Tough night for our Habersham Central Raiders as they fell to Jackson County 53-6. But one game doesn’t define a season — and this has been a great season. The Raiders finish the regular schedule 7-3 overall and 5-1 in the region, one of the strongest records we’ve seen in recent years.
This team has shown heart, grit, and growth all season long. Raider Nation is proud of you — and we’re still behind you.
Drop a comment below to show your support for the team and coaching staff. 💙🧡
Go Raiders!
The Habersham Central Raiders faced a tough matchup Friday night, falling to the Jackson County Panthers by a score of 53-6. It was a difficult game from the opening whistle, as Jackson County’s offense came out fast and their defense managed to limit Habersham’s opportunities to move the ball downfield. Despite the score, the Raiders continued to show grit, playing with determination and character through all four quarters.
While this loss closes out the regular season on a challenging note, it does not overshadow what has been one of Habersham Central’s strongest years in recent memory. The Raiders finish the regular season with an overall record of 7-3 and 5-1 in region play—a testament to months of hard work, discipline, and steady improvement. Under the leadership of Coach Benji Harrison, the team delivered exciting wins, strong defensive performances, and a balanced offensive identity that brought energy to Raider Stadium each week.
Coach Harrison told his team “that one game doesn’t define who we are and to not forget what they’ve accomplished and what they have in front of them. Don’t lose hope. Tonight was tough.”
As the Raiders look ahead, there is plenty to be proud of and plenty to build on. This season included memorable victories, rising standout players, and a team culture defined by commitment, resilience, and heart. The student body, Raider Nation, and the entire Habersham community have rallied behind this team, filling stands and showing unwavering support.
Though tonight’s game didn’t go the way the Raiders hoped, the story of this season is still one of accomplishment and progress. The team has shown what it means to play with pride for Habersham County—and that momentum doesn’t end here.
The playoffs start in two weeks and The Raiders will waste no time in preparing for whomever they will face. This year, the Raiders will have home field advantage thanks to their record in region play. According to WCON color analyst Mark Ausburn, this is the first time the Raiders will not have to travel to South Georgia since 2007. That’s a significant advantage and there’s no doubt that the home stands will be jam-packed with fans ready to cheer our Raiders on to victory.
Go Raiders.
Halloween is a night filled with excitement, costumes, and community fun — but it’s also a time when safety should be top priority. As families head out for trick-or-treating and fall events around Habersham County, we’re reminding everyone to be alert and look out for one another. Children will be walking along neighborhoods and streets, often in low light, and drivers may find it harder to see them. If you’re driving this evening, please slow down, avoid distractions, and be prepared for sudden stops. Neighborhoods, churches, and community centers will be busy, so patience and caution will go a long way in keeping everyone safe.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to keep a close eye on younger trick-or-treaters and make sure costumes are easy to see — reflective tape, glow sticks, or small flashlights can make a big difference. Remind children to use sidewalks where available, cross streets at corners or crosswalks, and never approach unfamiliar houses or cars. Teens celebrating tonight should stay in groups and communicate their plans clearly.
For those passing out candy, leave your porch lights on if you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters, and make sure your walkways are clear of cords, decorations, and other trip hazards. And for everyone participating in festive fun tonight — don’t forget to be kind, be patient, and look after your neighbors.
Let’s make this a safe, fun, and memorable Halloween in Habersham County. Happy Halloween! 🎃
The Habersham Central Raiders are closing out an impressive season, entering their final regular season game with a 7–2 overall record and an undefeated 5–0 run in region play. It’s been a year defined by grit, teamwork, and steady determination — and Raiders fans across the county are proud to cheer them on.
From explosive plays on offense to disciplined defense and strong leadership on the sidelines, this team has shown what it means to play with heart. Week after week, the Raiders have taken the field with focus and confidence, earning hard-fought wins and building momentum at exactly the right time.
As they step into their last regular season matchup, community spirit is running high. Students, alumni, families, and longtime Raider supporters are invited to show up loud, proud, and ready to cheer. Whether you’ll be in the stands, listening on the radio, or wearing blue and orange around town — your support matters.
