Arrest Report - Tuesday - March 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Another Hard Freeze Tonight - Warm Up on the Way
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for another hard freeze tonight into Wednesday morning, as temperatures remain well below normal for mid-March.
Forecasters say dry but chilly conditions will persist through Wednesday, with brisk northwest winds gusting up to 25 mph this afternoon. Despite sunny skies, highs today will struggle to reach the upper 40s locally, with some areas staying even cooler.
Overnight, temperatures will drop sharply into the 20s and low 30s, prompting a widespread Freeze Warning across the region. Sensitive plants, outdoor pets, and exposed pipes could be at risk if precautions are not taken.
Wednesday will mark the beginning of a gradual warming trend, though temperatures will still run 10 to 15 degrees below average, with highs only reaching the 50s. Cloud cover will increase, but no rainfall is expected due to very dry air in place.
A much more noticeable warmup arrives late in the week. Highs are expected to climb into the 60s Thursday, 70s by Friday, and surge into the 80s over the weekend. Morning lows will also rebound into the 40s and 50s, signaling a return to more typical spring conditions.
Dry weather is expected to continue through at least Sunday, with little to no chance of rain across Northwest Georgia.
Gas Prices Continue to Rise in Georgia
Spring Break travel demand, combined with rising crude oil prices, is continuing to send gas prices higher across Georgia.
AAA says the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Georgia now stands at $3.51, up 29 cents from a week ago, 79 cents from a month ago, and 61 cents higher than this time last year.
For drivers filling up a standard 15-gallon tank, that brings the average cost to about $52.65.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says increased holiday travel is helping fuel the rise at the pump.
“As more drivers take to the roads for Spring Break, gas prices are increasing, driven in large part by crude oil costs that have climbed past $100 a barrel,” Waiters said. “While prices remain comparable to last spring, coordinated releases from U.S. and international oil reserves are expected to help slow further increases.”
Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular gas has climbed nearly 24 cents in the past week to $3.69, matching prices seen around the same time last spring.
AAA says crude oil remains the biggest factor behind higher pump prices. In response, the United States is releasing 172 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve over the next four months, part of a broader International Energy Agency plan to release 400 million barrels in what is being described as the largest emergency release of oil reserves in history.
For electric vehicle drivers, the national average cost of electricity at a public charging station also increased slightly, rising 2 cents this past week to 41 cents per kilowatt hour.
In Georgia, Atlanta’s average gas price is $3.55.
Among metro areas across the state, the most expensive markets are Athens at $3.55, Gainesville at $3.54, and Augusta-Aiken at $3.50.
The least expensive metro markets are Rome at $3.45, Columbus at $3.42, and Warner Robins at $3.40.
Locally, gas was averaging $3.38 per gallon in Chattooga County – noticeably lower than surrounding counties. Floyd County gas was averaging $3.47 per gallon; Walker County $3.48; Gordon County was $3.57 per gallon.
AAA says motorists should continue to expect day-to-day price fluctuations as Spring Break travel continues and oil prices remain elevated.
More Than $40,000 Raised To Give Back To Jude Baker
More than $40,000 had been raised as of Monday to help send Jude Baker and his family on a special trip following the young Chattooga County boy’s courageous battle with cancer.
The fundraiser was organized by Kevin Godfrey, owner of Godfrey’s Tree Service, after Leslie Tripp Watwood, owner of Burger Shack, approached him about bringing the community together for Jude.
Jude was diagnosed in February of 2024, at just 12 years old, with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. After months of difficult treatments, Jude eventually reached a major milestone by ringing the bell to mark the end of his treatment.
But even while going through his own battle, Jude was thinking about others.
According to organizers, Jude used his Make-A-Wish Georgia opportunity not for a trip or gift for himself, but instead to help people experiencing homelessness in the community. His wish helped provide backpacks, supplies, sleeping bags, and meals for more than 300 people.
Now that Jude is in remission, organizers say the community is stepping up to give back to him and his family by helping provide a trip where they can enjoy time together and make lasting memories away from hospitals, treatments, and stress.
Organizers say Jude’s compassion and selflessness have deeply touched the community, and donations continue to come in as supporters rally around the Baker family.
