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The News Observer

The News Observer

Fannin’s increased lodging tax passed by commissioners

Sydney Criteser
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
The Fannin County Board of Commissioners have officially passed the ordinance that will raise the county’s Lodging Tax, also known as Hotel/Motel Tax, from 5% to 6%. Post Two Commissioner Glenn Patterson said, “I think it’ll be good for the county.
Folks have a chance to help local children through Fannin County’s Shop with a Cop program as Serenity in the Mountains has partnered with the program to host a Christmas Tour of Trees to raise funds. Shown are, from left, School Resource Officer (SRO), program organizer Lieutenant Darvin Couch, SRO Sergeant Jim Burrell, Serenity owner Lynda Cole and Sheriff Dane Kirby.

Folks have a chance to help local children through Fannin County’s Shop with a Cop program as Serenity in the Mountains has partnered with the program to host a Christmas Tour of Trees to raise funds. Shown are, from left, School Resource Officer (SRO), program organizer Lieutenant Darvin Couch, SRO Sergeant Jim Burrell, Serenity owner Lynda Cole and Sheriff Dane Kirby.

Tour of Trees to give Shop with a Cop financial boost

Mollie Morrow
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
Benefiting Fannin County’s Shop with a Cop program, Serenity in the Mountains is hosting a Christmas Tour of Trees. The event will be held Sunday, November 29, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will allow patrons to bask in awe at 74 different Christmas trees.
The News Observer

The News Observer

Fannin High School graduation rate climbs to over 95%

Sydney Criteser
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
Fannin County High School has surpassed their four-year graduation rate of 93.91% for 2019 and achieved a rate of 95.2% for 2020. Georgia’s overall graduation rate for this year is listed at 83.8%, which is an all-time high for the state and an increase from last year’s rate of 82%.
The News Observer

The News Observer

Mayor cancels Blue Ridge meeting, tax bills delayed again

Mollie Morrow
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
The Blue Ridge Council’s special called meeting for Thursday, November 12, was canceled by Mayor Donna Whitener who said she feared a quorum would not attend. Councilwoman Robbie Cornelius was out of commission on vacation while Councilman Mike Panter was unable to attend due to illness.
Pawsitive Action Volunteer Amy Ulrich, left, and Founder Norma Ross promote the non-profit’s mission to provide service dogs to veterans in the community during an event Saturday, October 31.

Pawsitive Action Volunteer Amy Ulrich, left, and Founder Norma Ross promote the non-profit’s mission to provide service dogs to veterans in the community during an event Saturday, October 31.

Pawsitive Action matches needs of dogs and veterans

Sydney Criteser
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
Veterans are able to benefit from the help of a service dog, and dogs in need of homes are able to have one thanks to Pawsitive Action and the work they do in the community.
The News Observer

The News Observer

Still no hazard pay for Fannin responders

Sydney Criteser
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
Fannin County first responders will likely not see hazard pay until after the new administration takes office in January, following a heated exchange between members of the Fannin County Board of Commissioners Tuesday, November 10.
The News Observer

The News Observer

Community theater, arts group receive state awards

Mollie Morrow
Tuesday, November 10, 2020
Blue Ridge Community Theater and Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association has received the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDED) Georgia Council for the Arts’ Vibrant Communities grant awards to support programming for fiscal year 2021.
Fannin County Family Connection volunteer John Rutland hands off some coats raised through The New Observer’s annual Coats for Kids coat drive Thursday, November 5, at Family Connection’s facility.

Fannin County Family Connection volunteer John Rutland hands off some coats raised through The New Observer’s annual Coats for Kids coat drive Thursday, November 5, at Family Connection’s facility.

Volunteers distribute coats for kids

Mollie Morrow
Tuesday, November 10, 2020
The Humane Society of Blue Ridge cats of the week are Laurel and Hardy. This adorable sister and brother pair will win you over with their playful nature and the kisses they will give you. They are six months old and they love to be held. Laurel is spayed, Hardy is neutered, and both are microchipped and current on their rabies vaccinations. Contact the Adoption Center at 706-632-4357 for more information about Laurel and Hardy. They would love to become a part of your family.

The Humane Society of Blue Ridge cats of the week are Laurel and Hardy. This adorable sister and brother pair will win you over with their playful nature and the kisses they will give you. They are six months old and they love to be held. Laurel is spayed, Hardy is neutered, and both are microchipped and current on their rabies vaccinations. Contact the Adoption Center at 706-632-4357 for more information about Laurel and Hardy. They would love to become a part of your family.

Adopt A Pet

Mollie Morrow
Tuesday, November 10, 2020
The cute mix shown with Fannin County Animal Control officer J.R. Cornett, is this week’s featured pooch of the week! She has a short, red coat with a white chest. This gal is very loving and sweet. She was picked up in McCaysville October 23. Interested in adding this girl to the family?