Humidity Sticks Around as Heat Builds; Typical Summer Storm Pattern Returns Through Next Week

Northwest Georgia will continue to experience warm, humid weather with daily opportunities for afternoon and evening thunderstorms through at least early next week, according to the National Weather Service.

For today, expect partly sunny skies with a high near 86 degrees. A slight chance of showers this morning will increase to scattered showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m., with the greatest coverage during the afternoon and early evening. Rain chances are around 40 percent. While storms will be less widespread than Tuesday, the atmosphere remains very humid with tropical moisture still in place, creating what forecasters describe as “air you can wear.”

Tonight, skies become partly cloudy with only a slight chance of an evening thunderstorm before temperatures settle near 70 degrees.

Thursday will bring mostly sunny skies and a high near 88 before showers and thunderstorms become more likely after 2 p.m. Rain chances increase to 60 percent Thursday afternoon and evening.

The familiar summertime pattern continues Friday through the weekend, with mornings generally dry and hot before scattered to numerous afternoon and evening thunderstorms develop each day. High temperatures will climb from the upper 80s Thursday to around 90 Friday and into the lower 90s by the weekend and early next week.

While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few stronger storms could produce isolated damaging wind gusts. Forecasters say the risk of flash flooding remains localized, although areas that have received repeated heavy rainfall will be more susceptible to flooding.

Heat will also become an increasing concern as temperatures rise into the low to mid-90s through early next week. Combined with the high humidity, heat index values are expected to climb into the triple digits at times, and heat advisories may become necessary if the warming trend continues.

Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and remain weather aware each afternoon as thunderstorms develop.

Wednesday
A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11am. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
Wednesday Night
A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Calm wind.
Thursday
Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Thursday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday
Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8am and 2pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday Night
Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 8pm, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 2am, then a slight chance of showers after 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Sunday
A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 8am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
Sunday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Monday
A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.
Monday Night
A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 73.
Tuesday
A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.

Heart and Vascular Screenings Available Today in Trion

Residents have an opportunity today to receive a quick heart and vascular health screening as AdventHealth brings its AngioScreen mobile screening unit to Trion.

The AngioScreen bus will be at AdventHealth Medical Group, 160 Central Avenue in Trion, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Staff will break for lunch from 11 a.m. until noon.

The screening costs $85 and is designed to help identify a person’s risk for heart disease and stroke. The non-invasive assessment takes about 10 minutes to complete and includes a carotid artery ultrasound for stroke screening, an electrocardiogram (EKG), Ankle-Brachial Index testing to evaluate circulation in the legs, and an abdominal aortic aneurysm screening.

Participants receive their results immediately following the screening.

No appointment is necessary, and walk-ins are welcome.

Payment may be made by cash, check, credit card, debit card, or Health Savings Account (HSA) and flexible spending account cards.

Traffic Stop Leads to Methamphetamine Arrest in Summerville

A routine traffic stop in Summerville resulted in the arrest of a Chattooga County man on methamphetamine charges after deputies reportedly discovered suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia inside his vehicle.

According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Ronald Wayne Gwin Jr., 48, was arrested on July 11 and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, along with several traffic offenses.

The report states Deputy Matt Wilson was patrolling the area of U.S. Highway 27 at approximately 8:02 p.m. when he observed a gold 2011 Dodge Durango fail to stop at the stop sign at the intersection with Highway 27. The deputy also reported the driver failed to activate a turn signal before entering the highway.

After initiating a traffic stop, Deputy Wilson made contact with the driver, identified as Gwin. According to the report, the deputy detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Gwin allegedly admitted he had smoked marijuana earlier in the day.

Deputies asked Gwin to step out of the vehicle and obtained consent to search his pockets. During the search, deputies reportedly located a hypodermic syringe in his shirt pocket. A second syringe found in his pants pocket allegedly contained a white crystalline substance that Gwin identified as methamphetamine, telling deputies he had used the drug earlier that morning.

A subsequent search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered additional hypodermic syringes, a container containing suspected methamphetamine, suspected methamphetamine residue, several used cotton swabs beneath the passenger seat, and a pipe containing suspected liquid methamphetamine.

According to the incident report, the suspected methamphetamine produced a positive result during a roadside field test.

Gwin was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Chattooga County Jail. The vehicle was released to a towing service.

