Residents of Northwest Georgia should be prepared for the possibility of isolated thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. According to the National Weather Service, a few storms could produce an isolated damaging wind gust in far Northwest Georgia, where a Marginal Risk of severe thunderstorms (Level 1 out of 5) is in effect. The forecast for the remainder of the week calls for continued chances of isolated thunderstorms across North and Central Georgia from Tuesday through Saturday, with the highest probabilities in North Georgia. While widespread severe storms are not expected at this time, residents should remain aware of changing weather conditions. Today, there’s a 30 percent chance of showers after 3 PM. The day will be mostly sunny with a high near 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Southwest winds will blow between 5 and 10 mph, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are likely, primarily before 2 AM, followed by a likely chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 3 AM. Expect mostly cloudy skies and a low around 61 degrees. Precipitation chances stand at 70%, with potential rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half of an inch. Tuesday brings an 80% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm, with a high near 77 degrees. Rainfall amounts are expected to be similar to tonight. The unsettled weather pattern is predicted to persist through Wednesday and Thursday, with continued chances of showers and thunderstorms.

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

An attempt to smuggle contraband into Hays State Prison was thwarted last week after a drone delivery went awry, leaving a trail of tobacco and cell phones scattered near the facility. According to Chattooga County Sheriff’s reports, deputies responded to a call regarding suspicious bags of tobacco found on a property adjacent to the prison. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies discovered several vacuum-sealed bags of what appeared to be tobacco strewn across the ground. Further investigation led them to a black bag lodged in a tree above the scattered tobacco. With the homeowner’s assistance, deputies retrieved the bag and found it contained additional vacuum-sealed bags of tobacco and two prepaid AT&T cell phones. “This discovery is indicative of an attempt to smuggle contraband into the facility,” stated the sheriff’s report. All seized items, including the tobacco and cell phones, have been placed into evidence and will be examined to determine their origin and intended recipients within the prison. The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to investigate the incident.

A Trion man is set to face trial after being indicted by the Chattooga County Grand Jury last week on multiple counts of sex crimes involving children. According to grand jury records, Daniel Luke Cornett, of 191 Elm Street, Trion, was indicted on two counts of aggravated child molestation, two counts of statutory rape, and two counts of child molestation. The indictment comes after evidence was presented to the grand jury saying that Cornett engaged in sexual intercourse with a child between January 5, 2024, and February 26, 2024. The grand jury found enough evidence for Cornett to stand trial on the charges. The case will now proceed to trial in Chattooga County Superior Court.

Coffman Funeral Home Pettit Chapel is nearing completion of a new crematory, marking a significant development for funeral services in Chattooga County. Responding to rising cremation rates and increasing funeral costs, the facility will offer local families the option of in-county cremation services, ensuring their loved ones remain under Coffman’s care from start to finish. Owner Jamey Coffman cites a surge in cremation requests since the COVID-19 pandemic, with cremation services now accounting for nearly half of his business. Beyond evolving cultural preferences, the escalating costs of traditional burials, including rising cemetery fees, are a major factor driving the shift. “Everything is just getting more and more expensive,” Coffman stated, highlighting the financial strain traditional burials place on families. The new crematory, constructed within an existing structure behind the funeral home, will house a state-of-the-art cremation machine powered by natural gas. This allows Coffman Funeral Home to provide comprehensive, in-house cremation services, keeping families local and ensuring loved ones never leave their care. The crematory is expected to be fully operational later this year.

The City of Summerville is currently accepting applications for a Part-Time Main Street Assistant to support the Main Street Manager in daily operations and community initiatives. This position offers a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the beautification and vibrancy of Summerville’s downtown area. The Main Street Part-Time Assistant will be responsible for watering and maintaining the decorative planters that enhance the downtown streetscape. A key aspect of the role involves assisting with a variety of special events, including those held at the depot and throughout downtown, as well as participating in ongoing beautification projects. Candidates must be prepared for physical demands, including the ability to lift 50-75 lbs. The position involves a combination of fieldwork and office duties. Flexibility is crucial, as the role requires availability for flexible hours, including limited weekends and evenings. Minimum qualifications include possessing a valid driver’s license. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit an employment application to the City of Summerville. You can find a link to apply online HERE

The head of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce issued a stark warning about the growing impact of international trade tariffs on the state’s economy.

Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, stated that the ongoing trade war, particularly between the United States and China, is now directly affecting businesses across all sectors in Georgia. “All of our businesses in Georgia are trying to make sense right now in Washington, particularly in Beijing,” Clark said. “We are seeing impacts across the board to every sector in the state.” Clark highlighted the potential negative effects on Georgia’s thriving film industry, noting that China’s National Film Administration is limiting the number of U.S. productions allowed in the Chinese market. He also expressed concerns about rising costs for construction companies due to tariffs on steel and concrete, and the unease felt by farmers in the agricultural sector. The Trump administration has imposed a 10% tariff on most U.S. imports, with a significantly higher 145% tariff on goods from China.

Clark is advising Georgia businesses to explore diversifying their markets, suggesting they look to countries like India and Indonesia as alternative trade partners. He also urged businesses to stockpile products where possible to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. “I’ve encouraged the small businesses that I have talked to look to India, look at Indonesia and look at other market partners right now and go ahead and start ordering and start diversifying your product line today,” Clark said. “You should not wait thinking in 90 days this will all go away and be better. I think we’re in particularly on the Chinese front we are in for a long haul here.” The Georgia Chamber is currently advising larger employers, particularly in the manufacturing sector, to stockpile goods and products they are importing.

The Chamber emphasizes that the volatility and uncertainty of the trade battle pose a significant challenge for Georgia companies as they work to evaluate potential disruptions.

Patty Durand, a former candidate for the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), has launched a new nonprofit organization, Georgia Utility Watch, dedicated to bringing transparency and accountability to energy regulation in the state.

The organization aims to advocate for fair electric rates, a more transparent PSC, and more accountable state leadership on energy issues. Durand’s initiative comes after what she describes as a lack of oversight regarding utility policies in Georgia. In her inaugural newsletter, she stated, “Decisions are made with complete disregard for the state mandate to set rates that are just and reasonable. Never, ever are people prioritized or protected.” Durand specifically pointed to a 23.7% rate increase for Georgia Power’s residential customers last year, which she believes went unchecked by the PSC and the General Assembly. She also criticized the legislature’s failure to reinstate the Consumer Utility Counsel, which was disbanded in 2008, and Governor Kemp’s veto of a bill that would have temporarily suspended a tax exemption for data centers. Further, a bill aimed at preventing Georgia Power from passing on data center electricity costs to residential customers failed to reach a Senate vote.

Durand also highlighted the alarming statistic that nearly 200,000 Georgia Power households were disconnected last year, underscoring the urgency of the issues Georgia Utility Watch aims to address.

The organization plans to advocate for policy changes and increased public awareness regarding energy regulation in Georgia.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) and the City of Summerville, Georgia, have announced the first steam passenger train excursion of 2025, scheduled for May 3, 2025. The all-day train ride will transport passengers on a historic journey from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the heart of Summerville, Georgia, offering a unique opportunity to experience the golden age of rail travel. The train will depart from TVRM’s Grand Junction depot in Chattanooga at 9 A.M. and return at approximately 6 P.M. The scenic route crosses the Tennessee-Georgia state line in Rossville, meandering through the outskirts of the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park and passing through Chickamauga, Rock Spring, LaFayette, and Trion before arriving in Summerville. Upon arrival in Summerville, passengers can enjoy “May Market & Melodies,” a festive celebration at the Historic Summerville Depot from 10 AM- 3 PM. The event will feature live music, delicious food, and a variety of craft vendors, offering a taste of Summerville’s local culture and community. The steam train excursion offers a nostalgic journey through beautiful landscapes, combined with a vibrant community celebration in Summerville. Round-trip tickets from Chattanooga start at $90. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s website HERE

