Four Trion High School wrestlers are moving on to Day 2 of the GHSA State Championships after dominating performances yesterday at the Macon Centreplex. Silas Mills (120 lbs), Coleman Lee (144 lbs), Clayton Loughridge (157 lbs), and Lane Harris (190 lbs) secured their spots with decisive victories, showcasing the strength and dedication of the Trion wrestling program. The wins were a highlight of the first day, however, the Trion wrestling community is also rallying in support after a serious injury to a fellow wrestler. The Trion Wrestling community is now asking for prayers for Dominic Haines, a wrestler from Jefferson High School, who suffered a severe injury during his semi-final match last night. Haines reportedly broke his neck, leaving the entire Georgia High School wrestling community deeply concerned. “We ask our Trion Wrestling Community to please keep Dominic Haines from Jefferson High School in your prayers,” a statement from the Trion Wrestling program read. “Our thoughts are with him, his family, and the entire Jefferson High School wrestling team.” The focus remains on the health and recovery of Dominic Haines as the Trion wrestlers continue their quest for state titles today. The Trion Bulldogs send their prayers and hopes for a swift and complete recovery.

The Chattooga High School Varsity Boys Basketball team is riding high after a decisive 69-54 victory over the Gordon Central Warriors Friday night. This win not only marks their second consecutive triumph against the Warriors but also solidifies their spot to host a state playoff game next week. The Indians demonstrated their dominance, bouncing back from previous challenges with a commanding 15-point win. Leading the charge was Dan Meyer, who dominated the scoreboard with an impressive 29 points. Quarry Gibson followed closely, contributing a significant 20 points to the team’s success. Chattooga is currently enjoying a phenomenal run, having secured victory in 15 of their last 17 games. This impressive streak has boosted their season record to a remarkable 22-5. For Gordon Central, the loss marks their second consecutive defeat, concluding their season with a final record of 18 wins and 10 losses. Good luck to the Indians as they prepare to host their state playoff game at Chattooga High School next week.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, February 15, 2025:

Northwest Georgia residents should get ready for a weekend of unstable weather as a storm system arrives, bringing possible scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain.

The National Weather Service warns of severe storms from late Saturday into Sunday, which may cause damaging winds and a slight chance of tornadoes. People are advised to keep track of weather updates. The risk of river flooding may continue through the weekend and into early next week due to recent rains.

Detailed Forecast:

Today (Saturday): 50% chance of showers before 2 PM; cloudy with a high near 58°F.

Saturday Night: Showers and possible thunderstorms after 3 AM; 100% chance of precipitation with new rainfall of up to three quarters of an inch.

Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms likely before 8 AM; mostly cloudy with a high near 58°F.

Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy, low around 25°F.

Washington’s Birthday (Monday): Sunny, high near 48°F.

Monday Night: Mostly clear, low around 26°F.

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 55°F.

Tuesday Night: 50% chance of showers after 1 AM, low around 34°F.

Wednesday: Likely showers before 1 PM, high near 45°F.

Wednesday Night: Chance of rain and snow showers, low around 22°F.

Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 36°F.

Thursday Night: Mostly clear, low around 15°F.

North Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (NGEMC) has alerted its members about a tree trimming scam in the area. A member reported a deceptive encounter with a tree trimming crew that falsely claimed to be working for NGEMC.

The crew initially quoted $1,800 for trimming trees near the member’s transformer but then demanded $18,000 after completing the job, saying costs had increased significantly. NGEMC emphasized that legitimate crews do not solicit payments directly from members, and all tree trimming is included in their work plan without charging individual members.

An NGEMC spokesperson highlighted the importance of safety and trust, advising members to be alert and cautious. Members should not engage with unsolicited visitors claiming to represent NGEMC. If approached by such individuals, they should secure their homes and contact local authorities. Members can find information about legitimate services and report suspicious activities on the NGEMC website or by calling the local NGEMC office.

The Trion Office can be contacted at 706-734-7341

Berry College President Steve Briggs was honored with the Daniel T. Dutcher Meritorious Service Award at the 2025 NCAA National Convention.

Under his leadership, Berry’s athletic program expanded significantly, adding nine collegiate sports in 19 years and moving from NAIA to NCAA Division III, achieving full membership in 2013. His focus on athletics aligns with the NCAA Division III motto: “Discover. Develop. Dedicate. ”

Director of Athletics Angel Mason praised Briggs for his deep investment in students and coaches. He is also a founding president of the Southern Athletic Association and has played a crucial role in its development. The award recognizes significant contributions to Division III athletics, and Briggs is the second president to receive it in 24 years.