Free Cave Geology Program and Guided Caving Trip Planned in LaFayette

Outdoor enthusiasts will have an opportunity to learn more about the caves beneath northwest Georgia during a free presentation and guided caving trip hosted by The Outpost and the City of LaFayette Parks and Recreation.

The first program in The Outpost’s new outdoor-focused speaker series will be held Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m. at the MARS Theatre in downtown LaFayette.

The presentation will feature Eric Crisp, a Walker County resident, professional geologist and experienced caver. Crisp will discuss cave geology, the relationship between rock, water and time, and the natural processes that have created the extensive cave systems found throughout the region.

Organizers say the program is designed to help participants better understand the geological features located beneath northwest Georgia and why the area’s network of caves is considered unique.

A free guided caving trip will follow on Saturday, July 25. The trip will also be led by Crisp and is open to both beginners and experienced cavers. Transportation will be provided.

Space for the caving trip is limited, and advance registration is required. Anyone interested in reserving a spot should call The Outpost at 706-639-1589.

The July 23 presentation at the MARS Theatre is free and open to the public.

Chattooga County Schools Release 2026-2027 School Supply Lists

With the first day of school just a few weeks away, Chattooga County Schools has made school supply lists available to help families prepare for the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

Students will return to class on JULY 24th, and parents are encouraged to begin purchasing supplies now to avoid the rush as the new school year approaches.

Supply lists are available for each school in the district and outline the classroom materials students will need for the upcoming year. Requirements vary by grade level and teacher but generally include items such as notebooks, folders, pencils, crayons, glue sticks, tissues, composition books, binders, markers, colored pencils and other classroom essentials.

The official school supply lists can be accessed through the following links:

Parents should review the appropriate list for their child’s school and grade level before shopping, as some teachers may request additional classroom-specific supplies after the school year begins.

Additional back-to-school information, including the district calendar and school contact information, is available on the Chattooga County School District website at www.chattooga.k12.ga.us.

Man Arrested After Deputy Recognizes Suspended Driver's License During Menlo Traffic Stop

A Chattooga County man was arrested July 8 after a sheriff’s deputy recognized him during a traffic stop and determined he was driving with a suspended license.

According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Chase David Slater, 20, was charged with Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (Misdemeanor).

The report states Deputy Justin Claxton was patrolling the area of Highway 48 near the Menlo Ballfields at approximately 4:18 p.m. on July 8 when he observed a white Dodge Durango with a cracked windshield. The deputy reported recognizing the driver from previous encounters and knew Slater’s Georgia driver’s license had been suspended.

After initiating a traffic stop, the deputy made contact with Slater, who reportedly acknowledged that he knew his license was suspended.

Based on that admission and the deputy’s prior knowledge, Slater was taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Chattooga County Jail, and the vehicle was released to its registered owner, according to the report.

Multicultural Market and Train Arrival Celebration Set for Saturday at Summerville Depot

Downtown Summerville will host a full day of food, culture, entertainment and railroad activities Saturday, July 18, during a Multicultural Market and special train arrival celebration at the historic Summerville Depot.

The free community event will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will feature foods and traditions representing cultures from around the world. Organizers say the event is designed to celebrate friendship, diversity and the role communities can play in creating a more welcoming and positive world.

Special seating will be available inside the depot’s freight room, where visitors can enjoy food and scheduled entertainment throughout the event.

One of the day’s highlights will be the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum passenger train. The train is expected to reach the Summerville Depot between 12:30 and 1 p.m.

Following the arrival, the public will have an opportunity to watch the steam locomotive being turned on the Summerville Turntable. The turntable demonstration is a popular attraction among railroad enthusiasts and visitors.

Community members are invited to gather at the depot to welcome passengers as they arrive in downtown Summerville.

Organizers say the celebration is also intended to encourage residents and visitors to present the community to the state, nation and world with a positive attitude and a commitment to building friendships across cultures.

Admission to the Multicultural Market and train arrival celebration is free.

For additional information, visit the City of Summerville’s Facebook event page or contact Summerville Main Street at 706-859-0900.

