Local

Lauren Bowers and Mandy Brock of Hangry’s Grill show hotdogs similar to those for the Red, White and Tunes hotdog eating contest. (Samantha Sinclair/Staff)

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Want a hotdog?

News Staff

Friday, July 10, 2026

By Samantha SinclairRed, White and Tunes looks like the Fourth of July with its concert in the park followed by fireworks, but this year, in honor of America’s 250th birthday, another holiday tradition will be added — a hotdog eating contest.

Mike Tope

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Baldwin looks at leak adjustments

News Staff

Friday, July 10, 2026

By Samantha SinclairBaldwin is working to make its policy more fair for water customers.The city council discussed a new water and sewer billing adjustment policy at its meeting Tuesday night, and plans to make adjustments of its own before approving at an upcoming meeting.

DNR used sonar to locate Glass’ body on the eastern shore at the main channel of the Oconee River north of the confluence of Crooked Creek.

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Mt. Airy man drowns Friday in Lake Sinclair

News Staff

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

By Samantha SinclairA Mt. Airy man was found dead after a late night swim in Lake Sinclair in Putnam County Friday morning.Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills said David Hoyt Glass, 34, of Mt. Airy, is suspected to have drowned in the lake.

Samantha Sinclair/Staff

Glorious show

News Staff

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

The Miller family watches the 20-minute-long fireworks display at the edge of Demorest Springs Park Saturday night during the finale of the city’s Glorious 4th. The annual full-day Fourth of July celebration included a parade marching through downtown, activities in the park and a concert.

Capt. Ken Schubring Sr. holds the challenge coin President Donald Trump presented to him on July Fourth. (Submitted)

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Trump honors local veteran

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Wednesday, July 8, 2026

By Samantha SinclairA local veteran was a highlight of the Freedom 250 celebration in Washington, D.C. Saturday night.Capt. Ken Schubring Sr., one of the last remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, was honored by President Donald Trump in his July Fourth speech, and welcomed on stage at the event.

The inside of the old Crow building in Cornelia is vast, and perhaps perfect for a wine tasting room that is currently planned for the building. (Hannah Caudell/Staff)

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Renovations stall at future winery

News Staff

Friday, July 3, 2026

By Hannah CaudellMore time will likely pass before renovations on the old brick building next to Donald Anderson Park begin.Matt and Lindsey Vrahiotes of Sweet Acre Farms lease the property, and had plans of opening a wine tasting room.

Bobby York is related to at least nine Revolutionary War patriots. (Samantha Sinclair/Staff)

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Proud to be American

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Friday, July 3, 2026

By Samantha SinclairBobby York has nine reasons to be full of pride on the Fourth of July.He is related to nine men who served our country during the Revolutionary War.“All of these men are farmers, or blacksmiths,” York said.

Dr. Michele Shirley

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Shirley to lead NGTC

News Staff

Friday, July 3, 2026

By Samantha SinclairDr. Michele Shirley is once again leading the pack at North Georgia Technical College.Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) Commissioner Greg Dozier announced on Wednesday that Shirley was appointed interim president of North Georgia Technical College beginning July 1.

Fireworks explode high above the ballfield as firefighters and their families got front row seats to the show at Demorest’s Glorious Fourth of July last year. (Samantha Sinclair/Staff)

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Demorest’s Glorious 4th is Saturday

News Staff

Friday, July 3, 2026

by Samantha SinclairDowntown Demorest will be filled with red, white and blue Saturday for its annual Glorious Fourth of July celebration. Most festivities will take place at Demorest Springs Park, with the fireworks grand finale over the park this year.

Dr. Michele Shirley

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System names Shirley NGTC interim president

News Staff

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) Commissioner Greg Dozier announced on Wednesday the appointment of Dr. Michele Shirley as Interim President of North Georgia Technical College, effective upon the retirement of President John Wilkinson.Dr.