The national unemployment rate was 4% in January, a decrease from 4. 1%, showing ongoing job growth. However, sectors like mining and oil faced job losses. In Georgia, Chattooga County’s rate rose to 5%, with 486 unemployed, tied for 14th highest in the state.

The figures, released February 7th, show the national unemployment rate decreased from 4.1%, the lowest since last May, and represent the 49th consecutive month of overall job growth, the second-longest streak since 1939.

While the national picture remains optimistic, certain sectors are experiencing challenges. The mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction industries saw a notable decline, shedding 8,000 jobs nationwide. Other major industries experienced little overall change in employment.

Focusing on Georgia, the analysis revealed a mixed bag, with some areas struggling despite the national economic upswing. Chattooga County, Georgia, reported a preliminary unemployment rate of 5% in December 2024. This figure represents a concerning rise of 1.0 percentage points over the previous month and a significant 1.7 percentage point increase compared to December 2023. With a total labor force of 9,649, the county had 486 unemployed individuals.

Chattooga County tied with Emanuel County with the 14th highest unemployment rate in the state.

The Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office is actively seeking a new Animal Control Director, following a period of transition and controversy within the department. Commissioner Andy Allen announced the job opening on February 6, 2025, seeking a qualified individual to lead the county’s animal control efforts.

The need for a new director arose after the resignation of Mark Finster in mid-December 2024. Finster’s departure followed a contentious incident on September 23, 2024, when Chattooga County Animal Control euthanized a family pet. The incident sparked significant public outcry and raised concerns about the department’s protocols. The controversy further escalated with allegations of a cover-up by a county employee. Former Commissioner Elsberry initiated an investigation into the matter, confirming that an employee was reprimanded, although specific details regarding the findings were not disclosed. ( See related article from WZQZ ).

Since taking office in January, Commissioner Allen, along with current Animal Control staff, has been working to fill the void left by Finster’s departure. Now, Allen is looking for a permanent director to lead the department forward. The full-time position is open to qualified candidates. Those interested in the role are encouraged to request a job description and submit a resume and cover letter to chattcom@windstream.net or in person at the Commissioner’s Office at 10102 Commerce St. Submissions will be accepted between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. until February 28, 2025.

The Georgia Promise Scholarship application period starts on March 1st, offering $6,500 to eligible K-12 students for private school tuition or home-schooling costs. This scholarship aims to give educational opportunities to students from the lowest performing 25% of schools in Georgia.

However, there is concern among families as the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement has not released the official list of qualifying schools, which affects student eligibility. This delay complicates planning for the 2025-2026 academic year. The program, created by Senate Bill 233, limits funds to 1% of the K-12 school funding budget, totaling $141 million, and is expected to support about 20,000 scholarships.

To be eligible, students must have attended a public school for two semesters or be kindergartners ready to enroll. Parents must be Georgia residents for at least a year unless they are active military members. The main requirement is that students attend a school in the lowest performing 25%.

The scholarship has caused debate, with some saying lawmakers should focus on improving public schools. Kyle Wingfield, President of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, argues that the priority should be finding the best educational fit for each child.

Families should note the application windows: March 1 – April 15, June 1 – June 30, September 1 – September 30, and December 1 – January 31. They are encouraged to check the Georgia Promise Scholarship website for updates and prepare necessary documentation once the eligible school list is available.

In a move to address the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence, the University System of Georgia (USG) is launching its first baccalaureate program in Applied Artificial Intelligence. The Board of Regents approved the new Bachelor of Science degree at Middle Georgia State University’s Warner Robins campus on Tuesday. The program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, business, and cybersecurity, all of which are increasingly reliant on AI technologies. This initiative comes as Atlanta solidifies its position as a major technology hub, creating a surge in demand for qualified IT professionals. Furthermore, Georgia’s key infrastructure, such as the Port of Savannah and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, heavily utilizes AI for optimizing supply chains, route planning, and enhancing overall operational efficiency. The Applied AI program is projected to enroll an initial cohort of 65 students, with anticipated growth to 168 students by its fourth year. Classes are scheduled to commence this fall, offering a timely opportunity for aspiring AI specialists to enter this rapidly expanding field. This new program underscores the USG’s commitment to providing relevant and in-demand educational opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth and technological advancement of the state of Georgia.

A bipartisan group of Georgia lawmakers has introduced House Bill 82, known as the Georgia Guest Worker Act, to tackle labor shortages by creating a guest worker program. This program would allow qualified immigrants to come to Georgia to fill jobs in industries with a lack of available workers, following federal rules. The bill aims to establish a legal way for foreign workers to address labor gaps while protecting current workers. Before launching the program, the Labor Commissioner must study whether a true labor shortage exists and identify the industries in need. Only if there are not enough qualified citizens and hiring guest workers won’t harm existing employees can the program begin. The bill sets strict eligibility rules and employer responsibilities, including paying fees and providing health insurance, housing, and meals. Violations could result in fines, and the program requires identification cards for guest workers and their families. The bill would start three months after approval by the Georgia Attorney General.

