Flood Warning Issued For Chattooga River

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The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for the Chattooga River at Summerville, effective from Thursday afternoon to Friday afternoon. Minor flooding is expected in the area. The river is forecast to exceed its flood stage of 14 feet early Thursday afternoon, cresting at an estimated 15.9 feet tomorrow evening before receding below flood stage late Saturday morning.

As of 7:45 PM EST Wednesday, the river stage was at 5 feet and rising. According to the NWS, at 16 feet, minor flooding will continue and expand further into woodlands and fields along the river both upstream and downstream from the U.S. Highway 27 (Rome Boulevard) gage. Residents and landowners in these areas are urged to take necessary precautions. The forecast for today calls for a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 AM, with mostly cloudy skies gradually clearing to sunny conditions.

The high will be near 52 degrees with northwest winds gusting up to 20 mph. Tonight will be mostly clear with a low around 27 degrees and north winds around 10 mph, also with gusts up to 20 mph. Friday will bring mostly sunny skies and a high near 55. Forecasters are also monitoring another storm system expected to bring heavy rainfall and scattered thunderstorms to the area from late Saturday into Sunday.

There is a risk for severe storms associated with this system, and river flooding may linger through the weekend into early next week.

First Annual Chattooga County Health Fair Offers Free Screenings & Resources

Chattooga County residents are invited to attend the First Annual Chattooga County Health Fair on April 12, 2025, from 8:00 AM to Noon at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center, located at 40 Middle School Rd. in Summerville.

This FREE event, organized by the Community Resource Center of Chattooga, AdventHealth, the Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition, the University of Georgia Extension, Chattooga County Department of Public Health, Chattooga Family Connection, and Atrium Health, will offer a variety of healthy screenings and educational resources. Five health education vendors will be on-site to provide valuable information and support. A key offering at the fair is FREE mammogram screenings for eligible women. To qualify, individuals must be over 40 years of age and have NO insurance coverage. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 706-509-6840, Option 1.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take proactive steps towards your health and well-being!

Area Wrestlers Headed for State Championships

The Trion High School wrestling team is sending a powerhouse contingent of nine wrestlers to the 2025 GHSA Traditional Wrestling State Championships! After a season of grit and determination, the Bulldogs have earned their place among the state’s elite and will compete February 13-15 at the Macon Centreplex. The nine Bulldog grapplers representing Trion at the 1A State Tournament are: Sammy Edgeworth (106 lbs), Lane Broome (113 lbs), Silas Mills (120 lbs), Jason Jenkins (126 lbs), Logan Potts (132 lbs), Coleman Lee (144 lbs), Clayton Loughridge (157 lbs), Brandon Chandler (175 lbs), and Lane Harris (190 lbs). Their hard work and commitment throughout the season have culminated in this well-deserved opportunity to compete on the biggest stage. Wrestling enthusiasts can show their support by purchasing tickets exclusively on GoFan. For those unable to attend in person, all matches will be streamed live on the NFHS Network through TrackWrestling. Good luck to the Trion Bulldog Wrestlers in Macon.

The 2025 Traditional Wrestling State Championships, presented by the U.S. Army, are set to kick off February 13th at the Macon Centreplex, promising three days of intense competition and thrilling matchups. Wrestlers from across the state of Georgia will converge to battle for coveted state titles. Among those vying for victory are three talented athletes from Chattooga High School: Gavin Carlton, Fletcher Crowe, and Bryson Rutledge. These wrestlers have proven their mettle throughout the season, consistently demonstrating the skill and dedication necessary to reach the pinnacle of high school wrestling in Georgia. While the Chattooga team is well-represented, they will unfortunately be without Landon Carlton, who is sidelined due to an injury. Fans eager to witness the action can purchase tickets exclusively through GoFan. For those unable to attend in person, all matches will be streamed live on the NFHS Network via TrackWrestling, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the tournament. The Chattooga community extends its best wishes to Gavin Carlton, Fletcher Crowe, and Bryson Rutledge as they represent the Indians at the state level.

