Joseph Richard Galicia, Sr., age 59, of Clarkesville, Georgia passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
Memorial Services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.
Frances Lee Bailey Roberts, age 75, of Gainesville, Georgia, took her heavenly flight home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, following an extended illness.
Born on November 25, 1950, in Gainesville, Georgia, Frances was the beloved daughter of the late Homer Lee Bailey and Grace Gerrin Bailey. She lived a life defined by unwavering faith, joyful service, and a deep love for others. Truly a woman to be celebrated, Frances was unstoppable in her devotion to God and her community until the very moment she was called home.
Frances found great joy in serving the Lord in every way she could. Whether she was teaching, playing the piano for revival services, or helping prepare meals for church gatherings, she gave her time and talents wholeheartedly. A faithful member of Old Nacoochee Missionary Baptist Church, she was especially cherished as an inspired children’s Bible teacher. Through Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Wednesday night services, Fall Festivals, and even in her own home, Frances brought Bible stories to life with warmth and enthusiasm. She also shared her ministry beyond the church walls, teaching at Level Grove Elementary and Fairview Elementary Schools through the Good News Club. No child ever left her presence without feeling loved—and often with a bag of goodies in hand.
She also had a joyful, adventurous spirit and was always ready to travel with her family at the drop of a hat—often heading out on spontaneous adventures with nothing packed but a willing heart and a sense of excitement.
Her home stood as a testament to her creativity and generosity, filled from top to bottom with crafting supplies she used to bless others. Frances also dedicated over 25 years of service as a mail carrier with the United States Postal Service before her retirement, faithfully serving her community with diligence and care.
Frances’s love for the Lord, her family, and every moment of life was always evident. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and joyful service that will live on in all who knew her.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Luther Roberts, Jr.
Survivors include her children, Susan and Nelson Woodward, and Mark Roberts; her cherished grandson, Dawson Woodward; her devoted best friend, Diane Smith; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of dear friends.
Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home, with Rev. Danny O’Kelly and Rev. Joe Frady officiating. Interment will follow at Yonah Memorial Gardens, with Rev. Joel Shadburn officiating at the graveside.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026.
An online guest registry is available for the Roberts family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
Jerry Lee Hamilton, age 69, of Clarkesville, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
Born in Demorest, Georgia on June 21, 1956, he was a son of the late Bud Hamilton and Vera Mae York Hamilton. Jerry was the owner and operator of Hill Switch Tire Shop in Clarkesville, where he faithfully served his community for many years before retiring.
Jerry was a devoted husband, a loving Daddy, and a proud Papa who cherished his family deeply. A man of strong faith, he loved the Lord and lived his life with kindness and humility. He found great joy in the outdoors, especially fishing, and treasured the simple moments spent surrounded by nature and those he loved. His laughter, warmth, and steady presence will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sherry Lanete Blakely Hamilton; infant son, Coty Hamilton; brothers, Larry William “Sonny” Hamilton and Clyde Hamilton; and sisters, Brenda Gail Porterfield, Linda Mae Mulchi, and Patsy Jean Hamilton.
Survivors include his loving daughter and son-in-law, Heather Hamilton Sheets and Richard Sheets; grandchildren, Caden Hamilton and Colton Hamilton, and Leland Sheets and Logan Sheets; brothers, Leroy Hamilton, Ronald Alexander “Runt” Hamilton, and James Hamilton; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many dear friends.
In accordance with his wishes, Jerry was cremated and no formal service will be held.
An online guest registry is available for the Hamilton family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
Deputies with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office were involved in a brief vehicle pursuit Thursday afternoon that ended safely with no injuries.
According to a post on the sheriff’s office Facebook page, the pursuit began just before 1 p.m. in Cornelia and continued onto Cannon Bridge Road. Deputies were able to bring the situation to a controlled stop within approximately five minutes using a PIT maneuver.
Officials said no other vehicles were involved in the incident, and no injuries were reported.
The driver was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Habersham County Detention Center.
The Georgia State Patrol is investigating the crash that resulted from the PIT maneuver.
No additional details have been released at this time.
A highly anticipated documentary honoring Hall of Fame baseball legend Johnny Mize has officially sold out ahead of its showing at Piedmont University’s Mason Scharfenstein Museum of Art.
According to museum representative Rebecca Brantley, all 40 available seats for tonight’s screening of Stalking the Big Cat have been claimed, signaling strong community interest in the life and legacy of the Demorest native.