Georgia Health Officials Urge Residents to Wash All Produce, Including Items Labeled “Prewashed”

The Georgia Department of Public Health is urging residents to take additional precautions when handling fresh fruits and vegetables following updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC updated its recommendations Tuesday to advise consumers to thoroughly wash all produce before eating, cutting or cooking it, including fruits and vegetables labeled “prewashed.”

The Georgia Department of Public Health revised a news release originally issued Monday to reflect the new recommendation as health officials continue monitoring a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis that has sickened more than 1,000 people.

DPH officials said they are not currently aware of any Georgia-specific outbreaks, clusters or potential connections to the multistate outbreak. A national investigation into possible common sources remains underway.

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite. People may become infected by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. According to DPH, treated water in the United States does not contain Cyclospora.

Cases acquired within the United States occur in Georgia each year, although state health officials say most cases are typically associated with international travel.

The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhea, which may include frequent or explosive bowel movements. Other symptoms may include bloating, stomach cramps and a loss of appetite.

Most people recover without serious complications, but hospitalization may be necessary when a person becomes dehydrated because of prolonged diarrhea. The illness may last from several days to more than a month. Symptoms may also appear to improve before returning one or more times.

Anyone experiencing prolonged or recurring symptoms is encouraged to contact a healthcare provider.

Health officials say basic food safety and hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of infection.

Consumers are advised to wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables. All produce should be thoroughly rinsed under running water before it is eaten, cut or cooked, even when the packaging says the product has already been washed.

Firm fruits and vegetables, including melons and cucumbers, should be scrubbed with a clean produce brush. Damaged or bruised portions should be removed before the produce is prepared or consumed.

Cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated as soon as possible and no later than two hours after preparation.

The updated guidance applies to fresh produce purchased from grocery stores, farmers markets and other retailers.

Chattooga Property Assessment Notices to Be Mailed Soon; Tax Commissioner Explains What Homeowners Can Expect

Chattooga County property owners should soon begin receiving their 2026 Property Assessment Notices in the mail, but Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton is reminding residents that the notices are not property tax bills.

According to Hampton, the assessment notices are mailed by the Chattooga County Property Assessor’s Office and are intended to provide property owners with information about their property’s assessed value, exemptions, and estimated tax savings, if applicable. The notices are part of the annual property assessment process and should not be confused with the actual tax bills, which will be mailed later this fall by the Chattooga County Tax Commissioner’s Office.

The assessment notice will include the property’s assessed value, any exemptions currently on file, and estimated tax savings associated with those exemptions. Residents who have questions about the values shown on the notice should contact the Property Assessor’s Office.

Hampton also announced that homeowners who qualify for a homestead exemption in 2026 will receive the Homeowner’s Tax Relief Grant (HTRG). The grant will be applied to homestead properties and will be calculated using $18,000 of assessed value for county, school, and city property taxes.

While the exact amount of the tax relief will not be known until local governments finalize their millage rates later this year, Hampton said the savings could be as much as $300 for some taxpayers.

In addition, FLOST/PTRLOST sales tax revenues will once again help reduce property taxes for county and city governments through lower millage rates. Hampton noted those sales tax proceeds cannot be used to reduce school property taxes, but taxpayers will continue to see the Local Option Sales Tax rollback reflected on the county and city portions of their property tax bills, similar to previous years.

Because millage rates have not yet been adopted by the county, municipalities, and school systems, Hampton said her office is not yet able to calculate or estimate individual property tax bills. Millage rates are expected to be finalized several weeks after assessment notices are mailed.

Actual property tax bills will be mailed later this fall and will include contact information for the Chattooga County Tax Commissioner’s Office.

Hampton said additional information will be released as the county continues working through the 2026 tax digest process.

Nearly 30 DUI Cases Dismissed Following Georgia State Patrol 'PIT for Pay' Investigation

Nearly 30 drunken driving cases in coastal Georgia have been dismissed after four former Georgia State Patrol troopers failed to appear in court following their termination in an investigation into what has become known as the “PIT for Pay” scandal.

Court records show 27 DUI prosecutions in Chatham County Recorder’s Court were dismissed after the former troopers, who had been subpoenaed as witnesses, did not appear for scheduled hearings. Without the arresting officers available to testify, prosecutors were unable to move forward with the cases.

The four troopers were fired in April after a Georgia Department of Public Safety investigation found they allegedly pursued personal injury claims against motorists following police pursuits in which they had performed Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuvers. Investigators said the troopers provided crash reports to a private attorney, who then sought insurance settlements from the drivers involved in the pursuits.

