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Rhyne Howard’s late free throw helps the Dream outlast Caitlin Clark and the Fever, 91-90

By
Michael Marot
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Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) drives on Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard (10) in the first half of a WNBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Rhyne Howard made a go-ahead free throw with 9.1 seconds left, and the Atlanta Dream withstood a thrilling fourth-quarter rally led by Caitlin Clark to beat the Indiana Fever 91-90 on Tuesday night.

Clark ignited the Fever with two of her signature deep 3-pointers early in the fourth quarter and finished with 27 points and 11 assists.

Brittney Griner scored 21 points in her first victory with the Dream (1-1), and Howard made four 3-pointers and scored 20. Brionna Jones added 19 points and 13 rebounds, and Allisha Gray had 16 points and six assists.

Aaliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell each scored 24 points for the Fever (1-1), who trailed 76-65 at the start of the fourth quarter. Boston, who also had 10 rebounds, made a free throw to give Indiana a 90-89 advantage with 21.7 seconds left — its first lead since 2-0.

After Rhyne Howard put the Dream back on top, Natasha Howard had two chances to win it in the closing seconds, but her first shot near the rim was blocked by Nia Coffey. Natasha Howard chased down the rebound but her 12-foot jumper clanked off the rim.

Another near-capacity crowd, which included two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson and 2021 NASCAR champion Kyle Larson, saw a physical contest that looked like it could turn into a rout when Atlanta pulled out to a 67-53 lead late in the third quarter.

But Indiana cut the deficit to 80-76 on Clark’s back-to-back 3s, the second from 30 feet with 7:28 to go.

The Dream led 89-80 with 4:09 to play, but Indiana’s defense dug in. Mitchell made a 3, Clark followed with a layup and then assisted on Boston’s layup, and Mitchell tied it with 1:04 left.

Up next

The teams will play again Thursday night at Atlanta.

Rookie Dylan Crews hits tiebreaking HR before leaving game as Nationals top Braves 5-3

By
Ian Nicholas Quillen
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Washington Nationals' Dylan Crews hits a solo home run against Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider during the second inning of a baseball game in Washington, Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

WASHINGTON (AP) — Rookie Dylan Crews hit a tiebreaking home run in the second inning before leaving the game in the sixth as the Washington Nationals beat the Atlanta Braves 5-3 on Tuesday night.

Crews, the second overall pick in the 2023 MLB amateur draft, hit a solo shot with two out in the second inning off Atlanta ace Spencer Strider that snapped a 3-all tie.

Crews walked in his second plate appearance in the fifth before being replaced in center field by Nasim Nuñez in the top of the sixth. Crews left the game due to a sore left side and lower back. He is expected to get an MRI on Wednesday.

Matt Olson hit his 10th home run for Atlanta, and Strider (0-2) completed 4 1/3 innings with 75 pitches in his second start, and first since straining his hamstring on April 16.

Keibert Ruiz doubled in Washington’s first run, Luis García Jr. followed with an RBI single and Strider yielded the third run of the first inning on a wild pitch.

Nathaniel Lowe’s seventh-inning sacrifice fly padded Washington’s lead.

Left-hander Mitchell Parker (4-3) allowed three runs over 5 1/3 innings, and Cole Henry, Aaron Bummer and Jorge López bridged the gap to Kyle Finnegan, who worked a perfect ninth for his 15th save.

Key moment

After Atlanta’s three-run second off Parker tied the game, Crews got the green light on Strider’s 3-0 offering with two outs. The result was a 404-foot shot that landed about halfway up the left-field lower deck.

Key stat

Crews’ solo shot completed his first set of home runs in consecutive games played. He hit a three-run shot in Sunday’s 10-4 win at Baltimore.

Up next

Atlanta rookie right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver (3-2) looks to continue his stellar season Wednesday. He has allowed eight hits and two runs — one earned — over his last three starts (19 2/3 innings) to lower his ERA to 2.33. The Nationals counter with right-hander Trevor Williams (2-5).

Sarah Elizabeth (Beth) Blalock

By
Now Habersham
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Sarah Elizabeth (Beth) Blalock, born on March 7, 1975, in Fairbanks, Alaska, peacefully passed away on May 17, 2025, at the age of 50. At the time of her passing, she resided at Cedar Creek Farm of Toccoa, Ga, a place she cherished and called home.

Beth was a dedicated emergency room nurse, a profession through which she touched countless lives with her compassion and skill. Her career was one of her most significant achievements, reflecting her deep commitment to helping others. Beyond her professional life, Beth was a beloved aunt and great-aunt, roles that she embraced with love and enthusiasm, always ready with a listening ear and laughter. Her love for animals was evident to all who knew her, as she found joy and companionship in their presence. An exceptional cook, Beth’s kitchen was often filled with the delightful aromas of her culinary creations.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Beth remember her for her quick wit and sharp intelligence. She had a way of making people laugh and think, often at the same time.