“We are at capacity,” Brantley said. “It’s been a bit of a whirlwind.”
The event is being led by filmmaker Hal Jacobs, with the museum serving as host venue.
In addition to the film, attendees can expect a unique experience featuring several special guests with ties to Mize and his legacy. Among them:
These guests are expected to share personal insights, historical knowledge and memorabilia connected to Mize’s life and career.
With demand clearly exceeding available seating, the possibility of an encore showing has already come up. While nothing has been confirmed, Brantley said she plans to discuss the idea with Jacobs.
“I think that would be a great idea,” she said, noting the overwhelming response from the community.
The sold-out event highlights a renewed local interest in preserving and celebrating the story of one of Habersham County’s most notable figures. Known as “The Big Cat,” Mize rose from Northeast Georgia to become one of Major League Baseball’s most feared hitters and a member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
DEMOREST, Ga – The Piedmont University Wind Ensemble will present its Spring Concert on Thurs., Apr. 9, 2026, at 7:30 P.M. in the Piedmont University Chapel. The program will feature a diverse repertoire spanning traditional wind band classics and contemporary works, including music by Gustav Holst, Richard Wagner, Vittorio Monti, John Philip Sousa, Frank Ticheli, Katahj Copley, and Patrick Roszell.
In addition to Piedmont student musicians representing academic disciplines from across campus, the ensemble includes guest performers from Lanier Technical College, Habersham Central High School, Stephens County High School, Wilbanks Middle School, South Habersham Middle School, and North Habersham Middle School. The collaborative performance highlights Piedmont’s commitment to regional arts education and mentorship.
The ensemble is conducted by Dr. Emery Claude Warnock. Dr. Timothy F. Lytle, Butman Professor of Religion and Professor of Philosophy & Religion, will serve as concert host.
The evening will feature Piedmont University Music Performance major Ms. Yasmi Velasquez performing Vittorio Monti’s Czárdás on alto saxophone. Piedmont University Music Education majors Ms. Nico Lankford and Ms. Kaedy Land will also take the podium as student conductors.
The community is cordially invited to attend. Admission is free.
The Piedmont University Chapel is located at 992Central Ave., Demorest, GA 30535.
For more information on fine arts events at Piedmont, visit here.
CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — Kellie Cash has been named the new principal of Woodville Elementary School following action by the Habersham County Board of Education on Monday night.
Cash was formally promoted during the board’s regular meeting, with Superintendent Patrick Franklin making the announcement as part of the evening’s personnel recommendations.
The appointment places Cash in a key leadership role within the Habersham County School System, where she will oversee daily operations at Woodville Elementary and help guide students, faculty, and staff.
The promotion comes as part of several personnel actions approved by the board, which met Monday evening to conduct regular business, recognize students and staff, and review district operations.
Woodville Elementary serves students in the Habersham County School System and plays an important role in the community’s elementary education pipeline.
Cash’s appointment is expected to take effect ahead of the upcoming school term.
Clarkesville, Ga. — Benji Harrison has taken on a new role within Habersham Central High School athletics.
Harrison, the school’s longtime head football coach, was introduced Monday night as the school’s new assistant athletic director by Superintendent Patrick Franklin.
The move adds administrative responsibilities to Harrison’s already full plate, but it’s one he says he’s ready to embrace.
“This place is home. This place means a lot to me,” Harrison said. “So anything I can do to help, that’s really what I want to do.”
The new role comes at a time when Habersham Central’s athletic programs continue to grow, both in participation and in the number of teams offered. According to Athletic Director Geep Cunningham, that growth made it clear additional leadership was needed.
“It’s a great situation,” Cunningham said. “It gives us another person in the athletic department to help out. Our athletic program has grown tremendously in the last some years. We’ve added teams. Our participation levels are high, not only at the middle school, but at the high school.”
Cunningham said the increasing demands of managing a growing athletic department made the decision necessary.
“It gives us another person to administrate a lot of stuff that needs to be done,” he said. “It’s just difficult for one person to do.”
Harrison will take on the new responsibilities while continuing in his current roles, including leading the football program.
“He’ll take this on along with all his other duties,” Cunningham said. “It’s just added to his plate a little bit, but that’s okay. He’s up for that, and it’ll be good.”
For Harrison, the transition may not dramatically change his day-to-day routine right away, but it will allow him to be more involved across all sports programs.