The internal investigation concluded the practice violated department ethics and conflict-of-interest policies. State investigators found the alleged scheme generated more than $83,000 in settlements after attorney fees, according to agency records.

The dismissals are expected to have continuing legal consequences. Additional DUI cases involving the former troopers remain on court calendars in the coming weeks and months, and prosecutors have indicated more cases could be dismissed if the former officers are unavailable or their credibility becomes an issue.

The four former troopers are also under investigation by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council, which will determine whether they will be allowed to retain or regain their law enforcement certification in Georgia.

The Georgia Department of Public Safety has emphasized that the alleged misconduct involved only a small number of officers and does not reflect the standards of the agency as a whole. The investigation into the former troopers’ actions and related insurance claims remains ongoing.

Georgia SNAP Payment Error Rate Among Nation's Highest, State Working to Improve Accuracy

Georgia continues to rank among the states with the highest payment error rates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), according to newly released federal data, prompting state officials to implement changes aimed at improving accuracy and avoiding future financial penalties.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports Georgia’s SNAP payment error rate for 2025 was 15.2 percent, well above the national average of 10.6 percent. The payment error rate measures benefits that were issued either above or below the correct amount based on a household’s eligibility. Federal officials emphasize that the figure does not measure fraud, but instead reflects mistakes made during the eligibility or benefit determination process, including both administrative errors and errors resulting from incorrect or incomplete information.

The findings come as changes to federal law place greater responsibility on states to improve program accuracy. Beginning in October, states will be responsible for 75 percent of SNAP administrative costs, up from the current 50 percent. States with persistently high payment error rates could also face additional cost-sharing requirements in future years if improvements are not made.

The Georgia Department of Human Services says it is taking steps to reduce payment errors by modernizing the eligibility system and increasing automation. State officials have launched a review of technology solutions and requested federal approval for additional automation intended to reduce manual processing errors and improve the accuracy of benefit determinations.

According to USDA, payment errors may occur when a household receives more benefits than it should, receives less than it qualifies for, or when eligibility is determined incorrectly. The agency noted that overpayments must be recovered and underpayments must be corrected so eligible households receive the proper benefit amount.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the payment error rates demonstrate the need for stronger accountability in administering the nation’s largest food assistance program. Federal officials say they will continue working with states to identify the causes of payment errors and implement improvements to ensure benefits are distributed accurately.

SNAP provides monthly food assistance to millions of low-income Americans, including thousands of Georgia families, helping them purchase groceries while meeting federal eligibility requirements.

Chattooga County Schools Seeking Maintenance Technician

The Chattooga County Board of Education is accepting applications for a Maintenance Technician to help maintain school facilities throughout the district.

According to the job posting, the position is responsible for supporting the school system’s maintenance program and performing repairs and preventive maintenance on school buildings and equipment. Duties include work involving electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, painting and other general maintenance responsibilities. The position also requires participation in an on-call rotation for emergency maintenance needs.

The school system is seeking applicants with a high school diploma or GED. HVAC certification and/or electrical experience are preferred. Candidates should have working knowledge of building maintenance trades, be able to work independently and as part of a team, climb ladders and scaffolding, lift heavy objects, and possess a valid Georgia driver’s license. Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a criminal background check and fingerprinting.

Applications may be obtained from the Superintendent’s Office or online under the Human Resources section of the Chattooga County School District website. Completed applications should include a completed application form, resume, three references, authorization for a background check, and fingerprinting paperwork.

Applications should be submitted to:

Donna Campbell, HR Director
Chattooga County Board of Education
33 Middle School Road
Summerville, GA 30747

For additional information, contact the Chattooga County Board of Education at 706-857-3447 or visit www.chattooga.k12.ga.us.

Rainy Pattern Continues Today Before Summer Heat Builds Later This Week

Residents of Chattooga County and northwest Georgia can expect another unsettled day of weather Tuesday as a slow-moving weather system continues to bring widespread showers and thunderstorms across the region. While the soaking rainfall has helped ease the recent stretch of extreme heat, forecasters say the pattern will gradually transition back to typical summertime conditions later this week, with temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat index values once again approaching or exceeding 100 degrees.