Tomorrow night, the Habersham Central Raiders (7–2) will face one of their toughest challenges of the season as they take on the Jackson County Panthers (8–1) in a matchup that has major region implications and plenty of excitement surrounding it. Both teams have shown strength, discipline, and the ability to finish games, setting the stage for a competitive showdown under the lights. With Habersham’s momentum and Jackson County’s proven record, fans can expect a hard-fought battle from start to finish — the kind of game where every drive, every stop, and every play matters.
The Raiders have already punched their ticket to the playoffs. No matter how the game ends tomorrow night, the Raiders will have home field advantage. Naturally, Raiders fans want the regular season to end with a victory of the Panthers.
This season also marks the strongest statistical performance of Head Coach Benji Harrison’s tenure at Habersham Central. Not only have the Raiders posted their best win–loss record under his leadership, but they have also dominated on the scoreboard, outscoring opponents 283 to 136 over the course of the season. That point differential reflects a balanced team firing on all cylinders — a confident offense capable of putting points on the board, and a disciplined defense that consistently holds its ground.
This team has shown what Habersham pride looks like.
Let’s carry that same energy into this final game — and beyond.
Go Raiders!
Finish strong — we’re behind you all the way.
Demorest, GA – The City of Demorest is set to consider a meaningful item on its upcoming agenda: a resolution to formally accept the donation of the historic “Demorest Bell” from Piedmont University. The resolution, titled “A Resolution of the Mayor and Council of the City of Demorest to Accept the Donation of the ‘Demorest Bell’ from Piedmont University,” would officially transfer the bell into the city’s care. The bell is a historic and significant symbol of Demorest’s heritage. By accepting this donation, city leaders signal their commitment to preserving local history and ensuring the bell remains accessible to residents and future generations. The council will discuss the resolution and potential next steps for the bell’s placement and display.
Hidden away in a building in Demorest is a bell whose story stretches back more than 130 years — a gift from the city’s namesake, William Jennings Demorest, presented to the Demorest Methodist Episcopal Church in 1891 during Mr. Demorest’s visit to the town. Though simple in appearance, the bell represents the spirit, ideals, and optimism with which the city was founded.
The town, named was named in honor of William Jennings Demorest – a publisher, businessman, and nationally known advocate for the temperance movement. Mr. Demorest was a candidate in the 1892 United States presidential election, running as the nominee of the Prohibition Party on a platform focused on temperance and social reform. When the town of Demorest was established in the late 19th century, it was envisioned as a model community — a place of strong values, education, and civic pride. The City of Demorest was established in 1889 as a planned community developed by the Demorest Home, Mining & Improvement Company.
To symbolize that vision, Mr. Demorest donated a cast-metal bell to the town in 1891. Inscribed on the bell are the words “Presented to the M. E. Church Demorest, Ga. by W. Jennings Demorest, From Contest to Conquest.”
When the Demorest Methodist Episcopal Church North closed in 1897, the bell was relocated to the Demorest Methodist Church South, where it continued to serve the local congregation. In July 1947, the Demorest Congregational Church and the Demorest Methodist Church united to form the Demorest Federated Church, and at that time the bell was placed into storage. It remained there for decades until May 1983, when it was finally installed on the church grounds through the dedicated efforts of local historian Sarah Fenner. A plaque was added to honor her parents, John Marvin and Ione White Gillespie, reading:
“W. Jennings Demorest Bell
Mounted in memory of
J. Marvin & Ione W. Gillespie.”
In December of 2024, Habersham History launched its brand-new Habersham History Minute series, as part of its ongoing efforts to preserve the rich history of Habersham County. The first episode told the story of how the Demorest bell (and an American flag) were donated by Mr. Demorest in 1891.
On June 7, 2025, high winds brought down a large tree near the Demorest Bell, striking the display and knocking the historic bell from its pedestal. While the bell itself does not appear to be severely damaged, the supporting structure was broken in the impact. At this time, city officials have secured the precious bell in an undisclosed location.
Piedmont University has announced that it is prepared to donate the historic Demorest Bell to the City of Demorest, ensuring the landmark remains a visible and accessible part of the community’s shared heritage. The bell holds deep significance not only for the campus, but for the city as a whole, and that returning ownership to the municipality will help preserve its legacy for future generations. The donation would allow the bell to be formally recognized as a civic treasure and incorporated into ongoing historic preservation efforts within the city.
