A small plane crash near Barwick–LaFayette Airport has resulted in the deaths of two people, shocking the local community. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident that occurred around 2:30 p. m. on Thursday when a Cirrus SR22 aircraft crashed just before landing. An investigator from the NTSB is set to arrive at the scene today to gather evidence and examine the wreckage.

Eyewitnesses reported that the plane caught fire upon impact, visible from nearby roads. Both occupants were confirmed dead by local officials.  The names of the victims have not been released as of Friday morning.

The cause of the crash is currently unknown, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). A spokesperson expressed sadness about the event and assured that the agency would conduct a thorough investigation in collaboration with the NTSB. Details about the victims are not yet public, as their names are being withheld until formal identification is completed.

A preliminary report is anticipated within a month, but the entire investigation might take up to two years. The investigation will consider various factors, and NTSB officials have requested anyone with information to come forward.

A chilly start to the day on Friday in Northwest Georgia as we see low temperatures in the 30s under clear skies with light NW winds. A ridge of high pressure will move over the Southeast US, leading to dry weather and warming temperatures. Fire weather is a concern as humidity drops to 15-20% in the afternoon. Highs today will reach the 60s, with light northwest winds.Tonight, lows will range from the upper 30s to low 40s, with warming into the 60s and 70s on Saturday. Fire weather remains a top concern, especially with increased winds. Looking ahead, dry fuels and low humidity may keep fire concerns high through next week. Showers and thunderstorms are possible Sunday night and Monday, with a limited severe risk. Fire weather issues are expected due to low humidity values, especially Tuesday to Friday after modest rainfall. The potential for severe weather on Sunday night exists, but flooding is not expected.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, March 21, 2025:

On Thursday evening, Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader released a statement to local media saying that Lookout Mountain District Attorney Clay Fuller met with Sheriff Schrader and Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson and said that the investigation involving Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen and a Kentucky truck driver should be investigated by an agency outside the judicial circuit.

The investigation centers around an altercation between Commissioner Allen and William Wilson, a cattle hauler, who alleges that Commissioner Allen physically assaulted and threatened him. Wilson and his wife were in Chattooga County to pick up a load of cattle from William Mitchell’s farm back on March 3rd. Due to the narrow nature of Little Sand Mountain Road, Wilson stated he had to temporarily block the road to back his truck into the farm. Commissioner Allen, who was also traveling on the road, reportedly took issue with the blockage, leading to the confrontation. Wilson alleges that Allen grabbed his shirt and made threats, nearly pulling him from his truck. The Commissioner’s account alleges that the driver created a dangerous situation.

Originally, Sheriff Schrader had recused his office from investigation and asked neighboring Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson to investigate.  Now, the investigation into the incident will be handled by the GBI Field Office in Calhoun.

Sheriff Schrader released the following statement on Thursday:

On Tuesday of this week, Summerville Police observed a vehicle making a wide turn onto Tyler Street and believed the driver might be impaired.  Police followed the vehicle on Tyler Street and observed the driver of the vehicle crossing the yellow line and driving in both lanes of traffic.  After performing a traffic stop, the officer noticed visible signs of impairment and the driver, identified as 32-year-old Brandyn David Holt, admitted to having just drank “3 beers”.  Inside the vehicle, the officer noticed an 8-year-old girl and 7-year-old boy.  After failing field sobriety tests, Holt was arrested on charges of DUI and DUI Child Endangerment and was booked into the Chattooga County Jail.

A pair of Georgia bills aimed at lowering the state income tax rate and providing an additional refund to taxpayers are awaiting Gov. Brian Kemp’s signature. The state Senate approved House Bill 111 and 112, part of a tax rebate package that the Republican governor has prioritized.

