher inflation likely to continue

By
Jill Nolin
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Robert Buschman, the state economist, speaks to lawmakers Tuesday. (Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder)

(Georgia Recorder) – Georgia’s economy is showing signs of strength, but persistent inflation and slow job and wage growth have left consumers feeling sour about their finances.

And the state economist, Robert Buschman, told lawmakers Tuesday that he expects that slow growth and higher inflation to continue.

Buschman’s presentation to legislative budget writers put charts and graphs to the unease lawmakers are hearing from their constituents back home as affordability concerns take center stage under the Gold Dome.

“Reluctance by businesses to hire suggests fewer opportunities to change jobs for better pay, and that those between jobs or entering the workforce will remain unemployed for longer, dragging on consumer confidence,” Buschman said.

“Consumers also still feel squeezed by inflation. Incomes have not really kept up for the average worker. So consumer sentiment is weak,” he said.

Inflation had been falling from the recent highs seen in 2022 but has crept back up to 2.7%.

Buschman highlighted some bright spots for Georgia’s economy, like its low unemployment rate. But he said there are also worry-inducing factors at play, like the tariffs that have become a central element of President Donald Trump’s economic policy in his second term in office. Trump has issued new tariff threats in recent days in his pursuit of Greenland.

The bulk of the cost of these tariffs fall on consumers and businesses, depending on much of the cost companies are willing to absorb to avoid losing sales in the short term, Buschman said.

“As time passes, businesses, both domestic and foreign, have to pass more of the cost on to consumers to remain profitable, so we’ll see continuing upward pressure on consumer prices,” he said.

There’s also the risk of other countries placing retaliatory tariffs on American exports.

“Large exporting states like Georgia are the ones harmed the most by that,” Buschman said, noting that Georgia is the 12th largest export state.

Buschman’s presentation was part of the kick-off for this week’s budget hearings at the state Capitol. The hearings continue Wednesday morning with agency heads who oversee social and health care services in Georgia.

Gov. Brian Kemp talks about his budget proposals at a budget hearing Tuesday. (Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder)

The state economist’s outlook also provides context for the words of caution Gov. Brian Kemp has been weaving into his public comments on the budget. As he wraps up his last year in office, the governor has been touting his administration’s conservative approach to the budget.

“It has allowed us to store up strategic reserves for the next economic downturn, ensuring you all or future legislators won’t be forced to cut critical services for Georgians when, not if, the next economic crisis hits,” Kemp said to lawmakers Tuesday.

Kemp has proposed accelerating another incremental income tax rate decrease at a time when some legislative leaders are pushing for more aggressive steps toward eliminating it entirely. He has proposed cutting the rate to 4.99%, down from today’s 5.19%, and built his budget proposals on the assumption those revenues will be foregone. The already-planned cuts would happen three years faster than originally planned.

He’s also proposing another round of bonus tax refunds for this year, paid for by funds from the state’s $14.6 billion reserves. With those payments to taxpayers and one-time infrastructure spending boosts, the state is still set to have about $10 billion left in reserves when Kemp leaves office next January.

Buschman, who was appointed by Kemp, expressed skepticism about talk of eliminating the state’s income tax. A special Senate committee unveiled a plan earlier this month that would end the tax by 2032.

“I think what the governor has been doing in lowering income tax rates slowly over time, as we were able to evaluate how much of our surpluses were structural surpluses, is the better way to go,” he said.

Kemp told reporters Tuesday that he is optimistic about Georgia’s ability to weather any economic storms that may await.

“We have been cautiously budgeting since we came out of the pandemic, because nobody really knew what this was going to look like,” he said. “So we’re prepared to deal with what’s going on in the world right now.”

It was also announced Tuesday that Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp would lead an economic development mission this week to Belgium and the United Kingdom. He will be there at a time of rising tensions between the Trump administration and America’s allies.

“We cannot rest on our laurels. We’ve got to finish strong. We’ve got to keep finding people that want to grow jobs in our state so, God forbid, if somebody does lose their job, they’ve got other opportunities that pay just as well or better,” he said.

