The Habersham County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Monday night to formally object to the City of Baldwin’s proposed annexation of nearly 100 acres along Duncan Bridge Road and Ga. 365.
Under Georgia law, counties cannot block annexations outright but may object if they can demonstrate a “material increase in burden” on county services. Commissioners cited concerns about increased traffic, emergency response demands, and a significant shift in zoning intensity as grounds for filing an objection with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.
The property is currently designated Low Intensity under county zoning, but Baldwin’s proposal would allow higher-intensity commercial development, including drive-through restaurants, banks, and grocery stores.
Traffic estimates presented to the board suggest a potential shopping center on the site could generate roughly 24,000 vehicle trips per day, compared to current traffic counts of about 28,000 vehicles daily on nearby Ga. 365. County officials also reviewed crash data at key intersections in the area, noting that Habersham County provides EMS services countywide and could see increased response demands.
If the objection is filed before the early March deadline, the matter will move into a state-managed dispute resolution process that could include negotiation and, if necessary, arbitration.
County officials also raised questions about whether the required notification was properly provided to the Habersham County Board of Education when the annexation was initiated.
The annexation proposal will now proceed through the state review framework as discussions between the county and Baldwin continue.
Habersham News has received a response from Wendy’s media relations regarding questions about potential restaurant closures — but the company did not provide location-specific details.
In its response, Wendy’s referenced information first shared during its Q3 2025 earnings call in November, where the company announced strategic restaurant closures as part of “Project Fresh,” its turnaround plan for the U.S. business.
According to the company, during its Q4 and full-year 2025 earnings call on February 13, Wendy’s Interim CEO and CFO Ken Cook provided an update on that plan. As part of a broader strategy described as “system optimization,” Wendy’s expects approximately 5% to 6% of its U.S. restaurants to close.
The company stated that 28 restaurants closed during the fourth quarter of 2025, with the remaining closures expected to occur during the first half of this year. Wendy’s described the move as an effort to close “consistently underperforming restaurants” and allow franchisees to focus on locations with stronger growth potential.
Notably, Wendy’s did not confirm whether the Cornelia, Clarkesville, Cleveland or Helen locations are among those expected to close, nor did the company provide a list of affected stores.
Habersham News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more specific information becomes available.
Interest remains high in Habersham County’s ongoing grocery store survey, with more than 500 residents already casting their votes in just the first day.
At this point in the survey, ALDI is leading with 320 votes, followed by Kroger with 260 votes and Publix with 202 votes. Additionally, 10 respondents have indicated they do not want any new grocery stores at all.
The survey was launched after many readers expressed interest in bringing additional grocery competition and expanded options to Habersham County. The strong early participation shows that the topic continues to resonate with the community.
Importantly, the survey is still open, and residents are encouraged to make their voices heard before voting closes at 11:59 p.m. on March 8.
The 2026 Special Olympics is set to return to Habersham County on Friday, April 17, 2026, bringing a morning of celebration, competition, and community spirit to John Larry Black Field at Raider Stadium.
The day will begin with the Parade of Olympians at 9:30 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies. Organizers say this year’s event will feature several exciting additions aimed at making the experience even more memorable for participating athletes.
The local Habersham County Chapter of Special Olympics Georgia has partnered closely with various departments within the Habersham County School System, along with Superintendent Franklin, to ensure the event continues to best serve local students and individuals with disabilities.
Events and Activities
Athletes will compete in a variety of events, including:
Relay races
Jumping events
Throwing competitions
2025 Special Olympics Contestants on the track at John Larry Black Field/Photo Submitted
Beyond competition, organizers have expanded the popular Olympic Town area, which provides fun and engaging activities for athletes between events.
New additions this year include:
A sensory area
A new athletic zone
Olympic Town will also feature returning favorites such as face painting, crazy hair, and other classic activities.
For spectators, concessions will be available for purchase throughout the event.
In addition, Habersham Central’s AV Technology team will assist with a live stream of the day’s events, displayed on the stadium’s new LED screen to ensure better visibility for all in attendance.
A Community Event
The Special Olympics has become one of Habersham County’s most uplifting annual events, celebrating determination, inclusion, and achievement. Organizers ask that parents and community members refrain from entering the field during the event to ensure athlete safety and smooth event operations.
Community members are encouraged to attend and show their support for the athletes as they compete and celebrate their accomplishments.