House Bill 111 will reduce the state income tax rate from 5. 39% to 5. 19% starting July 1, saving taxpayers around $869 million. This bill passed with a 30-23 vote, mainly supported by Republicans. House Bill 112, which received unanimous support, allows those who filed income taxes to get an extra refund this year. If approved, taxpayers will receive $250 each, $375 for heads of households, and $500 for married couples filing jointly.

Sen. Josh McLaurin argued for immediate tax relief over permanent tax cuts, while Sen. Elena Parent noted that the tax cut mainly benefits wealthier individuals. Republican Sen. Ed Setzler defended the tax cuts as beneficial for small business owners, and Sen. Bo Hatchett stated that tax reductions help all taxpayers and job creation.

GNN

Rebecca Hood, former chair of the Gordon County Commission, and her husband, Scott Adrian Hood, have been indicted this week following years of investigations into child abuse allegations. Rebecca Hood faces one count of first-degree cruelty to children, while Scott Adrian Hood has been indicted on one count of child molestation. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) previously arrested and charged the couple on October 31, 2024, with cruelty to children. Rebecca Hood, 50, and Scott Hood, 56, both of Calhoun, GA, were initially booked into the Gordon County Jail. The investigation began on January 26, 2021, at the request of the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office, following allegations of sexual and physical abuse of the Hoods’ adopted children. At the time of the allegations, Rebecca Hood was serving as a County Commissioner for Gordon County. The GBI’s Regional Investigative Office in Calhoun is continuing its active and ongoing investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact the office at 706-624-1424. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app. The completed case file will be handed over to the Blue Judicial Circuit (Cherokee County) District Attorney’s Office for review.

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) released its unemployment figures for January 2025. While new unemployment claims in the county are down year-over-year and month-over-month, Chattooga’s unemployment rate sits significantly higher than both the state average and neighboring counties in Northwest Georgia. According to the GDOL report released Thursday, 363 Chattooga County residents filed new unemployment claims in January. This represents a decrease compared to December 2024 and January 2024. However, the county’s unemployment rate for January reached 4.1%, exceeding the Northwest Georgia region’s average of 3.4%. Neighboring counties showcase a healthier economic landscape. Floyd County recorded an unemployment rate of 3.4%, while Walker County boasted a rate of 3.2%. The stark contrast underscores the unique challenges facing Chattooga County’s workforce. In a statement, GDOL Interim Commissioner Louis DeBroux acknowledged the situation, saying, “Georgia’s success is driven by its people, and we remain committed to supporting them every step of the way. While job growth has faced challenges this month, key industries across the state continue to offer opportunities for hardworking Georgians. Even with the rise in unemployment, our mission remains clear—helping Georgia’s workers find and keep meaningful employment in every corner of our state.”

She was often surrounded by controversy and became well-known for her unusual actions. Anne Clay Otwell, better recognized as Serpentfoot, passed away at the age of 91. Her granddaughter, Ericka Otwell, shared that Serpentfoot was a strong-willed person who always stood up for her beliefs, no matter how unpopular they were. She had a deep love for nature, enjoyed attending Native American festivals, and loved outdoor activities like fossil hunting.

Serpentfoot frequently generated headlines due to her legal struggles and disagreements with local authorities, including a memorable event where she disrobed at a county commission meeting. Despite her confrontational demeanor towards officials, she was kind-hearted toward those in need and had a sharp understanding of the law, often helping others. In 2015, she made news again by attempting to change her name to a lengthy and complicated series of words, highlighting her distinct personality.

Throughout her life, she faced challenges, including a strained relationship with her family, who distanced themselves due to her unconventional behavior. Although Serpentfoot enjoyed connecting with her children and grandchildren, she chose to keep them out of the public eye to prevent further embarrassment.

Serpentfoot consistently fought against city regulations and legal issues, showing no signs of slowing down. She kept herself busy with volunteer work, helping those who did not have transportation and writing letters to prisoners seeking support. She held a unique belief system focused on environmental preservation, emphasizing the need for collaboration between nature lovers and scientists to combat climate change. Ultimately, she expressed that her actions and decisions came with personal sacrifices, but she remained committed to doing what she believed was right.