Beth leaves behind a family who loved her deeply. She is survived by her mother, Marsha Ann Prestridge, her father, John Robert Blalock, her sisters, Brittany Blalock, Rebecca(Daniel) Williams, and her nieces and nephews, Jonathan(Shay) Williams, Rachel Williams, and Matthew(Alyssa) Williams, and her great nephews Brantley, Cash, and Walker. She is also survived by her previous parter of 24 years, Morgan Wood, who also mourns her loss, cherishing the time they spent together.

A celebration of Beth’s life will be held at her family’s farm at a later date. This gathering will be a time for family and friends to come together in remembrance of the beautiful life she led and the lasting impact she made on those around her.

In these difficult times, the family kindly asks that you keep them and all who loved Beth in your thoughts and prayers. May her memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to all who knew her.

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

Habersham Crematory (678-617-2210) of Cornelia is in charge of arrangements.

Trump on Capitol Hill implores divided Republicans to unify behind his big tax cuts bill

By
Jennifer Shutt and Ashley Murray
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President Donald Trump, center, surrounded by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., and Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., speaks to reporters before a House Republican conference meeting, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

WASHINGTON (States Newsroom) — The U.S. House Republicans who have yet to rally behind the party’s “big, beautiful bill” huddled in the speaker’s office Tuesday as different factions tried to hash out agreement on taxes, Medicaid and a few other outstanding issues.

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told reporters before those meetings began there were “a number of loose ends to tie up” with deficit hawks and members from high-tax states, who are pressing to raise the state and local tax deduction, also known as SALT.

“We got some hours ahead of us to work this out, and I’m very confident we will,” Johnson said. “I’m going to have a series of meetings that will begin right now in my office to try to tie up the final loose ends. This is a 1,100-page piece of legislation. We’re down to a few provisions so we are very confident, very optimistic we can get this done and stay on our timetable.”

Johnson hopes to pass the legislation this week, though he didn’t appear to have the votes as of Tuesday afternoon.

Trump pays a House call

The smaller meetings followed a closed-door huddle between all the chamber’s GOP lawmakers and President Donald Trump earlier in the day that didn’t quite have the intended effect of immediately convincing holdouts to vote for the bill.

Trump, however, appeared to declare victory before leaving the Capitol.

“I think we have unbelievable unity. I think we’re going to get everything we want,” Trump said after the morning meeting. “And I think we’re going to have a great victory.”

House Republicans have an extremely thin 220-213 majority, requiring nearly every GOP lawmaker to support the 1,116-page package in order for it to reach the Senate.

Getting SALT-y

The reconciliation bill currently proposes lifting the SALT cap from $10,000 to $30,000 for married couples filing jointly, with a phase-down for those earning $400,000 or more, but that’s not enough for Republicans from states most impacted by the aspect of tax law.

New York Republican Rep. Nick LaLota told reporters in the early afternoon that he would likely lose reelection if he can’t secure a better SALT agreement than what was on the table.

“If I do a bad deal, I would expect my constituents to throw me out,” LaLota said. “If I did a deal at $30,000, my own mother wouldn’t vote for me.”

LaLota said Republicans leaders should prioritize a deal that benefits swing voters to avoid the party losing centrist members and possibly the House majority in the 2026 midterms.

“If we win that one issue, they’ll have a much easier November of 2026. And thus we’ll be able to keep the House and do other fiscally responsible things for the next couple of cycles here, if we get this one issue right,” LaLota said. “Conversely, you get this issue wrong — you vote for a bad bill and you keep the cap low — those folks are getting thrown out of office, we lose the majority, and then we have an open border, then we have an impeached president, and then we have all the other things that America voted against.”

LaLota said later Tuesday, after GOP leaders proposed different SALT cap numbers, that there was still “no accepted deal, yet the parties are talking a little more with an understanding of each other’s position.”

“Leadership understands better what our pain threshold is,” LaLota said. “We clearly rejected the $30,000 number that’s in the Ways and Means bill.”

He declined to say if the SALT Caucus was prepping a counteroffer for leadership, but said that staff were conducting “some research on some of the mixes of income caps and what SALT cap there would be and how much that would be valued at relative to the entire $4 trillion package.”

‘Bad faith negotiation’

Rep. Mike Lawler, a staunch supporter of raising the SALT cap for his constituents north of New York City, would not comment to reporters outside the speaker’s office about a specific dollar amount but said there’s an “improved offer” on the table.

“We’re waiting on more details. We’ll have more to say later,” Lawler said.

Speaking to Fox News in the hallway, he said, “I’m not going to sacrifice my constituents and throw them under the bus in a bad faith negotiation, which is what this has been by leadership and Jason Smith,” he said referring to the chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means.