While it is not currently known where the public will be able to see the bell again, or when, the City of Demorest will be carefully considering the most appropriate and meaningful location for the Demorest Bell to be permanently displayed. City leaders have emphasized the importance of placing the bell somewhere accessible to the public, respectful of its history, and reflective of its role as a symbol of the community’s founding. Several potential sites will be evaluated, with attention to visibility, security, and historical context. The goal is to ensure the bell continues to serve as a point of pride and connection for both residents and visitors for generations to come.
The Habersham County Chamber of Commerce has officially opened the search for its next president, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the organization following recent leadership changes.
In a statement released this week, Chamber Board Chairman announced that the job description has now been posted and the board is actively accepting applications.
“We are pleased to announce that we have posted the attached job description today and are now accepting applications.
We will diligently work through the interview and hiring process to identify the right candidate to serve the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce.
Thank you again for your engagement and support of the Chamber.”
The Chamber plays a central role in supporting local business development, coordinating community events, advocating for economic growth, and building connections among business owners, civic partners, and local governments throughout Habersham County.
The search comes at a time of continued growth across the region, with new commercial development along the Highway 365 corridor, downtown revitalization projects in Cornelia and Clarkesville, and ongoing business expansion in communities from Baldwin to Tallulah Falls. The Chamber is seeking a leader who can guide these efforts while strengthening collaboration and engagement among members.
The posted position outlines experience in:
The ideal candidate will be someone who can connect local businesses, energize community partnerships, and serve as a positive public voice for the county’s economic future.
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the job description and submit materials directly to the Chamber according to the guidelines listed in the posting.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the Board will conduct interviews over the coming weeks.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to the Habersham Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Chairman at tommy.thurmond@hemc.coop. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
As the search progresses, the Chamber has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local businesses and maintaining stability during the transition.
Habersham News will continue to follow updates as the hiring process progresses.
For more information, or to request the official job posting, please contact the Chamber office.
October 29, 2025, Clarkesville, Georgia – Habersham County Animal Care and Control (HCACC) receives conformation of positive rabies case.
On Thursday October 23rd ,2025 Habersham County Animal Care and Control responded to a call made to the Department from Sunshine Circle in Cornelia, GA in reference to bite call involving a resident who was bitten by a stray cat. Animal Control Officer Roper responded to the call and was able to locate and impound the cat.
The cat was displaying clinical signs of rabies and was immediately humanely euthanized and Habersham County Animal Control submitted the specimen to the CDC State Laboratory for rabies testing via Habersham Environmental Health. Results that confirmed a positive specimen were obtained Tuesday afternoon.
This marks the fourth Positive Case of Rabies in Habersham this calendar year.
“This is a reminder to check that your pet’s vaccinations are current. Dogs and cats who receive an initial rabies vaccination are not considered immunized until 28 days after the vaccine has been administered, therefore it is strongly recommended that any animal newly vaccinated or those too young to receive the vaccine (less than three months) not be left outdoors unattended.” Says Madi Nix HCACC Director.
“We cannot stress enough that free feeding feral cats is detrimental to the animals and the community. Unmanaged colonies spread disease among our furry friends and also put our human population at risk”
In addition to vaccinating your pets for rabies, there are several things residents can do to protect themselves and their pets:
To learn more about HCACC, visit https://www.habershamga.com/animal-control.cfm.
To learn more about the rabies virus visit https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/index.html
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About HCACC
The Habersham County Department of Animal Care & Control (HCACC) promotes and protects public safety and animal care through sheltering, pet placement, education, and animal law enforcement. Our mission is to enforce state laws and county ordinances pertaining to animal control and management; to promote the health, safety, and welfare of all animals in Habersham County; to promote compassion towards animals; to promote safe human-animal interactions; and to help educate the community in responsible pet ownership.
promote safe human-animal interactions; and to help educate the community in responsible pet ownership.
About the Center for Disease Control
CDC works 24/7 to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack, CDC fights disease and supports communities and citizens to do the same.
