The Summerville Police Department is investigating two separate and unrelated fraud cases reported on Tuesday, March 25th. Two women independently came to the department to report suspicious activity impacting their finances.

The first case involved Trina Johnson, who reported unauthorized withdrawals from her Regions Bank account. According to Johnson, a $60 transaction occurred on March 24th and a $100 transaction on March 20th, both without her authorization. Johnson stated that she had already obtained a replacement card from Regions Bank, but it had also been compromised. Police advised Johnson to cancel the new card and obtain another replacement. The case has been forwarded to the Detective Division for further investigation.

Later the same day, Elizabeth Hartline reported receiving a letter from the Social Security Administration indicating her benefits check would be deposited into a new bank account. Hartline stated she had not changed her direct deposit information and contacted the police after receiving the suspicious letter. Police advised Ms. Hartline to contact the Social Security Administration directly. A report was filed concerning the incident.

The Summerville Police Department urges residents to remain vigilant about protecting their personal and financial information.

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) announced on Thursday that the state’s unemployment rate for February remained unchanged at 3.6%, consistent with a revised rate from January. This figure sits comfortably below the national unemployment rate, by five-tenths of a percent. “Georgia continues to drive business growth and opportunity, with 7,200 new jobs created in February alone,” said GDOL Interim Successor Louis DeBroux.

He attributed this success to the state’s resilient workforce and the collaborative efforts of Governor Brian Kemp, the Georgia General Assembly, and the business community in expanding access to quality employment opportunities. The state boasted a total of 4,970,500 jobs in February, reflecting an increase of 7,200 over the month and 28,500 over the year. Leading sectors for job growth in February included Health Care and Social Assistance (1,700), Administrative and Support Services (1,300), Durable Goods Manufacturing (1,000), Retail Trade (1,000), and Private Educational Services (1,000). However, some sectors experienced declines, notably Transportation and Warehousing (-2,600), Accommodation and Food Services (-500), and Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation (-100). Over the past year, Health Care and Social Assistance led the way in job creation (21,900), followed by Local Government (7,300), Federal Government (4,200), Finance and Insurance (3,700), and State Government (3,400). Meanwhile, Administrative and Support Services (-10,900), Accommodation and Food Services (-3,200), Durable Goods Manufacturing (-3,000), Retail Trade (-3,000), and Real Estate, Rental, and Leasing (-600) experienced job losses.

Georgia’s labor force decreased by 11,681 to 5,391,008 in February, but remains up 10,731 compared to the previous year. The number of employed individuals decreased by 10,772 to 5,198,860, and is down 3,940 over the past 12 months. The number of unemployed individuals decreased by 909 to 192,148, although it is up 14,671 compared to February of last year. In a positive sign, initial unemployment claims dropped significantly, falling by 14,030 to 20,464 in February.

This represents a decrease of 2,424 compared to the same period last year, suggesting a strengthening job market and reduced reliance on unemployment benefits.

Chattooga High School has announced that Corde’ Hill has been named the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Christian Athlete of the Year. The prestigious award recognizes student-athletes who exemplify Christian values both on and off the field. Coach Justin Gentry lauded Hill for his character and leadership. “Corde’ is one of the best young men I have ever had the pleasure of coaching,” Gentry said. “He is often very quiet, but when he does speak it is profound. In BOTH of his senior quotes for senior night, he spoke with wisdom to the future generations. I cannot express how thankful I am to have Corde’ be a part of our team the past two years.” The award is a testament to Hill’s dedication to his faith and his positive impact on the Chattooga High School community. Congratulations to Corde’ Hill on this well-deserved honor.

Fire crews in Floyd County are dealing with two suspected arson cases that burned hundreds of acres this week, leading to a joint response and an ongoing investigation.

The Rome-Floyd County Fire Department, along with Georgia Forestry units, responded on Tuesday to a wildfire near Highway 411. The fire’s patterns suggested it was intentionally set, as it featured multiple small fires rather than a continuous burn. Over a dozen firefighting units managed to control it without injuries or structural damage, but investigators are trying to find a suspect.