Trump announces ‘framework of a future deal’ on Greenland, relents on 8-nation tariffs

By
Jennifer Shutt
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President Donald Trump addresses the audience during the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (States Newsroom) — President Donald Trump announced in a social media post Wednesday that he and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte brokered a possible agreement on Greenland, though Trump provided few details or a timeline.

Trump’s comments came just hours after he took his case for acquiring the Arctic island to the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, urging European leaders to begin negotiations while appearing to rule out a military takeover.

A few hours later, Trump wrote after meeting one-on-one with Rutte that the two “have formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region.”

“This solution, if consummated, will be a great one for the United States of America, and all NATO Nations,” Trump wrote. “Based upon this understanding, I will not be imposing the Tariffs that were scheduled to go into effect on February 1st.”

Trump threatened over the weekend to place a 10% tariff on goods coming into the United States from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom if they continued to oppose his attempts to acquire Greenland. Trump wrote he would increase the tariffs to 25% in June if a deal hadn’t been brokered before then.

Trump wrote in his most recent social media post that further negotiations about Greenland will be handled by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and several other officials.

“Additional discussions are being held concerning The Golden Dome as it pertains to Greenland,” Trump wrote, referring to a possible missile defense system. “Further information will be made available as discussions progress.”

‘I don’t have to use force’

Trump insisted during the 75-minute, wide-ranging speech he gave a few hours before his announcement that Greenland represents “a core national security interest” that “would greatly enhance the security of the entire” NATO alliance if it were fully controlled by the United States.

“I’m seeking immediate negotiations to once again discuss the acquisition of Greenland by the United States,” Trump said. “Just as we have acquired many other territories throughout our history, as many of the European nations have … there’s nothing wrong with it.”

Trump signaled he will likely not use the U.S. military to take over Greenland, saying, “I don’t have to use force. I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force.”

But he indicated any European country that objects to the U.S. making Greenland part of the country will face repercussions.

“You can say ‘yes,’ and we will be very appreciative, or you can say ‘no’ and we will remember,” Trump said.

Greenland would become the site of a missile defense system that Trump refers to as the Golden Dome, which he said could “keep our very energetic and dangerous potential enemies at bay” if the island becomes part of the United States.

Trump bashes NATO

Trump repeatedly criticized the other NATO countries during his speech, falsely claiming more than once the United States has never benefited from the military alliance formed following World War II.

“What we have gotten out of NATO is nothing, except to protect Europe from the Soviet Union and now Russia,” Trump said. “I mean, we’ve helped them for so many years.”

The United States is the only country in the history of the alliance to invoke Article 5, which says that an attack against one is an attack against all.

That led NATO countries to send their military members to fight alongside U.S. troops in Afghanistan following the 2001 terrorist attacks. More than 1,000 of those NATO troops died, according to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte sought to reassure Trump of NATO’s security commitment to all of its member countries later in the day, when the two met one-on-one during the forum.

“Let me tell you, they will. And they did in Afghanistan, as you know,” Rutte said, according to audio of the exchange shared by the White House pool.

Rutte noted that for “every two Americans who paid the ultimate price, there was one soldier from another NATO country” or Australia.

“So you can be assured, absolutely, if ever the U.S. will be under attack, your allies will be with you. Absolutely. There’s an absolute guarantee,” Rutte said. “I really want to tell you this, because this is important. It pains me if you think it is not.”

Trump told reporters ahead of his meeting with Rutte that he “could see” paying a price for Greenland, though he did not elaborate. He said he had “no idea” when he might speak directly with leaders of Denmark about trying to acquire Greenland. He said he believes Rutte is “frankly more important.”

Investors and single-family homes

Trump focused some of his speech in Davos on domestic issues, talking briefly about an executive order he signed this week focused on the availability of housing within the United States.

“I have signed an executive order banning large institutional investors from buying single-family homes. It’s just not fair to the public. They’re not able to buy a house,” Trump said. “And I’m calling on Congress to pass that ban into permanent law, and I think they will.”