Wendy’s — one of America’s best-known fast food chains — has announced plans to close a significant number of restaurants across the United States as part of a broader effort to strengthen its business amid falling domestic sales.
The Dublin, Ohio–based company reported that it already closed dozens of U.S. locations late in 2025 and now expects to shutter roughly 5 % to 6 % of its U.S. restaurants — approximately 298 to 358 stores — in the first half of 2026. That figure equates to about six out of every 100 Wendy’s locations nationwide. The closures were revealed during the company’s latest earnings call as part of a turnaround plan known internally as “Project Fresh.”
Wendy’s has attributed the decision to a mix of weak same-store sales in the U.S. market and the need to focus resources on higher-performing restaurants and new product strategies. In the fourth quarter, sales at U.S. locations lagged behind expectations, prompting Wendy’s leadership to emphasize value offerings and operational improvements going forward.
While the company has confirmed the overall closure plans, Wendy’s has not released a specific list of affected locations or said which restaurants may be shuttered. That means customers and employees at individual stores across the country — including here in Northeast Georgia — do not yet know whether their local restaurant is on the list.
Habersham News has reached out to Wendy’s corporate communications team to ask whether the Wendy’s in Cornelia, Georgia, will be among the restaurants closing this year. As of press time, we have not yet received a response from the company.
The original Wendy’s Cornelia Crew on the grand opening, November 11, 1985/Photo Habersham History Archives
Here in Cornelia, the Wendy’s restaurant has been a fixture of the local dining scene for decades. It first opened its doors on November 11, 1985, serving generations of residents and travelers alike with the chain’s signature square-patty burgers and Frosty treats. Its long history in the community has made the Cornelia location a familiar stop for many local families, office workers, and students.
As Wendy’s moves forward with its restructuring plans, many communities around the country are watching closely to see which locations will be impacted. In the interim, customers and employees are left waiting for more detailed information from Wendy’s corporate leadership.
Habersham News will update readers with any official confirmation about the Cornelia restaurant’s status as more information becomes available.
Over the past several months, many Habersham News readers have reached out with the same question: Why don’t we have more grocery store options in Habersham County? From requests for more variety to calls for increased competition and lower prices, it’s a topic that continues to come up in emails, messages, and comment threads.
To better understand what residents want — and what they feel is missing — Habersham News has launched a countywide grocery store survey. The goal is simple: give the community a voice and gather feedback that reflects local needs and shopping habits.
The survey asks residents which grocery stores they would most like to see come to Habersham County, what matters most when grocery shopping, and how far people currently travel to meet their household needs.
⏰ Survey Deadline:Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
In addition to sharing the results with readers, Habersham News plans to take the next step. Once the survey closes, Habersham News will reach out to the top two grocery store choices to share the community’s interest and explore whether those companies might consider locating a store in Habersham County. While there are many factors involved in site selection and development, the goal is to ensure that local demand is clearly communicated directly to decision-makers.
To see the results when they’re published, readers are encouraged to follow Habersham News on Facebook at: 👉 https://facebook.com/habershamnews
As always, Habersham News exists to reflect the interests and voices of the community. This survey is one more way for residents to help shape the conversation about growth, development, and quality of life in Habersham County.
The City of Baldwin City Council will hold its next regular meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Baldwin Municipal Courtroom, located at 155 Willingham Avenue.
The meeting will open with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a work session. There is no consent agenda and no public hearings scheduled for this meeting.
During the meeting, council members will hear a report from Fire Chief Ross Jackson, who is expected to provide an update from the Baldwin Fire Department.
Under Old Business, the council will consider approval of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the Baldwin Police Department’s Flock Camera system, which is used for license plate recognition and crime prevention.
Several items appear under New Business, including consideration and approval of a CKH Consulting Service Agreement. Council members will also be asked to authorize the posting of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for multiple professional services, including:
Legal services
Prosecutor services
Municipal judge services
The council may enter executive session later in the meeting, followed by announcements and adjournment.
As part of the announcements, city officials note that a public hearing for the Cook Construction annexation application is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on March 3 in the Baldwin Municipal Courtroom. Second readings of the related annexation and zoning ordinances are currently scheduled for March 17.
The City of Baldwin provides reasonable accommodations for those participating in City Council meetings. Residents needing accommodations are encouraged to notify the City Clerk as early as possible prior to the meeting.
City Council meetings are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend and participate during the public comments portion of the meeting.