“I don’t know that it will change much from what I’m doing now,” he said. “But I think it gives me a little more leeway to help and take some of that off [Cunningham]. If I can just help us in any way and take some load off from other people, I’ll be happy to do it.”
Harrison also emphasized the opportunity to support the school’s expanding athletic offerings.
“Our programs have grown a lot. Our programs are getting bigger,” he said.
The promotion comes as Harrison prepares for another football season. The Raiders will begin spring practice on April 29, with a spring game scheduled for May 15 at home against Franklin County.
The upcoming season will also mark Harrison’s 12th year as head coach, making him the longest-tenured head football coach in school history.
When asked about reaching that milestone, Harrison kept his answer simple.
“Grateful,” he said. “Just grateful to get to be in a place for so long and to have had the opportunities to develop so many cool relationships with different people.”
Looking ahead, Harrison said the team will feature a large senior class of more than 25 players.
“It’s a good group,” he said. “We lose a little bit, but we also got a lot back.”
Cunningham said Harrison’s experience, character, and long-standing involvement in the program made him the right choice for the expanded role.
“We needed to get somebody that’s knowledgeable, that’s been around the sports scene, that is loyal, trusting, and he’s a great person,” Cunningham said. “So it’s a great situation. It’s going to help tremendously.”
Cunningham also made clear the move is about strengthening the athletic department — not stepping away from his own role.
“No, no,” he said when asked if the change signaled a transition. “We’re talking about making our athletic program better and stronger. That’s what we’re doing.”
With Harrison stepping into the assistant athletic director role, school leaders say they are positioning Habersham Central athletics for continued growth and support across all programs.
The Habersham County Board of Education recognized educators, students and staff members while approving several major projects during its regular meeting Monday night.
The meeting opened with an invocation from Ethan Carlson, student director at Bethlehem Baptist Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Dr. B. J. Addison.
Board members approved the meeting agenda and minutes from recent work sessions and meetings before moving into a series of recognitions highlighting achievements across the school system.
Tiffany Collins, an eighth-grade Georgia Studies teacher at North Habersham Middle School, received the district’s Extra Mile Award.
School administrators praised Collins for going above and beyond for students, colleagues and the school community. According to the nomination, Collins routinely enhances classroom lessons with special activities and materials she often provides herself. She also volunteers to assist with IEP meetings, mentors new teachers and participates in student events and school activities.
Her colleagues described her as someone who consistently ensures students feel valued and supported both academically and personally.
Another Extra Mile Award went to Jackie Bowman, a nutrition assistant at Woodville Elementary School.
Bowman was recognized for managing cafeteria operations for much of the school year while frequently working alone. Administrators said she not only prepares meals but builds relationships with students by learning their names and taking time to interact with them in the cafeteria and hallways.
She also works with a local Boys and Girls Club after-school program, further demonstrating her dedication to serving students.
The board also celebrated 22 students from grades five through twelve who were selected for Georgia Music Educators Association All-State events.
According to district officials, more than 4,000 Habersham County students currently participate in music programs, highlighting the importance of music education across the system.
The All-State recognitions included students selected for:
March is nationally recognized as Music in Our Schools Month, an initiative promoted by the National Association for Music Education.
A special recognition was given to Kelly Gunn, a paraprofessional at Fairview Elementary School, for her quick response during a medical emergency.
While supervising lunch duty, a student began choking on food. Gunn immediately performed the Heimlich maneuver, successfully clearing the airway and preventing the situation from becoming more serious.
School leaders praised her attentiveness and training, calling her actions heroic.
Finance Director Stacey Newsome reported that the district’s finances remain on track for the current fiscal year.
Through Feb. 28, the school system had received $71.9 million, or 61% of its budgeted revenue, while expenditures totaled $72.6 million, or 68% of the budget.
Newsome also presented results from the district’s annual independent audit conducted by Mauldin & Jenkins.
The district received an unmodified opinion, the highest rating possible, with:
Officials said the audit confirms that taxpayer funds are being managed properly and in compliance with all state and federal requirements.
Superintendent Patrick Franklin also recognized board members during Board Appreciation Week, thanking them for their leadership and commitment to students.
Franklin said the district currently ranks No. 1 in Northeast Georgia in several academic indicators, including student achievement, attendance, and SAT and ACT scores.