The Georgia legislature is bolstering its commitment to school safety with significant funding increases included in the upcoming budget, according to State Representative Eddie Lumsden (R-Armuchee).

The House’s version of the Amended Fiscal Year 2025 (AFY 2025) budget reflects a strong emphasis on protecting Georgia’s students. “My colleagues and I remain committed to school security,” stated Rep. Lumsden. “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.” This new allocation, combined with the existing $109 million in base funding, means school systems will receive a total of $68,759 per school in Fiscal Year 2025. In addition to direct funding for schools, the budget includes $3 million for the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA). This funding will be used to establish a school risk assessment system, aimed at proactively identifying and mitigating potential threats to student safety. Furthermore, House Bill 67 proposes allocating $7.42 million in new lottery funds to the Department of Early Care and Learning. This funding will implement recommendations from the House Early Childhood Education Working Group, including raising salaries for Pre-K lead and assistant teachers to match the State Board of Education schedule and strengthening the Pre-K workforce.

Recognizing the importance of mental health support for students, the House’s amended budget also allocates $160,000 in one-time funding to the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement. This funding will establish a Regional Crisis Recovery Network in partnership with the Southern Regional Education Board. The network will train counselors and deploy them to provide psychological first aid to students following traumatic events, such as natural disasters or school shootings.

These budget allocations demonstrate the Georgia legislature’s dedication to ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all students across the state.

On Friday afternoon, Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen announced that Fullerton Road, Lyerly is now closed due to the bridge is washed out. There is standing water over the location where the bridge should be, do not attempt to cross over this area. Drivers were being asked to detour around the area. The commissioner says that due to the level of water over the area of the bridge there will not be any repairs attempted until Monday, February 17, 2025.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, February 14, 2025:

Residents of Northwest Georgia can expect a roller coaster of weather conditions over the next seven days, transitioning from pleasant sunshine to heavy rain, potential thunderstorms, and even the possibility of wintry precipitation, according to the National Weather Service. Today offers a brief respite with high pressure bringing sunny skies and highs in the 50s. However, a cold air damming wedge will begin to develop overnight, setting the stage for significant changes.

After heavy rain earlier this week, the Chattooga River crested at just over 16 feet overnight.  Low lying areas along the river experienced minor flooding on Thursday but water will continue to recede throughout the day today.  As of 4 AM, the gauge on the Chattooga River located on on Highway 27 at the bridge near The Summerville News showed the river had dropped below the flood stage of 14 feet.

Rain showers are expected to arrive by Saturday, with high temperatures hovering in the mid-40s to low 50s. The most significant impact is anticipated from Saturday night into Sunday, as a strong cold front pushes through the region. This front will bring heavy rain and thunderstorms, with rainfall totals projected to be between 1 and 2 inches for most areas, and even higher amounts in the mountainous regions. The anticipated heavy rainfall raises concerns about more river flooding and localized flash flooding, as the ground is already saturated from previous precipitation.  Residents living near rivers and in low-lying areas are urged to be prepared.

Looking ahead to Wednesday and Thursday of next week, forecasters are monitoring a weather system that could bring wintry conditions to North Georgia. While uncertainty remains, the potential for snow exists, particularly in the mountains. There is currently a 20-30% chance of wintry weather developing. In addition to the potential for wintry weather, below-average temperatures are forecast for next week, especially from Wednesday to Friday.

Trion School Superintendent Dr. Phil Williams has publicly criticized State Senator Colton Moore for threatening local legislation if the Trion School Board chooses to opt out of House Bill 581, a bill limiting property tax increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

In a strongly worded statement, Williams took issue with Moore’s approach, claiming the senator bypassed a simple phone call to discuss concerns and instead resorted to what he called “inexcusable bullying” and “grandstanding” in statement released by Senator Moore.  WZQZ News reported in January on Moore’s threats against local taxing authorities when the state senator stated, “If local boards decide to go forward with plans to opt out, I will introduce local legislation in the Georgia General Assembly to implement a total assessment freeze”. (See related article from WZQZ).

Williams highlighted the apparent contradiction of Moore voting in favor of HB 581, which includes an opt-out clause for school systems, only to then threaten the Trion School Board for considering that very option. ”

Senator Colton Moore voted ‘YES’ for HB 581 that allows school systems to opt-out if the elected board members believe it is the right thing to do for their students and school system,” Williams stated. “Colton voted ‘YES’ for the bill, but then threatened the Trion School Board Members if you take advantage of what the bill gives you the right to do.” Williams defended the board’s decision to consider opting out, citing “unknown financial impact” and “possible unintended consequences” of the bill.

