News
Blue Ridge Kiwanians Becky Callihan, left, and Sherry Morris stop passing out necklaces for a quick photo during the Old Timers’ Parade. The event was held Saturday morning, July 3, in downtown Blue Ridge as the annual celebration of America’s Independence kicked off. The parade was sponsored by the Blue Ridge Business Association. Don’t miss next week’s edition of The News Observer for more pictures from the parade and many other celebration activities.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!
Hackers targeting wire transfers
Vietnam veteran Ken Campbell joined the Air Force in 1966 and served as a jet engine mechanic for six years.
Hometown Heroes
Darrell Payne was honored at the Fannin County Board of Commissioners meeting Tuesday, June 23, when he officially announced his retirement after 38 years with the county Emergency Medical Service. Shown after Payne was presented a gift are, from left, front, Fire Chief Larry Thomas, Emergency Management Agency Director Robert Graham, Payne and his wife Tammy, new EMS Director Becky Huffman, outgoing 911 Director Patrick Cooke, and, back, Post 1 Commissioner Johnny Scearce, Commission Chairman Jamie Hensley
Payne retires after 38 years with EMS
Fannin County firefighter Jacob Queen uses a specially designed rescue tool to cut through the windshield of a car. This was part of an extrication refresher course taught last week that 18 Fannin firefighters attended.
Fannin’s ISO rating improves
Submitted photo The Humane Society of Blue Ridge cat of the week is Bubba Earl. He is a one-year-old handsome little guy who oozes sophistication. His cute, squeaky meow will win you over in no time! Bubba Earl loves people, and he gets along with other cats as long as they understand he is the boss. He is neutered, microchipped and current on his vaccinations. Contact the Adoption Center at 706-932-4357 to set up a meet and greet with this very cool cat.
Cat of the week
This female Great Dane mix was picked up on Indian Forest in Blue Ridge Thursday, June 17. She is very sweet and has a dark chocolate coat. View her using intake number 195-21. Giving her lovings is Volunteer of the Month Debi Holcomb.
Adopt A Pet
Jaelyn Breaux shows off her work during Pleasant Hill Baptist Church’s Vacation Bible School Wednesday, June 9.
PLEASANT HILL BAPTIST CHURCH HOSTS VBS
Submitted Photo Kenna Verner, a rising senior at Fannin County High School, won second place in the 2021 9th District Congressional Art Competition. A reception was held at Congressman Andrew Clyde’s office in Gainesville, Georgia, Wednesday, June 9. Verner and Clyde are shown at the event.