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MCDONALD’S
- 61 MURPHY HWY BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512
- Phone Number: (828) 557-1579
- Permit Type: FS
- Last Inspection Score: 87
- Last Inspection Date: 07-12-2018
- For More Information Call: (706) 781-3824
March 27 UPDATE: Businesses closing and services
Featured Stories March 13, 2020
UNION COUNTY, Ga – As COVID-19 cases continue to grow, many businesses are adjusting their schedule to keep everyone safe during this national crisis. Below, you will find information about all closing announcements or hour changes.
Many stores and restaurants in the area are offering services that accommodate the CDC guidelines for all-Americans, you can find an up-to-date list in the business section. However, other businesses are closing for the foreseeable future.
Update: March 27, 2020
GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC SERVICES
- United States Forest Service has closed all campgrounds.
- Transfer Station is open regular hours. Just practice social distancing.
- Vogel State Park has closed all pavilions and isn’t allowing group gatherings.
- Union County Schools are closed until April 24.
- The courthouse is closed to outside traffic unless special permission is granted.
- Transit service suspended until further notice.
- Civic Center is closed to rentals.
- County Maintenance is operational full-time but is practicing social distancing.
- Union County Family Connection will not be in the office for the rest of the week (March 16 – 20) and ask people not to drop off food items until further notice.
- The Union County Commissioner’s office will be available by phone at 706-439-6000 or via email at [email protected]. Union County Commission March 24 meeting is canceled.
- Chamber of Commerce office is closed and all external membership meetings nad programs are postponed. Office staff is working remotely.
- Union County Geographic Information System (GIS) is available by phone at 706.439.6014 or email at [email protected].
- Union County Fire Department and EMA is closed to the public. The office is available by phone at 706-439-6091 or via email at [email protected].
- Union County Clerk’s Office is operating with limited access pursuant to the Order Declaring Judicial Emergency.
- District Attorney’s Office is maintaining essential operations in accordance with the Judicial Emergency. Anyone who visits the office will be required to use hand sanitizer and to confirm that they answer “no” to the five risk factor questions.
- Magistrate Court is closed until April 14, excluding essential business, call 706 439-6008 with questions.
- Probate Court is closed to the public but will continue doing business by mail or online. It is not accepting walk-in customers, issuing orders, or conducting non-essential hearings, trials, or services. If an emergency arises, contact the office by telephone to schedule an appointment. If anyone needs to renew their gun permit, the expiration date has extended until the end of the “emergency period.” New permits are not being issued at this time.
- Public Defender’s Office asks clients to call the Blairsville office to speak to their attorney or to make an appointment at 706.439.6006.
- Registrar’s Office is encouraging voters to cast ballots by mail for the May 19 primary, visit mvp.sos.ga.gov or contact the registrar at 706.439.6016.
- Senior Center is closed through the end of March.
- Tax Assessor’s Office is only accepting in-person applications for Homestead and Specialized Exemptions, Conservation, and all personal property reporting forms until April 1. They will also be accepted by mail. Field appraisers will still be visiting properties.
- Tax Commissioner’s Office is closed to public access. Tags can be renewed by phone and the office has waived the credit card fee for mail renewals. Tag renewals can also be completed at dor.georgia.gov. Mobile home property taxes are now due on June 1 and can be paid by phone or online at uniongatax.com. The credit card fee will apply.
- Alcohol permits can still be applied for and picked up, but people must call to make an appointment first. Only one person is allowed in the office at one time.
- Building and Inspection are allowing one person in the office at a time. Please call or email to schedule an inspection or ask questions. If you are applying for a permit, please call or email to set up an appointment.
- Union County Sheriff’s Office has limited public access to buildings and closed the jail. Video visitation is available at jailatm.com.
- CSRA Probation Services will be closed to the public, however, they may be reached by phone at 706-781-1882 during regular business hours Monday – Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- Community service work activity is suspended until further notice.
- Union County Historical Society has closed to the public.
- Blairsville City Hall has its walk-up window open and continuing normal hours of operation. Customers can also place payments in the night drop box, pay by phone by calling 706-745-2000 or online at www.blairsville-ga.gov. Council meetings will be held by teleconference and those wishing in joining can find the number prior to the meeting on the city website.
- Municipal court has been postponed until May 11.
- Police department will remain open, but ask the
- public to call in reports. Fines can be paid over the phone or online.