Trump said he wanted to take steps to help Americans afford homes, but that he didn’t want those actions to reduce the value of homes people already own. He didn’t elaborate on how that would work.

“I am very protective of people that already own a house, of which we have millions and millions and millions. And because we have had such a good run, the house values have gone up tremendously, and these people have become wealthy. They weren’t wealthy. They become wealthy because of their house,” he said. “And every time you make it more and more and more affordable for somebody to buy a house cheaply, you’re actually hurting the value of those houses, obviously, because the one thing works in tandem with the other.”

Trump said if he wanted to, he could “really crush the housing market” and decrease housing prices, though he didn’t say how exactly he would go about doing that if he wanted to.

Trump said he’s ordered “government-backed institutions to purchase up to $200 billion in mortgage bonds,” and that he expects to announce a new Federal Reserve chairman “in the not-too-distant future,” who he believes will decrease interest rates. Trump has been feuding over interest rates with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, whose term as chair ends in May although Powell can remain as a governor.

Trump also called on Congress to approve legislation that would prevent credit card companies from hiking their interest rates above 10% for one year, saying that would help people save some money that they could use for buying a house.

Gov. Kemp tells Georgians to secure food and gas before forecasted winter storm

By
Sarah Kallis
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Gov. Brian Kemp speaks about the state's response to Hurricane Idalia on August 30, 2023. (Amanda Andrews / GPB)

Gov. Brian Kemp is warning Georgians to prepare for a significant winter storm this weekend.

“Take this time to secure food, fill up on gas, and ensure you’re prepared for any potential loss of power,” he said in a social media post Wednesday.

Kemp says state agencies are communicating with federal partners and “preparing for the worst but hoping for the best.”

Gov. Brian Kemp is warning Georgians to prepare for a significant winter storm this weekend.

“Take this time to secure food, fill up on gas, and ensure you’re prepared for any potential loss of power,” he said in a social media post Wednesday.

Kemp says state agencies are communicating with federal partners and “preparing for the worst but hoping for the best.”

“Global models are painting a concerning picture of what this weekend could look like, with an increasingly strong signal for ice storm potential across North Georgia and portions of central Georgia,” according to the National Weather Service’s Atlanta office.

If significant accumulations of ice strike metro Atlanta, it could be a problem through the weekend since low temperatures early Monday are expected to be around 22 degrees in Atlanta. The city’s high temperature on Monday is forecast to be around 35 degrees.

Travel is a major concern, as Southern states have less equipment to remove snow and ice from roads, and extremely cold temperatures expected after the storm could prevent ice from melting for several days. In Michigan, more than 100 vehicles crashed into each other or slid off an interstate southwest of Grand Rapids on Monday.

The storm is also expected to impact many of the nation’s major hub airports, including those in Dallas; Atlanta; Memphis, Tennessee; and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Two arrested on meth trafficking charges after Big A Road traffic stop in Stephens County

By
Staff Report
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(NowHabersham.com)

TOCCOA, Ga. – Two men were arrested early Monday after deputies discovered a trafficking amount of methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Big A Road, according to the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office.

A deputy with the sheriff’s office Uniform Patrol Division stopped a white Ford F-150 around 1 a.m. Jan. 19 for a traffic violation. The driver was identified as Brandon McFarlin, 41, of Carnesville, and the passenger as Daniel Umberhant, 41, of Toccoa.

During a roadside interview, McFarlin consented to a search of the vehicle, authorities said. Deputies located a container holding a crystal-like substance suspected to be methamphetamine. Both men were detained, and officers with the Toccoa Police Department assisted at the scene.

A continued search uncovered two large plastic bags containing suspected methamphetamine, pills, a digital scale and a smoking device. The suspected methamphetamine weighed a total of 46.5 grams, investigators said.

McFarlin and Umberhant were arrested and transported to the Stephens County Jail without incident. Each faces charges of trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, prescription medication not in original container, and possession of drug-related objects. McFarlin also received a written warning. A Stephens County magistrate judge denied bond for both men.

Rusty Fulbright praised the deputies’ work and thanked Toccoa police for their assistance.

