Chattoogaville Family Loses Home And Vehicles In Devastating Fire
A Chattooga County family caring for 11 foster children has lost their home, vehicles and personal belongings in a devastating fire, prompting an urgent appeal for community assistance.
The fire occurred at 28 Rowlls Road in the Chattoogaville community. According to information provided to WZQZ News by the Chattoogaville Fire Department, the department was paged at approximately 11:58. Firefighters from Chattoogaville, Holland, Lyerly and Hays responded to the blaze.
The residence was reported to be a total loss.
The home was occupied by Jimbo and LaRita Burke, who are foster parents caring for 11 children. Information from the fire department indicated that approximately 15 people, including four adults, may have been living in the residence.
Everyone reportedly escaped safely.
The family lost their home, vehicles and belongings, leaving them in immediate need of clothing, shoes, diapers, school supplies and other necessities.
With the children preparing to return to school next week, family members and friends are organizing donations to help meet their immediate needs.
Items Needed Include:
- Diapers in sizes 3T, 4T and 5T
- Overnight maxi pads
- New underwear for children and adults
- Clothing and shoes for all family members
- School clothing and supplies
Girls’ clothing is needed in sizes 2T, 3T, 5T and 10/12, while boys’ clothing is needed in sizes 4T, 14 and 16.
Men’s pants are needed in sizes 32/34 and 34/34. Women’s clothing needs include medium shirts, size 8 jeans and clothing in sizes 2X and 3X. Shoes are needed for everyone.
Aimee Larsen at The Well in Summerville has offered the building as a collection location for donations. The facility is located in the former Son Rise Church building behind the Chattooga County Courthouse.
Anyone wishing to donate clothing, shoes, basic necessities or financial assistance can contact April at 706-331-1963 to arrange a donation.
Relatives say LaRita Burke is understandably overwhelmed by the loss and are asking the community to help support the family during this difficult time.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Arrest Report - Sunday - October 18, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, October 18, 2026:
High Fire Danger Today As Dry Weather And Cool Fall Temperatures Continue Across Chattooga County
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect another beautiful fall day this Sunday, October 18, with abundant sunshine, cool temperatures and dry conditions. However, the National Weather Service is warning that low humidity, gusty winds and increasingly dry vegetation will create an elevated risk of wildfires this afternoon and evening.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has issued a Special Weather Statement concerning high fire danger conditions. Forecasters say relative humidity levels could fall to 30 percent or lower for at least four hours during the afternoon and evening. Northeasterly winds of 10 to 15 miles per hour, with occasional gusts reaching 20 to 25 miles per hour, will add to concerns about the potential for fires to spread quickly.
The combination of low humidity, dry leaves, grass and other vegetation means that even a small outdoor fire could become difficult to control.
Residents of Chattooga County, particularly those living in rural and wooded areas, are encouraged to avoid unnecessary outdoor burning. Anyone considering burning brush, leaves or other materials should first check with local fire authorities and the Georgia Forestry Commission concerning current burning regulations and restrictions.
Sunny And Cool Across Chattooga County Today
Sunday’s weather will otherwise be pleasant, with mostly clear skies and comfortable afternoon temperatures.
In Summerville, Trion, Menlo and Lyerly, temperatures are expected to reach around 68 degrees this afternoon. East winds will generally remain near 5 miles per hour, although stronger winds are possible in some areas, particularly along higher elevations and exposed ridgelines.
The dry air will make for comfortable conditions during the afternoon, but temperatures will fall quickly after sunset.
Tonight, skies will remain clear, with temperatures dropping to around 39 degrees across much of Chattooga County. Some sheltered valleys could experience slightly colder temperatures.
The National Weather Service says the combination of clear skies, dry air and light nighttime winds will allow temperatures to fall efficiently after sunset.
In the higher elevations of Northwest Georgia, including portions of Lookout Mountain, temperatures could approach the middle 30s. Frost may develop in some of the colder mountain locations, particularly farther northeast in Georgia.