- Civic Center is closed for all rentals until further notice. Businesses inside the Civic Center are open by appointment only.
- Union County Extension/4-H is still open for business in the Civic Center. However, we will only be available by appointment only.
- Women’s Enrichment Center is closed for at least a week.
- Union General Hospital Child Care Services are now only available to children affiliated with the UGH System/medical community.
- Union County Public Library is closed until further notice. Wi-fi extends into the parking lot.
- Meeks Parks is a wi-fi hotspot.
- Notla Water Authority has closed the Drinking Water Laboratory lobby. Additionally, the credit card fee is waived and not “locking off water for this billing cycle.
- Union County Recreation Department has canceled all in-person classes, effective immediately due to concerns about the virus. However online classes will continue to be available to the public.
- Georgia Department of Corrections has suspended inmate visitation statewide.
- Georgia Supreme Court has declared a statewide emergency to halt all non-essential court business.
MEDICAL SERVICES
- Chatuge Regional Hospital – LOCKDOWN – until further notice. All doors will be locked and remain locked EXCEPT for main entry. NO VISITATIONS.
- Fannin Regional Hospital – NO VISITATIONS until further notice.
- Union General Hospital – LOCKDOWN – until further notice. All doors will be locked and remain locked EXCEPT for main entry. NO VISITATIONS.
- Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital – NO VISITATIONS.
EVENTS
- All organized Recreation events have been canceled. The civic center and all gymnasiums are closed.
- Union County Recreation Department’s Daddy Daughter Dance is canceled. Ticket holders will receive a call.
- 4-H Activities have been postponed until further notice.
- Eggs and Issues with Lamar Paris – Postponed
- Union County Pickleball Court Dedication – Postponed
- Misty Mountain Guild – Canceled
- Easter Egg Hunt – Canceled
- Cruise-ins on the square – Canceled until further notice.
- Meeks Park Pavilions and Choestoe Schoolhouse are not available for rent until further notice.
- All playgrounds and outside exercise areas are closed.
- Meeks Park is open for Walking Trails and Kayaking access for local residents only.
BUSINESSES
- All restaurants in the city and county have closed on-premise dining. Carry out, curbside, and drive-thru remain open.
- Gyms, salons, social clubs, amusement facilities, massage parlors, hair and nail salons, and any other similar facility under city jurisdiction are closed under the state of emergency ends.
- Businesses that provide “body care services which require physical contact between the provider and client, including but not limited to, barbering, hair design, cosmetology, massage therapy, body waxing, or nail care are closed until April 30 or the end of the state of emergency.
- The Hair Shoppe is closed until March 31 at least.
- Techwizards of Blairsville has closed for two weeks.
- The Hole in the Wall is closed
- Mike’s Seafood is closed.
- Home Depot is closing at 6 p.m.
- Cabin Coffee Company is offering order pick-ups and is limiting the number of people in their establishment to 25 at a time.
- Abide Coffee is closed.
- Zaxby’s has closed its dining room. The drive-thru window is still open.
- Dollar General is open exclusively to senior citizens during its first hour of operation.
- Castoff Pet Rescue Thrift Store is closed.
- Lunch Bell Shop is closed.
- Motor Sports Plus will allow customers to drop vehicles outside and then call in to discuss work. The 3 percent fee for paying over the phone is also waived.
- Copeland’s Burgers and Southern Eats is closed.
- Dan’s Grill is closing their dining area and utilizing curbside pick-up.
- Kenya L. Patton, Attorney at Law’s office opens by appointment until further notice.
- Blue Ridge Mountain EMC (BRMEMC) has closed the lobby and drive-thru window until Monday, April 6.
- Blairsville Skillet Cafe is offering curbside service for call-in orders. Customers need to notify the restaurant of their arrival by calling, and someone will bring their order out to them.
- G & G Bakery is offering pick-up and curbside services.
- Papa’s Pizza’s dining room is closed until April 1, but online ordering and takeout is still available.
- Walmart will be open from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. until April 28. First hour of operation on Tuesday is dedicated to senior citizens.
- Ingles will open at 7 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. and the in-store Starbucks will close at 8 p.m. Ingles has dedicated the first hour of operations on Tuesday and Wednesday to senior shoppers, first responders, and those with compromised immune systems.
- Chick-fil-a is moving to a drive-thru and mobile-only restaurant for the foreseeable future.
- Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe is open for carry out and curbside.
- Longhorn’s Steakhouse’s dining room is closed. Takeout and curbside are still available.
- Melissa’s Customs Cakes is open curbside and takeout options.
- Twisted Pizza is open for curbside and takeout options.
- Nani’s Restaurant is open for curbside and takeout options.
- Dixie Confexions is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- The Aviator Café is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- Blairsville Restaurant is encouraging drive-thru or curbside service.
- The View Grill is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- Sicily’s Pizza, Pasta & Subs is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- Huddle House is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- The Sawmill Place and Market is encouraging curbside and takeout options. Also beginning a meal kit program with more details to come.
- Downtown Pizza Company is encouraging curbside and takeout options. Also, selling pizza kits.
- The Sushi Shack is closed.
- Lala’s Kitchen – A Taste of Latin America is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- K & L Gyros is open for takeout.
- The Tin Roof Country Store & Creamery is encouraging curbside and takeout options.
- Wendy’s dining room is closed, encouraging drive-thru and curbside service.
- McDonald’s dining room is closed, encouraging drive-thru and curbside service.
- Taco Bell & KFC dining room is closed, encouraging drive-thru and curbside service.
- Beautiful Things is offering free local delivery and curbside service available with call-ahead purchase.
- Beads, Bags & Beyond is closed.
- Persaud Jewelers asks for customers to call ahead as hours may fluctuate.
- Sharon’s Fashions is closed.
- The Humane Society Thrift Store is closed.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore is closed.
- Sugar Magnolia Gifts & Interiors is closed.
- Pat’s Hallmark Shop is offering free shipping and curbside pickup.
- Blairsville Animal Hospital is only seeing patients at curbside unless there is an emergency. Pet’s prescription refills and dietary needs can also be filled from its online pharmacy, https://blairsvilleanimalhospital.vetsfirstchoice.com and shipped at no additional charge.
- American Cowboy Store is offering a drive up to the warehouse for pick up option for feed and supplies only.
- Nelson Tractor Company is offering curbside parts pickup.
- Sundance Gallery is closed, but offering online ordering and can ship or arrange a pick-up for items.
If you know of any additional closings, services, or hour changes, please email [email protected] and we’ll add the business to the list.
As of March 26, Union County doesn’t have a confirmed case of COVID-19. The Georgia Department of Public Health releases confirmed cases data, each day at noon and 7 p.m.
Off-leash dog park coming to Union County
Featured Stories February 13, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – After a year of lobbying to local government, The Paw Park Project and Union County Government have joined forces to bring an off-leash dog park to the community.
The park will be located across from the farmers market on 148 Old Smokey Road, and work has already begun. Union County Farmers Market expects the area to open in April.
The Paw Part Project has partnered with Tyler Veney and the Leadership Union Team for fundraising. Residents can reach out through the Paw Park Facebook page or email if they need more information about donations and volunteering. Those interested in contributing can expect a GoFundMe account to go up. The Paw Park acts as a 501c, so all contributions will be tax-deductible. The county government has also promised to match all donations.
Pet owners also have the option of purchasing a tree, bench, or memorial plaque for their past loved ones.
The announcement stated, “As you saw work is already underway a BIG THANKS to Lamar Paris and our county officials for hearing the needs of our community and making this project a reality.”
The park will be developed in three phases. Phases one directly relates to getting the park up and running: fencing, signage, water, dog waste stations, building a pavilion and clearing a walking trail.
Phase two “will be implementing a few pieces of agility equipment, planting some trees and installing benches.”
Phase three also pertains to agility equipment and possibly a splash pad.
However, all phases are subject to reaching fundraising goals.
The park will meet American Kennel Club standards of one acre of property with a four- to six-foot chain-link fence and double gate entry
Here’s a sketch of the park’s future layout.
The boy who made it possible
Gracian Sabo took the lead on this community service project and formed the Paw Park Project. He even started a petition to help secure grant funding if necessary. It garnered 486 signatures.
His boy scout troop joined in and pledged to support the project if it moved forward.
During the Paw Park Project and Sabo’s journey to build an off-leash dog park, they learned that the county created the fenced-in space in Meeks Park for dogs to rest. A true dog park never existed within the county.
Sabo has passionately championed the Paw Park throughout 2019.
Images courtesy of the Paw Park Project.