Georgia Declared Free Of Bird Flu, But Officials Urge Continued Vigilance
The Georgia Department of Agriculture says the state has officially been declared free of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, also known as bird flu, though officials stress that poultry growers and flock owners still need to stay on guard. Georgia regained its HPAI-free status as of March 13, allowing the state to resume exports and international trade of poultry products.
The designation is especially important for places like Chattooga County, where poultry is a major part of the farm economy. According to the latest USDA Census of Agriculture, Chattooga County recorded about $89.5 million in poultry and egg sales, out of roughly $92 million in livestock, poultry, and related product sales overall, meaning poultry accounts for nearly all of the county’s farm gate value.
State officials said bird flu was detected earlier this year in one commercial poultry operation in Hart County and two in Walker County. Those cases were part of seven detections in commercial operations and 11 overall cases in Georgia since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said the state’s HPAI-free status is welcome news, but not an all-clear. State officials say the virus remains a significant threat to Georgia’s poultry industry and that prevention efforts will continue.
Poultry growers and backyard flock owners are being urged to maintain strong biosecurity measures, including limiting contact between poultry and wild birds and watching closely for symptoms of illness. Officials say signs of bird flu can include sudden death, loss of energy or appetite, decreased egg production, coughing, sneezing, swelling or discoloration of the head or comb, lack of coordination, and diarrhea.
Officials say anyone who notices those warning signs in a flock should contact the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Four Treated For Smoke Inhalation After Sunday Night House Fire On Highway 27
A residential structure fire late Sunday night sent four people to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation and claimed the lives of three family pets.
According to fire officials, the Gore Fire Department, along with the Subligna and Hays Fire Departments, was dispatched at 10:54 p.m. Sunday to a house fire at 2305 Highway 27.
When firefighters arrived, the home was reported to be about 40 percent involved, with heavy fire coming from the roof and front entrance. All occupants had made it out of the home, but several pets were still believed to be inside.
During aggressive firefighting efforts and an initial search, firefighters found three pets inside the structure. Two dogs were removed and CPR was performed for several minutes. A third pet was found later during salvage and overhaul operations and was also removed from the home.
Officials said four occupants were transported by Floyd EMS for smoke inhalation and were reported to be in stable condition.
Sadly, officials said none of the three pets survived.
The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature, beginning at the electric water heater.
Chattooga County Seeking Bids For Pole Barns And Sheriff’s Office Roof Project
Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen is seeking sealed bids for two separate construction projects, including new pole barn buildings for the county’s Public Works Department and a roof replacement at the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
The county is accepting bids for two pole barn buildings to be constructed at the Chattooga County Public Works Department, located at 116 Stockade Road in Summerville.
According to the bid request, Building #1 will be a 24-by-40-foot shed with enclosed galvanized metal sides, featuring metal trusses, a clear span design, 6×6 posts, 2×4 lathe, and galvanized metal materials.
Building #2 will be a 40-by-60-foot pole barn with 8×8 posts, 2×12 headers, 2×4 lathe, enclosed gable ends, and trusses spaced at 4 feet. Bids must include the total cost for each building, detailed material specifications, and estimated start and completion dates. The project must begin within 30 days of award and be completed in a timely manner.
In a separate request, the county is also seeking bids for replacement of the roof at the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Department, located at 533 Underwood Dairy Road in Trion.
The project includes removal of the existing EPDM membrane roofing, installation of a .060 TPO thermoplastic polyolefin roofing system, replacement of flashing, trim, and sealants, and installation or replacement of collector boxes and downspouts. The work will also involve removing abandoned roof penetrations and temporarily removing lightning protection systems for reinstallation.
Bids for both projects must include the total project cost, proof of licensing and insurance, estimated timeline, and references for similar commercial projects.
All sealed bids must be delivered to the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville no later than 5 p.m. on March 19. Bids will be opened on March 20.
County officials note the commissioner reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.
Chattooga BOE Seeking Quotes For High School Lawn Care Service
The Chattooga County Board of Education is seeking quotes from service providers for lawn care services at Chattooga County High School.
According to the request for quotes, the service will cover the upcoming season from April through October. Providers are asked to submit detailed quotes that include weekly mowing, weed eating, and a cleanup schedule.