Another Sunny Day Expected Monday
The new workweek will begin with more sunshine and seasonably cool temperatures.
Monday’s forecast calls for sunny skies and a high near 69 degrees. Winds will be calm during the morning before becoming northerly around 5 miles per hour during the afternoon.
Monday night will be clear, with temperatures falling to around 43 degrees.
High pressure will remain firmly established across the region, keeping clouds and precipitation to a minimum.
Temperatures Begin Warming Tuesday
A gradual warming trend will begin Tuesday as the large area of high pressure continues to dominate the weather pattern.
Tuesday will be sunny, with a high near 74 degrees. Winds will be light, and skies will remain clear Tuesday night as temperatures drop to around 45 degrees.
Wednesday will bring another sunny day, with temperatures climbing to approximately 76 degrees. Wednesday night will be clear, with a low near 46.
Thursday and Friday will feature nearly identical conditions, with abundant sunshine and afternoon highs around 75 degrees. Overnight temperatures will remain in the middle 40s.
Saturday is also expected to be sunny, with a high near 75 degrees.
Little Chance Of Rain During The Coming Week
One of the most significant features of the upcoming weather pattern will be the continued lack of rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service, a broad area of high pressure extending from the Gulf Coast toward the Great Lakes will help keep storm systems away from Northwest Georgia.
Forecasters expect rain chances to remain near zero across much of the region through the upcoming week.
While the extended period of sunshine will provide favorable conditions for outdoor activities, the lack of rainfall will also allow leaves, grasses and other vegetation to become increasingly dry.
National Weather Service forecasters say fire danger concerns will need to be monitored as the week progresses, particularly if afternoon humidity levels remain low or winds become stronger.
Fire Safety Important During Dry Fall Weather
The combination of falling leaves, dry vegetation and extended periods without rainfall can create favorable conditions for wildfires across Northwest Georgia.
Residents are reminded that fires can spread rapidly under low-humidity conditions, especially when winds increase.
The Georgia Forestry Commission encourages residents to check current burning conditions and applicable restrictions before starting outdoor fires.
Anyone conducting permitted outdoor burning should have water and fire suppression equipment readily available, remain with the fire at all times and ensure it is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
Residents should also exercise caution when disposing of smoking materials or operating equipment that could produce sparks near dry vegetation.
Overall, Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are in for an extended stretch of pleasant fall weather, with cool mornings, comfortable afternoons and plenty of sunshine.
The biggest weather concern will be the increasing dryness of vegetation and the potential for elevated wildfire danger, especially during afternoon hours.
Residents should enjoy the favorable weather while remaining mindful of outdoor fire safety as dry conditions continue across the region.
West Washington Street To Close Monday For Sewer Line Replacement
A section of West Washington Street in Summerville will be closed Monday, October 19, while city crews work to replace a sewer line.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News on Friday that the city will be replacing a sewer line in the area.
According to a notice issued by the City of Summerville, West Washington Street will be closed to through traffic between Sunset Drive and Raymond Street from 8:30 AM until 4 PM Monday.
Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time during the closure.
The city says the work is part of its efforts to maintain municipal utilities. Drivers are urged to use caution around the work area.
Handgun Reported Stolen From Pickup Truck In Summerville
Summerville Police are investigating the reported theft of a handgun from a pickup truck parked at a residence on Kelly Street.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, officers received a complaint on Monday, October 12, around 10:45 AM concerning a firearm that had gone missing from a vehicle at 286 Kelly Street.
The complainant, 36-year-old Larry Van-Thomas Wright, told police that he had parked his 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck at the residence around 10 PM the previous evening. When he returned to the truck the following morning, he discovered that a black Taurus G3 handgun with silver accents was missing from the area between the driver and passenger seats.