“We need to come to an agreement. We need to provide real and lasting tax relief, and that’s what I’m fighting for, for my constituents. I respect the president … but I’ll respectfully disagree,” Lawler said.

Trump urged House Republicans Tuesday morning that raising the SALT cap benefits Democratic governors.

Conservatives still unhappy

Complicating negotiations, some far-right House Republicans remain opposed to the bill, saying it does not go far enough.

Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, who did not support the bill during a committee vote Sunday night, told States Newsroom Tuesday afternoon that his “concerns and problems still exist.”

Roy argues the massive reconciliation deal does not reduce deficit spending enough, particularly with respect to Medicaid and clean energy tax credits.

When asked whether lawmakers were approaching an agreement, Roy said “Not sure. We’re still talking. We’ve had literally like five meetings today already.”

Thune predictions

The House passing the package this week would only be one of many steps in the long, winding process.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said during a press conference Tuesday afternoon, just after Johnson spoke during a closed-door lunch, that changes to the package are expected in the upper chamber.

Thune said one of the major questions for GOP senators is whether the legislation holds “sufficient spending reforms to get us on a more sustainable fiscal path.”

“I think most of our members are in favor of a lot of the tax policy and particularly those portions of the tax policy that are stimulative, that are pro-growth, that will create greater growth in the economy,” Thune said. “But when it comes to the spending side of the equation: This is a unique moment in time and in history where we have the House and the Senate and the White House, and an opportunity to do something meaningful about government spending.”

Thune said that GOP senators would likely make “tweaks” to the tax provisions once the House sends over a package, especially around how long certain tax policy lasts.

“They have cliffs and some shorter-term timeframes when it comes to some of the tax policies,” Thune said. “We believe that permanence is the way to create economic certainty and thereby attract and incentive capital investment in this country that creates those good-paying jobs, and gets our economy growing and expanding, and generates more government revenue.”

HabCo Comm. tables traffic study for emergency exit at new Fire-EMS Headquarters

By
Jerry Neace
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The outlined property in blue is the location of the proposed Fire-EMS headquarters on GA 365 where the intersection would be located. (Source: qPublic)

The Habersham County Commission tabled a $46,500 request during Monday’s meeting to initiate a traffic engineering study and signal design for a proposed emergency exit at the future Habersham County Fire-EMS Headquarters.

The request is part of the SPLOST VII-funded Fire/EMS/EMA/911 Capital Project, that will be located on E. Mize Road, and is aimed at providing safe and efficient emergency access on to GA 365, one of the county’s most heavily traveled corridors.

According to Capital Projects Manager and Public Works Director Jerry Baggett, the study and design are required to secure approval from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for a Right-of-Way (ROW) crossing, including a northbound emergency exit and a southbound median crossing.

Scope of work

The engineering firm, Rochester and Associates will oversee all design and coordination efforts with GDOT, including the preparation of:

  • A traffic engineering study justifying the need for the emergency access using the GDOT AASHTOware Safety system.
  • An Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE), a requirement for GDOT ROW access permits.
  • A design for a push-button signal detector to allow fire trucks to safely enter and cross GA 365 during emergency responses.
  • All related signage and road markings to support the emergency signal system.

The scope of work also includes submittal and permitting through GDOT, a process that typically takes 7 to 10 months.

Baggett requested that the commission approve the study so that the engineering firm could begin work immediately on the traffic study while school was still in session this week. If not, they would have to wait until August 8 to begin the traffic study portion of the project.

Reservations

Commissioner Bruce Harkness had reservations to move forward with the study. He informed Baggett that the county was not in a hurry to get started on the headquarters project. Harkness’ fear was that if the county moved forward with the study now, that it would be out of date once they did begin the project, resulting in another large expenditure for another study.

Harkness also expressed concerns about the location. He explained that with the existing intersections of Demorest/Mt. Airy Highway, GA 197, and Double Bridge Road, all in the area, would be a nightmare. “It’s going to be a dangerous place,” he told the commission.

Commissioner Ty Akins also was concerned about the shelf life of the study since the county was not in a hurry to start the fire headquarters project. He requested Baggett to check with the state on how long the study would be good for once it’s completed.

The commission unanimously approved to table the matter. Baggett told the commissioners that he would find out how long the study would be good for once it is completed.

Residents speak out, Habersham County Commission tables controversial Christian retreat

By
Jerry Neace
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(Jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)

The Habersham County Commission voted Monday, May 19, to table a conditional use permit request for a proposed Christian retreat development on Kennedy Mountain Road in the Batesville community in North Habersham.

Property owner Jim Draper had submitted a request for a conditional use permit to construct 17 dwellings—including 11 cabins—on his 73-acre property. The proposal, intended as a faith-based retreat, drew both support and opposition from local residents during the meeting.