CDC increases the health security of our nation. As the nation’s health protection agency, CDC saves lives and protects people from health threats. To accomplish our mission, CDC conducts critical science and provides health information that protects our nation against expensive and dangerous health threats and responds when these arise.
As many Habersham County families prepare for reductions or loss of SNAP benefits, one long-standing local food program is stepping up to help.
For more than two decades, the Open Door Food Ministry—operated through The Torch Worship Center—has provided groceries to families across Habersham County and surrounding areas. The ministry began nearly 25 years ago with a simple mission: to make sure no one in the community goes hungry.
“We don’t check to see whether someone is losing SNAP benefits or not,” said Pastor Mike Thomas, Outreach and Missions Pastor at The Torch. “If someone needs food, they’re welcome. We’re here for single parents, families, seniors, anyone. If you’re struggling, just come. That’s the whole point.”
Volunteers line up to distribute food at the Open Door Food Ministry, Photo Courtesy The Torch
The ministry offers two types of assistance:
During these events, volunteers distribute approximately 40,000 pounds of food to families in a single morning. Participants remain in their vehicles while volunteers load food directly into cars.
Located at the former United Way building:
The flexible hours are designed so that anyone working shift jobs can still receive help.
Anyone.
The ministry does not limit services by county or income level.
“We serve Habersham and at least five surrounding counties,” Thomas said. “Whoever shows up, we minister to. That’s our approach.”
With the expected rise in food insecurity, community support is needed now more than ever.
100% of donated funds go directly to purchasing food.
Visit thetorch.net and mark your contribution for the Food Ministry, or mail/deliver donations to:
The Torch Worship Center
800 Cannon Bridge Road
Demorest, GA 30535
Preferred items:
“If your family will eat it, another family will too,” said Thomas.
Drop-off locations:
No sign-up required.
Just show up:
Groups are welcome.
Volunteers regularly include families, schools, churches, businesses, and students from Habersham Central and Piedmont University.
For questions or more information:
706-778-4063
The Open Door Food Ministry is preparing for what may be one of the largest increases in food needs in recent years. Still, Pastor Thomas remains hopeful.
“Every month we see people helping people,” he said. “This community shows up. And with everything going on, that matters more now than ever.”
Clarkesville, GA — For 57 remarkable years, Joan Church has been a steady, cheerful presence—solving problems, guiding residents, and supporting colleagues with a work ethic that never wavered and a smile that never faded.
To honor her incredible 57 years of service to Habersham County, there will be a retirement party held at the Ruby Fullbright Aquatic Center on November 7, 2025 from 2pm – 4pm. The party is open to the public.
Photo of Joan Church Courtesy of Josh Peck, Now Habersham
Come congratulate Ms. Church on a job well-done and wish her well in her retirement!
Date: November 7, 2025
Time: 2pm – 4pm
Location: Ruby Fullbright Aquatic Center
Election season is here, but so far, only about 3% of registered voters in Habersham County have cast their ballots. That means thousands of voices still haven’t been heard — and your voice matters.
Every election, local or national, shapes the future of our community. From city councils to county initiatives, the choices we make directly affect our schools, roads, taxes, and quality of life. Too often, decisions are made by a small percentage of voters — but that can change if more of us show up.
Voting is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to make a difference. It’s your chance to speak up for what you believe in and support the candidates and issues that reflect your values. Even if you think your single vote won’t matter — history shows it often does. Many local elections are decided by just a handful of ballots.
| Voted | Registered | % Voted | |
| Alto | 8 | 356 | 2.2% |
| Baldwin | 53 | 1,400 | 3.8% |
| Clarkesville | 79 | 1,391 | 5.7% |
| Cornelia | 68 | 2,487 | 2.7% |
| Demorest | 53 | 1,108 | 4.8% |
| Mt. Airy | 30 | 866 | 3.5% |
| Tallulah Falls | 1 | 70 | 1.4% |
| County Votes* | 877 | 23,346 | 3.8% |
| Total | 292 | 7,678 | 3.8% |
* County votes represent those living outside of the city limits
Habersham News created a video for each mayoral candidate in Baldwin as well as one for each city council candidate in Demorest.