According to the National Weather Service, showers are likely throughout much of Tuesday, with thunderstorms becoming more numerous during the afternoon and evening hours. The greatest coverage is expected between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., although additional rounds of rain and thunderstorms are possible into Tuesday night. Tuesday’s high temperature is expected to reach around 82 degrees under mostly cloudy skies, with easterly winds around 5 mph and gusts up to 15 mph.

Rain chances decrease somewhat Tuesday night, but a few lingering showers and thunderstorms remain possible before skies begin to partially clear overnight. Temperatures will fall to around 69 degrees.

The unsettled weather will continue into Wednesday as another round of showers and thunderstorms develops, particularly during the afternoon. Wednesday’s high is expected to reach approximately 86 degrees before thunderstorms taper off Wednesday evening.

Meteorologists say the current weather pattern is being driven by a weakening area of high pressure to the north and a broad area of low pressure across the south-central and southeastern United States. As the low pressure system gradually weakens and shifts westward toward Texas during the middle of the week, Georgia will transition back into a more familiar summertime weather pattern.

Instead of widespread rain covering much of the state, thunderstorms will become more isolated to scattered and will primarily develop during the hottest part of the afternoon as daytime heating combines with abundant Gulf moisture. Even though storm coverage will become less widespread, any thunderstorm that develops will still have the potential to produce very heavy rainfall.

Forecasters note that atmospheric moisture levels will remain unusually high through much of the week, with precipitable water values exceeding two inches. That means slow-moving thunderstorms will be capable of producing torrential downpours in a short period of time, leading to localized flooding in poor drainage areas, along roadways, and in low-lying locations. Motorists are encouraged to use caution if they encounter water covering roadways and should never attempt to drive through flooded areas.

While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, thunderstorms will still be capable of producing dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning, gusty winds, and brief periods of reduced visibility due to heavy rain.

Beginning Thursday, rain chances will decrease to about 50 percent during the afternoon and evening as sunshine becomes more prevalent. High temperatures will climb to around 90 degrees Thursday and remain in the lower 90s through the weekend. Daily afternoon and evening thunderstorms will continue to develop, but they are expected to be more typical of July, affecting scattered locations rather than the entire region.

By Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, afternoon highs are forecast to reach between 90 and 92 degrees with overnight lows remaining in the lower 70s. Combined with the increasing humidity, afternoon heat index values are expected to rise back into the upper 90s and lower 100s.

The National Weather Service says portions of Georgia, particularly areas south and east of metro Atlanta, could approach Heat Advisory criteria later this week if forecast temperatures and humidity continue to increase. While northwest Georgia may remain just below advisory levels, residents should still be prepared for hot and humid conditions and take precautions if spending extended time outdoors.

Looking ahead to early next week, forecasters expect a large area of high pressure to build across the western United States. That pattern will place Georgia in a northwesterly flow aloft, allowing occasional weather disturbances to move into the Southeast. Those disturbances could bring periodic increases in thunderstorm activity while maintaining the familiar cycle of hot mornings, scattered afternoon storms, and warm, humid nights.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts throughout the week, particularly if planning outdoor activities. Keep an eye on the sky for developing thunderstorms, move indoors when thunder is heard, and stay hydrated as summer heat begins to return.

Tuesday
Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 2pm, then showers and thunderstorms likely between 2pm and 5pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 5pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. East wind around 5 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Tuesday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm, then a slight chance of showers between 11pm and midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Wednesday
A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 11am. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Wednesday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Thursday
A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Thursday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Friday
A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Friday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Saturday
A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.
Saturday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 73.
Sunday
A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.
Sunday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Monday
A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.

Georgia Gas Prices Tick Up Slightly as Summer Travel, Oil Costs Push Prices Higher

Sample Image

After several weeks of declining fuel prices, Georgia motorists are seeing a slight increase at the pump as higher crude oil prices and strong summer travel demand begin to push gasoline prices upward.

According to AAA, the Georgia average for regular unleaded is now $3.58 per gallon, up 4 cents from last week, but still 21 cents lower than a month ago. Drivers are paying about 66 cents more than they were this time last year, with a typical 15-gallon fill-up costing approximately $53.55.