Just two days earlier, another fire in the Armuchee area destroyed about 200 acres, nearing 35 to 40 homes. A 22-year-old woman, Ainsley Sutton, admitted to starting this fire.  Family members said that the woman was upset with her father and that she struggles with mental health issues, according to Floyd County Police. Sunday’s fire in the Armuchee community caused some property damage, and firefighters monitored the area for flare-ups afterward.

Investigators are still seeking information about the Tuesday fire, but believe it too was arson.

A Gaylesville, Alabama man is facing felony theft charges after allegedly attempting to steal over $900 worth of merchandise from the Walmart located in West Rome. Roger Bryon Patty, 58, was booked into the Floyd County Jail on the theft by shoplifting charge. According to Rome Police Department reports and Floyd County Jail records, the incident occurred when Patty allegedly attempted to leave the store with 65 items in his shopping cart, bypassing all points of sale. The items, totaling over $919 in value, included a variety of goods such as towels, steaks, and pellet gun ammunition. Patty was apprehended shortly after allegedly pushing the cart past the checkout lanes.

The Chattooga County Republican Party has undergone a significant leadership change following elections held this past Saturday at the Chattooga County Senior Center. In light of upcoming spring break for local schools, the party has also announced the cancellation of its April 3rd meeting.

A large turnout of party members participated in the elections, resulting in a new slate of officers taking the helm. Meredith Rosson has been elected as the new Chair of the Chattooga County Republican Party. Supporting her will be Ron Williams and Jimmy Lenderman as Vice Chairs, Kevin Gilliland as Treasurer, and Herb Skelton as Secretary. The election signals a shift in direction for the local Republican Party. The previous leadership had implemented controversial measures, including the vetting of potential candidates for the 2024 election cycle. This practice drew criticism from many local Republicans, who believe the selection of candidates should be determined by voters, not party officials.

Sources within the Chattooga County Republican Party are optimistic that the new leadership will cultivate a more inclusive and transparent environment for all Republican voters in the county. The party also plans to move its monthly meetings from the Chattooga County Senior Center to the Chattooga County Ag Building.

With the new leadership in place, and a planned move to a larger venue, the Chattooga County Republican Party hopes to revitalize the organization and encourage greater participation from all its members. The April 3rd meeting, however, has been canceled due to spring break.

Future meeting dates and locations will be announced at a later time.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, March 27, 2025:

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a special weather statement today, warning residents of Northwest Georgia about high fire danger conditions prevailing this afternoon and evening. Low relative humidity and dry fuels are contributing to the elevated risk. According to the NWS, relative humidity is expected to drop to 25 percent or less for at least four hours today, Thursday.

Southeast winds will be blowing at 5 to 10 mph, exacerbating the dry conditions. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. “With dry fuels, high fire danger conditions can be expected,” the statement warned. The high fire danger is expected to persist through at least Friday. However, relief is in sight. Forecasters predict a shift in the weather pattern, bringing rain and thunderstorms to the region from Saturday night through Monday. While the moisture will alleviate the fire risk, it could introduce the possibility of severe weather on Sunday and Monday.

On Saturday, southern winds will increase humidity, reducing the fire risk to below 10%. However, strong gusts over 25 mph could still pose a fire danger in western Georgia. The expected thunderstorms are driven by two approaching shortwave troughs. The first trough will arrive Saturday night into Sunday, bringing rain. The second, stronger trough is expected to arrive Sunday night into Monday, potentially leading to severe weather. While the potential for strong to severe storms exists, the NWS emphasizes that confidence in significant severe weather is currently moderate. Decent conditions for updrafts and potential damaging winds are possible.

Residents are urged to stay informed as the forecast evolves. The NWS will provide updates as new data becomes available. The forecast will become clearer as we approach Friday and receive updated guidance.

Forecast:

Today will be sunny with a high near 75 and calm winds from the southeast around 5 mph. Tonight will be mostly clear with a low around 49 and calm winds.