Residents of Northwestl Georgia can expect another day of warm temperatures, with highs reaching the mid-80s; significant cloud cover will likely keep temperatures from soaring even higher. A weather system approaching from the west is bringing increased cloud cover today, particularly in northern Georgia. The chance of rain will significantly increase across northern Georgia on Monday as a front stalls to the north. Forecasters are predicting that Monday afternoon will see the potential for scattered storms across northern Georgia as the front approaches and surface-based instability builds. While severe weather is not anticipated due to a lack of wind shear, a few strong storms could briefly develop before fading after sunset. The extended forecast anticipates the stalled front bringing rain to northern Georgia Monday night and Tuesday. With the low-pressure system remaining to the north, the front is expected to linger across Northwest Georgia, leading to continued rainfall along that boundary. Beyond Tuesday, expect daily rain chances throughout the week, with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms driven by diurnal heating. Rainfall totals from the Monday/Tuesday system are currently forecast to be around 1 inch.

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

The national cannabis holiday ‘4/20’ can mean high stakes on our nation’s roadways. Recent AAA research revealed an alarming statistic: about 85% of cannabis users admit to driving the same day after consumption.

“No matter the legality or medical prescription of cannabis, taking the wheel while impaired by its effects is not only unlawful but extremely dangerous,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Think about it – when cruising on cloud nine, your reaction time, sharpness, and judgment can take a serious hit. Zipping around in that zoned-out zone means you’re making the road unsafe for everyone else.”

A recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety used surveys to better understand cannabis consumers’ behaviors and perceptions of themselves. A few key themes emerged from survey respondents who are confirmed cannabis consumers:

• Daily and frequent consumption – 44.1% said they consume cannabis multiple times per day
• Driving regularly – 57.8% indicated that they drive daily
• Consuming then driving is common – 84.8% revealed that they drive the same day that they consume cannabis, with 53% saying they consumed an hour or less before driving
• Believe consumption has little effect on driving – 46.9% believe they either drive the same, a little better (14.7%), or much better (19.4%)
• Cannabis industry carries weight – 38.6% said they would trust messaging about cannabis use and safe driving from cannabis industry groups and cannabis brands/companies (37.3%)

“The road requires clear heads, not clouded minds,” said Waiters. “If you plan to celebrate 4/20, find a safe ride before taking any impairing substances. This is critical so drivers do not have to decide if they’re sober enough to drive.”

‘Crashes Hit Different’ Campaign 

The effort to educate drivers about the dangers of impaired driving and other risky behaviors behind the wheel is part of AAA – The Auto Club Group’s new traffic safety campaign, “Crashes Hit Different.” On average, someone is killed in a car crash every 12 minutes on our nation’s roads, primarily due to four factors: impaired driving, distractions, not buckling up, and speed. By partnering with roadway safety organizations, community groups, and drivers themselves, AAA aims to prevent these senseless tragedies.

Find more AAA information regarding cannabis-impaired driving here.

The Georgia Department of Education is recognizing 145 graduating seniors across Georgia as 2025 Georgia Scholars, announced by State School Superintendent Richard Woods.

GaDOE identifies and honors high school seniors who have achieved excellence in school and community life through the Georgia Scholar program. Each honoree receives a seal for their diploma along with a graduation cord to recognize their achievement.

“Congratulations to the 145 outstanding students honored as Georgia Scholars this year!” Superintendent Woods said. “This prestigious recognition identifies students who go above and beyond in all aspects of life – both within the school walls and in the community. I wish them great success in their futures and can’t wait to see the impact they make on our state, nation, and world.”