To view the Baldwin Mayoral Candidates, click here to view their videos.
To view the Demorest City Council Candidates, click here to view their videos.
If you haven’t voted yet, now’s the time. Mark your calendar, make a plan, and remind your friends and family to do the same. Let’s show what Habersham can do when we all get involved.
Every vote counts — and this election, yours could make all the difference.
Demorest, GA – At 1:15 p.m. Saturday, October 25, 2025, deputies from the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched along with units from Habersham County Emergency Services and Demorest Fire Department to a wreck with injuries on Cannon Bridge Road (Ga. 105) at Cap Fry Road outside Demorest. Three Habersham County Emergency Services ambulances transported patients to Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville.
Pictured above is the Ford F-150 that was involved in the deadly crash on GA 105/Cannon Bridge Road on Saturday, October 25, 2025. (Rob Moore/Habersham County Sheriff’s Office)
At approximately 1:40 PM, GSP troopers arrived at the scene. A 2017 Dodge Journey was attempting to turn left on Cap Fry Road when it was struck in the rear by a 2006 Ford F150. The driver of the Dodge, Arlen R. Garrett, 71, from Cleveland, was transported to NGMC Gainesville, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The Georgia State Patrol Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team is assisting with the investigation.
Habersham County residents now have a meaningful way to celebrate the courage and sacrifice of local veterans. Habersham History is inviting families, friends, and community members to submit names, photographs, and service information to be displayed on the organization’s Virtual Wall of Honor, located at habershamhistory.org/veterans.
The Virtual Wall of Honor serves as a growing digital memorial, preserving the stories of servicemen and servicewomen with ties to Habersham County. The tribute spans every branch of the U.S. military and includes veterans from past and present conflicts.
“We created the Virtual Wall of Honor so future generations will know the names, faces, and stories of the heroes who defended our country,” the organization shared. “It is our responsibility—and our privilege—to ensure their legacy lives on.”
Anyone wishing to honor a veteran can submit an entry through the website. Visitors may send an email to veterans@habershamhistory.org:
Both deceased and living veterans are welcome to be included. There is no cost to participate, and submissions may be made at any time.
For many families, the Virtual Wall of Honor is more than a list of names—it is a place of remembrance, gratitude, and storytelling. The digital format ensures that veterans from Habersham County are recognized not just on Veterans Day or Memorial Day, but year-round.
Each entry adds to a historic archive that will grow in value for decades to come, providing a resource for students, researchers, families, and future generations who want to learn about the county’s military heritage.
Residents can view the Virtual Wall of Honor or submit an entry at:
habershamhistory.org/veterans
Habersham History encourages everyone in the community to take a few moments to browse the names, remember the sacrifices, and help honor the men and women who served our nation.
Habersham County residents now have a chance to help shape the future of dining in our community. Habersham News has launched a new Restaurant Interest Survey to learn what types of restaurants—national chains, local eateries, coffee shops, bakeries, or specialty cuisines—residents would most like to see open in the area.
With continued growth across the county, community input can play an important role in guiding future business development. The survey asks residents about their dining habits, preferred cuisines, favorite restaurant brands, and which parts of the county they believe would benefit most from new dining options.
“Whether you’d love to see a steakhouse, a family-friendly diner, or a new spot for coffee and dessert, we want to hear from you,” said Habersham News. “This is a chance for the community to speak with one voice about what we’re missing and what we’re hungry for.”
The survey takes just two minutes to complete and is open to all Habersham County residents. Results will be shared with readers and local leaders in the coming weeks.
Alternatlively, you can scan the QR code on our promotional flyer now circulating on social media.
The survey will be open two weeks from Sunday, October 26 – Sunday, November 9th. The results of the survey will be summarized and shared with the community as well as downtown development authorities, the Chamber of Commerce and Partnership Habersham.
History has shown that it is difficult to convince large chain restaurants to open a new restaurant in smaller towns. However, at Habersham News, we truly believe that past failed attempts shouldn’t discourage us from trying again. Habersham County has great potential! The question that we hope this survey will answer is what people would like to see in the near future.