“By going beyond the traffic stop and applying strong investigative skills, our deputies prevented illegal narcotics from remaining on the streets,” Fulbright said. “I am proud of the work our deputies are putting in to help protect and serve our community.”

Anyone with information about illegal drug activity in Stephens County is asked to call the sheriff’s office tip line at (706) 886-7048, submit a tip through the department’s mobile app, or use the GBI’s See Something, Send Something app.

Jack Chancellor

By
Obituaries
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Bennie Jack Chancellor, born January 23, 1945, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Phenix City, Alabama, on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 2:00 pm EST (1:00 pm CST) with Rev. Ken Chancellor officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home.

He leaves a legacy defined by unwavering devotion to his family and extraordinary accomplishment in his professional life. He was the cherished husband of Patricia “Trece” McBride Chancellor, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage, a partnership grounded in deep love and loyalty.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Margaret Chancellor and his sister, Jo Ann Wade.

Jack was a lifelong resident of Phenix City, Alabama, and a proud graduate of Central High School Class of 1963.

Jack was a devoted and proud father to Bennie “Ben” Jack Chancellor, Jr., Chance Woodrow Chancellor, and Jo Anna Parker Funderburk (Eric).

Mr. Chancellor was the owner of Jack’s Quick Shop in Phenix City for decades. As a professional bass fisherman, Jack achieved the highest honor in his sport when he won the 1985 Bassmaster Classic, securing his place in fishing history. He was also the inventor of the Do-Nothing Worm, a groundbreaking lure that forever changed the sport of bass fishing. His innovation, determination, and competitive spirit left a lasting impact on the fishing community.

Jack was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Ethan Chancellor, Ella Chancellor, Banks Chancellor, Chase Chancellor, Chance Chancellor (Kiley), Chelsea Chancellor Caldwell (Chris), Chandler Chancellor (Haley), Hannah Parker Rathbun (Dillon), Grace Parker, Spencer Parker, and Miller Parker. He also had three bonus grandchildren, Meredith Funderburk Robles (Kyle), Jack Funderburk and Maggie Funderburk. He was also blessed with many great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. Above all else, Jack treasured time spent with his family and found his greatest happiness in their love and togetherness.

Jack will be remembered for his strength, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama who were instrumental in helping the family in this difficult time. Donations may be sent to 7020 Moon Road, Columbus, Georgia, 31909.

Brenda Joyce East

By
Obituaries
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Brenda Joyce East, 85, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born Brenda Joyce Johnson on November 26, 1940, in Columbus, Georgia, she was a lifelong resident of the area, where she was raised and built deep roots. Later in life, Brenda and her husband Dan moved to Gulf Breeze, Florida. Subsequently, they embraced adventure, spending several years living aboard their beautiful Albin Trawler, the S.S. Don-Ki-Dan-Dy, cruising to many ports-of-call along the Florida Gulf Coast. They also resided for a time at Lake Harding, and eventually settled down back in Columbus.

Brenda was united in marriage to Daniel J. East Jr. (Dan) on June 28, 1958, in Columbus, Georgia. She is survived by her devoted husband; her loving children: Donna Thornell (Mike), Kim Redmon (Danny), Danny East (Tina), and Seletha Crosby (Clyde), all of Columbus, Georgia; her cherished grandchildren: Daniel (Dan) East, Lee Harmon, Wendy Hetzel, Rachel Pound, Lindsey (Linzy) Linn, Kaila Nicolson, and DJ Redmon; and her great-grandchildren: Baylee, Evan, Asher, Lowry, and—just a few days ago—baby Levi. Brenda was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Louverne Johnson; her sister, Janice Ann Mobley; and her grandmother, Anner Lee Ellis.

Brenda was a member of Jordan High School’s Class of 1959 and later attended Columbus State University, where she studied and pursued her passions in business and accounting. Professionally, she worked alongside her husband, handling accounting for the first-generation, family-owned wholesale grocery companies Tasty Foods and Tasty Distributing. After their extended adventure cruising the Gulf, she served as a medical clerk at Piedmont Family Practice.