The Piedmont baseball team fell to #6-ranked Lynchburg on Saturday evening by a final score of 7-5.
The Lions looked as though they would continue their offensive parade from the previous game with a three-run inning in the first as Cole Ellis once again caused trouble at the top of the lineup. Piedmont would come away with the lead as Andrew Miserly took the ball on the pitching side for the Lions.
Piedmont would add on another run before the Hornets would look to answer back with a pair in the fourth before their big third inning.
Miserly went a solid 4.1 innings but found trouble in the fifth when the Hornets would get to the righty and chase him from the game after giving up three in the inning. Ben Homansky would close out the inning before handing the ball to Bryson Harris in the sixth.
The Lions would struggle to get anything going with the bats as Lynchburg pitching settled in after a shaky first.
Lynchburg would break through in the seventh as Quinn Madden for the Hornets would launch a two-run homer to solidify their lead.
Piedmont would answer in the bottom half, making it a two-run game with six more outs to play with, but Lynchburg’s pitching was too strong, as the Lions were set down in order for the remainder of the game.
Game Two:
The Lions picked up their second victory of the season with a 5-1 win over the George Fox Bruins.
Piedmont was opportunistic as they scored three of their five runs off of mistakes made by George Fox.
The freshman Drew O’Neil got the start and did great work in his 3.1 innings, allowing just one run against the Bruins while striking out three. He found himself in trouble in the fourth inning and was relieved by fellow freshman Will Schmidt, who was rock solid out of the pen as the righty collected seven strikeouts across 5.2 innings of work while allowing no runs.
Piedmont broke the game open in the seventh with more opportunistic play as a pair of runs came home.
It would be smooth sailing the rest of the way as the Lions’ young pitching shone and led them to a 5-1 win in the nightcap.
Piedmont ends the weekend with a 2-1 record after facing strong opponents.
The baseball team will next be in action at the D3Baseball Showcase in Kannapolis, N.C., with game one set on Feb. 20th at 12:00 p.m. against Washington and Lee.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES: – Matt Dupuis had a stellar day, scattering four hits across eight at-bats collecting an RBI in process. – Will Schmidt was electric with seven strikeouts across 5.2 innings of work, closing out the game for the Lions. – Justin Shaffer tallied two hits while scoring three runs in the win against George Fox.
The City of Cornelia will celebrate Arbor Day on Friday, February 20, 2026, with a public tree-planting ceremony in downtown Cornelia.
The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the site of the city’s new downtown parking lot, located at the corner of Front Street and Rosa Parks Street. City officials will plant October Maple Glory trees, continuing Cornelia’s efforts to enhance its downtown landscape and promote long-term environmental stewardship. The public is encouraged to attend.
Arbor Day History
Arbor Day has its roots in 1872, when Julius Sterling Morton, a Nebraska pioneer, introduced the holiday after observing the lack of trees on the plains. After relocating from Detroit to Nebraska in 1854, Morton championed large-scale tree planting to serve as windbreaks, prevent soil erosion, provide shade and fuel, and support wildlife habitat. His efforts inspired communities across the country to recognize the lasting benefits of trees.
In Georgia, Arbor Day is observed on the third Friday in February, aligning with the end of the state’s tree-planting season. Official statewide observances typically include a gubernatorial Arbor Day proclamation at the State Capitol and a statewide event hosted by the Georgia Tree Council. Communities across Georgia also mark the occasion with local ceremonies, educational programs, and tree-planting projects during the November–February planting season.
Cornelia’s Arbor Day celebration reflects that statewide tradition at a local level, emphasizing how trees contribute to community character, environmental health, and quality of life. Events like these also highlight the many ways Arbor Day can be celebrated—from school programs and neighborhood plantings to recognizing community members who demonstrate strong environmental stewardship.
Friday’s ceremony is open to the public, and no registration is required.
Clarkesville, GA — February 10, 2026— Habersham County is providing additional details regarding the process to fill the vacancy on the Habersham County Board of Commissioners, District 3, following the resignation of Commissioner Jimmy Tench, effective February 13, 2026.
At their next regularly scheduled meeting to be held on February 16, 2026, the Habersham County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to vote on a resolution calling for a special election to fill the unexpired term of District 3 Commissioner Jimmy Tench which does not conclude until December 31, 2026. The special election is expected to be held in conjunction with the May 19, 2026 General Primary Election.