Floyd County Man Claims Police Fabricated Evidence Leading to Wrongful Imprisonment in 1996 Murder Case

A man from Floyd County, Joshua Cain Storey, who spent 26 years in prison, claims that investigators created false evidence and hid proof that could have cleared him during a 1996 investigation into the death of Brian Bowling. Storey filed an amended complaint, arguing that Floyd County police violated his constitutional rights during the investigation.

His original complaint was filed in December in U. S. District Court. The lawsuit states that investigators alleged Bowling’s death was a murder related to snitching rather than an accident, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. Storey confessed to the shooting after a long interrogation without legal representation, influenced by promises from police.

The lead investigator, Harry Dallas Battle, was fired in 2007 for unrelated accusations, while another investigator, David Stewart, is still on the job. The lawsuit also mentions Craig Burnes, the coroner, who allegedly fabricated evidence and failed to perform an autopsy, later being convicted for fraud. In 2021, the Proof podcast, hosted by investigative journalists Susan Simpson and Jacinda Davis, revisited the case. The Floyd County District Attorney’s Office later reviewed the new findings and dropped murder charges, leading to Storey and Clark’s release.

In 2022, Storey pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter under Georgia’s First Offender Act, leading to a maximum 10-year prison term. He apologized to the Bowling family for bringing a revolver and playing “Russian roulette,” which resulted in Bowling’s death. Clark, linked to the crime through alleged coerced testimony, seeks compensation for alleged civil rights violations due to county policy failures.

Property Dispute Between Siblings Lands Summerville Couple In Jail

A property dispute between two couples escalated into arrests last week on Raccoon Creek Road, according to a report released by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to a call on Friday, February 6th, 2025, at 111 Raccoon Rd. regarding a domestic disturbance involving Mike and Kay Fulmer and Dorothy and Calvin Brooks.

The Sheriff’s report indicates the couples have been embroiled in an ongoing dispute concerning the ownership and/or usage of the residence at the address. Kay Fulmer and Calvin Brooks are reportedly siblings.

Upon arrival and investigation of the incident, deputies determined that Calvin Brooks was the primary aggressor. He was subsequently arrested and charged with simple battery, then transported to the Chattooga County Jail. According to the report filed by the responding officer, while deputies were escorting Mr. Brooks to the patrol vehicle, Dorothy Brooks allegedly made a verbal threat against Mike Fulmer. The officer stated that while walking behind Mrs. Brooks towards his patrol vehicle, he overheard her say to Mr. Fulmer, who was standing near his vehicle, “I will kill you” in a “very stern and intentional tone” while looking directly at him.

Dorothy Brooks was immediately placed under arrest for terroristic threats and acts. Both Calvin Brooks and Dorothy Brooks were booked into the Chattooga County Jail.

ICE Meeting With Floyd County Sheriff's Office Draws Lots Of Interest From Community

A routine hearing for stakeholders about the partnership between the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) drew strong community interest on Wednesday. The training room was full, with people expressing fear and confusion over recent immigration raids in the U. S.

Concerns arose after a public notice for the annual 287(g) meeting was posted at the jail. This program, started by former sheriff Tim Burkhalter in 2018, requires jail staff to notify ICE when processing undocumented individuals. ICE program manager Michael Martin clarified that deputies do not conduct raids, traffic stops, or deportation actions.

Every three years, the meeting is held to improve oversight, address concerns, and promote transparency. In 2023, there were 91 encounters with detainees, with 14 identified as convicted criminals, and in 2024, there were 93 encounters with 10 identified criminals.

WRGA

Northwest Georgia Center For Independent Living Announces Open House & Silent Auction

The Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living (NWGA CIL) is excited to host its Open House and Silent Auction on February 26, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at its location at 527 Broad Street, Suite 101 in Rome.

This event invites the community to learn about the CIL’s important services aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities. Attendees will have the chance to meet the staff, tour the facility, and explore the free services available in 18 counties, including Chattooga and surrounding counties, through services such as advocacy, peer support, and skills training.

The Silent Auction aims to raise funds for the CIL’s programs and services, and the organization is seeking donations such as gift cards, jewelry, and home goods. A spokesperson emphasized the community’s role in supporting free services for individuals with disabilities. Donations can be dropped off at the center or arrangements can be made for pick-up. For more information, visit their website here.