Follow us on Facebook for more news. facebook.com/habershamnews
The Lady Indians completed their dream season with a GIAA State Runner-Up finish, marking the best showing at state in school history. TFS competed Saturday morning at Middle Georgia State College in Macon. FULL RESULTS
Tallulah was well ahead of 3rd-place St. Anne-Pacelli, and behind heavy favorites Westminster of Augusta. Junior Olivia Henderson was third individually with a 20:36 time, becoming the first Lady Indian all-time to place better than 10th individually. She was 19th in last year’s race.
Avery Keim placed 15th (22:07), Carol Pinho was 18th (22:13 PR), and Naomi Russo was 27th (22:56). Mary Kate Ball came in 42nd, Eliza Culp was 52nd, and Carsyn Griffis 68th to round out the TFS lineup.
The prior best overall finish for Tallulah Falls’ girls team came in each of the past two seasons, when the team placed seventh both times.
The boys meanwhile were represented by both juniors Teagan Penland and Ryan Anderson, who qualified for state individually with top-10 finishes at region. In the state meet, Penland came in 9th with a 17:00, and Anderson was 34th with an 18:58.
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) project to replace a bridge over Hazel Creek — located on Central Avenue in Demorest — is moving forward, though not without some delays and anticipated timeline adjustments. The project, originally slated to be completed by January 2025, is almost a year behind.
The bridge was named in honor of the late Johnny Mize ten years ago, in July 2015. Mize grew up in Demorest and became a baseball phenom, playing for the St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants and the New York Yankees. Known as “The Big Cat” because of the poise in his stance when he was at bat and his ease in the field, Mize was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981.
In March of 2025, DOT reported that the new span construction was approximately 20 %–25 % complete. The original plan was to erect a temporary diversion bridge, shift traffic onto that, then remove and replace the existing bridge. That temporary structure has been removed and now, the work has shifted to the southbound lanes. Following the shift, removal of the old bridge will begin and the full replacement work will continue, though at this time there is no known timeline for the project to be completed.
Replacing the Johnny Mize Bridge will enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and ensure long-term structural integrity of an important crossing in our region. Given its location adjacent to the downtown Demorest area and near other key infrastructure, the project is one of the more significant local GDOT investments in recent years.
While 2026 is the target date for full completion, the public should expect phased openings and traffic shifts beforehand. As the project progresses from current partial completion to major milestones — like the traffic shift onto the new span — residents and commuters will need updates regarding lane closures or detours.
We will continue to monitor the project and provide updates as major milestones are reached or if the timeline changes. For now, motorists should plan accordingly and stay alert to signage and temporary traffic patterns in the construction zone.
Downtown Cornelia is receiving a splash of vibrant color and a fresh dose of artistic energy: the renowned muralist Cheyenne Renee has touched down to paint her 37th mural, right here in Cornelia, as part of her ambitious nationwide initiative, the 50 in 50 Project — a goal to create 50 murals in 50 states.
From her hometown of Covington, Virginia, Cheyenne Renee has set out on a mission:
“I’m really interested in learning more about economic development and tourism in small communities … highlighting small towns and communities in each state.”
With the 50 in 50 project, each mural is not just decoration — it’s a statement of place, identity, and community pride. Her website states the ambition clearly: “On a mission to paint 50 murals in 50 states by the end of 2025.”
While Cheyenne’s exact design details for the Cornelia piece are still being unveiled, here’s what we do know and can anticipate:
The mural will sit prominently on the wall adjacent to Cornelia Pharmacy — a new visual landmark.
It will incorporate local motifs: The Chenocetah Tower, the Cornelia Depot, and Lake Russell.
To choose what appeared in the mural, Ms. Renée worked collaborated with the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce, along City of Cornelia Mayor John Borrow and City Manager Donald Anderson.
The timing places Cornelia among the later stops in her national journey — suggesting the town’s readiness and enthusiasm for such a big mural.
When you visit the new mural, keep an eye out for:
Interactive elements — many of Cheyenne’s works invite photo-ops, pose-spots, or social-media sharing.
Local symbolism — look for features that tie to Habersham County history, nature, downtown architecture or community identity.
