Arrest Report - Wednesday - April 29, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, April 29, 2026:
Stormy Pattern Continues Across Northwest Georgia With Cooler Weekend Ahead
A wet and unsettled weather pattern continues across the region today, bringing periods of showers, embedded thunderstorms, breezy conditions, and the possibility of stronger storms later tonight.
Morning showers and storms are expected to gradually taper off, but a few rumbles of thunder and gusty winds may linger as the system moves through. Forecasters say breezy conditions could continue into the afternoon, especially along the back edge of the precipitation.
A brief break in the rain is possible for many areas later today, although isolated showers and a thunderstorm cannot be ruled out, especially across parts of North Georgia. Temperatures will depend heavily on cloud cover, with some areas reaching the 70s while places that stay socked in may remain cooler.
Another round of showers and thunderstorms is possible later today and into early Thursday as a disturbance moves across the region. Some storms could become strong to marginally severe, with isolated damaging wind gusts being the main concern.
The unsettled pattern is expected to continue into the weekend. Friday looks cooler and mostly cloudy, with highs only reaching the 60s in many North Georgia communities. Widespread rainfall is possible Friday night into Saturday, with many areas potentially seeing one to two inches of rain.
By Sunday, drier and cooler air should move in, with morning lows dipping into the 40s and afternoon highs staying in the 60s across much of North Georgia.
People across Chattooga County and surrounding Northwest Georgia communities should stay weather-aware through tonight, especially if storms move in during the evening or overnight hours.
Paradise Garden Celebrates Preservation Honor And Parade Tradition
It was a milestone this past weekend for Paradise Garden, as the nonprofit behind Howard Finster’s famous folk art environment received statewide recognition for historic preservation.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation presented the Paradise Garden Foundation with an Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for its restoration of Rev. Finster’s World’s Folk Art Church. The award recognizes projects that preserve the historic character of a property while returning buildings to useful and compatible service.
Danielle Meunier, Preservation Programs Coordinator for the Georgia Trust, praised the Foundation’s work, calling it an “outstanding contribution to historic preservation in Georgia.”
Foundation leaders, board members, project partners, and supporters accepted the award during ceremonies at the Strand Theatre in Marietta. The multiyear restoration effort was supported by the architecture firm Lord Aeck Sargent, with major planning and fundraising led by Paradise Garden executive director emeritus Tina Cox. Eddy Willingham, who stepped away from the board to manage the restoration project, also played an important role in bringing the work to completion.
The celebration continued later that day at the annual Inman Park Festival parade. Paradise Garden supporters joined the festivities wearing angel wings in honor of the flying angels often seen in Finster’s artwork. Along the parade route, they handed out angel wing bracelets and save-the-date cards for Finster Fest, set for September 19 and 20.
For Paradise Garden, the day was both a celebration of preservation and a tribute to the enduring spirit of Howard Finster’s art.
City Of Summerville Seeking Bids For Outdoor Basketball Court Pavilion
The City of Summerville is accepting sealed bids for the construction and installation of an outdoor basketball court clear-span pavilion.
Bids will be received at Summerville City Hall, located at 120 Georgia Avenue, until 10:00 AM on May 22, 2026. Bids will be opened the same day at 10:00 AM in the City Hall Council Room.
The project is listed as RFB-2026-123 Outdoor Basketball Court Pavilion. All bids must be submitted in sealed envelopes with the project name clearly marked on the outside.
City officials say bids must remain valid for 60 business days, and late submissions will not be accepted. The bid will not be awarded until designated city officials have had time to review each submission.
Click Here for Bid Document
Theft Reported On Highland Avenue In Summerville
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a theft by taking case reported at a residence on Highland Avenue.
According to the incident report, the case involves stolen property from the home, including several cans of Diet Coke with a reported value of about five dollars.
The incident was classified as “all other larceny,” and no suspect information was immediately available at the time of the report. Authorities say the case remains under investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Summerville Police Department.