AAA: Dark City Roads Are Deadliest For Pedestrians At Night

New research finds pedestrian fatalities occur disproportionately in socially and economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research shows a worrying rise in pedestrian deaths in the United States, with fatalities increasing by over 80% since 2009. Most of these deaths occur after dark on major roads outside towns and cities, which have high traffic, few stops, multiple lanes, and access to key areas.

Key findings indicate that more than half of pedestrian fatalities happen more than 4 miles from downtown, often in socially and economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. People in these areas may rely on walking for transportation but face unsafe conditions with poor lighting and limited safe crossings.

Montrae Waiters from AAA highlights the need for local leaders to cooperate to improve safety for both pedestrians and drivers. To enhance pedestrian safety, AAA recommends several steps. They suggest using data to identify the most dangerous areas and focusing resources there. Collaboration between state and local governments is crucial, and a Safe System approach that considers all aspects of road use can help reduce crashes.

Drivers should minimize risky behaviors, remain alert, and drive carefully at night. Pedestrians can increase their safety by wearing visible clothing, using sidewalks and crosswalks, obeying signals, and staying alert while crossing the street.

Senior Center Hot Dog Fundraiser February 21st

The Chattooga Senior Center, located off Farrar Drive, is inviting the community to join them for a hot dog fundraiser on Friday, February 21st, from 10 AM to 2 PM. The fundraiser aims to raise much-needed funds for the center’s senior programs and activities. For just $10, attendees can purchase a lunch plate featuring a mouthwatering hot dog, crispy chips, creamy slaw, a classic Little Debbie cake, and a refreshing drink. All proceeds from the event will directly support the seniors at the center, contributing to the funding of bingo prizes, craft supplies, exciting trips, and a variety of other engaging activities. To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, preorders are encouraged. Community members can place their orders by calling 706-857-5001 between 8 AM and 2 PM the day before the event. Come out and support the Chattooga Senior Center while enjoying a tasty lunch! Your participation will help enrich the lives of local seniors and contribute to a vibrant and supportive community

Name Of Pedestrian Fatality Released

On Wednesday evening, the Chattooga County Coroner’s Office released the name of a man who was struck and killed by an oncoming vehicle on Highway 27 in Trion on Monday night. Coroner Jeremy McElhaney  confirmed that the identity of the victim killed after being struck by a vehicle Monday night is 56 year old Andy Lamar Hines – listed as homeless from Chattooga County. The investigation into the fatal accident is still ongoing.

Accident In Mountain View Wednesday Night

A single-vehicle accident on Mountain View Road at Adams Road in Trion caused a temporary lane closure Wednesday night. The incident involved a vehicle that overturned into a culvert, resulting in water entering the vehicle. Initial reports indicated possible entrapment, but a passing pedestrian stopped to assist the driver before emergency responders arrived. The Trion Fire Department arrived on the scene shortly after, and firefighters successfully and safely extricated the driver from the wrecked vehicle. The accident is still under investigation.

Gov. Kemp Appoints Lamb As Director Of GEMA / Homeland Security

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced the appointment of Josh Lamb as the new director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS).

This follows the departure of previous director Chris Stallings. Governor Kemp expressed gratitude to Lamb for taking on this important leadership position, crucial for the safety and recovery of Georgia’s communities, especially after Hurricane Helene and other storms.

Lt. Col. Josh Lamb, previously the Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Public Safety, has a strong background in law enforcement, starting his career in 1996. He has held various roles throughout his career, including sergeant and SWAT team member. He holds a master’s degree in public administration and has completed the FBI National Academy. Lamb and his wife, Alison, have two daughters, Kenley and Karson.