The Habersham County Board of Elections will consider approval of the call for election at a Special Called Meeting on February 17, 2026. The official Call for Election will be advertised in the February 18, 2026 edition of the county’s legal organ, The Northeast Georgian.
Election Overview
It is important for prospective candidates and the public to understand that two separate elections will be held on May 19, 2026 for the District 3 Commission seat:
A special election, held on May 19, 2026, to fill the unexpired term ending December 31, 2026, and
A regular election, also held on May 19, 2026, to fill the District 3 Commission seat for a full four-year term beginning January 1, 2027.
Although the elections are held on the same day, they are separate races. Candidates who wish to run in both elections must qualify separately for each race, including payment of two separate qualifying fees and completion of all required qualifying paperwork for both elections.
The qualifying period for both the special election and the regular election will take place March 2 through March 6, 2026.
Should a runoff be needed for either election, the runoff date would be June 16, 2026.
Candidate Qualifications
To qualify as a candidate for the District 3 Commission seat, individuals must meet the required qualifications, including being a resident of District 3 in Habersham County, having resided in Habersham County for at least twelve (12) months prior to the election, being a qualified voter, being a citizen of the State of Georgia, and having attained the age of twenty-one (21) years.
Election Day for both the Special Election and the General Primary will be held on May 19, 2026. A runoff election, if required, would be held in accordance with state election law.
Individuals interested in qualifying as a candidate or seeking additional election-related information are encouraged to contact the Habersham County Board of Elections:
Habersham County Board of Elections Attn: Laurel Ellison, Elections Supervisor / Chief Registrar 403 Habersham County Shopping Center Cornelia, GA 30531 Phone: 706-839-0170 Email: lellison@habershamga.com
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
For general county information related to this announcement, please contact:
Brandalin Carnes Habersham County Clerk 706-839-0215 bcarnes@habershamga.com
HABERSHAM COUNTY — For generations of listeners across Northeast Georgia, Billy Burrell has been a familiar voice of faith, encouragement, and constancy. From early-morning radio broadcasts to decades of ministry, Burrell’s life has been defined by service — a legacy that now has the full attention and prayers of the Habersham community following news of his recent cancer diagnosis.
Burrell spent an extraordinary 70 years in radio, including decades as the host of Sunshine Melodies on WCON Radio. His broadcasting career also included stations in Toccoa before he eventually made Cornelia his home base. At one point, Burrell even continued his WCON broadcasts while living in Mississippi, mailing recorded cassette tapes back to the station so his listeners would not miss a day.
Rev. Billy Burrell (center) poses with David Foster (left) and Clayton Foster (right) on Rev. Burrell’s 90th birthday/Photo Kim Foster
Known as a lifelong early riser, Burrell built his radio schedule around habits that suited him naturally. For years, he rose at 3:30 each morning, often operating on just six hours of sleep, balanced by an afternoon nap. That routine carried him well into his 90s, allowing him to remain a steady presence on the air long after most would have retired.
A Changing Industry, an Unchanging Message
Over seven decades, Burrell witnessed dramatic changes in broadcasting technology. He began his career on a low-wattage station and lived to see WCON grow into a powerful signal reaching tens of thousands of listeners. Despite the shift to modern studios filled with screens and digital systems, Burrell remained devoted to a simpler approach — relying primarily on his microphone, soundboard, and a personal collection of CDs he carried with him each day.
Sunshine Melodies was never scripted. Each broadcast blended gospel music with Burrell’s personal testimony, reflections on faith, and encouragement drawn from a lifetime of ministry. His presence on the air was openly Christian and unapologetically pastoral, creating a bond with listeners who felt they knew him personally.
That connection often extended beyond the radio. Over the years, Burrell presided over countless funerals for listeners he had never met in person but had come to know through the airwaves — sometimes leading multiple services in a single day.
Retirement From Radio, Not From Ministry
Burrell stepped away from radio in his 90s, not because of a lack of passion, but because he felt the time was right. While he retired from broadcasting, he made it clear that his calling to ministry was not ending. He has continued to preach, conduct funerals, and serve churches as opportunities arise.
Following Burrell’s retirement, Sunshine Melodies continued under the leadership of Mike Franklin, senior pastor of The Torch in Cornelia. Franklin assumed hosting duties in July, carrying forward the program’s strong Christian foundation while introducing updated music and devotional segments. The program continues to air weekday mornings on WCON and The Breeze 107.7.