Narcan Kits Being Distributed To Northwest Georgia Schools
Opioid overdose reversal kits are being distributed to 180 schools across Northwest Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is partnering with Northwest Georgia RESA as part of a statewide effort to equip every public school in Georgia with Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
A “Stuff the Box” event was held Tuesday, April 21, where local education, behavioral health, and public safety professionals helped assemble the kits for schools in the region. Several schools picked up their completed kits the same day.
State officials say the effort is funded through opioid settlement dollars and supports Wesley’s Law, which allows schools to obtain and administer opioid antagonists while providing legal protections for staff acting in good faith.
The statewide initiative has already reached more than 1,300 schools, with a goal of equipping 2,300 schools by the end of the school year.
Georgia’s Rome Tourism Offering History Tours Across Rome
Georgia’s Rome Office of Tourism is inviting residents and visitors to step back in time with a series of story-driven tours highlighting the people, places, and events that shaped Rome’s history.
Upcoming tours include the Where Romans Rest tours at Myrtle Hill Cemetery on Sunday, May 3, with tour times at 1:30, 2:00, and 3:00 PM. Myrtle Hill Cemetery was established in 1857 and is the final resting place of more than 20,000 people, including Civil War soldiers, political figures, and Ellen Axson Wilson, wife of President Woodrow Wilson.
Other offerings include the Sulzbacher Roman Holiday Riverboat Tours on the Coosa River, Rome Clocktower Public Tours, and Downtown History Tours aboard the Roman Chariots. Each tour focuses on Rome’s historic landmarks, river heritage, architecture, and preservation efforts.
Tickets are available online at RomeGeorgia.org/Tours or in person at Georgia’s Rome Welcome Center locations on Civic Center Drive and Broad Street in Rome. Ticket proceeds benefit local historic preservation efforts.
Vidalia Onion Pickup Today At Chattooga Ag Center
It’s onion pickup day in Chattooga County as the Chattooga County Young Farmers hold their annual fundraiser.
Organizers say customers who placed orders can pick up their Georgia-Grown Vidalia onions today from noon until 6 PM at the Chattooga County Ag Center. Those who ordered through individual Young Farmer members will be contacted directly to arrange pickup or delivery.
The annual sale is a major fundraiser for the group’s scholarship program, which supports local students. This year’s event has been especially successful, with more than 10,000 pounds of Vidalia onions sold.
The Chattooga County Young Farmers host the sale each year, continuing a long-standing tradition that supports education while promoting Georgia agriculture.
Trion Water System Reminds Customers Of Statewide Level 1 Drought Response
The Town of Trion water system is reminding its customers that the Georgia Environmental Protection Division has issued a statewide Level 1 drought response as dry conditions continue to impact much of Georgia, including Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
According to a letter dated April 27 from EPD Director Jeffrey Cown, the state is experiencing widespread drought conditions, with some areas reaching severe levels. The declaration requires public water systems to begin conservation efforts and increase public awareness.
Under Level 1 guidelines, residents are encouraged to reduce water use by fixing leaks, avoiding running water unnecessarily, and limiting outdoor watering. General landscape watering may be done between 4 PM and 10 AM, meaning watering should not take place during the hottest part of the day.
Officials say the goal is to promote responsible water use and protect water resources as drought conditions persist across the region.
Burglary Reported At Summerville Residence On Houston London Drive
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a burglary reported at a residence on Houston London Drive.
According to the incident report, the break-in involved a home where several items were taken, including a smoker grill, a Black Cricket cellphone, and a 50-inch Roku flat screen television. The total value of the stolen property was estimated at more than $1,100.
The victim told officers the residence had been locked prior to the incident, and there were no obvious signs of forced entry when the report was taken. Authorities say the items were discovered missing after the fact, and the case has been turned over for further investigation.
Police have not released any suspect information at this time. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Summerville Police Department as the investigation continues.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - April 28, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, April 28, 2026:
Severe Storm Threat Returns To Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
An unsettled weather pattern is moving into Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, bringing several rounds of showers and thunderstorms and the potential for strong to severe storms.