Roadways become impassable during winter storm
Community, News February 8, 2020
Blairsville, Ga. – Winter weather is taking its toll on our area and Union County is beginning to feel the brunt of the storm.
The Union County Sheriff’s Office is keeping citizens updated via Facebook and recently released a warning stating, “Roads in Union County are becoming impassable. There are several vehicles including tractor and trailers stuck in the roadway. Please stay off roads!!”
In neighboring Fannin County, Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Robert Graham explained the situation, ““The pavement was wet when the snow started falling, so the wet areas on our roadways have turned to ice.”
Roads in Union County are experiencing a similar condition with ice being reported under the thick layer of snow.
Union County Sole Commissioner Lamar Paris shared on Facebook, “Do not get on the highways. They are slick and dangerous.”
“It is foggy and the visibility is low and all highways are slick,” Paris continued emphasizing the importance of avoiding travel at the moment.
Paris urged people to not drive around sightseeing and to wait for conditions to ease up.
Union County Fire/Rescue and EMA are also confirming that there are multiple accidents in the county and that several roadways are being shut down.
All Union County emergency services are asking citizens to remain home at the moment, unless absolutely necessary to get out, and allow crews and personnel time to address issues and to try to make the roadways safer for travel.
FYN will bring you updates on the winter weather throughout the day.
Featured Image Courtesy of FYN viewer Doug Brown.
Author
Feb. 15 is a day of prayer for women of Union County
Community, Featured January 21, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – During the January Union County Commission meeting, Sole Commissioner Lamar Paris proclaimed Feb. 15, 2020 as a day of prayer for the women of Union County.
Cindy Bailey, of Notla River Baptist Association, spoke about the event being held all-day on the 15th at North Georgia Technical College (NGTC) Blairsville Campus as part of a global women’s prayer movement.
“As an answer to a lot of hurting people, especially hurting women throughout the country. The call came out at the National Day of Prayer that they should gather the women as Psalm 68:11 says,” stated Bailey.
NGTC will be take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is open to all women or women’s group. It is non-denominational and non-political. The event is purely to pray for women as part of the She Loves Out Loud movement. For those that can’t attend She Loves Out Loud is offering a free interactive livestream.
“She Loves Out Loud is a movement for all women who choose to love without judgement and to pray in earnest for the healing of America.”- She Loves Out Loud Facebook
The organization invites women to “pray in the Gap between trauma and triumph, anger and peace, [as well as] bitterness and forgiveness.”
“We’re there to pray for healing and hope for women: abused women, women who have been sex trafficked, [and] women who are seeking motherhood through fostering or adoption,” explained Bailey.
The first half of the event will focus on those special needs in Union County. The three areas that will be covered are suicide, mental illness, and community connectivity.
“Women throughout the ages have prayed,” said Bailey, “Prayed for the children they’re carrying. Prayed for the children that were born. Prayed for their husbands that have gone off to war. And likewise, on Feb. 15, women will be gathered together for the first time in prayer unity.”
Qualifying fees set, multi-unit development moratorium extended
Election, News January 22, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Qualifying fees have been set for Union County’s 2020 elections through a consent agenda meeting on Jan. 20.
The qualifying fees are as follows:
- Commissioner – $2,918
- Tax Commissioner – $1,492
- Clerk of Superior Court – $1,492
- Magistrate Judge – $1,492
- Probate Judge – $1,492
- Sheriff – $1,492
- County Coroner – $155
- County Surveyor – $54
- Board of Education – $108
FYN is awaiting confirmation on the qualifying dates.
Emergency Moratorium on Multi-family Unit Developments
The moratorium enacted on Aug. 6, 2019 was extended for 120 days from Dec. 4, 2019. The county is working with Georgia Mountains Regional Commission to establish wording for an ordinance and are waiting for this is be completed.
New Purchasing Manual
A new purchasing manual was approved that establishes purchasing policies and procedures for all departments and offices under Union County government. It went into effect on Jan. 21 and supersedes all previous instructions and policies. The new manual was needed to improve and update policies.
Firefighter Property Program (FFP) Cooperative Equipment
The FFP agreement between the Georgia Forestry Commission and Union County government was approved on Jan 20. The 5-year arrangement allows for local fire departments to use surplus military equipment for fighting fires and emergency services. Administrative fees will be $100 per transaction for non-titled property and $200 per transaction for titled property.