On Friday, it will be mostly sunny with a high near 81 and calm winds becoming south in the afternoon that could gust up to 15 mph. Friday night will be mostly cloudy with a low around 58.

Saturday has a 20 percent chance of showers after 2 PM, mostly cloudy with a high near 79 and south winds. Saturday night will likely have showers after 2 AM with a low around 59.

Sunday will have likely showers and possible thunderstorms after 2 PM, mostly cloudy with a high near 78. Sunday night will have a chance of showers and thunderstorms, then likely showers after 2 AM with a low around 62.

Monday has likely showers and possibly thunderstorms before 2 PM, turning partly sunny with a high near 76. Monday night has a 30 percent chance of showers before 8 PM with a low around 46. Tuesday will be mostly sunny with a high near 75.

Chattooga County Department of Family and Children Services will be having the annual Pinwheel Planting at Dowdy Park today at 10 AM followed by the Chatooga Family Connection Meeting at 11 AM where there will be refreshments and more about Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month which begins in April.

The Chattooga County FFA is excited to announce its annual Spring Plant Sale, starting today and again tomorrow from 8 AM until 5 PM each day. The sale will continue in April from Tuesday, April 8th, through Friday, April 11th, also from 8 AM to 5 PM. A variety of affordable plants for spring gardens and patios will be available. Featured plants include: Geraniums ($4/cup), Potted Plants (4′ and 6′) ($3), Ferns (HB Boston $12, HB Macho $15), and Ground Covers. Additionally, there are Lantana, Vegetables and Herbs ($1 each for tomatoes, $3 each for herbs), Specialty Plants ($5 each for succulents), Hanging Baskets ($10-$15), and Unique Varieties. Flats will be sold for $20 (Mixed Flat $24) and $4-6-packs will be offered. The plant sale will be held at the greenhouse located behind Chattooga High School. To support the Chattooga County FFA and enhance your garden this spring, visit the sale.

The Trion Fire Department released its February 2025 call report, showing a busy month with 55 emergency responses. Most calls were for residential and commercial fire alarms, with 11 and 9 incidents respectively. Firefighters dealt with 7 illegal burn/woods fires, highlighting the need for awareness on safe burning practices. There were also 2 vehicle fires, 4 motor vehicle accidents, and 16 medical assist calls. The team handled 3 incidents with downed power lines or trees, 2 gas leaks, and one search and rescue. The Trion Fire Department urges residents to prioritize fire safety, follow burning regulations, and drive safely around hazardous conditions.

Photo Credit: WRGA Radio

Floyd County Police are investigating a wildfire that ravaged approximately 200 acres in the Rosedale area on Sunday as an act of arson, with charges pending, authorities confirmed. The blaze, which jumped Highway 156 in two locations, posed a significant threat to the Southern Woods subdivision, prompting evacuations. “We were able to get it contained,” said Rome-Floyd County Fire Chief Troy Brock, emphasizing the collaborative effort. “It wasn’t just due to us; it was probably one of the greatest collaborative efforts from many agencies and the Rosedale community that I have witnessed during my career with the Rome-Floyd County Fire Department.”

The scale of the Rosedale fire stretched the resources of the Rome-Floyd County Fire Department thin, leaving only two units to cover the vast 514-square-mile county, according to Deputy Chief Brad Roberson. Thankfully, reserve units were quickly activated, and assistance poured in from multiple agencies, including: Summerville Fire Department, Gore Fire Department, Polk County Fire Department, Gordon County Fire Department, Cedartown Fire Department, Chattoogaville Fire Department, Atrium EMS, AdventHealth EMS, Georgia Department of Public Health, Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, Floyd County Police, Floyd County Emergency Management, Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Emergency Management, Floyd Springs Baptist Church, and Armuchee Baptist Church.

“We want to send out a special thank you to the people of our community, especially the Armuchee community,” Roberson said, expressing gratitude for the community’s support. “They were working hard to protect their property, but also stepping up to protect their neighbor’s property, and assist us when they could. They were pulling hose and had our backs the whole way. So, we want to show our appreciation.”