Wright told police he suspected a teenage male he knew, saying the individual had previously been around the residence and had been asked to leave because of trouble. He described the individual as having black hair and a small black beard.
According to the report, Wright showed police the holster associated with the missing firearm, which had a Level 1 retention system and an ejector clip.
Police advised Wright to locate the handgun’s serial number and provide it to investigators.
The firearm was entered into the police report as stolen property. No arrest was reported, and the case was documented as theft by taking.
Deadline To Request Absentee Ballots For November Election Approaching
Chattooga County voters planning to cast absentee ballots in the November 3 General Election have until Friday, October 23, to submit their applications.
According to the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office, absentee ballot applications must be received by the county registrar by the October 23 deadline. Applications postmarked by that date but received afterward will not meet the deadline.
Georgia allows any registered voter to request an absentee ballot without providing a reason for voting by mail.
Voters can request an absentee ballot through the Georgia Secretary of State’s online absentee ballot portal or submit a completed application to the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville.
Applicants must provide identifying information, including their Georgia driver’s license or state identification card number, if they have one. Voters without either number must provide an acceptable alternative form of identification.
Election officials encourage residents to request absentee ballots as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for processing, mailing and returning their ballots.
Completed absentee ballots must be received by 7 PM on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3. A postmark alone is not sufficient for most absentee voters. Ballots may be returned by mail or through authorized in-person return options.
Voters who prefer to cast their ballots in person can continue taking advantage of advance voting in Chattooga County through Friday, October 30. Advance voting is being conducted at the Registrar’s Office, with additional Saturday voting scheduled for October 24.
Residents can request an absentee ballot online at securemyabsenteeballot.sos.ga.gov and check their ballot status through Georgia’s My Voter Page at mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Mosteller Creek Bridge Replacement Could Be Years Away
Residents who travel Oak Hill Alpine Road near Lyerly could face several more years of restrictions on the Mosteller Creek Bridge as Chattooga County works toward securing funding for a replacement.
Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen says the Georgia Department of Transportation currently has the bridge scheduled for replacement sometime between 2030 and 2032. However, the county is hoping to move that timeline forward by obtaining funding through a bridge replacement grant program.
Allen says the county is working to have the project moved up in the state’s funding schedule, possibly allowing construction to begin as early as next year or the following year. Without additional funding, the bridge could remain partially restricted for several more years.
The bridge was closed earlier this year after GDOT identified structural problems. The closure created difficulties for residents, farmers and school transportation in the area because the bridge provides an important connection between Lyerly and Menlo.
GDOT subsequently allowed the bridge to reopen under strict restrictions. Traffic is limited to one lane, with stop signs installed at both ends, and vehicles weighing more than 10 tons are prohibited from crossing.
A September 28 letter from GDOT State Bridge Engineer Donn P. Digamon indicated that the bridge’s safe load capacity remains below Georgia’s legal load limits. The state requires warning signs and weight restrictions to remain in place.
The bridge has also been the scene of a recent incident involving damage to a concrete barricade. According to Allen, someone struck a barricade weighing approximately 7,000 pounds, knocking it into Mosteller Creek. County workers used an excavator to retrieve the barricade and reposition it along the roadway.
Allen said the county does not know who struck the barricade, but the incident was reported to law enforcement for monitoring.
The incident highlights concerns about the restrictions that will remain in place until the bridge can be replaced.
For now, motorists traveling Oak Hill Alpine Road should continue observing the posted weight limit, stop signs and single-lane traffic restrictions while the county pursues funding to accelerate the replacement project.
Sequoyah Quilt Show Continues Today At Historic Summerville Depot
The 13th Annual Sequoyah Quilt Show continues today, Sunday, October 18, at the historic Summerville Depot, giving residents and visitors another opportunity to enjoy beautiful handmade quilts, traditional craftsmanship and special demonstrations.
The show opened Saturday and continues today from 11 AM until 3 PM at the depot, located at 119 East Washington Street in downtown Summerville. Admission is free.