Also, the 2019 Local Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) of $13,033 was accepted with a 50 percent match for the Union County Fire Department.
Public Defender Services
Union County along with Towns, Lumpkin, White, and the Public Defender Office of the Enotah Judicial Circuit have entered into an Indigent Defense Services agreement. The cost to Union is $113,526.70 for 2019-2020. Additionally, Union has committed an extra $20,000 to have a public defender assigned to the county five days a week.
Warranty Deeds
The 9.502 acres of surplus property located on Hwy. 515 East was officially transferred to the Union County Development Authority. The deed was dated June 20, 2019.
The settlement statement and warranty deed of the 12.009 acres, used for soccer fields, confirmed the purchase of the property for $150,000. The fields will continue to be used for soccer fields and MUSA will make updates to the fields.
A quitclaim deed was also issued for the tract or parcels of land lying in land lots 285, 286, and 291 in the 9th district, 1st section of Union County, so the road department can begin servicing the road Madeline Way. When the subdivision was developed, it was agreed that if the road leading up to the subdivision was built to county specifications it would become a county road. However, the developer never contacted the county, so now the estimated 1.44 acres needed to quitclaimed to follow through with the agreement.
A consent agenda was necessary for the January commission meeting due to the Sole Commissioner Lamar Paris feeling under the weather during the regularly scheduled time.
County purchases soccer fields, MUSA plans to improve area
Community, News December 30, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, GA – Gooch Trucking has agreed to the county purchasing 12.009 acres of soccer fields by the old water plant off Mauney Road. Mountain United Soccer Association (MUSA) to lease area from county to offer soccer leagues in the community.
The land purchase and sale agreement between Union County and Gooch Trucking for the property amounted to $150,000.
“This is something that has been in the process for many months, said Union County Commissioner Lamar Paris. “The county had been trying to get a lease or agreement on those soccer fields for years.”
Before Gooch Trucking purchased the property, the owners of the land didn’t have an interest in collaborating with the county. They did leave the fields intact, however. After Gooch Trucking made the purchase of the old water plant and adjacent fields, the organization was open to suggestions for the area. Now, Panel Built has the plant building, and the county owns the soccer fields.
Currently, Union County Recreation Department (Rec. Dept.) doesn’t offer a soccer program, but MUSA provides the sport to citizens of the county. MUSA will lease the property for ten years and can now apply for grants and loans to develop the 12 acres to grow the program in Union. The Rec. Dept. will also help MUSA to clean up the soccer fields and get everything up to date.
“We’re excited about it. The soccer league is excited about it. [Panel Built] has agreed to help us anyway they can [to improve access into the property], stated Paris.
The purchase showcases the continued efforts provide renovated recreational facilities into the county with the recent construction of a double gym, pickle ball courts, and new pavilion at Meeks Park.
Copy of the property plat.
Old Fort Sorghum property up for sale
Community, Featured, News December 30, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In a Dec. 27, 2019 called meeting, the county officially transferred the Old Fort Sorghum Property to the Development Authority (DA). After researching the matter, Commissioner Lamar Paris decided the historic property offered “no foreseeable use” for the county.
The approximately .95 acres used to be the home of Union County’s yearly Sorghum Festival. Built in the early 1970s, many can remember working during the festival or taking field trips to the Fort. The Sorghum Festival moved to Meeks Park in the 2010s, and since then, most of the Fort has been taken down. Currently, the lot stands vacant.
“[The county] is usually buying property just in case we need it at some point in the future,” said Paris. “However, it’s been determined it’s in the best interest of the county to transfer this property to the Union County Development Authority for the purpose of being sold.”
The DA previously approached Paris about potentially transferring the property and felt it would be a good area for retail expansion of some sort.
DA Board Member Mitch Griggs attended the property transfer meeting on Dec. 27.
“Union County has looked at all options for this property for many years and other than a little event in the old building sometimes, nothing really regular [happens there],” stated Paris. In 2017, the county had the property appraised for $225,000, but the value might have increased since then.
DA can sell the property at market value and determine who ultimately buys it while the county would have to sell it to the highest bidder. The board and director of the DA meet and discuss who can purchase the property, what for, and at what price. The county and the DA must also decide on a percentage that the board will receive for selling the property. In the past, the DA has received between 10 and 15 percent for selling county property. Most of the money from the actual sale of the property will go to the county.