State Rep. Eddie Lumsden's Weekly Legislative Report - Week Four

The Georgia House of Representatives resumed on February 3rd for the fourth week of the 2025 legislative session, marking Legislative Day 10. The focus is on passing a balanced budget, which was approved with bipartisan support. This budget totals $40. 5 billion and includes $2. 7 billion in surplus funds for education, healthcare, and public safety. Key allocations include funding for Hurricane Helene recovery, $145 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund, and support for rural hospitals. There are also investments in housing and school security. The budget will go to the Senate for review. Additionally, House Bill 268 addresses school safety by creating a safety database and establishing mental health coordinator positions. You can read State Rep. Eddie Lumsden’s complete legislative report below:

Legislative Update -Week Four

The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the State Capitol on Monday, February 3rd to begin the fourth week of the 2025 legislative session. With Monday marking Legislative Day 10, my colleagues and I are now more than a quarter of the way through the 40-day session. As we settle into the rhythm of our legislative work, our attention is shifting toward the policy areas that will shape our priorities for the remainder of the session. This week, our efforts were focused on fulfilling our constitutional duty to pass a balanced budget. To that end, the House Rules Committee convened for the first time this year and set the first Rules calendar of the session. House Bill 67, the Amended Fiscal Year (AFY) 2025 budget, which outlines the state’s spending through the end of the current fiscal year, ending June 30, 2025, was added to the calendar for a full vote by the House and passed that day with bipartisan support.

The House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget is set by a revised estimate of $40.5 billion, including $2.7 billion in surplus funds for a total infusion of $4.4 billion, which is an increase of 12.2 percent over the original Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget. The House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget emphasizes strengthening Georgia’s economy while also prioritizing early education, healthcare, higher education and public safety. One of the most critical areas addressed in the House’s version of the amended budget is the urgent need to provide ample relief and funding for Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene. In light of the widespread devastation caused by the storm, it is essential that we continue to direct the necessary resources toward relief and recovery efforts for those who were affected. Our state’s budget remains robust, and in the following paragraphs, I will highlight some of the House’s recommendations and how they may impact our state and communities.

As we witnessed severe damage to parts of our great state, the House worked tirelessly to help communities recover and rebuild from Hurricane Helene. As such, the state allocated immediate funding to hard-hit areas, and the House’s version of the amended budget targets populations and areas that still are in need of financial intervention. In line with Governor Brian Kemp’s recommendations, the House’s version also recommends $145 million be added to the Governor’s Emergency Fund in order to continue funding our state’s emergency response efforts to the storms. The House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget would also ensure that the Georgia Department of Transportation be protected from the financial impact of the motor fuel tax suspension following Hurricane Helene by redirecting the lost $98 million into the Capital Construction program. In addition, the House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget recommends $200 million be allocated to routine maintenance for response efforts related to Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Debby and flooding that took place in November 2024. The House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget also includes $100 million in previously authorized funds through the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission for relief efforts, along with an additional $150 million to support disaster relief for farmers and timber producers affected by Hurricane Helene.

Furthermore, the House’s version of the amended budget directs $50 million for the Department of Administrative Services’ property risk pool to repair state property damaged in Helene’s wake. The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene was vast, with countless homes, businesses and infrastructure left in ruins. Many Georgia families are still struggling to rebuild their lives and property after the storm’s destruction, making this funding essential for supporting recovery efforts and restoring state assets. In support of fire and environmental safety efforts, HB 67 would also direct $15.7 million to the Georgia Forestry Commission to fund the use of firefighting helicopters and environmental cab tractors.

Following the storms, rural Georgians are facing barriers to accessing quality healthcare and challenges in receiving timely medical care. To resolve this concern, the House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget provides $35.6 million in one-time stabilization grants to support Georgia’s rural hospitals in their recovery efforts. Moreover, the House’s version of the amended budget includes $1.4 million for a $3,000 salary enhancement for federal eligibility caseworkers, recognizing their hard work and dedication to assisting natural disaster victims. These caseworkers play a vital role in helping Georgians navigate the complex process of securing disaster relief, and it’s important that their efforts are acknowledged. In the original FY 2025 budget, passed last session, other caseworkers received similar salary increases, underscoring Georgia’s commitment to providing continued support to those who serve our communities in times of crisis. Additionally, the House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget includes $10 million in grant funds specifically allocated for relief from Hurricane Helene, further reinforcing the state’s commitment to aiding in the recovery of those impacted by the storm.

As we move forward in rebuilding our communities, it is crucial that we also ensure our economy is equipped with the necessary tools to maintain Georgia’s status as the number one state to do business. In line with our commitment to supporting rural communities, HB 67 would allocate $28 million to rural workforce housing through grants and loans. This funding aims to boost rural workforce development by increasing housing availability in these areas. Additionally, the House’s version of the amended budget recommends $20 million in grants for rural site development, which would support local economic growth and help communities create development-ready sites.