A New Season, Surrounded by Prayer
Now 95 years old, Burrell faces a new challenge following his recent cancer diagnosis. While details about the illness are still forthcoming, those close to him say he remains in good spirits and grounded in the faith that has guided his entire life.
As Burrell approaches his 96th birthday on March 15, friends and community members are being invited to participate in a simple act of encouragement by sending birthday cards and letters that can be shared with him daily.
Cards and letters may be mailed to:
Billy PO Box 2 Mount Airy, GA 30563
(A family friend will personally deliver the cards and read them to Burrell.)
For a man who spent a lifetime uplifting others — through radio, ministry, and personal connection — the Habersham community is now returning that love through prayer, gratitude, and words of encouragement.
Habersham News joins the community in lifting up Billy Burrell and his family during this time, honoring a life that has left an enduring imprint on Northeast Georgia.
Health officials in coastal Georgia are warning restaurant owners and managers to stay alert after an individual falsely claimed to be a health inspector and threatened to shut down a restaurant — a situation officials say could happen anywhere, including North Georgia.
According to a report from WTOC, the Coastal Health District received a report involving a restaurant in Glynn County. The restaurant manager contacted the Glynn County Health Department on February 10, 2026, stating that an encounter occurred over the weekend with an angry patron who falsely claimed to be a health inspector and threatened to close the business.
Unlike many similar scams, the individual did not request money or favors, which is why law enforcement was not involved. Still, health officials say the incident raised concerns about potential fraudulent encounters and prompted a public warning.
“We take incidents like this very seriously, because we take integrity and professionalism seriously,” said Brant Phelps, Environmental Health Director for the Coastal Health District. “This is a good opportunity to let folks know what to expect from our health inspectors and how to recognize suspicious behavior.”
What Restaurant Owners Should Know
Health officials emphasized that legitimate inspectors follow strict protocols and can be easily verified. Restaurants should be cautious if anyone claiming to be an inspector behaves aggressively or makes threats.
Key reminders from health officials include:
Health inspectors always carry official identification and business owners have the right to ask to see it.
Inspectors do not threaten immediate closure during routine interactions.
Health departments do not collect cash, favors, or on-the-spot payments during inspections.
Any interaction that feels confrontational or suspicious should be reported directly to the local health department.
Why This Matters Locally
While this incident occurred in Glynn County, health officials say similar situations can happen anywhere. Restaurant owners in Habersham County are encouraged to ensure managers and staff understand how to verify inspectors and respond appropriately.
Scammers — or individuals impersonating officials — often rely on fear, authority, and confusion, especially during busy service hours. Being informed, officials say, is the best defense.
Habersham News is sharing this information as a reminder for local businesses to stay vigilant and to contact the appropriate authorities if they encounter suspicious behavior.
HABERSHAM COUNTY — Valentine’s Day doesn’t always look the same in Habersham County — and that’s part of what makes it special.
For some, it’s a quiet dinner at home. For others, it’s handwritten notes tucked into backpacks, a surprise coffee on the way to work, or simply checking in on someone who might be having a hard week.
Across the county, residents have their own ways of marking the day — small traditions that don’t always involve reservations or roses, but still mean a lot.
Florists and shops see a familiar rush each February, but many people in Habersham say the moments that matter most are the simple ones: spending time together, sharing a laugh, or slowing down long enough to appreciate the people around them.
Valentine’s Day may be about love, but in Habersham, it’s often about connection — to family, friends, neighbors, and the community itself.
However you’re spending the day, Habersham News wishes you a safe, warm, and meaningful Valentine’s Day.
DEMOREST, GA – The Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art at Piedmont University announces an updated reception date for Handwork 2026: Jennifer Graff & Thaddeus Erdahl. The public reception will now take place on Thursday, March 5, from 4:30–6:30 p.m., rescheduled due to recent ice and snowstorms. The exhibition remains on view through March 19, 2026.
Ceramic artwork by artist Thaddeus Erdahl/Photo Piedmont University
Handwork 2026: Jennifer Graff & Thaddeus Erdahl brings together the work of two Georgia ceramic artists in conjunction with Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, a national Semiquincentennial celebration of the handmade organized by Craft in America. The exhibition highlights contemporary ceramic practices that engage both figurative and functional traditions. It also celebrates the enduring relevance of craft media in American art.
Thaddeus Erdahl maintains a studio in Clarkesville, Georgia. Working predominantly with the human figure sculpted in clay, Erdahl addresses themes of myth in the modern age. He exhibits widely and teaches workshops and college-level ceramics courses, contributing significantly to contemporary ceramic education and practice.