“We’ve had several people contact us about it,” explained Paris, “because of the demand, I got serious [about it]. It’s too far from the Civic Center to do a parking lot. It’s a long uphill climb to get to the Civic Center, and if it can benefit the community by providing a good business location, then that’s good.”
The public hearing concerning the transfer of Old Fort Sorghum occurred on Dec. 23 at 4 p.m. with no objections.
2020 Budget Hearing to be held on Dec. 23
Announcements, Police & Government, Press Release December 12, 2019
UNION COUNTY, Ga – Commissioner Lamar Paris invites citizens a public hearing concerning the 2020 budget on Dec. 23, 2019 at 4:30 p.m. in the Union County Courthouse.
Everyone’s invited to attend and offer opinions on the 2020 fiscal year. Here’s a PDF view of the proposed budget: Copy of 2020 Proposed Budget-Public Hearing Notice and Called Meeting
Copy of proposed 2020 budget which totals at $19,462,648.
Currently, Union County has proposed a $19,462,648 budget to cover operating costs for the coming year. However, this number could change before final approval.
Another public hearing concerning the transfer of land will be held beforehand at 4 p.m. at the courthouse as well. The county will be transferring surplus property to the Union County Development Authority. The land is property on Young Harris Street in the City of Blairsville also known as Old Fort Sorghum. Please send your comments either in the mail or email on the unioncountyga.gov site.
On Dec. 27, 2019 at 4:30 p.m., a called meeting will take place to adopt the budget and approve the transfer of property resolution.
TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week – Mason McCombs
Player of the Week, TeamFYNSports September 7, 2019
Union County junior Mason McCombs has been kicking since he first started playing football, and it showed Friday night as the Panthers hosted the Towns County Indians in Blairsville.
McCombs went 6-for-6 on point-after attempts, while kicking off for four touchbacks and catching a touchdown pass as the Panthers won, 60-7.
For his efforts, McCombs is the Union County Panthers Player of the Week.
“I’ve been kicking since I was seven or eight-years-old, but this is my first year kicking for the varsity team,”
McCombs said.
McCombs handles all the kicking duties for the Panthers, kicking off and attempting extra points.
He also plays wide receiver, where he caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from senior Pierson Allison in the second quarter. After he converted the extra-point try, McCombs and the Panthers led 28-0 early in the second quarter.
The touchdown catch was the first for the varsity squad for McCombs, who said he would always remember the play.
“I loved it. That’s my first touchdown catch and it was exhilarating,” McCombs said.
As for the game, McCombs gave all the credit to his teammates for the big win.
“They did amazing. We knew what we had to do, and we did it tonight. Our coaches tell us to get 1 percent better every practice, and I think we did that all week and we proved it tonight.”
County Accepting Donations for the Food Pantry
Announcements, Community December 18, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Donations for the local food pantry can be made at the courthouse, community center, library, and city hall.
The public can find two food buckets at the courthouse, one upstairs in the main lobby and one downstairs in the lobby by the Clerk of Superior Court’s Office. The other participating locations have just a single bucket located in easily accessible areas.
The pantry asks for non-perishable items, such as peanut butter, rice, canned soups/stews, dried soup packets, canned fruit, instant potatoes, canned tuna, canned vegetables, dry pasta, and dry milk.
Individuals can make donations through the first of the year. The holidays are an especially busy time for the food pantry and greatly depletes its on-hand stock. Union County Government Food Drive takes all the donations after the holiday season to help and replenish supplies for the following year.
It should also be noted that for anyone interested in making a donation, the courthouse will be closed on Dec. 24 and 24, as well as Jan. 1.
Photo courtesy of Union County Government Facebook Page.
Nantahala Village apartment fire ruled arson
Featured, News, Press Release November 13, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, GA – Fire Investigators with the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office, accompanied by their K-9, have determined a fire that occurred just before 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, at the Nantahala Village apartment complex was intentionally set.
“The arson occurred at the Nantahala Village Apartment Complex, located at 40 Nantahala Lane in Blairsville, Ga. The 20-year-old, 7,500 square-foot building is two floors with four apartments on each floor,” said Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King. “One unit suffered severe fire damage while the adjacent units suffered minor smoke damage. No injuries were sustained in the fire.”
Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King is asking anyone with knowledge about this fire to call the Fire Investigations Unit at 1‐800‐282‐5804. Rewards are offered of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the arsonist(s). Calls are taken 24 hours a day and callers can choose to remain anonymous.