My colleagues and I remain committed to school security, and the House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget includes $50 million for school security grants, which would provide $21,635 per school for one-time security expenses. When combined with the $109 million in base funding, school systems would receive a total of $68,759 per school in FY 2025. Additionally, $3 million is allocated to the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) to establish funds for a school risk assessment system, with the objective of safeguarding our state’s young learners. Under HB 67, the House proposes $7.42 million in new lottery funds for the Department of Early Care and Learning to implement recommendations from the House Early Childhood Education Working Group. These recommendations include raising pay for Pre-K lead teachers and assistant teachers to align lead teacher salaries to the State Board of Education schedule and strengthening the Pre-K workforce. Additionally, the House’s version of the amended budget would allocate $160,000 in one-time funding to the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement to establish a Regional Crisis Recovery Network in partnership with the Southern Regional Education Board. This network would train counselors and deploy them to provide psychological first aid to students following traumatic events, such as natural disasters or school shootings.

In addition to prioritizing access to healthcare in Georgia’s rural communities, the House’s version of the amended budget is also focused on improving healthcare access across the entire state, ensuring that all Georgia communities have the care they need. One way the House is prioritizing this goal is by recommending a one-time $25 million investment for Mercer School of Medicine, aimed at expanding learning opportunities and training physicians to practice in rural, underserved communities where healthcare needs are most critical. Additionally, the House proposes another $25 million investment for Morehouse School of Medicine, which would support faculty recruitment and retention, modernize the medical curriculum and expand the pathway and career academy program. Furthermore, the House’s version of the AFY 2025 budget recommends $2 million be allocated to the HOPE Grant program, which would support increased usage and expanded eligibility, as well as an additional $6 million for HOPE Scholarships, bringing the total appropriation to $852 million, which would benefit more than 300,000 students across the state.

The House’s version of the amended budget also focuses on providing funding increases for several state departments. Under HB 67, the Georgia Department of Human Services would receive $22.2 million to address the growth in foster care and the rising costs associated with that care. Additionally, the House recommends $1.7 million to fund a special victim’s unit within the department, which would be focused on rescuing foster youth from sexual exploitation. The House’s version of the amended budget also allocates $1 million to the Georgia Department of Veterans Services to open a sub-acute unit for veterans with severe mental illness and brain injuries, along with $1.5 million to cover rising healthcare costs at veterans nursing homes.

The House is also dedicated to addressing the critical needs within Georgia’s corrections system, including correctional officers, staff and inmates, which remains a top priority this legislative session. As such, the House’s version of the budget recommends an infusion of $333.6 million for the Georgia Department of Corrections, including $214 million earmarked for safety, security and technology upgrades, with $35 million allocated specifically for security technology to combat contraband. Additionally, the House recommends directing $50.6 million for inmate healthcare services and $15 million for the creation of a state-owned electronic healthcare records system. Further, $10.5 million would also be allocated for new body cameras and tasers to enhance the safety of both officers and inmates, and $7.2 million would be set aside for the Over Watch Logistics Unit to provide continuous surveillance and response coordination.

HB 67 now heads to the Senate for consideration, where it will undergo a similar review process. Once the Senate has reviewed the House’s version, they may propose changes, and if that happens, the Senate’s version of the amended budget will return to the House for further review. If the two chambers cannot reach an agreement, a conference committee will be appointed to resolve any differences between the two versions. It is essential that my colleagues in both chambers work together to advance this bill, ensuring we move quickly to bring this much-needed funding to the people who need it most. Once both chambers can reach an agreement, the final version of the amended budget will be sent to the governor for signature. This same process will be followed for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget, which is what we will turn our attention to next.