He also encouraged voters to support the upcoming E-SPLOST VII renewal referendum scheduled for May 19, emphasizing that the measure is a continuation of the existing penny sales tax first approved in 1999 and would fund facilities, technology, transportation and other improvements.
The board approved several leadership appointments during the meeting.
Cash previously served the district in multiple roles, including paraprofessional, teacher, academic coach and vice principal.
Several schools were recognized for strong attendance.
Elementary student attendance leaders:
Secondary student attendance leaders:
Staff attendance winners included Demorest Elementary and the Habersham Ninth Grade Academy.
The board approved several significant expenditures using E-SPLOST funds, including:
Board members also approved the 2026 lawn maintenance contract for all 13 campuses.
In another key decision, the board unanimously approved a one-year extension of Superintendent Patrick Franklin’s contract, extending it through March 31, 2029.
Following the votes, the meeting adjourned after a full agenda that highlighted student achievement, employee dedication and continued investment in the school system’s facilities and operations.
CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — The City of Clarkesville has launched a search for a new city manager, the chief administrative officer responsible for overseeing the city’s day-to-day operations and guiding several key departments.
City officials announced that the mayor and the five-member city council are seeking qualified candidates to fill the leadership role. The city manager reports directly to the mayor and council and is responsible for supervising municipal departments including police, fire, finance, economic development, and zoning.
Although public works services — including water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, sanitation, and streets — are currently operated by a third party, those services still fall under the oversight of the city manager.
Clarkesville, the county seat of Habersham County, has a population of about 2,100 residents and operates with an annual budget of approximately $5.6 million. City leaders say the community continues to see growth in its business sector and has several major projects on the horizon, including property development initiatives and sewer infrastructure improvements.
Officials say they are seeking candidates with at least five years of progressive experience in city management and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a Master of Public Administration strongly preferred.
The city is also looking for candidates who demonstrate strong leadership skills and experience working with elected officials and navigating the political environment of municipal government. Applicants should be able to manage organizational change, develop community initiatives, and collaborate with regional partners.
Other qualifications include knowledge of municipal finances, including trend analysis and forecasting, strong organizational skills, effective communication abilities, and experience with or knowledge of water and wastewater operations. City officials also emphasize the importance of interpersonal skills and a commitment to customer service.
The position offers a salary range of $75,000 to $90,000 per year, and the successful candidate will be required to live in or relocate to Habersham County.
Applicants must submit a cover letter explaining how their experience aligns with the position requirements, along with their contact information and the contact details for three professional references.
Applications can be submitted to:
Julie Poole, City Clerk
Email: jpoole@clarkesvillega.com
Or by mail to:
City of Clarkesville
Attn: City Clerk
P.O. Box 21
Clarkesville, GA 30523
The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026.
March Madness is almost here, and Habersham News is inviting readers across Habersham County to join the excitement.
With Selection Sunday taking place tomorrow, the official NCAA Tournament bracket will soon be revealed, setting the stage for one of the most unpredictable and exciting sporting events of the year.
To celebrate the tournament, Habersham News is launching the 2026 Habersham News March Madness Bracket Challenge, a friendly competition where readers can test their basketball knowledge and compete for bragging rights — and a prize.
The winner of the contest will receive a $25 grand prize.
The contest is hosted using ESPN’s Tournament Challenge platform, which allows participants to fill out their own tournament bracket and track their picks throughout the NCAA tournament. ESPN’s bracket challenge lets fans create brackets, join groups, and compete to correctly predict the winners of the tournament’s games.
Once the tournament field is announced Sunday, participants can begin making their selections.
The first round of the NCAA Tournament begins Thursday, March 19, when the field of 64 teams begins competing for the national championship.
All brackets must be submitted before tip-off of the first game on March 19.
To be eligible to win, participants must:
👉 Join the Habersham News March Madness Challenge:
2026 Habersham News March Madness Challenge
One of the things that makes March Madness so fun is that upsets happen every year, and even casual fans have a shot at picking a winning bracket.
Whether you carefully analyze every matchup or simply pick teams based on gut feeling, the Habersham News bracket challenge is a great way to enjoy the tournament with others in the community.
Habersham News will also provide updates throughout the tournament, highlighting the readers whose brackets rise to the top of the standings.
So grab your picks, follow Habersham News, and get ready for the madness.
Good luck — and may the best bracket win.
CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — The Habersham County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting Monday, March 16, at 6 p.m. at the Habersham County Board of Education office.