The Union County Fire Department is assisting with this investigation.
Stay with Fetch Your News as this story continues to develop.
S.A.F.E. Makes Significant Strides Against Domestic Abuse
Community, Featured Stories September 9, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – S.A.F.E., also known as Support in Abusive Family Emergencies, has assisted over 309 individuals between July 2018 and July 2019 with significant plans to expand services in the near future.
S.A.F.E. Executive Director Molly Cousin broke down the 2018-2019 numbers, “Of these clients, 104 were outreach (not in the shelter), and 93 lived in the emergency shelter. Of these clients, 112 were children, and 76 were adults. We provided 14,350 services including 469 hotline calls.”
Over the next three years, the organization hopes to expand its shelter space to accommodate more children’s groups and activities. Additionally, S.A.F.E. wants to reach out to the Spanish population as well as educate others in the language. Finally, Cousin addressed a desire to expand awareness of the non-profit in Towns County.
Everyday Clever will play at the event.
One way S.A.F.E.’s hopes for their clients is at their 30th-anniversary event “Rock Against Violence” on September 21 at 6:30 p.m. at Copperhead Lodge. Entertainment includes the band Everyday Clever. Tickets are $10 for ages 16 and up and are available at S.A.F.E. Thrift Stores, Copperhead Lodge, www.safeservices.org, Selah Hair Salon, and Cone and Associates CPA’s Accounting and Tax Services.
“Currently, we have over thirty active volunteers who provide direct service, indirect service, work at the thrift stores or are on our board of directors. Since October 2018, we have received over $30,000 in community monetary donations and the community donated supplies increased significantly in the past year. We are very thankful for such strong support from the community,” stated Cousin.
S.A.F.E. began in 1989 to help those faced with domestic violence, child abuse, or sexual abuse in Union and Towns County.
What started as a 24-hour crisis intervention hotline and support group for women quickly became a grant-funded non-profit organization with support from law enforcement, the judicial system, and social service agencies.
In 1991, Blairsville Jaycees purchased a residence for S.A.F.E to use, and in May of 1991, it officially opened its doors to those in need. Since then, S.A.F.E. has continued to expand its facilities, opening a new facility that can house 16 individuals and meets all ADA and safety requirements, and provides space for all of the services currently offered.
In 2011, the Butterfly House Child Advocacy Center relocated from the S.A.F.E. house to property donated by Union General Hospital. The center allowed for families involved in custody cases to regularly spend supervised visits with their children.
A past client of S.A.F.E had this to say, “If it was not for the people at S.A.F.E. and the Butterfly House Child Advocacy Center’s visitation area, I would not get to see my child that I am working toward getting back to my custody. I was involved in a relationship that was full of domestic violence, and now thanks to everyone at both of these places I am headed in the right direction in getting me and my child back together.”
S.A.F.E. also offers women, children, and men legal advocacy, referral services, children’s programs, family violence assessments/case management, prevention education programs, sexual assault prevention and services, and a family support center program.
When asked about her experience with the organization, Cousin said, “I originally wanted to volunteer with SAFE and see what it was all about. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I am so happy it happened that way. The amount of work done on behalf individual client is certainly a lot, but it really changes your outlook on life when you see someone start out somewhat broken and leave successful on their own two feet.”
If anyone needs S.A.F.E.’s services, please call 706-379-3000. Volunteers can also be reached through the Union County Sheriff’s Office, police department, or email at [email protected].
Union County Middle softball blasts area-rival Fannin County
Sports, TeamFYNSports, UC Middle August 29, 2019
Blairsville, Ga. – Thanks to a big day at the plate, the Union County Middle softball team took down area-rival Fannin County, 11-3, Thursday, August 29, at Meeks Park.
The Panthers, who are 10-2 on the season, scored four runs in the bottom of the first and fourth innings to earn the five-inning, mercy-rule win.
Illa Bragg, Sloan Dyer, Layla Akins, and Aubrie Akins each drove in two runs, while Georgia Patton went 3-for-3 with two runs scored.
The Union County scoring started in the bottom of the first inning. The Panthers used a walk from Sierra Burnette, a single from Patton, and three stolen bases to earn the 1-0 lead when Burnette stole home.
Patton stole third, and Dyer walked and stole second to give Layla Akins runners on second and third with one out.