Visitors can explore a wide variety of quilts, including modern creations, antique quilts and rare pieces featuring different patterns, colors and designs. Quilts, quilting supplies and related merchandise will also be available for purchase.
One of the highlights of today’s activities will be the traditional Bed Turning demonstrations, scheduled for 12:30 PM and 1:45 PM in the depot’s Freight Room. Sponsored by Southern Bedding, these presentations feature quilts displayed individually while their histories and the stories of the people who made them are shared with the audience.
A limited number of food and craft vendors will also be set up outside the depot.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s passenger train is expected to arrive in Summerville around 1 PM today. Visitors will have an opportunity to watch the antique steam locomotive being turned on Summerville’s historic railroad turntable.
The Sequoyah Quilt Show is part of the city’s Steam Into Summerville Railroad Days celebration, highlighting the community’s railroad heritage and bringing visitors to downtown Summerville.
The show concludes this afternoon at 3 PM. For additional information, contact Summerville Main Street at 706-859-0900, extension 1337.
Georgia Firearms Deer Hunting Season Opened Saturday
Georgia’s firearms deer hunting season opened yesterday, Saturday, October 17, bringing thousands of hunters into the woods across Chattooga County and the rest of the state.
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, the firearms season will continue into January 2027, with the season ending January 10 in most Georgia counties.
State wildlife officials say approximately 200,000 hunters harvested around 250,000 deer during the 2025-2026 firearms season. Regulated hunting helps manage Georgia’s deer population while providing hunters with a source of meat for their families.
Georgia’s statewide deer season limit is 12 deer, including no more than 10 antlerless deer and two antlered deer. At least one of the two antlered deer must have four points measuring at least one inch on one side of its antlers or an outside antler spread of at least 15 inches. Hunters should check county-specific either-sex hunting dates and regulations before heading into the woods.
Hunters are required to have a valid hunting license, big game license and current deer harvest record, unless exempt under state law. All harvested deer must be reported through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours.
The DNR is also encouraging hunters to participate in the expanded Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program, which allows hunters to donate harvested deer to participating processors. The donated venison helps provide meals for Georgia families in need.
Wildlife officials remind hunters to follow firearm safety rules, wear the required fluorescent orange or pink clothing and always identify their target and what lies beyond it before shooting.
Additional hunting regulations, season dates and license information are available at GeorgiaWildlife.com.
GBI Investigating Death Of Inmate At Gordon County Jail
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating the death of an inmate at the Gordon County Jail after the man was found unresponsive in his cell early Thursday morning, October 15.
According to Gordon County Sheriff Mitch Ralston, jail personnel discovered the inmate unresponsive and immediately summoned emergency medical services. Medical personnel responded quickly to the jail, but the inmate did not survive.
Following the death, the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office requested an independent investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which is standard procedure when an inmate dies while in custody.
GBI agents responded to the jail Thursday morning, along with Gordon County Sheriff’s Office detectives and the Gordon County Coroner, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.
Authorities have not released the inmate’s identity, age or information about why he was being held at the jail. The cause of death has also not been disclosed.
The Sheriff’s Office says the GBI investigation remains active and ongoing, with additional information expected to be released as it becomes available.
Judge Hise Reports Hundreds Of Felony Cases Handled In Chattooga County Superior Court
Chattooga County Superior Court has handled 379 felony cases during four weeks of criminal court proceedings, according to an update released by Superior Court Judge Melissa Gifford-Hise. The report also outlines improvements to courthouse security and repairs to several areas of the Chattooga County Courthouse.
According to the report, the criminal court proceedings included 14 trials, 175 guilty pleas and 56 dismissals. Another 72 cases were continued until the next court term.
Additionally, 32 cases were listed in bench warrant status after defendants failed to appear in court, while 19 were placed on the dead docket because defendants had failed to appear for more than two court terms. Other cases involved pretrial diversion, transfers to State Court and a bench trial.