Planning Commission

Planning and Development Director Mike Beecham discusses the proposed retreat with the county commission. (Jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)

Prior to the public hearing, Planning and Development Director Mike Beecham summarized the request for the conditional use permit for the commission. He advised the commissioners that the planning commission had unanimously denied the request during its May 6 meeting.

Beecham informed the commission that there had been some discussion of modifying the development plan, but those plans had not been submitted to his office at this time.

At the planning commission meeting, county documents revealed that a large number of citizens spoke on the matter. Two individuals plus the applicant spoke in favor of the project. However, 11 people spoke in opposition to the proposed development.

Public hearing

During the public hearing at the county commission meeting, two individuals spoke in favor of the project, including Lew Oliver, the designer of the development. Oliver surprised commissioners and attendees by introducing a revised version of the plan that significantly reduced the number of proposed dwellings.

Lew Oliver, designer for the proposed Christian retreat, discusses the plan with county commissioners. (Habersham County livestream)

The revised version reduced the number of buildings from 17 to three. The new design showed only two cottages and a barn/carriage house. Oliver expressed that this was an attempt to reach a compromise with local residents. “ After the last meeting, there’s been some discussion, both from me and Jim Draper, with some of the residents of the area in an attempt to bring about a reasonable compromise,” he said.

However, County Attorney Ralph Taylor immediately advised the commission that it could not consider the new design, as the hearing was publicly noticed for discussion of the original application involving 17 units.

Batesville resident Joe Inglis spoke in favor of the project. He told the commission that he had been on the property and had seen the plans for the development. “I think it would be a real asset to the community up there,” Inglis said.

From his understanding during the planning commission meeting, under the current zoning, the property could be developed into a 50-lot subdivision. Inglis felt that the plan that Draper currently has would cause less impact to the area compared to the possible alternative.

After Inglis’ comments, Oliver attempted to withdraw the application altogether, but Taylor again advised that the hearing proceed as scheduled based on the publicly advertised request.

Opposition

Six residents spoke in opposition to the project, citing concerns about environmental impact, increased traffic, and potential effects on the quality of life in the rural area.

Lawrence Bridges was the first to speak in opposition to the project. He explained to the commission that he met with Draper last week about his proposed development and drove around the property. “It’s one beautiful piece of property, and it needs to stay that way,” he told the commission.

Ownership questioned

Lawrence Bridges questions the legitimacy of the application for the retreat development to the county commission. (Jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)

Bridges outlined several concerns about the proposed development. One key issue was who actually owned the property, and whether the application for the conditional use permit was legitimate. “The property is actually deeded to Goshen Branch Mountain Retreat, so I’m not really sure if the application is correct and legitimate,” he said.

He pointed out to the commission that during his conversation with Draper, he was operating as a short-term rental without a license, a matter Bridges felt needed to be addressed.

Bridges addressed Kennedy Mountain Road itself. He told the commission that the gravel road was very narrow and treacherous. Bridges explained that over the years, residents have seen increased traffic from motorcycles and jeeps passing through the area using that road to get to Lake Burton.

Environmental concerns

He also explained that the water table fluctuates greatly in that area. His concern is that waste water from septic systems for the proposed development would pool in the area where water already stands during the wet season. He fears that the waste water would end up in Goshen Creek and eventually to the Soque River.

Bridges asked the commission to agree with the recommendations from the planning commission for denial of the development.

Todd Valentini, another resident on Kennedy Mountain Road, addressed the commission in opposition to the proposed development.

Todd Valentini expresses his opposition to the Christian retreat to the county commission. (jerry Neace/NowHabersham.com)

One concern that Valentini had was the potential for more wells being drilled in the area to obtain water. He explained to the commission that several years ago, he ran his well dry just by irrigating some plants in his yard. He added that it took about six hours for it to recover.

Non-profit status

Another concern about the development he explained to the commission was the fact that it would be a Christian retreat. Having that designation could open the door for Draper to seek a non-profit charitable designation as a religious organization for the property. This designation would make the organization completely exempt from state and local property taxes.

Valentini explained that public safety and road maintenance would have to be absorbed by the county to provide those services with less revenue that the county already receives.

He expressed to the commission that he hoped they would take his comments into consideration.

Four others spoke to the commission, reiterating comments already made by Valentini and Bridges.

Resubmit-without delay

After hearing comments from both supporters and opponents, the commission voted to table the matter. Tabling the conditional use permit gives the property owner the ability to withdraw his original application and resubmit a new application to the planning commission without a delay.

Had the county commission denied the conditional use permit, the property owner would have to wait six months to resubmit the application. Beecham told the commission the soonest the revised application could come before the commission would be during its August meeting.