Akins delivered, driving a double to center and bringing in Patton and Dyer to give the Panthers the 4-0 lead to end the first.
Fannin County scored once in the top of the second, before Union County tacked on three more runs in the bottom of the frame.
The surge was in part thanks to a Patton single, a walk from Addison Kennedy, and a big triple from Bragg that pushed the score to 6-1. Bragg scored a batter later as Burnette smacked a groundball out to shortstop and moved the score to 7-1.
The Lady Rebels managed to score in the top of the third, hold the Panthers scoreless in the bottom of the inning, and add another run in the top of the fourth.
With the score 7-3 in the bottom of the first, the Panthers put up their second four-run inning of the night.
Patton, Kennedy, Dyer, Aubrie Akins, and Jewel Massey all singled, while Bragg doubled and Dyer added a stolen base to extend the lead to 11-3 headed into the top of the fifth inning.
Bragg struck out the first two Fannin County batters in the inning, issued a two-out walk, and then got the final batter to pop-out to catcher Kennedy in foul territory to end the game on the five-inning mercy rule.
The Panthers next host Lumpkin County, beginning at 4:15 p.m., September 3. Union has faced Lumpkin before this season, beating the Lady Indians 14-2 in Blairsville on August 8.
Back to School for UCS Students on August 7
Panther's Corner August 5, 2019Blairsville, Ga – Union County (UCS) students head back to school this week on Wednesday, August 7 for the 2019-2020 school year.
For parents wondering about start and end times for each school, here they are:
- Union County Primary School (UCPS) – 8:15 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
- Union County Elementary School (UCES) – 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Union County Middle School (UCMS) – 7:50 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Union County High School (UCHS) – 7:50 a.m. to 3:17 p.m.
- Woody Gap K-5 – 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Woody Gap 6-12 – 7:50 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Alternative School – 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
UCPS also has a freshly paved car-pick up line and privacy fencing along the playground.
To help keep traffic moving, UCS Police Chief Chad Deaton stated, “We’re probably going to beef up [SRO presence] the first couple days with some part-time guys to help us with traffic those first few days and add some drop-off zones.”
UCS also has a district-wide dress code that prohibits facial piercings and unnatural hair colors, gym clothes outside of PE, crop tops, and other items.
Dress code to help with back to school shopping.
Meet Your Teacher is Monday, August 5 from 3 to 6 p.m.
Good luck to all the students, teachers, and parents as they get back into the school routine!
July Public Health Inspection Scores
Health August 6, 2018
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LAKESIDE INN
- 46 EL JOE RD BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512
- Phone Number:
- Permit Type: TA
- Last Inspection Score: 94
- Last Inspection Date: 07-11-2018
- For More Information Call: (706) 781-3824
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LOOKOUT WAFFLES, LLC D/B/A WAFFLE HOUSE #1699
- 8 HIGHWAY 515 BUILDING B BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512
- Phone Number: (706) 745-3174
- Permit Type: FS
- Last Inspection Score: 78
- Last Inspection Date: 07-10-2018
- For More Information Call: (706) 781-3824
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BREAD & BLEU
- 305 MURPHY HWY UNIT D BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512
- Phone Number: (770) 310-3112
- Permit Type: FS
- Last Inspection Score: 96
- Last Inspection Date: 07-09-2018
- For More Information Call: (706) 781-3824
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STARBUCKS – INGLES # 98
- 43 HIGHWAY 515 UNIT B BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512
- Phone Number: (828) 669-2941 ext.
- Permit Type: FS
- Last Inspection Score: 100
- Last Inspection Date: 07-06-2018
- For More Information Call: (706) 781-3824
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BLAIRSVILLE HISTORIC DINER
- 12 TOWN SQ STE B BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512
- Phone Number: (706) 745-5888
- Permit Type: FS
- Last Inspection Score: 92
- Last Inspection Date: 07-02-2018
- For More Information Call: (706) 781-3824
Union County Sheriff’s Office Arrest Report 07/09 to 07/15
Arrest Reports July 18, 2018
Arrest report provided by the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. 50-18-70) allows for www.fetchyournews.com to obtain and post the arrest records of any and all individuals arrested in Union County GA. Those arrests are posted on www.fetchyournews.com for viewing pleasure. Please remember that all individuals listed have been arrested and charged, however, they are presumed innocent until guilt has been proven in a court of law.