The meeting will begin with the call to order, invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of the agenda and the minutes from three recent board gatherings: the Feb. 5 work session, the Feb. 9 regular board meeting, and the Feb. 26 strategic planning session.
Several recognitions are scheduled early in the meeting. The board will present the Peach State Federal Credit Union Extra Mile Award and the Peach State Federal Credit Union Service Above Self Award. Students who earned All-State honors in band and chorus will also be recognized, along with Kelly Gunn, a paraprofessional at Fairview Elementary School, who will receive special recognition for her service.
The meeting will also include an opportunity for public comment, followed by the board’s financial report and the superintendent’s report.
Board members are expected to consider several items on the consent agenda, including approval of per diem payments for board members attending the Feb. 5 work session, Feb. 9 regular meeting, and Feb. 26 strategic planning session, as well as field trip requests.
Among the items listed under new business are personnel recommendations, approval of the system’s financial report, and the appointment of the district’s 2026 Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) delegate and alternate.
Board members will also review several operational and facilities-related items, including the purchase of radios for school buses, a lighting upgrade at Raider Stadium, and the 2026 lawn maintenance contract.
Additionally, the board is scheduled to consider a one-year extension of Superintendent Patrick Franklin’s contract.
The meeting will conclude with adjournment following completion of the board’s agenda.
The Habersham County Board of Education meets regularly each month to oversee the operations, finances, and policies of the Habersham County School System.
Clarkesville, Ga. — Forty years ago today, a small group of volunteers, community leaders, and supporters gathered on a patch of land at the foot of Hood Street in Cleveland for what they hoped would become something much bigger.
On March 15, 1986, Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia broke ground on its first home, launching a mission that would go on to provide affordable housing for dozens of families across Habersham and White counties.
The ceremony marked the beginning of construction for Habitat’s first partner family — Mary Nicely and her four children — and symbolized the arrival of the global Habitat for Humanity movement in Northeast Georgia.
At the time, the effort was described as part of a “worldwide Christian organization providing low-cost, interest-free housing for poverty-level people.” The organization had just established its local headquarters in Clarkesville and was beginning its work with the help of volunteers, churches, civic groups, and donors throughout the community.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Rev. Gerald Peterson of St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Clarkesville, who served as master of ceremonies. Also participating were Bo Turner, then Habitat director and mayor of Clarkesville; Don Ricketts, president of People’s Bank and a representative of the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce; and Don Stanley, mayor of Cleveland.
Stanley even proclaimed the week of the ceremony “Humanity Week” in Cleveland, recognizing the significance of the project for the community.
Support for the effort quickly followed. During the ceremony, Habitat secretary and treasurer Joe Stapleton presented a $9,500 check to purchase the property where the first home would be built. Local residents Jerry Ward and Freddie Ward also contributed a $2,000 donation to support the project.
Habitat homes were designed to provide families with an alternative to traditional financing that might otherwise be unavailable. Families selected for the program were required to help build their homes alongside volunteers and commit to affordable monthly payments — typically $100 or less, including taxes, for up to 20 years — with no interest.
The original article emphasized that Habitat’s philosophy was not charity but partnership.
“Believing that what the poor need are co-workers, not caseworkers,” the organization’s literature explained, “Habitat forms a partnership with the poor. Habitat for Humanity is not a handout; it is people helping people help themselves so they may in turn help others.”
Forty years later, that philosophy continues to guide the organization’s work.
According to Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia, the organization has now built more than 82 homes in Habersham and White counties since that first groundbreaking in 1986. Today, Habitat homes #83 and #84 are currently under construction, continuing a legacy that began with the Nicely family nearly four decades ago.
The organization recently reflected on that milestone in a message marking the anniversary, recalling the excitement of that first groundbreaking and the community support that made it possible.
The headline of Habitat’s newsletter at the time read simply: “The Day Has Arrived and Everyone Is Invited.”
In many ways, that invitation still stands.
Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia continues to rely on volunteers, donors, and community partners to carry out its mission of building homes and strengthening families across the region.
Those interested in supporting Habitat’s ongoing work — whether by volunteering at a build site, donating, or learning more about upcoming events — can contact Executive Director Brian Young at director@habitatnega.org.
What began as a hopeful experiment on a Cleveland hillside has grown into a forty-year legacy of community partnership — one house, and one family, at a time.