All submissions must be on company letterhead and include proof of liability insurance. The Board of Education also prefers three commercial and/or governmental references from companies submitting bids.
A site meeting for interested providers was scheduled for March 13 at 10 a.m. at the school, located at 989 Highway 114 in Summerville.
Completed quotes must be submitted in a sealed envelope to the Chattooga County Board of Education office at 33 Middle School Road in Summerville. The deadline for submissions is March 18, 2026 at 11 a.m.
School officials say submitted quotes will be reviewed and presented to the Board of Education for consideration. The board reserves the right to reject any or all quotes and accept the proposal that best serves the interests of the school system.
For additional information, contact Jason Whitfield at 706-859-3051.
Lyerly Planning Easter Egg Hunt At Angus McLeod Park
The Town of Lyerly is inviting families to hop on over for its annual Easter celebration later this month at Angus McLeod Park.
The Lyerly Easter Egg Hunt will take place Saturday, March 28, at Angus McLeod Park, located at 5801 Highway 114 in Lyerly. The event is open to children ages 12 and under, with the egg hunt beginning promptly at noon.
Young participants will have the chance to search for colorful eggs hidden throughout the park. Organizers say special golden eggs will also be hidden in each age group, offering additional prize opportunities.
In addition to the hunt, children will have the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny and take photos during the event.
Following the egg hunt, families are invited to stay and enjoy a free hot dog picnic.
Town officials encourage families to arrive early to make sure children are ready when the hunt begins.
For more information, residents can contact the Town of Lyerly at 706-895-2011.
Voters Return to the Polls for Special Election Runoff - April 7
Voters in the 53rd Georgia State Senate District and the 14th U.S. Congressional District will return to the polls for a runoff election that will be held on April 7th.
Voters in Chattooga County will be choosing between former Trion Mayor Lanny Thomas, a Republican, and Democrat Jack Zibluck of Lookout Mountain, Georgia, to fill the vacated 53rd Senate District office. The seat is vacant due to former State Senator Colton Moore resigning to run for U.S. Congress. Also, voters will be choosing between Republican Clay Fuller, former Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney, and retired Brigadier General Shawn Harris, a Democrat from Polk County, to fill the seat of Marjorie Taylor Greene, who resigned from Congress.
Advance Voting in Chattooga County is March 30 – April 2, 2026. All advance voting in Chattooga County will take place at the Chattooga County Registrars Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. Early voting hours are from 8:30 AM – 5 PM.
On Election Day, April 7, there will be no Voting in the Registrars Office. Instead, voters will need to vote at their assigned polling location (Gore Fire Hall, Lyerly Community Center, former Menlo City Hall, Chattooga County Civic Center, or Trion Recreation Department) between the hours of 7 AM and 7 – PM.
Chattooga County Election officials point out that the registration deadline to vote in the upcoming runoff election was March 9, 2026. You did not have to vote in the March 10, 2026 Special Election in order to vote in the upcoming runoff.
Government issued photo ID is required.
Arrest Report - Monday - March 16, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, March 16, 2026:
Strong Storms, Tornado Threat Moving Through Chattooga County; Cold Blast to Follow
Strong to severe thunderstorms were moving through Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia early Monday morning, bringing the threat of damaging winds and a few brief tornadoes as a powerful squall line pushes across the region.
Forecasters say the greatest threats including strong wind gusts and quick spin-up tornadoes embedded within the line of storms. The severe weather threat is expected to move from northwest to southeast through the morning, ending around midday as a cold front clears the area.
Behind the storms, a dramatic change in the weather is expected as much colder air rapidly moves into the region.
Lingering moisture combined with falling temperatures could lead to scattered snow showers or flurries this morning into the afternoon, particularly in areas north of the Interstate 85 corridor. However, significant accumulations are not expected, and any snow that does fall would likely melt quickly due to warm ground temperatures.
The bigger concern following the storms will be dangerously cold overnight temperatures.
A Freeze Warning has been issued for much of North Georgia, including Chattooga County, as temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s Monday night and again Tuesday night. Wind chills early Tuesday morning could feel like the upper teens to low 20s.
Tuesday will remain much colder than normal, with breezy northwest winds and afternoon highs only reaching the 40s in North Georgia.