Brenda had a zest for life, deeply enjoying boating, fishing, traveling, and sports cars. She was also a great gardener and a meticulous decorator, especially during Christmas when she lovingly displayed her angels and nativities.

In addition to her roles in the family-owned business, Brenda was deeply committed to her family, ensuring every holiday and special occasion was celebrated with as many loved ones as possible.

Brenda grew up attending North Highland AOG Church with her parents. After marriage, she became an active member of Cascade Hills Baptist Church alongside her immediate family and, later, many of her grandchildren. She also volunteered and spent time with the members of the Columbus-Fort Benning Shrine Club with her husband, and was a very faithful supporter of his involvement with several other organizations, the most locally impactful being the Valley Rescue Mission.

Funeral services will be held at Striffler-Hamby, Macon Road, Columbus, GA, on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Rev. Ken Dawson officiating. The family will receive guests and visitors immediately after the service. Entombment will be in the Chapel of the Pines Mausoleum at Parkhill Cemetery at a later time, privately with family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Valley Rescue Mission, or Cascade Hills Church.

If there is anything in heaven that needs a special touch, she is there, likely gently nudging a few things around to lend her unique flair to perfection. She was many things to many people—each sharing unique experiences with her from their own perspectives, and as those cherished memories are shared among all she touched, they come together to paint a beautiful portrait of her life as a whole.

John 11:25-26 (NIV) – “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?“

Jeremy Dustin Cantrell

By
Now Habersham
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Jeremy Dustin Cantrell
Jeremy Dustin Cantrell, age 46, of Demorest, Georgia, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026. Jeremy was a deeply loved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose life revolved around his children and family.
From the moment you met him, Jeremy made an impression. A true sports enthusiast, he cheered loudly for the Georgia Bulldogs and the North Carolina Tar Heels, and win or lose, he was always full of energy, ready with a joke, and always bringing laughter to those around him. Jeremy never took life too seriously, and his laugh was contagious—anyone who spent time with him couldn’t help but smile.
Jeremy had an enormous heart and a generosity that knew no bounds. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need and never thought twice about helping a friend or stranger. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome—he never met a stranger, and by the end of the first conversation, you were friends for life. His presence brought light, laughter, and joy to all who knew him.
Being a father was Jeremy’s greatest pride and joy. The bond he shared with his children was unbreakable, built on guidance, protection, laughter, and unconditional love. He took every opportunity to be involved in their lives and loved them fiercely, leaving a legacy of devotion that will never be forgotten.
There will truly never be another like Jeremy Cantrell. Those who knew him will remember his humor, his generosity, his laughter, and the way he always showed up for the people he loved. Though his passing leaves a hole in our hearts, the love, joy, and light he shared will continue to shine through the lives he touched.
Jeremy is survived by his mother, Vickie Carrol Cantrell; his brothers, Jason Reynolds Cantrell and Jeffery Blake Cantrell; his three beloved children, Chloe Skye Cantrell, Jerry Brett Cantrell, and Breckynn Kylar Cantrell, all of Demorest. He is preceded in death by his father, Jerry Ray Cantrell and nephew, Sidney Ray Cantrell. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family who will forever treasure his memory.
Funeral services are 1 pm on Friday, January 23, 2026, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire, with Rev. Scott Westmoreland officiating. Interment will follow in the Macedonia Cemetery at Leaf Community Church.
The family will receive friends from 2-4 & 6-8 pm on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the funeral home.
1 John 5:11: “And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son”.
An online guest registry is available here.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668), is in charge of arrangements.