A dedication or unveiling event — Cheyenne often marks the completion of a mural with a public gathering.
Destination appeal: A large mural boosts downtown foot traffic, adds to Cornelia’s visual charm, and becomes another reason for people to stop, explore and linger.
Economic benefits: Public art can draw visitors, encourage photos/sharing on social media, and highlight local businesses — especially in smaller towns.
Community pride: Having a nationally-recognized artist choose Cornelia adds a bit of spotlight and can galvanize local pride for downtown and its surroundings.
Art & culture momentum: This mural can catalyze further public art efforts — more walls, more projects, more visibility for local creatives.
Mark your calendar: keep an eye out for a formal unveiling event — perhaps at the mural site.
Visit the mural once it’s complete; consider sharing photos on your social media using a local hashtag (e.g., #CorneliaGA #HabershamArt) to spread the word.
Observe the design: look for your favorite downtown spot, or local landmark depicted in the mural — it might spark conversation and connection.
Cheyenne Renee’s arrival in Cornelia for mural #37 is more than just fresh paint on a wall — it reflects opportunity, community collaboration, and a recognition of what small-town America has to offer. As she continues her path toward completing 50 murals in 50 states, Cornelia becomes part of a national dialogue about art, place and identity.
Cornelia, GA – Downtown Cornelia has added a vibrant new landmark to its streetscape: a wall-size mural on the side of Cornelia Pharmacy, transforming a familiar facade into a public canvas and giving the community a fresh reason to pause, snap a photo, and reflect.
The idea behind the mural stems from the city’s renewed embrace of public art and its effort to strengthen downtown’s identity. This is the second mural in Cornelia. The first one was “Cornelia Loves Tim Loves Tink Mural” project.
In the photo below, you can see the new mural taking shape. While it’s not yet known what the entire mural will feature, the Chenocetah tower and an eagle are featured.
According to the city’s website, the new artwork is part of the broader “Vibrant Communities, Public Art” initiative.
The wall offered by Cornelia Pharmacy became available when the owner agreed to host the mural, supporting the downtown beautification effort.
Location: On the side wall of Cornelia Pharmacy, downtown Cornelia — an area that sees both local foot traffic and pass-by motorists.
Impact:
Brings more eyes to that stretch of downtown, encouraging shoppers and visitors to linger.
Adds to the city’s walkability appeal and downtown vibe.
Gives local artists and students a visible opportunity to participate in public art.
If you haven’t yet swung by downtown, consider making a stop at Cornelia Pharmacy’s mural wall. It’s a visual story of community, art and identity — and a signal that Cornelia is investing in its public spaces. It’s not just “another wall” turned art; it’s a sign of a downtown on the move.
Habersham News will update this story as more information becomes available.
As the pumpkins get carved and the costumes get dusted off, families across Habersham County are gearing up for one of the most accessible, safe and high-fun ways to celebrate Halloween — trunk-or-treat events. These gatherings bring the candy, costumes and community together in one spot, offering a great alternative (or complement) to the traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating.
Here’s a look at some of the top trunk-or-treat and related Halloween events happening in Habersham, plus tips to make the evening extra fun and safe.
Tech or Treat – North Georgia Technical College (4pm – 6:30pm)
✅ Tips for Families to Make the Most of It
Arrive early — many of these events have timed hours and large crowds, so arriving early ensures you get the full experience before lines build.
Costumes & comfort — Encourage costumes that are safe for walking (no long trailing pieces), and consider layers: October evenings can be cool in Northeast Georgia.
Safety first — Look for well-lit areas, stick together, and if there’s a large crowd (or vehicles moving), keep a close eye on littler ones. The special-needs event above is a good example of planning for accessibility and safety.
Bring your own bag + backup — While many hosts supply candy, bring a sturdy bag or bucket; a flashlight or glow accessory never hurts once dusk falls.
Be respectful — As always in a community event, be courteous of other families, decorators and drivers. If vehicles are involved, keep watchful especially where foot traffic and cars meet.
Check for updates — Event times/locations may change; local news outlets such as Now Habersham keep updated lists.