Judge Hise also reported that 47 of the felony cases involved defendants already serving sentences in Georgia prisons. The District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office and Judge Hise have worked together to resolve those cases without requiring the defendants to be transported back to Chattooga County for trial. Fifteen of those cases have been disposed of so far this year.
Chattooga County is part of the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit, which includes Chattooga, Walker, Dade and Catoosa counties. The circuit operates on two six-month court terms each year, beginning in February and August. The current term will conclude in February 2027.
On the civil side, Chattooga County Superior Court began 2026 with 31 cases on its trial docket. Two cases went to trial, 13 were dismissed and three were settled before trial. Another 12 were continued because of pending motions, mediation or the need for additional evidence gathering. One case was removed from the trial calendar for resolution without a jury.
A new civil case management system also took effect January 1, assigning judges to civil matters to improve case preparation and processing.
The report also highlighted improvements at the Chattooga County Courthouse in Summerville. State funding through the Seventh Judicial Administrative District provided new metal detectors for both the main courthouse and courthouse annex. New chairs were also purchased for attorneys in the main courtroom, along with a table and chairs for a first-floor conference area.
County workers have also completed repairs to the former probation office, where leaking windows had caused plaster damage and mold and mildew problems. Two second-floor bathrooms serving jury rooms have reopened following repairs to leaks around toilets and windows.
According to the report, county employees completed the courthouse repairs at minimal cost.
Arrest Report - Saturday - October 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, October 17, 2026:
Cooler Temperatures And Gusty Winds Arrive In Chattooga County This Weekend
A strong cold front has brought a significant change in the weather to Chattooga County, with much cooler temperatures, gusty winds and dry conditions expected throughout the weekend.
Saturday will be sunny but noticeably cooler, with a high near 62 degrees. North winds of 10 to 15 mph could gust as high as 30 mph. A Wind Advisory remains in effect through noon Saturday for portions of north and northeast Georgia, where gusts could reach 35 to 40 mph.
The National Weather Service is urging residents to use caution around weakened trees and loose limbs, particularly in areas that experienced damage from Hurricane Isaias last weekend. Gusty winds could bring down branches or trees that were weakened during the storm. Residents should also secure loose outdoor furniture and decorations.
Saturday night will be clear and chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 42 degrees. North winds could continue gusting as high as 25 mph during the evening.
Sunday will bring plenty of sunshine and a high near 67 degrees, followed by another cold night with temperatures falling to around 40 degrees. Some mountain locations in northeast Georgia could experience their first frost of the season.
Looking ahead, dry weather is expected to continue throughout next week, with temperatures gradually warming. Monday will be sunny with a high near 69, followed by 72 on Tuesday, 76 on Wednesday, 77 on Thursday and 79 by Friday.
The National Weather Service says rain chances will remain near zero over the next seven days, providing an extended stretch of sunny skies and pleasant fall weather across Northwest Georgia.
Chattooga And Trion Fall In Friday Night Football Action
Both Chattooga County high school football teams suffered losses Friday night, October 16, as the Chattooga Indians fell to the Dade County Wolverines at home and the Trion Bulldogs saw their five-game winning streak come to an end on the road against Bowdon.
The Chattooga Indians returned to the Little Big Horn in Summerville Friday night following an open week, but the Dade County Wolverines came away with a commanding 54-14 victory.
Chattooga entered Friday night’s contest hoping to build on its 38-22 Homecoming victory over Gordon Central on October 2, which gave the Indians their first win of the season.
The loss drops Chattooga to 1-6 overall and 1-2 in Region 7-AA competition.
Meanwhile, the Trion Bulldogs traveled to Bowdon Friday night riding a five-game winning streak, but the Bowdon Red Devils brought that streak to an end with a 34-7 victory.