Serpentfoot was living in Chattooga County in the Poetry Community, located between Holland and the Floyd County line.

Tragedy struck the Barwick-LaFayette Airport in Walker County, Georgia, Thursday afternoon, as a low-wing plane crashed on the runway, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. LaFayette Public Safety Director Stacey Meeks has confirmed the fatalities. The crash occurred around 2:30 p.m. as the small, private plane attempted to land at the north end of the runway. Director Meeks stated that there were “no survivors.” While authorities are still working to officially identify the victims, Meeks indicated that the plane “appears to be occupied by 2 people.” The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has identified the aircraft as a Cirrus SR22. The FAA is assisting the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) with the investigation. The NTSB will lead the inquiry and is expected to release further information as the investigation progresses.

Residents of Northwest Georgia are waking up to temperatures in the mid-50’s this morning, but temperatures will cool throughout the day.  A Fire Danger Statement has been issued today due to strong winds after light rain moves through the area. The National Weather Service warns that west winds, sustained at 10-15 mph and gusting up to 30 mph, may create fire hazards in the area. The day starts sunny but will become mostly cloudy, with a steady temperature around 47 degrees. Tonight, the northwest wind will blow at 5-10 mph, gusting up to 25 mph, with an overnight low of about 31 degrees under partly cloudy skies. Widespread frost is expected before 9 AM on Friday and a Freeze Warning is in place for tonight into Friday morning. Friday will be sunny, reaching a high near 63 degrees with light westerly winds. Friday night will be mostly clear with a low around 38 degrees. Saturday will stay sunny with a high near 71 degrees. There are fire weather concerns from Friday to Sunday, with low humidity expected. Frost and freeze advisories are in place for Thursday night and Friday morning in parts of north and central Georgia. Residents are advised to be cautious with any ignition sources, like outdoor fires or spark-causing equipment, due to the increased fire risk.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, March 20, 2025:

A routine traffic stop on Highway 114 early March 9th led to the arrest of Rhonda Johnson on charges of driving under the influence of drugs and possession of methamphetamine. Summerville Police observed a red 1988 Ford Ranger traveling southbound on Highway 114 with a suspended registration. After initiating a traffic stop on Hartline Street, the deputy approached the vehicle and observed Johnson, the driver, displaying bloodshot eyes and exhibiting mumbled, confused speech. The passenger, identified as Joseph Bethea and the owner of the vehicle, was informed of the suspended registration. During questioning, Johnson initially claimed her driver’s license was stolen, but later admitted to possessing methamphetamine after being asked to empty her pockets. A subsequent search of her purse revealed modified straws containing a white crystalline substance also suspected to be methamphetamine. Field sobriety tests indicated impairment. Johnson reportedly displayed six out of six clues on the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test and struggled with the walk-and-turn and one-leg stand tests. Johnson also admitted to taking Valium the previous day. Based on these observations, the deputy placed Johnson under arrest for DUI drugs. She agreed to a blood draw, which was conducted by EMT Codie Tate, and subsequently transported to the Chattooga County jail. The suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were collected as evidence and secured. Bethea was not charged in the incident.

Press Release:

“United Through Art” Countywide Student Art Show In Summerville Depot Saturday, March 22 Free To The Public

In celebration of the National Youth Art Month, Summerville Main Street will sponsor “United through Art” – A Countywide Student Art Show on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at the Summerville Depot. All mediums of art work created by our county’s youth, ranging from grades K-12 will be on display inside the depot from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. New for this year several adult artists will join in to demonstrate and display art and photography.

Youth Art Month is a month of promoting art and art education in the United States. It is observed in March, with thousands of American schools participating, often with the involvement of local art museums and civic organizations. Schools and homeschoolers countywide will be participating in the show.