Stephens County High School Class of 2025 to graduate on May 23 in Toccoa

By
Nora Almazan
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Stephens County High School prepares for graduation Friday, May 23rd at 7:30 p.m. (Stephens County High School)

Stephens County High School will celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2025 on Friday, May 23, at 8 p.m., in Toccoa. The ceremony marks the culmination of the 2024–2025 academic year, which officially concludes on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Graduating seniors, along with their families and friends, will gather to commemorate this significant milestone. The event will feature speeches from school officials and student representatives, as well as the traditional presentation of diplomas.

Stephens County High School, located at 323 Indian Trail Road in Toccoa, serves students in grades 9 through 12 and is the sole high school in the Stephens County School District . The graduation ceremony is a cherished tradition, celebrating the achievements of students as they prepare to embark on their next endeavors, whether in higher education, the workforce, or military service.

SCHS marked the 2024–2025 academic year with significant accomplishments in academics, athletics, and community engagement. These milestones reflect the school’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to student success.

Academic Excellence

The school was also recognized as a 2025 Advanced Placement (AP) STEM Achievement School, a distinction awarded to schools where at least 50% of AP STEM exam scores are 3 or higher . This honor highlights the school’s dedication to providing rigorous academic opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

In mathematics, SCHS demonstrated significant progress, with a 29% increase in students scoring proficient or above in algebra concepts from the 2022–2023 to the 2023–2024 school year . This improvement earned the school recognition as a “Math Leader School” by the Georgia Department of Education.

Faculty and Staff Recognition

The school honored Claire Segars as the 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year and Brianna Thomason as the Support Employee of the Year . Their dedication and contributions have been instrumental in fostering a positive and effective learning environment.

Athletic Achievements

The Stephens County High School baseball team concluded the season with a commendable 25–11 record. The team’s performance included a strong playoff run, showcasing the athletes’ hard work and determination.

Leadership Transitions

The school bid farewell to longtime girls’ basketball coach Jerry Brown, who retired after 45 years of service. Tess Wright was appointed as the new head coach, bringing experience from her previous tenure at Lumpkin County High School .

Facility Enhancements and Safety Measures

Significant upgrades were made to the school’s facilities, including the nearing completion of the Ferman Gregory Agriculture Center. Additionally, safety enhancements were implemented, such as increased security cameras and keyless access points, funded by the Georgia Department of Education’s Safer Georgia Schools Grants .

Nutritional Support

Starting in the 2024–2025 school year, all students at SCHS received free breakfast and lunch, eliminating the need for meal applications. This initiative, supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aims to ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals.

As Stephens County High School reflects on a year of notable achievements, the administration, faculty, and students look forward to building upon this success in the coming years.

For more information about the graduation ceremony or other end-of-year events, please visit the Stephens County High School website or contact the school directly at (706) 886-6825.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stumbles over questions from Democrats on habeas corpus

By
Ariana Figueroa
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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. (Screenshot from committee webcast)

WASHINGTON (States Newsroom) — U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem Tuesday was grilled by senators on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee about funding estimates for a barrier along the southern border, as well as concerns about the Trump administration’s adherence to due process in immigration enforcement.

Noem was sharply criticized by Democrats for her answers to questions about habeas corpus, which they said she did not define correctly. “Habeas corpus is a constitutional right that the president has to be able to remove people from this country,” Noem said before she was cut off by Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, who had asked her for a definition.

“That’s incorrect,” Hassan said. “Habeas corpus is the legal principle that requires that the government provide a public reason for detaining and imprisoning people. If not for that protection, the government could simply arrest people, including American citizens, and hold them indefinitely for no reason.”

As for the cost of President Donald Trump’s border plans, even Republicans expressed doubts.

“I know the wall is (of) great symbolic value, but I think we should reassess the cost,” Republican Chair Rand Paul of Kentucky said about the House’s reconciliation package, which calls for $46 billion in border wall funding.

Noem appeared before the committee to discuss President Donald Trump’s fiscal year 2026 budget request for Congress along with the border security provisions in the reconciliation package. Congressional Republicans are using reconciliation — a special procedure that skirts the Senate’s 60-vote filibuster — to put together one bill to fulfill Trump’s priorities on border security, tax cuts, energy policy and defense.

“The border crisis is the biggest problem that was facing our country, and it was one that was imperative to fixing for our nation’s future,” Noem, the former governor of South Dakota, said. “We’re solving this crisis at a record pace, and we have delivered the most secure border in American history.”

Senate Democrats pressed Noem about DHS spending, noting that she is on track to run out of funding by mid-July, and her agency’s immigration crackdown that has led to expensive immigration enforcement.

The top Democrat on the panel, Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan, noted that detaining migrants at the Guantanamo naval base costs as much as $100,000 a day, compared to $160 a day at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility.

“I think that’s kind of outrageous,” Peters said. “I’m concerned by the staggering cost of this, and I would hope, Secretary (Noem), you could commit to providing this committee a detailed breakdown of the total cost of that operation there.”