Trion entered the matchup following an impressive 50-0 shutout of Greenville last week in its region opener. Friday night’s loss drops the Bulldogs to 6-2 overall and 1-1 in Region 7-A competition.
Both Chattooga and Trion will look to regroup as the regular season continues, with teams competing for postseason positioning.
Next Friday, October 23, Chattooga travels to Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe, while Trion returns home to face Manchester.
Major Donation Helps CRC Chattooga Reach $262,000 Roof Replacement Goal
A major donation from a local foundation has helped CRC Chattooga reach its fundraising goal for a much-needed roof replacement, marking an important milestone for the community organization.
The Frank P. Pierce Foundation recently presented CRC Chattooga with a $130,000 check, providing the final funding needed for the organization’s roof replacement project.
The donation brings CRC Chattooga’s fundraising total to approximately $262,000, allowing the organization to move forward with replacing the roof on its facility.
The donation was made through the Atrium Health Floyd Giving July’s Dancing With Our Stars event, which helped generate support for the project.
CRC Chattooga provides a gathering place for community members, including senior citizens, offering opportunities for fellowship, activities and social interaction.
Organization representatives say the roof replacement is an important investment in the building’s future, ensuring the facility can continue serving residents for years to come.
The organization expressed appreciation to the Frank P. Pierce Foundation and Atrium Health Floyd for their support, along with community members who contributed to the fundraising effort.
CRC Chattooga said the generosity of its supporters will have an impact far beyond the building itself, helping the organization continue providing a welcoming environment for neighbors throughout the community.
The organization also thanked the individuals, churches, businesses and friends who have contributed to the effort.
Summerville Police Respond To Complaint About Loose Dogs On Woods Street
Summerville Police responded to a complaint involving several loose dogs in a residential neighborhood after a woman reported that the animals had been running loose and chasing people.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, police were dispatched to 123 Woods Street on Friday, October 9, at approximately 10:37 PM, after receiving a complaint about Great Danes running loose in the neighborhood.
The complainant, identified as 54-year-old Carla Kelly, told police that the dogs had been scaring residents and chasing people. She said the dogs belonged to a neighbor at 127 Woods Street.
Kelly told police that her son had been forced to take cover inside a vehicle when the dogs came outside and began approaching him.
She also reported that the neighbor had constructed a fence around the property, but the dogs were still able to escape. According to Kelly, the fence was approximately four feet tall, and the Great Danes were tall enough to jump over it.
Police observed the fence and noted that it appeared to be approximately the same height as the dogs.
The officer was unable to speak with the dogs’ owner because she was reportedly out of town and was not expected to return until Monday evening.
Police documented the complaint in an incident report. No citations or arrests were reported in connection with the incident.
Chattooga County Accepting Applications For Two Job Openings
Chattooga County is currently accepting applications for two employment opportunities, including positions with the county’s Water Department and Sanitation Department.
The openings include a Water Maintenance Technician and a Sanitation CDL Driver, with pay for both positions based on experience and qualifications.
Water Maintenance Technician
The Chattooga County Water Department is seeking a maintenance technician to assist with the operation, repair and upkeep of the county’s water system.
Responsibilities include operating equipment and machinery used in water system construction and maintenance, transporting materials, performing repairs, reading and assisting with water meters, and responding to customer service needs.
The position also involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and assisting with emergency repairs when necessary.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license and at least six months of experience in equipment operation, construction, maintenance or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education, training and experience may also be considered.
A Class A commercial driver’s license and a Class 3 Water Operator License are preferred qualifications.
Applications are available at the Chattooga County Water Department, 1685 Old Highway 27 in Trion, or at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville.
Sanitation CDL Driver
Chattooga County is also accepting applications for a CDL driver with the county’s Sanitation Department.
The position involves operating county sanitation trucks and equipment to collect, transport and dispose of solid waste.
Duties include driving assigned routes, loading and unloading garbage, inspecting vehicles and equipment, and maintaining safe operating conditions.