He also emphasized the Trion City School system’s long-standing commitment to low property taxes. “Does Senator Moore understand that the Trion City School system has had the lowest school tax millage rate (5.7 mills) of all Georgia School Systems for at least 20 years?” Williams questioned.

The superintendent concluded by expressing his disappointment with Moore’s tactics, reiterating that a simple conversation would have been more productive. He accused Moore of creating “dissension” and unfairly attacking a group of individuals dedicated to maintaining low taxes.

The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement clarifying the details of its jail-based 287(g) program, a partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), following a public meeting held on Wednesday.

The Sheriff’s Office addressed misconceptions and concerns raised by the community regarding the program, which has been in place since 2018. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the 287(g) program focuses exclusively on individuals arrested for crimes within Floyd County, ranging from traffic violations to violent offenses, who are identified as being non-U.S. citizens. During the booking process, ICE may place a hold on these individuals for up to 72 hours, allowing them time to take custody and transfer the individual to an ICE facility for further processing. The statement emphasized crucial limitations of the program, explicitly stating that:

* Deputies are **not** authorized to question individuals about their immigration status during routine public interactions.

* The program does **not** allow for arrests solely based on suspicion of being in the country illegally.

* The program does **not** permit the use of roadblocks or home inspections to verify immigration status.

* The 287(g) agreement holds **no** authority outside of arrests made within the jurisdiction of Floyd County.

The Sheriff’s Office further stated that they have engaged in discussions with the Rome Police Department and the Floyd County Police Department to address concerns regarding immigration enforcement, assuring the public that none of these agencies are conducting operations to enter homes, schools, businesses, or other private locations to search for undocumented individuals. Residents who believe they have been subjected to racial profiling or any inappropriate actions by a member of the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office are strongly encouraged to file a report at https://www.floydsheriffga.gov/contact-us. All claims will be thoroughly investigated.

The Sheriff’s Office reiterated its commitment to transparency and integrity in serving the community. They also clarified that, with the signing of HB 1105 by Governor Kemp, Georgia Sheriffs are now mandated to collaborate with federal immigration authorities when an individual in custody is suspected of being in the country illegally. As the office is already engaged in the 287(g) program, they are fully compliant with the new legal requirements, ensuring proactive adherence to federal standards.

The next regularly scheduled meeting for the Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration is April 15, 2025 at 5 PM. The meeting will take place in the Registrars Office located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. They will have an agenda for the meeting closer to the meeting date.

A lieutenant with the Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office has been terminated and now faces criminal charges following an investigation into allegations of unreported income from a second job and failure to perform assigned duties. Sheriff Gary Sisk announced the firing of Lieutenant Keith Cantrell in a statement released earlier today. The investigation began on February 4th after the Sheriff’s Office received a complaint alleging Cantrell received compensation for working an extra job as a Deputy Sheriff but failed to fulfill the responsibilities associated with that position. Following the complaint, Lieutenant Cantrell was placed on paid leave, and an internal investigation was launched. The following day, investigators obtained sworn statements and video evidence related to the allegations. Due to the potential criminal nature of the case, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) was called in to conduct an independent investigation. Upon completion of the GBI’s investigation, Sheriff Sisk stated that it revealed Cantrell “violated his oath of office and other criminal laws.” Consequently, Cantrell was terminated from his position.

Sheriff Sisk confirmed on Thursday that GBI agents have arrested Cantrell but did not specify the exact charges. “We take all allegations of misconduct seriously and hold all employees to the highest standards of integrity and accountability,” Sheriff Sisk said in the statement. “This decision reflects our commitment to transparency and ensuring that the public has confidence in the professionalism and ethical conduct of our officers.” The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.

Voters in Lyerly will have a new polling location for future elections, Chattooga County election officials announced yesterday. The change will take effect starting with the upcoming election on March 18, 2025. According to an official notice released by the Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration, the Lyerly precinct polling place will be moved from its current location at the Lyerly Fire Hall (6086 Highway 114) to the Lyerly Community Center, located at 29 Alpine Street, Lyerly, Georgia 30730. The change is being made to better serve the voters of the Lyerly with the Lyerly Community Center providing a more accessible and convenient location for residents to exercise their right to vote.  The Board of Elections and Registration is providing notice of the change as mandated by Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 21-2-265). Lyerly voters are encouraged to take note of the new polling location before heading to the polls on March 18th for the upcoming SPLOST vote.