While Sunday’s wildfire is believed to be arson, officials urge residents to exercise extreme caution when burning vegetation and debris, as even controlled burns can quickly become dangerous. “There are days this time of year when you want to burn,” Brock said. “This time of year, burning is needed, but you want to first look at the weather forecast. There are good days to burn and not good days to burn, mainly due to high winds.

A 41-year-old Summerville man was arrested last week on multiple charges after a incident in which he was accused of assaulting a woman. Gregory Lopaz Hayes was arrested following a domestic dispute at 691 Northwest Congress, according to the Summerville Police Department.

Officers were initially dispatched to the residence in response to a report of a physical altercation in progress. While en route, police learned that the alleged aggressor, identified as Gregory Lopaz Hayes, was leaving the scene in a silver four-door sedan. The vehicle was observed pulling into the parking lot of Bill’s Heating and Cooling before heading outbound on Northwest Congress. Police located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop after it passed the victim’s residence, driven by a woman identified as Jenny Hayes, seated in the passenger seat, Hayes was observed to have blood on his left hand.

The victim reported that Hayes, allegedly intoxicated, accused her of stealing his wallet and physically assaulted her. According to the police report, when officers spoke with the victim, she stated that Hayes “grabbed me, choked me, punched me in the back of the head, I don’t know how many times, and kicked me 3 or 4 times.” Officers observed a cut on the bridge of the victim’s nose, fresh red marks on her neck, and a large knot on the back of her head. She was provided with information for the Family Crisis Center and assessed by EMS on the scene. The victim stated she wished to press charges fully.

Hayes was subsequently arrested for simple battery FVA (Family Violence Act). According to the report, Hayes resisted arrest, refusing to exit the vehicle and place his hands behind his back. He allegedly continued to resist officers, refusing to walk to the police car and ultimately having to be physically placed inside the vehicle with the assistance of a Chattooga County Deputy. This led to an additional charge of obstructing officers.

The police report states that Hayes refused to cooperate until a supervisor arrived on the scene, and threatened to be pepper sprayed by authorities if he did not put his knees inside the vehicle. Hayes was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident after being placed in the patrol vehicle. .

NGEMC has partnered with Arbor Day Foundation to offer members a chance to plant a tree that can reduce radiant heat from the sun and save energy this summer.

NGEMC is giving away up to 200 trees to members as a part of the Energy Saving Tree Program on Wednesday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Members must register to reserve one tree through Arborday.org. Reservations are available now and will be accepted on a first come, first served basis.

One of NGEMC’s long-standing goals has been to help members plant the right tree in the right place. While it is never a good idea to plant under lines or around electric equipment, the Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy Saving Tree program helps show home and business owners how strategically placed trees can help reduce their annual energy bills.

With their online tool, homeowners can use satellite imaging to plot the outline of their home and the best spot to plant in order to save money.

Members who register will be able to select a Post Oak, October Glory Maple, Ohio Buckeye, Witch-hazel, or Highbush Blueberry. All trees will come in a three-gallon pot or root bundle and should be able to fit in most standard vehicles.

This Energy Saving Tree giveaway is limited to NGEMC members. Members will be asked to show their energy bill or verify their identity when picking up the trees.

At the time of reservation, members will select a pick-up location from NGEMC’s Calhoun, Dalton, or Fort Oglethorpe offices. Members who miss the pick-up window on April 30 will forfeit the reserved trees. Trees are offered at no cost to the member.

For more questions about energy saving trees, please visit Arborday.org.