Forecasters say the first round of storms could impact Northwest Georgia Tuesday morning, with additional storms possible Tuesday night into Wednesday. Some storms may become strong to severe, with damaging wind gusts, hail, and an isolated spin-up tornado among the main concerns.
The greatest concern for Chattooga County and surrounding areas appears to be during the Tuesday night into early Wednesday time frame, when another organized line of storms is expected to move in from the west. While storms may weaken as they move across Georgia, residents are still encouraged to stay weather-aware.
Despite multiple rounds of rain in the forecast, forecasters say the ongoing drought is not expected to see much meaningful improvement. Dry conditions continue to impact parts of Northwest Georgia, and rainfall totals may not be enough to provide long-term relief.
Temperatures will remain fairly seasonal through midweek, with highs generally in the 70s and 80s. A cooler and wetter pattern is expected late in the week and into the weekend, with more rain chances possible Friday night into Saturday.
Residents should monitor the forecast closely, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings in case severe storms develop.
Chattooga County Rabies Clinic Scheduled
Summerville Veterinary Clinic will host a rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, May 16, at Chattooga High School.
The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the school’s parking lot. Pet owners are asked to enter from the Highway 100 entrance and follow posted signs and arrows.
Rabies vaccinations will be available for $10 each. The clinic will be conducted as a drive-through service, with pets remaining inside vehicles while vaccinations are administered.
Organizers say the event offers a convenient and affordable way for residents to keep their pets up to date on rabies vaccinations.
Chattooga County Plant Swap Set For May 2 In Teloga
The 6th Annual Chattooga County Plant Swap is set to take place Saturday, May 2, at Teloga Spring Farm in Summerville.
The event will be held at the farm, located at 9505 Highway 337, and will bring together plant lovers from across the community for a day of sharing and fellowship.
Attendees are encouraged to bring plants to swap, trade, or share with others. Organizers say the event is designed to promote gardening, sustainability, and community connection.
In addition to the plant swap, the event will feature a bake sale, a variety of vendors, and food trucks. Donations collected during the event will benefit the Animal Advocates of Chattooga County and the Teloga Fire Department.
Organizers note the event will be cash-only, and cell service may be limited in the area.
The plant swap continues to grow each year, offering residents a chance to exchange plants, learn from fellow gardeners, and enjoy a day outdoors.
Hurley Community Development Center Earns Michael L. Starr Award
A major preservation project in Summerville has received one of Georgia’s top historic preservation honors.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation has awarded the 2026 Michael L. Starr Award to the Hurley Community Development Center, recognizing the project as an outstanding example of historic rehabilitation with meaningful impact on its downtown community.
The honor was announced ahead of the Trust’s annual Preservation Awards ceremony, held April 25 at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta. The Michael L. Starr Award is given to projects that meet the highest standards of preservation while contributing significantly to the vitality of the surrounding area.
In a letter announcing the award, Georgia Trust President and CEO W. Wright Mitchell commended the project’s excellence and its positive influence on Summerville’s downtown.
The Hurley Community Development Center project involved extensive planning, restoration, and collaboration among design and engineering partners to preserve the structure’s historic character while adapting it for modern community use.
Leaders and project representatives were recognized during the ceremony, where preservation efforts from across the state were celebrated.
The recognition highlights continued investment in preserving Summerville’s historic assets and underscores the importance of adaptive reuse in strengthening local communities.
Back To School Bash Seeking Donations And Community Partners
Chattooga Family Connection is preparing for this year’s Back to School Bash, scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4 until 6 PM at Chattooga High School.
Organizer Maisha Ludy says last year’s event was a major success, serving a total of 396 students as they prepared to return to the classroom. That included 254 elementary students, 97 middle school students and 45 high school students.
This year, organizers are hoping to make the event even bigger and better for local families. They are currently accepting school supply donations, monetary donations, and community partners or vendors who would like to set up at the event and share helpful resources with families.
The Back to School Bash will serve students from both Chattooga and Trion. Families will be able to connect with local resources while students receive support and supplies for the upcoming school year.
Anyone interested in donating, partnering, or setting up as a vendor can contact Maisha Ludy at 706-388-9849 or email maishaludy@gmail.com.