The world grew quieter and the wind paused to honor the passing of Stacy Ann McGrath Mathis on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 while in Maui, Hawaii, a destination she chose for her final days.
She was the beloved daughter of the late John Joseph McGrath and Gloria Elvera Woltz McGrath. Stacy retired from NAPA Auto Parts after a long and dedicated career as a long-haul truck driver. She proudly became the first female driver at NAPA to drive solo, a milestone that reflected her courage, determination, and independent spirit. Her work took her across the country, allowing her to experience the beauty of countless places, but no place was ever more important to her than home and the people she loved. To know Stacy was to know a truly beautiful soul. Her heart overflowed with kindness, and she was a light in the lives of everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. She exemplified what it meant to love unconditionally, always offering support, encouragement, and warmth to those around her.
Of all the titles Stacy held in her life, the one she cherished most was “Mom.” Her daughter, Shannon, was her pride and joy, her greatest accomplishment and her truest companion. Their bond was one of deep love and unshakable connection, filled with laughter, shared tears, and everything in between. Stacy was Shannon’s rock, just as Shannon was hers.
Stacy spent months planning a special trip, not as a vacation but as a gift to her daughter and chosen daughters. Her last chapter was written, spending time in the sunlight, with good seafood, and an ocean breeze, without any other noise of the world.
She was reunited with her beloved husband, Bobby L. Mathis, whom she has missed everyday since his passing as well as her brother, Kevin John McGrath.
Survivors who will celebrate her memory include her daughter, Shannon Cagle, of Baldwin; as well as four step-children; and her brother, Shawn Francis McGrath, of Atlanta.
Stacy’s wishes were to be cremated and no formal services be held.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, South Chapel at 1370 Industrial Boulevard, Baldwin, Georgia 30511.
The cafeteria at Habersham Central High School was filled with excitement Saturday night as supporters gathered for a fundraiser benefiting the school’s athletic department. By the end of the evening, three winners walked away with a share of the $10,000 grand prize — and one of them gave the money right back to the cause.
The event drew a full crowd, with 300 tickets sold at $100 each, raising significant funds for the athletic departments at the high school and middle schools. Each ticket included steak dinner for two with salad, baked potato, and dessert. A silent auction also took place with close to one hundred items up for grabs.
After dinner, attention turned to the night’s main event — a suspense-filled drawing that kept the crowd on edge.
Each ticket holder was assigned a number, and a ball with the corresponding number was placed into a hopper. At the front of the cafeteria, three large whiteboards were divided into 300 squares, each displaying the name and number of a ticket holder.
As the drawing began, Habersham Central Athletic Director Geep Cunningham called out the numbers as balls were pulled from the hopper. With each number drawn, one of Cunningham’s assistants placed an “X” through the corresponding square, eliminating that participant from the running.
Slowly, the field narrowed as the whiteboards filled with X’s and the crowd followed along with growing excitement.
When the remaining numbers narrowed to 15, 10, then 5, additional numbers were auctioned off and added back into the mix. The sixth and last number was auctioned off for $2,000, giving that buyer a late entry into the final round. From there, the tension continued to build.
Under the rules of the reverse auction, when only five numbers remain, the participants must decide whether to split the prize or continue drawing numbers to eliminate players. If even one person wants to continue, another number is drawn. As the drawing narrowed to the final three numbers, the remaining participants chose to end the suspense and split the $10,000 grand prize evenly.
The three winners were:
Sheriff Krockum announced he would donate the Sheriff’s Office’s $3,333 share of the winnings back to the Habersham Central athletic department, adding even more support to the night’s fundraising effort.
As the event came to a close, Athletic Director Geep Cunningham said “The best thing about tonight, and I mean it with all my heart, is that I’ve got a room full of people that love Habersham athletics…they’re with you, they’re for you, they’re going to support you, and they prove it by what they do.”
With a room full of supporters, a hearty meal, and a dramatic finish, organizers considered the evening a major success in supporting Habersham Central’s student-athletes.
As winter fades and warmer days return to Northeast Georgia, many people start looking for ways to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Spring is one of the best times of year to explore the region’s scenic roads, trails, and countryside — and for some Habersham residents, that means getting back on the bike.
For those looking for both exercise and a chance to meet new people, one option is the Currahee Pedalers, a local cycling group that welcomes riders of many skill levels and interests.