LaGrange animal shelter partners with River Dragons for free adoptions

By
Robbie Watson
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LaGrange animal shelter partners with River Dragons for free adoptions (City of LaGrange/Facebook)
The City of LaGrange Animal Shelter is partnering with the Columbus River Dragons and Door Specialties, Inc. to host free dog and puppy adoptions at the Columbus River Dragons’ hockey game on Saturday, January 24th.
Before the hockey game, the community is invited to meet adoptable dogs and puppies at 4:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Courtyard between the Civic Center and the Ice Rink. The pre-adoption process will take place before the game, and adopted dogs will be picked up after the game in the same courtyard area, where final paperwork will be completed. Door Specialties, Inc will fully cover all adoption fees.
“The Columbus River Dragons are grateful to partner with LaGrange Animal Shelter and Door Specialties, Inc. to make this night possible. The LaGrange Animal Shelter has been wonderful to work with in every aspect,” said Columbus River Dragons Business Operations Manager Mac Hill. “We can’t thank Door Specialties enough for covering these adoption fees. It makes me so happy to work with great people and pups.”
“We are incredibly grateful for our strong partnership with the Columbus River Dragons,” said LaGrange Animal Services Supervisor Chris Bussey. “We’re thrilled that their management team reached out to Door Specialties to generously cover the adoption costs for the animals joining us at the game. Each animal will be spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped, ready to find their forever home.”
WHO: City of LaGrange Animal Shelter, Columbus River Dragons Hockey Team, and Door Specialties, Inc.
WHAT: Columbus River Dragons Animal Shelter Night. Free dog and puppy adoptions at the Columbus River Dragons’ hockey game on Saturday, January 24th, all adoption fees fully covered by Door Specialties, Inc.
WHEN: Saturday, January 24th. Adoption event starts at 4:00 p.m. Puck drops at 7:05 p.m.
WHERE: Columbus Civic Center Courtyard, located between the Civic Center and the Ice Rink, 400 4th Street, Columbus, GA 31901.
This event may move indoors if needed, weather permitting.

Habersham commissioners honor Ken Schubring for decades of service

By
Patrick Fargason
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The Habersham Board of Commissioners honored Ken Schubring for his years of public service to the county. (Hazel Cording/Now Habersham)

CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — The Habersham County Board of Commissioners recognized Ken Schubring Tuesday night for decades of leadership and service to Habersham County and Northeast Georgia.

Commissioner Ty Akins read a formal recognition honoring Schubring’s long-standing involvement with local, regional and statewide boards, citing what he described as a record of service defined by integrity, steady leadership and commitment to the community.

“Ken’s record of service spans decades, countless hours, and an extraordinary number of organizations,” Akins read. “In every role he has held, Ken has brought integrity, steady leadership, and a sincere desire to see Habersham County and the broader region succeed.”

Schubring was recognized for his service on the Habersham County Airport Commission from 2016 through 2023, where he held leadership roles including chairman and vice chairman during periods of growth and transition for the county’s airport.

He also represented Habersham County on the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission from 2013 through 2025, serving as secretary, vice chairman and chairman of the council. In that role, Schubring worked with local governments across Northeast Georgia on regional planning, transportation and economic development issues.

During his tenure with the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission, Schubring received multiple honors, including Appointed Official of the Year in 2016, the Chairman’s Award in 2022, and Council Member of the Year in 2025.

In addition to his public service, Akins noted Schubring’s professional career as corporate facilities manager with Fieldale Farms Corporation, describing the company as a vital part of Georgia’s agricultural economy and an important local employer.

Schubring’s civic involvement also includes long-term service with the Habersham County Rotary Club, where he has served multiple terms as president and in district leadership roles, as well as service on boards such as the Habersham County United Way, Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia, Habersham Partners for Growth and the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce.

Akins also highlighted Schubring’s personal commitment to county employees, noting that Schubring has attended every county employee appreciation luncheon since the program began, donating food and volunteering his time to cook and serve meals.

“It is a simple but meaningful act that speaks volumes about his humility and appreciation for public service at every level,” Akins read.

The commission closed the recognition by thanking Schubring for his years of service and leadership, crediting his work with strengthening Habersham County and the surrounding region.

Baldwin City Council advances waste contract, tables ethics ordinance

By
Patrick Fargason
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Baldwin City Council (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

BALDWIN, Ga. — The Baldwin City Council approved a new solid waste collection contract, advanced several major water and wastewater infrastructure projects and tabled a proposed ethics ordinance during a lengthy meeting Tuesday that also included extensive discussion of city operations and governance.