Beyond the amended budget, we took time to address other legislative initiatives, such as school safety. In response to the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County on September 4, 2024, the Speaker of the House unveiled a new school safety plan earlier this week. The plan, proposed under House Bill 268, would include the establishment of a statewide School and Student Safety Database (S3), designed to consolidate student data in order to identify potential security risks. It would also require each school district to establish risk management teams, consisting of administrators, mental health professionals and law enforcement. To further enhance safety, the plan would mandate the use of an anonymous reporting app, allowing students and staff to report concerns confidentially. The plan would also allocate $50 million in one-time school safety grants to support these initiatives and provide additional funding for the development of the S3 database. To address mental health, the plan would create mental health coordinator positions in schools and require instruction in violence prevention and suicide awareness. The plan would also encourage responsible gun ownership through voluntary tax incentives for safe storage equipment and gun safety training courses. I will update you as this legislation makes its way through the legislative process.

Aside from our legislative work, the House took time to recognize and commend individuals and groups who have contributed to the prosperity, safety and well-being of Georgia’s communities. On Tuesday, we honored firefighters from across the state during the 53rd Firefighters Recognition Day at the State Capitol, including members from the Cities of Gainesville, South Fulton, Thomasville and St. Mary’s Fire Departments. On Thursday, we celebrated Georgia National Guard Day by presenting Major General Richard Dwayne Wilson with a resolution honoring the dedication and sacrifice of the National Guard’s members. We also recognized the 50th anniversary of Morehouse School of Medicine, presenting President Valerie Montgomery Rice with a resolution for the school’s outstanding contributions to the community and the entire state.

The Georgia House of Representatives will continue its legislative work on Monday, February 10th as we begin our fifth week of session. With Crossover Day quickly approaching, we’re gearing up for a busy period ahead, where bills and resolutions must pass out of their respective chambers. As always, I encourage you to reach out with any questions or concerns about the work being done at the Capitol. Feel free to schedule a call or visit to discuss the issues that are most important to you and your family. You can reach my Capitol office at 404-656-7850 and via email at Eddie.Lumsden@house.ga.gov.

As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative.

Eddie Lumsden

GBI Busts Gambling Operations In Floyd County

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Commercial Gambling Unit has identified widespread violations of state law involving illegal cash payouts from Coin-Operated Amusement Machines (COAM) at 32 businesses in Rome and Floyd County. The violations, uncovered during an undercover operation that began last March, resulted in citations issued to the businesses and the immediate disabling of the implicated machines. The GBI, supported by the Rome Police Department, targeted businesses across the city and county.

The full list of businesses cited includes:

* 7 Hills Food Mart (1024 North Broad Street)

* Sunny’s Food Mart (1107 Turner McCall Blvd)

* Texaco (1120 Calhoun Avenue)

* Discount Groceries (1301 Shorter Avenue)

* Shop and Save (1303 Shorter Ave)

* Victor Food and Grocery

* Stop and Go (1403 Dean Avenue)

* The North Rome Mini Mart (1410 North Broad Street)

* Sheila Food Mart (1439 Broad Street)

* Rome Mini Mart (1714 Turner McCall Blvd)

* Bp Gas (1808 Dean Ave)

* Urban Puff (1806 Redmond Circle)

* Kwik Way (1818 Dean Ave)

* Baba’z Den (1818 Redmond Circle)

* Diyamart Tobacco and Vapor (1933 Shorter Ave)

* Food Mart (2000 North Broad Street)

* Garden Lakes Food and Beverage (2022 Redmond Cir)

* La Morenita (2022 Redmond Circle)

* A1 Food Mart (203 Burnett Ferry Road)

* Sehiva 2021 (2560 Shorter Avenue)

* Chevron (507 Turner McCall Blvd)

* Mi Tienda Food Mart (611 Shorter Ave)

* Latino Food Mart (702 Shorter Ave)

* Citgo (708 Shorter Ave)

* Berrie Mart (3510 Martha Berry Blvd)

* Rome Marathon (3007 Rockmart Rd)

* A to Z Vape and Groceries (3126 Maple Rd)

* Exxon (4970 Rockmart Rd)

* AAA Gas and Food (4818 Alabama Highway)

* Citgo (5646 Alabama Highway)

* Evans Deli (5680 Alabama Hwy)

* Sunoco (9522 Alabama Highway) A

uthorities are calling this investigation, which involved both informants and undercover operatives, the largest of its kind in the state. The Rome Police Department has pledged its full support to the GBI and will continue to monitor local businesses for COAM compliance. According to officials, ongoing surveillance, including the use of undercover officers and informants, is expected to continue to ensure adherence to state regulations.