Georgia Scholars carried exemplary course loads during their four years of high school, performed excellently in all courses, successfully participated in interscholastic events within their schools and communities, and assumed leadership roles in extracurricular activities sponsored by their schools. Click here to view the full program criteria.

The Georgia Scholar program is coordinated by GaDOE in partnership with local districts and schools.

The City of Summerville is currently accepting applications for the position of Police Officer with the Summerville Police Department. This vital role will involve protecting life and property, enforcing laws, and investigating crimes within the city.

The position requires a dedicated individual capable of responding to a variety of calls, including domestic disputes, burglaries, traffic accidents, and suspicious activity. Key responsibilities include patrolling assigned areas, writing detailed reports, apprehending traffic violators, providing first aid, conducting criminal investigations, and testifying in court when necessary. Officers must also be prepared to assist other law enforcement agencies, secure crime scenes, and perform public service duties such as assisting stranded motorists. The role involves arresting and processing prisoners, maintaining patrol vehicles and weapons, and serving warrants. The work environment can be demanding, requiring officers to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Exposure to potential hazards such as noise, dust, and potentially infectious diseases is possible.

Applicants must possess a high school diploma and have sufficient experience to understand the principles of police work, typically gained through an apprenticeship, internship, or similar position held for one to two years. A valid Georgia driver’s license is required, along with the ability to meet the standards set by the Police Standards and Training Council for the State of Georgia.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to serve and protect the Summerville community. Applications are available through the City of Summerville’s website HERE

Get ready for a weekend of thrilling rodeo action as Lowry’s 4L Ranch hosts its annual Back Rodeo on May 16th and 17th! The event kicks off at 8:00 PM each night at Lowry’s Covered Arena on Farmersville Rd, just off Hwy 27 South of Summerville. Presented by Harvey’s Southend Auto and Mathis Equipment, this year’s rodeo promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring exciting competitions and talented riders. Tickets are available for purchase in advance at a discounted rate. Adult tickets (12+) are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Children’s tickets (ages 6-11) are $10 both in advance and at the gate. Children five and under are admitted free. Don’t miss out! Purchase your advanced tickets at the following locations: United Community Bank – Summerville & Mt. Berry Square Rome, Dirttown Deli – Gore, Southern Living Farm & Garden – Trion and Pineridge Outdoor Supply – Lyerly Gates open at 6 PM each night. Cash ONLY accepted at the gate.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary report regarding the tragic plane crash that occurred on March 20th at Barwick-LaFayette Airport. While the report doesn’t name the individuals involved, it confirms the fatal incident that claimed the lives of Russell Edward Jones of LaFayette and Steven Boyd Powell of Cartersville during a training flight. According to the preliminary NTSB report, the Cirrus SR-22 aircraft took off around 2:21 PM and circled the runway twice. On the third circle, the plane reportedly encountered an unspecified issue, leading to the crash. The aircraft subsequently exploded and burst into flames. The NTSB is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash. A final, comprehensive report detailing the findings and probable cause is expected to be released at a later date. The current preliminary report offers only a basic outline of the events leading up to the devastating incident.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, Feeding Georgia, and the Young Lawyers Division (YLD) of the State Bar of Georgia are launching the 14th Annual Georgia Legal Food Frenzy, a two-week fundraising event for the state’s regional food banks. The competition will take place from April 14-25, 2025, and invites all members of the legal community, including law firms, legal organizations, corporate counsel, clerks, and judges. Since it started, the Legal Food Frenzy has raised $6. 7 million, providing over 26. 8 million meals to those in need. This year, the goal is to surpass previous totals and assist even more families, children, and seniors facing food shortages. Attorney General Carr encourages lawyers to donate the equivalent of one billable hour to help provide more meals. Each dollar raised supplies up to four meals for struggling Georgians. The initiative is vital as nearly one in eight children in Georgia is at risk of hunger. Registration for the 2025 Georgia Legal Food Frenzy is open until April 25th.