“While Georgia drivers are paying a bit more at the pump this week, the increase remains relatively modest,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Fluctuations in crude oil prices, seasonal travel demand and conflict in the Middle East continue to influence fuel cost. Drivers should continue to expect routine price changes throughout the summer driving season.”

Nationally, the average price for regular gasoline climbed 7 cents to $3.88 per gallon, ending a steady decline that began in late May. AAA says uncertainty surrounding conflict in the Middle East continues to influence global oil markets, even as crude oil remains in the low $70-per-barrel range.

Local AAA Average Gas Prices

Georgia

  • Chattooga County: $3.55
  • Floyd County: $3.56
  • Walker County: $3.55 (AAA Catoosa-Dade-Walker average)
  • Gordon County: $3.52

Alabama

  • DeKalb County: $3.43
  • Cherokee County: $3.43

AAA encourages motorists to compare prices before filling up, enroll in fuel rewards programs when available, maintain proper tire pressure, and avoid aggressive driving to improve fuel economy. Drivers can also use the AAA TripTik Travel Planner to locate the lowest gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations along their routes.

City of Summerville to Celebrate Recreation Improvements with Two Open House Events

The City of Summerville is inviting the public to attend two open house celebrations later this month highlighting recent improvements to the city’s recreational facilities.

The first event will be held Wednesday, July 22, at 11 a.m. at the Summerville Recreation Center, where city officials will celebrate the installation of the facility’s new gymnasium HVAC system.

A second celebration is scheduled for Friday, July 24, at 8:30 p.m. at Dunson Field, where the city will officially unveil the new MUSCO ballfield lighting system during youth baseball and softball games.

Summerville Parks and Recreation Director Adam Wilson said both events are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend as the city marks the completion of these important recreation projects.

American Red Cross Declares Emergency Blood Shortage, Urges Donors to Give Now

Sample Image

The American Red Cross is asking donors to roll up their sleeves after declaring an emergency blood shortage caused by a sharp decline in donations during June. The organization says its blood supply dropped nearly 25 percent, creating a growing gap between available blood and hospital demand. The shortage is especially critical for platelets, O-positive blood, and B-negative blood.

According to the Red Cross, hospitals are currently using nearly 3,500 more units of blood each week than expected, while summer vacations, busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives have contributed to fewer donations. Officials warn that if the trend continues, patient care could be affected.

“A readily available blood supply serves as the backbone of modern medicine,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, medical director for the Red Cross. “Emergency departments, operating rooms and labor and delivery units can’t support patients with the most urgent needs, and cancer patients must wait. We’re asking donors to give now before doctors are forced to make those difficult decisions.”

The Red Cross notes that someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion every two seconds, yet fewer than one in five people realize blood cannot be stockpiled because of its limited shelf life.

To encourage donations, everyone who gives blood between July 13 and July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, valid for up to $15 toward the ticket price and fees. Appointments can be scheduled through the Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The nearest scheduled blood drives in the region include Chatsworth on July 14 and Rockmart on July 16.

AdventHealth Redmond Hosting Hiring Event Friday in Rome

AdventHealth Redmond will hold a hiring event Friday, July 17, as the hospital works to fill a variety of clinical and support positions.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in Classrooms A and B at AdventHealth Redmond in Rome. Hospital leaders will be available to conduct interviews, with same-day job offers and sign-on bonuses available for certain positions.

Openings are available in several departments, including registered nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, surgical services and environmental services.

New employees are eligible for a benefits package beginning on their first day, including paid time off, professional development opportunities and student loan repayment assistance for qualifying positions.

Candidates are encouraged to register in advance through the AdventHealth Careers website.

Chattooga County Back to School Bash Fully Stocked Ahead of Thursday Event

Chattooga County Community Resource Center Director Maisha Ludy says the community has provided every item needed for this year’s Back to School Bash, several days before the event.

Ludy announced Monday that all requested school supplies and other needed items have been collected. She said that in six years of coordinating the event, the organization has never completed its supply collection this far in advance.

The annual Back to School Bash will be held Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Chattooga High School.

The event will include free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, community resources and other activities for local students and families.

Organizers remind parents and guardians that children must be present to receive a backpack and school supplies.

Ludy thanked residents, businesses and organizations across the county for their generosity and support, saying the early response reflects the strength of the Chattooga County community.