Noem said she would get the cost breakdown for him.

Questions about habeas corpus

Several Senate Democrats, including Hassan, Andy Kim of New Jersey and Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, questioned comments from senior White House officials such as Stephen Miller, who has said discussions about suspending habeas corpus were underway.

Habeas corpus allows people in the U.S. who believe they are being unlawfully detained to petition for their release in court, and it can be used to challenge immigration detention.

The U.S. Constitution in allowing for habeas corpus to be suspended says “in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.” That provision is within Article I of the Constitution, which covers the functions of the legislative branch, or Congress.

Habeas corpus has only been suspended four times in U.S. history, during the Civil War; in almost a dozen South Carolina counties that were overrun by the Ku Klux Klan during reconstruction; in a 1905 insurrection in U.S. territories in the Philippines; and after the Pearl Harbor bombing in Hawaii.

Slotkin told Noem she was concerned by her response that she believes the president has the right to suspend habeas corpus.

“You sat here in front of all of us and swore an oath to the Constitution,” Slotkin said to Noem, adding that if the president were to suspend habeas corpus, it would be a “complete overreach.”

“It is a right that we all get, that American citizens get, that people who are in the United States legally have,” Slotkin said.

Kim asked Noem, a former member of the U.S. House, if she knew what section of the Constitution allows for the suspension of habeas corpus and which article it’s under.

Noem did not know the answer to either question.

“It’s in Article I,” Kim said. “Do you know which branch of government Article I outlines the tasks and the responsibilities for?”

Noem said Congress. She then argued former President Abraham Lincoln suspended habeas corpus.

Lincoln suspended habeas corpus between Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia because of the Civil War and initially did so without congressional approval. He later called Congress back into session to get congressional approval for it.

Reality show with competing immigrants

Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut asked Noem if DHS was considering hosting a reality show that would make immigrants compete for citizenship, according to multiple media reports.

Noem vehemently denied that DHS was looking at it.

“There may have been something submitted somewhere along the line, because there are proposals pitched to the department, but me and my executive team have no knowledge of a reality show, and it’s not under consideration,” she said.

Kim pressed Noem about the recent confrontation between House lawmakers and immigration officials at Delaney Hall in his home state of New Jersey.

Three New Jersey Democratic members – Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman, LaMonica McIver and Rob Menendez — were in Newark protesting the reopening of Delaney Hall, an immigrant detention center.

The mayor of Newark, Ras Baraka, who was also protesting, was arrested.

The Trump administration Monday levied two felony charges against one of those members, McIver, accusing her of assaulting officers during Baraka’s arrest.

Kim said he was concerned about the incident and asked Noem if she was aware that members of Congress do not need prior notice to conduct oversight at DHS facilities.

Members of Congress are allowed to conduct oversight visits at any DHS facility that detains immigrants, without prior notice, under provisions in an appropriations law.

Noem accused the three House members of “storming” the facility.

“We give tours when members of Congress ask for it, we just ask that they not be politicized,” she said.

Prep for big sporting events

Florida GOP Sen. Rick Scott and Rand Paul asked Noem about how prepared DHS is for providing security to big sporting events such as the Super Bowl and soccer’s World Cup.

Scott wanted to know how security preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which includes games in Miami, are going.

Miami is one of 11 U.S. cities hosting the World Cup. The others are Atlanta; Boston; Dallas; Houston; Kansas City, Missouri; Los Angeles; the San Francisco Bay area; the New York and New Jersey metropolitan area; Philadelphia; and Seattle.

“We are working diligently with FIFA and other entities to ensure that cities and states have the assets that they need. This will be an unprecedented world event,” Noem said. “It will be taking place in three different countries and many cities across our country, but also Mexico and Canada, and it will take place over a month.”

The World Cup, which first began in the 1930s, is typically held in one country every four years. The last time two countries hosted the month-long event was in 2002, with Japan and South Korea.

Paul asked Noem if the NFL or FIFA, international soccer’s governing body, ever paid DHS for its security measures.

Noem said no.

“Here’s my point,” Paul said. “The NFL makes billions of dollars. These people ought to pay. I mean, it’s ridiculous that the average taxpayer could never afford to go to an NFL Super Bowl, (and) has got to pay for their security.”

David Allen Wood

By
Now Habersham
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David Allen Wood, age 63 of Clarkesville, passed away Monday, May 19, 2025.

Born in Gainesville on October 26, 1961, David was the son of the late Floyd T. and Genell Dodd Wood. He was a Hatchery Supervisor for Fieldale for over 40 years. David will fondly be remembered as an outdoorsman and a simple man with a gentle soul, who loved his family. He was a member of Hollywood Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, David is preceded in death by his wife Debbie Dover Wood, son Kyle Taylor wood and niece Kendra Dover.