A multi-agency investigation led to the arrest of Nicholas Antiono Cheaton, 41, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Friday, March 21, 2025, in connection with the murder of William Oliver Jones, 39, of Chickamauga, Georgia. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Investigative Office in Calhoun, along with the Walker County Sheriff’s Office, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the United States Federal Probation Office, and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, collaborated to bring Cheaton into custody. He is charged with Murder in relation to Jones’ death. Jones was discovered deceased on Friday, March 14, 2025, at his residence located in the 8000 block of West Highway 136 in Chickamauga, GA. Cheaton is currently being held at the Hamilton County Jail and Detention Center in Chattanooga, awaiting extradition to Georgia. An autopsy was performed on Jones’ body by the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office; however, the results are still pending. The investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to contact the Walker County Sheriff’s Office at 706-638-1909. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or through the See Something, Send Something mobile app. Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be handed over to the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review and potential prosecution.

The City of Summerville is now accepting sealed proposals for its 2025 contract for mowing and grounds keeping services at the Summerville Cemetery. The request for bid (RFB-2025-103-CEMETERY) covers the period from May 1, 2025, through October 31, 2025. Sealed bids must be submitted to the City of Summerville at 120 Georgia Ave., Summerville, Georgia 30747 no later than 2:00 p.m. on April 10, 2025. To ensure proper identification, bidders must clearly mark the outside of the envelope with “RFB-2025-103-CEMETERY.” A complete bid packet, including detailed specifications and requirements, is available for download at summervillega.org. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the website for more information.

AdventHealth Redmond is hosting the AngioScreen bus on Monday, March 31 from 8 am to 3 pm, located in front of the main entrance. AngioScreen is a noninvasive, 10-minute vascular screening that checks your risk for heart disease and stroke. This painless assessment provides immediate results and includes carotid artery screening, heart rhythm EKG, ankle brachial indices, and abdominal aortic aneurysm screening. If you are 55 or older or have risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of cardiovascular issues, you should consider scheduling an appointment. The screening costs $85 per person and is HSA eligible. To register for this screening, click HERE

High pressure will move into the Southeast today and significantly influence the weather on Thursday. The air will be dry, with surface dewpoints in the 30s, and some areas in northeast Georgia may have dewpoints in the 20s. This dry air, combined with mixed air layers and afternoon temperatures in the 70s (4 to 8 degrees above normal), will create very low humidity levels today and Thursday. Northwest winds may gust between 20 and 30 mph today, leading to a Fire Danger Statement for Northwest Georgia due to low humidity and gusts up to 24 mph. A similar warning is expected for Thursday but with lighter winds. No other weather threats are anticipated in north and central Georgia through Thursday as the area will remain dry. Temperatures will generally be in the 70s.  Lows tonight will be in the upper 40’s.  Looking ahead, fire danger will likely continue through Friday with warm, dry conditions, but rain chances will increase from the weekend into early next week, raising the potential for severe weather. Showers and thunderstorms are possible, especially Sunday into Monday, with certain areas under a 15% risk for severe weather.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, March 26, 2025:

A routine traffic stop in Summerville led to the arrest of Belinda McGill of Trion, after police discovered marijuana and THC-infused gummies in her vehicle. According to the Summerville Police Department report, the incident occurred at approximately 10:21 PM on March 18th at the intersection of Rome Boulevard and Highway 114.

An officer observed a black vehicle traveling south, failing to stop at a red light. The officer initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of Rome Boulevard and Espy Street, identifying the driver as Belinda McGill. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer detected the strong odor of fresh marijuana. After confirming with McGill that she was stopped for the red light violation, the officer asked her to step out of the vehicle. When questioned about the presence of contraband, McGill admitted to having marijuana in the center console. A search of the vehicle, conducted with McGill’s consent, yielded two clear plastic baggies containing a green leafy substance identified as marijuana. Further search of the center console revealed five unopened packages of THC gummies. Three packages were labeled “Rock It” containing 1000mg of THC per serving, while the remaining two were “Flying Horse” brand, flavored as Cotton Candy and Birthday Cake, each containing 1200mg of THC.

McGill was subsequently arrested and transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident. Her vehicle was released to a friend. McGill faces charges of Possession of a Schedule 1 controlled substance (THC Gummies), Possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, and Failure to Stop at a Red Light.