The club’s leader, Jeremy Walker, says the group began as a small gathering of coworkers who simply enjoyed riding together.
“It started as a small group of coworkers who would meet after work and ride bikes,” Walker explained. “We’d ride mountain bikes over at Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area or take road bikes around the surrounding area.”
At first, the group was small — about 15 riders who coordinated their outings through a simple text chain. As they rode around the region, they began meeting other cyclists and inviting them to join.
“Whenever we met people riding, we’d tell them when we were riding and invite them along,” Walker said.
Eventually the group created a Facebook page, and membership began to grow. Interest surged even more during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people took up cycling as a way to stay active outdoors.
Around that time, the original manager of the Facebook group stepped away from organizing rides, and Walker took over leadership of the club around 2020 or 2021.
Since then, Currahee Pedalers has continued to expand.
“Over the years I’ve met a lot of cyclists at events and races,” Walker said. “People ask if we ride with a group, and I tell them about Currahee Pedalers. They look us up on Facebook and join.”
Today, the group regularly attracts 20 to 40 riders for some of its weekly rides, and members participate in road cycling, gravel riding, and mountain biking throughout Northeast Georgia and nearby South Carolina.
One of the club’s most popular gatherings is the Tuesday evening ride, which begins at 6 p.m. at Habersham Central High School.
Riders can choose from three different route options depending on their fitness level and goals:
Many cyclists also arrive early for a short warm-up ride.
“We usually show up about an hour or half an hour early and ride five to ten miles just to spin our legs before the main ride,” Walker said.
Another option for newcomers is the Monday Night Ride on River Road in Toccoa, which starts at 6 p.m. and is considered a more relaxed, beginner-friendly outing. The ride is organized by club member Stan Hotalen and is open to anyone who wants to come out and ride at an easier pace.
Walker says the group always welcomes new riders, and people of all experience levels are encouraged to join.
“We’re always open to new members,” he said.
While the Tuesday rides can sometimes be more fitness-oriented, Walker emphasizes that beginners can still find a place in the community.
“I know there are a lot of novice riders who just want to come out and ride without the pressure of keeping up,” he said. “I always encourage people to communicate on the page and connect with others who want a similar pace.”
The Currahee Pedalers Facebook group also allows members to post their own rides, giving cyclists more opportunities to find riding partners for everything from casual fitness rides to longer weekend adventures.
Those interested in riding with the group can join the Currahee Pedalers Facebook group, where rides and events are regularly posted. New riders can also reach out directly to one of the group’s administrators with questions before attending a ride.
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1854435748152914/
Walker says the club’s goal has always been simple: bring people together through cycling.
“We’ve met a lot of really great people over the years,” he said. “It’s a good way to stay active, meet friends, and explore new places on a bike.”
And with spring weather arriving across Habersham County, it may be the perfect time to start pedaling.
George Thomas “Tom” Perry, age 68, of Cornelia, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Born in Gainesville, Georgia on December 12, 1957, Tom was the son of the late James Howard Perry and Rebecca Ann Brown Perry. He was a proud graduate of Habersham Central High School, Class of 1975. Following graduation, Tom served his country honorably in the United States Navy as a Machinist Mate 3rd Class. During his time in service, he was awarded the Sea Service Ribbon and the Navy Expeditionary Medal in recognition of his dedication and commitment.
After completing his military service, Tom continued his education and graduated from Piedmont College where he earned a Master’s Degree in History and Psychology. While attending college, he also played on the baseball team, combining his love of sports with his pursuit of learning.
Tom enjoyed a life filled with simple pleasures. In his spare time, he loved spending time outdoors hunting and working with his hands through woodworking. He was known for his quiet strength, his deep appreciation for nature, and the pride he took in caring for and spending time with his family.
In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his great-grandson, Jasper Gallahan, and his niece, Courtney Cash.
Survivors include his loving wife of 15 years, Michelle Wilson Perry; daughters and son-in-law, Amanda Renee Weaver (Michael) and Kim Medlock; sister, Anne Perry Cash; grandchildren, Landon Weaver, Jared Edwards, Ava Daniel, Jessie Loudermilk, and Morgan Loudermilk; nephew, Kyle Cash and his family; along with other extended relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.
A memorial service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home with Dr. Kenneth Franklin officiating. Full military honors will be provided by the Grant Reeves Honor Guard.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour on Tuesday.
An online guest registry is available for the Perry family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
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