City commissioner Evan Hellenga was sworn in for another term and unanimously named the city's mayor for 2026 during the city commission's meeting on Monday, Dec. 22.

Open Arms clinic held a food drive last week that resulted in 60 boxes of food being given to families in need in Stephens County. Helping with the event were North Georgia Credit Union Vice President of Credit Administration Sonya Speed, Open Arms clinic executive director Sherry Beavers, Open Arms Marketing Director Vanessa Smith, volunteer Sam Raab, volunteer George Beavers, volunteer Alan Christ, Arwen Britton, and Open Arms Clinic board member DeLisa Christ.

The City of Toccoa discussed future water plant improvements during its meeting on Monday, Dec. 22.

The Toccoa Record

Within the past week, Open Arms clinic in Toccoa has received $25,000 from local entities to remain open, including a $20,000 donation from the North Georgia Community Foundation and $5,000 from Neighbors4Neighbors. N4N also pledged to donate $1,000 each month next year.

Supporters and members of the People’s First organization display some of the lap blankets made by Lanore Moore. They include (not in order) Caroline Roebuck, Dorothy Wiley, Shyresia Wiley, Tamepriacus Reese, Laura Roy, Justin Richie and Jeraldine Hayes. The blankets will be distributed to sick and elderly residents of Stephens County.

Northeast Georgia Physicians Group has moved urgent care to Big A Road. Dr. Mike Maley, a pediatic practitioner in Toccoa, is also making the move.

Toccoa police officer Timothy Kelly helps a family pick out items at the Shop with a Cop event at Wal-Mart in Toccoa on Saturday, Dec. 6.

Santa Claus came to downtown Toccoa on Friday night as part of the city’s annual ChristmasFest. He and Mrs. Claus set up a photo opportunity for parents and their children on Doyle Street during the festival. Getting their picture made with Santa Claus are Taylor Sidders, Sagi Sol, Xiius Sol, and Adaeus Sol.

The Toccoa Record