Blood Assurance Blood Drive Today At Mount Vernon Mills

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Mount Vernon Mills and the Trion Fire Department are joining forces to host a community blood drive today, Wednesday, February 12th, aiming to boost local blood supplies. The Blood Assurance Bloodmobile will be stationed at Mount Vernon Mills from 7 AM to 5 PM, providing a convenient location for residents to donate. Organizers are urging all eligible community members to participate in this vital event. Blood donations are crucial for saving lives in emergency situations and supporting patients undergoing medical treatments. Donating blood is a safe and simple process. Participants are encouraged to bring a photo ID and drink plenty of fluids beforehand.

Pedestrian Passes Away From Injuries After Being Hit By Vehicle In Trion

Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy McElhaney has confirmed that the pedestrian that was struck by a vehicle Monday evening has died from his injuries. The name is being withheld pending further investigation and proper notification of the family.  The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.  WZQZ News spoke with Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader on Tuesday afternoon, who said the Georgia State Patrol will release more information on the investigation into the pedestrian accident.  WZQZ will have more information as it becomes available.

There's Hope For The Hungry At Central Avenue On Thursday

Those in need of assistance can find support this Thursday, February 13th, thanks to There’s Hope for the Hungry and the Central Avenue Baptist Church Clothes Closet. There’s Hope for the Hungry will be distributing free groceries at the Central Avenue Baptist Church in Trion. The giveaway will take place between 10 AM and 1 PM. No identification is required to receive the free groceries, but recipients must be present to collect their food. In addition to the grocery giveaway, The Clothes Closet will be open from 10 AM until 12:30 PM. Central Avenue is located at 14074 Highway 27 in Trion, next to Michael’s Body Shop. The Clothes Closet offers a selection of clothing for those in need.

High School Soccer: Chattooga Drops To Rockmart & Trion Bests Ridgeland

On Tuesday, the Trion Bulldogs were on the road to take on Ridgeland in their first soccer game of the season. The Trion Varsity Boys Soccer team won their Ridgeland High School match against Ridgeland High School by a score of 2-0.

Chattooga had to hit the road for their first game and it wasn’t the result they were hoping for. They fell just short of the Rockmart Yellowjackets by a score of 5-4 on Tuesday. The Indians haven’t had much luck with the Yellowjackets recently, as the team’s come up short the last three times they’ve met.

Looking ahead, Chattooga will look to take advantage of their home pitch for the first time this season as they take on Dalton Academy at 7 PM on Monday. The Bulldogs will be hosting Ringgold at home on Tuesday of next week.

Flood Watch, Rain & Thunderstorms With Cooler Temperatures

Residents of Northwest Georgia should prepare for unsettled weather, including heavy rain, flooding, and thunderstorms. A Flood Watch is in place until Thursday morning at 7 AM. The National Weather Service reports a low-pressure system is moving east along a warm front from the Gulf Coast. A second low-pressure system with a cold front is expected to move through late tonight into early Thursday, leaving the area by Thursday afternoon. High pressure will bring dry weather after the cold front, but meteorologists are watching a “wedge front” that could affect today’s weather.

Storms could develop, increasing the risk of strong thunderstorms in areas where clouds break. The main concern is expected rainfall, which will further saturate already wet soils. Another round of rain is forecast to start late this afternoon and continue into early Thursday. The moisture levels are high, raising the risk of flooding in creeks, streams, and rivers, as well as localized flash flooding.

Today, the high temperature will be in the mid-50s with low temperatures overnight in the 40s.  Tomorrow, we should see the sun return and highs in the upper 50s, with lows overnight on Thursday into the upper 20s.

Looking ahead to the weekend, dry conditions will start off due to high pressure, but a new low-pressure system and cold front are expected to bring rain and a potential severe threat Saturday night into Sunday. The Storm Prediction Center has a 15% severe outlook for west Georgia, with primary threats including damaging winds and possible isolated tornadoes. Rainfall totals over the weekend could reach up to 2 inches in higher areas. Weather will be seasonal with highs in the 50s to 60s, warming into the 70s on the weekend, followed by cooler temperatures early next week.