Athens-based artist Jennifer Graff has explored both figurative and functional approaches to clay for more than 25 years. She is a Professor of Art at the University of North Georgia, where she continues to influence generations of emerging artists through her teaching and studio practice.
The exhibition is on view at the Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art, located on the campus of Piedmont University in Demorest, Georgia.
The MSMA is located at 567 Georgia Street, Demorest, GA 30535.
BALDWIN — A Gainesville man was arrested Tuesday afternoon following an incident at a Baldwin convenience store that police say involved a vehicle being used as a weapon and a subsequent domestic-related confrontation.
According to the Baldwin Police Department, officers responded at approximately 4:58 p.m. on February 10 to a reported motor vehicle crash at Circle K.
Investigators determined that Balmer Alexis Melgar Ayala, 29, of Gainesville, was driving a 2014 Nissan Sentra when he intentionally rammed a 2015 Ford F-150 in the parking lot. The Ford F-150 was occupied at the time by a 29-year-old female, who police identified as Melgar Ayala’s spouse.
Police said the collision pinned the victim inside her vehicle, restricting her ability to move. The victim was eventually able to pull her truck forward, exit the vehicle, and get away from the immediate danger.
According to the victim and witnesses, Melgar Ayala exited his vehicle after the crash holding a hammer and began striking both vehicles, shattering multiple windows. The victim fled the area and moved to a safer location with the assistance of bystanders.
Melgar Ayala was detained when officers arrived on scene and was later taken into custody. The Baldwin Fire Department and Habersham County Emergency Medical Services also responded and determined that no injuries were reported as a result of the crash or the incident that followed.
Melgar Ayala was transported to the Habersham County Detention Center and charged with the following offenses:
Aggravated Assault (Family Violence Act)
Criminal Damage to Property (Family Violence Act) – two counts
False Imprisonment (Family Violence Act)
Terroristic Threats and Acts
Reckless Driving
Baldwin Police thanked the Alto Police Department and Cornelia Police Department for their assistance during the incident.
BALDWIN — The Mayor and City Council of the City of Baldwin met Tuesday afternoon for a special called meeting, during which council entered an executive session for personnel matters.
The meeting was held at the Baldwin Police Department Training Facility. After concluding the executive session, the council returned to open session; however, no action was taken following the closed discussion.
Executive sessions allow governing bodies to discuss certain matters privately under Georgia’s Open Meetings Act, including personnel-related issues. Any votes or official decisions must be made in public.
City officials did not provide additional details regarding the discussion held during the executive session.
Habersham News will continue to monitor City of Baldwin meetings and report on any future actions taken by council.
Cornelia, GA —Digitize Habersham, a groundbreaking local-history project created by Habersham History, has been named Best Digital Archives by Habersham News.
Launched in 2022, Digitize Habersham has transformed access to the county’s past by digitizing more than 140,000 pages of historic newspapers published in Habersham County between 1857 and 1963. The online archive allows residents, researchers, students, and genealogists to search and explore more than a century of local history from their own homes.
A Window Into Habersham’s Past
The collection includes thousands of pages from several long-running local newspapers, offering insight into daily life, major events, and community milestones across generations. Newspapers currently available through Digitize Habersham include:
The Beacon — 316 pages (1962–1965)
The Clarkesville Advertiser — 1,650 pages (1882–1918)
The Cornelia News — 5 pages (1925)
The Demorest Times — 709 pages (1891–1896)
The Northeast Georgian — 6,875 pages (1857–1957)
The Tri-County Advertiser — 17,060 pages (1918–1957)
Together, these publications document more than a century of births, deaths, marriages, elections, business openings, school news, and the everyday stories that shaped Habersham County.
Part of a Larger Preservation Effort
Digitize Habersham is just one of several programs developed by Habersham History to preserve and share the county’s rich heritage. While access to the archive is free, users are required to create an account to search and view the materials. The archive can be accessed at archives.habershamhistory.org.
Behind the scenes, the work is substantial. To date, Habersham History has invested more than $60,000 to digitize, process, and preserve these historic newspaper pages.
Help Digitize Habersham Grow
Habersham History operates 100 percent on donations, relying entirely on community support to continue its preservation efforts. While Digitize Habersham remains free to use, those who value the resource are encouraged to consider supporting the project.