Whether you’re looking for an all-out community festival, a quieter accessible option for special-needs children, or downtown trick-or-treat with a trunk-or-treat spin — Habersham County has several excellent choices this Halloween. Make a plan, pick your event, dress up, and enjoy the evening of candy, costumes and community.
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The Habersham County Chamber Board has chosen Shane Smith to serve as the Interim Chamber Coordinator. Shane is available to assist you with all Chamber-related matters, including membership, questions, events, information, and more.
The board issued a statement to Chamber members stating “We are grateful for Shane’s willingness to step in during this transition period while we search for a new Chamber President. We are currently finalizing the job description and plan to post the Chamber President position early next week. After posting, we will carefully review applications and begin the interview process. Thank you for your patience as we work to select our next Chamber President.”
Shane’s office hours are as follows:
Habersham News will provide more updates on the Chamber President selection once it is made available.
When it comes to understanding local sales tax options, there are so many, it’s hard to keep track of just how each one works. Habersham News has put together a quick and easy reference to help you understand them, just in time for the elections.
LOST is a 1 % sales and use tax, authorized by referendum under Georgia law.
Its primary purpose: roll back property taxes (i.e., reduce the millage/levy on property owners) by using sales tax revenue instead.
Applicability in Habersham County: As of recent discussion, Habersham County does not yet have a LOST in place.
Key point: It is general in nature (not tied to specific capital projects), and focuses on shifting some of the tax burden from property owners to consumers (including visitors) via sales tax.
Mechanism: The county (and cities) collect the sales tax, then apply the revenue toward reducing property tax rates — the “roll-back”.
Note: Even when instituted, the LOST revenue must be used for property tax relief (not, for instance, large new buildings) according to law.
Why “floating”?
Because its implementation is tied to the “floating homestead exemption” (i.e., property tax relief component) and its existence depends on certain property tax conditions. It’s a tool to shift some revenue burden to sales tax (so those buying in the county help pay) in order to lower property taxes for homeowners.
Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) is a sales tax designed specifically for transportation-related capital expenditures—roads, bridges, transit systems.
Georgia’s Department of Revenue states that TSPLOST can be regional, single-county, or transit focused.
In recent years, Habersham County voters have rejected TSPLOST referendums.
| Tax Type | Purpose | Term | Funds Used For | Example in Habersham |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOST | Property tax relief (general) | Typically indefinite (or until further referendum) | Rollback of property tax millage | Not yet implemented in Habersham. |
| FLOST | Property tax relief (tied to floating homestead exemption law) | Fixed term (e.g., 5 years) | Property tax relief only | Possible future option in Habersham. |
| SPLOST | Capital projects (county + municipalities) | Fixed term (5-6 years) | Infrastructure, buildings, major equipment | Active in Habersham County. |
| ESPLOST | Capital projects for schools | Fixed term | School buildings, equipment, etc. | Relevant for Habersham School System. |
In Habersham County specifically: The fact that the county lacks a LOST (as of recent) means property owners have less relief via that mechanism than some other Georgia counties.
If you’re a property owner, you’ll care about LOST/FLOST because these can reduce your property tax burden, by shifting some of the cost to sales taxes (paid by anyone who shops in the county).
If you care about infrastructure (roads, public facilities), then SPLOST matters — because it enables major projects without necessarily raising property tax rates (though indirectly there is a sales tax cost).
For parents or supporters of local schools, ESPLOST matters — because it funds school capital improvements which might otherwise require increased property taxes or bond measures.
When elections come up asking for referendums on these taxes, it’s important to know what the tax is for, how long it lasts, and how the proceeds will be used — voter ballots often present the tax in generic form (“Shall a 1 % sales tax be imposed for 5 years for …”).
In Habersham County and across Georgia, these four acronyms — LOST, FLOST, SPLOST, ESPLOST — each represent a 1 % local sales tax (or potential tax) but with distinct purposes, durations, and uses.
Being informed about which tax is being discussed, how the revenue will be distributed, and what the term is will help you understand the financial impact on you as a resident, property owner, or shopper.
If you like, I can check the current status in Habersham County as of 2025 — for example, whether a referendum is upcoming for FLOST or LOST, projected revenue, and how it might impact property taxes. Would you like me to pull that together?
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