The cold air will gradually moderate later in the week, with temperatures expected to return to the 60s by Thursday, the 70s by Friday, and possibly the 80s over the weekend as a warming trend sets in across the Southeast.
Officials warn that the freeze could damage early spring vegetation and crops that have already begun growing due to recent warm temperatures.
Former Commissioner Responds to Audit Concerns as County Works to Reconcile Finances
Former Chattooga County Commissioner Blake Elsberry is responding to recent online discussions about findings from the ongoing 2024 audit of Chattooga County finances, offering context about accounting discrepancies identified during that time.
In a statement circulating on social media, Elsberry said some of the audit findings related to recordkeeping and ledger entries during 2024 may be accurate, but emphasized that the issues involve administrative and bookkeeping documentation, not allegations of missing funds or personal misuse of county money.
Elsberry said the county office faced extraordinary circumstances during that period, including the illness and death of the county’s longtime clerk, who had served the office for more than 30 years.
According to Elsberry, the clerk was battling terminal cancer while continuing to work part-time and assist in training staff in financial processes she had largely managed on her own for decades. She passed away in June 2024, leaving the office in the middle of a transition while staff attempted to learn and maintain the systems she had overseen.
Elsberry said employees were working to learn long-established procedures while also keeping county operations running, and that the county’s auditor was aware of the challenges at the time.
“Our county auditor… was aware of these challenges and was onsite frequently, advising staff as we worked to keep county operations moving,” Elsberry said in the statement.
He also said the county sought help from the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) and attempted to bring in outside assistance to help reconcile accounts and ensure records were properly documented.
Elsberry said his statement was not intended to shift blame but to explain the circumstances surrounding that period.
“Importantly, these issues reflect one year during an extraordinarily difficult transition, not a pattern of financial mismanagement,” Elsberry said. He noted that the county had successfully completed audits in previous years without similar findings.
Meanwhile, current Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen addressed the issue during his 2026 State of the County report, confirming that the 2024 audit uncovered several financial discrepancies.
According to Allen, auditors determined that accounting records from late 2023 through 2024 were incomplete or inaccurate, leading to discrepancies totaling more than $3 million between reported balances and general ledger records.
Allen also said auditors identified additional financial concerns, including deposits that were not recorded, checks that had not been deposited, and missing documentation for certain payments and contracts.
To address the issues, Allen said the county has hired an outside accounting consultant to help reconcile accounts and correct ledger entries.
The county is also transitioning its financial operations to the Harris accounting software system, which Allen said will help improve accuracy, reporting, and transparency going forward.
Allen said the 2024 audit is expected to be completed by April 10.
The audit findings and responses from both the former and current commissioners have drawn attention locally as county officials work to reconcile records and strengthen financial processes moving forward.
Thunderbirds to headline Wings Over North Georgia air show in Rome
One of Georgia’s biggest spring events is just weeks away as the Wings Over North Georgia Air Show returns to Rome’s Russell Regional Airport on April 3-4, 2026, with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds set to headline the show.
Organizers say this year’s event will bring a full weekend of high-energy aerial performances, military aircraft, civilian acts, static displays, and family entertainment to Northwest Georgia.
The Thunderbirds, the official air demonstration squadron of the United States Air Force, are based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada and have been performing precision aerial demonstrations since 1953. The elite team is known for its tight formations, solo maneuvers, and fast-paced air show routines across the country and around the world.
According to organizers, this year’s Wings Over North Georgia lineup will also feature F-15 Eagles, the L-39 Outlaws, GSP SWAT, along with a wide range of warbird and civilian performers and teams. Visitors will also be able to explore a full lineup of static display aircraft and exhibitors at the airport.
The weekend opens on Friday, April 3, with a show beginning at 3:30 p.m. Organizers say Friday’s program will feature the Thunderbirds along with an expanded day, twilight, and night show, ending with a drone and fireworks finale.
The action continues on Saturday, April 4, when performances begin at noon with a full lineup of air show acts and attractions.
“We’re proud to have secured the Thunderbirds and have our sights set on a bigger, better spring event,” said John Cowman, President of JLC AirShow Management.