Survivors include sisters Debra Wheeler (Chester) of Demorest, Sharon Wood of Clarkesville, Angie Gay (Mark) of Statesboro and Barbara Hefner of Mt. Airy, brothers in law Eddie Dover of Clarkesville, Steve “Booter” Dover (Nicole) of Clarkesville, Andy Dover of Reidsville, nieces and nephews, Kari Clofine (Matt), Frank Hefner (Amy), Sabrina Hernandez, Suzanne Banks (Marian), Dianne Allen, Heather Cote (Roger), Jennifer Lomax, Brela Dover, Kasedy Dover, Tanner Dover, Corbett Dover, Laura Dover and Drew Dover,

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM, Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Hollywood Baptist Church with Pastor Chuck Johnson, officiating. Interment will follow the service in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday, prior to the service, beginning at 11:00 AM.

An online guestbook is available for the family by visiting www.hillsidememorialchapel.com.

Arrangements are in the care and professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel & Gardens, Clarkesville, Georgia.

Whimsical creativity center stage at Volunteers for Literacy Dec-a-Duck Contest

By
Nora Almazan
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Volunteers for Literacy of Habersham County dropped nearly 3,000 rubber ducks into the Soque River at Pitts Park during the 14th annual VFL Duck Race on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The first three to cross the finish line won cash prizes for their ticket holders. (Carly McCurry/NowHabersham.com)

The 2025 Volunteers for Literacy Dec-a-Ducks Contest brought a delightful splash of imagination to Habersham County, as community groups, businesses, and schools competed to transform plain duck statues into dazzling literary and movie-inspired masterpieces. This annual event, a cherished local tradition, highlights creativity while supporting literacy programs in the area.

This year’s entries were nothing short of spectacular, with participants drawing inspiration from beloved books, movies, fairy tales, and more. Judges and the public had their work cut out for them choosing winners among such fantastic designs.

Top Honors and Crowd Favorites

Volunteers for Literacy Dec-a-Ducks Hazel Grove Elementary’s “Wizard of Oz” First Place Best All Around. (VFL)

Hazel Grove Elementary stole the show, earning First Place Best All Around with their enchanting duck transformation of The Wizard of Oz. Their detailed and whimsical entry wowed both judges and attendees alike.

Clarkesville Veterinary Hospital claimed the coveted First Place People’s Choice with their spooky and humorous Beetlejuice-themed duck, cleverly named “Betelgeuse.” The design also earned 2nd Place Best Adult Book/Movie, proving to be a crowd-pleaser and a critical favorite.

My Georgia Credit Union’s “Poppy,” inspired by a children’s fairy tale, took home 1st Place in the Children’s Fairy Tale/Book/Movie category and 2nd Place People’s Choice, demonstrating the community’s love for charm and storytelling.

Creative Excellence Across Categories
Fairview Elementary School’s “Violet Beauregarde,” a vibrant nod to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, took 3rd Place People’s Choice and 2nd Place Most Artistic, showing off the students’ flair for design and color.

Lowe’s made a splash with “Bill,” earning 1st Place Best Business-Themed Duck, impressing judges with a clever nod to the tools of their trade.

Sutton Tire’s “Waddles Your Hometown Tire Duck” received 1st Place Best Novice DAD (Duck Artist Designer), a special recognition for newcomers that left a lasting impression.

Morito Scovill’s action-packed duck “Quacker Chan’s Day at the Mountain Laurel Festival” delighted attendees and earned 1st Place Most Creative, a tribute to both martial arts and local culture.

Renew Dental’s pun-tastic “Cluck Norris” delivered knockout artistry, earning 1st Place Most Artistic, while NE GA Chiropractic Spine Center brought classic literature to life with “Mr. Sherlock Holmes,” securing 1st Place Adult Book/Movie.

Finally, Peach State Federal Credit Union dazzled with “Elphie Duck,” a nod to Wicked, and was honored with the prestigious 1st Place Director’s Choice award.

The Deco Duck Contest continues to be a testament to the power of community, creativity, and a shared love for stories. Through colorful designs and imaginative themes, each duck entry serves not only as a work of art but also as a reminder of the importance of literacy in building vibrant, informed communities. Congratulations to all the winners and participants who made this year’s contest unforgettable!