Trion Athletics Hosting Multiple Youth Sports Camps This Summer
Trion athletics programs are gearing up for a busy summer, offering several youth sports camps for local students looking to build skills and stay active.
The Trion Bulldog Basketball Kiddie Camp is set for June 17-18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a cost of $30 per child. The camp is open to upcoming 3rd through 7th graders for the 2026–2027 school year.
Trion Football will also host a youth camp June 3-5 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sam R. McCain Stadium. The camp is open to children ages 5 through 12 and will include instruction from coaches and players. Cost is $30 per camper and includes a T-shirt, with registration and payment accepted at the stadium.
In addition, Trion High School Softball will hold a youth camp June 1-2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the J.W. Greenwood Athletic Complex softball field. The camp is open to ages 5 through 12, costs $30, and includes a T-shirt. Participants are asked to bring a water bottle, bat, and glove, and to register by May 8 to guarantee a shirt.
All camps will focus on fundamentals, skill development, and providing a fun learning environment for young athletes.
AdventHealth Redmond Earns National Nursing Excellence Designation
AdventHealth Redmond has earned the prestigious Pathway to Excellence® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a national recognition honoring health care organizations that create healthy, empowering work environments where nurses can thrive.
Hospital leaders say the designation reflects AdventHealth Redmond’s commitment to supporting its nursing team, improving job satisfaction, strengthening safety, and enhancing patient outcomes while continuing its mission of delivering whole-person care. Isaac Sendros, president and CEO of AdventHealth Redmond, said the recognition affirms how the hospital cares for team members as they care for the community.
The Pathway to Excellence Program recognizes hospitals that listen to and engage nurses at every level, encourage shared decision-making, and provide resources for professional growth. AdventHealth Redmond says only a select number of hospitals in the region have achieved the designation, placing it among an elite group recognized nationally for nursing excellence.
Chief Nursing Officer Trish Price said the honor reflects a culture where nurses’ voices are heard, their contributions are valued, and they are supported in delivering safe, compassionate, high-quality care each day.
For patients and community members, AdventHealth Redmond says the designation offers added confidence that care is delivered by engaged and supported nurses in an environment focused on safety, collaboration, and excellence.
Austin Sisk Named Good Samaritan Volunteer Of The Year At Atrium Health Floyd
Austin Sisk was honored April 27 as the Atrium Health Floyd Good Samaritan Volunteer of the Year, marking a remarkable milestone in his recovery journey following a life-threatening accident in 2022.
Just months after graduating high school, Sisk suffered a traumatic brain injury in a crash that left him in a coma and on a ventilator. After weeks in intensive care and months of rehabilitation, he regained the ability to walk and speak, continuing therapy through Atrium Health Floyd Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.
Although his goal of becoming a physical therapy assistant was impacted by his injuries, Sisk chose to return to the rehab gym as a volunteer. Therapists say he now plays a vital role encouraging patients, offering support, and motivating others by sharing his own experience overcoming a traumatic brain injury.
Hospital leaders say Sisk’s recognition represents a “full-circle moment,” highlighting his resilience, compassion, and ability to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Sisk is joined by three other 2026 Good Samaritans of the Year: Christine Barham, who volunteers with therapy dogs at Cherokee Medical Center; Garry Fisher, a cancer survivor who volunteers with Cancer Navigators and the Harbin Clinic Cancer Center; and Wanda Hilyer, a volunteer at the Polk Medical Center gift shop.
National Day Of Prayer In Chattooga County Set For May 7
The National Day of Prayer in Chattooga County will be observed on Thursday, May 7, beginning at 6:30 PM.
Pastor Gary Howell of United Christian Fellowship says the gathering will be held at the Open Air Pavilion in downtown Summerville. In the event of rain, the observance will be moved to the Chattooga County Ag Center.
The National Day of Prayer is held each year on the first Thursday in May, inviting communities across the country to gather in prayer for the nation, its leaders, families, schools, churches, and local communities.
The public is invited to attend.