Cowman said the event’s Friday and Saturday schedule was designed in part to avoid conflicts with Easter Sunday while still delivering a full air show weekend for families.
Organizers say all tickets and parking must be purchased online in advance, and no tickets will be sold at the gate.
More information about performers, sponsorships, private chalets, exhibitors, and vendors is available through the air show’s website and Facebook page.
For aviation fans across Chattooga County, Northwest Georgia, and the surrounding region, the return of the Thunderbirds is expected to make this one of the top entertainment events of the spring season.
Bull Breeding Soundness Exams Scheduled in Chattooga County
Cattle producers in Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia will have an opportunity to have herd bulls evaluated during upcoming Bull Breeding Soundness Exams scheduled for Saturday, March 21 at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center.
The exams, which help determine whether bulls are physically capable of successfully breeding cows, will be conducted by Dr. Hopkins of the Summerville Veterinary Clinic. Organizers say the evaluations are an important step for producers preparing for the upcoming breeding season.
The exams will be $60 per bull and will be offered by appointment only. Reservations will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Agricultural Center located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville.
Producers are asked to RSVP by March 19 to secure a time slot. Officials say the program is intended specifically for herd bulls, noting that sale bulls will not be accepted.
The event is being organized through the University of Georgia Extension – Chattooga County, with support from local agricultural partners including Chattooga Young Farmers.
Those interested in scheduling an appointment can contact the Chattooga County Extension Office at 706-857-0744.
Extension officials say breeding soundness exams can help cattle producers avoid potential reproductive issues by identifying problems early and ensuring bulls are healthy and capable of breeding before the season begins.
Golf Tournament Planned to Benefit Chattooga Middle School Cheerleaders
A fundraising golf tournament has been scheduled for April 25, 2026, at Little Mole Country Club, with proceeds going to support the Chattooga Middle School Cheerleaders.
The tournament will feature a 4-man best ball format with a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together for a day of golf, food, and friendly competition while helping support the school’s cheer program.
The team entry fee is $300, and mulligans will be available for $5 each. Participants will also receive lunch, which will be provided during the event.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top teams. The first-place team will receive $500, second place will receive $300, and third place will receive $100.
Organizers say the fundraiser will help cover expenses for the Chattooga Middle School cheerleading program, including uniforms, travel, and other team needs throughout the year.
Those interested in registering or learning more about the tournament can contact Little Mole Country Club at (256) 634-2104, Bucky Chisolm at (706) 978-9779, or Laci Lea at llea@chattooga.k12.ga.us.
Community members and local businesses are encouraged to participate and help support the Chattooga Middle School cheerleaders through the upcoming event.
Summerville Middle School Students Visit Oakview Residents for Morning of Games, Stories and Service
A group of Summerville Middle School boys spent part of their morning last week at Oakview Health and Rehabilitation, visiting with residents during the facility’s monthly men’s social and creating meaningful connections through games, conversation, and shared activities.
During the visit, students and residents enjoyed playing checkers, Connect Four, and tic-tac-toe, while also taking time to talk and get to know one another. The outing gave students a chance to step outside the classroom and connect with older members of the community in a hands-on, personal way.
One highlight of the visit came from eighth grader Grady Massey, who brought along several of his train photographs to share with residents. Massey talked with a group of men about his favorite kinds of trains and his trips to the Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, sparking conversation and shared interest.
Students also joined residents in a group exercise class, with each student taking turns helping lead some of the movements.
“Mr. Stone and I bonded over hunting stories,” said eighth grader Kamden Rader. “I really liked talking to him and we had a lot in common.”
Other students also found common ground with the Oakview residents. Seventh graders Max McCutchins and Emory Brown played checkers with a resident who, they said, defeated them in every round. Eighth graders Dee Allen and Cadence Daniel enjoyed discussing sports with longtime Chattooga Indian fan Preacher Ken Johnson. Eighth grader Kane Jennings helped Activities Coordinator Ally Croy lead several exercises for the group.
SMS School Counselor Mary Beth Housch, who helped lead the project, said the students fully embraced the experience.