Extra highlights for the day include a performance by Menlo Elementary Chorus at 11:00 a.m. and watercolor demonstrations by local watercolor artist Sheila Johnson from 1:00 -2:00 p.m. Artist Billy Smith will also be onsite demonstrating painting throughout the day. Free simple face painting for children will be offered between the hours of 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Several food vendors will be on site offering a variety of items for the public to enjoy. Vendors include: Reita Cabe with fried pies, Brunswick stew, homemade ice cream and jellies, and Small Town BBQ with ribs, chicken & pulled pork plates. Food items will be available for dine-in or take home.

The public is encouraged to attend this free event to celebrate and encourage youth art. For more information on this event contact Summerville Main Street at (706) 859-0900 ext. 1337.

This week, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced the appointment of Bárbara Rivera Holmes as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor. She will be sworn into office on April 4th and will complete the term of Bruce Thompson, who passed away last November. Governor Kemp expressed pride in this historic appointment, highlighting Holmes’ proven success in economic development and education, and wishing her success in her new role.

Holmes expressed her commitment to creating opportunities and building stronger communities in her new role. She thanked the Department of Labor team for their hard work after Thompson’s passing. Former Governor Nathan Deal praised her experience in economic development and workforce issues, stating she would help keep Georgia a great place to live and work. Lt. Governor Burt Jones and Speaker of the House Jon Burns also congratulated Holmes, noting her significant experience and fit for the role.

Attorney General Chris Carr and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper commended Holmes’ dedication and expertise in economic development. Other officials, including Insurance Commissioner John King and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, expressed confidence in her abilities to address the challenges facing Georgians. State School Superintendent Richard Woods emphasized the connection between education and workforce issues as important to the state’s future.

Holmes is currently president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce with a background in economic development. Originally from Puerto Rico, she is fluent in Spanish and holds a double major in Journalism and Spanish from Florida Southern College.

Atrium Health Floyd will hold a Career Fair today, Thursday, March 20, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Rome Civic Center, 400 Civic Center Drive.

Both clinical and non-clinical opportunities are available at multiple locations. Drop-ins are welcome; applicants can also pre-register here: https://bit.ly/4gU4v9H

While people often think about doctors and nurses when they hear about healthcare careers, office managers, office assistants, security officers and dietary/cafeteria teammates are just a few of the positions that support Atrium Health Floyd’s commitment to provide excellent patient care.

To learn more about open positions, visit https://careers.atriumhealth.org  Potential applicants are encouraged to bring resumes.

The Georgia General Assembly is taking decisive action to address the deteriorating condition of the state’s correctional facilities, according to State Representative Eddie Lumsden (R-Armuchee). With many prisons facing critical infrastructure issues, lawmakers are prioritizing the safety and well-being of both inmates and correctional officers.

House Bill 68 is at the forefront of this effort, providing crucial funding to relocate 667 prisoners from state prisons to alternative housing units.

This move will clear the way for much-needed renovations to begin. Furthermore, HB 68 will facilitate the deployment of four new prefabricated housing units, each with 126 beds, enabling the relocation of an additional 1,171 inmates as part of a broader facility overhaul. The House budget further demonstrates its commitment to improving correctional facilities with a $15 million allocation for capital maintenance and repairs. An additional $19.2 million is earmarked for hiring skilled maintenance staff to tackle critical infrastructure needs effectively. Beyond physical improvements, the House’s FY 2026 budget includes a significant $56.8 million increase for the Department of Corrections. This funding will ensure the continuation of comprehensive physical, mental, dental, and pharmaceutical services for inmates.

A key aspect of this investment is the expansion of mental health services through the addition of 42 mental health professionals, ensuring that inmates receive the vital care and support they need.

Rep. Lumsden emphasized the importance of these measures, stating that the General Assembly is committed to ensuring a safe and humane environment within Georgia’s correctional system. He believes that these investments will not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the long-term improvement of the state’s prisons.