By honoring Digitize Habersham as Best Digital Archives, Habersham News recognizes not only the scale of the project, but its lasting value to the community — ensuring that Habersham County’s stories are preserved, searchable, and accessible for generations to come.
DEMOREST — After months of anticipation, Bangkok Bistro officially opened its doors on February 5, 2026, bringing a new destination for Thai cuisine, sushi, and handcrafted drinks to downtown Demorest.
Owned and operated by Nina and Joel, the husband-and-wife team behind the popular Bangkok Haus in Helen, the new restaurant has quickly become a local favorite since welcoming its first guests. The owners have a history of serving bold Thai flavors, fresh sushi, and a full lineup of cocktails and spirits in a warm, inviting atmosphere — and the Demorest location continues that tradition.
Located at 579 Georgia Street, the restaurant offers a blend of classic Thai dishes and sushi favorites alongside a fully stocked bar featuring beer, wine, and mixed drinks. Patrons can enjoy traditional options like pad Thai, Mongolian beef, and Thai iced tea alongside sushi rolls and sashimi, making it a unique stop in Habersham County’s dining scene.
“We’re excited to be part of the Demorest community,” Nina and Joel said in a social media post celebrating the opening. “We can’t wait for everyone to taste what we’ve been working on.”
The restaurant’s hours are:
11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday
11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday
With its soft opening now complete, Bangkok Bistro is expected to become a go-to spot for local residents and visitors alike — especially those seeking fresh, flavorful options beyond the usual fare.
The Helen original, Bangkok Haus, is well regarded for its menu of Thai favorites, sushi, and cocktails in a relaxed setting, drawing local and regional diners. Reviews praise its mix of quality food and lively atmosphere, and the new Demorest location aims to bring that same experience closer to Habersham communities.
Habersham News will continue to follow local business developments and share updates on new dining options as they become available.
For the first time in school history, an athletic team has won back-to-back state titles. Tallulah Falls was successful in defending its titles in both girls and boys swimming. The Lady Indians once again dominated the field at Georgia Tech on Monday to claim their second consecutive championship, while the Indians also hoisted the ultimate trophy.
Both the boys and girls got out to an incredible start with a pair of relay teams winning gold in the first two events of the meet. From there, individuals and relay teams continued to put themselves on the podium.
TFS Lady Indians Swim Team have won back-to-back State titles
Lady Indians
The 200 Medley Relay team (Carsyn Griffis, Mattie Patterson, Lucia Roser de Hoyos, Selah Wiltshire) claimed gold, as well as the 200 Free Relay (Arias, M Patterson, Roser de Hoyos, Wiltshire).
The B-Relay team of the 200 Medley took Runner-Up (Veronica Verberkmoes, Ida Patterson, Valentina Arias Camargo, Cassidy Coles), and Selah Wiltshire was the 50 Free runner-up. Arias was also second in the 100 Fly.
Those who took a 3rd-place finish include: Roser de Hoyos (200 Free), Mattie Patterson (200 IM), Wiltshire (100 Free in a school record of 53.83 and in the 100 Breast), and the 200 Free Relay ‘B’ team.
Fourth-place finishes included Arias (100 Back) and Mattie Patterson (100 Breast). Ida Patterson (200 Free), Mattie Patterson (100 Fly), and Roser de Hoyos (100 Free) all had a 5th-place finish.
Indians
The Indians opened the meet with a win in the 200 Medley Relay with Waldon McIntosh, Alex Degado, Martin Raybon, and Teagan Penland. McIntosh later won the 100 Fly with a school record time of 50.37. Alex Degado won the 100 Breast, and the 200 Free Relay (Raybon, Degado, Penland, McIntosh) finished off the meet with a title.
McIntosh also had a Runner-Up finish in the 100 Back in a school record time of 54:34, and added a 3rd-place finish in the 200 IM. Degado also was fourth in the 200 Free.
McIntosh was the GIAA Boys High Point Award winner.
TFS Middle School Swim Team has won back-to-back State titles
TFS Middle School
The MS boys also earned the status of back-to-back State Champions. The Indians posted 82 points, nearly doubling the 2nd-place group. The 200 Medley Relay team (Brody Dampier, Lincoln Penland, Logan Thompson, Rhett Addison) won gold, as did the 200 Free Relay (Brody Dampier, Matteus York, Lincoln Penland, Logan Thompson). Dampier won individually in the 50 Back.