“Our students really embraced this opportunity to interact with the Oakview residents,” Housch said. “I’m so proud of their willingness to engage the residents in conversation, and take part in games and activities. Each student was all smiles when we got back to school and they were eager to share their experiences with teachers and friends. We will spend time with the female residents next week and participate in fingernail painting. We are looking forward to this trip.”
The outing was planned as part of an initiative inspired by 2026 Georgia Teacher of the Year Rachel Kinsaul. Her platform encourages schools and districts across Georgia to involve students in meaningful service learning centered on community connection, real-world learning, and civic responsibility.
School leaders say more activities involving SMS students and a broader Day of Service are planned later this month.
The Oakview visit gave students an opportunity not only to serve, but also to listen, learn, and build relationships across generations — something educators say can leave a lasting impact on both students and residents.
School Board Appreciation Week Recognizes Leadership and Service in Chattooga County
Chattooga County Schools are joining districts across the state in observing School Board Appreciation Week, held March 9–13, 2026, a time set aside to recognize the leadership, service, and commitment of local school board members.
In Chattooga County, the Board of Education includes Lori Brady, Chad Coe, Derrick Eberhart, Bonnie Fletcher, and Tiffany Lawrence. These elected officials serve the community by helping guide the direction of the county’s public school system and making decisions that affect students, teachers, and families across the district.
School board members play a critical role in setting policies, approving budgets, establishing goals for the school system, and ensuring schools have the resources needed to support student success. They work closely with the school superintendent and district leadership to make decisions about curriculum, facilities, transportation, staffing, and long-term planning.
Although many of their responsibilities take place during meetings and planning sessions that are not always visible to the public, school board members dedicate many hours to studying education issues, attending training, reviewing policies, and listening to community concerns.
School boards also serve as a vital connection between the community and the school system, helping ensure that local values and priorities are reflected in decisions that impact education.
Across Georgia, more than 700 elected school board members serve communities large and small, helping shape the future of public education for thousands of students. School Board Appreciation Week is intended to recognize the important role these leaders play and to thank them for their service.
Local school leaders say the week is an opportunity for the community to show appreciation for the board members who work to support students, teachers, and the continued success of Chattooga County Schools
CHS Class of 1976 Plans 50th Reunion in Summerville
Members of the Chattooga High School Class of 1976 are preparing to celebrate a major milestone as plans move forward for their 50th class reunion, scheduled for Saturday, April 25 in Summerville.
The reunion will be held at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center, located at 33 Middle School Road. Organizers say the event will begin with a meet and greet at 4:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m.
The cost to attend is $25 per person, which includes a catered barbecue meal, along with a program and entertainment provided by Joseph Crowe, Larry Allen, and Danny Mack.
Class members are asked to mail or deliver cash or a check payable to Cheryl, along with a completed registration form, to Cheryl Flood Black, 136 Oil Mill Road, Summerville, GA 30747.
Organizers note that no refunds will be issued, and the registration deadline is March 15.
The reunion will give classmates an opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate five decades since graduating from Chattooga High School.
Champions for Children Luncheon scheduled March 19 in Summerville
The Chattooga Boys & Girls Club will host its annual Champions for Children Luncheon on Thursday, March 19, bringing the community together to support youth programs and hear an inspiring message about spreading positivity and inclusion.
The event will take place at the Chattooga Boys & Girls Club of Georgia in Summerville, with the luncheon beginning at noon.
This year’s featured guest will be Tanner Smith, an autism advocate known for his appearance on the Netflix series “Love on the Spectrum U.S.” in seasons two and three. Smith has gained a large following on social media where he promotes his mission of “spreading joy all around the world.”
Through his public appearances and online platforms, Smith encourages kindness, advocates for individuals on the autism spectrum, and helps raise awareness about employment opportunities for people with special needs.
According to organizers, Smith hopes to be an example of what is possible regardless of diagnosis and to encourage people to share joy and kindness with others.
Smith’s mother, Nicci Smith, is also an advocate for those on the autism spectrum. She is passionate about raising awareness and supporting special needs employment opportunities.
Organizers say the luncheon is part of the Champions for Children initiative, which supports programs and services for local youth through the Chattooga Boys & Girls Club.
Those interested in attending or learning more about the event can contact Deb Stowe at 706-506-6918 or Sylvia Lee Keziah at 706-346-0077.