Applicants must have a valid Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license, a valid medical card and a safe driving record. They must also meet applicable federal CDL requirements.
A high school diploma or GED is preferred, along with previous experience operating commercial trucks or sanitation equipment.
Experience in solid waste collection, construction, maintenance or related work is also preferred.
Applications for the sanitation position may be picked up at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville, or at the Chattooga County Sanitation Department or Public Works Office.
Both positions offer employment opportunities for individuals interested in working in essential county services.
Free Food Giveaway Scheduled For Monday In Summerville
A community food distribution event will take place Monday, October 19, in Summerville, giving eligible residents an opportunity to receive free groceries.
The event is being hosted by the Chattooga Area Food Bank and will take place from 3 PM until 5 PM at the Summerville Parks and Recreation Department, located at 220 Highway 100 in Summerville.
Eligible residents will receive a variety of grocery items, including pantry staples, fresh produce, frozen foods and other items as supplies allow.
The distribution will be conducted drive-thru style, with volunteers loading groceries directly into recipients’ vehicles. No reservations or deliveries will be available.
Organizers say the event will end once all available food has been distributed. Residents are encouraged to arrive early, as supplies are limited.
The food giveaway is part of ongoing efforts by the Chattooga Area Food Bank to assist local families and individuals facing food insecurity.
SpaceX Astronaut And Former Air Force Thunderbird To Speak At Berry College
A former U.S. Air Force Thunderbird pilot who went on to become a SpaceX astronaut will share his experiences during a special lecture at Berry College in Rome later this month.
Scott “Kidd” Poteet, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, will speak Thursday, October 29, at 6 PM in the Krannert Ballroom as part of the college’s Cecil B. Wright III Integrity in Leadership Lecture Series. The event is free and open to the public.
Poteet served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, including service as a pilot with the elite Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team. During his military career, he commanded numerous missions around the world.
Following his military service, Poteet fulfilled a childhood dream of traveling into space. He was a member of the historic five-day Polaris Dawn mission aboard a SpaceX spacecraft launched by a Falcon 9 rocket.
In addition to his military and spaceflight accomplishments, Poteet is an accomplished endurance athlete who has competed in 16 Ironman triathlons, including the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii.
During his presentation at Berry College, Poteet will discuss leadership, humility, finding personal purpose and overcoming challenges. He is expected to share how he overcame obstacles, including motion sickness and a fear of heights, while pursuing his goals.
The annual Cecil B. Wright III Integrity in Leadership Lecture Series brings distinguished leaders to Berry College to share their experiences with students, faculty and members of the community. The series honors Wright’s legacy and his commitment to ethical leadership.
The October 29 lecture begins at 6 PM and is open to anyone interested in attending.
Additional information is available at www.berry.edu/bcil/lecture.
Saturday Early Voting Underway Today In Chattooga County
Chattooga County voters have an opportunity to cast their ballots today, Saturday, October 17, as the first weekend of early voting gets underway ahead of the November 3 General Election.
The Chattooga County Registrar’s Office will be open today from 9 AM until 5 PM for voters wishing to cast their ballots early.
All advance voting in Chattooga County takes place at the Registrar’s Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville.
Early voting began Tuesday and continues through Friday, October 30. Another Saturday voting opportunity will be available October 24, also from 9 AM until 5 PM.
Regular weekday voting hours are 8:30 AM until 5 PM through October 23. During the final week of early voting, October 26 through October 30, hours will be extended until 6 PM. There will be no Sunday voting in Chattooga County.
In addition to choosing candidates for federal, state and local offices, Chattooga County voters will decide several ballot questions, including renewal of the county’s education sales tax, proposed changes to homestead exemptions and a bond referendum for voters living in the Town of Trion.
Voters must bring an acceptable form of photo identification, such as a Georgia driver’s license or state-issued identification card.
The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Friday, October 23. The General Election takes place Tuesday, November 3.