Author: Porkchop Branch

The Stephens County Land Use Regulations Committee has completed its work. Committee Spokesperson Cynthia Brown said the committee has settled on a draft land use plan that will be given to the county commission for its consideration. Brown said the regulations are simple and easy to understand. She said they cover every aspect of business, industry, agricultural, and residential issues […]

In Toccoa, Stephens county hospital announces cost-cutting measures that will affect the hospital’s employees.   Hospital Administrator Ed Gambrell announced  that effective December 1, employees making over $10 per hour will see a 5-percent decrease in pay.   In addition, Gambrell said the hospital will eliminate seven positions.   Gambrell says the decision comes as a result of continued financial challenges at the hospital […]

Today is the last day for donations for Operation Christmas Child. Donations have been going since last week in Lavonia, Hartwell, and towns across Northeast Georgia. Started by Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child is the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind. Henry Bridges is the Coordinator for Northeast Georgia. Bridges said the annual gift giving event brings Christmas joy […]

The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs has passed a bill introduced by Congressman Doug Collins of the 9th District, which includes Franklin and Hart counties, that will protect Isreal’s military advantage over its Middle East neighboors. House Resolution 1992, The Israel Qualitative Military Edge (QME) Enhancement Act, was  introduced by Collins, who is the Vice Chair of the Middle […]

2013 Election Coverage    Hartwell Mayoral Race   Brandon Johnson-395 David Little-149 Jennifer Scott-98 Mike Gordon-100   Hartwell City Council  Tray Hicks -413 Mary Beth Focer-240   (Billy Griggs, Billy Ethridge and Arthur Craft ran unopposed)   Hart County Board of Commissioners Jimmy Carey (unopposed)   Referendum for City of Bowersville SPLOST Modification Yes-1,185 No- 1,188   Hart County Referendum […]