Council unanimously approved entering into a new solid waste agreement with Waste Away, canceling the city’s existing contract with FCS. City Manager Tiera Morrison said Waste Away matched the city’s current rate while expanding services.

“Waste Away provides the lowest cost per cart at $14, compared to the $14 that FCS is currently charging,” Morrison said. “They will also provide large-item and limb pickup at no additional cost.”

According to Morrison, bulk item and limb collection will be conducted on the first Friday of each month.

Ethics ordinance tabled

Former councilwoman Alice Venter used her public comment time to discuss a tabled ethics ordinance. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

Council also tabled a proposed ethics ordinance which came prior to public comment from former Baldwin councilwoman Alice Venter, who was a leading opponent of the Red Apple Corridor annexation in Cornelia during public hearings held back in December.

Venter signed up to speak during Tuesday’s meeting, which included first readings related to the Cook Construction annexation. However, when she addressed the council, she did not comment on the annexation issue, instead focusing exclusively on the ethics ordinance — which had already been tabled before public comment began.

“I want to begin by saying something important. Ethics matter, transparency matters, public trust matters,” Venter said.

Venter criticized the draft ordinance as overly broad, arguing it risked regulating speech and political disagreement rather than focusing on conflicts of interest, personal gain or misuse of office.

“Good ethics laws focus on clear conflicts of interest, personal gain and misuse of office,” she said. “Bad ethics laws regulate speech, dissent and political disagreement.”

She raised concerns about language referencing “appearance” and “public confidence,” as well as provisions governing social media and communications by elected officials, warning they could have a chilling effect on public discourse.

“When the same body that debates policy also receives complaints, decides guilt and determines punishment, ethics enforcement becomes political enforcement,” Venter said.
Council took no action on the ordinance following public comment.

Water and wastewater update

City Engineer Fletcher Holiday updates the council on the city’s water and wastewater facilities. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

City Engineer Fletcher Holliday delivered a detailed report on Baldwin’s water and wastewater treatment facilities, expanding on information previously provided to council in December.

Holliday said the city’s water treatment plant, which has a capacity of 4 million gallons per day and a 3 million-gallon-per-day withdrawal permit from the Chattahoochee River, treated more than 900 million gallons of water in 2025, with average daily use just under 2.5 million gallons.

While average usage has remained steady, Holliday said peak daily demand has increased, rising from about 3.3 million gallons per day in 2024 to nearly 3.6 million gallons per day in 2025.

The city’s wastewater treatment facility processed approximately 143 million gallons in 2025, with an average daily flow of about 391,000 gallons, well below its permitted capacity of 800,000 gallons per day. Holliday said reduced rainfall contributed to lower flows compared to 2024.

Holliday outlined ongoing and future capital projects, including rehabilitation of water plant filters, replacement of an inoperable raw water pump, upgrades to wastewater aerators and clarifiers, and construction of a new solids handling building to replace an outdated belt press system.

He said both facilities are currently operating in compliance with state permits.

WWTF rebid approved

City attorney Bubba Samuels outlines the council’s proposed charter amendment. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

Council approved, without objection, authorization to rebid the wastewater treatment facility solids handling building project.

Holliday said the original bid, issued in mid-2024, exceeded available funding and was rejected by the previous council. Since then, the city has secured additional funding, including grant assistance, bringing the total project cost to approximately $2.5 million.

“The project is now funded, so we have to rebid it,” Holliday said. “This action allows us to put it back out to bid and return with a recommendation.”

Charter amendment advances

Council also approved the first reading of a proposed charter amendment intended to give the city greater flexibility in setting its meeting schedule.

City Attorney Bubba Samuels said the amendment would eliminate the need to revise the city charter each time council changes meeting dates or frequency, while still requiring at least one meeting per month and compliance with the Georgia Open Meetings Act.

Samuels said council has discussed returning to a two-meetings-per-month structure, typically consisting of a work session and a regular council meeting. A second reading and final approval will be required before the amendment takes effect.

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