Clarkesville Veterinary Hospital – “Betelgeuse” First Place People’s Choice (VFL)

Hazel Grove Elementary’s “Wizard of Oz” First Place Best All Around

Clarkesville Veterinary Hospital – “Betelgeuse” First Place People’s Choice; 2nd Place Best Adult Book/Movie

My Georgia Credit Union – “Poppy” 1st Place Children’s Fairy Tale/Book/Movie: 2nd Place People’s Choice

Fairview Elementary School “Violet Beauregarde” 3rd Place People’s Choice; 2nd Place Most Artistic

Lowe’s “Bill” First Place Best Business-Themed

Sutton Tire – “Waddles Your Hometown Tire Duck” First Place Best Novice DAD
Morito Scovill – “Quacker Chan’s Day at the Mountain Laurel Festival” First Place Most Creative

Renew Dental “Cluck Norris” 1st Place Most Artistic

NE GA Chiropractic Spine Center – “Mr. Sherlock Holmes” FirstPlace Adult Book/Movie

Peach State Federal Credit Union “Elphie Duck” 1st Place Director’s Choice

Clarkesville parking lot cameras to be installed in 30-60 days

By
Brian Wellmeier
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Downtown Clarkesville (Daniel Purcell/NowHabersham.com)

Cameras aimed at enforcing Clarkesville’s new downtown parking policy are expected to be installed within the next 30 to 60 days, according to city officials.

The policy requires all 26 businesses currently operating on the downtown square — as well as any future applicants — to acknowledge that the 88 parking spaces on the square are reserved strictly for “customers only.” Business owners, employees, and tenants are expected to utilize one of the available off-square spots, Monday through Saturday, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., as a condition of receiving a business license.

To help enforce the policy, the city plans to install three cameras on the square at a cost of $9,000. These cameras will monitor vehicles parked for extended periods. City Manager Keith Dickerson said on Monday, May 19, that installation will likely happen within the next two months, although the exact locations for the cameras have yet to be finalized.

An additional camera will be installed at Mary Street Park to enhance security.

Repeat violations could result in fines ranging from $50 to $100 after multiple warnings, though the city’s ability to actually require individuals to pay those citations is questionable.

The parking rules were adopted during an April 7 city council work session as a policy rather than an ordinance, meaning the city has limited authority to enforce them through legal channels. If a citation were challenged in court, city officials acknowledge there would be little ability to compel payment.

“As much as anything, we just want to keep people that work (on the square) not taking all the parking spots,” Dickerson said. “That was agreed upon by most of the business owners…a lot of the business owners bought into it, so we figured we’d give it a shot. We think the cameras are good, if for nothing else, security.”

Footage from the cameras will be stored for 14 days, with the most recent seven days housed in a city system and the previous seven days stored in a digital cloud. The video will be accessible for periodic review by city staff.

“We’re not going to sit there and monitor it all day,” Dickerson said. “It will be available for review periodically – but I don’t think anybody wants to sit there and watch the parking lot all day.”

The policy, spearheaded by Councilman Brad Coppedge, also includes a provision requiring downtown retailers to report violations by submitting vehicle descriptions and photos to city officials.

“The monitoring is strictly a function of what we agreed to originally – if the retailers saw something, they would report something,” Coppedge said in April. “Then, it’s up to the city to manage it from there.”

Toccoa OKs decreased 2026 budget

By
Brian Wellmeier
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Toccoa City Commission (Brian Wellmeier/NowHabersham.com)

Toccoa’s City Commission unanimously adopted the fiscal year 2026 budget during its regular meeting on Monday, May 19, following a second reading and a public hearing.

No residents spoke during the hearing.

The approved budget totals $66.4 million, reflecting a 5.6% decrease from the previous year. Despite the overall reduction, funding for public safety saw notable increases. The police department’s budget rose to cover training, education, and canine-related expenses, while the fire department received a $130,000 boost to support professional services, communication needs, and the purchase of new equipment.

“The decrease is primarily due to decreases in our water/wastewater fund,” City Manager Fredda Wheeler explained after the meeting. “We’re nearing the end of completing some projects.”

The budget includes a 3% cost of living pay raise for all city employees. The city employs around 185 people, according to Wheeler.

Police and fire services continue to be among the city’s largest expenditures. On the revenue side, Toccoa relies heavily on its utilities – including gas, water, sewer and garbage services – for funding.

“The city of Toccoa continues to make infrastructure and facility improvements in our community…and maintain a high level of service for our citizens and the customers,” Wheeler said during the hearing.

Now Habersham has reached out to Wheeler for specific figures related to utility revenues.

Tax, utility rates remain steady

City officials confirmed that the current millage rate of 6.0 mills will remain unchanged. An official vote is expected in August, after Stephens County provides updated property tax digest figures. A mill equals $1 per $1,000 of taxable property value, with assessments in Toccoa based on 40% of a property’s value. Last year, the city collected around $1 million in property taxes.

Residents will also avoid any increase in utility rates this year, according to city officials. “There is no proposed millage rate increase and no utility rate increases are proposed,” Wheeler said.

Toccoa Mayor Terry Carter lauded efforts by city employees in drafting the newly-approved budget Monday.

“All in all, it’s a good budget and I appreciate all of your hard work on that,” Carter said.

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